21 Stunning Summer Cruise Nail Designs 2024: Oceanic & Tropical Manicures

Are you ready to set sail with the chicest nails on the ocean? Whether you’re lounging by the pool deck or dressing up for a captain’s dinner, the right nail design can elevate your cruise attire from fun to fabulous. What makes the perfect summer cruise manicure? How can you achieve these trendy looks yourself? Stay tuned as we unveil the hottest summer cruise nail designs of 2024, complete with DIY tips to keep you stylish at sea!

Oceanic Elegance

Dive deep into the essence of the ocean with these stunning gradient nails that seem to capture the very soul of a sunset over the sea. The top nail displays a blend of fiery orange and gentle pink, transitioning smoothly to create a visual that mimics the serene moments of twilight. Notice the artful addition of simple starfish designs, a whimsical touch that beckons to the playful side of any sea adventurer.

Photo credit by: @tiffanybeautyandhair

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Use a durable base like Essie’s Here to Stay.
• Polishes:
  • Orange: OPI’s “Tasmanian Devil Made Me Do It”
  • Pink: Sally Hansen’s “Pink Blink”
• Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a glossy finish.
• Decorations: Small decals or stickers resembling starfish.

DIY Instructions

Start with a clean, dry nail, applying a base coat to protect your nail. Once dry, sponge on the orange and pink polishes to create a gradient effect. Apply the starfish decals while the polish is tacky. Seal everything with a fast-drying top coat for a long-lasting finish.

Tropical Sunset

Embrace the warmth of tropical sunsets with this unique manicure that features a translucent jelly finish, giving the nails a glass-like appearance. The use of warm, sunset hues creates a soft yet vibrant look, complemented by golden accents that catch the light beautifully.

Photo credit by: @setsbysenia

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Red Jelly: Dior Vernis in “Cruise”
  • Glitter Accents: Ciaté’s “Antique Brooch”
• Top Coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat.
• Accessories: Gold micro-beads for added bling.

DIY Instructions

Begin with the base coat to ensure your natural nails are protected. Apply two layers of the red jelly polish, letting each coat dry thoroughly. Add gold micro-beads on the tips or as desired while the second coat is still slightly wet. Finish with a thick top coat to encapsulate the beads and enhance the glassy finish.

Butterfly Whimsy

Set your sights on this playfully elegant design featuring pastel butterflies that seem to flutter across each nail. This design uses a clever combination of soft blue and pink backgrounds, overlaid with vibrant butterfly decals that provide a beautiful contrast and draw the eye.

Photo credit by: @alexiaxnails

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro.
• Polishes:
  • Blue: China Glaze’s “Rain Dance The Night Away”
  • Pink: Essie’s “Muchi, Muchi”
• Top Coat: Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat.
• Decals: Butterfly nail stickers from Nails Inc.

DIY Instructions

After applying your base coat, paint your nails alternatively with blue and pink polishes. Allow the colors to dry completely before applying butterfly decals. Position them creatively across different fingers for a dynamic look. Finish with a top coat to seal the decals and add a high-gloss finish.

Seashell Serenity

The serene simplicity of these nails brings a touch of class to any summer cruise wardrobe. The white-on-nude seashell stripes are subtle yet sophisticated, perfect for a tranquil day at sea or an elegant evening event. The fine lines and minimalistic design reflect the peacefulness of oceanic landscapes.

Photo credit by: @veedidem

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Butter London Nail Foundation.
• Polishes:
  • Nude: Zoya’s “Chantal”
  • White Stripe: Essie’s “Blanc”
• Top Coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat.
• Tool: Thin brush for precise stripe application.

DIY Instructions

Apply the base coat to prepare your nails for a smooth polish application. Once dry, apply two coats of the nude polish. Using a thin brush, paint delicate white lines to mimic seashell patterns. Finish with a clear top coat to enhance the design’s longevity and shine.

Tropical Bloom

These vibrant nails are a celebration of color and creativity, perfect for making a statement on your summer cruise. The yellow and pink gradient serves as a sunny backdrop for intricate white flower designs, making each nail a miniature canvas of floral artistry.

Photo credit by: @ashleyjeannails

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Chanel Le Base.
• Polishes:
  • Yellow: OPI’s “Exotic Birds Do Not Tweet”
  • Pink: Orly’s “Kiss Me, I’m Kind”
  • White for Design: Sally Hansen’s “White On”
• Top Coat: Orly Glosser Super High Shine Top Coat.
• Tools: Dotting tool for flowers, thin brush for detail.

