camerontel

Methinks you mean naturists or nudists; however, I have no reason to think a naturalist would necessarily avoid a clothing optional cruise. :)

On my last cruise, I was talking with a woman who described many of her peers as being quite exhibitionistic in their display of fancy clothing and fancy jewelry (some real, some faux), and she found that kind of showy behavior to be much to her disliking, describing it as "ego on show", trying to create an image or impression that probably wasn't very authentic. When someone is nude, on the other hand, I thought to myself, they are about as vulnerable and real as it gets. I wonder why people are so seemingly shocked by seeing another person nude? Underneath all the layers we are pretty much the same. All that shame and taboo is what seems unnatural to me. IMO, IMHO

The balcony on the ship I was on last month was totally private (Zuiderdam), so I think that when that's the case, not to worry. I do agree that because nudity is such a profoundly taboo behavior in our culture (most unfortunately), it should be restricted to designated areas. Maybe one of these days we will evolve into a far less "body shame-based" society like many of our western counterparts and therefore let go of our of harsh judgments that condemn others who are different from us.

Throughout much of Eastern Europe, steam rooms and saunas are shared by both men and women sans clothing, and I found it refreshing and natural. But, I totally understand that our culture is not that way.

Not a very friendly response, I must say.

Generally speaking I would answer yes. I do believe in using common sense and discretion, but if the balcony is private I don't hesitate to go out there naked.