The tickets are booked and the tanning oil is packed – you’re going on a gay cruise!
If this is your first time aboard, you may be wondering what to expect. If you’re worried about lack of food or things to do, fear not! You’re going to have the time of your life.
Gay cruises are depicted on television and in movies, but what’s it really like to go on one?
Expect a diverse crowd
Celebrations of self-expression are at the heart of gay cruises. Everyone’s there for the very same reason – to have fun without an ounce of judgment.
If you’re expecting a bunch of 20-somethings with chiseled bodies and perfect features, then you might be in for a surprise! That’s not to say there won’t be plenty of eye candy on board, but you should expect a much more diverse crowd.
There’s no age limit when it comes to gay cruises. You’re going to see people of all ages, from all around the world. And believe me, no matter what age, shape, or size your fellow passengers, you’ll be in a crowd that loves to party.
Be prepared for costume parties!
Once you’re onboard your gay cruise, you’re going to be swamped with party invites. From deck parties to cabin parties, every night is going to be an occasion.
This probably doesn’t come as a surprise, but what you might not know is that often, these parties have themes. That’s right, you’re going to need to dress up, and that doesn’t necessarily mean suit and tie!
Sure, a smart suit is handy to pack for formal dinners, but you’re going to need a few wacky costumes as well. Themed nights go hand in hand with gay cruises, especially when the theme is an ‘under the sea’ party.
If you want to make the most of your time at sea, you should go all-in when it comes to the costume parties. Don’t be afraid to get festive and have fun. After all, that’s why you’re onboard!
An extra tip on the costume parties: they get a little competitive. Dressing up isn’t something that should be done half heartedly. Go for it!
Be the life and soul of the party and you’ll look and feel great, even if you’re dressed as a lobster!
Daytime activities
The nightlife might be exciting, but don’t sleep your whole day away until the next party. The cruise will have several other fun things for you to do during the day, and you should try and make it to some of them.
It’s during these activities and games that you’ll have an opportunity to mingle with your fellow passengers. You’ll make new friends and have conversations that you’ll actually remember!
Cruises often have activities like bingo, trivia sing-alongs, performances, etc. You’d be surprised how fun a game of bingo can be when you play with a load of like-minded people. Some of the larger cruises even have things like wave pools that you can make use of during the day!
So basically, don’t forget about enjoying your daytime as well as the nighttime. You can sleep when the cruise is over!
You’ll be taste a whole range of dishes
You’ll probably spend your cruise feasting on a huge buffet that houses and anything and everything you could possibly fancy to eat.
The buffet’s going to be your go-to spot for most of your meals, but there’ll also be the option of a formal sit-down meal. Don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone and visit some of the fine dining restaurants.
Regardless of whether you stick with the buffet or go formal each night, you’re in for a treat. Each night there’ll be new food options to try, both in the buffet and in the fine dining menus.
If you’re a little on the fussy side though, don’t panic! The buffet is still going to have the classic items each day, so you’re never going to be short of chicken tenders or pizza slices.
Port Stops Are Part of The Experience
Gay cruises aren’t just about the parties, the food or the daytime activities though. If they were, there’d be no point going to sea.
The onboard activities pad out the time between the port stops, which you definitely shouldn’t overlook.
When you make a stop, get off the boat! No matter how hungover you are, make the effort to see the different ports. You’ll mingle with the locals, get the chance to try their cuisine, and do a little shopping.
Depending on how much time you get to explore, you can even opt for an excursion such as snorkeling or a visit to the local aquarium. The best part about the cruise is that it is what you make it – you can do as much or as little as you like along the way.
Quiet Time Can Be Nice
Believe it or not, your cruise experience can still be tranquil, even with all the activities, adventures and parties.
When you’re feeling tired of socializing, but you don’t want to retreat to your room just yet, there are plenty of banisters along the entire perimeter of the ship for you to enjoy the ocean views.
Often there will also be lounges that are dedicated to peace and quiet. Plus, you’re bound to find a spa, or at least some spa treatments onboard.
If you’re a night owl, take a stroll around the ship after the parties have died down. It will be like an entirely new experience for you to explore while everyone else sleeps off their hangovers.
You Don’t Need a Partner
It’s a common misconception that gay cruises are going to be filled with nothing but couples. This isn’t true!
Many people opt to go alone, or even with a friend. Like I said, there’s going to be a ton of variety when it comes to the people onboard, and this includes relationship statuses.
Whether you are in a committed relationship, or you are single and ready to mingle with someone (or even multiple someones), a gay cruise and everyone on it will welcome you with open arms.