Imagine a holiday where you can be entirely yourself, meet like-minded travellers, and explore stunning destinations—all while enjoying world-class entertainment, luxurious amenities, and unforgettable parties at sea. That’s what
gay cruises offer, and in 2025, the options have never been more exciting. Whether you're a seasoned sailor of the LGBT+ travel scene or you're planning your very first gay holiday, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about gay cruises in 2025.
What Are Gay Cruises?
Gay cruises are cruises designed with the LGBT+ community in mind. Some are full-ship charters operated by companies like Atlantis, RSVP, and Vacaya. These take over the entire ship and tailor the experience exclusively to gay and queer travellers. Others are partial-charters or hosted groups on mainstream cruise lines, offering a more intimate yet still community-oriented experience.
Its short and simple: They’re safe, inclusive, and fun.
You don’t need to be a party animal to enjoy one. While many cruises are known for high-energy nightlife, there are also options for culture lovers, foodies, and explorers. Whether you want to sunbathe on a private deck, dance under the stars, or join a wine tasting in Provence, there's a gay cruise in 2025 for you.
Why Choose a Gay Cruise?
Gay cruises remove the guesswork. You don’t have to wonder if the ship will be welcoming or if you’ll face awkward glances at the pool. These cruises are built with your comfort in mind. Everything from the entertainment to the shore excursions is designed to make LGBT+ travellers feel at ease.
Here’s why people choose them:
- Total acceptance from staff and fellow guests
- Curated entertainment by and for the LGBT+ community
- Easy access to destinations that celebrate queer culture
- Themed nights, pool parties, drag shows, and relaxed mixers
- Like-minded company for solo travellers and couples alike
Plus, many cruises include private beach parties, group city tours, and wellness activities. They’re ideal for forming new friendships or travelling as part of a community.
Types of Gay Cruises in 2025
There are two main types:
- Full-ship charter cruises: Atlantis, RSVP, and Vacaya book out the whole ship. Everyone on board is part of the gay cruise. Entertainment, activities, and even dining times are designed around a shared LGBT+ experience.
- Gay cruise group departures: Some trips are hosted by LGBT+ tour operators onboard larger mainstream ships. This means you get the group atmosphere without the entire ship being taken over. It’s more relaxed, often cheaper, and offers a balance between mainstream cruising and community spirit.
At Wide Awake Holidays, we’re proud to be agents for exclusive gay cruise brands like Atlantis, RSVP, and Vacaya. We also work with luxury cruise lines that welcome hosted LGBT+ groups. That means we can tailor your trip and package flights, transfers, and pre/post stays all under our ATOL protection.
Featured Itineraries for 2025
To help you find the right experience, we’ve highlighted some of the most anticipated gay cruise itineraries for 2025:
- Atlantis Mediterranean Cruise (August 2025): Set sail from Rome, stopping at Naples, Mykonos, and Barcelona. Expect lively pool parties, onboard drag shows, and cultural excursions in every port.
- RSVP Caribbean Winter Escape (February 2025): Departing from Fort Lauderdale, this cruise visits Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Labadee. Great for sun-seekers looking to escape the UK winter.
- Vacaya Iceland & Norwegian Fjords (June 2025): A spectacular scenery-packed voyage, perfect for travellers who want dramatic landscapes and a more relaxed cruise vibe.
- Gay Group Cruise on Celebrity Apex (September 2025): Hosted group sailing through the Greek Islands. Think Mykonos beach days, Santorini sunsets, and elegant onboard dinners.
- Sydney to Auckland Mardi Gras Cruise (March 2025): Celebrate Sydney Mardi Gras before departing on a trans-Tasman adventure with other LGBT+ travellers.
Each of these cruises can be booked with Wide Awake Holidays as a tailor-made package. We can include pre- and post-cruise hotels, flights, transfers, and even VIP events.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
Spain is one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005, and it’s illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. LGBT+ workers are protected under employment law. The age of consent is equal, and public opinion is very supportive. Cities like
Barcelona and
Sitges are world-famous for gay culture.
Exclusive property: Axel Hotel Barcelona is a well-known hetero-friendly hotel offering rooftop bars and stylish rooms.
If you're sailing into Barcelona or Palma de Mallorca, you can explore vibrant gay neighbourhoods right off the ship.
Ask us about our current offer on Barcelona pre-cruise stays.
How Gay Friendly is Greece?
Greece legalised homosexuality in 1951 and introduced anti-discrimination laws in 2005. Same-sex civil partnerships were recognised in 2015. While marriage equality is still pending, the country has made major strides. Public opinion is improving, especially in urban and tourist areas.
Mykonos is one of the most iconic gay destinations in Europe. It’s safe, lively, and famously stylish. Expect beachfront clubs, boutique hotels, and a fun-loving crowd.
Exclusive property: Elysium Hotel Mykonos is a gay-exclusive hotel with stunning sea views.
Cruises stopping in
Mykonos usually offer overnight stays — perfect for exploring the nightlife. Speak to us for offers.
How Gay Friendly is the Caribbean?
The Caribbean is a mix. Some islands are very welcoming, while others have more conservative laws.
That’s why full-ship charters with companies like Atlantis and Vacaya are ideal here. They ensure safety and inclusion on board, even if laws differ onshore.
Legal status varies:
- St. Maarten and Curacao are friendly and legally progressive.
- Jamaica and Barbados still have laws criminalising homosexuality.
Vacaya has worked hard to choose ports with good reputations for LGBT+ travellers.
Cruise tip: Ask us which itineraries skip less inclusive islands and focus on safer destinations.
