A 67-Year-Old Man When On a 2000-Person Nude Cruise. Here’s How It Went.
A 67-year-old man, along with his 61-year-old wife, dipped their toes into the world of nudism on a nude cruise. Upon sharing their candid experiences with fellow travelers, questions and comments have come up online (naturally). Let’s take a look at the details of their vacation and hope to better understand the world of nudism and their cruising.
The Nude Cruise Experience
The adventure began with booking a cruise through a company called “Bare Necessities,” a Texas-based travel company specializing in clothing-optional ship charters since 1990.1 The trip was a seven-day voyage leaving from Tampa, Florida on a Carnival cruise liner (a big boat). The Cruise liner held around 2000 passengers and promised stops in Mexico and Honduras.
However, the nude cruise wasn’t a swingers’ or sex-positive event, but rather a gathering of seasoned nudists seeking a chance to kick back. It was described that about 30 minutes after exiting or before entering a new port, the captain singled when clothing could be removed.
The passengers were made up of a diverse group, mostly of individuals between their 50s and 70s, with a notable presence of gay men and a scarcity of younger couples. There were varying nationalities on board, predominantly American, and the atmosphere was inclusive and accepting.
Addressing Questions, Comments, Concerns
When pressed for some answers concerning privacy and hygiene, the man assured readers that there were strict guidelines and vigilant staff ensuring a respectful environment. The cruise enforced a no-photo policy, which gave a sense of security and peace among passengers. There were also plenty of clean towels and designated areas for clothing areas to maintain a sense of comfort and hygiene.
While nudity was encouraged throughout the nude cruise, certain areas did mandate clothing, like the main dining room and specialty restaurants. However, evenings saw a mix of attire choices, ranging from completely nude to dressy formal wear, adding to the cruise’s unique charm.
When summarizing his experience, the man described it as “awesome.” The freedom to do various activities in the nude, from beach outings to dancing, was a freeing experience, to say the least. But despite his enjoyment, he expressed uncertainty about doing it again, emphasizing several other travel options one could go on. This was more of a “one and done” scenario.
General Nudist Rules
Drawing parallels between the nude cruise experience and nudist colony guidelines, there are a few key rules and etiquettes governing nudist gatherings. From clothing-optional policies to hygiene practices, nudist colonies maintain a balance between freedom and respect.2
Carolyn Hawkins of the American Association for Nude Recreation shed some light on social dynamics at nudist resorts, saying there is an emphasis on including everyone and being accepting.3 Despite different comfort levels in the community, resorts offer a range of options, from clothing-optional areas to designated nude spaces.
Nudist colonies prioritize mutual respect and modesty, prohibiting overt displays of affection and sexual behavior. Additionally, entry protocols aim to maintain gender balance and uphold community standards – meaning there’s a good chance that a single person on their own probably won’t be let in.
Embracing Body Acceptance
In a culture often fixated on appearances, nudist colonies promote body positivity and comfort for all, fostering an environment free from judgment. While certain dress codes apply, the emphasis remains on naturalism rather than sexualization.
It would seem the nude cruise offered a glimpse into the world of nudism itself, highlighting the blend of freedom, respect, and camaraderie ever present in the colony. As travelers navigate the nuances of nudist etiquette and rules, they should certainly expect to embrace a lifestyle that prioritizes acceptance, liberation, and the simple joy of being nude in a safe and respectful environment.
