Topless sunbathing on cruise ships is a topic that always divides opinion.
While some cruisers (like me) welcome an opportunity to tan the boobies, there are others who are horrified at the idea. Like this person, who messaged Carnival ambassdor John Heald to check…
Topless sunbathing is allowed on several cruise ships. But – (and this is a big but) – there are some key rules you have to follow.
So, whether you’re keen to work on that tan line-free holiday glow or just curious about what’s allowed, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about topless sunbathing at sea.
Do: Choose A Cruise Line That Allows Topless Sunbathing
Most North American cruise lines have become quite conservative about topless sunbathing in recent years. It’s quite different from how things used to be. In the past, many cruise ships, including Carnival, had designated sundecks for this very purpose, but not any more.
These days, the big names like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line have strict policies that state that women must keep their tops on at all times in public.
Men, of course, are free to go topless by the pool. Even though some of them have larger chests than many women. Unfair? Maybe.
Norwegian Cruise Line makes it crystal clear in their guest conduct policy that topless sunbathing isn’t allowed.
And while Carnival doesn’t explicitly ban it in their policies, they expect guests to wear “respectful attire” throughout the ship.
John Heald has confirmed that while Carnival ships used to have topless sunbathing over 20 years ago, it has since been banned, alongside other retro activities like skeet shooting.
But it’s not all disappointing news! If you’re keen on topless sunbathing, there are still some options…
These 5 Cruise Lines Allow Women To Go Topless:
1. Virgin Voyages
Richard Branson’s cruise line Virgin Voyages has been quite revolutionary since launching in 2020. They’ve got a special area called “The Perch” on Deck 17 where you can comfortably sunbathe topless.
2. Costa Cruises
Italian cruise line Costa Cruises permits opless sunbathing on their top decks, by the pool, and on cabin balconies, embracing a European-style sunbathing approach.
3. AIDA Cruises
This German cruise line offers a sun deck dedicated exclusively to topless sunbathing on nearly all its ships.
4. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Another German cruise line, Hapag-LLoyd features a designated area for topless sunbathing on its Europa ship.
5. Cunard
British cruise line Cunard allows ladies to go topless but not by the pool, only on your own balcony. This is very much in line with the opinions of many British women who wouldn’t go topless at the beach in the UK, but would happily do it in their own back garden!
Do: Choose The Right Spot
As you can see from the policies above, topless sunbathing is only allowed in certain areas, and those depends on which ship youre on.
Virgin Voyages has made it really easy with “The Perch” on Deck 17 – it’s a lovely dedicated space where you can feel completely at ease.
On the whole, the best place to whip off your top and work on your tan is on a high deck away from the main pools. You’ll certainly want to be fully clothed when inside the ship, and that includes a cover-up over your bikini.
Do: Consider Your Itinerary
It’s worth noting that acceptable practices can vary depending on where you’re cruising. European routes tend to be more relaxed about topless sunbathing – I’ve noticed it’s particularly common in Mediterranean itineraries. But if you’re sailing from North America, you might find stricter policies in place.
Remember, if you’re not sure about anything, it’s better to ask than assume.
Don’t: Forget The Sunscreen
If you plan on baring your boobs, don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen! Those upper decks can get quite sunny and with the coiol breeze you may not feel yourself burning. Be sure to protect any areas that aren’t usually exposed to the sun.
Don’t: Be Topless In Family Areas
I can’t stress this enough – even if you’re on a cruise line that allows topless sunbathing, you’ll want to avoid the main pool areas and family zones completely!
If your ships has an adults only area, as most do, then make use of it.
Don’t: Take Photos Of People
Taking photos in topless sunbathing is a complete no-no. It’s about respecting everyone’s privacy and comfort. Even if you’re just trying to get a selfie, it’s best to keep your camera tucked away while in these areas.
Remember, breaking these rules could lead to a chat with ship security or, in extreme cases, being asked to leave at the next port. It’s always better to play it safe and follow the ship’s guidelines!
Do: Consider Local Regulations
Ships may adjust their policies when they’re docked in certain ports of call. For instance, some Middle Eastern and Asian countries have quite strict modesty laws that ships must respect.
So while sunbathing topless on your balcony may be okay while the ship is at sea, there’s a good chance that it may not be once your ship is docked.
Do: Research Nude and Topless Beaches
Depending on your itinerary, you may spend more time sunbathing topless on the beach than you do on your ship. Most beaches in the Mediterranean allow topless sunbathing. On some beaches you’ll find that the majority of women opt to be naked from the waist up.
In the Caribbean, there are fewer options. But Cozumel does have some topless beaches that are worth a visit.
Do: Consider A Nude Cruise
Clothing-optional cruises have surged in popularity in recent years and there are lots of itineraries to choose from. It’s worth researching these carefully as they are quite diverse, with some offering a relaxed experience for those who prefer the comfort of being textile-free and others offering a much more risque experience.
Suggested read: The Best Nude & Clothing-Optional Cruises
It all comes down to culture
Researching this article has really highlighted how the differences in cruise line policies regarding topless sunbathing are influenced by the local cultures of where the ships are based.
I recently took a cruise with the German river cruise line A-Rosa and as I walked into the ‘family-friendly’ spa (where kids are allowed), I was taken aback by how every single guest, men and women alike, were fully-nude.
As a British person, I found this to be a little unsettling and I felt a little uncomfortable being the only person in swimwear. Especially in the hot tub! But for Germans, it’s totally normal.
At the other end of the nudity spectrum, I also find it difficult to empathise with someone who is worried that their teenage sons may see a pair of breasts. Surely, they have seen them before? Maybe not.
At the end of the day, all that matters is that you are comfortable, and that the people around you are comfortable. Be sure to do your research about the rules before whipping off your top and everyone wil be happy.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
