Cruises 101: What you need to know

When it comes to choosing a gay cruise for 2027, the options are exciting but can be overwhelming. Two standout cruises are the TGG Waterslide Adventure Gay Cruise by TravelingGays.com, sailing February 21-28, 2027, and the Epic Allure Caribbean Gay Cruise by Atlantis, departing March 7-14, 2027. Both promise fun, sun, and community, but they offer very different experiences. This post breaks down the key differences to help you decide which cruise fits your style and expecta

Royal Caribbean International has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable cruise experiences that combine thrilling adventures, diverse entertainment, and exceptional dining. For gay and lesbian adults looking for a vacation that embraces inclusivity while offering exciting activities and gourmet food, Royal Caribbean stands out as a top choice. This cruise line creates a welcoming environment where LGBTQ travelers can relax, explore, and indulge in ways that suit the

If you’re planning a cruise to The Bahamas, Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day CocoCay, should be at the top of your list. This island offers a unique blend of thrilling adventures, relaxing beaches, and family-friendly activities that make it a standout destination. Whether you want to dive into adrenaline-pumping water slides or unwind by the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, Perfect Day CocoCay has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know to

When you book a Royal Caribbean cruise, you might think your fare covers just the basics: your cabin, meals at the main dining room, and maybe a few shows. But the reality is far richer. Your cruise fare includes a wide range of experiences and amenities that many guests overlook. From multiple dining venues to exciting activities and relaxing pools, there is so much more included than you might expect. This post uncovers those hidden gems, helping you get the most value and

Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas offers an unmatched blend of thrilling adventures, captivating shows, and relaxing retreats. Whether you crave adrenaline-pumping activities or serene moments by the pool, this ship delivers experiences that cater to every taste. This guide explores the standout entertainment and activities you can enjoy onboard, helping you plan a cruise filled with excitement and unforgettable memories.

Embarking on a cruise with Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas means more than just exploring new destinations. It also means indulging in a remarkable dining experience that caters to every taste and mood. With 17 complimentary restaurants and flexible walk-in options, this ship offers a variety of flavors and atmospheres that make every meal an adventure. Whether you want a quick bite before a shore excursion or a relaxed dinner with family, the dining venues onboard deliver

Choosing the right wine package on a Holland America cruise can enhance your dining experience and elevate your enjoyment on board. Holland America offers beverage packages that include wines from three distinct cellars, each catering to different tastes and budgets. Understanding what each cellar offers helps you select the best option for your preferences. This guide breaks down the details of Cellar 1, Cellar 2, and Cellar 3, so you know exactly what to expect and can make

When cruising with Holland America Line, understanding how gratuities work can enhance your experience and help you save money. Unlike traditional tipping, Holland America Line charges a daily "Crew Appreciation" fee that supports the hardworking crew members who make your cruise enjoyable. This post explains how much these gratuities cost, the benefits of prepaying them, and how to do so for the best savings.

Cruising offers a unique way to explore new places while enjoying the comforts of a floating resort. For travelers committed to sobriety, however, the presence of alcohol everywhere on board can feel challenging. That is where the Friends of Bill W meet ups come in. These gatherings provide a welcoming, safe space for sober travelers to connect, share experiences, and build friendships during their cruise vacation.

The moment you step into Holland America Line's Dutch-themed Orange Party, you are greeted by a sea of orange. This vibrant color dominates the scene, from the decorations to the attire of the guests. But why orange? What does this color represent, especially to the Norwegians and the Dutch? And how does it connect to the festive atmosphere on board? This post explores the rich history and cultural significance of orange, the dress code flexibility, and what guests can expect

When planning a cruise with Holland America, understanding the drink packages can save you money and enhance your onboard experience. The choices can seem confusing at first, especially with several packages offering different benefits and limits. This guide breaks down the key features of Holland America’s beverage packages, including the Have It All, Signature, Elite, and Quench packages. You will learn what each package offers, how limits work, and important rules about pu

Waiting at the San Pedro Cruise Terminal before your Virgin Voyages adventure can feel long if you don’t know what to do nearby. At the same time, embarkation day can seem confusing if it’s your first time sailing with Virgin Voyages. This guide will help you make the most of your time before boarding and walk you through the embarkation process step-by-step. You’ll also discover a favorite local spot to enjoy breakfast, brunch, or lunch with great coffee and friendly service

Cruising Alaska in August offers a unique blend of natural beauty and changing weather. This time of year brings mild temperatures, extended daylight, and a mix of sun and rain. Knowing what to expect and how to pack can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. This guide breaks down the typical weather in key Alaskan ports and nearby Victoria, British Columbia, and offers practical packing tips to prepare you for your adventure.

Cruising has evolved dramatically over the years, with travelers now facing a choice between massive cruise ships and smaller, yacht-style vessels. In 2024, Royal Caribbean introduced Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship afloat, boasting an impressive array of amenities and entertainment options. Meanwhile, brands like Virgin Voyages, Explora Journeys, Holland America Line, Silversea, Seabourn, and Ritz Carlton Yachts focus on smaller ships that promise intimacy and tran

Booking dining reservations before your Virgin Voyages cruise can feel confusing, especially if you missed the chance to reserve ahead of time. Many guests worry they will miss out on popular restaurants or have limited dining options. The truth is, Virgin Voyages designs its dining reservation system to encourage premium package bookings, but that does not mean you will be left hungry or without choices. This guide explains how dining reservations work, what to expect when y

Cruise ships carry thousands of passengers across the oceans, offering luxury and adventure. But what happens to the wastewater generated on these floating cities? Many people assume that cruise ships dump untreated waste directly into the ocean, but the reality is more complex. Some cruise lines have made serious commitments to protecting the environment by properly treating wastewater. Others operate their own treatment facilities onboard, while some, including Carnival Cru

Autumn in Japan offers a spectacular display of fall foliage and coastal beauty, making it a perfect time for an unforgettable journey. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Cruise invites travelers to explore Japan’s most captivating coastal cities while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a superyacht. This 10-night roundtrip voyage aboard the Luminara combines the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine of Japan with the ease of yachting. From Tokyo to Kagoshima, this cru

Virgin Voyages is raising the bar for cruise vacations with fresh, exciting options for the winter 2027-28 season. Whether you want a short getaway or an extended voyage, Virgin Voyages offers flexible itineraries that bring new experiences to the sea. From unique destinations to exclusive onboard features, this season promises something special for every adult traveler. Hurry, these offers end April 2nd, 2026.

Virgin Voyages is set to elevate the cruise dining experience with the launch of Ariya, a modern Indian restaurant aboard the Valiant Lady, arriving in May 2026. This new dining venue promises to bring bold regional flavors and contemporary design together, offering guests a unique culinary journey at sea. Ariya is designed to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences, making it a standout addition to Virgin Voyages’ Always Included Luxury dining options.

Booking a Virgin Voyages cruise promises a unique and stylish travel experience. Yet, like many cruise lines, the base fare does not cover every expense on board. Knowing what additional costs to expect helps you budget better and enjoy your trip without surprises. This guide breaks down the main extras you’ll encounter on a Virgin Voyages cruise, including gratuities, specialty dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions.