Naked neighbors on balcony next door...

[mexico5]

Hi, just back from our first HAL cruise on the Oosterdam...it was a good cruise but we wouldn't sail with HAL again. We much prefer Princess and NCL in all areas except for stateroom/room service dining and the crew.

But...just curious if this has happened to anyone before. It wasn't the end of the world...just weird. Our first sea day we sat out on our balcony (fantastic one at that!) and our neighbors (maybe you are on CC?:eek:) came out to tan on theirs too..butt naked...I mean nothing on the man or woman. I don't think they were Canadians as they were way too tanned (or should I say leathery) so maybe from Europe where it's hotter? Anyhoo...my DH and I vacation alot at All inclusives so we are used to seeing the man in the thong and the women that go topless...not a big deal...but I am not sure if they realized we (and how many others?) could see them.

I told my DH if we can see them (through the glare of the panel) that they could see us so make sure he wears something when out there...we were pretty close to the balcony cabins that "swing out" so I think they might have been seen by many people...interesting...the second sea day the same thing...both naked out suntanning...the last sea day it was too cold for it.

Also I feel sorry for a couple that must not have been getting their "special" gifts. At the Pinnacle Grill one night the waiter came over and presented us with a special cake for our special celebration! Again the captain sent us a note to congratulate us...I phoned down to say that some couple was being confused for us but these things kept on happening...oh well...hope the "real couple" got something!

[bepsf]

But how were they dressed on Formal Night?
;)

[Krazy Kruizers]

Welcome Home

Sorry that in some ways that you did not specifically mention that you were disappointed in HAL and won't be sailing them again.

Naked people on a balcony -- yes -- years ago on one of the Vista class ships the people in the Penthouse were always out there naked.

As for celebrations -- we don't do them any more on HAL -- even though they have known our dates (and even mentioned it several times) -- when the actual date arrived -- nothing -- no cake -- never a card from anyone.

[CleoT]

But how were they dressed on Formal Night?
;)

Funny. :D

[mexico5]

But how were they dressed on Formal Night?
;)

Funny...we never saw their faces after the initial shock wore off...each night at dinner we looked around to see if we saw a really tanned older couple but never saw one!

I have to say that we have never seen such awful dressed people on formal night or the other nights as we did on HAL. After reading these boards my DH brought a nice suit to wear and I brought a couple of black dresses and it was for nothing...although we quite enjoyed it and we got some nice formal pics taken. Honestly, the guests on NCL were much better dressed on "formal optional" night than on HAL's "formal night". Not sure if it was just this cruise or where we sailed out of or what but we have never seen SO many jeans, runners and sweatshirts! It usually doesn't bother us but we were expecting more after reading these boards. Someone did point out however that these boards make up such a tiny part of the passengers.

[iriemon]

We had that happen when we went on a Princess Cruise. As you may know, Princess ships have a cascading balcony set up. We were on the Baja deck, and I came out on the balcony one day, looked down and there was a man butt naked lying on his stomach sunbathing. We were stopping at St Martin that trip so maybe he was just preparing for Orient Beach.

[mexico5]

Welcome Home

Sorry that in some ways that you did not specifically mention that you were disappointed in HAL and won't be sailing them again.

Naked people on a balcony -- yes -- years ago on one of the Vista class ships the people in the Penthouse were always out there naked.

As for celebrations -- we don't do them any more on HAL -- even though they have known our dates (and even mentioned it several times) -- when the actual date arrived -- nothing -- no cake -- never a card from anyone.

Thanks! I've been reading these boards long enough to know that if I say that I don't love HAL that I will be flamed! There really is a cruiseline for everyone and we are glad we tried HAL.

[mexico5]

We had that happen when we went on a Princess Cruise. As you may know, Princess ships have a cascading balcony set up. We were on the Baja deck, and I came out on the balcony one day, looked down and there was a man butt naked lying on his stomach sunbathing. We were stopping at St Martin that trip so maybe he was just preparing for Orient Beach.

Well at least he was on his stomach!:eek: This man just simply sat in his chair...note to self...wash off deck chair before using next time!

[iriemon]

Well at least he was on his stomach!:eek: This man just simply sat in his chair...note to self...wash off deck chair before using next time!

We did not stay out long enough to see if he turned over or not.

Better yet, pack the can of lysol.

[monakayk]

Never seen anyone (so far) in the 'buff' out on their balcony.

May I ask why you said you would not go on HAL again but prefer Princess. This will be my 1st cruise coming up on HAL Oosterdam with my DD. I do hope we will enjoy ourselves since we do like the night-life on a cruise and love to dance. Was there much dancing (Classic Rock, 70s, 80's) music going on?

[mexico5]

Never seen anyone (so far) in the 'buff' out on their balcony.

May I ask why you said you would not go on HAL again but prefer Princess. This will be my 1st cruise coming up on HAL Oosterdam with my DD. I do hope we will enjoy ourselves since we do like the night-life on a cruise and love to dance. Was there much dancing (Classic Rock, 70s, 80's) music going on?

Hi, the main reason is the "open seating" dining. To sum things up my DH and I ONLY want a table for 2...breakfast, lunch and dinner. Before anyone calls him anti social, it's not that at all! He's a lawyer and works very hard and is just plain tired of having to talk to people and we want "alone" time. Also he wouldn't want to have to stop me from reaching across the table during a heated political debate:eek: It seems to me that the HAL cruiser likes the "open seating" concept but uses it differently than the passengers do on Princess and NCL. HAL passengers like the flexible dining times but still like to have tablemates. That's only one portion of it for us...we want flexible dining times and a table for 2. We figured out we needed to make reservations every night in order to have a table for 2 so that was alright. BUT...we don't like to have reservations...sort of defeats the "anytime" dining concept. On Princess we never had reservations and only had to wait one night for a bit and the girl simply gave us a beeper and we went for a drink. Same thing on NCL. I also thought the dining room was not nearly as beautiful as the one on NCl or Princess...

