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When it comes to the best shoes for cruise vacations that are based in sunny locales like the Caribbean and what to take, it’s hard to know how many and the right kind. But here’s where our readers come in with their tried and tested recommendations!
Written By: Michelle Nati
Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:
“What would be your bare minimum of shoes on a 7-day Caribbean cruise?”
You’re about to set sail for the turquoise waters of the Carribean and figuring out what shoes to pack for a cruise can be tough, especially if you’ve never vacationed this way before. It’s a unique situation in that you’ll be in a variety of situations and sometimes face changing weather conditions all on one journey.
Luckily, our readers are here to give you some guidance and share their experience on what to bring and how to pack your cruise ship shoes!
Best Shoes for Cruise Excursions
Shop: Taos
Taos Star Sneaker
The Taos Sneaker is the #1 bestselling sneaker on the blog, and readers have shared that they’re some of the best shoes for a cruise, too! With a cute and classic look, a comfy fit, and a wide variety of colors to choose from, it’s no wonder! They’re supportive enough for all-day wear, with a dreamy footbed and ample arch support.
Readers say they’re perfect if you like a wider-sized shoe and are going to be walking long distances. One reader says, “Taos are awesome. They’re comfy and have great support. My feet were never tired after a day in them.”
The Taos Plim Soul Lux sneakers are a chic leather alternative, with arch and metatarsal support. They’re a tad sturdier, too, and have a thicker platform. And, they’re easier to clean!
You only need three pairs of shoes for any trip. Find out how with Pack Light Stylishly!
Shop: Amazon |Walmart | Zappos
Skechers Go Walk Sneakers
Another best-selling sneaker on the blog, these Skechers Go Walk sporty womens shoes are consistently voted some of the best travel shoes by readers! They’re lightweight, supportive, breathable, and easy to pack. Their sleek and simple look means you can pair them with your casual day outfit, or rock them with a dress!
One user shares, “I wore these on a cruise and many shore excursions. This was the best shoe ever for comfort and all day wear. They held up very well so they are my new major kicks. They’re also easy to put on and take off!”
If you want MORE of this brand, check out our post on the best Skechers for all occasions—from boots, sneakers, to sandals!
Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles
The stylish Allbirds Wool Mizzles are so easy to pair with your Caribbean cruise outfits! They’re made of quality merino wool, which is not only cozy but wicks away moisture to keep feet dry and comfortable.
And best of all, they’re waterproof! So if they get a little wet during your adventures, no biggie!
A reader shares, “I can dress them up or down. But the best part is how incredibly comfortable they are, and water-resistant to boot. I will never wear anything else to travel!”
Here are the most comfortable ballet flats that are cute enough to take anywhere!
Shop: Zappos
Sanuk Pair O Dice Loafers
The Sanuk beachy brand is super popular with readers, and their Pair O Dice slip on is great for cruises! They’re made of comfy canvas and have a yoga mat insole that users rave about! They’re easy to slip on and off, too.
They have a clean, simple design and look amazing with linen pants! A traveler reports, “These are my favorite shoes!! They’re my go-to shoe when traveling. They’re so comfortable and they clean up well!”
Take a look at this post for more slip-on sneaker options!
Best Water Shoes for a Cruise
Reef Water Vista Sandals
These Reef platform sandals have a cute, espadrille-inspired look, but are totally adventure-ready! They’re waterproof, and the outsole can withstand uneven terrain and has excellent traction. The ankle strap is adjustable, and users say they’re SO comfy!
A fan of these says, “No sandal is more comfortable! I can walk in them all day long! They’re good for the feet, and they’re so easy to keep clean. Love them!!!”
Shop: Amazon | Dick’s Sporting Goods
KEEN Elle Backstrap Sandal
Caribbean cruises sometimes involve some vigorous shore excursions, so if you need a functional and supportive shoe that’s still stylish, look no further than these KEEN Elle sandals! The cushioned insole with arch support will keep your feet happy, and the wide straps are snug, supportive, and comfy.
This pattern is so fun, and there are plenty of other colors to pick from, too! A reader raves, “Comfy and supportive. I’ve walked miles in them and gotten so many compliments!!”
Here’s our list of the best water shoes for travel!
Shop: Amazon
Chaco ZX3 Classic Sport Sandals
Cute, right? Chacos are crazy stylish and ideal shoes for water slides or private islands you may encounter. And for those times you need to step it up, they are dressier than a pair of flip flops.
One reader says, “I wore my Chacos on all of our excursions. I originally bought them for amusem*nt and water parks and they still look brand new several years later.”
Want more choices? Check out the most comfortable walking sandals!
Sea Star Beachcomber Espadrilles
If you want to switch things up from sandals, these Beachcomber espadrilles are perfect for hot, sunny days by the water. They aren’t full-on walking shoes, as they don’t have a ton of support, but users say they’re comfy and cute for lounging poolside or heading to the beach!
The jute sole looks real but is actually rubber, so they’re water-friendly, too! A traveler says, “I absolutely adore them!! So cute, super functional—they held up climbing all over rocks at the beach.”
