This past Monday afternoon marked the departure of the first major nudist cruise from Miami's port, embarking on an 11-day journey through various Caribbean islands. Dubbed the Big Nude Boat, this voyage caters to those who enjoy spending their time as nature intended.
The nudist travel agency Bare Necessities has teamed up with Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line to offer this unique experience aboard the Norwegian Pearl. This 295-meter-long vessel can accommodate up to 2,300 passengers, providing multiple dining options, including a "large buffet area for outdoor nude dining," as described by the agency.
The Norwegian Pearl boasts numerous amenities tailored to suit the nudist cruise lifestyle, according to the company's website. The cruise itinerary includes stops at Great Stirrup Bay in the Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico, Phillipsburg in St. Maarten, Roseau in Dominica, Fort-de-France in Martinique, and Castries in Saint Lucia. The journey culminates back in Miami on Friday, February 14th, coinciding with Valentine's Day.
Ticket prices range from approximately $2,000 per person for an interior cabin to $33,155 for a three-bedroom villa. Despite the clothing-optional nature of the cruise, passengers must adhere to strict guidelines, such as wearing clothes in dining areas where bathrobes are also banned. When nude or in thong attire, a towel must be used before sitting "in the cabin, pool deck, and buffet area."
Nudity is permitted only while the ship is at sea, never while docked at ports. Passengers must remain clothed throughout the ship, including on balconies, until the ship leaves port and nudity is allowed again. Additionally, "inappropriate touching or fondling" is forbidden, as is "being nude in view of other ships at port."
Bare Necessities has also prohibited lingerie, "fetish clothing," and taking photos or videos of other guests without consent. The agency's mission is to offer "relaxing, entertaining, and health-conscious vacation opportunities that provide non-threatening natural environments where appreciation, wonder, and compatibility with unadorned human form and nature can occur," according to their statement.
FAQs About the Nudist Cruise Experience
What are the rules for nudity on the cruise?
Nudity is allowed only while the ship is at sea. Passengers must remain clothed in all dining areas and while the ship is in port, including on balconies.
Are there any restrictions on clothing?
Yes, passengers are prohibited from wearing lingerie, fetish clothing, and must follow specific dress codes in dining areas.
Can I take photos or videos on the cruise?
Taking photos or videos of other passengers without their consent is strictly prohibited to respect privacy.