When we look back at our nude cruise adventures over the years, the subject almost inevitably turns to the delicious food we’ve shared. We have tasted such a variety of culinary delights aboard ship, many of which we may not have experienced at home. Because of all the food choices, a cruise may not be the best place to be on a diet, even though the ship can accommodate any dietary requirements you may have – low carb, gluten-free, vegetarian, etc. because you will want to sample everything they have to offer. Our Big Nude Boat cruise on Carnival Pride in 2022 is no exception.

The Normandie dining room offers starter courses of prosciutto-wrapped melon, French onion soup, fresh green salads, and a juicy shrimp cocktail. Main courses range from pan-seared Tilapia with veggies to grilled flat-iron steak in three-peppercorn sauce with mac ’n cheese as a side dish. The Indian vegetarian dinner is always a great choice, with exotic seasonings and warm nan bread. If you can’t make up your mind, there is always the chef’s recommendation. If you’ve worked up an appetite in the gym or on the water slide, try a dessert such as Crème Brûlée, Baked Alaska, or everyone’s favorite – warm chocolate melting cake with ice cream. Dishes are often accompanied by entertainment in the form of dancing servers who welcome you to join in.

The Mermaid’s Grill on the lido deck is a buffet that offers many of the same dinner options as the main dining room. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served here with the added benefit of no clothing required. Also available for dining au naturel on lido are Guy’s Burger Joint with the most luscious burgers on the high seas – best veggie burger ever – as well as the Blue Iguana Cantina with freshly made tacos and burritos. Regardless of the hour, authentic hand-tossed pizza and soft-serve ice cream is always available on the lido deck.

If you’re in the mood for a special dinner, for a nominal fee there are several specialty restaurants aboard. Located at the top of the ship, David’s Steakhouse does not disappoint. Smoked oysters served under a glass cloche, escargots, beef carpaccio, colossal shrimp, and lobster bisque are just for starters. Choices of surf and turf, classic porterhouse steak, grilled sea bass, or tender lamb chops are a few of the main courses. If you are in the mood for sushi, Bonsai Sushi provides the best sashimi, nigiri, and specialty sushi rolls outside of San Francisco. Craving a specialty coffee? You’ll find lattes, espresso, and cappuccino along with mouth-watering muffins at the Piazza Cafe.

All of the baked items from loaves of bread to desserts and specialty dishes are prepared daily aboard the ship. The way the food is prepared is fascinating, and if you can reserve a spot at the Chef’s Table, you’ll learn much more about the process. With only a dozen other lucky passengers, you’ll start with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by a tour to see the galley in operation. You’ll also experience a sumptuous multi-course dinner hosted by the Master Executive Chef with many items not found on the regular menu. Passengers have raved about the Chef’s Table and space is limited so make your reservation early at Guest Services once onboard the ship.

Some Fun Facts, on average the ship can serve 1400 lbs. of prime rib, 7000 lbs. of chicken, 1,210 bottles of wine, and 230 liters of vodka during one cruise. We are counting down the days when we can savor all the delicious choices and partake in the creativity that is put into each dish; as well as the way the food is presented by the best team of waiters and waitresses – all aboard Carnival Pride.