What does an upside down pineapple mean on a cruise ship?
An upside down pineapple on a ship’s stateroom door, is a sign that the cabin occupants could be swingers or wife-swappers and are open to meeting other couples for some fun!
Now if that upside down pineapple meaning comes as a bit of a shock to you, you are not alone.
Until recently, I didn’t know either. Then I just happened to ask a fellow cruiser one day about her upside down pineapple T-shirt.
Oh boy did I get a red face LOL. The conversation around the dinner table in the Main Dining Room was a hoot that night!
Who knew that this symbol has a hidden meaning that most people are not aware of, and it’s related to the world of swinging? I certainly didn’t!
Now remember, while some genuine swingers might use the upside down pineapple to indicate their interest in swinging, many folks might be oblivious or use it as a joke to confuse their fellow passengers. Those pineapples on cruise doors might even be a prank being played on oh-so-sweet Granny Mabel.
So, if you see an upside-down pineapple badge on a stateroom door, remember that it may not mean what you think it does.
Now, at what point did the stars somehow collide and make an upside down pineapple a symbol for swinging? Well, let’s find out. It turns out it’s not just Pineapples we need to be aware of.
So what does upside down pineapple mean on a Cruise Ship?
History of the Upside Down Pineapple Symbol
How did pineapples become a symbol of swinging? Well, the upside-down pineapple has a long and interesting history, dating back to colonial times.
In 18th-century Europe, pineapples were a rare and exotic fruit that was often used as a symbol of wealth and hospitality. They were so rare, in fact, that they were often rented out for parties and events. When a host wanted to show off their wealth and hospitality, they would display a pineapple prominently in their home.
As time went on, the pineapple became more widely available and less of a status symbol. However, it still remained a symbol of hospitality and welcome. In the early 1900s, pineapples were often used in advertisements for hotels and resorts, to convey a sense of luxury and hospitality.
Fast forward to the last decade, and the upside-down pineapple has taken on a new meaning in the industry. The exact origin of how it did so it unknown.
The Upside Down Pineapple as a Swinging Symbol
If you’re a little innocent like me that has clearly lived a sheltered life, you were probably surprised to learn what an upside-down pineapple meant. It turns out that there are a number of secret codes and symbols that swingers use to identify each other.
What is Swinging?
Swinging is where consenting couples engage in sexual activities with other couples or individuals. Swingers are often married or in committed relationships and are looking to spice up their sex lives by exploring new sexual experiences with others.
Now let’s be very clear here. Although I am writing this cruise tips article, I have no interest in swinging. And I don’t have a problem with anyone that is. Each to their own. But if you see me on your next vacation, you have ZERO invitation to stick your hand up my kilt, even if I am sipping on a pineapple cocktail wearing a pineapple shirt LOL
How Did the Upside Down Pineapple Become Associated with Swinging?
Apparently, the original meaning of the upside-down pineapple as a swinging symbol are unclear, but it is believed the rise in popularity of the symbol started started in the 1970s. According to Men’s Health Magazine, the symbol was used by swingers to identify and advertise to each other at grocery stores. If you saw someone with an upside-down pineapple in their shopping cart, it was a sign that they were a swinger or part of the swinging community.
Today, the upside-down pineapple is still used as a symbol of swinging, but it has evolved to include other meanings. According to Paired Life, the symbol can also mean that the couple is open to having a threesome or that they are hosting a swinger party.
Other Swinging Symbols
What, there’s more!
Shock horror, it turns out the upside-down pineapple is not the only symbol that swingers use to identify each other.
Apparently, some women will wear toe rings or ankle bracelets to signal that they are swingers. Some swingers also use the letters “LS” (which stands for “lifestyle”) on their clothing, a tattoo, or jewelry to identify themselves to other swingers.
Are There a Lot of Swingers on a Cruise that Use The Upside-Down Pineapple Symbol?
If you’re wondering whether there are a lot of swingers on a ship, the answer is: “Who knows”. I don’t think counting pineapple cabin decorations or upside down pineapple T-shirts is a scientific method either.
While there are no official statistics on the prevalence of swingers on the high seas, it is safe to say that there will no doubt be a few amongst your fellow passengers.
Cruises offer a unique opportunity for swingers to meet and connect with other like-minded individuals. With thousands of people on board, it’s easy to see why they are a popular destination for swingers.
How Do Cruise Swingers Identify Each Other For Sex? Do They Wear Pineapple Print Clothing?
