Unclothed Ocean Voyages: Maintaining Liberated Leisure amidst Rigid Guidelines
Embark on a unique and liberating journey with Bare Necessities' naturist cruises, where guests can experience a clothing-optional environment on the high seas. These cruises, organised by the reputable agency based in Austin, Texas, aim to provide a respectful and comfortable atmosphere for all participants.
Attire and Nudity
On these cruises, guests may choose to be nude in designated areas, but it's essential to adhere to the dress code in public or non-naturist zones. This includes dressing when the ship is docked in port, even on cabin balconies. The cruises promote a naturist environment where nudity is normal, but discretion is observed to comply with ship policies and broader legal frameworks.
Photography
Photography rules are strict to protect guest privacy. Generally, guests are prohibited from taking photos or videos without explicit permission, especially of other guests. Unauthorized photography or sharing explicit images is typically forbidden and may be against the cruise line’s and organiser's policies.
Behavior
Guests are expected to follow standards of respectful and appropriate behavior typical of naturist communities. This includes no sexual activity in public areas, respecting others' personal space and consent, and adhering to the cruise ship's rules and federal regulations. Naturist cruises emphasize a non-sexual, family-friendly or adult-friendly recreation environment.
Federal Laws
Even though these cruises offer a clothing-optional environment, they must operate within the scope of U.S. federal laws and international maritime regulations. This means that nudity is only permitted in designated zones or times that are sanctioned by the cruise organisers and the cruise line, and any illegal activity (e.g., public indecency off designated areas, unauthorized photography) is subject to legal consequences.
Passengers must also respect U.S. federal laws regarding the possession or use of illegal substances. Clothing is required for all meals consumed in the dining rooms, and lingerie, fetish clothing, and excessive genital jewelry are not appropriate at any time.
Practical Information
The minimum price for a Bare Necessities' naturist cruise is $16,000 per person for a double room. A charter on the Scenic Eclipse II for a trip to Vanuatu and New Caledonia, departing from Cairns, Australia, is planned for 2025/2026.
Passengers are required to dress in port and are not allowed to be naked during the presentation to the captain of the ship. Passengers may be disembarked for abusing alcohol and/or drugs, violating safety norms, including the dress code and behaviour code, and not respecting the laws of the visited country. No refunds will be given in case of disembarkation, and no transportation from the disembarkation port will be provided.
The self-service buffet area is clothing-optional, and casual attire is allowed in all areas. Bare Necessities organises several trips with main navigation companies, and the cruise industry offers a variety of trips, including themed cruises such as those for naturists.
For precise details, it is best to consult Bare Necessities’ official documentation or customer service for their cruise-specific rules on these issues. The market for naturist cruises is growing, with around sixty proposals available, and more affordable options, such as a Norwegian Cruise Line trip from Miami to Miami for the Caribbean, starting at $2,000 per person in a double inside cabin in February 2026, are also available.
While exploring new destinations during travel, one can enjoy a unique home-and-garden-like atmosphere on Bare Necessities' naturist cruises, as these vessels offer a escape from the ordinary with spacious and nature-inspired common areas, indoor gardens, and serene outdoor spaces. Additionally, for those seeking a shift in lifestyle, these cruises also provide a clothing-optional environment in designated areas, promoting a respectful and comfortable atmosphere for all participants while adhering to legal and dress code regulations.
