Thousands of free-minded holidaygoers are currently sailing around the Caribbean on a 'nude' cruise. But those taking to the open waters after setting sail from Miami, Florida, are having to obey strict rules that come with the exclusive trip.
Called the Big Nude Boat Trip 2025, travel company Bare Necessities is behind the trip. Having set sail from PortMiami last week (3 February), the 11-day long journey has seen the firm take over the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship.
Taking the 2,300 strong guests across the Caribbean, Norwegian Pearl calls at Great Stirrup Cay, a private island in the Bahamas, followed by Puerto Rico, St Maarten, Dominica, Martinique, and St Lucia before returning to Great Stirrup Cay on the journey home at the end of this week.
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"For over three decades, we’ve been working to break down the barriers against social nudity and make clothing-optional vacationing a viable and acceptable option for all," Bare Necessities says.
"We support the belief that sexuality is not a state of undress, but rather, a state of mind. Social nudity is not a sexual activity, and we strive to dispel the misconception that it is anything but natural and beautiful. We have made strides in the acceptance of nude vacationing and our wide range of cruise charters are a testament to our success."
Is it a spicy cruise?
For those thinking the 'nude' aspect of the cruise means it is one for swingers or those in open relationships - a so-called 'spicy cruise' - think again.
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In fact, those partaking in sexual activity that goes against 'standards of etiquette and decorum' - such as in public - will be forced to leave the ship at the next opportunity.
"Bare Necessities cruises are not sexual," the company says.
"If you are seeking a lifestyle / swinger cruise, we are not the right product for you. As an affiliated club of the American Association of Nude Recreation (AANR), we adhere to its standards of etiquette and decorum.
"Violations of these rules will result in offenders being disembarked from the ship at the earliest opportunity, without refund or compensation."
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But you can be naked on the trip?
Absolutely. Just be sensible, such as when at port when it comes to listening to announcements.
Bare Necessities says: "When the ship is at sea or anchored in a port, passengers can be nude unless announcements have been made to the contrary. When the ship is docked alongside in port, all passengers must be dressed throughout the vessel, including balconies, until the ship leaves port and an announcement is made that nudity is again permissible."
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It adds: "Displaying yourself nude in front of other ships in port or while port authorities are on board the vessel for clearance is strictly prohibited."
You don't need to wear clothes in the self-serve buffet area but clothes are needed in the dining areas where casual clothing is permitted (no robes).
"Lingerie, fetish-wear, and excessive genital jewellery are not appropriate at any time," it says. "Please sit on a towel at all times while nude, in a G-string, thong, or any time you are bare-bottomed. A fresh beach towel will be provided in your stateroom each day for that purpose. Stacks of smaller towels will be placed throughout the ship outside of common areas in case you arrive without one."
What about taking photos and videos?
As you can imagine, there are strict rules on this front. Consent is vital and there are 'no photo zones' to look out for.
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If you don't obey the areas where there is a ban, you risk your device being confiscated and the images deleted.
'Fondling' ban and drug issues
There is a ban on touching yourself or other people in a sexual manner in public areas.
"Fondling or inappropriate touching of personal body parts or those of someone else, overt sexual activity or any solicitation for sexual acts is strictly prohibited," the website reads.
As for drugs, it adds: "Passengers must comply with US Federal law regarding the possession or use of illegal substances."
Topics: Cruise Ship, Holiday, Sex and Relationships, World News, US News
Tom Earnshaw