Sorry I can't help you with the dancing...maybe the passengers came to life at night, but during the day the lounges were mainly filled with passengers reading! We like to have an early afternoon martini (doesn't have to be happy hour) and we were hard pressed to find one open.

You will have a great cruise! DH and I have never had a bad one, but you can't help compare the lines and pick one that meets most of your requirements!

[tjcox9]

We had that happen when we went on a Princess Cruise. As you may know, Princess ships have a cascading balcony set up. We were on the Baja deck, and I came out on the balcony one day, looked down and there was a man butt naked lying on his stomach sunbathing. We were stopping at St Martin that trip so maybe he was just preparing for Orient Beach.

Likewise, on a Princess cruise - if you are familiar with the Caribe deck, it has the larger balcony that is half covered/half "naked". We were on the deck above and several times when we were on our balcony a deck above, the couple below would be out in the altogether doing some scenic viewing.

It was several days before they happened to look up and notice that they were putting on a show for one and all above them. Love the Caribe balconies, but please stay under the covered portion if you're going natural.

[lorekauf]

Hi, the main reason is the "open seating" dining. To sum things up my DH and I ONLY want a table for 2...breakfast, lunch and dinner. Before anyone calls him anti social, it's not that at all! He's a lawyer and works very hard and is just plain tired of having to talk to people and we want "alone" time. Also he wouldn't want to have to stop me from reaching across the table during a heated political debate:eek: It seems to me that the HAL cruiser likes the "open seating" concept but uses it differently than the passengers do on Princess and NCL. HAL passengers like the flexible dining times but still like to have tablemates. That's only one portion of it for us...we want flexible dining times and a table for 2. We figured out we needed to make reservations every night in order to have a table for 2 so that was alright. BUT...we don't like to have reservations...sort of defeats the "anytime" dining concept. On Princess we never had reservations and only had to wait one night for a bit and the girl simply gave us a beeper and we went for a drink. Same thing on NCL. I also thought the dining room was not nearly as beautiful as the one on NCl or Princess...

Sorry I can't help you with the dancing...maybe the passengers came to life at night, but during the day the lounges were mainly filled with passengers reading! We like to have an early afternoon martini (doesn't have to be happy hour) and we were hard pressed to find one open.

You will have a great cruise! DH and I have never had a bad one, but you can't help compare the lines and pick one that meets most of your requirements!
I'm sorry that you didn't enjoy HAL. There is a cruise line for everyone. I like both HAL and Princess but have been leaning towards HAL lately. It's perfectly fine to want a 2 top and I don't think that's being anti social. That's just nasty about the naked folks. That's just TMI.

[Hawaiidan]

One might consider that sailing on 7 day and in some areas brings out, well ,different people.:rolleyes:

General rule of thumb I follow is the passengers, of any line tend to become more mannered and better dressed for every day past 14 days.
For that very reason I choose cruises of 21 to 28 day.

Also sailing to place line Mexico and the Carribe appeal to people more into party and indulgence of self...a beach party atmosphere reigns supreme, rather than a sence of formality.
Age has nothing to do with it I have observed its lenght and destination that seem to rule.

If your going fishing, you need to be aware that certain baits attracts specific fish;)

It sort of sounded that you objection to Holland America was based more on passenger quality , or lack there of, as you indicated you like the Food, Crew, Cabin, Ship ( what else is there?).

I might suggest that there is too a general trend for the popular lines to lower the bar for the markets they seek as passengers.

You might want to consider Regent or Seabourn..... not that much more expensive when all things are considered.... and a pretty strong assurance that your fellow passengers will be a delight to dine and mingle with to a much higher degree.

[mexico5]

One might consider that sailing on 7 day and in some areas brings out, well ,different people.:rolleyes:

General rule of thumb I follow is the passengers, of any line tend to become more mannered and better dressed for every day past 14 days.
For that very reason I choose cruises of 21 to 28 day.

Also sailing to place line Mexico and the Carribe appeal to people more into party and indulgence of self...a beach party atmosphere reigns supreme, rather than a sence of formality.
Age has nothing to do with it I have observed its lenght and destination that seem to rule.

If your going fishing, you need to be aware that certain baits attracts specific fish;)

It sort of sounded that you objection to Holland America was based more on passenger quality , or lack there of, as you indicated you like the Food, Crew, Cabin, Ship ( what else is there?).

I might suggest that there is too a general trend for the popular lines to lower the bar for the markets they seek as passengers.

You might want to consider Regent or Seabourn..... not that much more expensive when all things are considered.... and a pretty strong assurance that your fellow passengers will be a delight to dine and mingle with to a much higher degree.

Actually I find most of your comments not to be what I was thinking at all! I have been on other Mexican and Caribbean cruises and formal night for the most part was really nice and people were dressed according to dress code. Also I stated that the room service dining/cabin and crew were highlights...I didn't mention the food or the ship as being fabulous at all.

As for dining with a certain "type" of person on Regent or Seabourn..think you didn't get it there either. We like NCL and we like all sorts of passengers...rich/poor/young/old/quiet/loud, etc...doesn't matter. It's just that formal night on HAL was nothing like I thought it would be according to these boards.

[Hal&Rob]

[quote=mexico5;27276431]

But...just curious if this has happened to anyone before. It wasn't the end of the world...just weird. Our first sea day we sat out on our balcony (fantastic one at that!) and our neighbors (maybe you are on CC?:eek:) came out to tan on theirs too..butt naked...I mean nothing on the man or woman. I don't think they were Canadians as they were way too tanned (or should I say leathery) so maybe from Europe where it's hotter? Anyhoo...my DH and I vacation alot at All inclusives so we are used to seeing the man in the thong and the women that go topless...not a big deal...but I am not sure if they realized we (and how many others?) could see them.

