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Gay Cruises: Everything You Want to Know Before You Sail

Gay cruising is a major niche in the themed sailing market. These cruises are dedicated to offering ships full (or sometimes just groups) of like-minded passengers, and a number of sailings are offered each year.

But if you’ve never sailed a gay cruise before, then you might have a number of questions about what to expect. And even if you have taken a traditional cruise, there’s still a lot that is different about these trips. Or maybe you’re interested in taking one of these cruises but you’re not quite sure if it’s right for you.

After all, there’s a lot to have questions about. Can you sail solo? What’s the atmosphere like? And is everyone so young and fit as what’s seen in the pictures?

No matter the questions you might have, we’ve highlighted some of what you’ll want to know about this style of sailing before you board.

Know the Difference Between Gay Cruises Versus Gay Group Trips

The first thing you should realize is that there are gay cruises and then there are also gay group cruises.

With a gay cruise, a company like Atlantis Events charters an entire cruise ship and then creates a cruise that’s dedicated solely to their passengers. The cabins are resold through the company, not the cruise lines (so a passenger isn’t able to book the cruise through the cruise line’s website). Activities and entertainment are also geared toward the experience, which will be different from a normal cruise.

With a gay group cruise, a portion of a cabins are set aside for a smaller group (from dozens to hundreds) aboard a regular trip. This way there is still a larger contingent of gay passengers than what you’d find on a typical cruise, but the experience is in line with a traditional cruise (though there might be some special events planned). These trips offer more opportunities to sail since they don’t require chartering the whole ship. The downside is that they aren’t dedicated solely to gay passengers.

Several Companies Specialize in Gay Cruises

If you’re searching for a cruise to sail in the gay niche, you may not realize how many options you actually have. In fact, there are a number of companies that operate cruises, either with full ship charters or those previously mentioned group trips aboard regular cruises.

Just like cruise lines, each company seems to have a slightly different style of trip, giving you a number of options.

• Atlantis Events (specializes in whole ship charters for gay & lesbian cruises)
• R Family Vacations (trips for LGBT+, including friends and families)
• Pied Piper Travel (gay and lesbian group cruises)
• Brand g (LGBT+ river cruises and land tours)
• Olivia (LGBT+ woman cruise charters and resorts)
• VACAYA (specializes in whole ship charters and full resort buyouts for the entire LGBT+ Community)

These options should give you a good starting point in finding your style of cruise, as well as your different options for sailings.

Gay Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Lesbian (or Other Groups), But it Can

First things first, all the companies that specialize in this niche will be open and welcoming no matter how you identify. But you likely are interested in sailing with those that you have the most in common with as well. So if you’re a gay man, then you likely want to sail with other gay men. And if you’re a lesbian woman, then you likely want to sail with other lesbian women.

In the case of cruises, the term “gay cruise” is usually specific to mean gay males. Others are always welcomed, but you’ll find that most passengers fall into this group.

If you’re something else, then don’t worry. With the number of companies operating in this space, there is a welcoming place for everyone.

These Cruises Sail Around the Year (and Many Places Around the World)

One good thing about the popularity of this style of cruising is that trips are available year-round and worldwide.

The full-ship charters are less often, sailing a few times each year. However, with the gay group cruises, there are trips that sail literally every month. As well, they can range everything from short Caribbean cruises to lengthy holiday trips in exotic parts of the world. This includes transatlantic cruises, trips to Hawaii, Europe, Asia, and more.

One thing to note is that we don’t know of one easily searchable spot for gay cruises. Instead, it does take some searching around several websites to get an idea of all your available options.

Full Ship Charters Transform the Cruise Experience

We’ve covered that there are trips where the entire ship is chartered for the cruise and others where a group of rooms is booked on a normal cruise.

On those chartered ships, the experience is much different. With the entire cruise ship being used for the specialty cruise, that gives the company behind the charter more room to cater the experience to their specific audience.

For example, Atlantis Events says “we customize every facet of the experience – entertainment, itinerary, shore excursions – to create a one-of-a-kind vacation tailored specifically to our incredibly diverse group of gay and lesbian guests from around the world.”

“Atlantis hand-selects each and every comic, singer, musician, cabaret act, production show, drag performer, DJ, and more to create a lineup that’s tailor-made for a wide range of tastes.”

In other words, the experience on these trips isn’t just a cruise that happens to have gay or lesbian passengers. Instead, it’s reimagined to cater to the crowd.

Cruising Solo? You Won’t Be Alone

Sailing solo on a traditional cruise is definitely a niche. Most of the crowd are couples, families, or groups of friends. On a gay cruise, however, that’s not the case. In fact, it may be that more than half the ship is sailing solo.

Atlantis Events says that “all Atlantis vacations are roughly half singles — half couples.” Brand g says that “depending on the trip, anywhere between 15 to 40% of the group will be solo travelers.”

In fact, in our searches, just about all the companies behind the cruises cater in many ways to single cruisers. This includes things like special singles programming to make sure that those traveling alone are able to meet plenty of new friends. As well, room share programs are also widely used where single passengers are matched up with roommates on the ship to share a cabin.

Don’t Let the Marketing Photos Scare You. Real People Sail These Cruises

“I’ve always been insecure about my weight, and if the marketing strategy for an LGBTQ+ cruise, vacation, or tour company doesn’t include me or make me feel seen — as a chubby Black gay man — I avoid it,” said Kwin Mosby in a Travel & Leisure article about his experience on a gay cruise .

It’s understandable why he might have been concerned. Head to some of the major companies that put on the cruises and you’re likely to see lots of photos of beautiful people with chiseled bodies and tiny swimsuits. It can make you feel like if you have a “normal” body that you’ll be out of place.

In fact, Atlantis Events even addresses this question in their FAQs, which asks if you “have to have a great body to fit in” :

“Very funny. Seriously, while we have some great bodies in our brochure and website (remember it IS marketing!), Atlantis is really all about being yourself and feeling great about who you are. Whatever shape you’re in, you’re going to feel right at home on Atlantis. We promise.”

Mosby seemed to confirm that in his article.

“After a couple of hours on the ship, before leaving Port Everglades in Hollywood, Florida, I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity of passengers boarding. The age of passengers skewed older, but it was a microcosm of the LGBTQ+ community — different ethnicities, sexual orientations, and more.” 

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Last updated on March 23, 2020

So you’re thinking about taking your first gay or lesbian cruise, and you’re probably wondering where to begin. Gay cruising is taking the cruise market by storm, offering a fresh take on what cruises can (and should) look like.

There has never been a better time to experience your first gay cruise, but we always believe it’s better to be prepared so you have an idea of what to expect. 

First, you should probably ask yourself if and why you should take a gay cruise. Depending on your personality and expectations, they can be overwhelming for some, and the perfect holiday match for others. Then, remember to research the best (and worst) ports and destinations for gay cruises to avoid being discriminated against or feeling unwelcome.

Next, you'll want to plan your cruise, and that might include finding the best 2020 gay cruise deals out there and gay-friendly cruise lines and ships. Have you thought about trying a gay cruise for singles or a luxury cruise? Maybe you're a concerned about gay cruising as a woman or a lesbian group? What happens on a gay cruise, how much do they cost, how to gay cruise? We will try answering all your questions to give you a good idea of what a gay cruise actually looks like.

Now in this article, we provide gay cruising tips for first timers: how to pack, what to do and what not to do and how to stay safe during your cruise. Sounds good? Then jump to your preferred section to read our tips.

How to pack for a gay cruise

What to do on a gay cruise, what not to do on a gay cruise, tips and advice before you depart, tips to keep in mind during your gay cruise, transgender specific safety tips.

In many ways, packing for gay, lesbian, or bisexual cruising is no different from packing for any other cruise. However, if you’re looking to book a chartered all-gay cruise with an operator like Atlantis’ gay cruises, there are a couple special twists from a traditional packing checklist you should keep in mind.

1. Travel light

This is a great cruise tip regardless of whether you’re taking a gay or mainstream cruise. You don’t need as many outfits as you think you do! Try to limit yourself to some essential wardrobe pieces you can easily mix and match and save yourself some space for shopping. 

One handy tip for staying fresh: mix a little vodka with water in a spray bottle and spritz your clothes. It’s a tried-and-true trick used by dancers to combat odors and works just as well on your favorite pair of shorts or blouse.

2. Stock up on swimsuits

This is particularly true if you’re on a gay cruise, but also applies to ladies booking a lesbian Southern Caribbean cruise : pack a couple extra swimsuits. For men, a good rule is one bathing suit per day. Gay cruise lines also feature lots of parties, and a festive speedo can double as a costume in a pinch.

3. Stay protected!

Sunscreen (what did you think?) is one of the items people consistently regret not bringing. You’ll probably be spending lots of time in the sun, so pack that SPF and have fun!

Of course, sunscreen isn’t the only protection you’ll need. We recommend stocking up before you depart, especially if you’re heading out into international waters, since safety regulations vary from country to country as do (surprise!) languages.

Also, if you’re planning on bringing sex toys, be advised that in some countries, possession of a sex toy or sexually explicit material can because for arrest or detainment. If you really want to bring it along, do your research in advance.

4. Pack your carry-on with essentials

An extra outfit and swimsuit in your carry-on means at least you can be comfortable if you need to work out the logistics of a lost or delayed bag with the cruise staff. We also strongly recommend you always carry medications and extra toiletries with you so you can stay healthy and fresh, even in the worst-case scenario.

5. They’re called airplane bottles for a reason…

You know those little tiny bottles available in pretty much every liquor store and duty-free store? Those are under the legal limit to carry-on. You can get the party started earlier by packing one or two in your carry-on bag.

6. Costumes

We touched on this earlier, but costume parties are one of the things that make gay cruises special. Chances are you’ll have the chance to participate in at least one costume party on board, so bring a little something extra that you feel cute in.

If you can’t imagine cruising without stilettos, bring your favorite pair, but remember that kinky boots aren’t suitable for hiking, biking, or sunbathing. Pack some flats, some sandals, and maybe a pair of sneakers or hiking boots depending on how you prefer to explore in port.

