The big-ship
cruise companies Atlantis, RSVP Vacations, (which shares the
same parent company as this Web site), Olivia and R Family
Vacations -- continue to span the globe from the
wondrous Galapagos Islands to the best of the
Caribbean and the Mediterranean with unique, one-of-a-kind
high-seas adventures for gay men and lesbians who love the
thrill of arriving at a new port each day and who
thrive in a social, flexible vacation environment.
Cruisers in
search of more intimate and low-key vacations now have even
more options in the form of small-ship cruises from RSVP
Vacations, Travelpride and Romance Voyages, among
others.
Ebony Pyramid
offers an annual cruise for Black lesbian and gay cruise
devotees who want to spend their time on board with members
of their own community.
Whatever your
style, you'll find a cruise vacation to float your boat.
Below is a roundup of upcoming gay and lesbian cruise
departures through April 2008. Be sure to check back
next month for newly announced cruises or for any
updates.
ATLANTIS (www.atlantisevents.com)
Spain, Italy and Greek Isles Cruise aboard Royal
Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas Barcelona to
Athens Aug. 25-Sept. 2, 2007 Summer
temperatures are set to soar with Atlantis' sizzling hot
all-gay Mediterranean cruise. Taking in European
highlights from bold and sexy Barcelona, stylish
Valencia and party haven Ibiza, to magical Florence
and majestic Rome and finally to spectacular haven Santorini
and high-spirited Athens. The sleek, luxe Brilliance
of the Seas is designed for adventure, fun and more
fun. Eleven-story glass elevators give awe-striking
ocean views. A rock-climbing wall, sports court, golf
simulator, jogging track and two pools keep everyone fit
while out at sea. The state of the art fitness center,
with full range of cardio and weight training
equipment, gives yet more opportunities for workouts with
a view and those huge outdoor pool decks come in handy
whether there's sunning, socializing or talent
spotting on the schedule.
Atlantis is known
for pulling out all the stops when it comes to
entertainment and this Mediterranean foray is no exception;
comedy, cabaret, Broadway-style shows and dance
parties confetti the cruise calendar, and a casino and
video bar provide yet more distractions. If you really
don't want to check out of that luxurious stateroom, combine
this adventure with Atlantis' Athens to Venice cruise (see
below.)
Athens to Venice Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's
Brilliance of the Seas Athens to Venice Sept.
2-11, 2007 The second, longer leg (nine
nights) of Atlantis' two back-to-back Mediterranean cruises
features some of the most exotic and historic ports in
this ancient and captivating part of the world,
visiting the best of the Greek Isles, Turkey and the
Adriatic.
Some highlights
of this remarkably diverse itinerary include arriving in
legendary Istanbul , sailing directly into the romantic
Grand Canal in Venice and giving passengers the chance
to explore the thrilling gay mecca of Mykonos. Other
ports include Rhodes and Ephesus. After experiencing
beaches and ruins, it's time to sail on to charming Corfu,
more beaches at Split and, finally, to Venice.
The sleek, luxe
Brilliance of the Seas is designed for adventure, fun and
more fun. Eleven-story glass elevators give awe-striking
ocean views. A rock climbing wall, sports court, golf
simulator, jogging track and two pools keep everyone
fit while out at sea. The state of the art fitness
center, with full range of cardio and weight training
equipment, gives yet more opportunities for workouts
with a view and those huge outdoor pool decks come in
handy whether there's sunning, socializing or talent
spotting on the schedule.
Atlantis is known
for pulling out all the stops when it comes to
entertainment and this Mediterranean foray is no exception;
comedy, cabaret, Broadway-style shows and dance
parties confetti the cruise calendar, and a casino and
video bar provide yet more distractions. Dining
options are similarly bountiful on board. Open seating,
casual dress and no assigned dining times make meals
even more enjoyable occasions. If nine days is nowhere
near enough, combine this adventure with Atlantis'
Spain, Italy and Greek Isles cruise (see above.)
Los Angeles to Los Angeles Mexican Celebration Cruise
aboard the Radiance of the Seas Oct. 13-21,
2007 Atlantis' fifth annual Mexican Riviera
Cruise, their most popular cruise, pulls up the gangplank in
L.A. and sets a course for Mexico's most luscious
beach towns. Along with an overnight stay in
gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta, legendary soirees, top
entertainers, five superstar DJs and all sorts of onboard
shenanigans make this the Pacific's premier party.
Ports of call also include Ixtapa, Mazatlan and Cabo
San Lucas.
Radiance of the
Seas is a spectacular ship, with expansive glass walls, a
rock-climbing wall, two-story spa, two pools, African-themed
solarium, mini-golf course, golf simulator, jogging
track, full size sports court, fitness center and
self-leveling billiard table. A plethora of dining
options feature Atlantis' signature open seating, no dress
code and no assigned dining times.