Sooo! :confused:

[Joal]

My wife and I just came back from the NA Christmas cruise. It was a very enjoyable cruise on a beautiful ship. We too chose the "as you wish" dine option. We always asked for a table for two, and never had to wait more than fifteen minutes. The service as always outstanding and the food very good.
As for naked people on a balcony, we have never seen any. However, we have traveled extensively in Europe, where people are not so concerned about nudity, so we have had our share of naked people. To that I say, so what?

[mexico5]

[quote=mexico5;27276431]

But...just curious if this has happened to anyone before. It wasn't the end of the world...just weird. Our first sea day we sat out on our balcony (fantastic one at that!) and our neighbors (maybe you are on CC?:eek:) came out to tan on theirs too..butt naked...I mean nothing on the man or woman. I don't think they were Canadians as they were way too tanned (or should I say leathery) so maybe from Europe where it's hotter? Anyhoo...my DH and I vacation alot at All inclusives so we are used to seeing the man in the thong and the women that go topless...not a big deal...but I am not sure if they realized we (and how many others?) could see them.

Sooo! :confused:



Sooo...it's a little difficult to enjoy a tuna melt when the leathery parts are staring out at you! I tried turning my chair but I wanted to face the sun!

[Joal]

[QUOTE=Hal&Rob;27277410]

Sooo...it's a little difficult to enjoy a tuna melt when the leathery parts are staring out at you! I tried turning my chair but I wanted to face the sun!
I would think it is impossible to face the sun, eat the tuna melt, and watch the neighbors at the same time. HUMMM!

[CtheW0rld]

at least they weren't smokers...

[shandryl]

LMAO too Funny!! good one! ;)

[quote=mexico5;27277468]
I would think it is impossible to face the sun, eat the tuna melt, and watch the neighbors at the same time. HUMMM!

[Mary Ellen]

We too chose the "as you wish" dine option.This isn't an "option" on HAL. Everyone has it.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

WOW first off I have to say that on all our numerous cruises I have never encountered anyone out on their balcony that was nude. I have to admit that is a bit brave on their part even if they are nudest, which obviously they are. :D

OP I have to agree with you about dressing up on NCL. NCL gets such a bad rap all because they call themselves Free Style Cruising. I admit that on their Formal or Not Nights we saw far more people dressed up and if they were not dressed up they were dressed very nice. Now I know it has been a while since I have been on the Oosterdam but the dress could not possibly be nearly as bad as what we saw on Formal Nights on the Mariner of the Seas a few weeks ago. I was stunned to say the least, we knew dress would not be that dressy so DH actually left his Tux home and brought a dark suit, well Formal would have been a clean Golf Shirt that was not wrinkled, seriously you do not know how much we wished we were on the Oosterdam the whole week. The food quality was by far the worst we have ever had any where and the total manners of the passengers were just ...well let's just say I was not the least bit impressed with RCCL. It was not the cruise line for us.

I am sorry you did not enjoy the Oosterdam ( which over all is still my favorite ship) but I too love NCL and our Princess experience, well at the time I was not thrilled but after the Mariner experience it was great :D We just need to stay away from their low quality meats on Princess but everything else was pretty darn good in comparision.

[iriemon]

dress could not possibly be nearly as bad as what we saw on Formal Nights on the Mariner of the Seas a few weeks ago. I was stunned to say the least, we knew dress would not be that dressy so DH actually left his Tux home and brought a dark suit, well Formal would have been a clean Golf Shirt that was not wrinkled,

We had the same experiences on the Freedom of the Seas regarding the dress and the food. RCCL has definetly cut back on the food quality to pay for their new ships.

[Joal]

You can either go as you wish, or choose to have a set time and table. These are options. However, there are those who choose to have a designated time to dine, and then they OPT to show as they wish when they wish, thus creating an inconvinience to others who had previously OPTED the as you wish OPTION.

[rpach10115]

At least they weren't smoking!:eek:

Or, it would have been the end of the world!!!!!!!!

[maxout]

deleted

[SwissMyst]

Had the next door in the buff sun bathers also been eating a tuna melt from room service, they would have given a new definition to HAL's "as you wish" dining.

[esimon]

Wow - glad you all won't be on my next cruise LOL -- I don't want to see naked people from my balcony --- We did Eurodam and sat 2 often with no wait. Drinks were served many places all the time. Everyone dressed nicely for all nights of dinner -- Lots of dancing after dinner -- We had a great time -- To many people take offense on here for someone elses opinion. that is what these are -- opinions :D

[Mary Ellen]

.... inconvinience to others who had previously OPTED the as you wish OPTION.Still, As You Wish Dining is NOT an option. Some opt for open seating, some opt for fixed seating, and others are forced into open seating by HAL (but that is another thread). The only way around As You Wish Dining is to eat all meals off the ship - but even then, one is dining as they wish...

[Joal]

deleted

Wow - glad you all won't be on my next cruise LOL -- I don't want to see naked people from my balcony --- We did Eurodam and sat 2 often with no wait. Drinks were served many places all the time. Everyone dressed nicely for all nights of dinner -- Lots of dancing after dinner -- We had a great time -- To many people take offense on here for someone elses opinion. that is what these are -- opinions :D

Of course, and you know what they say about opinions...
Reading these post I have to laugh at the kind of things people complain about. We all should be more than happy we can afford to spend time on a ship doing nothing but having fun, drink and eat great food. There are those who always see their glass half full, and those who always see it half empty. Me, I am just happy to have a glass!

[Bill B]

We like to have an early afternoon martini (doesn't have to be happy hour) and we were hard pressed to find one open.
???... I've never been hard-pressed to find a bar open on any cruise ship. Maybe my 'alcodar' is just more fine tuned. ;)

[Joal]

Still, As You Wish Dining is NOT an option. Some opt for open seating, some opt for fixed seating, and others are forced into open seating by HAL (but that is another thread). The only way around As You Wish Dining is to eat all meals off the ship - but even then, one is dining as they wish...

