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Gay Cruises From Tampa

Gay Cruises From Tampa

Tampa may not be the most liberal city in Florida, but it has quite a large and active LGBT community.

So as a gay traveler, you are highly unlikely to experience any problems in this area, especially around the more popular tourist spots.

Although the city has a plethora of attractions to keep you busy for days, going on a cruise to the Caribbean and back can be a lot of fun.

gay cruises from tampa

If you are looking to take some time off and spend a few days in the sea, you will love our picks of the top 5 gay cruises from Tampa.

Best gay cruises from Tampa Bay

gay cruises from tampa

Tampa oozes a rather unique, invigorating vibe, owing partly to the large population of students attending the famous University of Tampa.

In a way, it seems like the area was created for cruising, especially when you consider that there are at least 5,000 islands and cays scattered across this region.

If you need to satisfy your spirit of adventure, here are our best gay cruises to take from Tampa.

1. 7 Nights Western Caribbean Gay Daddy Cruise

gay cruises from tampa

This cruise departs from Tampa on December 5 and is scheduled to return on December 11.

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Once aboard the Carnival Pride, you will get to interact with a super-friendly group of fellow passengers as the ship goes out into the sea.

The itinerary is rather short on this voyage as the organizers were looking to keep things simple, cost-effective, and intimate.

You are sure to make some good friends in no time as you explore some of the most breathtaking sites in Central America.

Apart from all the many exciting activities availed onboard, you will also have the option of joining the various private

events designed to promote fun, peaceful, and creative interactions with one another.

How much does a gay cruise cost

According to US News & World Report, the Carnival Pride is the third best ship in this fleet.  Indeed, it has benefited from a number of cool new upgrades since its debut, including:

  • The Punchliner Club – a special comedy club where different comedians perform every night
  •  Guy’s Burger Joint – where they serve finger licking burgers!
  • Alchemy Bar – where they serve personalized drinks like martinis
  • Blue Iguana Cantina – sort of like Chipotle, but on the sea

2. 15-Night Azores & Spain Transatlantic Cruise

gay cruises from tampa

Your journey of 15 nights of an unforgettable experience begins on April 18, 2022 from Tampa to Barcelona via the Celebrity Constellation cruise ship.

With a capacity of 2,034 passengers, Celebrity Constellation was launched in 2002 and is the fourth and last ship in the Millennium Class.

Repeat cruisers are often drawn to its quality, comfort, intriguing itineraries, spotless facilities, friendly crew, and pretty decent food and beverages.

Your suite or stateroom will be surrounded by relaxing public spaces and stunning décor, which helps to add to the comfort.

In terms of food, meals are prepared by Michelin starred chefs who are trained to cater for people with different types of food tastes.

gay cruises from tampa

Time will pass quickly as you browse designer brands and contemporary art within the ship.

You can also take some time to enjoy a spa in the Persian Garden, chill on the Rooftop Terrace, or simply exercise in the fitness center.

Alternatively, you can head to the theatre to watch a movie or dance the night away under the stars to live DJ music.

Best gay cruises

When you feel fatigued, you can always rejuvenate in the sauna or take a bath in the tropical rain showers.

After that, unwind on the hot-tiled beds and build castles in the air as you enjoy the magnificent ocean views.

3. 11-Night Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao Cruise

gay cruises from tampa

This cruise takes off on January 3, 2022 onboard the luxurious Celebrity Constellation.

The Celebrity fleets are ideal to gay cruisers looking for a mix of luxury and value.

From its general ambience to the quality and price of food and services, the Constellation really strives to balance

between the dining perks, entertainment, and leisure offered by bigger vessels and the intimacy of smaller ships.

Onboard this stunning cruise ship, you will have access to:

  • 9 bars and lounges
  • Nightly Vegas-themed entertainment
  • A large casino
  • French, Italian, and Chinese alternative restaurants

The Fortunes Casino is especially great for relaxing, recharging, and playing the hottest casino games available.

It inspires an atmosphere of elegance that comes alive with plenty of activity.

On the other hand, if you are more of an aesthete who appreciates works of art, you should definitely check out the

Art Gallery with one of the largest permanent collections of contemporary art in the world.

One of the highlights of this cruise is the Rooftop Terrace. This is a section on the ship’s rooftop that has a bar, restaurant, and an open-air movie theater.

With the cozy, inviting furnishings on here, they will probably have to plow you out with a shovel to get you to leave!

On calm, sunny days, you can unwind peacefully at the Solarium, where there is a gorgeous adults-only pool and a nice hot tub.