Teva Tirra
Sleek enough for dresses, pants and everything in between, these Teva sandals are super comfy, waterproof, and able to adjust to a wider position if you need it.
One reader says she brings them because they work perfectly “in the water and land,” and look pretty while doing it!
Looking for the best outdoor sandals? Check out this post!
Best Dress Shoes for a Cruise
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Zappos
Naot Sabrina Sandals
These high-quality leather shoes by Naot cover all the bases when it comes to a classy, yet comfy shoe for dinner or dancing. No tripping or slipping in these beauties—they offer fantastic support and you can choose a color or print that suits your style.
One seafaring reader says, “I swear by these sandals. You can walk for miles in them and they look terrific with anything!”
Here’s the list of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis according to our readers!
Shop: Amazon
Ecco Flowt Walking Strap Sandals
The Ecco Flowt is a major TFG favorite, as it’s truly one of the MOST comfortable walking sandals for travel! The cushy, microfiber footbed, arch support, and adjustable straps will have you covered all day long, and they’ll add a chic element for nights dining onboard when paired with a lightweight summer dress!
A TFGer says, “Wore them for miles and miles while on vacation. The adjustable straps combined with being very light made them a big success for me!”
Here are even more of our readers favorite Ecco styles including their recommendations for sandals, sneakers, and flats.
Taos Trulie Cushioned Sandals
The Taos Trulies have a cute, strappy look that’ll go with any outfit and come with a padded cork footbed that’s incredibly comfy. With arch support, shock absorption, and a slight wedge, these are a stylish pair that you can dress up for dinner and take on a long walk the next day!
TFGs adore this pair for their tropical travels! A reader says, “I have them in three colors. They are the most comfortable sandals I’ve ever owned. They’ve totally saved my feet for days on end.”
We list the best beach sandals for your next vacation!
Shop: Amazon
Sofft Mirabelle Strappy Sandals
For days on deck or wandering into town to get lunch, the Sofft Mirabelle sandals are a lovely, lightweight pair that offers comfort and style! They feature a cushioned footbed with moderate arch support, and the gladiator-style straps will keep your feet super stable.
The Mirabelles are constantly recommended by readers! One reader shares, “Not only are they comfortable, but I’m receiving so many compliments when I wear them. I’m super happy I purchased them!”
Here is our favorite Birkenstocks sandals or similar styles!
Best Flip Flops or Slides for a Cruise
Shop: Amazon | Dillard’s | Reef
Reef Cushion Breeze Thong Sandals
When you’re at the beach, flip flops are simply a must! You can wear these Reef Cushion Breeze sandals with absolutely any outfit, and they’ll add an effortlessly cool and summery look.
The footbeds are a total dream, with amazing cushioning, support, and flexibility. They’re durable and water-friendly, too! A fan says, “They’re adorable! I’ve gotten compliments on them and they’re comfy too! They tie outfits together very well and I can walk in them for hours and my feet don’t hurt!”
Take a look at themost comfortable flip flops!
Shop: Amazon
OluKai Ohana Flip Flops
Shiny and sleek, these Olukai Ohana leather flip flops offer an anatomical footbed and a soft toe post for lasting comfort. They’re not fully waterproof but are still great for the beach, and their Wet Grip rubber sole prevents slips!
Wearers say they fit great and look beautiful! A user says, “I have been looking for sandals that have good arch support, are durable for travel and outdoor activities, but still fashionable! These sandals meet all requirements! LOVE these.”
Read a full review on the best womens flip flops readers swear by!
Reef Vista Slides
For those relaxing days spent lounging by the water, these fab Reef Vista slides will keep you comfy. They’re made of vegan leather and feature arch support, a cushioned footbed, and great traction! The polished, leather look allows you to dress them up for dinner, too!
A user raves, “Most comfortable and versatile shoes for travel. I wore the heck out of these on a recent trip, and they survived the hot sun, many beach days, and lots of daily walking. They’re so cute, and the cushioned bottom helped save my feet.”
These are the best and cutestwalking shoes for travel!
Shop: Amazon
Skechers Go Walk Fiji Flip Flops
The Skechers Go Walk Fijis will feel heavenly as you traipse around the cruise deck or hit the town for a fun excursion. They have comfy arch support and the criss-cross straps not only add a fun, stylish touch, but will keep your feet snug and secure, too.
A user reports, “Very soft and comfortable sandals. I recently purchased them for a cruise and ended up wearing them for pretty much the whole trip. We did quite a bit of walking, and they were comfortable for the whole trip, so much so that I hated to take them off for the trip back home!”
Find out the best slide sandalsto complement your travel wardrobe!
