black cruise 2024 price

Festival At Sea, the  Black Cruise group photo on deck ; (c) Blue World Travel

Black Cruises

For first-time cruisers or infrequent cruisers, consider the following “ Cruising 101 Tips .”

Cruise Line Operators : Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Holland America, Celebrity, and many others own very large cruise ships for multi-day journeys. They follow strict onboarding & offboarding schedules, so be timely. Big Cruise Line Operators are required to follow Cruise Ship Law which is a bit convoluted because the ports of call in so many nations have different laws. The big brands do, however, attempt to follow high sanitary and safety standards. If something is not right in your room, report it to the Cruise Line Operator staff. Some Cruise Line Operators include one-day excursion activities on an island they own.

Cruise Group Operators : The groups listed below organize themed cruises for groups, in this case, Black Cultural Cruises. Some cruises take up a quarter, half, or all of a ship big cruise ship. Other Black Cultural Cruises may have groups of 100-200. The largest Cruise Group Operators have staff to help your journey be more comfortable or better informed. They also tend to have the best entertainment. Only Cruise Group Operators can answer questions about their pricing and services.

Shore Excursion Operators Independent operators who arrange dining, shopping, cultural tours, snorkeling, and other activities. Their quality and pricing vary. In the Passenger Welcome pitch & brochures, Cruise Line Operators will provide extensive lists. Some have special arrangements with local businesses and receive a commission on sales from tourists in their group. The largest and oldest Cruise Group Operators sometimes have connections with Shore Excursion Operators too. Focus on the Price-Value of the shore excursions you want.

Busiest Domestic & International Cruise Ports The busiest cruise ports typically have more amenities. From America’s Lower 48 states to the Caribbean, Mexico & Alaska consider excursions from Port Canaveral on Space Coast, Miami , Port Everglades Fort Lauderdale , Galveston , New York & New Jersey , New Orleans , Tampa , Seattle , Los Angeles , San Diego , and Baltimore . If cruising to the Southern Caribbean consider excursions from Puerto Rico or St. Thomas USVI . In Europe, consider excursions from Barcelona, Civitavecchia, Southhampton, and Marseille.

Packing for a Cruise      TSA ID Requirements      Hurricane Status      Travel Insurance Pros & Cons

Established Black Cruises

Experience White Night Deck Party on Festival At Sea; (c) Blue World Travel

Festival At Sea PORTS: Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas & St. Maarten SHIP: Celebrity Reflection DATES: 8 Nights from July 13-21, 2024 (SOLD OUT, get on the Wait List) WEBSITE: https://www.festivalatsea.com ITINERARY: In 1992, 31 years ago, Blue World Travel launched the first African American cultural cruise program — Festival at Sea (FAS). Today, FAS welcomes about 3,000 passengers from around the world to celebrate a curated Black culture experience that honors the essence and traditions of the African American diaspora. Some signature events include an African Attire Night, the UNCF Bachelor Auction, annual DJ and Comedian competitions, Stomp The Deck Step Show and White Night Deck Party. FAS curates the whole itinerary with activities for every type of passenger – including Speed Dating, Gospel Brunch, Worship Service, Bible Study, Bid Whist, Dominoes, daily Dance & Fitness classes,, African-American Idol, Urban Ballroom Dancing, Family Feud, Jewelry Raffle Giveaway, 2-on-2 Basketball Tournament, Renewal of Wedding Vows and much more. Not to be forgotten, every year FAS provides top name entertainment. Past acts have included, Charlie Wilson, Ledisi, Kem, Jazzy Jeff, Slick Rick, Bill Bellamy, Babyface, Cedric the Entertainer, Anthony Hamilton, Fantasia, Faith Evans, Zapp Band, Kirk Franklin, Keith Sweat, Musiq Soulchild, Dru Hill, Gary Owen, Mary Mary, En Vogue, Gladys Knight, DL Hughley, Babyface, Tamia, Teddy Riley and many more. Join their mailing list to ensure getting first announcements on their next sailing. Because once you go, then you know!

Friends of Festival at Sea – French River Cruise PORTS: Arles, Avignon, Rivers, Tournon, Lyon & Paris in France SHIP: AMA Christina DATES: August 22 – September 1, 2024, includes a Free 3-night Post-Cruise in Paris WEBSITE: https://www.festivalatsea.com/xfrance2024/ ITINERARY: If you are looking for more explorative travels, Festival at Sea has an alternative program called Friends. In 1998, Blue World Travel created Friends to help passengers expand their horizons without sacrificing the culture and fun community they had created with FAS. In 2024, they will be collaborating with AmaWaterways to bring their tagline “Cruising with An African-American Twist” to this Soulful Epicurean French River experience onboard the award-winning AMA Kristina. The ship features a walking track, fitness room and bicycles for in-port exploration, a pool with swim-up bar, and specialty restaurants with multi-course dinners made from the fresh local ingredients paired with hand-selected wine and beer or soft drinks. Sail from Arles along the Rhone River through the South of France while you enjoy a superior standard of service, gourmet dining, fine wines, and premium spirits. Take in culture from onboard and on shore. Enjoy a variety of experiences exclusive to this itinerary such as guided tours showcasing jazz, food, win and captivating World War II history all while shining a light on Black culture and history. Festival at Sea provides entertainment from comedian and host Damon Williams, their DJ Al “Your Pal,” dance instructor Wilber McZeal and other signature events and activities from FAS. Check them out and see why you get much more traveling with Friends.