You can also de-stress by shooting some hoops at the basketball court with your mates as you enjoy the cool ocean breeze.

Best Gay Cruises From Galveston

4. 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

gay cruises from tampa

Sailing from Monday, January 17 2022, this 5 day cruise is conducted in the spectacular Brilliance of the Seas ship.

Like the Celebrity Constellation, Brilliance of the Seas also made its debut in 2002 and can carry up to 2,543 passengers excluding the staff.

The last major upgrade was done in 2013, but it has received a few important improvements since then like the addition of fresh carpeting and new furniture.

Regardless, Brilliance of the Seas has enough amenities to keep you entertained when you are not exploring onshore.

For instance, you could scale the Rock Climbing Wall and enjoy unobstructed views of the ocean, play a game of mini

golf with a couple of friends, or simply watch a movie on the poolside screen as you sip a frosty cocktail with your partner.

If you just need to break a sweat or unwind, there is a Sea Spa and Fitness Center as well.

Once you get to Cozumel during your voyage, consider touring the Chankanaab National Park and snorkel among the schools of tropical fish and colorful reefs that are synonymous with this island.

Or take an adventure through the gigantic Maya ruins of Tulum for a sneak peek into the past.

When you are done exploring, head over to Playa Mia and wind down with a beachside massage.

In between your adventures, you will discover flavors that will stick with you forever, like Italian favorites at Giovanni’s Table, prime pieces of steak at Chops Grille, and popular wines at the Vintages.

Gay Cruise New Orleans

5. 11-night ultimate caribbean cruise.

gay cruises from tampa

The date of departure for this cruise is 24 January 2022. You will be sailing in a Celebrity cruise ship with access to

top-notch service and luxurious accommodation, in addition to stunning itineraries, amazing entertainment, and award-winning cuisine.

One of the most attractive features of this cruise is that at least 75 percent of staterooms have a private balcony. Other highlights include:

  • Fitness center with classes and modern equipment
  • Access to a lovely roof-top garden, a roof-top terrace for watching movies under the stars, a lawn club, adult-only solariums, Jacuzzis, and pools.
  • Delicious meals served in the main dining rooms and a selection of cafes, grills, bistros, and room service

Concierge Class accommodations offer extra amenities such as embarkation day lunch, an exclusive pre-departure lounge, and priority check-in.

There is also a dedicated Concierge desk onboard, as well as delectable treats and complimentary shoeshine service delivered every day to your stateroom.

AquaClass staterooms are normally located near the Spa and are usually equipped with aromatherapy diffusers.

You will also be able to eat at Blu restaurant, which offers healthy, nourishing cuisine, as well as have unlimited access to the Spa thermal suite.

If you have booked a Panama Canal or Caribbean cruise that is passing through Cartagena, you are in for a big treat.

This beautiful old town along Colombia’s Caribbean coast is regarded as the most popular tourist attraction in the country.

Here, you will be enthralled by a fascinating – and often quite dark – history embedded in ancient palaces, churches, and forts.

The town is packed with delightful restaurants, world-class scuba diving and snorkeling reefs, soft beaches, 16 th /17 th century Spanish colonial architecture, and a number of shops.

You will definitely find yourself wishing for more time to explore further.

gay cruises from tampa

While Tampa may not be as popular as a few other gaycation destinations in Florida such as Key West and Miami, the city still has a lot to offer in terms of attractions and things to do.

Not to mention Gay St Pete is literally just across the other side, with its miles of sandy beaches and waterfront.

As you hunt for gay cruises from Tampa, consider spending a little time exploring the west coast, with perhaps a stop at the Cuban district of Tampa, the historic Ybor City, and the University of Tampa.

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11 Night Ultimate Caribbean LGBT Cruise Group from Tampa, FL Mar 6-17, 2023

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gay cruises from tampa

This cruise is completed .  Please click here and visit next year's cruise to Alaska on July 28, 2024

The following are included on our LGBT cruise group:

  •          Welcome aboard cocktail party, with complimentary beverages and canapes, exclusive to our group
  •          Private dining room tables for members of our group. (Early Dining)
  •          On-board MIM Travel tour escort**
  •          Hospitality Room for members of our group (subject to availability)
  •          All meals and great entertainment
  •          Exclusive entertainment by Bob Lawson's Mind Gaymes**
  •          Special organized activities during days at sea, eg. card games, movies, lectures, etc.
  •          Optional private group shore excursions whenever numbers warrant**
  •          Pre-dinner cocktail get-togethers on a number of days
  •          Classic Beverage Package
  •          Complimentary Gratuities
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When checking for rates please fill in our Travel Agency ACCAM Number:  F202778 Click the image:

gay cruises from tampa

A NEW WORLD IS WAITING

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Discover a vacation like no other aboard Celebrity Constellation®. Set sail and experience luxury at every turn. Enjoy unforgettable spaces, world-class amenities, and all of the distinct features that make our cruises so incredible. Relax and unwind in stylish accommodations that include Concierge Class and our spa-inspired AquaClass® with exclusive clean cuisine dining at Blu. Our luxurious suite experience, The Retreat®, features private restaurant dining and 24/7 lounge. Enjoy dining options that include distinctive restaurants with menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs and an award-winning wine collection. Surrender your senses and feel rejuvenated with soothing spa treatments and therapies at The Spa. And that’s not all. Enjoy shopping at the finest boutiques and family-fun activities, including cooking classes, recreational games, such as archery, Silent Disco, STEM, and theatrical events. Set sail and come back rejuvenated with a whole new level of vacation relaxation.

Inaugural Date : May 12, 2002 - Occupancy 2184 - Tonnage 90,940 - Length 965 ft - Beam 105.6 ft - Cruising Speed 24 Knots - Draught 26 ft

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SPECIAL SAVINGS - Book between December 9 and March 1, 2023 and receive 60% off the 2nd & 4th guest per stateroom or 75% off with non-refundable deposit rates. Cruise Only/No Perk Rates are also available.  Please enquire.*  

FlexPay – Our new Scheduled Payment program let s you customize how and when you pay your reservation balance . Check with us for details.

Here are some images from previous cruises, credit goes to http://www.dondalyphoto.com/

gay cruises from tampa

DINING : Our group will be seated at Early Dining. If you wish to dine at other times, please note that you will not be dining with our group.

PLEASE NOTE:  GUARANTEE CATEGORIES, Z,Y,X, AND XC, DO NOT INCLUDE DRINKS, WIFI AND GRATUITIES.

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* Taxes of 13.5% and $1.20 TMD fee are extra.

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Reservations must be made online using the following link:

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gay cruises from tampa

NOTICE : For U.S. cruises and guests : Prior to booking, please consult all applicable U.S. Centers for Disease Control travel advisories, warnings, or recommendations relating to cruise travel, available at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/notices . If a certain threshold level of COVID-19 is detected onboard your cruise ship during your voyage, your voyage will be ended immediately and the ship will return to the port of embarkation, and your subsequent travel, including your return home, may be restricted or delayed. For cruises and guests worldwide: Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, as well as regional travel restrictions and clearance to visit ports of call, are subject to change without notice based on ongoing evaluation, public health standards, and government requirements. Onboard and destination experiences, features, itineraries and guest conduct rules vary by ship and destination and are subject to change without notice.

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Welcome to VACAYA, a vibrant and inclusive travel community, where every journey is a celebration of diversity, love, and freedom to explore the world authentically as your true self.

If you need assistance, we’re just an email or phone call away. Our V Team vacation planners can be reached via phone at +1.718.504.0404 or through SMS chat here on our website Mon-Fri 10am-4pm ET. Outside of those hours, feel free to send us an email at [email protected] .

Remember… even when our offices are closed, you can book online 24×7 by clicking any of the big pink BOOK NOW buttons for your desired trip. Then, simply follow the prompts. If you already know which trip you’d like to book, start HERE . Over 99% of our guests book using our online reservations system. You’ve got this!

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Vacaya is the first  large-scale adults-only vacation company on earth built for the entire lgbtqiapk community and their straight ally friends.

VACAYA – Gay & LGBT+ Cruises & Resort Vacations Reimagined

VACAYA completely reinvents the all-gay cruise and all-inclusive gay resort concepts by opening up the experience to lesbians, bisexuals, trans persons, queer men/women, those questioning their sexuality, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and polyamorous individuals, as well as gay men who’ve enjoyed the typical gay cruise experience. VACAYA is the only large-scale adults-only vacation company on earth built for the entire LGBTQIAPK community and their straight ally friends. VACAYA offers fun easy vacations with customized itineraries, personalized service, tailored entertainment, welcoming activities, friendly parties, and transformative moments. Shared experiences with like-minded LGBT+ adults and friends give us a new perspective on the world and remind us how lucky we are to be alive. VACAYA charters the entire ship or resort so we have the freedom to express our individuality, make personal connections, celebrate life, rev up, or simply relax… together. Our mission is to fulfill the vacation dreams of all adults who believe “love is love” while giving back to the community and immersing our guests in the cultures and places we visit around the world.

