Seven in 10 cruise passengers would like to see a return to formal evenings on board, according to a poll of 1,500 travellers by Cruise.co.uk.
Most said this was because they would like to see other guests dressed up and looking smart to suit the occasion.
Two-thirds of those questioned said they were offended by passengers who are rude to cruise staff.
And 45% complained about noisy passengers ruining the relaxing cruise for everybody else.
Four in ten admitted they lose patience with families who have young children on board, while almost half said they get most annoyed by those who hog the sun loungers.
Others complain about mobile phones being used during dinner, and passengers eating and drinking too much on all-inclusive cruises.
Sukie Rapal, marketing director of Cruise.co.uk, told the Daily Mail: “Cruising is still a highly expensive type of holiday, and this is part of what drives the urge for a return to formal standards, particularly in people of a certain age who are looking for a special occasion to dress up for.
“If you want a really formal black tie dining experience versus a more casual affair, then it is important to make sure you pick the right ship.
“The difficulty is that some ships blur the lines between both standards, with a mix of people walking around in black tie and others in shorts and T-shirts, which can look strange.
“On this type of cruise, the main thing is that people respect the standards of evening dress, and don’t turn up in scruffy attire, as this can ruin the experience for everyone else.”