You’ve probably heard about the new “clothing-optional” cruise that has sparked quite a heated debate on social media.
Many people say it’s shameful and disgusting, while others believe it’s only fair to give people the freedom and option to go without clothes if they feel comfortable doing so.
One question many have raised is how the staff, who have to deal with this particular type of cruise, have reacted.
Well, after some digging, we managed to interview a worker who told us what it’s really like to work in this setting and what actually goes on.
Insights From the Worker
As already said, after some research, we got in touch with a bartender who worked on one of these cruises. For privacy reasons, she preferred to stay anonymous, but all you need to know is that she served on both the outdoor pool decks and the indoor bars.
“At first, I was a little scared at the idea,” she revealed. “But we were quickly reassured that it wasn’t a cruise with any ulterior motives, just a trip for people who like to spend their day without clothes.
“Of course, it can seem strange to anyone who’s not used to it, and there are bound to be some awkward moments at the beginning.”
She Then Explained What Life is like on Board These Cruises
“It’s actually quite straightforward, there’s nothing complicated or hidden. It runs like any other cruise; the only difference is that passengers are free to remove all their clothes.”
“One important thing to note is that there’s absolutely nothing shady going on. Since I often worked at the pool bar, I got to observe how passengers interacted quite closely.
Everyone just enjoys the cruise as if there’s nothing unusual about it. They sunbathe, relax, have a drink, and join in on onboard activities like dance lessons and yoga.
I think the positive side of not wearing clothes is that there’s no prejudice about the person in front of you. It makes getting to know people more natural, and once you get past the initial embarrassment, everything becomes much easier.
You Must Wear Clothes on These Occasions
Another thing to consider, and that many people don’t know, is that you do have to wear clothes in certain areas of the ship or at particular times of day.
For example, you have to be dressed when dining at the restaurant or when the ship is approaching port.
Also, passengers are expected to use towels when sitting down for hygiene reasons. Then there are the two rules that all passengers must abide by on these types of cruises, and the organizers are quite strict with monitoring.
Is There Something More Behind It?
Many people wrongly assume these cruises involve something inappropriate or have an ulterior motive.
The crew member confirmed that any kind of intimate behavior is strictly forbidden in public areas and that she has never witnessed anything inappropriate.
Of course, just like on any other kind of vacation, guests are free to do whatever they like in the privacy of their own cabins.
Not wearing clothes might make it easier to strike up conversations or meet new people, but again, anything more personal is meant to stay behind closed doors.
Failure to comply with these rules may even result in being banned from the ship, along with these other 7 rules that passengers must always comply with.