All-Inclusive Resorts – Staying at a VACAYA Oasis all-inclusive resort delivers a truly relaxing and exhilarating vacation because nearly everything is included for one incredible price. Our resorts offer scores of daytime activities, exclusive nightly entertainment, gourmet restaurants, exquisite turquoise waters, and sun-soaked beaches. But that’s only the beginning. These are places where we come together and feel part of a bigger family. With so much included, all that’s left to do is have fun and enjoy the value! Occasionally, we’ll offer something altogether different with VACAYA Oasis and we’ll be sure to list all that’s included/not included on the trip’s VALUE page.

LGBT+ Cruises – Life on the open water is about savoring the good times, finding beauty in the details, appreciating friends, and discovering new ones. Sailing the seven seas is about leaving the ordinary behind. It’s the moments we spend connecting, laughing, and living life to the fullest. Its possibilities are endless and exciting. Sensual. Life changing. These experiences connect us to each other. They open our minds and unify our rhythm.

This is the spirit of VACAYA. open sea. open mind.

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The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

A party on board The Cruise With La Demence

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Travelers lounge on a gay cruise with VACAYA

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

The pool on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Travelers on an all-gay cruise with Brand g Vacations pose in front of the Taj Mahal

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

gay cruises from tampa

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Aerial shot of Celebrity Cruises ship Celebrity Apex at sunset

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Young Lesbian Couple on Boat Trip on Summer Vacations.

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Aerial shot of Royal Caribbean International cruise ship

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

A party on board The Cruise With La Demence

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

  • Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
  • Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Cruise Lines
  • The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
  • The Top Themed Cruises
  • The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
  • The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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BearCruise

New Orleans Mardi Gras Cruise

8 nights, march 1-9, 2025.

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ON THE CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION, March 1-9, 2025

Immerse yourself in the music, parades, picnics, and floats that make Mardi Gras an unforgettable holiday in the city. After three exciting days in the heart of the festivities, we will continue our journey to the beach city of Progreso, Mexico .

Progreso offers a picturesque oceanfront setting with beautiful beaches, charming thatch-roofed restaurants, and lively bars. Don’t miss out on this incredible 8-night getaway packed with unforgettable experiences.

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Our Beach Bears love Progreso, Mexico!

  • The first price listed is the cruise only rate.  The second price is the cruise with classic drink package & internet  Price quotes were updated on March 20, 2024 and are subject to change without notice.  Submit your information on this website for an exact quote.  Your cabin fare is locked in upon receipt of your deposit.
  • All prices include taxes and port fees, but do not include ship gratuities, which are $18 per day for non-suite cabins.
  • All deposits are $500 per cabin and are non-refundable.
  • Final Payment is due 90 days prior to sailing (December 1, 2024)

Double Occupancy Prices:

Aqua Class (Includes Blu Restaurant) – $3013 pp / $3568 per person (pp) Guarantee Aqua (Includes Blu) – $2913 pp / $3468 pp Prime Veranda (Balcony) – $2681 pp / $3249 pp Veranda (Balcony) – SOLD OUT Partial View Veranda – $2641 pp / $3209 pp Deluxe and Prime Ocean View – SOLD OUT Ocean View – $1692.56 pp / $2311 pp Guarantee Ocean View – $1623 pp / $2242 pp Inside – $1405 pp / $2085 pp Guarantee Inside – $1336 pp / $1891 pp

Single Occupancy Prices –

Unfortunately Celebrity has recently significantly raised rates on solo travelers, often three times more than the double-occupancy pp rates you see above!  This is outrageous, but also out of our control.  For more information, see Forbes Magazine – “Solo Penalty:  Cruise Line Charges Single Travelers Much More Than Double .

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When you book with BearCruise, you get all the BearCruise Extras: nightly cocktails, group dining, private shore excursions  and events!

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Complete Guide to Cruising From Port Tampa Bay

In our opinion, Port Tampa Bay is one of the best-kept secrets in cruising. While ports on the eastern side of Florida — including Miami, Port Everglades, and Port Canaveral — are well known thanks to the mega-ships and multiple terminals at each port, Tampa seems to sneak under the radar.

Port of Tampa Bay Terminal 2

Despite the lack of notoriety, Port Tampa Bay offers a ton for cruise passengers. This includes multiple terminals with a constant stream of ships, lots to do in the area, more convenience, and fewer headaches than dealing with a larger port.

In other words, you get a lot of the benefits of a larger port without a lot of the drawbacks.