DIY Instructions

Begin with a base coat to protect your nails. Apply the yellow polish at the base of your nails, blending into pink towards the tips to create a smooth gradient. Use a thin brush dipped in white polish to draw delicate flowers. Dot the centers with the same white polish. Seal with a high-shine top coat for a radiant finish.

Oceanic Dreams

Dive into the depths of the ocean with these mesmerizing blue nails. The shimmering blue polish paired with white and silver floral designs captures the essence of underwater flora. This look not only sparkles under the sunlight but also complements the ocean’s hues, perfect for any sea-bound traveler.

Photo credit by: @reahs.beauty

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Revlon Quick Dry Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Blue Shimmer: Essie’s “Strut Your Stuff”
  • Silver for Accents: Sinful Colors “Steel Reserve”
• Top Coat: A-England The Shield Top Coat.
• Decorations: Small white and silver decals for a floral motif.

DIY Instructions

Start by applying the base coat for a flawless polish foundation. Coat your nails with the blue shimmer polish, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly. Apply the silver and white decals in a floral pattern. Finish with a top coat to add a glossy sheen and ensure the longevity of your manicure.

Nautical Majesty

This bold look features deep navy blue polished nails, bordered by a striking red and golden glitter line, adding a regal touch that’s fit for maritime royalty. The small white dots act like distant stars, providing a celestial allure to the overall design.

Photo credit by: @paintme.pretty

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: OPI’s Strong Foundation Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Navy Blue: Essie’s “After School Boy Blazer”
  • Red: Revlon’s “Revlon Red”
  • Gold Glitter: OPI’s “Goldeneye”
• Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a perfect seal.
• Tool: Dotting tool for precise dot application.

DIY Instructions

Start with a base coat to protect your nails. Apply the navy blue as the base layer. Once dry, carefully create a gold and red border at the tip. Add small white dots using a dotting tool for a starry effect. Seal it all with a top coat for lasting wear.

Aquatic Bliss

Immerse yourself in the deep blue sea with these vivid blue nails, featuring electric blue waves that almost ripple with life. This design is perfect for those who want to carry a piece of the ocean with them, with its dynamic and fluid appearance.

Photo credit by: @exoticxclawz

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Light Blue: China Glaze’s “Capacity to See Beyond”
  • Electric Blue: Essie’s “Butler Please”
• Top Coat: OPI Top Coat for a smooth, protective finish.
• Tool: Small brush for detailed wave designs.

DIY Instructions

Apply a base coat first, followed by a light blue polish as the base. Use an electric blue to hand-paint waves, giving them a dynamic, flowing look. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the top coat to preserve the design’s vibrancy.

Starlight Ocean

These enchanting blue nails are adorned with starfish and oceanic flora, creating a mystical under-the-sea tableau. The use of transparent blue over a smoky base gives the impression of looking through ocean waters, enhancing the thematic beauty of the design.

Photo credit by: @bbnails_studio82

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Smoky Blue: Zoya’s “Neve”
  • Transparent Blue: Essie’s “Bikini So Teeny”
• Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat for extended wear.
• Decals: Starfish and floral nail stickers.

DIY Instructions

Begin with a base coat for protection. Apply a smoky blue base, then layer with a transparent blue for depth. Place starfish and floral decals strategically to create an under-the-sea effect. Finish with a top coat to seal the decals and enhance the nails’ glossy look.

Floral Marine Fantasy

The vibrant contrast of electric blue and delicate pink floral designs on these nails captures the playful and colorful spirit of summer. Perfect for a day under the sun or an evening by the sea, this design exudes both elegance and fun, making it a versatile choice for any cruise event.

Photo credit by: @nailsbywachel

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Essie’s All-in-One Base Coat for lasting adhesion.
• Polishes:
  • Electric Blue: OPI’s “Blue My Mind”
  • Pink Floral Design: Use acrylic paint for precision.
• Top Coat: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat for a rapid finish.
• Tool: Fine-tip brush for detailed floral artwork.

DIY Instructions

Begin with a base coat to protect your nails. Apply a solid electric blue as the base. Using a fine-tip brush, carefully paint pink floral designs. Finish with a fast-drying top coat to seal the design and add gloss.