Liberty Caribbean Cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean
Liberty of the Seas Miami to Miami January 19-26,
2008 Atlantis' legendary January cruise
will be the largest gay cruise in history. Setting sail
aboard the largest, newest, and most innovative cruise
ship ever built, Royal Caribbean's stunning Liberty of
the Seas, 3700 guests will fill this floating paradise
with entertainment, spectacular parties and outrageous
activities. Just some of the water-borne wonders include
surfing FlowRider, climbing a multi-course rock wall
and sparring in the boxing ring. An outdoor water
park, indoor ice rink, sports pool and full-size
volleyball court are also available to keep cruisers kept
active. A four-story theater, ice shows, comedy and
live music shows, and dances on the decks provide
social shenanigans. The largest spa at sea and mind
blowing hot tubs that hang off the edge of the ship, 112
feet above the ocean, provide the utmost in
relaxation. Oh, and this vast floating party calls at
ports, including Turks and Caicos, St.Thomas and Labadee.
Rio Carnival Cruise aboard Celebrity Infinity Rio to
Buenos Aires February 3-15, 2008 This is one
thrillingly packed itinerary that takes in the finale
of Rio's Carnival and three unforgettable days in
Rio, an overnight in the famous beach town of Buzios, the
unspoiled splendor of historic Parati, cosmopolitan
Sao Paolo, a full day and night on the magical island
of Florianopolis, a day on the beaches and a night on
the town in the jet-set destination of Punta del Este, urban
treasure Montevideo, and finally, gay-friendly Buenos
Aires. With plenty of interaction with locals and a
packed itinerary, this is a perfect way to explore
these fascinating destinations. (It's also sold out!)
Celebrity Caribbean Cruise aboard Celebrity Millennium
Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale March 2-9,
2008 Taking in the gay highlights of Florida, Fort
Lauderdale and Key West, this enticing expedition sets sail
for the exotic islands of Turks and Caicos, before dropping
its elegant anchor at Samana and Labadee in the
Dominican Republic. An overnight in Key West allows
all sorts of social shenanigans. Throughout the trip,
amazing diving and unspoiled white sand beaches await. The
glamorous Millennium boasts the ambience of a
contemporary grand hotel. Spacious modern lounges and
comfortable, tasteful staterooms provide a luxurious
resting place to recharge after days and nights on the high
seas and beaches. The pool deck offers ample space for
sunning, lounging, and dancing on beautiful tiered
teak decks; the pool, hot tubs, and the spectacular
indoor AquaSpa complex allow for utter relaxation. Seven
bars and lounges feature live music and comedy shows.
A world-class casino, onboard movie theater, and piano
bar provide yet more distraction. As night falls,
Millennium's top decks will be transformed into the
Caribbean's most sophisticated nightclub, with
state-of-the-art lighting, lasers, and sound and
starring three of the world's top DJs with exciting
theme nights and T-dances.
RSVP VACATIONS (www.rsvpvacations.com)
Roman Empire Cruise aboard MS Westerdam Rome to Rome Aug.
9-19, 2007 This Roman holiday extravaganza
sets sail from the romantic Italian capital and drops
anchor in thrilling Mediterranean waters, at Naples,
Messina, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Venice, Malta and Salerno.
Dipping its toes into four gorgeous Mediterranean
countries, RSVP Vacations' thrilling summer cruise
offers Italian enchantment and Aegean intrigue as it
coasts past the shores of ancient empires. The dazzling MS
Westerdam offers spacious staterooms, many with
verandahs for private dining and sunning. The
Greenhouse Spa and Salon is the fleet's largest and most
luxurious spa. Passengers can choose to dine poolside or
doll themselves up and feast in the ship's two-story
Vista Dining Room, Lido or Pinnacle restaurants.
Alaska Gold Rush Cruise aboard MS Amsterdam Seattle to
Seattle Sept. 7-14, 2007 RSVP Vacations'
Alaska Gold Rush Cruise sets out as so many rugged
prospectors did, from the Emerald City, Seattle, and glides
out through the Puget Sound, between the Gulf Islands and
the imposing Olympic Mountains. It's a breathtaking
start to an unforgettable week. Holland America Line's
grand five-star MS Amsterdam carries 1,380 passengers
through the incomparable scenery of Alaska and the Pacific
Northwest. Travel past icebergs and pods of whales and
gallop down the gangplank to check out Sitka and
Ketchikan, Alaska and the refined city of Victoria,
capital of British Columbia. MS Amsterdam boasts
state-of-the-art amenities, fine woods, exquisite art and
antiques, larger staterooms, a 24/7 Internet Center
and a world-class spa and fitness center.
OLIVIA (www.olivia.com)
Alaskan Frontiers aboard Holland America's MS Statendam
Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage, Alaska, Sept. 9-16,
2007 The ladies of Olivia set out for the far
north once again with 2007's Alaskan Frontiers cruise.