So whether you want to sail to The Bahamas, Mexico, or points in between, or if you want to sail on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, or Norwegian, the port has something to offer.

Below we dive into all the details of everything you need to know about sailing from the Port Tampa Bay.

  • Distance from Tampa Airport: 10 miles
  • Distance from Orlando Airport: 90 miles
  • Number of Terminals: 3
  • Passengers Carried Each Year: 1 million
  • Cruise Ship Dockings Each Year: 180+

Port Tampa Bay Location

The cruise port sits in the Channel District of Tampa, which is just a couple of minutes from downtown, as well as the popular Ybor City area. If you are flying in, the port is only about 10 miles from Tampa International Airport, which will take you about 15-20 minutes.

While the location of the port is convenient for cruise passengers with lots to do and places to stay just a few minutes away, there is one drawback. When you head out to sea you will leave Tampa and head out of Tampa Bay, passing between St. Petersburg and Bradenton. There, you will pass under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

While the bridge is impressive, its height actually limits the size of the ships that can sail from Tampa. Larger ships just can’t get under the bridge. This is a reason why some of the biggest and newest ships don’t sail from the port.

Driving to the port? If so, the address you’ll want to use is:

651 Channelside Drive Tampa, Florida 33602

Like other Florida cities there is a lot to do in the area, and you may not be coming directly from the airport to the cruise port. If so, we have the estimated distances and drive times between a number of popular areas in the region:

  • Tampa International Airport: 10 miles | 15-20 minutes
  • Orlando International Airport: 90 miles | 1 hr 30 minutes
  • St. Petersburg: 25 miles | 30-40 minutes
  • Ybor City: 2 miles | 10 minutes
  • Disney World: 70 miles | 1 hr 10 minutes
  • Lakeland: 36 miles | 40-60 minutes
  • Clearwater: 25 miles | 40-60 minutes
  • Sarasota: 60 miles | 55-70 minutes

For more on getting to the port, see below.

Things to Do Near the Port

Tampa is blessed with no shortage of things to do, whether you want amusement parks, sporting events, culture, history, or more. Below are just a few things to do before or after your cruise.

The Florida Aquarium Literally right next door to the cruise terminals, the Florida Aquarium is a world-class facility with lots to see. Perfect if you have kids, the aquarium will get them up close and personal not only with fish, sharks, and turtles, but also wildlife like otters, lemurs, and more. In our opinion, if you have a couple of hours before or after your cruise, it’s a can’t miss attraction.

Ybor City Just about 10 minutes from the cruise port, Ybor City is a great place to head if you’re looking for something to do in the evening. The historic district is home to lots of older buildings that have been converted into shops and restaurants, most with a Latin flair. It’s great for a date night or just a stroll to explore and take in the atmosphere.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Want to have a little fun at the casino? Then head to the Seminole Hard Rock. The world-class gaming facility would fit right at home in Vegas, with a massive gaming floor, restaurants, and a hotel. It’s about 15-20 minutes away from the cruise port, but if you want to play slots, double down on blackjack, or toss the dice, then it’s a great place to spend some time (and money).

Cruise Terminals

Port Tampa Bay operates three different cruise terminals: Cruise Terminal #2, Cruise Terminal #3, and Cruise Terminal #6.

Port of Tampa map

Cruise Terminal #2 If the port had a “main” terminal, this would be it. Terminal #2 sits at the southern end of the cruise complex. Parking is adjacent to the terminal, as is the Florida Aquarium and a complex of shops and restaurants.

Cruise Terminal #3 Along the eastern edge of the port, Cruise Terminal #3 often serves Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines. The location is right across from the official port parking garage, and with a berth length of 1,050 feet, the docking space can handle the larger ships to call on Port Tampa Bay.

Cruise Terminal #6 This terminal is the northernmost of the three terminals. That makes it extremely convenient if you just want to get to the ship and get on as there is parking right at the terminal and there isn’t as much traffic here. However, the terminal is a little farther from some of the activities like the aquarium and restaurants/shops that are further south in the complex.

Hotels Near the Port Tampa Bay

In a tourist hotspot like Tampa, there’s no shortage of places to stay. That means it can be convenient — and inexpensive — to stay the night before your cruise.

In general, we recommend that passengers flying in for their cruise plan to arrive a day early and stay the night. There are simply too many issues that can come up with flying that can cause delays to risk flying in on the day your cruise departs.

If you are driving in from the area, then you are usually fine driving to the port on the morning of your trip, but it still makes a lot of sense to stay in Tampa the night before. Not only is there a lot to see and do in the area, but it’s nice to already be in town on cruise day, meaning you can take your time in heading to the ship.

