An organizer of a clothing-optional cruise has shared insights into the most common misconceptions people have about individuals who participate in these unique trips.
Despite the non-sexual nature of these cruises, they often capture public attention due to the intrigue surrounding them.
Let’s face it, many are curious about the happenings on these voyages but prefer not to experience it firsthand.
While both staff and attendees say there is plenty of enjoyment to be found on these cruises, some critics claim that these trips are nothing more than elaborate adult entertainment.
However, this stereotype is challenged by an organizer of such a cruise, who explains the main misunderstanding regarding the passengers.
The Sun took part in a clothing-optional cruise along the River Exe estuary in Devon, UK, and interviewed Rachel Wick, who has been organizing the annual event.
“It’s really sad that a large percentage of the population equate being naked only with sex – it’s not,” she told the outlet.
“If they came to our event, they would see it’s clearly not what it’s about.
“If somebody misbehaves, they will be on our banned list. Not that it’s ever happened but we’re always mindful that this has to be a safe environment because you can feel quite vulnerable when you haven’t got your clothes on.”
Rachel, who has organized the cruise with her husband Nigel since 2012, added: “One of the things I love about it is you can’t tell from looking at all of us whether we are rich or poor, working or retired. When you can’t judge people’s status, we’re all on a level.
“People think you have to be beautiful but we’re all normal people of different shapes and sizes.”
Although the couple organizes the boat trip annually, they also host other nudist events, fostering a diverse community of participants.
“The nudist world is a real mix of people, from prison officers to barristers and doctors,” Nigel explained to the Sun.
“It is the sense of freedom and being relaxed in your own body that draws people in. It’s a very friendly environment. If we go to a hotel, people generally don’t go out, they stay all day.
“We have never had any trouble at any event. It’s an older group and if anybody started a fight, they’re likely going to break a hip.”