Friends of Festival at Sea will also be exploring the Allure of Asia sailing on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer in 2025 from February 5th-19th visiting Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. See https://www.festivalatsea.com/friends2025/

Capital Super Cruise A spin-off cruise from the Capital Jazz Concert in the Washington-Baltimore metro area PORTS: Puerto Rico, Tortola BVI, St. Croix USVI, St. Maarten/St. Martin DATES: January 15-22, 2023 ITINERARY: Entertainment includes concerts, theme parties, DJ jam sessions, contests, dancing, Open Mic, workshops, card games, karaoke, films, golf tournament, fitness classes

Aventura Latin Dance Cruise Get your Latin Dance groove on with a ship take-over in the Caribbean DATES: Febraury 3-7, 2023 and watch here for the 2024 date PORTS: Miami, Cuba, and the Bahamas ITINERARY: Features Day & Night Dance Parties, great dance workshops and watch world-class shows in Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Zouk, Kizomba, Reggaeton, Hip-Hop, Merengue & more!

Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage Cruise “Party with a Purpose” in the Caribbean with Tom Joyner and friends PORTS: Fort Lauderdale, Cozumel Mexico, Grand Cayman, Falmouth Jamaica DATES: May 20-27, 2023 PAST ITINERARY: Entertainment includes concerts, theme parties, DJ jam sessions, contests, dancing, Open Mic, workshops, card games, karaoke, films, fitness classes

Love and Harmony Cruise A medium size cruise group that emphasizes friendship and good times harmony DATES: April 4-9, 2023 PORTS: Fort Lauderdale, Ocho Rios, Nassau ITINERARY: Includes Live Concerts day & night, meet the performers, parties throughout the ship, plus Roots and Afrobeat music

Grown and Sexy Cruise Calls itself the “Biggest Party at Sea” and you can’t blame them for trying PORTS: Miami, Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas, Nassau, DATES: May-26-29, 2023 ITINERARY: Includes 1 Dinner at a specialty restaurant; Events include Theme Parties, the “SEXYFEST” Island beach party on Great Stirrup Caye, the Nassau “WE TURN UP” party, comedy show, karaoke, game shows, contests

Jamrock Reggae Cruise Jamrock Productions invites you to take a journey to Jamaica PORTS: Miami, Falmouth Jamaica, Ocho Rios Jamaica DATES: December 4-9, 2023 ITINERARY: Experience top-tier Reggae artists as they perform in multiple venues on the ship. In addition, there will be sound systems blazing the vibes all day and all night

Smooth Jazz Cruise Its like a mega-Jazz concert at sea. After the music, enjoy up-close meet-ups with Jazz greats DATES: 1/25/2024-2/01/2024 and 2/01/2024-2/08/2024 PORTS: Miami, Aruba, Curacao ITINERARY: An line-up of nightly performances by Marcus Miller, Boney James, Alonzo Bowden, Jeffrey Osborne, Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Rick Braun, Norman Brown, Mindi Abair, Richard Elliot, Peter White, Vincent Ingala, DW3 and more

Soul Train Cruise Official cruise of the legendary Soul Train TV show PORTS: Fort Lauderdale, Tortola BVI, St. Maarten DATES: January 23-February 3, 2024 ITINERARY: An incredible line-up of nightly Soul, Funk, and R&B performances by The Temptations, Boyz II Men, Stephanie Mills, En Vogue, Melba Moore, Tower of Power, The Dramatics, Rose Royce, and War; activities include Dance the Soul Train Line, dance lessons from original Soul Train Dancers, 25+ Celebrity-hosted events, panel discussions, artist Q&A sessions, happy hours, game shows, wine tasting, trivia contests, Karaoke, pool parties and more

Huddle On The Sea Cruise Join sexy, accomplished, beautiful people at sea PORTS: Miami, Dominican Republic, Aruba, Curaçao DATES: February 10-18, 2024 ITINERARY: Includes Lypc-Sync Battle, Bad & Boozy Beach Bash 2, HOTS Play Date, Pre-Super Bowl Tailgate Party, Trick or Treat Costume Party, HOTS Fitness

Return to HOME

Is there any updated information to this site for 2020?

Working on it.

COVID changed everybody’s cruise plans

If I sincerely apologize for my white privilege, can I go on your cruise?

Can I get some information on the cruise ship

Hello, I just found this site. Is there any updated information on cruises for 2022 or 2023 and beyond? Do you plan cruises on any other beside Carnival or Royal Caribbean (like Celebrity)? Thansl, Paul JC

Cruises have been slow to recover from the pandemic. We’ll update again this summer.

Are you offering any cruises for the holidays?

Individual cruise operators arrange cruises. Sorry to disappoint you, but Soul Of America is a publisher, not a cruise operator.