While the entire Tampa area can offer hotels, there aren’t many right at the port. The closest hotels are in downtown, which is a short distance away. There are also some hotels in Ybor City, which is also nearby.

Hotels near the cruise terminals:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District
  • Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District
  • Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel

As a city that caters to cruise passengers, there are also a number of Tampa hotels that offer parking during your cruise , as well as hotels with cruise shuttles . Below are a few options for each, but we suggest seeing our full list in the articles linked above.

Hotels with cruise parking:

  • Barrymore Hotel
  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Channel District
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa East – Ybor City

Hotels with shuttles/near streetcar stop:

  • Tampa Marriott Water Street
  • Hilton Garden Inn Ybor City
  • Courtyard Tampa Downtown

Getting to Port Tampa Bay

Of course you can’t go on your cruise until you get to the ship. Fortunately, there is no shortage of ways to get from anywhere in the Tampa area to the cruise port, all at an affordable price.

We have all of your options and full details for getting to the port here . Below, we cover the most common ways for getting to the Port Tampa Bay.

Norwegian Sun in Port

Driving to the Port Many people elect to drive to the port, whether they live in the area or they fly in and have a rental car. Coming from Orlando? Expect the drive to take about an hour and a half. From spots in the Tampa/St. Pete region, it can take anywhere from 10-30 minutes, depending on where you are.

Driving definitely offers convenience of getting in and out from the port without relying on someone else to give you a ride. As well, Tampa offers relatively inexpensive parking. Official port parking is only $15 per day, but other independent lots can be even cheaper. (More on this below.)

Uber/Lyft Uber and Lyft are popular options to get around the Tampa Bay area because they make it easy to get from Point A to Point B, no matter where you are trying to go. Simply open up the app, request a ride and it should be there within minutes (even the airport). They also offer rates that are usually less expensive than taxi cabs. For instance, a taxi ride from the airport to the cruise port is a flat $30. It would be around $25 with Uber/Lyft.

Below we’ve estimated Uber/Lyft fares from certain points around town:

  • Tampa International Airport: $20-25
  • Orlando International Airport: $95-105
  • St. Petersburg: $35-45
  • Ybor City: $10
  • Disney World: $75-85
  • Lakeland: $40-50
  • Clearwater: $35-40
  • Sarasota: $60-65

Hotels with Cruise Shuttles Planning to stay at a hotel before your cruise? Some hotels offer shuttles to the cruise port as a perk for cruise passengers. Others are near public transportation that can get you to the ship in just a few minutes. No matter which option you choose, selecting a hotel with a shuttle can take a lot of the headache out of getting to the ship on embarkation day. See our article for a full list of Tampa hotels with cruise shuttles .

One of the best things about cruising from Port Tampa Bay is that parking is both convenient and inexpensive compared to other ports in Florida. For example, while parking for the Port of Miami is upwards of $20+ per day, you’ll only pay $15 — and at some lots much lower — to park for a Tampa cruise.

Hotels in Tampa with park and cruise deals

Official Port Parking Many people like to park at the official port parking lots. They offer a lot of convenience as they are right next to the cruise terminals. The main parking spot is a garage located across from terminals 2 and 3. Rates are $15 per day and you can pay in advance online to have everything taken care of before you arrive. There is also oversized vehicle parking available. There is also valet parking available for an additional $20. Terminal #6 has parking right next to the ship in an open-air lot.

If you are disabled, you may be eligible for free parking. The official port lots allow those with vehicle modifications such as ramps, or foot/hand controls to park for free if they are sailing. Also, 100% disabled veterans with license plates designating the car as such can also park for free.

Independent Lots One of the reasons that Tampa charges relatively little for parking is that the port faces a lot of competition. There are a number of independent lots that line Channelside Drive, in some cases costing as little as $7 per day (plus taxes and fees).

What’s the catch? There really isn’t one. These companies simply compete with the port for your business, and their main weapon is having lower rates. In fact, these lots are often right near the cruise terminal themselves and usually offer a shuttle if you don’t want to make the short walk.

For more details and pricing, see our Tampa cruise parking page here .

Hotels with Cruise Parking One of the best-kept secrets in cruising is that many hotels near cruise ports love to offer cruise parking to passengers in exchange for a single night’s stay. Book a room, get a night’s stay and have your parking taken care of as well. That’s hard to beat. Often you’ll need to book a package with the hotel that includes cruise parking, but it often includes both parking and transportation to the ship. See our list of Tampa hotels with cruise parking here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest way to get to Port Tampa Bay? Need to get to the port? There are a number of ways to get there. While there is some public transportation offered, it’s not particularly convenient, unless you are coming from Ybor City. Ybor City has a rail line ( TECO Streetcar ) that runs back and forth from Ybor City to the port area.