8. Important documents

This is a pretty serious one, especially for LGBT cruisers traveling outside the United States. It may seem grim or paranoid, but we recommend bringing:

• Legal and health documents (like a living will or healthcare directive)
• Parentage and/or custody documents for your kids (especially if your children don’t share your last name)
• Emergency contact information (including contact info for your lawyer, just in case)
• Addresses and phone numbers for the US embassy or consulate in each country you visit (and we recommend you translate into the local language wherever you go, in case you need to ask local police or other authorities for help)

Look for your preferred cruise ship

Once your bags are packed, what are you going to do next? Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway for you and your significant other or excited about your first lesbian singles cruise, there are tons of things that make cruises fun and exciting vacations for everyone. From classes and games to poolside lounging to taking a well-deserved break in the cruise ship spa, here are some things you can’t miss on a gay cruise.

Gay cruises are renowned for the abundance and variety of their parties. Costume and theme parties are a great opportunity to shine, show off, or simply be wowed by the creativity (and audacity!) of your fellow cruise passengers. When it comes to the dress code for many of these parties, anything goes, so let loose and have fun!

Take part in cruise ship activities

Games, classes, performances, shows – it’s worth getting up and powering through a hangover to meet new people, make some friends, and have some fun during the day. Norwegian Jade and Celebrity constellation are famous for them fun onboard activities.

Pro-tip to make friends on a gay cruise: print out customized gay cruise cards with a picture of you and your contact information. Hand them out to people you meet onboard. It’s a great way to keep in touch with new friends both during and after your cruise.

Go ashore and explore

Your gay cruise ship may sometimes feel like a floating city, but don’t forget about all the amazing places you have the opportunity to visit. Take the opportunity to get off the ship and take shore excursions, taste local cuisine, go to a private beach, pick up some unique souvenirs, snap some photos, and generally make the most out of each picturesque port.

Cruise ships offer plenty of dining options on board, so there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes. While it may be tempting to stick with the buffet or the main dining room, it’s worth it to splurge a little on specialty restaurants or a romantic dinner for you and your special someone (or someones). Plus, all that partying, dancing, exploring, and playing means you’ll need to replenish your energy, and what better way to do it than with some of the best cuisine available?

Stay hydrated

Bottled water on cruise ships is expensive (and rarely included) so bring a water bottle with you and fill it up in your stateroom sink - it’s totally safe to drink, and will save you from shelling out $4 for an Evian.

Are you ready to set sail? Before you go, have one last check about LGBTQ cruises don'ts. While some of these may seem like common sense, we still recommend you avoid doing the following during your gay and lesbian travel. They might just help make your holiday an unforgettable experience.

Don’t pay for internet

It’s expensive, often unreliable, and totally unnecessary. Take care of work before you depart, and unplug. Seriously - you’ll be surprised at how welcoming and sociable everyone onboard is. You don’t need social media to be social.

Don’t be shy

We get it -  gay cruises for singles can be intimidating at times. And sure, sometimes it’s nice to have a quiet moment reflecting on your experience so far. But don’t be a wallflower. Remember that cruises are designed to be social and to let loose. Even if you aren’t looking for love, gay cruises are great places to meet gay men, make friends, connect with leaders in your industry, and generally just have fun.

Don’t bring drugs

This seems obvious, right? Maybe not. Drug usage on cruises hit the spotlight in January 2019 when 36-year-old Joel Taylor, star of Discovery’s Storm Chasers, died of an overdose while on an Atlantis events cruise. 

It’s one thing to go with the flow and be up for new experiences, and another thing entirely to bring drugs or other illegal substances onboard. It’s a great way to put your life or the lives of others in danger, and put yourself at a higher risk of getting kicked off the cruise, being arrested, or facing other (expensive) legal ramifications.

While many countries like Canada and New England accept and welcome the gay community, others do not. This is one of the reasons that LGBT travelers need to do some extra preparation before embarking, even when embarking on a gay, lesbian, or transgender cruise.

1. Research your destinations in advance

There are 82 countries where it is still illegal to be gay. This means that  not every port will be welcoming to LGBTQ+ people , so it pays to do your research ahead of time and plan your excursions accordingly. If a port isn’t gay-friendly, simply stay on the ship and take advantage of the extra lounge chairs by the pool, snag a spot at trivia, bingo, or yoga, or indulge in a hot stone massage. 

If you book an all-gay cruise with a gay cruise operator like Atlantis, RSVP Vacations, or Olivia, you won’t need to worry as much about this. However, if you’re traveling with an LGBT group cruise on a mainstream line, we recommend checking the country info pages on the  US Department of State website .

2. Update your passport

We’ve heard some horror stories about trans cruise passengers being hassled or even denied entry to a cruise ship because they weren’t presenting as the gender indicated on their passport. Rather than risk experiencing this firsthand, we recommend the following options:

Use the name and gender on your passport to book your trip, and present as the gender indicated on your passport while flying, embarkation, and disembarkation.

If you don’t look like your passport photo, update your passport before leaving.

If you don’t have time to update your passport, get a note from your doctor explaining why your appearance has changed.

Is this unfair? Yes. Is it still a practical tip? Unfortunately, yes. Carnival has been known to require transgender cruisers to present as the gender on their passport in the past, while cruise lines like P&O and Royal Caribbean are very trans-friendly and have even provided cruise cards for both presenting and passport genders. Celebrity Cruises is also known to be gay friendly.

3. Buy insurance!

Cruise travel insurance is important for everyone, but perhaps especially for LGBT cruisers traveling outside the US, where laws, regulations, and rights may be different. Should the worst happen, it’s always best to be prepared! (We wrote a whole article on  why you NEED cruise travel insurance , if you want to learn more.)

Laws and regulations

You are subject to the laws and regulations of each country where you travel. The US Department of State cautions “In many countries, consensual same-sex sexual activity, public gathering, or dissemination of pro-LGBTQ material may be illegal.” We aren’t saying you need to closet yourself, but as with any cultural exchange, be respectful, be aware, and stay safe.

Entrapment campaigns

Be aware that police in some countries monitor some websites, mobile apps, and meeting places that are commonly used by the gay community. It’s important to be aware of these policies and avoid using these websites, apps, or neighborhoods to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during your cruise.

Segregation of gay-friendly resorts and communities

Even countries that are generally hostile to LGBT folks can be home to gay-friendly enclaves - from resorts to cities - where you can feel free to explore. But exercise extreme caution if you decide to venture out of the resort, community center, or neighborhood, because attitudes in surrounding communities may not be as accepting.

Contact the US embassy or consulate if you need help

As a US citizen, it’s your right to contact the US embassy or consulate to help you if you are arrested, face harassment, or are treated unfairly.

Generally speaking, travel is particularly complex for trans cruisers. In many places in the world, gender identities and sexuality remain frustratingly conflated, which can cause embarrassment, stress, and increased difficulty for transgender travelers. Here are just a couple of tips specific to the trans community that can make transgender vacations and cruising a little easier.

Know the rules about traveling with needles and/or hormones

Here’s what you need to know:

• All syringes and hormones must be prescribed and be accompanied by the original box and pharmaceutical label
• Notify TSA that you are traveling with medication prescribed by your doctor
• Store all medications in a separate bag for easier screening
• Ask flight crew to keep medication in the refrigerator if they need to be chilled, or keep a thermos handy to do it yourself
• Keep pills in a safe, dry place in your carry-on

Never freeze hormones

Know your rights when it comes to airport security

Here are the basics:

• You can opt out of the AIT (Advanced Imaging Technology) booth, which shows TSA agents an image of your naked body and any binding or prosthetics. This will result in a pat-down by a security officer of the same gender indicated on your passport. You’re entitled to request a private screening and to bring a friend with you. You are also entitled to request to speak to a supervisor at any time during the screening.
• If a TSA agent’s conduct is unprofessional in any way, you can file a complaint with the Office of Civil Liberties. A TSA agent cannot ask you to remove binding or prosthetics. However, you may still be subject to screening. Prosthetics in your carry-on may also be subject to additional screening, and you are entitled to request a private screening in this case. We recommend you avoid prosthetics with any metal parts. Binding may raise concerns about hidden contraband, but remember your rights if you feel uncomfortable.
• You have the right to wear whatever you want and present however you want. However, in practice, presenting differently from the gender shown on your passport or wearing clothes with lots of metal can cause more hassle and stress, and can end up wasting a lot of your time.

Check out these articles for more information on gay cruises:

• Reasons to Take or Skip a Gay Cruise
• The Best (and Worst) Ports and Destinations for Gay Cruises

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The Ultimate Guide on Finding the Best Gay Cruise

Cruising can be for anyone. No, not that type of cruising – although that too can be for anyone – but going on a gay cruise ship. Whether you opt for calmer seas on a smaller vessel, or the stormy waters of a bigger party boat, you're guaranteed a good time on a gay cruise. You'll be surrounded by like-minded LGBTQ+ shipmates, and a crew whose jobs are centered around providing the best – and gayest – experience possible. All this sets gay cruises apart from their heterosexual counterparts. 

After making the decision to take the plunges and book a cruise, the tricky part is choosing the perfect one for you. Not only deciding how big you want your ship to be, but the wheres and the hows of your cruise.  Your potential options range from the sunbaked shores of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, to the Baltic Sea, or even the frozen wonderland of Alaska. Then there’s the matter of how much onboard entertainment you want? Are you looking for snorkeling and culturally diverse inland trips, or rooftop dance parties and drag bingo? Maybe some combination of the two. Regardless, there's something to suit every type of LGBTQ+ journeyer on a gay cruise..

You can opt for a small ship with a more intimate feel with companies like Source Journeys or Brand g Vacations or take one of the more popular, large ships with companies like Atlantis , VACAYA , or La Demence . For the ladies, Olivia is the major player in the market and many of these companies have been around for 20 years or more.

Why Take a Gay Cruise?