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2024 Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage  

The “Party with a Purpose” supports our HBCUs and a portion may be tax deductible.

As always, the Fantastic Voyage includes prepaids for which most cruises charge extra.

Transfers between the airport and the pier, cabin gratuities, and port fees and taxes are included in your cabin price.

FOR BOOKING CABINS OR CABIN PRICES PLEASE CALL (214) 495-1963

Last chance, get in where you fit in call (214) 495-1963

Passengers are responsible for providing their own cabin mates.

* All itineraries, times, ports, vessel, artists, performmers, appearances and locations are subject to change without notice.  

**consult with your accountant or preparer regarding the tax-deductible donation

*** For connecting cabins, ADA accessible cabins, and pricing for occupancies of 5 – 8 passengers…please contact the Fantastic Voyage Call Center at 214-465-1963.

2024 Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage  

The “Party with a Purpose” supports our HBCUs and a portion may be tax deductible.

*All itineraries, dates and times, vessel, ports, artists, performers, appearances, locations, etc. are subject to change without notice.

**Consult with your accountant or preparer regarding the tax-deductible donation.

Cruising with an African American Twist!

Celebrating over 30 Years!

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST

Some would call this a Black Cruise, and that's cool ... but let us explain why we call it an African American Cultural Cruise. We will also let you know about all the fun that goes down on our sailings, creating events designed with your music, your entertainment, and your kind of fun.  Festival At Sea’s African American Cultural Cruise is a celebration of family, music, dance, religion, comedy, family structure, literature, art and so much more. It is about our individual and wonderful differences, families, and our community. African American minorities are the second largest minority group, and we are traveling and exploring the world. We hope you are too.

Unforgettable Experiences ... Amazing Camaraderie

Festival at Sea 2024

Bahamas | Puerto Rico | St Thomas | St Maarten

Join us in France for a 7 night river cruise ... plus 3 nights in PARIS!

Friends of Festival at Sea 2024

Soulful Epicurean French River Cruise Experience

Friends of Festival at Sea 2025

Allure of Asia

• Jamrock Reggae Cruise

Welcome To Jamrock Reggae Cruise 2024

• Black Cruise Events Calendar 2024 - 2025
• Cruise For Less Than $200.00
• The Grown And Sexy Cruise
• Tom Joyner Fantastic Cruise
• The Soul Train Cruise
• The Smooth Jazz Cruise
• Super Bowl Cruise
• Aventura Latin Dance Cruises
• Capital Super Cruise
• Festival At Sea Cruise
• The Blues Cruise
• Blacks Over 40 Cruise
• Black Singles Cruise
• The Groove Cruise
• Travel Passports
• The Jazz Cruise
• Urban Cruise Weekend
• Dave Koz Cruise At Sea
• The Old School Cruise
• Crab And Cruise
• Rock The Bells Cruise
• Days Of Summer Cruise
• New Year's Eve Cruise
• Black History Cruise
• Paradise Island Cruise
• Patti Labelle Michael McDonald Cruise
• Melanin At Sea
• Super Legends Cruise
• Huddle On The Sea
• Love And Harmony Cruise
• The Vibe Cruise
• 1980s And 1990s Old School Cruise
• UberSoca Cruise
• The Steppers Cruise
• Grown And Sexy Group Cruise
• 10 Paradise Cruises - No Passport Needed
• Black Deaf Christian Cruise
• Sistahood At Sea Cruise
• The Girlfriends Cruise
• Feteopia Cruise
• Black Deaf Senior Citizens Cruise
• Caribbean Fest At Sea
• Botti At Sea
• Wave Jam Cruise
• BBlack Cruise
• The HBCU Cruise
• Soca On The Seas
• Past Cruise Events
• Mr. Smooth Cruise
• Mature Black Men Cruise

View our Fall 2025 Soul Train Cruise website and PREBOOK NOW!

Soul Train Cruise

January 26 - February 2 , 2025

(844) 266-7685

Join Waitlist

PREBOOK SOUL TRAIN CRUISE 2.0

SAILING NOVEMBER 2025

2025 Lineup

• Charlie Wilson
• Jeffrey Osborne
• Shalamar featuring Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey and Jeffrey Daniel
• The Brothers Johnson
• Al McKay's Earth, Wind, and Fire Experience
• The Original Lakeside
• Thelma Houston
• Ted Mills  original lead singer of  Blue Magic
• Original Stone City Band
• Bobby Wilson son of Jackie Wilson
• The Urban Guerilla Orchestra
• Cruise Host  Tony Cornelius
• Soul Train Cruise Comedy Club
• And More! 

The January 2025 Soul Train Cruise is Sold Out

A word from the soul train cruise.

March, 2024

Join Us in 2025 – Announcing Soul Train Cruise 2.0, Sailing Fall 2025

The January 2025 Soul Train Cruise sold out in record time! We share the disappointment of the many fans who missed out on securing a cabin. SO, we’re now offering a 2nd sailing of the 2025 Soul Train Cruise, to sail out of Ft. Lauderdale, FL November 9-16, 2025.

If you’re interested in joining us, book your spot for Fall 2025 now and find more information here.

Enjoy Celebrity-Hosted Activities!

