Not everyone’s idea of a dream holiday involves stripping down with 2,000 strangers, but for one man, a nude cruise was a bucket-list experience. Forget assumptions of chaos and antics – this was a well-organised, rule-heavy voyage.
Sharing his story online, he revealed what really happens on these unconventional cruises and the one golden rule that ‘everyone knew’ on board.
The anonymous cruiser opened up about how different this trip felt compared to visits to nude beaches. With a tight-knit community and experienced staff enforcing naturist etiquette, it felt safe and respectful. “I’ve never been somewhere with such clear boundaries and so much trust,” he shared.
What stood out most was the lack of judgment. Passengers weren’t pressured to strip if they didn’t want to, and there were plenty of spaces to relax. “You could truly be yourself here,” he added.
The Bare Necessities of Nude Cruising
Organised by Texas-based Bare Necessities Tour and Travel, the cruise set sail from Tampa, Florida, taking passengers on a week-long journey to Mexico and Honduras. Costing $2,500 (£1,965) per person, the trip wasn’t a free-for-all but catered to experienced nudists seeking a body-positive environment.
The anonymous cruiser described the atmosphere as “awesome,” emphasising that it was “not a swingers’ cruise or a sex-positive environment.” Instead, it was a haven for nudists looking for relaxation in a judgment-free zone.
The Golden Rule: No Photography, No Exceptions
While a nude cruise might sound like a free-spirited getaway, it’s not without its boundaries – and the most important of them all? Absolutely no photography.
The rule is simple but essential: no phones, cameras, or recording devices are allowed in public areas, and passengers must receive explicit consent before capturing any images. “There were no phones outside the cabins, no accidental snaps, and no online leaks,” the passenger explained. This strict enforcement creates a safe, judgment-free atmosphere for everyone on board.
To ensure compliance, the cruise staff took the rule seriously. “There were many signs posted, and staff from the charter company were constantly monitoring the ship to enforce good naturist etiquette,” the passenger shared. Designated “no photo zones” around pools and other social areas were clearly marked, and any breach could result in confiscation of devices or even removal from the cruise.
The result? A stress-free environment where passengers didn’t need to worry about unflattering angles, invasive photos, or breaches of their privacy. As the passenger put it, “I’ve spent time online researching nudism, and I’ve never seen a single photo from the cruise except for group shots people voluntarily posed for.”
Other Rules Keep Things Running Smoothly
For a cruise where clothes are optional, the rules were surprisingly strict. Here are some key ones passengers had to follow:
1. Timing is Everything
Passengers couldn’t strip down immediately. The captain would announce when clothes could be removed, usually about 30 minutes after departing port. On return, the same rule applied in reverse – everyone had to be dressed as the ship approached port.
2. Always Bring a Towel
Hygiene was paramount. Passengers were required to sit on a towel at all times to avoid spreading germs. The ship provided plenty of clean towels, ensuring everyone adhered to this rule. One passenger joked, “You never want to be caught without your trusty towel.”
3. Clothing in Certain Areas
While nudity was encouraged, it wasn’t allowed everywhere. Dining areas required casual clothing – though robes and fetish wear were strictly prohibited. Similarly, all passengers had to dress when docked in port or when port authorities were on board.
4. No Funny Business
Unlike the misconceptions surrounding nude cruises, overt sexual activity was prohibited. The focus was on body positivity, not sexualisation. As the passenger put it, “It was about naturism, not indulgence.”
Why Nude Cruises Are Growing in Popularity
Bare Necessities isn’t the only company offering these unique holidays. With 60 shipboard options and growing demand, naturist cruises are quickly becoming a mainstream alternative to traditional holidays. But why are more people opting for these unconventional getaways?
For many, it’s the chance to completely disconnect – both literally and figuratively. Without the distraction of phones or cameras, passengers can immerse themselves in the experience, free from the pressures of social media or judgment. The combination of body positivity, stunning destinations, and like-minded travellers creates a uniquely liberating environment.
Strict rules and clear boundaries also contribute to the appeal. Unlike other holiday options, nude cruises offer a sense of order and respect. Knowing that hygiene, privacy, and safety are priorities allows passengers to fully relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about misunderstandings or breaches of etiquette.
Another draw is the strong sense of community. Naturist cruises tend to attract a mix of seasoned nudists and curious newcomers, all eager to embrace the freedom of going au naturel in a respectful, inclusive setting. For many, it’s an opportunity to shed societal expectations – and their clothes – while forging connections with people from around the world.
And then there are the destinations. These cruises often visit stunning, sun-soaked locations like Mexico, the Caribbean, or the Mediterranean, offering passengers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences both on and off the ship. Combining beautiful scenery with the novelty of the lifestyle makes the trip feel both adventurous and indulgent.
Final Thoughts
A nude cruise might not be for everyone, but for those who try it, the experience seems to be “truly unforgettable”. It’s not just about shedding clothes but shedding societal pressures, embracing a sense of freedom, and connecting with others in a uniquely respectful and open-minded environment.
As the anonymous passenger concluded, “It was awesome – not just the freedom but the mutual respect on board. Everyone followed the rules, and that’s what made it work.”
Would you give it a try? The idea might sound bold, but for those who dare, it just might be the adventure of a lifetime?!
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I'm Hannah and I've been cruising for as long as I can remember.
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