• Easy to meet new people – one great aspect of taking a gay cruise is that most of the guests are friendly and open to meeting new people. On a straight cruise, guests come with friends or family and already have a social group established. On a gay cruise, there are many activities that help connect guests to give you a better chance at meeting people.
• Travel alone – most gay cruise companies offer a cabin match program where they will assign you a roommate, so you don’t have to pay for the full price of a two-person room if you’re traveling alone.
• Awesome parties – If you book a cruise with one of the large ship companies like Atlantis , La Demence or VACAYA , you’ll be in for a treat with awesome parties. The over-the-top events are usually themed, often outdoors and guests are encouraged to dress up.
• Great entertainment – most of the big gay cruise lines bring on big headliners or “gaylebrity” performers. Into drag queen bingo? How about performances from some of the top gay celebrity comedians, entertainers and famous drag queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race?
• Be yourself – probably one of the most attractive parts about a gay cruise is the comfort zone. The entire ship is full of LGBT guests and all staff has been extensively trained to provide you with a welcoming and gay-friendly experience. It’s a very open environment and one where you can relax and be yourself without fear of harassment.
• Social impact – some companies aim to not only offer a unique travel experience but also make a difference through social impact in the communities they visit. Companies like Source Journeys strive to do good in the world by offering volunteering opportunities in certain destinations as well as supporting local nonprofits through volunteering or financial support.

The History of the Gay Cruise Industry

The concept of LGBT-specific travel started in the ’70s and was pioneered by Hans Ebensten , who began taking gay men on tours rafting through the Grand Canyon as well as to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. As LGBTQ+ people became more visible and acceptance shifted, several more companies began creating trips for the LGBTQ+ community. The concept of a gay cruise was the perfect environment because the ship itself was isolated on the ocean and all the attendees could be completely themselves without fear of judgment or harassment. The first all gay cruises were started by RSVP in 1987, followed by the other pioneers Atlantis Events (1991) and Olivia , who started offering lesbian cruises in 1990. Over the years other companies joined the field like VACAYA , Source Journeys , La Demence , Out Adventures and more.

Types of Gay Cruises

Gay cruises generally fall into one of the following categories.

• Large full-ship gay cruises – this is the most common and popular gay cruise where you can expect top-of-the-line cruise ships from well-known companies like Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages, Celebrity Cruises or Norwegian Cruise Lines. The number of guests typically from 1,000 to 5,000 depending on the company, ship and route. The longtime players (20+ years) like Atlantis , RSVP and Olivia all fall into this category, as well as the other players in the market like VACAYA (5 years) and The Cruise by La Demence (11 years).
• Small full-ship gay cruises – smaller companies like Source Journeys , Brand g , Out Adventures and other LGBTQ+ tour operators organize smaller cruises. The number of guests could range from 20 to 500 depending on the company and route. Source Journeys and Brand g offer a luxury travel experience compared to the other operators so you can expect a higher-end offer with more luxurious ships and services. Source Journeys even goes as far as to offer elevated experiences that enrich the lives of their guests and empower them to do good in the world.
• Gay river cruises – gay river cruises are popular in Europe and typically visit destinations like France, Germany, Austria, The Netherlands or Belgium, just to name a few. They are similar to small full-ship gay cruises, with the exception that they cruise on a river as opposed to the open ocean. The number of guests typically ranges from 50 to 300 depending on the company and route. River cruises are organized by companies like Brand g , VACAYA , Source Journeys and Olivia .
• Partial-ship gay cruises – some LGBTQ+ tour operators with a smaller audience or client base will organize a small group on a mainstream cruise. These often take place on large cruises ships. Most of the guests onboard are straight, however, a group of perhaps 50-100 LGBT guests might be onboard. Meals and group activities are typically organized to keep the group together throughout the trip.
• Gay sailing trips – there are a number of companies that offer gay sailing trips in different destinations around the world. It’s important to note that the experience on a small sailing boat of around 10-20 people is quite a different experience than a gay cruise. It’s more intimate, relaxing and casual than a gay cruise. However, larger sailing ships holding between 20 to 300 guests might feel a bit more like a small gay cruise. We even offer our own Two Bad Tourists gay sailing trips since 2018, visiting Greece and Croatia with a Europe-based gay sailing company. Other sailing companies include GaySail and Everything to Sea .

Is a Gay Cruise Right for You?

First, you need to decide whether taking a cruise, in general, is something you want to do. Not everyone likes cruising due to the nature of the experience, but many do. Second, if taking a cruise definitely interests you, next you’ll need to decide if you prefer a gay cruise or a mainstream cruise. Here are a few things to consider.

• Your cabin, meals and entertainment are included in the price
• The ship will be exclusively LGBTQ+ guests
• Cruises can be crowded and there isn’t a lot of privacy
• You can visit many new destinations in one trip, but you only have a short time at each port to explore
• Gay cruises can be a bit more expensive than mainstream cruises due to the elaborate parties and unique entertainment onboard

Gay Cruise & Sailing Companies

Below is a list of various companies that operate gay cruises and sailing trips. Some have been around for decades while others are relatively new to the market. We’ve also listed the types of cruises that the companies generally offer.

• Atlantis Cruises  – large full-ship
• VACAYA – large full-ship, small full-ship, river cruises
• RSVP – large full-ship
• La Demence – large full-ship
• Olivia (lesbian) – large full-ship, river cruises
• Brand g Vacations  – small full-ship, river cruises
• Source Journeys – small full-ship, luxury cruises
• Out Adventures (both gay & lesbian) – small full-ship
• R Family Vacations – small full-ship, river cruises
• HE Travel – small full-ship, sailing
• Everything to Sea  – sailing
• GaySail – sailing
• HolidayPride – sailing, small full-ship
• Two Bad Tourists – sailing (yes, that’s us!)

How to Choose the Best Gay Cruise or Company

Determining which gay cruise or trip to take is completely subjective. People have different preferences, budgets or destinations in mind when it comes to booking a trip. All the companies listed here are recommended and have good reviews, but you want to make sure you pick the right trip for your travel style and preferences. Below are a few tips to consider when booking your trip.

• Party focus – the large, full-ship takeovers like Atlantis , VACAYA and The Cruise by La Demence tend to be very party-focused and many guests go on these cruises just for the party atmosphere. They might not even get off the ship at the ports. La Demence is the most intense with its parties, with Atlantis as a close second. Both are circuit party style, while VACAYA is more diverse and pop themed, with top 40 music.
• Destination – decide if you are going on a gay cruise for the ports of call, for the gay cruise experience in general, or both. Some people might prioritize the destination over the parties so be sure to check out the route and places you’ll visit to help you decide. Large ships like Atlantis and VACAYA tend to go to more touristic ports while companies like Source Journeys,   Brand g or Out Adventures focus on smaller, more intimate ports which can only be visited by small ships.
• Budget – the price of the trip is an obvious factor. You’ll need to add the price of flights or transportation into your budget so the location of the departing and arrival port should be part of your planning process. The entry-level price to gay cruise typically starts around $800 per person for a week-long trip.
• Size – it’s important to decide if you prefer a large group or small. Large groups and full ship takeovers offer great parties and header liner entertainment, but some people may want to avoid the crowds and opt for a more intimate experience on a smaller ship.
• What’s included? – most gay cruises include the cabin, meals and onboard entertainment in the price. However, unless you book an all-inclusive trip with Brand g , these items are typically not included in the price: pre and post hotel stay, land tours and excursions, specialty drinks/alcohol and airport transfers.
• The crowd – the type of people who go on each gay cruise varies and might be a determining factor. Atlantis , RSVP and La Demence are about 99% gay men and Olivia is 99% lesbian women. Out Adventures offer both gay and lesbian small ship cruises. VACAYA has a mission to be more diverse and inclusive for the entire LGBTQ+ community, though their trips are still probably 80-90% gay men. RSVP and Brand g tend to have an older crowd, with the latter having more luxurious and all-inclusive trips. Finally, Source Journeys is a high-end operator who also tends to attract middle-aged men who seek ‘once-in-a-lifetime' experiences but they are consciously working to be more inclusive to the entire LGBTQ+ community.

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11 things I learned on my 1st gay cruise

You've probably heard of gay cruises and wondered how they differ from "traditional" cruises. Are they open to straight people? Is it all about partying? What about the hook-up element?

I recently sailed with tour operator Vacaya on a one-week gay cruise departing from Fort Lauderdale and heading to the Caribbean via Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection cruise ship. For context, I'm a white, cisgender, gay, 35-year-old man. I had a lot of questions about what to expect, given this was my second cruise ever and my first one with a queer tour operator.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here are the top things I'd want someone considering or planning their first gay cruise to know.

People are friendly

The first thing that struck me about the sailing was that almost everyone was smiling and eager to interact. As an Australian living in the U.S. for almost a decade, I generally find Americans to be open, talkative and curious. This cruise was like that ... on steroids.

I would have found it overwhelming if I weren't an extrovert, but since I'm a social butterfly, I was in heaven.

Tip: Taking the stairs between levels on the ship is a great way to keep in shape. However, opt for the elevators if you are searching for moments of lighthearted connection. Waiting for an elevator to arrive at your floor and then jumping in with other guests gives you a quick opportunity for some enjoyable small talk.

Partying is front and center

The rumors are spot on. Gay cruises have tons of parties, sometimes multiple a day. If you're on a weeklong sailing, it's important to pace yourself.

Most of the parties on my cruise took place outside by the pool and started at 10:30 p.m. The late start gave enough time for passengers to eat dinner, attend an evening show and get dressed in theme.

Highlights on my cruise included a Super Bowl party (the day we boarded), a traffic light party (the gay cruise version of an icebreaker activity, see below) and the "She's A Mess" party on the final afternoon (where passengers donned one piece from each costume they'd worn throughout the week).

It's also a good idea to plan your outfits well in advance — people get really into the party themes. You can find information about theme nights on your tour operator's website.

Related: 12 gay cruises you don't want to miss

It's sex-positive

Going into the cruise, one of my biggest questions was, "Would people be hooking up all over the ship in public places?" On this particular Vacaya cruise, I did not see anything like that. (I can't speak for other sailings, though.) However, sexual expression was a prominent feature of the cruise — and I loved it.

I appreciated the three types of lanyards that Vacaya offered upon boarding. It was the traffic light system: red for "taken," yellow for "it's complicated/maybe" and green for "available." This made it easy to understand what kind of interaction someone wanted. At the traffic light party on the second night, I estimated 60% of the passengers were dressed in green, 30% in yellow and the remaining 10% in red.