See More Photos

In addition to live performances, you will enjoy dozens of celebrity-studded activities including:

• Artist Q&A sessions
• Dance Lessons with original Soul Train Dancers
• Wine Tasting
• Tribute Events
• Vow Renewal Ceremony
• Late Night Dancing in Club Soul Train
• Theme Nights and Costume Parties

See All Activities

BET Networks

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA) (NASDAQ: VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. Read More.  

The Don Cornelius Foundation

The Don Cornelius Foundation’s advocacy is dedicated to prevention of suicide and support for survivors who have lost loved ones to suicide. We seek to increase awareness and prevention by supporting programs creating culturally competent tools for national use. It is our desire to assist in the creation of a diverse national network of early awareness, prevention and treatment services. Read More.  

Our mission is to establish partnerships at the federal, state, local governments, local communities, for profit and nonprofits, and civic and local churches to expand, lead, develop, and advocate for HBCU's and their alumni. Read More.

T.J. Martell Foundation

We proudly support the T.J. Martell Foundation by donating auction items, which funds medical research to discover new treatments and cures for cancer with the support of the music and entertainment industries. A world without cancer is possible through targeted and bold investments in high-risk, high-gain cancer research that advances science and ultimately saves lives.  Read More

The Soul Train Community Online

Come join our thriving Soul Train Cruise Community to share memories, fun photos and trivia, hear the latest news and reconnect with friends from the cruise. 

• Soul Train Cruise on Facebook
• Soul Train Cruise on YouTube
• Soul Train Cruise on Spotify
• Soul Train Cruise on Instagram

Get more ship information

2025 Itinerary

See full itinerary

Aboard the Trip of a Lifetime

The Soul Train Cruise is THE Gold standard for fans of classic soul, funk, and R&B!

• 7 nights of luxury
• Beautiful Caribbean destinations
• Soul Train themed activities all day long
• Direct interaction with your favorite superstars
• More than 50 live unforgettable nightly performances
• Highly rated Holland America Line accommodations
• 2,000 other fans like you

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The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Adam Turner , CN Traveller

Connor Sturges , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

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10 Cheap Cruises Ranked By Their 2024 Prices

• Cruising offers an affordable and all-inclusive vacation option, with prices as low as $27.25 per person per night.
• Travelers can explore beautiful destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas on budget-friendly cruises.
• These cheap cruises provide luxury amenities, including open bars, water parks, multiple restaurants, and entertainment options.

The cruising world is one that travelers find hard to leave. With 24/7 food and restaurant opportunities, water parks, gyms, infinity pools, casinos, bars, and more, cruising is like going to a floating, all-inclusive hotel. While some cruise lines can be expensive, there are a few out there with some unbelievable deals that take their passengers on cruise ship voyages through Iceland's untamed beauty , cruises in the U.S. Virgin Islands , unique cruises in Greece , and the Caribbean's best-kept secrets, just to name a few.

The average cost per hotel room (excluding food) is predicted to be around $155 per person, per night, in 2024 . Still, in the land of cruising, travelers can enjoy an all-inclusive vacation for just $27.25 per person per night (the cheapest cruise on this list) or $95 per night (the most expensive 'cheap' cruise on this list).

For travelers looking to set sail and explore the world on a budget, these are the cheapest cruises to go on in 2024 (ranked by their 2024 prices), listed from cheap to 'super cheap'.

Related: 20 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

7-Night Alaska Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $669.

This 7-night cruise departs from Seattle, Washington, and takes its passengers to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), and Victoria, British Columbia. This is the cheapest cruise on offer for exploring the Alaskan waters.

The Norwegian Encore cruise line is one of the only ships that offer an open bar as part of the total price. It boasts an impressive 16 passenger decks, making it a cheap yet luxurious Alaskan vacation alternative.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Encore
• Book it here: 7 Night Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau on Norwegian Encore

10-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total cost per person for 10 nights: $509.

This 10-night cruise is the ultimate Caribbean getaway; offering the cheapest way to experience the length of the Eastern Caribbean, including stops in Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (the Cruiseline Private Island), Grand Turk Island in Turks & Caicos, and Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic.

This cruise comes in at just $51 per night, making it one of the cheapest Caribbean cruises (and vacations) to go on. The Carnival Venezia also offers more restaurants (8), outside rooms (1249), and passenger decks (15) than other cruise ships for the same price, making it one of the most cost-effective options.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Venezia
• Book it here: 10 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Related: Three Super Cheap Cruises Worth Booking In 2024

7-Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $479.

This 7-night Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel cruise around the Caribbean is the cheapest cruise line with an all-inclusive mini-water park in 2024.

The ship houses 2 pools and 5 whirlpools, a Kids Aqua Park, which includes a kid-size pool and slide, splash area, fountains and sprays, and 3 multi-story water slides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Epic Cruise Line
• Book it here: 7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $469.

This 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise that takes passengers to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico is the cheapest cruise departing from California.

The average price to visit and tour Mexico is $997 per person for 7 days , making this cruise an excellent all-inclusive alternative, costing half of the average price, with luxury amenities.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Panorama
• Book it here: 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

The cheapest cabin for this cruise is the interior cabin - bear this in mind when booking.

