Carnival issues warning to passengers visiting Lifou, New Caledonia, reminding them to dress appropriately
Cruise ships could stop visiting a popular destination if passengers do not follow this rule.
Aussie cruise passengers have been given an ultimatum: follow the rules or accept the consequences.
Passengers on an eight day cruise on board Carnival Splendor were travelling around the South Pacific when the warning was issued.
The day before arriving in the first port destination, the 3012 passengers on board received a letter from the ship’s master, Eduardo Ferrone.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.He warned them to wear “very modest” swimwear in Lifou, New Caledonia, or future visits could be jeopardised.
“To observe the local customs of the island, a respectful dress code is essential,” Mr Ferrone wrote in a letter that was later posted on Facebook.
“Swimwear should only be worn at the beach or by a pool and should be very modest in nature.
“G-strings, thongs, monokinis or mankinis should not be worn (even on the beach) and topless sunbathing is also not permitted at any time.”
The letter included a reminder to guests that “casual clothing” was required for visiting churches and marketplaces and that swimwear was not appropriate.
“As a visitor to the island, please respect the wishes of local residents,” it read.
“Non-compliance could severely restrict or compromise our ability to keep the island as part of our future Carnival holiday itineraries.”
On the cruise line’s website, Lifou is listed as an example of a location that is a “tribal island” which is “populated by proud indigenous people whose culture is based on respect” and is “highly religious”.
Carnival encourages guests to respect local customs and cultures in all ports it visits.
While the no-bikini warning may not be new, some passengers are still not adhering to the dress code, one person told Cruise Passenger.
“They did not cover up. It was rude and disrespectful and Carnival should not have allowed them off the ship dressed like that. It will ruin it for everyone if people don’t respect the culture,” they said.
Another cruiser suggested Carnival notified guests before boarding, to make sure they have alternative swimwear packed.
“We were given a letter with the rules but I would bet that the young woman wearing the g-strings wouldn’t have bought any other swimmers. They need to tell people prior to sailing. I know my Daughter only owns g-strings and would have needed to buy a pair of swimmers just for the trip,” they said.
The letter was issued just days after Carnival reminded passengers that camouflage clothing could not be worn at some ports, including Jamaica.
Carnival Splendor is scheduled to return to Lifou on June 15.