One unique feature Vacaya had on this cruise was a late-night "dark room" on the rooftop basketball court. It was very popular.

The crew won't judge you

Cruise ships hire crew members from around the world, with many coming from more conservative countries. I wasn't sure how they'd react to thousands of openly gay men taking over their cruise ship.

Once on board, I realized my concerns were overblown. The Celebrity Cruises crew — waiters, room stewards, bartenders — were consistently friendly. I never sensed any judgment from them. They didn't even bat an eyelid when a drunk gay guy wearing nothing but underwear came to a bar to order a drink. I'm not saying I was that guy.

Choose your cruise carefully

The one major lesson I learned is that it's important to do your research.

On this cruise, I sometimes felt like a fish out of water. At 35, I was one of the youngest on the sailing. Vacaya skews older (think: Gen X and boomers), whereas I've heard Atlantis gay cruises attract mainly twinks and daddies.

Of the well-known queer cruises, Atlantis is for your circuity gays, and Olivia is for queer women. Vacaya skews toward a more inclusive and welcoming experience for everyone (although it needs more work in this area). Body positivity was an obvious component of my Vacaya cruise, and I heard many passengers say they appreciated this.

Related: These LGBTQ-focused travel companies can help you plan the perfect cruise

Gay cruise travel is a huge (and growing) market

Queer travelers account for 5% to 10% of the global tourism market, according to the World Tourism Organization . Couple that with the huge growth in cruising over the past decade (excluding the pandemic), and it's obvious that cruise and tour operators can earn a lot from catering to LGBTQI+ travelers.

For example, Fort Lauderdale saw four sold-out LGBTQI+ cruises in February 2023. Atlantis and Vacaya had one each, and tour operator Olivia had two women-focused cruises. Atlantis' voyage on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas was the largest gay cruise ever, with more than 5,400 passengers.

If you want to go on a gay cruise, I'd suggest booking early to secure your place and take advantage of early bird discounts. With growing demand, I hope to see an increase in the number and type of sailings offered, giving queer travelers more themed cruise options.

Diversity and inclusion is a work in progress

In my opinion, the cruise was too heavily skewed to a specific demographic. I estimated that at least 90% of the passengers on my cruise were white, cisgender, gay men from the U.S. — and that was on Vacaya, one of the more "inclusive" cruise operators.

The organizers clearly have a strong passion for and commitment to making their experiences more inclusive and diverse. They teared up when talking about their origin story and what they envision for their future experiences.

However, it's a bit of a chicken-and-egg situation. Vacaya has a financial incentive to cater to its base market of white, affluent gay men. But, its future growth lies in providing opportunities that broaden the company's reach to other tribes in the larger community, such as queer people of color, transgender and gender-nonconforming folx, and women.

For Vacaya to achieve that goal, those groups must make bookings and come on board. However, they'll be hesitant to book if they don't think there will be people like them on board. It's a work in progress.

On my cruise, I did see a glimmer of Vacaya's future.

One evening, I sat behind a black trans woman and a plus-size, white cisgender woman in a wheelchair to watch a show in the ship's auditorium. When drag queen Alyssa Edwards began lip-syncing on stage to "This Is Me" from "The Greatest Showman," they reached out to hold hands as they sang along. These are the moments Vacaya hopes to deliver to more queer travelers in the future.

Gay cruises are more expensive than regular cruises

Gay or queer cruises cost more on average than your everyday cruise because they offer premium LGBTQI-focused entertainment, such as drag queens and world-renowned DJs on each sailing. The charter company (Vacaya, in this case) needs to pay not only the cruise line but also the specialized entertainment — and turn a profit.

Make sure you save up your cash for the room, taxes, gratuities, drink packages and shore excursions — it can really add up.

For example, Vacaya's pricing for its weeklong 2024 Caribbean cruise starts at around $4,000 per room for a windowless inside cabin (same price for one or two people; includes taxes and gratuities). That's roughly 50% more than a "regular" cruise for the same duration and on the same ship, where pricing starts at $2,600.

Many people don't explore the ports

Based on my observations and conversations with other shipmates, I don't think many passengers got off the ship in every port. Perhaps that's because our itinerary featured four back-to-back port stops. Or, my shipmates were too hungover to go out or wanted to prioritize time on the ship they had paid so dearly for. Whatever the reason, many people were at the lunch buffet and lounging poolside during our port stops.

To be honest, I only got off at Grand Cayman and stayed on board in Cozumel, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; and Roatán, Honduras (all of which I'd visited on previous trips).

It turns out my observations were correct. The Vacaya cruise organizers confirmed that on big-ship Caribbean cruises, many guests typically stay on board in one or two ports. On the company's luxury cruises — which focus more on bucket-list destinations — and Mediterranean cruises, a higher percentage of guests get off the ship daily.

For the record, people who did get off the ship didn't miss much. People mostly used port days to enjoy more pool time and work out at the gym (which, surprisingly, never got busy on my cruise). Vacaya schedules its marquee activities for when the ship is sailing.

Wash your hands

The worst part of the cruise? I picked up norovirus about halfway through the sailing and was bedridden for the final three days.

Norovirus is a contagious virus that spreads through direct contact with an infected person or surface and causes diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain. The self-contained, high-traffic nature of a cruise ship makes it susceptible to outbreaks, and on a gay cruise, frequent incidences of person-to-person contact can increase your chances of getting sick.

My most unpleasant memories from this cruise included gathering the energy to make my way from my cabin to the buffet to eat something, anything, that would fill me up before my whole world came crashing down again. Picture the wedding dress-fitting scene from "Bridesmaids." I was Kristen Wiig desperately trying to pretend she was enjoying her almonds — all in front of hundreds of other gay men. Not a peak life moment for me.

The best way to avoid catching norovirus is to wash and sanitize your hands frequently. I thought I was doing a good job of that, but apparently, it wasn't enough. This is a public service announcement to wash your hands more than you think you need to the next time you're on a cruise.

Many passengers come back time and again

Vacaya has a return rate of more than 70%, which is even more notable given it has only been around for five years. (This was its fifth birthday celebration.) People talk with their feet — and their wallets. If they're returning, they must enjoy the experience and want to reconnect with friends and lovers they met on previous cruises.

If you enjoy your first cruise, it's worth keeping your eyes out for any early bird discounts for future sailings the line may offer during the final couple of days you are on board.

Bottom line

With LGBTQI+ rights under sustained attack, it was refreshing to get out into the open ocean with other queer folx and let our pride flags fly. The feeling of dancing in the warm Caribbean breeze with thousands of other queer people — and a supportive, open-minded crew — without fear of judgment, violence or harassment is something I believe every queer person deserves.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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As Sharon Moss' cruise vacation came to an end, the 42-year-old went big before going home.

Moss, who is fine with any pronoun but mostly uses they/them, spent the last day of February sailing to the Caribbean on Celebrity Cruises' Reflection ship dancing in the pool with their girlfriend. Being surrounded by fellow guests decked out in feather boas, shower curtains and lopsided wigs – the party's theme was "She's a Mess" – Moss felt there was something different about the trip.

The voyage was Moss' first trip with theLGBTQ travel company VACAYA and their first cruise since sailing with Disney Cruise Line as a child.

"People were waving at us, and we were like the stars of our little dance pool. It was just freeing and fun, and not something that you get to necessarily feel like you can do," Moss said. "You can't pop over to your local YMCA and be like, 'Can I have a dance party in the pool?'"

Before booking the sailing, the retired professional weightlifter said many mainstream cruises seemed more geared toward heteronormative families and they hadn't considered booking one. But in the wake of the pandemic, the couple craved a relaxing vacation. Both jumped at a chance for Moss' girlfriend to be somewhere "culturally entirely queer"because she had not had as much experience socializing in LGBTQ+ spaces.

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For some LGBTQ+ travelers, gay cruises have offered a kind of haven on the seas. While early cruises catered primarily to gay men and lesbians, the market has grown in recent years, with more options aimed at a more diverse array of queer travelers.

'We have to be on guard a lot': Why safety comes first for so many LGBTQ travelers

When did LGBTQ+ cruises start?

Cruise operators that catered to gay and lesbian passengers began sailing in the '80s and '90s, according to a  timeline from IGLTA . 

"When it first started, it was somewhat underground and they were definitely more in the charter side of things ... where people could be together with members of their community and get away and be free from families or work, you know, be out, because the world was so different in the '80s," John Tanzella, president and CEO of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, said.

The sailings were a tougher sell back then, though."It was probably really hard to get a cruise line to take a gay group (in the early days)," Tanzella said.

In some cases, ships carrying LGBTQ+ passengers were turned away from ports, he added. By contrast, today, cruise lines are "going after the market," and destinations court those sailings and their loyal customer base. "You know, a port city might host a reception the night before the cruise departs, like going that extra mile to welcome the cruisers," Tanzella said. In addition to chartering entire ships, IGLTA has members that host groups on nonspecialty sailings too.

'I just want to see more of us': The importance of seeing people like you while traveling

Jon Fenwick went on his first gay cruise in 2008 with Atlantis Events after some friends talked him into it. The 46-year-old enjoyed the trip so much that he made it a tradition of it, taking at least one LGBTQ+ cruise annually most years since. And he isn't the only one.

"You definitely see a lot of the same faces from trip to trip, and a lot of people would go on the same ones every year just to have a reunion, or sometimes we call it gay summer camp," said Fenwick, a government information technology specialist based in Arlington, Virginia.

The options were also more limited and siloed, with cruises aimed primarily at gay men or lesbians, he added. Over the past decade or so, though, the industry has made an increased effort be inclusive, and somenew cruise operators targeting a diverse clientele have entered the market.

Fenwick has met other gay passengers on mainstream cruises but said the experience isn't the same, "You definitely don't have the (same) freedom to be yourself on a regular cruise."

'We are the majority'

VACAYA is among those new companies catering to a diverse audience, with an emphasis on the LGBTQ+ community, as well as straight allies. The company, which also offers land-based vacations, launched its first trips in 2019. 

"If you believe love is love, then you belong on a VACAYA vacation," said Patrick Gunn, the company's co-founder and CMO. The company has worked with Celebrity, Ponant, Emerald Cruises and others.

