There are many codes in cruise culture: “alpha” codes to signal onboard emergencies, numeric codes printed on your keycard to represent your cabin number, and even codes for the names of the ships themselves. But perhaps no code receives as much attention as the pineapple and what it represents, especially when it is upside down.
What do upside-down pineapples mean when you see them on a cruise ship? Read on to learn more about their hidden message.
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What does an upside-down pineapple mean on a cruise?
When I think of pineapples, I associate them with all things tropical – especially pina coladas by the pool. But for people who are swingers (couples who switch partners for the purpose of having physical relationships), upside-down pineapples serve as a subtle way to signal that they are part of that lifestyle, making it easier for potential partners to find them . .
Where can I see upside-down pineapples on cruise ships?
Reverse pineapple indicators can be subtle (think pineapple sunglasses or nail art) or more in-your-face in the form of tattoos, cabin door decorations and of course clothing – everything from swimsuits and trunks to pants and button-down shirts.
Are there swingers cruises?
Yes. There are several companies – including Bliss Cruise, Temptation Cruises and Desire Cruises – that charter ships for the purpose of organizing swinger cruises exclusively for people into this lifestyle. These types of sailings often include spirited entertainment, workshops and even games rooms, in addition to regular cruise activities and port visits.
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Although nude cruises are a different type of chartered trip, some swinger cruises are clothing optional.
What else should I know?
Seeing an upside-down pineapple on a cruise doesn’t always mean someone is a swinger. In some cases, pineapples are simply a symbol of hospitality, especially in the South and Hawaii.
So if you are traveling from Galveston, Texas; Mobile, Alabama; or one of Florida’s many ports, or if you’ve booked a cruise in Hawaii, think twice. Pineapple on someone’s clothes could mean that he or she liked the shirt, shorts or swimsuit he or she is wearing.
The bottom line is that you should exercise discretion in determining the significance of a pineapple when you see it in the wild – or on a cruise ship.
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