Cruising is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the world, offering convenience, luxury, and diverse destinations all in one trip. For LGBTQIA+ travelers, it’s important to find a cruise line that fosters an inclusive, safe, and fun atmosphere. Luckily, many cruise lines are dedicated to creating a welcoming space for gay passengers, from hosting LGBTQIA+ meetups to offering special all-gay charters. Here are the top eight cruise lines perfect for gay travelers, ensuring an unforgettable experience in 2024.
1. Atlantis Events: The Leader in All-Gay Cruises
Best for: Party lovers and those seeking an all-gay environment
Why it’s great: Atlantis Events has been setting the standard for all-gay cruises for decades. Their chartered cruises transform some of the biggest ships into an all-gay floating festival, complete with incredible themed parties, world-class DJs, and entertainment from LGBTQIA+ icons. With everything from tropical getaways to European voyages, Atlantis promises a thrilling and inclusive experience.
2024 Highlight: A 10-night Mediterranean voyage with stops in Barcelona, Ibiza, and Naples, featuring non-stop entertainment and fabulous parties.
2. VACAYA: The New Standard for LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity
Best for: Diverse travelers and inclusivity seekers
Why it’s great: VACAYA is a newcomer in the LGBTQIA+ cruise market, but it’s already making waves with its commitment to inclusivity. Whether you’re gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, or an ally, VACAYA welcomes everyone. Their cruises combine luxury with a focus on building community, offering a diverse array of onboard and onshore activities.
2024 Highlight: A 7-night all-inclusive Caribbean cruise, featuring stops at LGBTQIA+ friendly destinations like Cozumel and Key West, with wellness programs, nightly entertainment, and exciting shore excursions.
3. Celebrity Cruises: Pride at Sea
Best for: Upscale travelers who appreciate luxury and modernity
Why it’s great: Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its sleek, modern ships and commitment to inclusivity. Their “Pride at Sea” event each June features onboard Pride celebrations, parades, and themed parties, creating an environment that truly celebrates LGBTQIA+ pride. Celebrity’s stylish atmosphere and luxurious amenities make it a great choice for gay travelers looking for a more upscale cruise experience.
2024 Highlight: A 9-night Greek Isles cruise during Pride Month, with stops in Santorini and Mykonos, known for their vibrant LGBTQIA+ scenes.
4. RSVP Vacations: All-Gay Travel Experts
Best for: Solo travelers and community-building
Why it’s great: RSVP Vacations is one of the original all-gay travel companies, and they’ve been offering unforgettable cruises since the mid-1980s. RSVP chartered cruises create a safe space for LGBTQIA+ travelers to be themselves, fostering a sense of community. Their focus is on creating fun, exciting experiences both onboard and ashore, from top-tier entertainment to themed parties and group excursions.
2024 Highlight: A South Pacific cruise exploring Tahiti and Bora Bora, featuring onboard performances, pool parties, and scenic tropical paradises.
5. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): LGBTQIA+ Friendly Freestyle Cruising
Best for: Travelers who love flexibility and diverse onboard activities
Why it’s great: Norwegian Cruise Line has long supported the LGBTQIA+ community and was one of the first major cruise lines to offer onboard LGBTQIA+ meetups. Their “freestyle cruising” concept allows passengers to dine whenever and wherever they choose, and with activities ranging from Broadway-style shows to thrilling water slides, there’s something for every type of traveler.
2024 Highlight: A Northern Europe cruise exploring the fjords of Norway, stopping in gay-friendly cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam.
6. Royal Caribbean International: Fun for All
Best for: Adventure seekers and entertainment enthusiasts
Why it’s great: Royal Caribbean has a stellar reputation for its LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, offering meetups for LGBTQIA+ travelers on every voyage. Known for its larger-than-life ships, Royal Caribbean offers a perfect mix of adventure, entertainment, and relaxation, making it a great choice for travelers who love activities like zip-lining, surfing, and Broadway-style performances.
2024 Highlight: A Caribbean cruise stopping at LGBTQIA+ friendly destinations like Puerto Rico and St. Maarten, with plenty of onboard thrills.
7. Holland America Line: Mature and Sophisticated LGBTQIA+ Friendly Cruises
Best for: Cultural immersion and a refined atmosphere
Why it’s great: Holland America Line offers a more sophisticated cruise experience, perfect for those who enjoy cultural enrichment, fine dining, and smaller crowds. The cruise line is known for its inclusive environment and offers LGBTQIA+ meetups on each sailing. With itineraries that focus on unique cultural experiences, it’s a great option for gay travelers who value immersive travel.
2024 Highlight: An Alaskan voyage exploring glaciers, wildlife, and the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, featuring onboard enrichment programs.
8. Olivia Travel: The Best for Lesbian Travelers
Best for: Lesbian travelers and women-centric cruising
Why it’s great: Olivia Travel has been a leader in lesbian travel for decades, offering all-lesbian cruises that provide a safe and empowering space for women. Their cruises are tailored to the needs and interests of lesbian travelers, with a focus on community, relaxation, and connection. Olivia also offers top-notch entertainment, including LGBTQIA+ comedians, musicians, and special guests.
2024 Highlight: A women-only Caribbean cruise featuring stops in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Bahamas, with onboard yoga, poolside parties, and exciting excursions.
Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers on Cruises
While many cruise lines are LGBTQ+ friendly, here are a few extra tips for making the most of your cruise experience:
- Look for LGBTQ+ Meetups: Even on mainstream cruises, you’ll often find daily LGBTQ+ social gatherings, listed in the daily onboard schedule.
- Book Early for Themed Cruises: All-gay cruises and themed voyages sell out quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead.
- Be Yourself: Cruises are known for their welcoming atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to express your authentic self, as you’ll be in an environment that encourages openness and respect.
Final Thoughts
With a range of LGBTQIA+ friendly cruise lines offering everything from all-gay charters to family-friendly environments, the world of cruising is more inclusive than ever. Whether you’re seeking high-energy parties, luxury experiences, or a laid-back cultural journey, there’s a perfect cruise out there for you. These eight cruise lines ensure that every gay traveler feels safe, welcomed, and celebrated as they explore the world in 2024.
So pack your bags, don your best cruise attire, and get ready to embark on the LGBTQIA+ adventure of a lifetime!
Cruise Therapy Travel Blog by the Atlanta Travel Associates 