13/02/2026 · WORLD · 1 min read
Sydney Shuttle Bans Bikinis, Introduces Towel-By-Law
A coastal bus operator says swimwear is now off the seats for cleanliness, offering towels as the new official middle layer between summer and upholstery.
A Sydney beach shuttle has introduced a no-bikini-on-seats rule, arguing it is protecting public fabric from ocean, sunscreen, and the existential damp.
The operator says it is not banning swimming, just insisting the journey home includes a towel, a T-shirt, or at least a dramatic sigh of responsibility.
The New Layering Policy
Passengers are now asked to comply with a “towel-by-law” that sets clear expectations for seat contact, humidity, and general civic decency.
The guidance lists approved buffering options:
- A towel (any size, any pattern, no debate).
- A dry T-shirt you regret but will use.
- A hoodie that smells like chips but counts.
The Summer Compromise
Regulars say the rule is fair in theory but fails to account for the urgency of escaping sand. Officials have promised a review after peak season, or once the seats stop feeling “like they have been to the beach without you.”
For more public-wetness policy, see: Thames Rebranded As Public Spa To Save Thames Water.
Editor’s note: The shuttle confirmed it will accept towels even if they are technically still wet.