Other than that, the least expensive way we’ve found to get around is using Uber and Lyft. For example, it would cost around $25 to get from the airport to the cruise port using Lyft.

What’s the cheapest parking for a Tampa cruise? The lowest rate we know is about $4 per day, through 717 Parking. They operate a Union Station Lot that’s a mile or two from the cruise terminals. There is no shuttle offered, so you’ll have to get a ride to the cruise terminals. Still, to park for a week you won’t find any cheaper place unless you stay at a hotel with free cruise parking. See more on parking options here .

Where should I stay in Tampa before my cruise? We suggest trying to find a hotel in downtown Tampa or in Ybor City. Both areas are near the port and have a number of things to do. Staying here essentially adds another port of call to your cruise with lots to do and explore. Plus, it’s easy to get to the cruise ship from either location on embarkation day.

Have more questions about sailing from Tampa? Let us know in the comments below.

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Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 16 tampa hotels with shuttles or transportation to the cruise port, 5 easy ways to get to the tampa cruise port (port transportation), tampa cruise parking options, prices, and maps (where to park), 15 convenient tampa “park and cruise” hotels (highly rated), explained: free disabled parking for florida cruises.

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CocoCay in Cozumel? Royal Caribbean Announces New Destination in Mexico

Los angeles & long beach cruise parking (where to park), this cruise line is taking a page from southwest airlines’ playbook (and it’s great for customers), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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View of the Tampa Bay Skyline, Tampa, Florida

Cruise from Tampa, Florida

Swashbuckling adventure.

Unlock a treasure trove of adventures on Florida’s west coast, plus cruises to the Western Caribbean.

Brilliance of the Seas sailing from Tampa, Florida

SAIL ON BRILLIANCE OF THE SEAS

Brilliance of the Seas® is the ultimate way to visit off-the-beaten-path wonders. Go from sun-soaked beaches and colorful colonial towns ashore, to unforgettable experiences onboard — like world-class shows and entertainment and foodie-approved flavors from around the world. Explore Brilliance of the Seas

Serenade of the Seas Aerial View

SAIL ON SERENADE OF THE SEAS

If you’re looking for laid-back vacation vibes, Serenade of the Seas® is the perfect home base for adventure. While you’re onboard, kick back poolside at the adults-only Solarium, go vertical for views on the guest-favorite rock climbing wall, and treat yourself to dining that’s as epic as the destinations you visit. Explore Serenade of the Seas

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A BOLDER WAY TO GETAWAY WEEKEND CRUISES

Break up with your weekly routine and set sail on a memory filled getaway that’ll take you so much further than a standard staycation. Royal Caribbean® offers plenty of bolder-than-ever weekend sailings to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning shores onboard the world’s most incredible cruise ships — no days off required. Which means you can fill your year with even more bucket list adventures.

Beautiful Beach with Mayan Ruins, Tulum, Mexico

Tampa Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in tampa.

tampa florida downtown skyline

CULTURE FIX

tampa florida downtown skyline

Stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk and see where it leads you. You might explore interactive exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center, or go stand-up paddleboarding from the Sail Pavilion. Tampa Museum of Art’s collections range from ancient to modern— and the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is home to splash fountains, a playground and skyline views.

Girl Running to the Beach, Tampa, Florida

HIT THE SAND

Girl Running to the Beach, Tampa, Florida

A short 30-minute drive west of downtown lands you along the Gulf of Mexico coast, which is fringed by a string of sugary beaches. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach both offer an upbeat seaside atmosphere, while Caladesi Island State Park and Fort DeSoto Park provide serene shoreline settings.

Coral Underwater, Tampa, Florida

Enter the Florida Aquarium to encounter over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals. Cruise to Tampa and see river otters on the Florida Wetlands Trail and ring-tailed lemurs on the Journey to Madagascar. Then say hello to goliath grouper, stingrays, reef fishes, sea turtles and sharks in the Bays & Beaches habitat.

Local Cuisine Cuban Sandwich, Tampa, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

Tampa’s food scene stems from a fusion of Cuban, Spanish, Italian and Floribbean influences. Local raw bars serve up fresh shrimp, oysters, scallops and grouper from the Gulf of Mexico. The Cuban sandwich— piled with Genoa salami— is a city signature. For a taste of authentic Florida Cracker cuisine, try sofkee porridge, pilau (rice cakes) or fried alligator tail during your next Tampa cruise.