The upside-down pineapple is a discreet way for swingers to signal that they’re looking for a partner swap. Of course, now that you and I know about it, it’s not so discreet is it? LOL I mean many people wear pineapple prints, how do we know if they are wearing it as a secret symbol or not?
If you see someone wearing an upside-down pineapple insignia, it could mean they’re actively seeking out other swingers. And if you see that upside-down pineapple on someone’s stateroom door, it could be an invitation to join a swinger party. Or it could mean they just like pineapples and do not necessarily identify as swingers.
In addition to the upside-down pineapple motif, there are other symbols and codes that swingers use to identify each other.
For example, a black ring on the right hand can indicate that someone is a swinger, as can a certain type of ankle bracelet.
If you are looking for a conversation starter on a cruise ship, this is sure to work. Nudge nudge wink wink. Say no more.
Other Upside Down Pineapple Decor on Cruise Ships
I’ve already talked about the upside down pineapple on cabin doors as a secret code for swinging. But it doesn’t end there.
Upside Down Pineapple Clothing on Cruise Ships
In addition to the sign on the stateroom door, swingers may also wear upside-down pineapple clothing or accessories to discreetly signal their interest in wife-swapping or that they are looking for a swinger party.
Women may wear anklets or toe rings with a pineapple charm. Men may wear pineapple-printed shirts or hats. These subtle hints allow swingers to identify each other without drawing attention from non-swingers.
What about wearing normal pineapples on clothing?
Before you start gathering up all your pineapple-decorated clothes for the charity store. Or indeed head off to your local store to buy some more. Let’s be sensible for a minute.
The pineapple is used as a popular symbol of hospitality and welcome, and many people wear pineapple-themed clothing or accessories without any connection to the swinger lifestyle.
One of our friends absolutely loves pineapples and has lots of clothing with pineapples and stuff around her place featuring pineapples. She even has a pineapple ornament on her front porch. When I found out about the upside down pineapple you can imagine the amount of friendly good-humored ribbing we gave her. Did she get rid of her clothing? Did she feel uncomfortable? Absolutely not. In fact, she keeps watching to see if she gets any knowing winks at the local supermarket.
Remember it’s important to respect other people’s lifestyle and privacy and not make assumptions based on their appearance or decorations. If you’re not interested in the swinger lifestyle, simply ignore the upside-down pineapple and enjoy your cruise.
"If don't mean a thing if they ain't got that swing" 😉 If You Know You Know. Cute upside down pineapple cosmetic bag.
Other Symbols and Codes on Cruise Stateroom Doors That Might Be Associated With Swinging
Apart from the upside-down pineapple, there are other funny symbols and codes that you may see on cruise stateroom doors. These symbols and codes are used to communicate certain messages to other passengers on the ship. Here are a few of them:
The Black Ring
The black ring on one finger is a symbol that is used by swingers to identify themselves to other like-minded people. If you see a black ring on a cruise stateroom door, it could mean that the occupants of that room are interested in swinging. However, it is important context to note that not everyone who wears a black ring on a wedding is a swinger, so it is best to approach with caution.
The Door Knocker
The door knocker is another symbol that is used by swingers to identify themselves. However, just like with the black ring, not everyone who has a door knocker on their door is a swinger.
Cruise Door Decorations and Magnets
Magnet decorations are a popular way to personalize your cruise stateroom door. You can find a wide variety of magnet decorations online, including ones that feature your favorite cruise line, your favorite destination, or even your favorite drink package. Some popular magnetic door decorations include:
- Pineapple Magnet: If you search for cruise ship magnets on Amazon it won’t be long until you see a pineapple magnet. However, if you don’t want to attract any unwanted attention, it might not be the best choice.
- Drink Package Magnet: Boozers Unite! Yes, believe it or not, some folk like to tell everyone they have the drinks package. Although surely their nightly stagger down that long corridor gives it away anyway? LOL
- Carnival Funnel Personalized Magnet Decoration: This one actually looks really cool. The iconic Carnival whale tail funnel with a space to write your name.
Overall, there are many symbols and codes that you may see on cruise stateroom doors. While some of them are innocent and just for fun, others may have a deeper meaning. It’s important to be aware of these symbols and codes so that you can avoid any unwanted attention and have a fun and enjoyable cruise vacation.
Heavy duty Upside down Pineapple Cabin door magnet. Can be hung in any direction. Hang it right way up for "Do not disturb" or upside down for...well let's leave it there shall we LOL
The Awkward Interactions and Misunderstandings that Can Arise
Displaying an upside down pineapple on your cruise stateroom door could lead to some awkward interactions and misunderstandings. Here are some scenarios that you might encounter:
What Happens if You Accidentally Display the Upside-Down Pineapple?