I do not believe HAL forces anyone to have open seating. If you prefer "fixed" seating, make sure you book your cruise with plenty of time, and you will be able to choose your dining time. I have done it many times without any problems.

[bepsf]

At least they weren't smoking!:eek:

Or, it would have been the end of the world!!!!!!!!

At least not yet...
...it sounds like they were way past "Golden Brown" or even "Crispy Skinned" and were well on their way towards "Overcooked"
;)

[Ocean Dancer]

just my 2 cents, but it was also the naked couples cruise too, and it sounds as if they were trying to be discreet. they were on their own personal balcony.

[CaliforniaAC]

At least not yet...
...it sounds like they were way past "Golden Brown" or even "Crispy Skinned" and were well on their way towards "Overcooked"
;)

And if it was after Happy Hour, they may have also been "marinated":D

[mudscraper]

Speaking of nudity:

Man stands naked in living room window. Woman walks by. Sees man and calls police. Man arrested for exposing himself.

Woman stands naked in living room window. Man walking by looks at woman. He`s arrested for being a peeping tom. It just ain`t fair.:):)

[Bill S]

Still, As You Wish Dining is NOT an option. Some opt for open seating, some opt for fixed seating, and others are forced into open seating by HAL (but that is another thread). The only way around As You Wish Dining is to eat all meals off the ship - but even then, one is dining as they wish...

Mary Ellen: Bravo! Well said and totally agree: it is as HAL wishes you to dine.

[lorekauf]

I do not believe HAL forces anyone to have open seating. If you prefer "fixed" seating, make sure you book your cruise with plenty of time, and you will be able to choose your dining time. I have done it many times without any problems.
Oh thanks for letting us know that's how it works:rolleyes:. Some of us still work. I generally book all my cruises a year ahead of time. I had to cancel and rebook 2 of my cruises for 2011 because a change in jobs and now I'm forced into open seating. I'm going to try it and see if it will be ok. Just because you can book really far ahead don't assume everyone can. You know what happens when you assume.

Also, I can't understand why so many people feel the need to make nasty remarks to the OP. She has a right to her opinion.

[hpf]

Of course, and you know what they say about opinions...
Reading these post I have to laugh at the kind of things people complain about. We all should be more than happy we can afford to spend time on a ship doing nothing but having fun, drink and eat great food. There are those who always see their glass half full, and those who always see it half empty. Me, I am just happy to have a glass!

I agree, i'm just sooo happy to be cruising at any time. Wish I was sitting on deck now wiyh a glass in my hand and hearing the water lapping against the side of the ship and looking at the stars. Oh well, July will be here soon. Helen.

[Palm Beacher]

Who cares? Were they good looking? Were you peeking?

[Marge106]

I never understood why some people are so obsessed with what others wear. When I dress for formal night I dress for my wonderful DH, not for what the other passengers think. Why would someone else's dress matter to you.

[Boytjie]

I am trying to figure out how you could see tha they were naked without peeking around the divider.

[IRL_Joanie]

I am trying to figure out how you could see tha they were naked without peeking around the divider.

Peter, one of the posters said the reflection off the PlexiGlas, another that they looked down into the verandah below them.:eek:

Joanie

[lorekauf]

I just wonder why people think it's ok to go around naked on a cruise. After all, you're not at home. Usually the people that wander around that way are not the ones with the perfect bodies.

[Roscoe2]

My husband and I are very excited about our first cruise together 1/9/11 on celebrity Solstice. After much research I have come to realize that we are below the average cruising age. (we are in our mid-30's) We find nothing wrong with sun bathing au-natural especially on our own balcony. We take 2 vacations/year one with and one with out our younger children. When we vacation without our children the only thing we want to do is relax.
So.... if you will be on the celebrity solstice on 1/9 feel free too sun bath nude on your balcony, we have seen naked people before and please don't be offended if you see us naked in the privacy of our own balcony :)

[rpach10115]

OK, this is probably worse: Sitting on the balcony stark naked, eating a tuna melt whils one is smoking a cigarette and the other is smoking a cigar, coming back from dinner, where they wore shorts, t-shirts, and backwards hats. Just trying to add some humor.

OK, here comes my rant:

BTW, I've NEVER been able to "see around" my neighbors divider, unless I wanted to.

Also, who annointed the CC posters the "police" on cruise ship behavior. If you conduct yourself within the rules of the ship, who the hell cares what you wear, or don't wear on your balcony. If you don't want to see it, don't look.

I guess that is the NY mentality I have, but really, mind your own business.

If the Matri'd allows someone in the dinning room that is "questionably" attired, who the hell are we to say it's wrong. It's their vacation too. As long as they don't take away from your cruise enjoyment, who cares how the hell they are attired in the dinning room. Enjoy YOUR cruise and stop looking for things to whine about. The worst day on a cruise ship is better than the best day at work.

Please, will people just stop whining and looking for things to complain about. If I was a novice cruiser, these posts and topics would scare the hell out of me!

Thank you for indulging me.

[Himself]

Some of the comments on the naked couple were rather interesting and some even cute.
However, a Holland Ship is NOT a floating nudist camp--as far as I know. I think if people want to run around in the nude they should stay inside the state room.

[Boytjie]

Peter, one of the posters said the reflection off the PlexiGlas, another that they looked down into the verandah below them.:eek:

Joanie

My comment was directed at the OP who was talking about the neighbors (which generally means 'next door'). I don't ever recall seeing a reflection of another balcony from my own balcony whether next door or below me.

Now looking down at other balconies while standing at your own railing does allow you to see something.

[solocanadian]

Well at least he was on his stomach!:eek: This man just simply sat in his chair...note to self...wash off deck chair before using next time!

Oh, Pew!