Those principles of inclusion guide what guests experience during their trip. VACAYA recently began giving out pronoun pins to help guests and staff use each other's preferred pronouns (the company also provides diversity and inclusion training to resort and cruise line partners).

The company also offers a wide range of programming. In addition to drag shows and pool parties, the VACAYA has also held a makeup seminar geared particularly toward nonbinary and transgender passengers.

"We believe in balance," Gunn said. "So, we love a good party, don't get me wrong, but we also love to wake up and go into port the next day."

On a March cruise that visited Panama, Colombia and more, passenger ages ranged from 21 to 91, according to co-founder and CEO Randle Roper. The company's clientele is predominantly gay men, but 20% of the sailing's guests were women.

Margaret Riedling, who joined VACAYA for the March sailing with her wife, found it refreshing. The 59-year-old had not taken an LGBTQ+ cruise since she was in her 20s.

"We have gay, straight, queer friends in our real lives," said Riedling, who lives in Spokane, Washington, and Palm Springs, California. "Why wouldn't we have them in our vacation life?"

Brand g Vacations, which was founded in 2011, also caters to a range of queer travelers, along with straight allies. The company offers river cruising, small-ship ocean cruises and land-based tours, according to its website.

That doesn't mean longer-running operators aren't inclusive. Among those, Atlantis is particularly popular among gay men but welcomes women, transgender and nonbinary guests, and "even straight parents," as well, CEO Rich Campbell said in an email.

And while Olivia Travel's guests primarily identify as cisgender lesbians and queer women, nonbinary and transgender guests have always been welcome, according to VP of marketing Autumn Nazarian.

For Roper's part, he said the kinds of sailings VACAYA aims to offer shift the dynamic LGBTQ+ people experience elsewhere, even if only for a week or two at a time.

"We all live in the minority every single day of our lives, and when we create these events, whether they're on a cruise ship or at a resort, we are the majority," he said.

Upcoming LGBTQ+ cruises

◾ Brand g Vacations will operate a Prague and Danube River itinerary – with two days in the Czech Republic city pre-cruise – from Aug. 12 through 21. Cabins on Amadeus River Cruises' Amadeus Silver III start at $4,499 per person based on double occupancy, according to Brand g's website .

◾ Atlantis is offering a voyage from Los Angeles to Mexico from Oct. 23 through 30, with stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and others. The cruise will take place on Royal Caribbean International's Navigator of the Seas ship, and available cabins start at $899 per person based on double occupancy, the company said on its website .

◾ VACAYA will sail a Caribbean cruise from Feb. 17-24, 2024, aboard Celebrity Apex. The cruise will stop in Puerto Rico, Antigua and more, and available rooms start at $2,297 per person based on double occupancy, according to the company's website .

◾ Olivia is operating a Sept. 21-28, 2024, sailing to Alaska. The sailing, on Holland America Line's Eurodam ship, will visit Juneau, Glacier Bay, Sitka and more, according to the company's website . Available rooms start at $1,299 per person based on double occupancy.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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The Atlantis Gay Cruise: Review and Essential Guide

We had wanted to go on an Atlantis gay cruise for years! This is  the gay cruise that everyone talks about and the Atlantis gay cruise in particular is one of the best known and hosts the biggest gay cruise in the world.

To us it looked like pure fun in the sun with all the different themed parties, visiting spectacular destinations and all held on-board a luxurious ship! However take a minute to look past the incredible parties and you will see there so much more to an Atlantis gay cruise.

We have been on many Atlantis gay cruises and after our first, all of our expectations were exceeded and our preconceptions challenged.

In our Atlantis gay cruise review and essential guide, we will share all our personal gay cruise experiences as well as answering all the questions you might have about going.

Here is what you need to know about going on an Atlantis gay cruise and why you need to go on one at least once in your lifetime.

What is an Atlantis Gay Cruise?

Atlantis events is a company that is has been running gay trips for over 30 years. They started small and now charter some of the largest cruise ships in the world to host multiple Atlantis Gay Cruises around the world.

This means that Atlantis will buy out (charter) an entire ship from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages or Norwegian Cruise lines, and then use the ship to run a gay cruise for normally 7 nights.

By chartering the ship exclusively for Atlantis guests, Atlantis can then run their own programme of events, parties and activities catered to gay travellers.

Who goes on an Atlantis Gay Cruise?

We had some big preconceptions here, we thought it was only the sterotypical poster muscle boys and we were a little intimidated – however, and this is a recuring theme in this gay cruise review, we were wrong.

Yes there are plenty of poster boys, but having done multiple gay cruises we have seen every body type represented and celebrated, every age and people from all over the world. It’s amazing to see people just let loose and enjoy themselves no matter their body type.

Do not worry about your body, just turn up as you are and you are sure to have a great time! If you want to smash the gym pre-cruise that is also fine – it is all about what is good for you!

In terms of gender and sexuality, anyone is welcome to book an Atlantis gay cruise, we have met straight couples and lesbians onboard, but it is 90+% gay men.

We have also met plenty of solo travellers, couples, groups of friends, throuples and everything inbetween

Don’t take our word for it, read from other guests about who goes on gay cruise .

Are Atlantis gay cruises friendly?

For our first sailing, we didn’t know what types of people we would be meeting on-board. We had seen in advance through various Facebook groups that there were a lot of large groups of friends, and this being our first cruise and not knowing anybody in advance we were worried that it might feel ‘clique-y’ and that we might not fit in.

It turns out we were completely wrong.

Without a doubt the environment on the Atlantis gay cruise ship was the most friendly and welcoming environment we have ever encountered in our lives.

People would talk to you at every opportunity and it felt refreshing to experience this – people were just genuinely nice. We really wish it was like this in day to day life, people don’t talk to each other enough or simply ask how your day is going.

You will meet so many people and some will become lifelong friends – given that there are thousandss of people on-board and they booked immediately for the following year, you can see how the community builds and builds.

We purposely go on the same sailing each year to see a lot of familiar faces.

What are the parties like on an Atlantis Cruise?

The parties on an Atlantis gay cruise are a full scale production, exactly like you would expect from any big gay circuit party with international DJ’s and the party locations being turned into jungles, under the sea worlds or whatever the theme might be.

What are the Atlantis Cruise Party Themes?

On the topic of themes, we love to party and we (Sion mainly) loves a themed party.

For every cruise both the day time parties (T-Dance parties around 3pm) and the night time parties (around 11pm until as late at 9am sometimes!) have themes.

Guaranteed party themes include the dog tag T-Dance (military style), the White Party and the Disco T-Dance – other nights take on a range of themes (more below).

People get incredibly creative and you can wear anything you want at all.

Do people have ടex at the parties?

You will see everything at the parties, and by everything we mean everything.

This is not a bad thing at all in our eyes. In fact it’s quite liberating to see people taking the social stigma away from enjoying ടex and feeling free enough to do whatever they want – no one seemed to mind or care and everyone just seemed to have a good time! Do be mindful of staff, for the most part it’s deep in the crowd.

This extends well into the early hours of the morning…especially on certain ships that have the D*** Deck.

What do people wear on an Atlantis Gay Cruise?

Keeping on the theme of the parties, you might decide to wear very little (i.e just a jockstrap), be nervous stood in your room (like we were the first time) and then get to the party and realise you had nothing to worry about – no one judges you and it is super liberating!

On the other hand we have seen people dress full on as jelly fish, sea gods and polar bears!

We have an entire post on ‘What to pack for a gay cruise’ but here are the typical themes you can expect to see every year are:

• White Party – the name says it all, wear all white. You can go all out and maybe don some angel wings , these white elastic body harnesses are a cheap and easy option for anyone or you can simply wear a white vest and shorts. We have never seen so many bare bums so feel absolutely free to simply grab yourself a white jockstrap and get ready to party!
• Dog Tag T-Dance – This one is all about the military – think black, green and camo. Grab some camo speedos , some trainers or boots and you are good to go. If you want to take it further, you will see a lot of guys wearing a good quality leather chest harness and maybe getting into character with some face paints too. 
• Disco Theme – We have never seen so much gold fabric! For this party, grab yourself a comedy disco wig , some gold pants  or maybe a ridiculous 70’s style shirt!

JJ Malibu tick all the boxes for ‘gay’ party attire and we stocked up before going on our first cruise (as you can tell in all these photos!). They have whole sections on their website for white parties, military themed parties, circuit parties etc.

In previous years the additional themes were ‘Under the Sea’ – think cheeky sailors; ‘Champions’ – think sports; Jungle and ‘Playground’ – cartoon characters and so on.

What to pack for an Atlantis gay cruise?

There is so much more to consider! Outfits, cruise cards to keep in touch with all your new friends, white boards. And we especially wish we had taken earplugs! The music was LOUD!

For the full list check out our list ‘ What to pack for a gay cruise ’.

Is an Atlantis Gay Cruise all about the parties?

We fully understand that parties are not for everyone, and so if you don’t want to go to them, simply don’t. You are probably on one of the largest and most luxurious cruise ships in the world and there is so much else to enjoy.

You have the shows to watch, whether this be theatre based shows like Mamma Mia, or the incredible acrobatic Airotic show. The food is great and each night you can enjoy a 3 course or more fine dining experience. There are usually sports courts, climbing walls, surf riders, and more bars and cafes than you attend.

There is something for everyone so if you don’t like to party, do not worry, you will still have the best time in the friendliest environment.

What are the staff like on an Atlantis cruise?

Now you might be thinking ‘what about the poor staff?’

After speaking to many members of staff on-board they all know what to expect and in fact some actively volunteer to work on an Atlantis gay cruise. One member of staff even went as far to say “it was her favourite charter of the year regardless of destinations”. They say as a group we are friendlier, politer, more fun and tip more – and they even party with us! They also enjoy not having screaming kids and, in some cases, entitled parents on board!

We don’t need to tell you, but the staff do deserve so much respect and it was lovely to see everyone giving it to them!

Is there a compromise on cruise quality?

Cruises are known for being high end vacations with exceptional service from the staff, exceptional food and the best facilities.

Just because this is a gay cruise with a heavy focus on partying does not mean that this is any less true. We thoroughly enjoyed the meals on the evening in the a-la-carte restaurant and did not miss one meal!

