dress code for kids

We're cruising the Norwegian Sun to Alaska on Sun the 10th of Aug with our 9-yr old daughter, and our 5-yr old son. Does the policy of "no jeans, T-shirts, shorts, etc" in restaurants apply to the kids as well? Its summer, and my son has outgrown all his trousers and all he has that fit him are shorts! We sail in 2 days and I'm panicking!!

Also, what kind of weather should we pack clothes for? I know the ports might have unpredictable weather, but how about on board the ship this time of year? Will shorts and tees leave us shivering?!!!

Thanks,
Viju

[Donna]

Hi Vuji,
Yes, the dress codes do apply for kids, basically in the dining room for dinner, thats fine for breakfast and lunch. Packing for Alaska is tricky, but pack plenty of clothes that you can layer and peel off as needed during the day. I did pack one pair of shorts and did wear them, but I wouldn't count on that. Also rain gear will most likely be needed, you can expect to run into that at some point.

You can find a lot of good tips reading through this Alska guide for 2003:

http://www.cruisemates.com/articles/...index_orig.cfm

[LisaK]

you will need to run to the store and pick up your son a few pairs of cargo pants or dockers type twill pants, dress shoes, a nice dress shirt & tie for formal nights and polos or jerseys for dinner.

Yes, you will need pants for your son, not only for dinner dress codes but because he'll potentially be too cold in AK in shorts. While he may get a chance to wear shorts, I wouldn't bank on it.
Make sure you read the recent article I wrote on this section about Alaska for Kids -- suggestions on what to do in ports with kids.
Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor
Family Cruise Editor

Thanks to all of you for your replies. I did go and replenish everyone's wardrobes with pants. Luisa, I have saved your article and will read it soon.

Thanks again,

Viju

I always buy new suits for the boys when we cruise. It's hell getting it done but they look great.