6-Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Total cost per person for 6 nights: $451.

This 6-night Pacific Coastal Cruise is another one of the cheapest 2024 cruises; it takes its passengers on a cost-effective journey one-way to discover the West Coast of Canada and the United States from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Los Angeles, California. The cruise explores sights in Vancouver before moving on to Victoria, British Columbia, San Francisco, California, Catalina Island, California, and ending in Los Angeles, California.

On the route, this affordable cruise ensures that entertainment, food, exercise, and more are all covered with its state-of-the-art facilities that aim to cost less than what passengers usually spend at home.

• Cruise Ship: Brilliance of the Seas
• Book it here: 6 Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Related: 10 Luxury Cruise Lines, Ranked By Passenger Review

11-Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

Total price per person for 11 nights: $369.

Easily rivaling even the best Caribbean island hopping cruises , this cheap, extensive cruise takes its passengers to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Cozumel, Mexico, Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas (a Cruise Line Private Island) and Miami, Florida for just $34 per person per night.

Dining, entertainment, bars, and sports zones are all included in the price, making it one of the amazing yet cheap family cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Meraviglia
• Book it here: 11 Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

5-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total for 5 days per person: $349.

This cheap almost-week-long Eastern Caribbean voyage takes passengers from Port Canaveral in Orlando to Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands before heading to Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and ending back in Port Canaveral.

The cruise includes amazing stage shows, live musical performances, stand-up comedy, clubs, bars, and lounges featuring DJs spinning, karaoke, piano sing-alongs, and more. On board, guests can also enjoy parties, game shows, and trivia contests.

There are also great options for all six meals — breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and late-night snacks at the full-service Main Dining Room or the casual Lido Restaurant. These amenities make it one of the cheapest entertainment-filled cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Freedom
• Book it here: 5 Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

4-Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

Total cost for four days per person: $229.

The Carnival Radiance takes its passengers on the cheapest trip to Mexico from Los Angeles they'll ever find. Stops along the way include Catalina Island, Ensenada, and Long Beach in Los Angeles.

From endless taco trains to never-ending burrito buffets and all-one-can-drink tequila, this all-inclusive Mexican fiesta is the cheapest way to spend a vacation in Mexico.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Radiance
• Book it here: 4- Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

2-Night Margaritaville At Sea Paradise Cruise

Total cost for 2 nights per person: $148.50.

This 2-night cruise through the Florida seas departs from Palm Beach, Florida, and takes its passengers on an all-inclusive, relaxing getaway. This cruise doesn't have any island extras that passengers need to budget for, making it one of the cheapest cruises to book in 2024.

Passengers won't need to worry about paying for anything more once they're on board.

• Cruise Ship: Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
• Book it here: 2-Night Florida Cruise 2024

4-Night MSC Bahamas Cruise

Total cost for 4 nights per person: $109.

Not only is this one of the most affordable Bahamas cruises , but it also comes in as the cheapest cruise for 2024. This ultimate budget-friendly cruise is the 4-night MSC Seashore Bahamas Cruise, which takes its passengers on a journey to the luscious Bahamas. The ship departs from Miami and stops over at Nassau and Freeport before heading back to Miami.

The only thing not included in this all-inclusive vacation is a Wi-Fi and on-board credit package. The MSC Seashore is one of the biggest MSC cruise ships, with multiple amenities while also being the cheapest to offer such amenities.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Seashore
• Book it here: 4-Night Bahamas Cruise 2024

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

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Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
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Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Royal Caribbean Lifts Profit View Again on Cruise Boom, Higher Prices

FILE PHOTO: Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world, is docked at Costa Maya Cruise Port, in the village town of Mahahual, Quintana Roo state, Mexico, February 6, 2024. REUTERS/Paola Chiomante/File Photo

By Juveria Tabassum and Doyinsola Oladipo

(Reuters) -Royal Caribbean Group on Thursday raised its annual profit forecast for a second time, after record bookings during the first quarter and higher ticket pricing boosted its results, sending its shares 4% higher premarket.

Soaring demand for vacations at sea has given cruise operators ample room to raise ticket prices as the industry looks to close the pricing gap between more expensive land-based holidays and give their profits a lift.

Royal Caribbean also beat expectations for quarterly profit and revenue, with half of its yield growth coming from higher ticket pricing.

"Our existing fleet along with our new ships continue to perform exceptionally well, highlighted by the market response to the launch of Icon of the Seas," said CEO Jason Liberty.

The company now expects annual adjusted profit between $10.70 and $10.90 per share, compared with its earlier forecast of $9.90 to $10.10.

The Celebrity Cruises operator carried 2.05 million passengers in the quarter, nearly 14% higher year-over-year. It also reported record demand during the "wave season" - a period marked by special cruise deals and discounts for the year.

That helped its quarterly revenue of $3.73 billion surpass expectations of $3.69 billion, according to LSEG data.

Higher ticket prices have helped shield the company from slightly steeper net cruise costs expected this year due to increased dry dock days, as well as an impact from canceled voyages to the Red Sea amid tensions in the region.