We made it to a couple of shows during our cruise too, before getting ready for the evening parties. And we even bravely fought the hangover to try the flow-rider, the climbing wall and on-board ziplines too!

The staff as we have already said, go above and beyond to help in anyway they can and the facilities on board the ship were top class.

The same can be said for the destinations – please make sure to drag yourself off the ship for a few places. This year we loved the water in the Bahamas, the vibe of Cozumel and the pool side bars in Costa Maya.

If you want an amazing cruise experience, you are still going to get one!

Do you need wifi on a Gay Cruise?

In all honesty, the wifi is not worth it. We know many people get it so they can stay active on Grindr, but actually most of the time location services does not work so neither do location based apps like Grindr or Scruff.

If you really need it occasionally then get it at the port without spending hundreds of dollars.

Like we said, everyone is super friendly, you don’t need an app to hook-up, if you want it you got it!

There is also an onboard app for free on Royal Caribbean Sailings you can use to message between rooms, this is what we did with our friends.

The one thing wifi can be useful for is when making new friends and trying to keep in contact on social media whilst onboard since not everyone checks the ship app.

What are the shows like on an Atlantis gay cruise?

We fully understand the temptation to go for a pre-party nap each night but the shows are really quite special.

The one that we loved the most this year was called Airotic. The show has many incredibly talented aerial performers showcasing their skills in silks, hoops, pole and many other disciplines. They absolutely know how to put on a show and it helps that the performers look incredible in their minimal costumes. A very impressive and sensual show indeed!

The other show we saw was the classic Mamma Mia! which we enjoyed, other nights showcased popular gay comedians . You are paying for the entertainment so you should definitely go and see it!

Is an Atlantis Cruise just a floating gay ടex cruise

It can be if you want it to be and that is absolutely fine , gay cruise ടex is widely available!

But the ship is so large with so much going on you could be in your own little world while all the “frolics” take place elsewhere – it is your vacation and you make it what you want and leave your judgement at home.

How much does an Atlantis Gay Cruise cost?

Naturally, a gay cruise is more expensive than an everyday sailing but you really can’t compare the two.

Prices per person for the week range from about $1,200 plus taxes per person at the lower end to much higher for the suites etc.

It’s not a cheap week but we always feel it is great value for money, mainly because you can’t get the same experience anywhere else.

Is an Atlantis Gay Cruise All Inclusive/ can you bring Alcohol?

In terms of what is included on an Atlantis Gay Cruise, it is all of your food, water, basic teas/coffee, parties, shows and entertainment.

Drinks are additional and depending on which ship they use you can sometimes get bulks buys or packages. You don’t normally have access to unlimited alcohol packages like you might on an everyday cruise (and it is easy to guess why!)

Like all cruises, you are not meant to bring your own alcohol onboard and this can be conviscated. However it is worth noting for a Royal Caribbean Atlantis Cruise you can bring two bottles of wine per stateroom.

Our final word -PACE YOURSELF!!!

There is so much going on at all hours of the day, and if you try and attend between 2-3 parties a day you will burn out! It is totally OK to take a night off!

We both get serious FOMO but knew we would not make it to the end of the week if we did not have a mid week rest and we ended up sleeping for 12 hours!

When is the next Atlantis Gay Cruise?

Atlantis run gay cruises throughout the year across many different destinations, for the most up to date dates and locations head to their website .

We are itching to book our next Atlantis Gay Cruise!

Atlantis Gay Cruise: Review Conclusion

An Atlantis gay cruise is an experience we know we will never find anywhere else in any circumstance.

The entire week felt like we were in ‘gay-topia’, surrounded by a protective little bubble from the outside world!  It was an incredible feeling of liberation, freedom, community and happiness.

The ships are beautiful, the staff incredible, the parties out of this world and you will make friends to last a lifetime.

Our biggest message from this post is just come on-board and truly, truly BE YOURSELF and feel liberated.

We hope you enjoyed our gay cruise review.

Once you have done your first one, we are pretty sure you will want to go back. Let us know your own gay cruise stories in the comments below!

Want to know more about being gay at sea? Check out:

• Join us on our Gay Sailing trip to Croatia!
• Are Celebrity Cruises Gay Friendly?
• What to pack for a gay cruise?

Liked this post? Don’t forget to pin it!

P.s don’t forget to follow our  Facebook  page,  YouTube  page and  Instagram  to see more and keep up to date!

Saturday 11th of January 2020

Do you happen to know about when booking opens up for the Jan 2021 Atlantis cruise? We are wanting to get a suite cabin and we know they are limited so we want to be prepared when it becomes available.

PAUL TASKER

Saturday 2nd of November 2019

I've booked my first ever gay Atlantis cruise next march 2020 from.puerto rico im a solo traveller and am very nervous as ive chosen the single sharer option

Tuesday 13th of August 2019

It was such an amazing cruise... Will you boys being going again this January?

The Globetrotter Guys

Sunday 8th of September 2019

Yes! We booked for January 2020 almost immediately after this years :)

• Travel Guides
• Published March, 2021
• Home » Blog » My Atlantis Gay Cruise

My Atlantis Gay Cruise Trip – What It Was Like

The Atlantis Gay Cruise Experience, First-Hand

While most of us have seen an Atlantis gay cruise via social media or advertisements, you’re probably still wondering…what are these Atlantis gay cruises really like?

Johnathan N. from New York shares his personal experience joining an Atlantis cruise, telling it like it is and offering useful tips for travelers interested in booking!

What Did You Like Best About the Atlantis Cruise?

Total inclusivity on a massive scale was definitely the best part of joining an Atlantis Cruise. I’ve done some other gay vacations, but a huge gay cruise like this is pretty unique.

Other trips for international gay pride events, ski weeks, and events like Gay Days are great, but the Atlantis Gay Cruise just felt grander. Plus, everything was catered to the gay community.

How Were the Atlantis Gay Cruise Theme Parties?

I thought the Atlantis theme parties were awesome. But I wish I had a little more time to plan out the costumes. I think Atlantis gave us a 2-week notice of the theme, but even so, it was a lot of fun. I had a blast.

Some of the commonly hosted themes include the Glow Party, White Party Dog Tag Tea Dance, and the Disco Tea Dance. So, at a minimum, you can start prepping the gay party accessories that you can wear to these.

wolfyy’s Travel Shop → Everything from underwear to luggage .

Any Recommendations for Which Rooms to Book?

Since there’s so much to do on the ship, you honestly don’t spend much time in your room. So, I wouldn’t stress out about which specific room you book.

If you’ve got the cash for a veranda and totally need that ocean view, then go for it. But in my opinion, an interior room is completely fine if you’re on a budget. Plus, if you book a budget room, you’ll have more money for the expensive booze!

The smaller interior rooms usually start around $1200 USD for two people, plus fees. When you have more than 2 guests sharing a room, there’s an additional fee. 

Oceanview and balcony rooms for two people can run anywhere from $1200 to $2400. And then when it comes to suites, prices can easily exceed $5000.

Is the Atmosphere Super Sexually Charged?

The sexual vibe depends on where you hang out on the ship. Without a doubt, there are areas where things are very sexy. On the dick deck at 10 PM, yes…you will get groped… and then some.

The rest of the boat is a bit more relaxed. It can sometimes be “cruisy” but it’s definitely not all sex, sex, sex. Lots of first-timers expect Atlantis gay cruises to be a constant sex party, but it’s not exactly like that.

The Atlantis cruise I went on offered singles events. These can really help solo travelers or anyone who’s shy get out of their shell. I personally can’t fully credit the Atlantis Cruise event for meeting my newest travel buddy at the time. (We met the night before at a hotel rooftop).

But, we quickly found ourselves in an “it’s complicated” situation and ended up spending 95% of our time on the ship together.

What Should Travelers Bring on an Atlantis Gay Cruise?

Most importantly, you’ve got to bring some sexy swimwear attire. Check out my extensive list of the best gay swimwear brands . Get ideas from bikini thongs to printed trunks, plus everything in between.

People really get into decorating their room doors, too. While I didn’t on my first cruise I will do it on my next one. Most people pack mini dry erase boards to hang on their door along with photos so everyone can get a sneak peek of who’s in the cabin.

I’ve even seen some groups stick a small ticket box to their door along with some little colorful sticky notes so people can leave secret messages. It’s pretty cute.

I would really encourage getting some costumes for the themed parties. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on them, but you will feel a little out of place if you don’t participate.

At the very least, throw on a harness , a sexy jockstrap , and some shorts you wouldn’t mind losing! I definitely recommend getting some good circuit party gear for the trip.

Oh, and like any cruise, don’t forget your sunscreen , especially since it’s so expensive on the ship.

Related → wolfyy’s Gay Men’s Harness Guide

Did You Witness a “Lack of Diversity” Issue on the Cruise?

This was not the case in my experience. However, I did go on an international cruise, not a domestic one. Perhaps those could be different. There were people from every continent on mine, and it was a great time.

Can Atlantis Gay Cruises Be Overwhelming for First-Timers?

Real talk—I had a panic attack as we landed in Barcelona . I was traveling alone which I have done many times before. But for some reason, the idea of getting on a 5000+ person gay cruise hit me like a brick wall. Later that night, my anxiety started to go away, and getting on the ship the following day was fine.

I think it’s important to know that every Atlantis gay cruise has so many programmed events happening, that it’s truly impossible to do everything. It’s kind of by design.

The entire experience is sort of a “choose your own adventure” and that’s really what makes it so unique.

Want to go to a circuit party ? Great. Feeling horny and need a little help? Head to the dick deck. Feel like you overdid it the night before and need a more mellow night? Go to one of the many gay comedy, musical, piano bar, or drag shows happening on the ship.

Anything You Didn’t Like About the Cruise?

Honestly, the amount of money I spent on booze. It adds up. Ha!

Any Other Tips?

Some people don’t leave the ship when docked at the ports. It seems most people do on the international cruises, but it sounds like the gay cruises out of Miami and San Diego are pretty much constant circuit parties .

Atlantis gay cruises can get quite expensive, so there generally wasn’t a huge number of younger people. Unless it was a “daddy” situation I would say 20 somethings made up less than 10% of the attendees.