Desert Rose Charm

These nails blend a soft peach base with striking black palm designs, adorned with sparkling rhinestones. The contrast creates a sophisticated yet earthy look that’s perfect for those who appreciate a more subtle nod to nature’s beauty while enjoying their luxury cruise.

Photo credit by: @royalnailsandlashes

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Peach: China Glaze’s “Peachy Keen”
  • Black: Sinful Colors Professional in “Black on Black”
• Top Coat: Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy Diamond Top Coat.
• Decorations: Small rhinestones for a hint of sparkle.

DIY Instructions

Apply the base coat for a smooth foundation. Paint the nails with the peach polish as the base. Using a thin brush, draw the black palm designs. Add rhinestones strategically for a decorative touch. Cover with a top coat for durability and shine.

Nautical Elegance

This nail design is a perfect homage to nautical tradition, featuring a sleek anchor motif against a classic red and striped background. It’s an ideal choice for anyone wanting to sport a timeless maritime look while cruising the seas.

Photo credit by: @nicola.lloyd_nailandbrowartist

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Nude: Essie’s “Ballet Slippers”
  • Red: OPI’s “Big Apple Red”
  • White for Stripes: Sally Hansen’s “White Out”
• Top Coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat for extended wear.
• Tool: Striping tape for precise lines and anchor stencil.

DIY Instructions

Start by applying the base coat. Paint the base color nude, and add red at the tips. Use striping tape to create white stripes for a crisp, clean look. Place an anchor stencil on the accent nail and fill it with red. Finish with a top coat to ensure the design lasts throughout your cruise adventure.

Serene Waves

This mesmerizing design features swirling blue patterns on a clear base, echoing the tranquil movement of ocean waves. The sporadic placement of starfish accents brings a touch of whimsical ocean life to your fingertips, perfect for a dreamy sea excursion.

Photo credit by: @gabzgroovynailz

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Start with OPI’s Natural Nail Base Coat for a solid foundation.
• Polishes:
  • Clear Base: Essie’s “Allure”
  • Blue for Swirling Patterns: Sinful Colors in “Endless Blue”
• Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat for durable wear.
• Decorations: Miniature starfish decals.

DIY Instructions

Apply a base coat to protect your nails. Use a clear polish as your base layer. With a fine brush, swirl in the blue polish to create a wavy pattern. Add starfish decals for a charming sea-themed look. Seal with a top coat for a lasting finish.

Coastal Charm

The brilliant blue polish serves as the perfect backdrop for delicate white ocean-themed artwork on these nails. This design combines elegance with fun, using shells and starfish motifs to celebrate the joys of the sea, ideal for any summer cruise.

Photo credit by: @jinx.gels

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Essie’s All-in-One Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Bright Blue: China Glaze’s “I Sea the Point”
  • White for Artwork: OPI’s “Alpine Snow”
• Top Coat: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat for a quick dry.
• Tool: Fine-tip brush for precise detailing.

DIY Instructions

Apply the base coat for nail protection. Coat your nails with the bright blue polish. Use a fine-tip brush to draw the white shells and starfish designs. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before applying a top coat to seal and enhance the durability.

Marine Exploration

Embrace the spirit of the sea with this bold blue and white nail design. The stark contrast between the deep blue and vibrant white captures the dynamic energy of oceanic adventures, while the added nautical elements like shells and starfish further enhance the maritime theme.

Photo credit by: @rachel.lynn.nails

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Deep Blue: Essie’s “Aruba Blue”
  • White: Sally Hansen’s “White On”
• Top Coat: Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy Diamond Top Coat for a glossy finish.
• Decorations: Small seashell and starfish stickers for thematic decoration.

DIY Instructions

Begin with a base coat to protect your nails. Apply the deep blue polish as the base color. Use white polish to add artistic designs of shells and starfish. Place thematic stickers as desired for an enhanced oceanic feel. Seal everything with a top coat for a shiny, long-lasting manicure.

Oceanic Dreamscapes

Capture the mystical essence of the ocean with this ethereal design featuring a dreamy blue base speckled with gold flecks and detailed with delicate sea life motifs. The addition of small star embellishments adds a touch of glamour, perfect for evenings under the starlit sky aboard your cruise.

Photo credit by: @emmadollymix

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Essie’s Here to Stay Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Light Blue Base: OPI’s “Can’t Find My Czechbook”
  • Gold Flecks: OPI’s “Goldeneye”
• Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.
• Decorations: Tiny gold star embellishments and white detailing paint for motifs.