Embarking from lovely Vancouver B.C., the journey is a
stunning one. MS Statendam cruises the Inside Passage,
through winding fjords and past waterfalls to
Ketchikan, Alaska. Adventuours souls can kayak the
waterfront, explore Misty Fjords National Monument and the
world's largest collection of totem poles. Other
excitements scheduled include seeing Hubbard Glacier,
hiking, mushing with a dog team and savoring fresh
salmon, smoked over alderwood. Unscheduled wonders might
include seeing an iceberg "calf" and sighting bald
eagles high above.
MS Statendam
boasts state-of-the-art amenities, internet access, a
two-tiered dining room, the world-class Ocean spa, fitness
center and the Lido Pool.
Under the Tahitian Sun aboard RSS's Paul Gaughin Papeete
to Papeete, French Polynesia Sept. 15-22, 2007
Vanilla and hibiscus fill the air as Olivia's Tahitian
cruise embarks on its adventure through Tahiti. The
Society Islands, also known as "Paradise on Earth," the
rugged volcanic islands of Raiatea, Taha'a, Bora Bora,
Moorea and Tahiti are the sirens of the South Pacific.
Balmy days, sultry nights, jagged peaks, emerald rain
forests and the company of women beckon would-be passengers
on board this delectable cruise. During the week, those on
board visit deep bays and reefs, multihued lagoons and
deserted motu islands, vanilla plantations and craggy
mountains. Black pearls and whale and dolphin
sightings are other attractions.
The MS Paul
Gaughin was designed specifically to cruise French Polynesia
year-round. 50 percent of spacious staterooms have balconies
and the vessel offers a watersports marina, three
dining venues and an enticing spa. Entertainment takes
place in the sultry Connoisseur Club, La Palette piano
bar and Le Grand Salon.
San Diego to San Diego Sunsets of the Mexican Riviera
aboard Holland America's MS Oosterdam Oct. 20-27,
2007 Lily Tomlin vaults on board to celebrate
Olivia's 100th trip in some of Mexico's sultriest spots. The
cruise takes in quaint corners of Puerto Vallarta, lagoons,
stunning sunsets, Cabo San Lucas' idyllic waters and
amazing rock formations. To add amusement to the days
at sea, Lily Tomlin is on hand and on stage.
Caribbean Dreams aboard Holland America's MS
Zuiderdam Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Fort
Lauderdale January 26-February 2, 2008 Idyllic
islands, the lure of adventure and vibrant nightlife are all
on the menu for Olivia's hot Caribbean cruise.
The perfect escape from winter, this seven-night
delight visits one luxurious port after another,
including the pristine beaches and lagoons of Grand Turk and
Tortola, the Dutch/French island of St. Maarten and
Olivia's exclusive private paradise Half Moon
Cay.
On board the
gloriously indulgent MS Zuiderdam, the majority of
staterooms have verandas and the Greenhouse Spa offers even
more relaxation to pampered passengers. The chic Ocean
Bar and sultry Queen's Lounge are the setting
for Olivia's legendary entertainment.
Caribbean Treasures aboard Holland America's Ms
Westerdam Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Fort
Lauderdale March 30-April 6, 2008 Underwater
life and nightlife get equal billing on Olivia's
enticing Caribbean Treasures Cruise. Taking in Costa
Maya on the mysterious Mayan Riviera, Georgetown,
Grand Turk and Half Moon Cay, this trip visits ruined
temples, secret pathways, sleepy fishing villages,
underwater caves and miles of white sand beaches.
Highlights of the Turks and Caicos include snorkeling
and diving amid tiny seahorses, hawksbill turtles,
coral gardens, and giant whale sharks, as well as on shore
delights in the form of a treasure trove of pastel
British colonial architecture.
The dazzling MS
Westerdam offers spacious staterooms, many with verandahs
for private dining and sunning. The Greenhouse Spa and Salon
is the fleet's largest and most luxurious spa.
Passengers can choose to dine poolside or doll
themselves up and feast in the ship's two-story Vista
Dining Room, Lido or Pinnacle restaurants.
R FAMILY VACATIONS (www.rfamilyvacations.com)
Rosie O'Donnell
and her spouse, Kelli, along with business partner Gregg
Kaminsky, created a public relations smash -- and opened up
an entirely new cruise market -- with the successful
launch of their R Family Vacations cruise in July
2004, geared toward gay and lesbian parents and their
kids of all ages. Two upcoming cruises will satisfy
different tastes in the expanding gay and lesbian
family travel market -- a small-ship expedition to the
fabled Galapagos Islands in November is complemented
by a traditional large-ship winter Caribbean cruise.