The company expects net cruise costs excluding fuel to increase about 5.5% for the year, up from its earlier forecast for a rise between 3.75% to 4.25%.

Royal Caribbean's adjusted earnings per share of $1.77 beat market expectations of $1.33.

"I remember owning the stock in 2022 and every client was giving me grief about it," said Peter Ahluwalia, manager at Belinvest Global Equity Fund that holds Royal Caribbean stocks and chief investment officer at Swiss Partners Group. "We're turning almost 45% return on equity at the moment, which is quite incredible."

Shares of the company have risen 126% to about $137 in the past year.

(Reporting by Juveria Tabassum in Bengaluru and Doyinsola Oladipo in New York; Editing by Devika Syamnath)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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More From Forbes

9 bucket list luxury cruising destinations for 2024.

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Hilltop houses and Greek Orthodox church dwarfed by cruise ship anchored offshore, Gialos (aka ... [+] Yialos), Symi (aka Simi), Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands, South Aegean, Greece, Europe.

Cruise vacations are a wonderful way to visit multiple destinations in one trip and unpack only once. And while cruises may not give people multiple days in each destination, it acts as a sampler for people to discover new places that they may possibly want to return to later.

Top Luxury Cruise Destinations

Knowing when to visit and what to explore can help people make the right decision for which to cruise take. The Caribbean and Mexico are the most common cruise destinations that people may think of, there are plenty of other bucket list destinations worth exploring. Here are some of the most popular among them and some of the latest news in the cruise industry .

1. Mediterranean

Villefranche-sur-mer on the French Riviera in summer

From Spain to Turkey and everywhere in between, these are highly popular sailings that can book up quickly. The best time to travel is during the summer months when the most ships are sailing in the Mediterranean, but prepare for hot weather. Many cruise lines move their ships to the Caribbean during the winter months.

The Spanish coastline, French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Greek islands and Turkish ports are some of the highlight destinations on these routes. Among the busiest departure ports for these cruises are Athens, Rome (Civitavecchia) and Barcelona, and some travelers like to extend their cruise with a pre- or post-cruise stay in these cities. Taking a cruise here is a great way to visit many countries in one trip.

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Evrima is sailing its inaugural season.

Among the new ships in the region for this year is Silversea’s Silver Ray, the second in the Nova class for the line. The new Sun Princess from Princess Cruises started sailing the Med this year. The second yacht in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is Evrima, which will start sailing in the Mediterranean later this year. Also new for the season is the National Geographic Day Tours sailings from Holland America that give travelers the change to sail with a National Geographic trained guide and explore ports with an expert.

MSC World Europa is the first Liquified Natural Gas-fueled ship in the company's fleet. The company ... [+] has a goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions for its entire fleet.

MSC Euribia and MSC World Europa are two of the most popular ships to sail in the region. The Italian-born company is especially appealing for travelers because its ships board new passengers every day unlike other cruises that start and end on a particular date. This schedule flexibility means travelers can choose which ports where they want to embark. Its ships have numerous specialty restaurants, engaging theater shows and family-friendly pool areas.

Another cruise line, SeaDream, operates differently than other companies by arriving in busy ports in the afternoon when most other cruise passengers are reboarding their ships. SeaDream then stays until midnight, or sometimes overnight, to give travelers the chance to explore without “people pollution.”

2. Australia and New Zealand

The famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge

These cruises showcase some of the top destinations down under. The best time to take a cruise is between December and February, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. The weather can be quite warm, but it is an ideal time to see major cities like Sydney and Auckland, explore the Great Barrier Reef or the Kimberley region on the Australian west coast. For those that want to extend their trip, they can visit major tourist sights like Ayers Rock in the center of the country and wine country regions in both countries.

The Kimberley region in Australia is a new destination for Seabourn.

New for the season is Seabourn Pursuit, which will sail the Kimberley region, the first time Seabourn visits the region. To honor the new itinerary, the cruise line named the Western Kimberley traditional land owners, the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation, as godparents of Seabourn Pursuit . Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, part of the Abercrombie & Kent brand, will sail around both countries this spring.

Oceania Cruises is known for its overnight stays in cities in the South Pacific including Melbourne and Bali in Indonesia .

Snow melts slowly from the mountains as spring approaches at the end of May in south-central Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park and the Hubbard Glacier are top sights on an Alaska cruise sailing, which is best during the spring and summer months when the temperatures are not frigid. Sailings typically take place between April and October. Holland America is a leader in this part of the world, but many cruise lines send their ships here for the dramatic scenery. This is one of those ideal trips for a multi-generational trip.

Edge is one of the newest ships in the cruise line's fleet.

New for the season is Celebrity Edge, a dramatic ship with a cantilevered bar and restaurant known as the Magic Carpet and attached to the side of the ships and can be lowered closer to sea level for an up-close look at stunning glaciers. Among the top news for Alaska’s cruise ports is a new cruise terminal in the state capital, Juneau, and a new 28-day sailing from Holland America. Don’t miss the new seasonal drink “Killer Whale Pale Ale,” which Holland America is launching this year on its Alaska sailings.