You might not even be aware of the significance of the pineapple symbol, and you could have accidentally displayed it on your stateroom door.
If someone approaches you and asks about the pineapple, you can explain that you didn’t know what it meant and that it was just a decoration. You can then remove the pineapple or turn it the right way up.
Or you could just run away in horror LOL
Be Careful Before You Go Knocking! It could be a joke
An upside down pineapple could be a joke or a prank. Before you go knocking on their door, make sure that you are certain of their intentions. Poor Granny Mabel could be the victim of a fun prank by her Grandkids. She could be in for either a shock or a fun time LOL
What if You Encounter a Swinger on Your Cruise?
If you do encounter a swinger on your cruise, remember that they are just like any other guest on the ship. They are there to enjoy themselves and have a good time. Everybody has a different lifestyle and who are we to judge or be prudish? Anyway, introduce them to Granny Mabel and see what happens LOL
How to Respond if Someone Asks About Your Pineapple Decor
If someone asks you about your pineapple decor, be honest with them. You can explain that it is just a decoration and that you were not aware of its significance. If they are swingers, they will understand and appreciate your honesty. If they are not swingers, they will probably just be curious.
If I have a Cocktail in a Pineapple or Pineapple-shaped glass will people think I am a Swinger?
No, having a cocktail in a real pineapple tropical fruit or pineapple-shaped glass does not mean you are a swinger.
It is a commonly used decoration on cruise ships and is often used to serve tropical drinks. So, enjoy your cocktail, and don’t worry about what others might think.
Upside Down Pineapple FAQ
Here are some common questions and answers about the significance of the upside-down pineapple symbol on a cruise ship.
What does upside down pineapple mean on a cruise ship?
The upside-down pineapple is often associated with swinging or the practice of inviting others to join in intimate activities on the cruise. While historically linked to the swinger community, its true meaning can vary. Some say it’s a mere myth, while others claim it signifies a willingness to engage in non-traditional relationships. Ultimately, the interpretation depends on the individual.
Is an upside down pineapple the only symbol used by swingers on a cruise ship?
No. Other symbols may include wearing certain colors or jewelry or displaying other decorations in their staterooms.
Are all upside-down pineapples on a cruise ship a sign of swinging?
No, not all upside-down pineapples on a cruise ship are a sign of swinging. Some people may simply use the pineapple as a decorative element in their stateroom without any knowledge of its swinging connotations.
Should I be worried if I see an upside-down pineapple on a cruise ship?
No, of course not. Swinging is a consensual activity between adults, and it is not illegal. They are just normal people with different lifestyles who are having fun.
Are there any other cruise ship decorations that are associated with swingers?
Yes, there are other cruise ship decorations that are associated with swingers. Flamingos are another popular symbol used by swingers to indicate their presence on a cruise ship. What does a flamingo mean sexually? We wrote a whole article on it! Other decorations, such as certain types of flowers or seashells, may also be used by swingers to identify each other.
Can I ask someone if they are a swinger if I see an upside-down pineapple on their stateroom door?
No. Swinging is a private activity, and people who engage in it may not want to discuss it with strangers. It is best to respect their privacy and avoid making assumptions about their lifestyle based on a symbol on their door. Unless of course, you are looking to get into that lifestyle yourself.
Now You Know the Meaning Of An Upside-Down Pineapple
So there you have it – the secret upside down pineapple meaning. You’re now part of the private club that is in the know LOL
The upside-down pineapple sign on a cruise stateroom door has a significant meaning in the world of adult fun and swingers. While it may seem like a harmless decoration to some, it is a signal to others that the room is open to certain adult activities.
For those specifically looking for a swingers cruise or lifestyle cruise, I am sure there are many options available if you go look for them.
So the next time you are on a cruise. Watch out for that little upside down pineapple. Now that you are in on the secret, you can give the owner a nod and a knowing wink 😉 Or perhaps not.
So what strange symbols have you spotted on cruise ships? Have you had a knock on your cabin door? Have you played a prank on Granny Mabel? Let us know in the comments below!
Heavy duty Upside down Pineapple Cabin door magnet. Can be hung in any direction. Hang it right way up for "Do not disturb" or upside down for...well let's leave it there shall we LOL
To bad cruise line won’t do question and answer sheet prior to going. That way if you allow them to they might be able to introduce or get you in contact with couples.