DIY Instructions

Start with a base coat to protect your nails. Apply the light blue polish as a base. Sprinkle gold flecks while the base is still wet. Use a fine brush to add sea life motifs. Apply the star embellishments last. Seal with a top coat for durability and a glossy finish.

Seafoam Splendor

This vibrant design blends various shades of blue and aqua, creating a seamless gradient reminiscent of the ocean’s many hues. The gold seashell and mermaid scale accents offer a rich texture and an opulent feel, making these nails a luxurious addition to any cruise outfit.

Photo credit by: @dazzlenailsbymel

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Aqua: China Glaze’s “Too Yacht to Handle”
  • Blue Gradient: Essie’s “Butler Please”
  • Gold Accent: Essie’s “Good as Gold”
• Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat.
• Decorations: Gold seashell stickers and mermaid scale decals.

DIY Instructions

Apply a base coat for nail protection. Paint the entire nail with the aqua shade. Gradually blend into the deeper blue from the mid-nail to the tip using a sponge for the gradient effect. Apply the gold decorations while the polish is still tacky. Finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Flamingo Beach Party

Embrace the playful side of summer with this pink and aqua flamingo design. This manicure uses vibrant colors and whimsical imagery to bring a fun, tropical vibe to your cruise vacation. It’s perfect for day activities or a casual stroll along the deck.

Photo credit by: @sonyas.nails

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Pink: Sally Hansen’s “Pink Blink”
  • Aqua for Details: OPI’s “Can’t Find My Czechbook”
• Top Coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat for a high-gloss finish.
• Tool: Fine-tip brush for flamingo and palm leaf details.

DIY Instructions

Begin by applying a base coat to protect your nails. Paint the base with pink polish. Use an aqua shade with a fine-tip brush to draw flamingos and palm leaves on alternate nails for a fun look. Seal the design with a top coat to ensure it shines and lasts throughout your cruise.

Mermaid Whispers

This enchanting set combines the allure of the ocean with a touch of fantastical mermaid lore. Aqua tones blend with silver holographic details to create a magical mermaid scale effect. Perfect for those who want to bring a bit of myth and magic to their cruise experience.

Photo credit by: @fourthrocknails

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Essie’s Strong Start Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Aqua: Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple”
  • Silver Holographic: ILNP’s “Mega”
• Top Coat: OPI Top Coat for a lasting glossy finish.
• Decorations: Rhinestones and mermaid scale decals.

DIY Instructions

Apply a base coat to prepare your nails. Paint a solid aqua base. Once dry, overlay with silver holographic polish to mimic the light-catching scales of a mermaid. Accentuate with rhinestones strategically placed near the cuticles. Finish with a top coat to encapsulate the design and add shine.

Oceanic Depths

Dive into the deep blue with these dazzling nails featuring vibrant blue shades mixed with marbled white to resemble the swirling ocean currents. The addition of gemstone accents enhances the look, perfect for sparkling under the sun or starry skies.

Photo credit by: @nailsbytiho

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Deep Blue: China Glaze’s “Up All Night”
  • White Marble: OPI’s “Alpine Snow”
• Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat for resilience.
• Decorations: Clear gemstones for a jewel-like finish.

DIY Instructions

Start with a protective base coat. Apply deep blue as the base color. Use a small sponge to dab white polish for a marbled effect, creating fluid, ocean-like patterns. Place clear gemstones as desired for additional sparkle. Seal with a top coat for enduring beauty.

Playful Dots and Petals

For a light-hearted, whimsical touch, these nails blend soft pink with cool mint, accented with playful dots and petal designs. This look is perfect for those daytime cruise events where you want to sport something both cheerful and stylish.

Photo credit by: @polishedbysaffron

Consumables and Recommendations

• Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Polishes:
  • Pink: Sally Hansen’s “Pink Cadillaquer”
  • Mint: Essie’s “Fashion Playground”
• Top Coat: Revlon Quick Dry Top Coat for a swift finish.
• Tool: Dotting tool and fine brush for detailing.

DIY Instructions

Apply the base coat to protect your nails. Paint the base with alternating colors of pink and mint. Use a dotting tool and fine brush to add dots and petal shapes in contrasting colors for a dynamic and playful design. Finish with a quick-dry top coat to keep your nails looking fresh and fabulous.