A Clothing Optional 'Nude' Cruise Aboard a Carnival Cruise Ship Is Setting Sail — Seriously. Here's What to Expect. Although passengers can be nude most of the time, some restrictions apply.
By Amanda Breen Edited by Jessica Thomas
Key Takeaways
- 'The Big Nude Boat' is a cruise offering that takes place each year.
- Though it's hosted on a Carnival vessel, it's not sponsored by the company.
- Nude cruisers are adults who tend to be between ages 35 and 65.
It seems like there's a cruise for everyone these days, whether they're big fans of Gwyneth Paltrow's goop, looking for love or just want to take all of their clothes off.
That's right: "The Big Nude Boat" is an annual voyage that will disembark from Tampa on February 25 aboard Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Pride, with prices starting at $1,200 for a double occupancy room, TheStreet reported.
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Although the unusual cruise will be hosted on a Carnival vessel with its staff, it's not Carnival-sponsored. Bare Necessities, a tour and travel company that's "been working to break down the barriers of social nudity" since 1991, chartered the ship to host its week-long excursion, per the outlet.
The demographic on nude cruises is "surprisingly wide," according to Cruise Critic. Adults of all ages take part, though they're generally college-educated, between 35 and 65, and appreciate outdoor recreation and activities, per the cruise ship review site (70% are also repeat customers).
Clothing might be optional on Carnival Pride next winter, but some rules do stand. Customers must be dressed whenever the ship is in port; on some excursions in port; and in certain areas of the vessel, including the main dining room and select specialty restaurants, per TheStreet.
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Additionally, pictures are prohibited unless "express permission" is given by the person being photographed, and towels will be provided for everyone who is nude or near-nude to use, per the outlet.
