It’s a short formal dress – usually falls just below the knee (though younger people sometimes go shorter). It doesn’t have to be too fancy; it’s sort of half way between casual and formal.

How did your cruise go? I love cruises.

I’ve always thought a cocktail dress is short (e.g. knee length) and a formal dress is floor length.

Ebay has a nice variety of cocktail dresses!
A cocktail dress is an elegant dress shorter than a formal dress.
I think any knee length dress could pass as a cocktail dress, perhaps a little bit shorter if you wanted.
I hope you have/had an absolute blast on your cruise, sounds like a lot of fun!

I think some of us over dress & then feel out of place. These days if it’s not black tie or formal then it’s neat casual!

whatever, just something elegant enough to mingle in

You can google images of cocktail dresses for ideas. Black dress near knee height should be fine

Thanks for the help ladies, I think I am just going to find something I like and feel elegant in and not worry so much about what people think.

I agree with what the previous ladies said but make sure you feel comfortable and happy! That radiates confidence and you will enjoy your night much more! Enjoy the cruise!

I would wear a classy dress that was just above the knees but not too formal looking. You want to have a bit of fun with the dress. Don’t go too short though.

I used to work retail, and the basic rule for cocktail was that it has to be fancy, not formal. Generally speaking, it is a dress between knee and tea length, not too short, but not a full on ball gown. It’s more about classiness than about the item itself though, so if you are more comfortable in long dresses, team it with neutral make up and flat shoes, or dress pants and a nice top. Hope this helps