Your Gay Cruise Alternatives

Gay guys are booking Atlantis cruises like crazy, especially now that we’re out of the woods regarding the pandemic. Check out some of the other scheduled Atlantis Cruises you can join.

If you’re thinking about browsing some tamer or not-so-gay cruises, there are plenty of fun alternatives.

There are several bear weeks that take place on huge cruises. These are definitely worth a look, including the Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady .

Cruise Critic  compiles a huge range of the best international cruises. Definitely check your booking options here as well.

Looking for other gay vacation options? Check out these epic gay sailing trips in the Mediterranean!

Explore the world with inspiration from wolfyy’s collection of   gay travel guides .

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These Are the Most Popular Spots Where the Gays Love to Go Cruising

Here's where the gays love to cruise....

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Cruising has been part of gay culture since the beginning of gay time. For much of our history, cruising – the act of going to a “cruising ground” to walk or drive around and search for a casual sex partner – has been a way to meet other gay men and have sex with them with discretion and anonymity.

Still, even with queerness being more socially accepted and legal in years past, cruising exists as a proud tradition and still-necessary activity. Even for people who don’t need the protection of anonymity and inside knowledge of gay culture, cruising can be an important part of learning about your sexuality, exploring, kink, and relationships.

While cruising is not as big a part of queer culture as it perhaps used to be, there are still many in the queer community who take part, and as part of their year-end DownLoad 2023 round-up , the popular cruising app Sniffies has collected information on where guys still like to cruise.

Here are the top five locations where the gays love to go cruise!

5. Universities

College is a place for exploring and experimenting, and cruising is one of the best ways to do both of those things!

The gym is already home to men sweating, grunting, showering, changing in front of each other, and deep male bonding, so it's the perfect place to add a little casual, anonymous sex.

3. Residential buildings

If the outdoors and public spaces are a little too... public for you, residential towers might be your ideal cruising spot! It still offers the anonymity and casual hookup nature of cruising, but with a little more control and safety.

2. Public restrooms

Public restroom sex is dirty, nasty, dangerous, and sexy as hell. Public restrooms have always been a classic cruising spot, and we don't see that going away any time soon.

1. The park

The ultimate cruising spot. Most major cities have at least one park that is well known, at least in the gay community, for cruising. There's lots of space to wander around, lots of poeple who come to the park to just walk around, plenty of secluded spots, and the beauty of nature.

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Secret Signals: How Some Men Cruise for Sex

Men use signals like foot tapping when cruising for gay sex in public.

Aug. 28, 2007 — -- While many Americans may only be vaguely familiar with the idea of "cruising," there is a secret world of sex between men that exists in public places across the country.

The police officer who arrested Sen. Larry Craig, R-Idaho, in a men's restroom at the Minneapolis airport for allegedly looking to engage in gay sex wrote in his June report that he "recognized a signal used by persons wishing to engage in lewd conduct."

Craig tapped his foot up and down and swiped his hand underneath the bathroom stall in which the undercover cop was sitting, according to the police report.

Those actions led to Craig's arrest by Detective Dave Karsnia and the senator's guilty plea to a disorderly conduct charge. Craig told reporters today that he did nothing inappropriate and said his guilty plea was a mistake.

Public places like men's restrooms, in airports and train stations, truck stops, university libraries and parks, have long been places where gay and bisexual men, particularly those in the closet, congregate in order to meet for anonymous sex.

Over time, people familiar with cruising told ABCNEWS.com, gay men began using a codified system of signals to indicate to others that they were interested in sex. In an effort to curb lewd acts in public — or as some gays argue, in an effort to persecute gay men — undercover police began sting operations in places known for sex soliciting and employed the same codes.

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"Tapping of the foot is pretty standard for men who cruise in toilets," said Keith Griffith, owner of Cruisingforsex.com, a Web site on which visitors post locations popular with men looking for anonymous sex.

"They will usually go to the stall at the far end of the strip of toilets. They will see each other and usually decide to go someplace else. The vast majority have no interest in being seen. They may be meeting in public locations, but they will be as discreet as possible," Griffith said.

Cruising areas traditionally have been those parts of town "women and children are told to avoid," but through word of mouth, bathrooms at places like Wal-Mart or Home Depot can become cruising locales, he said.

Griffith said that officers involved in such stings tend to be young and that anecdotal posts on his site indicate the local arrest rates increase around the time of elections or when media attention focuses on the issue.

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Cruising to Equality? The Cruise Industry & LGBTQ+ Rights

Gay cruises helped establish the LGBTQ+ tourism market — and gain civil rights. Has the ship now sailed?

In “Cruising to Equality: Tourism, U.S. Homonationalism, and the Lesbian and Gay Family Market,” author Liz Montegary wrote (as she explains now) that “spending money in local and global tourism markets increased the visibility of ‘respectable,’ economically privilegedm lesbian and gay parents and, in doing so, strengthened lesbian and gay demands for marital and parental rights.”

The focus of her study was the LGBTQ + family cruise company R Family Vacations. 

Montegary is now director of graduate studies at Stony Brook University’s Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and author of the 2018 book Familiar Perversions: The Racial, Sexual, and Economic Politics of LGBT Families . In the nearly two decades since  R Family  launched, the LGBTQ+ cruise industry has been dramatically transformed. (Read how R Family is changing as well ) . And while marriage equality is currently the law of the land, parental rights are under threat and a Supreme Court justice wants to undo our marriages. I

In this conversation we talk to Montegary about the connection between cruising and equality.  

Has cruising contributed to LGBTQ+ equality?

I think cruising has played a role in moving some LGBTQ+ people toward equality, but I also think it has contributed to moving other LGBTQ+ people further from equality.

The cruise industry helped establish the LGBTQ+ tourism market — and gain rights. But has it gone far enough?

As companies began more aggressively courting “pink dollars” over the course of the 1990s, group-based commercial activities, like tourism, took on new meaning. Lesbian and gay identity was organized around a shared set of desires — not just in terms of same-sex eroticism but now around shared consumer wants and common political interests. Within this context, private acts of consumption — like booking a cruise — could be experienced as politicized public acts. Not only were these travelers doing the political work of building community, they were also increasing their visibility as valuable consumers deserving of state recognition and legal protections.

Now for my but . Tourism is only a liberatory site for LGBTQ+ travelers equipped with the bodies, resources, legal status, and cultural capital needed to engage in leisure travel. By increasing the visibility of gender conforming, economically privileged, and able-bodied/ minded LGBTQ+ citizens, the industry effectively marginalizes those who cannot or will not conform to the white middleclass norms of consumer culture.

I’m not convinced “equality” is the thing we should be cruising toward. This is not to say legal rights and protections don’t matter. They most certainly do! But, over the past few decades, demands for LGBTQ+ “equality” have been disconnected from racial, economic, and disability justice. Rather than focusing on structural change and the redistribution of wealth and life chances, movements for “equality” have narrowly focused on gaining access to the military, marriage and the family, consumer culture, etc. — the very institutions that cause harm and unevenly allocate material resources.

Talk about mobility justice and how it relates to the cruising industry.

This conceptual framework understands mobility as an unfairly distributed resource and analyzes the structures that make the freedom of movement possible for some and impossible for others. Mobilities researchers pay particular attention to the fact that the mobility of certain individuals often depends upon the containment or displacement of others. The expansion of the cruise industry, in particular, has had devastating economic and environmental effects on local populations and ecosystems…. [And] cruising threatens to always be at odds with truly transnational justice movements for gender and sexual liberation.

Some LGBTQ+ travelers now prefer to travel on mainstream cruises.

I’m quite intrigued by the rise of “inclusive” mainstream cruise packages. Cruises emerged as an incredibly popular and profitable venue for hosting communitybuilding vacations. The perceived safety of the cruise ship was especially appealing for [queer] tourists. The availability of “inclusive” vacation options marks a break from the industry’s earlier attempts to sell the fantasy of escaping the straight world and sailing away in a queer utopia. Instead, these companies hold out the promise of inclusion and assimilation.

I can’t help recalling a conversation I had with students a few years ago. My students were appalled to learn lesbians and gay men have been forced to vacation separately. I was so caught off guard that I almost cracked up:  Why on Earth would queers want to travel with straights?!  I eventually pulled myself together, and we had an interesting conversation about community-building projects…but [they] remained uncomfortable with the idea of “segregating” the queers from the straights. 

Anything else you’d like to share about LGBTQ+ cruises?

I wanted to clarify that, regardless of how companies market their cruises, we can’t be totally sure how people will use the space of the ship. In the longer version of my “Cruising to Equality” article (which is chapter 2 of Familiar Perversions), I talk about some of the unexpected encounters I had while on my Alaska cruise.

Take, for example, the group of 40-something-year-old gay men, all of whom identified as bears. For them, the appeal of R Family was not the child-friendly aspect but rather the sexually flexible space that refused to abide by the ageist and fatphobic bodily norms associated with most all-male gay cruises.

Or, consider the contingent of white gay men in their thirties…. According to them, the hot tubs had been a prime spot for being cruised by dads who were looking for some fun after putting their kids to bed.

So, even as I wonder (and maybe worry) about what might be a growing preference for “inclusive” vacation opportunities, I want to acknowledge that people don’t always use spaces in the way they are intended. I have the utmost of faith in the capacity of queer sexual cultures to permeate these new configurations. And we can’t really know what kinds of queer desires and alliances — erotic, political, or otherwise — might take shape on the decks of these “gay-friendly” cruises.

Find more of our cruise coverage here.

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The Ultimate Gay Cruise Guide

Atlantis cruises.

LA to Mexico Cruise

October 23 – 30, 2023.

Get ready for the biggest party in the West when Atlantis takes over the massive Navigator of the Seas for a week of non-stop thrills and epic adventures. Sail from LA to Mexico’s best beaches with 3100 guys from around the world. With more incredible places for a party than any other ship, Navigator is the perfect setting for our friendliest and easiest cruise of the year. With fares starting at just $899 it’s the best deal ever in all-gay vacations!

Singapore to Bangkok Cruise

November 11 – 20, 2023.