Bermuda: Summer 2007 cruise aboard NCL's Norwegian Dawn
New York to New York City July 7-14, 2007
After a truly awe-inspiring farewell to New York City
-- sailing down the island of Manhattan, past the Statue of
Liberty and under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, shopping,
snorkeling, sunning and socializing are all on the
schedule during R Family Vacations' entirely enticing
Bermuda summer cruise. Setting the pace with two days
on R Family Vacations' private gay and lesbian
family-friendly island -- a haven of quaint seaside
villages, beautiful pink sand beaches and tropical
rain forests -- everyone on board will soon feel far, far
away from New York. Barbeques and beach parties, kayaking
and windsurfing are just some of the on-island
activities. Pool parties, barbeques, Broadway-quality
shows, kids' entertainment, seminars, comedy, cabaret
and a casino are on offer for sea days. The Norwegian Dawn
offers luxurious penthouses with floor-to-ceiling
glass doors and private balcony, generous ocean-view
staterooms with balcony and comfortable inside
staterooms.
Spring Break on the Mexican Riviera aboard Holland
America's Ms Oosterdam San Diego to San
Diego March 15-22, 2008 R Family's first
sailing to the Mexican Riviera joins forces with PFLAG as
they sail south on a 1848 passenger, all-welcome
cruise, to shop in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, to soak
up some sunshine at the beaches of Mazatlan and to enjoy
the galleries and scenery in gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta.
TRAVELPRIDE (www.travelpride.com)
Scandinavia and Russia Cruise aboard Le Diamant Bergen,
Norway to Stockholm, Sweden July 2-11, 2007
Travel Pride's Baltic cruise adventure is a glorious
ten-day journey aboard the charming Le Diamant. An
intimate ship with just 113 cabins, the sights of the Baltic
come into view through cabins' double portholes,
picture windows or private balconies. Starting in
scenic Bergen, Norway, with its UNESCO-designated
Bryggen harbor, the all-gay cruise visits the wealth of
treasures in St. Petersburg, the medieval atmosphere
of Tallinn, Estonia, cosmopolitan Copenhagen and
Stockholm, as well as Poland's maritime hub Gdansk and
stately Helsinki, Finland.
Entertainment on
board includes a complimentary open-bar Tea Dance, a DJ
and videos and nightly live entertainment.
New Year's Caribbean Cruise aboard
Windstar's Wind Spirit St. Thomas, to
St.Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands December 29, 2007-January
5, 2008 Leave the crowds, cold weather and
2007 behind! Escape on this thrilling cruise that
glides from "America's Paradise" St.
Thomas, to the fascinating Iles des Saintes,
Guadeloupe , lush Montserrat in the British West
Indies and picture perfect St. Barts in the French West
Indies, before reaching beach haven Jost Van Dyke ,
chic Virgin Gorda and finally docking back at St.
Thomas. Allowing for a more intimate holiday cruise,
the Wind Spirit is an exclusive craft, with only space for
150 discerning passengers. The ship boasts a casino,
library, pool bar, lounge, veranda restaurant and main
restaurant, as well as a salt-water pool and hot tub,
water activity marina and fitness center. Spacious cabins
feature flat screen televisions, DVD and CD players,
iPOD docking stations, wireless internet access,
Egyptian cotton linens and duvets and L'Occitane
amenities. All cabins are ocean view.
ROMANCE VOYAGES (www.romancevoyages.com)
Egypt/Nile Adventure aboard Sonesta Star Goddess
Cairo/Luxor, Egypt to Luxor/Cairo, Egypt February
1-14, 2008 In February 2008, gay ancient
history buffs and fans of small ships can join this luxury
expedition to take in the wonders of Egypt. Five days
on land allow the opportunity to take in Memphis, the
Step Pyramid of Zoser, the Sphinx and the only
remaining ancient Wonder of the World, the Great Pyramid at
Giza, while enjoying accommodations at the luxurious
Mena House in Cairo. After these wonders, the group
flies to Luxor to embark upon seven days on board the
high-end Star Goddess, a 33-unit ship with an outdoor pool,
running track, full service spa and dining room, deck
bar and lounge. Historical highlights include the
Valley of Kings, the Valley of Queens, the Colossi of
Memnon, Aswan Dam and numerous other fascinating ports of
call. Social highlights include the Captain's
Party, an Egyptian Costume Party and a Martini and
Disco Night.
EBONY PYRAMID (www.ebonypyramidonline.com)
8th Annual Black Gay and Lesbian Pride: Caribbean
Cruisin' Miami to Miami October 4-8,
2007 Columbus Day weekend heats up with Ebony
Pyramid's hot island cruise. Visiting Nassau and
Paradise Island, this Bahamas odyssey features the
best entertainers and special events for the BLBGT
community. Highlights include a White Attire Reception,
parties, seminars, a dance party, bingo, talent shows
and a farewell ceremony. Pre-club parties include a
sizzling event at Miami club Twist.
