Nude cruise launched by tour operator

A London-based tour operator is searching for 22 bold holidaymakers to strip off for a seven-night naked cruise.

eWaterways, which specialises in river and coastal cruises, will run its first cruise for naturists in August 2011, exploring the Croatian coastline.

Highlights on the £500 ($A807) holiday include a visit to Rab, often described by travel agents as “the island of love”, and a trip to Zadar – home to the famous Zadar Sea Organ.

eWaterways claims to be the first company to offer nudist cruising in the Adriatic.

“Naturist holidays are popular and Croatia has a lot of nudist beaches – so it's a great match,” said a spokeswoman. “Passengers will get undressed for swimming and sunbathing, but will be clothed for dinner.”

The company said it expects the cruise to appeal to a variety of European nationalities – but particularly Germans, as they are “really into naturism”.

It added that most of its customers are in their mid-40s.

The itinerary also includes stops at the islands of Molat, Olib and Mali Losinj, the medieval city of Cres, and the fishing village of Volosko.

The “intimate” ship features a bar, a spacious sun deck and a small restaurant, which will be serving traditional Croatian cuisine.