Atlantis returns to Asia in a big way in 2023 with an all-new, all-gay cruise from Singapore to Bangkok. In 9 magical nights, you’ll explore five of the world’s enthralling destinations from island paradises to thriving metropolises to fascinating temples. All as we sail the magnificent Norwegian Jewel, recently upgraded in every way and the perfect ship for exploring and enjoying all that Atlantis has to offer.

Get onboard this once in a lifetime exotic adventure for 2100 guys from all corners of the planet. There’s never been an Atlantis cruise like this with amazing low fares starting at just $1099 for 9 nights of pure magic.

Oasis Caribbean Cruise

January 21 – 28, 2024.

Get onboard our all-new edition of the most outrageously fun cruise Atlantis has ever created! We’re sailing the fantastic Oasis of the Seas from Miami to four thrilling Caribbean islands to create a star-studded festival of pure excitement unlike anything you’ve ever imagined.   

Join 5200 guys from around the world for seven fabulous nights packed full of awe-inspiring parties, superstar performers, great friends, and endless surprises. There’s nothing like the Atlantis January cruise on sea or land. You have to experience this one for yourself.

Virgin Exotic Southern Caribbean Cruise

March 16 – 23, 2024.

Atlantis charts a new course in 2024 when we set sail on Richard Branson’s Virgin Voyages from San Juan to four of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Discover a new way to play with unforgettable experiences everywhere! In seven magical nights you’ll discover jaw-dropping entertainment, fabulously original dining, gorgeous design, spectacular service and so much more on the dazzling new Brilliant Lady. It’s the perfect match of Virgin Voyages design plus Atlantis’ sensational entertainment and fun!

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Cruise itinerary.

• October 23 Los Angeles, CA Depart 4:00 pm
• October 24 Awesome Day at Sea
• October 25 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 6:00 pm
• October 26 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Arrive 11:00 am -
• October 27 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Depart 2:00 am
• October 27 Mazatlán, Mexico Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 6:00 pm
• October 28 Great Day at Sea
• October 29 Relaxing Day at Sea
• October 30 Los Angeles, CA Arrive 6:00 am
• November 11 Singapore, Singapore Depart 7:00 pm
• November 12 Port Klang (Kuala Lampur), Malaysia Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 7:00 pm
• November 13 Langkawi Island, Malaysia Arrive 11:00 am - Depart 7:00 pm
• November 14 A Relaxing Day At Sea
• November 15 Playful Day at Sea
• November 16 Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam Arrive 8:00 am - Depart 11:59 pm
• November 17 An Indulgent Day at Sea
• November 18 Sihanoukville, Cambodia Arrive 7:00 am - Depart 7:00 pm
• November 19 Ko Samui, Thailand Arrive 8:00 am - Depart 6:00 pm
• November 20 Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand Arrive 6:00 am
• January 21 Miami Depart 4:30 pm
• January 22 Nassau, Bahamas Arrive 8:00 am - Depart 4:00 pm
• January 23 Coco Cay, Bahamas Arrive 7:00 am - Depart 5:00 pm
• January 24 Extraordinary Day at Sea
• January 25 Labadee, Haiti Arrive 8:00 am - Depart 5:00 pm
• January 26 Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Arrive 10:00 am - Depart 6:00 pm
• January 27 Awesome Day at Sea
• January 28 Miami Arrive 7:00 am
• March 16 San Juan, Puerto Rico Depart 8:30 pm
• March 17 Epic Day at Sea
• March 18 Oranjestad, Aruba Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 11:59 pm
• March 19 Willemstad, Curacao Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 11:59 pm
• March 20 Relaxing Day at Sea
• March 21 Martinique Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 7:00 pm
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• March 23 San Juan, Puerto Rico Arrive 7:00 am
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I Went on My First Gay Cruise — Here's What It Was Like

Here's why I chose vacation company Vacaya to book my first gay cruise.

Nonstop parties, unwarranted comments, and a lack of diversity were a few reasons why I avoided booking a gay cruise. However, that changed with Vacaya, a large-scale adults-only vacation company that touts its inclusivity to the entire LGBTQ+ community and our straight allies.

I've always been insecure about my weight, and if the marketing strategy for an LGBTQ+ cruise, vacation, or tour company doesn't include me or make me feel seen — as a chubby Black gay man — I avoid it. But when I was offered the opportunity to sail with Vacaya, I asked a few friends about their gay cruise experiences — specifically, about the company's chartered sailings and resort vacations. I heard words and phrases like "diverse," "body positive," and "it is what you make it" — and that made me happy.

So, I decided to step outside of my comfort zone and join more than 1,500 passengers aboard the Celebrity Millennium for a seven-day Caribbean cruise with stops in Aruba and Curaçao.

A Conscious Decision to Be Inclusive

After a couple of hours on the ship, before leaving Port Everglades in Hollywood, Florida, I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity of passengers boarding. The age of passengers skewed older, but it was a microcosm of the LGBTQ+ community — different ethnicities, sexual orientations, and more. Even before setting sail, some of my preconceived notions about gay cruises seemed to fade.

That same diversity also extended to Vacaya 's programming and entertainment. Glee star Amber Riley paid homage to soulful divas like Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin, and Whitney Houston. Actress Susie Mosher added comedic levity as the host of a show where fearless passengers sang their favorite tunes. The Skivvies performed a roster of music mash-ups with high-brow humor, comedians Gene Moore and Geneva Joy made us laugh until we cried, actress Marilu Henner dished about her Hollywood career, and drag queen Shangela took center stage for an engaging show that included a tribute to Beyonce.

Throughout the cruise, passengers went all out dressing up in elaborate costumes to show off their creativity at theme parties — usually with DJs Corey Craig or Susan Morabito at the helm. The DJs largely catered to an audience who preferred electronic dance music (EDM), and some passengers, including myself, wished there was a bit more variety.

"There were different ethnicities on board: Black, white, Spanish, and Asian. Vacaya should consider adding a little Afrobeat and other music genres that people can enjoy," said Samira Alston, an African American bisexual passenger from Brooklyn, New York.

Meeting people like Alston was easy. There was a strong sense of community on board, and it was an effortless, stress-free process to connect with different people and exchange cruise cards — one way to stay in touch on the ship.

I met several people, including Ken, who drove 12 hours from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to go on his first gay cruise; Eric and his partner, Jason, from Tacoma, Washington, who chatted about how they met, Jason's "coming out" story, and his amicable divorce from his ex-wife; and Oscar, a passenger from L.A., who was single and ready to mingle after a divorce from his ex-husband.

I discovered that a gay cruise allows us to be fully ourselves in a respectful environment, reuniting with old friends from previous cruises and cultivating new friendships that go beyond our seven-day journey.

The Nitty-gritty of Cruising

This wasn't a typical vacation for me as I had to work, so I paid for Celebrity's Xcelerate Stream package for two devices (phone and laptop). The unsecured Wi-Fi access was spotty and slow in my cabin, and I often had to go to public areas for better reception. If you can, I recommend skipping the Wi-Fi charge and truly unplugging.

True for many cruises, there are also separate prepaid packages for dining and beverages. I was more than happy to eat most of my meals at the Oceanview Cafe , an international buffet serving Mexican, British, Italian, Asian, and other cuisines. I splurged an extra $45 to eat at the Tuscan Grille , and was also invited to try Le Petit Chef , which blends 3D tabletop entertainment with a delicious four-course meal. I don't drink much, so I opted out of purchasing a beverage package and paid for cocktails and wine as needed — primarily for the poolside parties.

As for activities, the shore excursions in Aruba offered a variety of beach, wildlife, and immersive experiences. In Curaçao, I visited the Dolphin Academy for an up-close animal encounter. It's worth noting that this three-hour experience costs $159 (excluding lunch) and included waiting a considerable amount of time for the 15-minute dolphin show, which may be underwhelming for some.

Cruise Travel During a Pandemic

These days, it's impossible to discuss cruise travel without mentioning the elephant in the room: COVID-19. A week before I was scheduled to depart, a Royal Caribbean ship (not a Vacaya chartered cruise) was turned away from Aruba and Curaçao due to the number of positive COVID cases on board. So, I was concerned that we wouldn't be able to stop at the same ports, too.

I made the conscious decision to go on a cruise, understanding the potential risks, even as a fully vaccinated person. All passengers had to provide negative COVID-19 test results no more than 48 hours before the day we set sail. I took an at-home test, a rapid antigen test at Reagan National Airport, and ordered a 10-pack of N95 masks . And when it came to the poolside theme parties, I enjoyed them from the top balcony to avoid the large crowds below. Passengers were diligent about adhering to Celebrity's protocols to mask up for all indoor performances and activities.

Bill Onieal and Ryan Focht understood the precautions necessary to stay safe on the cruise. Onieal is a nurse with 13 years of experience in the emergency department, having also worked in palliative care and special needs pediatrics, and Focht is a chemist working in preclinical toxicology research. From Jersey City, New Jersey, the engaged couple is fully vaccinated, received their booster shots, and gets tested regularly because of their professions, but Onieal said, "There's always the chance that we may contract COVID."

"The safety measures that were implemented were the only reason we felt safe attending a Vacaya cruise during the pandemic," said Focht. "Celebrity and Vacaya were transparent about their contact-tracing protocols."

Of course, doing all the right things doesn't entirely erase the risk of COVID. In a post-cruise press release, Vacaya cofounder and CEO Randle Roper said, "Over the course of the week, 27 guests tested positive and were placed in insolation, and 72 additional guests who'd been in close contact with a positive person were tested, placed in quarantine for the recommended 24 hours, and retested before being declared COVID-free and released."

Final Takeaways

Looking back on my cruise, I would do it again as a solo traveler. In fact, a few friends and I have already discussed the possibility of booking Vacaya's fifth-anniversary Caribbean cruise on the Celebrity Reflection , scheduled for February 2023. Celebrity's safety protocols and Vacaya's attention to detail, transparency, and inclusive vibe and strategy are all reasons why I was able to enjoy my first gay cruise and return home COVID-free.

The 9 Best Gay Cruises for 2024 (+ Planning Tips)

W hether 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.)

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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.

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

Atlantis Events

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

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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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

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

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.

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

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.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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.

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