For gay and lesbian travellers, there are a diverse range of gay-friendly sailings, destinations and communities to choose from. What’s more, in recent years, some cruise lines have started offering dedicated voyages for LGBT travellers to a number of exotic destinations.
Whichever cruise line you choose as a gay or lesbian passenger, the staff, as well as your fellow passengers, will be welcoming, friendly and accepting. Despite this, every cruise line is different, so it’s important to choose the one offering the entertainment, services and facilities you’re looking for. To help you decide which is right for you, here’s a look at five of the best cruise lines for gay and lesbian travellers.
Princess Cruises
The on board vibe a Princess Cruises ship is fun and relaxed, with a flexible choice of dining options as well as a thumping, dusk til’ dawn (ish) approach to clubbing. The line’s newest boats – Ruby Princess and Sapphire Princess – feature an Asian- themed casino and a Lotus space, both of which are sure to be a big hit with younger passengers.
Princess sail to some truly exotic destinations – from the sun drenched ports of Ibiza and culture rich destinations like Barcelona, Rome and Venice, to far-flung destinations like Hawaii, Thailand and other ports in South East Asia. The question is: where will you choose?
Cunard Cruises
If you aren’t a fan of in-your-face entertainment and would prefer a more sedate sailing experience, opt for a cruise aboard one of Cunard Cruises’ three luxury vessels: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth II. Attracting plush couples with money to spend, Cunard offers the very best service, dining and cuisine of any cruise line. Despite this upscale, luxurious air, Cunard is welcoming towards gay and lesbian passengers, with FOD and GLBT meetings available on every sailing.
Book a break aboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth II and partake in fun nightly jaunts to the Commodore – a lavish cocktail lounge nicknamed ‘Commodorothy’ on account of the plethora of gay passengers who enjoy relaxed get-togethers in the bar most evenings. Alternatively, feast on a selection of gastronomic treats in the Todd English restaurant, or get dolled up for a Formal Royal Ball.
Holland America Cruises
Gay and lesbian cruise passengers who love their grub will be well catered for aboard a Holland America cruise. The Seattle-based cruise line places special emphasis on fine dining, with a number of gourmet and a la carte eateries on board – not forgetting the imaginative Le Cirque dining experience. There’s even an on board Culinary Arts Center, where passengers can partake in interactive workshops and watch speciality cookery demonstrations, making the cruise line a must for the discerning foodie.
For passengers simply looking to relax with their other half, a Holland America Cruise is ideal. Each ship in the fleet is impressively roomy, with private verandas, balconies and luxurious staterooms galore. Opt for a cruise aboard a Signature-Class vessel, and you can enjoy tranquil privacy and no-end of culinary treats – bliss.
Celebrity Cruises
If style, sophistication and all things hip are important to your holiday, Celebrity is the cruise line for you. Arguably the world’s trendiest, most style-conscious cruise line, Celebrity offers boutique-style accommodation and buckets of atmosphere. Gay and lesbian travellers will blend in amid the broad mix of passengers aboard, whilst staff are incredibly friendly, welcoming and accommodating.
For the ultimate cruising experience, opt for one of Celebrity’s sumptuous Conceirge-Class suites, where you can enjoy – among with a long list of other lavish extras – Frette bathrobes, a “menu” of pillows and duvets, as well as special spa perks and exclusive access to the Blu Restaurant. When night falls, make for the Martini Bar, where you’ll find fellow lesbian and gay passengers sipping cocktails and basking in the tasteful décor.
Royal Caribbean
If it’s good, clean fun you’re after, no cruise line does it better than Royal Caribbean. Despite being incredibly popular with families, Royal Caribbean’s legendary warm welcome extends to gay and lesbian passengers, too. As the world’s leading cruise provider, Royal Caribbean offers sailings to every conceivable corner of the globe – including a number of gay friendly ports in Europe, South East Asia and the Caribbean.
Due to the huge-scale of most ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet, there’s bound to be a gay and lesbian community aboard your particular vessel. R.C.’s entertainment is also sure to appeal to gay and lesbian passengers, with a range of fabulous musicals available including ‘Chicago’ and ‘Hairspray’.
Whether you want to let your hair down and party into the wee hours or relax and unwind amid luxurious surroundings, Cruise 1st can help you find the perfect cruise for you – no matter what your sexual preference. To browse our complete range of cruise holidays, visit the Cruise 1st homepage or call our friendly team on 0808 2746 777.