[CruiseRev]

Who cares? Were they good looking? Were you peeking?

Well, another poster suggested they weren't "smokin'"

[brucory]

Nosey (and naked) neighbors,

A lesson here is that on some ships, it IS possible to see a reflection (in the plexiglass) into other neighbouring balconies. We have noticed this before, but you really have to LOOK to see it...

However, this is even more so at night, when it is dark outside, but light inside the cabin, and the curtains are not closed!!!

So beware!!! - Even if you are naked in your cabin, you may be noticed by a nosey neighbor peeking at the reflection in the plexiglass!!!

:D:D:D

[goose30]

A little tip. Place wet towel on the rail it will not reflect. Why wet? so it is heavy enough not to fly away.

By the way if you look down and see someone naked on their stomach, there is a prize for dropping something in the crack.

[2buggers]

Sooo...it's a little difficult to enjoy a tuna melt when the leathery parts are staring out at you! I tried turning my chair but I wanted to face the sun![/quote]


http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Yz8UrquOEG8/THVSiOyNaiI/AAAAAAAABIk/BtcRcLTRmjw/s320/prude.jpg (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Yz8UrquOEG8/THVSiOyNaiI/AAAAAAAABIk/BtcRcLTRmjw/s1600/prude.jpg)

[kyriecat]

Several years ago I was on my balcony watching some dolphins that were playing off the side of the ship. I was up against the rail, leaning over slightly to get a good look and a few pictures of them. As dolphins dropped back towards the stern of the ship, I turned that direction to continue watching/photographing them. I noticed that my neighbor, who was one of our tablemates for dinner, was on his balcony also watching them. I started to say hello and ask if he was enjoying the view when I realized that he wasn't wearing anything. He was around my father's age so I turned away quickly once I got over my initial shock. Dinner that night was interesting. My husband said that I would blush everytime I looked at our neighbor. The neighbor's wife thought is was funny and said she told him several times that he should put a robe on before going on the balcony.

[m steve]

when he turned over you might have seen his crown.:D

[iriemon]

A little tip. Place wet towel on the rail it will not reflect. Why wet? so it is heavy enough not to fly away.

By the way if you look down and see someone naked on their stomach, there is a prize for dropping something in the crack.

This could be the new version of the "Quarters" game!:eek:

[cruisemom42]

I just wonder why people think it's ok to go around naked on a cruise. After all, you're not at home. Usually the people that wander around that way are not the ones with the perfect bodies.

Some of the comments on the naked couple were rather interesting and some even cute.
However, a Holland Ship is NOT a floating nudist camp--as far as I know. I think if people want to run around in the nude they should stay inside the state room.

My goodness; these people were not wandering or running around the ship in the nude, they were on their own balcony. And at best, I have always found it requires some effort on my part to see others on their balconies.

[iancal]

We mind our own business. If someone wants topless sunbathing or wants to be nude on THEIR verandah it is of no concern to us. We would not do it, but these differences are what makes the world go round. Nor are we nosey nellies who want to peer into other peoples verandahs. Is this really such a big deal?

[lorekauf]

My goodness; these people were not wandering or running around the ship in the nude, they were on their own balcony. And at best, I have always found it requires some effort on my part to see others on their balconies.

Since I will have my first balcony on a cruise that I am leaving for today I don't have a point of reference as to how easy it is to see someone in the nude. I am stating here that at no time will I be nude on my balcony. I don't go out on my balcony nude at home either. I just don't understand why anyone would do it. When I was on the Oosterdam this year I was walking around the promenade deck. For some reason I happened to look up. There was an old guy spread eagled on the bed. Pretty sure he didn't know he could be seen. Thank God the guy was partially dressed because what was visable was TMI.

[Boytjie]

When I was on the Oosterdam this year I was walking around the promenade deck. For some reason I happened to look up. There was an old guy spread eagled on the bed. Pretty sure he didn't know he could be seen. Thank God the guy was partially dressed because what was visable was TMI.

Trying to figure out where this guy's cabin was that you could see into it from the Promenade deck?

[sapper1]

Since I will have my first balcony on a cruise that I am leaving for today I don't have a point of reference as to how easy it is to see someone in the nude. I am stating here that at no time will I be nude on my balcony. I don't go out on my balcony nude at home either. I just don't understand why anyone would do it. When I was on the Oosterdam this year I was walking around the promenade deck. For some reason I happened to look up. There was an old guy spread eagled on the bed. Pretty sure he didn't know he could be seen. Thank God the guy was partially dressed because what was visable was TMI.

I guess it would be safe to assume that you will have tan lines

[lorekauf]

Trying to figure out where this guy's cabin was that you could see into it from the Promenade deck?
Is it the promenade deck that you walk around on? I'm not as familiar with that class of ship as I am of the smaller ships. He was on the deck where the lifeboats were. This was not a balcony room. I think it was a "H" cat. room with the floor to ceiling windows.

[lorekauf]

I guess it would be safe to assume that you will have tan lines
I will for sure have tan lines:D.

[Boytjie]

Is it the promenade deck that you walk around on? I'm not as familiar with that class of ship as I am of the smaller ships. He was on the deck where the lifeboats were. This was not a balcony room. I think it was a "H" cat. room with the floor to ceiling windows.

On the Vistas the Promenade Deck is Deck 3 but it has no cabins, the life boats hang on Deck 4 and an H would mostly be obstructed by them. Not sure how you could look up a deck and see someone lying on their bed. (Not sayng it didn't happen, just trying to figure out how LOL)

[lorekauf]

On the Vistas the Promenade Deck is Deck 3 but it has no cabins, the life boats hang on Deck 4 and an H would mostly be obstructed by them. Not sure how you could look up a deck and see someone lying on their bed. (Not sayng it didn't happen, just trying to figure out how LOL)

I think you've answered your own question with what I've highlighted. I wouldn't bother relating the story if it wasn't true. People need to know that they can be seen. I will most likely end up in one of these rooms for my Apr.2011 cruise so I'm very aware of it.