Product Comparison Chart
| BRAND | MODEL | FEATURES | REVIEWS | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Best Shoes for Cruise Excursions | ||
| Taos Star Sneaker | “Taos are awesome. They’re comfy and have great support. My feet were never tired after a day in them.” | Check Price |
| Skechers Go Walk Sneakers | “They held up very well so they are my new major kicks. They’re also easy to put on and take off!” | Check Price |
| Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles | “I can dress them up or down. But the best part is how incredibly comfortable they are, and water-resistant to boot. I will never wear anything else to travel!” | Check Price |
| Sanuk Pair O Dice Loafers | “These are my favorite shoes!! They’re my go-to shoe when traveling. They’re so comfortable and they clean up well!” | Check Price |
| Best Water Shoes for a Cruise | ||
 Reef Water Vista Sandals | “No sandal is more comfortable! I can walk in them all day long! They're good for the feet, and they're so easy to keep clean. Love them!!!” | Check Price |
| KEEN Elle Backstrap Sandal | “Comfy and supportive. I’ve walked miles in them and gotten so many compliments!!” | Check Price |
 Chaco ZX3 Classic | “I wore my Chacos on all of our excursions. I originally bought them for amusem*nt and water parks and they still look brand new several years later.” | Check Price |
| Sea Star Beachcomber Espadrilles | “I absolutely adore them!! So cute, super functional—they held up climbing all over rocks at the beach.” | Check Price |
| Teva Tirra | They work perfectly “in the water and land,” and look pretty while doing it! | Check Price |
| Best Dress Shoes for a Cruise | ||
| Naot Sabrina Sandals | “I swear by these sandals. You can walk for miles in them and they look terrific with anything!” | Check Price |
| Ecco Flowt Walking Strap Sandals | “Wore them for miles and miles while on vacation. The adjustable straps combined with being very light made them a big success for me!” | Check Price |
| Taos Trulie Cushioned Sandals | “I have them in three colors. They are the most comfortable sandals I've ever owned. They've totally saved my feet for days on end.” | Check Price |
| Sofft Mirabelle Strappy Sandals | “Not only are they comfortable, but I’m receiving so many compliments when I wear them. I’m super happy I purchased them!” | Check Price |
| Best Flip Flops or Slides for a Cruise | ||
| Reef Cushion Breeze Thong Sandals | “They’re adorable! I’ve gotten compliments on them and they’re comfy too!” | Check Price |
| OluKai Ohana Flip Flops | “I have been looking for sandals that have good arch support, are durable for travel and outdoor activities, but still fashionable!” | Check Price |
| Reef Vista Slides | “They’re so cute, and the cushioned bottom helped save my feet.” | Check Price |
| Skechers Go Walk Fiji Flip Flops | “We did quite a bit of walking, and they were comfortable for the whole trip, so much so that I hated to take them off for the trip back home!” | Check Price |
How Many Shoes Should I Bring on a Cruise?
The minimum shoes to pack for a cruise are two pairs. Aim for a comfortable walking shoe or sandal and a dressier shoe such as a ballet flat or low heeled wedges to wear for dinner.
However, the majority of our readers agree that three is the magic number of shoes to bring for a cruise. It’s best to travel with one pair of sneakers/athletic shoes, a pair of sandals, or other flats (that can you dress up when need be), and a pair of flip flops or water shoes. Wear the heaviest shoes while traveling to make your luggage less of a burden.
Of course, if you can’t live without a pair of heels, an example of one reader’s packing list includes one pair of heels, flip flops, and KEEN Newport water sandals for hiking and walking to replace the need for sneakers.
One big no-no? Readers caution to stay away from heavy boots—unless you are doing some major hiking or climbing—leave those at home!
Make sure that whatever you choose for your cruise vacation will fit the diverse destinations, activities, and weather you may encounter.
What If I Need More Than Three Pairs of Shoes for a Cruise?
Some readers like to go big and travel with four or more pairs. That said, if you’re willing to carry this many shoes, make sure they’re the right ones.
An example of a suggested combination could be:
- Tennis shoes for travel and exercise or zip-line on the ship
- Flip flops for the beach and pool
- Comfortable sandals for sightseeing
- Cute wedges or flats to dance in
How Many Heels Should I Bring for Evenings and Formal Wear?
Many readers don’t recommend “heels” per se, but dressy wedge heels are a perfect alternative, comfy, and equally stylish. Keep the style simple, black, white, or tan goes with pretty much every nighttime look. One reader recommends you should absolutely not go without because “no one wants to wear flip flops on a formal night.” To that, we agree!
How to Pack Your Cruise Shoes
Though shoes for a cruise will be more compact than boots, they still need to be adequately packed, especially if you’re trying to pack light and avoid a shoe poking through a bag. To make it easier, start by choosing a container such as a shoe bag or a packing cube, then pack according to your type of luggage.
Whether you have a front loading or top loading backpack, it’s crucial to put your shoes first, at the bottom. If you’re planning to pack shoes in a rolling carry-on, remember that it stands sideways, so it’s important to note how it functions when it is upright. Most often, your shoes will need to be packed close to the wheels, so that the luggage maintains its balance in transit.
To store, use washable shoe bags or plastic shower caps to keep your belongings separate from your shoes. Besides these tips, check out more information on packing cubes in the tutorial video below.
Watch this video to start learning how to organize with packing cubes!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
What do you think are the best shoes for cruise vacations in the Caribbean? Share and comment below!
For more cruise travel tips, please read:
- What to Wear on a Cruise to the South Pacific
- What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
- What to Pack for a Sailing Trip in the British Virgin Islands
- Caribbean Cruisewear Essentials
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