4. Antarctica

Cruises sail through the Lemaire Channel

Cruises are the most common way to visit Antarctica, and there are all kinds of ships of varying sizes and price points. These are typically not cheap trips, but it is one of the most bucket list trips you can take. The cruise season in Antarctica is between November and February, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. Don’t be fooled though, it will still be cold.

These sailings give passengers the chance to set foot on this remote continent amid massive glaciers and snow-covered mountains. Bird spotting and thousands of penguins are just some of the animal life people will see. Many travelers like to take the Arctic plunge when they jump into the frigid water for a brief second.

Scenic Eclipse II has its own helicopter.

Atlas Ocean just christened two Polar ships that will sail from Patagonia to Antarctica. Seabourn Venture is an expedition ship that was christened in Antarctica and is a great way to enjoy nature without giving up luxury. Don’t miss Scenic Eclipse II, which is an elegant yacht that comes equipped with a helicopter for birds eye views and a submarine for fisheye photo opps.

5. Panama Canal

The Panama Canal has cruise and cargo ships passing through.

Going through the locks of the Panama Canal gives travelers an up-close experience of this architectural marvel. Between November and April, taking a cruise around Central America and passing through the canal is ideal since temperatures are not as hot and humid as the summer. Some cruise lines move their ships between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans when they change destinations for the season. A popular itinerary is Viking’s Classic Panama Canal Passage, which sails from Fort Lauderdale through the canal and visits Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama.

A pair of Star Clippers ships

If you’ve done the Panama Canal cruise, consider a Suez Canal sailing, which explores the Greek Islands before crossing the canal to visit ports in Egypt. Guests can take an excursion to visit the Pyramids, which is a highlight of this itinerary. Star Clippers takes its majestic sailing ships with tall white masts on these trips. If you want a true sailing experience, Star Clippers is a great option.

An aerial view of the fishing boats in Zanzibar

Taking a cruise to ports along Africa’s coastline is a great way to visit multiple places without worrying about getting difficult visas for each country or finding a comfortable place to say. There are many different itineraries including around the southern tip to ports of South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. Others visit remote islands like Madagascar, Mauritius, Zanzibar and the Seychelles.

Azamara Quest visits the west coast of Africa.

The best time to visit is in the spring and fall as this means temperatures are not as hot as summer and also when cruise lines make these itineraries as they move ships to different regions. One of the most exciting (and quick to sell out) sailings is along parts of the west coast of the continent visiting places like the Bissagos Island chain, Sao Tome and Principe, Benin, Senegal and Gambia. Many travelers like to tack on a safari before or after their sailing.

Azamara Quest and Norwegian Sky are two of the most popular cruise ships that make these sailings. Azamara is known for its itineraries that remain in ports until late in the evening or even overnight giving travelers more time in each destination. For the 2025-2026 cruise season, Oceania Cruises will add new overnight stays in Mauritius, too.

Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam

Spotting the Northern Lights or sailing through panoramic fjords is often best experienced by ship. Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam sails through the Nordic countries during the summer months, the best time to visit the region since temperatures are not as cold. The newly launched Queen Anne from Cunard, which takes its first sailing in May, will sail around the British Islands and make its way to Norway to explore the fjords.

Hurtigruten Expeditions, a Norwegian company, operates its own series of sailings all along the coastline. The cruise line got its start here operating ferry ships bringing mail, supplies and other goods to remote parts of the country. Many of them also carry passengers that want to experience a smaller ship that visits different towns while also sailing through the fjords.

A Viking cruise ship sailing through the Norwegian fjords.

Another Nordic brand famous for its river and cruise ships is Viking, which operates its luxury ships carrying just under 1,000 passengers on signature itineraries like “Viking Homeland.” Viking Vela is one of the ships to make this journey, and Viking sailings are all-inclusive with drinks, all meals at specialty restaurants and excursions making it a great way to visit this region.

8. The Galapagos Islands

Galapagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) are sunbathing in the last sunlight at the beach of ... [+] Espanola island, Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. This species of sea lion is endemic at the Galapagos islands; In the background one of the typical tourist yachts is visible. Wildlife shot.

Sailing between these Ecuadorian islands is beautiful for the bird watching and animal spotting from the region’s famous tortoises, iguanas and penguins. Cruise ships in this region are limited in size by regulations to preserve the marine environment. Hurtigruten Santa Cruz II is one of the larger ships that operates several itineraries in the archipelago.

Celebrity Flora is based in the Galapagos Islands.

Among the most luxurious ships sailing the islands is Celebrity Flora, a purpose-built ship for the Galapagos with cabanas on its top deck, a marine biology exploration center and beautiful cabins with electronically controlled windows that allow cabins to feel larger.

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Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix 2024: Here's how much tickets cost

Despite being significantly lower than their debut in 2022, prices for a good view of the track are still high., by gerardo pons and janete weinstein • published april 27, 2024 • updated on april 27, 2024 at 11:27 pm.

After its debut in 2022, the Miami Grand Prix has been one of the most coveted F1 racing events in the world due to the celebrity-filled buzz paddock.

Miami is where F1 kicks off its American circuit followed by Dallas and Las Vegas.