[mexico5]

My husband and I are very excited about our first cruise together 1/9/11 on celebrity Solstice. After much research I have come to realize that we are below the average cruising age. (we are in our mid-30's) We find nothing wrong with sun bathing au-natural especially on our own balcony. We take 2 vacations/year one with and one with out our younger children. When we vacation without our children the only thing we want to do is relax.
So.... if you will be on the celebrity solstice on 1/9 feel free too sun bath nude on your balcony, we have seen naked people before and please don't be offended if you see us naked in the privacy of our own balcony :)

So it's not okay for you to be in the nude on your balcony when your kids are around....but you don't care if someone else's kids see you?

"Privacy of our own balcony"...that's just it...it's NOT as private as you think!

[mexico5]

I will for sure have tan lines:D.

Put me on "team tan lines" too:D

[bepsf]

So beware!!! - Even if you are naked in your cabin, you may be noticed by a nosey neighbor peeking at the reflection in the plexiglass!!!


ABNER!!!
http://www.enterstageright.com/archive/articles/0709/072709kravitzgladys.jpg :D

[m steve]

decided to sun naked on their balcony, I for one would not object. But if I was also naked as well they might.

[iancal]

It may be ok for you to be nude on your balcony if your children are around. Point is, it is up to YOU to decide this, not some other nosey nellie who wants to butt in and set the standard for you and for others.

In some parts of the world, it is very common to have family baths or saunas. Problem is in North America we don't get out much and tend to think that the rest of the world should hold to our standards of behavior. Fortunately, the world is not like that.

[solocanadian]

Nosey (and naked) neighbors,

A lesson here is that on some ships, it IS possible to see a reflection (in the plexiglass) into other neighbouring balconies. We have noticed this before, but you really have to LOOK to see it...

However, this is even more so at night, when it is dark outside, but light inside the cabin, and the curtains are not closed!!!

So beware!!! - Even if you are naked in your cabin, you may be noticed by a nosey neighbor peeking at the reflection in the plexiglass!!!

:D:D:D

MMMMM! Never thought of that. :eek:

[solocanadian]

Since I will have my first balcony on a cruise that I am leaving for today I don't have a point of reference as to how easy it is to see someone in the nude. I am stating here that at no time will I be nude on my balcony. I don't go out on my balcony nude at home either. I just don't understand why anyone would do it. When I was on the Oosterdam this year I was walking around the promenade deck. For some reason I happened to look up. There was an old guy spread eagled on the bed. Pretty sure he didn't know he could be seen. Thank God the guy was partially dressed because what was visable was TMI.

What bed could you see on the promenade deck? There are no staterooms on this deck. Do you mean to say he was stretched out on a deck chair???:confused:

[mexico5]

Have a great cruise Lorekauf!!

[Palm Beacher]

Based on the posts so far "you were peeking" ;)

[Bill S]

I do not believe HAL forces anyone to have open seating. If you prefer "fixed" seating, make sure you book your cruise with plenty of time, and you will be able to choose your dining time. I have done it many times without any problems.

You can believe what you want, but wait until it happens to you. It happened to us: we booked a cruise a year out, with early, upper dining CONFIRMED. After we boarded, we were told that due to a large group being onboard, there was no room in the upper level for us, and we were FORCED into open seating (or dining in the Lido). We did not enjoy the experience at all. When it comes to large group$, us peons don't matter to HAL.

[jcrandle]

Why has no one posted photos? I'm waiting for photos! (OK, just to be sure this really happened, but for no other reason.)

[lorekauf]

What bed could you see on the promenade deck? There are no staterooms on this deck. Do you mean to say he was stretched out on a deck chair???:confused:
Did you actually read my post? Clearly you didn't or you wouldn't be asking this question.

[lorekauf]

Have a great cruise Lorekauf!!
Thank you. Made it to LA barely. The airport was a zoo in Calgary. I've never seen it that bad. Got to the gate as my flight was boarding and I was there 2 hours before. It's all good now. Taking advantage of the free internet at the hotel. Good luck with this thread.

[vbmom87]

Oh thanks for letting us know that's how it works:rolleyes:. Some of us still work. I generally book all my cruises a year ahead of time. I had to cancel and rebook 2 of my cruises for 2011 because a change in jobs and now I'm forced into open seating. I'm going to try it and see if it will be ok. Just because you can book really far ahead don't assume everyone can. You know what happens when you assume.

Also, I can't understand why so many people feel the need to make nasty remarks to the OP. She has a right to her opinion.

You can go on a waiting list for fixed dining. You can also check when you board about the possibility of changing at that time. I do know I have read of many report of people who were successful with both of these options. Good luck!!

[lorekauf]

You can go on a waiting list for fixed dining. You can also check when you board about the possibility of changing at that time. I do know I have read of many report of people who were successful with both of these options. Good luck!!
Actually for my April cruise they weren't taking anyone else on the waitlist. 2 years ago I wouldn't have booked a cruise that I couldn't get traditional on. I've warmed up to the idea since. I love to spend extra time outside when going through the canal so I think it will work for me. If it doesn't I may ask on board once I do my Sept. cruise. I will also be trying open in Feb.

[timothy998]

At least not yet...
...it sounds like they were way past "Golden Brown" or even "Crispy Skinned" and were well on their way towards "Overcooked"
;)

And if they had been members of the Donner Party, would they have "tasted like chicken?"

[ricew001]

My husband said: are they ugly?
He said if so, arrest them and throw the book at them.
He said if not, don't rush to conclusion and stick your nose in other ppl's business.
LOL!
;-)

[rpach10115]

ABNER!!!
http://www.enterstageright.com/archive/articles/0709/072709kravitzgladys.jpg :D


This post is in the top ten of funniest posts ever!!!!!!!!:D:D
ROTFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!

