Recently, this intriguing concept caught the internet’s attention, particularly after a passenger’s Reddit Q&A session went viral.
Contrary to what some might think, it’s not a free-for-all; there are specific guidelines around where and when clothing is required, and yes, there are protocols for dealing with arousal.
Kat Whitmire, at 61 years old, holds the title of vice president of sales for Bare Necessities, and her experiences could fill a book.
“I’m a cruise organizer for Bare Necessities Tour and Travel, a nudist-cruise company,” she shared with Business Insider.
With a year-round commitment to planning two specific voyages—a massive February journey dubbed the Big Nude Boat, accommodating 2,100 passengers, and a more intimate summer sailing—Kat’s role is pivotal in bringing these unique travel experiences to life.
Kat’s affinity for cruise ships isn’t a recent development.
Her journey with Bare Necessities began in 2010, and since then, she’s been instrumental in driving sales and ensuring guests have unforgettable experiences aboard the nudist cruises.
“For each cruise, I create schedules so our staffers know when they need to man the information booth, perform ‘dinner duty’ to make sure guests comply with the dress code, and join the dance club at night to make sure things go smoothly.”
The aspect of nudism, naturally, adds an interesting twist to the cruise experience, one that could easily be misconstrued or sexualized.
However, Kat is quick to clarify the ethos behind Bare Necessities.
The philosophy of nudism, as Kat describes, is about shedding more than just clothes; it’s about leaving behind societal judgments and assumptions.
“Our guests form deep friendships that I don’t think form as readily on a textile cruise.”
“We’re not a swingers’ cruise. This is not lifestyle travel. There are plenty of those travel opportunities out there, but that’s not what we do,” Kat emphasizes, distinguishing their cruises from other adult-themed voyages.