The Miami Grand Prix is expected to take place on Sunday, May 5, at the Miami International Autodrome, a course built around the  Hard Rock Stadium in Miami  Gardens.

But despite the hype surrounding the event, and the fact that Miami's now one of the most visited and expensive cities in the U.S., ticket prices for this year's race have decreased compared to 2023.

Get South Florida local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC South Florida newsletters.

So ahead of the May 5th race, Here's what you need to know about this year's ticket prices.

Patrick Mahomes, Shakira and Tom Cruise are just some of the celebrities who follow F1

F1 schedule: Everything you need to know for 2024 season

Formula 1: All you need to know ahead of 2024 season

How much are tickets for the f1 miami gp 2024.

Despite the fact that prices have dropped significantly since the GP's debut in 2022, you may still need to spend a significant amount of money to get a good view of the track.

Which seats to get for F1 Miami GP 2024?

For starters, The Campus Pass grants you a three-day general admission ticket with access to Hard Rock Stadium, the fountains, the Marina, and the trackside lane between Turn 8-11. This year's Campus Pass starts at $150 per day or $450 less than the $590 asked last year. This option does not include an assigned seat.

However, if you'd like to have a seat, tickets skyrocket in price for the Grandstand tickets , which start at $600 and go up as high as $1,225. 

But if you'd like to get a top-of-the-line experience at the Miami GP, the most expensive tickets sold are those included in the Paddock Club package , The 72 Club and the Casa Tua Trackside Club.

The Miami GP currently does not publicly list prices for tickets for either of those clubs, but according to F1 Destinations, the Paddock Club tickets could cost over $10,000.

Where to buy tickets for the Miami F1?

For complete ticket prices, visit F1 Miami Grand Prix official site here.

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BMW unveils 2025 i4 with a reimagined gloss black front end and sportier digitized interior

BMW USA has shared initial details of its 2025 model year i4 EV ahead of the all-electric sedan’s official launch this summer. Updates include a redesigned front fascia (all hail the kidney!), new exterior colors, and a digitized interior with sportier textiles.

The BMW i4 debuted as a 2022 model-year sedan, which we at Electrek have had the chance to test out multiple times (with mostly nice things to say about it). It’s not the flashiest or most powerful of the BMW “i” line of BEVs and has been updated with lower specs to make it one of the German automaker’s most affordable models.

In fact, the version of the i4 before today’s incoming 2025 model is BMW’s most affordable EV lease option . Last summer, we saw BMW introduce a new variant of the 2024 i4 called xDrive40, positioned between the dual-motor i4 M50 and the single-motor i4 eDrive40.

Today, BMW USA has begun teasing its 2025 i4 models, including a redesigned M50 xDrive.

BMW shares new 2025 i4 details, just no pricing yet

Per BMW USA, the 2025 model year versions of the i4 BEVs have received cosmetic updates inside and out. The German automaker states the sedan’s slim headlights and vertical kidney grille have been refreshed. The former sees adaptive single LED modules that generate a “Welcome Light” animation when the drive gets within ten feet.

The latter gains a new matte chrome finish and its upper section has been fully enclosed to further showcase its high-gloss black finish (seen above). The M Sport package of the 2025 BMW i4 now also includes a lower diffuser in the rear bumper, finished in high-gloss black to match its air intakes on the front fascia. Those elements were Cerium Grey in previous i4 models .

New exterior colors have been added as configurable options, including Cape York Green metallic and Vegas Red metallic. Future 2025 BMW i4 customers will also be able to select from several new alloy wheel options, including 19-inch M Aero bi-color wheels available in the M Sport package.

Inside the 2025 i4, BMW said it focused on providing digitalization and “a sharper sporting profile.” A new QuickSelect feature in iDrive reduces the number of physical buttons in the cockpit, and additional features can be activated via touch on the sedan’s center display, including climate control and seat/steering wheel heating. Here are some more deets, per the release:

The new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe are fitted as standard with sport seats in perforated Sensatec. Vernasca leather trim with decorative quilting is available in five colors, including the new bi-color Black with Red Highlight. 2025 BMW i4s and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupes come standard with a two-spoke steering wheel with polygonal rim and illuminated multifunction buttons. Adding the M Sport Package now brings an M leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design with a flat-bottomed rim and a black center stripe marking the 12 o’clock position. The three-spoke M leather steering wheel standard on the i4 M50 xDrive and M440i models additionally features M tricolor stitching and a red stripe at top dead center.

The new EVs will arrive powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, which will enable updated cloud-based BMW Maps navigation and more holistic access to the My BMW App. Two elements BMW’s press release lacks are any mention of upgrades to the 2025 i4’s performance and what its variants will cost when they launch.

The automaker says pricing will be announced soon, ahead of the official launch of the 2025 i4 in July 2024. The BEVs continue to be built near BMW’s headquarters in Munich, Germany. Here’s a look at the European version of the i4 while we await more details.

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Scooter Doll is a writer, designer and tech enthusiast born in Chicago and based on the West Coast. When he’s not offering the latest tech how tos or insights, he’s probably watching Chicago sports. Please send any tips or suggestions, or dog photos to him at [email protected]