[Typhoon1]

Nothing new. We've observed people having marital relations on balconies.

Was I offended? Not at all.

[COLLEYBERRY]

Nothing new. We've observed people having marital relations on balconies.

Was I offended? Not at all.

How did you know they were married.:D Sorry..:o

Personally if I had to choose between a naked balcony neighbor or a smoking balcony neighbor. I'd pick the" birthday suiter" every time..I can always avert my eyes... but I can't stop breathing

[ODECCIT]

How did you know they were married.:D Sorry..:o

Personally if I had to choose between a naked balcony neighbor or a smoking balcony neighbor. I'd pick the" birthday suiter" every time..I can always avert my eyes... but I can't stop breathing
Trying to turn this into smoking tread aren't you?

[COLLEYBERRY]

Absolutely not. In hind sight it was foolish post.

[mudscraper]

Nothing new. We've observed people having marital relations on balconies.

Was I offended? Not at all.
Husband and Wife arguing? Happens all the time.:)

[m steve]

What if they turned over?

[RedmondCruiser]

I thought that I saw the OP at Orient Beach sporting two cameras and a pair of binoculars. Hmmmmm

[Typhoon1]

How did you know they were married.:D Sorry..:o


Perhaps, I should say intimate relations.

[sail7seas]

:confused: Why does anyone have to be naked on their verandah? That is not a totally private space nor their personal homes. There is no reason for them to expect complete privacy. Are they exhibitionists? Crude and/or rude?

[kalliekae]

I have to say that we have never seen such awful dressed people on formal night or the other nights as we did on HAL. After reading these boards my DH brought a nice suit to wear and I brought a couple of black dresses and it was for nothing...although we quite enjoyed it and we got some nice formal pics taken. Honestly, the guests on NCL were much better dressed on "formal optional" night than on HAL's "formal night". Not sure if it was just this cruise or where we sailed out of or what but we have never seen SO many jeans, runners and sweatshirts! It usually doesn't bother us but we were expecting more after reading these boards. Someone did point out however that these boards make up such a tiny part of the passengers.


I'm glad that I am not the only one who experienced this. We just completed an RCCL cruise aboard the Oasis and people on that cruise dressed far nicer than on any HAL cruise I have been on. After being on strictly HAL cruises and reading this board, I honestly thought that the Oasis was going to be much more casual. How wrong I was!! It really is sad that formal nights are not adhered to more strictly on HAL. Plus the old argument that luggage restrictions make it difficult to bring formal clothes certainly had no impact on the 6000+ Oasis passengers. As you stated, even on non-formal nights, there were beautiful cocktail dresses and suits worn by many people on the ship. We love to dress up and always adhere to the formal night dress code. I just wish HAL would make the effort to enforce the dress code. JMO

[solocanadian]

Did you actually read my post? Clearly you didn't or you wouldn't be asking this question.

I clearly read your post. You referred to the Oosterdam and Promenade deck. This is Deck 3 on the "O" and there are no cabins on this deck. You were probably thinking of another cruise on an "S" or "R" class ship.

[MardiGras316]

I just got off the Noordam this morning. I was in cabin 8099 which bumps out. I could see on DOZENS of balconies, and dozens of balconies (and people in the ledo dining room) could see on my balcony if I was on the bumped out part. It was interesting to see people in the morning on their balconies oblivious to me. And I am not a creepy stalker gal either. I just saw lots of people up in the morning with crazy bedhead!

BTW, cabin 8099 on the Noordam is AMAZING! Very very large, some noise at night when they arrange the tables after the late night buffet. But yesterday morning I woke up in the middle of the night (I am a light sleeper) and I could smell bacon cooking above. AWESOME!

[Cruisin Kay D]

We always get balconies, and I don't really care what the adjoining people have on (or if they're naked). I don't look to see a neighbor UNLESS I am standing at the railing & they are also standing at the railing. I really don't understand being able to see them from the reflection. Don't recall seeing any reflections... But I will say that it's extremely rude to look AROUND the divider or through any crack in the divider!!!!

[tcook052]

Too bad we can't merge some of these HAL CC threads and have the naked cruisers get a bathrobe to wear. :D

[mexico5]

We always get balconies, and I don't really care what the adjoining people have on (or if they're naked). I don't look to see a neighbor UNLESS I am standing at the railing & they are also standing at the railing. I really don't understand being able to see them from the reflection. Don't recall seeing any reflections... But I will say that it's extremely rude to look AROUND the divider or through any crack in the divider!!!!

Of course I wasn't looking through any cracks...I was trying NOT to look at the cracks...if you get my meaning...

[mexico5]

I'm glad that I am not the only one who experienced this. We just completed an RCCL cruise aboard the Oasis and people on that cruise dressed far nicer than on any HAL cruise I have been on. After being on strictly HAL cruises and reading this board, I honestly thought that the Oasis was going to be much more casual. How wrong I was!! It really is sad that formal nights are not adhered to more strictly on HAL. Plus the old argument that luggage restrictions make it difficult to bring formal clothes certainly had no impact on the 6000+ Oasis passengers. As you stated, even on non-formal nights, there were beautiful cocktail dresses and suits worn by many people on the ship. We love to dress up and always adhere to the formal night dress code. I just wish HAL would make the effort to enforce the dress code. JMO

How true...from the bathrobes throughout the ship (and no I didn't see any in the dining room) to the type of dress worn at the MDR I was quite surprised. I had no idea HAL had such a casual type atmosphere. Speaking of bathrobes...we had to go to the immigration thing at 6:45AM for non US citizens and there were a few hundred guests there taking a seat and an older couple walked in (the last ones) in their bathrobes. This didn't bother me at all but the crowd sure chuckled!

