Carnival Cruises has issued a warning to passengers who packed revealing bikinis for their South Pacific voyage. Travelers aboard the Carnival Splendour were surprised to receive a letter upon arrival at their first port, announcing a ban on certain swimwear including G-string bikinis and mankinis.
Dress Code Enforcement on Lifou Island
The ship, which departed Sydney on Tuesday, 2 June, carries up to 3,012 guests on an eight-night South Pacific itinerary. Before reaching the first port—the picturesque island of Lifou in New Caledonia—passengers received a notice from the ship’s master, Eduardo Ferrone, outlining the dress code expectations.
Lifou, one of the largest Loyalty Islands, is known for its limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs. It is also a tribal island with conservative traditions. The letter advised travelers to avoid wearing revealing clothing such as two-piece bikinis, G-strings, monokinis, and mankinis while on the island. Topless sunbathing was also strictly prohibited. These rules applied not only to beaches but to all public areas including markets, churches, and other spaces.
Carnival’s Official Guidelines
Carnival’s website clarifies the policy: “We kindly ask guests to respect the local culture and rules in the ports we visit.” It specifically mentions Lifou as a destination where dressing more conservatively is required. The site adds: “Some destinations, such as Lifou, which is a tribal island, are populated by proud indigenous people whose culture is based on respect, and in many cases are highly religious.”
The cruise line recommends that visitors opt for traditional one-piece or full-piece swimsuits instead of bikinis or monokinis. Carnival warned that failing to respect local customs could jeopardize the cruise line’s ability to continue including Lifou on future itineraries.
Mixed Reactions from Passengers
The dress code sparked debate on Reddit, with passengers expressing varied opinions. One commenter said: “Once you get off the ship you are no longer ‘on a cruise’. Respect the local customs, cover up. If you don’t like it stay on the ship and sit by the pool.” Another added: “It’s not new, same rules applied years ago when I visited. Travel to experience different things. If you can only tolerate places exactly like home, stay home.”
However, some disagreed. One person argued that no one should “policy women’s bodies” and stated: “I would stay on the boat there and keep the money to myself!”