[Stevedan]

How did the naked people know there were no kids around? I would have no problem with naked neighbors as long as I was not traveling with my kids. If you want to go almost nude the guy could wear a thong or his jockstrap. Women have many choices for skimpy swimwear.

[tip]

Personaly if I had to choose between a naked balcony neighbor or a smoking balcony neighbor. I'd pick the" birthday suiter" every time..I can always avert my eyes... but I can't stop breathing


Well said! And I don't think that this was a foolish post!;)

[Goldryder]

In regard to the buff passengers....

Back in 2008 I was aboard Costa Allegra in the Far East. Now don't get me wrong, if you got it then flaunt it...but sometimes you do have to ask yourselves if a person has actually looked at themselves in a mirror before stepping out in public.

On Allegra there was a lady who was in her late 70's or early 80's. Very skinny, I kind of thought that maybe she had lost alot of weight recently since the skin was quite saggy. Anyway this lady was wandering around the frying pan (aka the pool deck) in a lime green thong & string bikini top. There was literally NOTHING left to the imagination, the bikini was hanging off her, must have been a good two sizes too big.

For 14 days this lady wandered about the ship in this outfit during the day time & in the evening she wore what could only be described as granny frumpy.....from one extreme to the other.

Now don't get me wrong...living life to the full regardless of age is a wonderful thing, bit sometimes...maybe...a little common sense could be exercised perhaps.

It was like the mankini thing....fine if you have the body but if you don't...well you know what I mean :o

This lady was quite brave to wear the bikini....however when walking behind her, it wasn't a pleasant experience...and even less so when she bent over to get her book or paper off the lounger :eek:

I am easy going but sorry, that was a step too far imho.

[cruisemom42]

Reading the continuing responses on this thread, I'm surprised at how much consternation this has caused. Out of curiosity, is there any HAL rule about either topless sunbathing (anywhere on ship) and/or nudity on one's balcony?

Many other cultures do not have the same hangups about nudity that many Americans (yes I am one) seem to have. Europeans routinely swim or sun in the smallest of garments (and often go without even those); not just in the Med but even in Scandinavian countries. In Japan, nude bathing in onsen and hot springs is the norm, whatever one's age. I don't think anyone has documented yet any psychological harm that has come to children in any of these cultures from seeing others "au naturel".....?

It also strikes me as a bit humorous that people will post on these boards that others are "shallow" for judging people by their dress (on formal threads, for example), yet will criticize and make fun of others' choice of swimwear!

[Crazy Gramps]

I just wonder why people think it's ok to go around naked on a cruise. After all, you're not at home. Usually the people that wander around that way are not the ones with the perfect bodies.

This one I disagree with.
When I'm on a ship I am home.
This is where I liove for a number of days.

Have the beloved bride and I ever been naked on a balcony? You bet and lots more.
That's why we never book the stern balcony cabins. Go to the Lido pool and look down.

Happy New Year all.
Gramps

[topcop]

The problem I have with nude sunbathing in public is that some people really should never, ever take their clothes of in public. I mean there should be a law that some people should not be allowed to go naked in public.

I mean every time I visit Orient Beach I have to see whether they have passed such a law.

[lorekauf]

I clearly read your post. You referred to the Oosterdam and Promenade deck. This is Deck 3 on the "O" and there are no cabins on this deck. You were probably thinking of another cruise on an "S" or "R" class ship.
I said i looked up......that usually means a deck up..ie 4. Yes there are cabins on 4. Maybe you are thinking of a R or S class ship. I do not drink so much that i forget what ship that I am on.

[rpach10115]

Reading the continuing responses on this thread, I'm surprised at how much consternation this has caused. Out of curiosity, is there any HAL rule about either topless sunbathing (anywhere on ship) and/or nudity on one's balcony?

Many other cultures do not have the same hangups about nudity that many Americans (yes I am one) seem to have. Europeans routinely swim or sun in the smallest of garments (and often go without even those); not just in the Med but even in Scandinavian countries. In Japan, nude bathing in onsen and hot springs is the norm, whatever one's age. I don't think anyone has documented yet any psychological harm that has come to children in any of these cultures from seeing others "au naturel".....?

It also strikes me as a bit humorous that people will post on these boards that others are "shallow" for judging people by their dress (on formal threads, for example), yet will criticize and make fun of others' choice of swimwear!


It's not about what HAL allows, it's what the CC police want to whine and complain about on any certain day. Thery allow smoking, but there are thousands of threads on CC that pertain to CC members whining about smoking.:eek:
They allow "carry-on's" for soda/water/wine, but there are hundreds of threads of CC members whining about that.:eek:

This just happens to be the "whine" dujour. Let's complain about this today, tomorrow it will be another "allowed" activity that the CC members will complain about.:eek:

[Typhoon1]

I think it is a good time to close this thread.

Although, the mods will disagree with me.

[m steve]

but others like smoking are plonk.

[woody14h]

Absolutely not. In hind sight it was foolish post.


I guess "hind sight" is definitely appropriate for this thread!

[HoneyGV]

We mind our own business. If someone wants topless sunbathing or wants to be nude on THEIR verandah it is of no concern to us. We would not do it, but these differences are what makes the world go round. Nor are we nosey nellies who want to peer into other peoples verandahs. Is this really such a big deal?


Well, nobody has anything that any of us haven't seen before. Maybe a little more, maybe a little less, but what the hay??? That's why we book cabins with PRIVATE balconies.

You know what they say to do if you're going naked and don't want anyone to know it's you...put a bag on over your head!

I say...have fun and enjoy..as long as it's legal.;)

[Seavoyage]

Well, nobody has anything that any of us haven't seen before. Maybe a little more, maybe a little less, but what the hay??? That's why we book cabins with PRIVATE balconies.

You know what they say to do if you're going naked and don't want anyone to know it's you...put a bag on over your head!

I say...have fun and enjoy..as long as it's legal.;)

Too Funny!!! Love this post!!