Shopping Purses, Tampa, Florida

Pick up tropical apparel and Florida-inspired souvenirs at the outdoor Channelside Bay Plaza, right at the port. Head to Hyde Park Village for upscale boutique stores, and stop in local sportswear outfitter Salt Pines. Nothing beats Ybor City when it comes to quirky vintage stores and hand-rolled cigars.

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Gay Moscow Moscow City Guide

Moscow invariably hits the headlines for all the wrong reasons. And though the Russian capital isn’t particularly LGBTQ-friendly (Vladimir Putin’s annual shirtless photoshoot notwithstanding), we don’t think you should miss out on the most intriguing of Moscow points of interest because of it. Homosexuality is legal, although a vaguely-worded 2013 law prohibits the promotion of ‘non-traditional’ relationships. As such, gay travellers are advised against overt displays of their sexuality. That said, the vast majority of visits remain trouble-free, even for visitors who frequent the city’s less-than-secret gay bar and club scene.

Feel like getting away? Take a trip planned just for you, and let us do all the work. Discover Trip Design

The best hotels in Moscow

The historic exterior of the Hotel Metropol , facing the internationally-celebrated Bolshoi Theatre and close to many of the other main things to do in Moscow, is nothing compared to its sumptuous interiors. Its decor recalls the no-expense-spared philosophy of the grand imperial era that climaxed at the turn of the 1900s. Marble detailing, decorative plasterwork, and a breathtaking stained-glass roof enclosing the vast dining hall is the result. Though the hotel is large – with 365 rooms, there is a different bed for every day of the year – each room is uniquely shaped in the art deco style, ensuring a personal feel. The rooms at the Russo-Balt Hotel are also individually decorated, but in the earlier art nouveau style of swirling floral motifs, blown-glass chandeliers, and richly carved woods. Stand out features include a pillow menu and breakfasts which incorporate produce from the hotel’s private farm.

Rooms at the PR Myasnitsky Boutique Hotel have a more playful, contemporary look, combining bare brick with sleek pieces of modern furniture, all within the large public spaces of the nineteenth-century edifice. Each features a small fridge and capsule coffee machine. As a self-declared design hotel, rest assured that any stay at Akvarel Hotel will be an elegant one, with every detail considered from the moment you step across the threshold. The chic mid-century design flows effortlessly from the lobby bar and summer terrace to the rooms, each of which has been custom-styled with fanciful furnishings. A little further away, on the Third Ring Road in the Basmanny district, is the three-star Boutique Hotel Baumanskiy . The modern building features quirky in-room works of art and the offer of complimentary coffees at reception. The carpeted interiors give this stay a homely ambience, which marries well with breakfast – which is served in your room.

Photo: Crew

Photo: Crew

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- Gay Moscow - Moscow

Opposite the Bolshoi Theatre in the heart of Moscow, this historical hotel features a pool and gym. It offers free parking, as well as free WiFi throughout the property.

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PR Myasnitsky Boutique Hotel

PR Myasnitsky Boutique Hotel features some rooms with Myasnitskaya Street views. A rich breakfast is served in the Market Place restaurant, located nearby.

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Boutique Hotel Baumanskiy

Situated conveniently in the Basmanny district of Moscow, Boutique Hotel Baumanskiy is located 6 km from Olympic Stadium, 7 km from The Kremlin and 7 km from Zaryadye Park.

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Russo-Balt Hotel

Housed in an elegant building dating back to 1876 with a private garden, this central Moscow hotel serves an elegant breakfast, prepared from organic products from the private farm.

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Akvarel Hotel

Hotel Akvarel is located in the heart of Moscow’s historic centre. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel. Teatralnaya Metro Station is a 7-minute walk away.

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Brick Design Hotel

Featuring free WiFi, Brick Design Hotel offers accommodation in the centre of Moscow in the 19th-century historical building. Chistye Prudy Metro Station is 300 m from the hotel.

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Villa Kadashi

Villa Kadashi Boutique Hotel is set right in the heart of Moscow, an 11-minute walk from Zaryadye Park. Around 1 km from The Kremlin, the property is also close to Saint Basil’s Cathedral.

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Explore the 10 best Paris museums

Paris boasts an enormous number of museums and galleries dedicated to mapping the city’s cultural and art history. Hosting countless architectural feats and artistic gems prized within its many institutions all lined with important Paris monuments, Paris is just begging to be explored.

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The best hotels with Michelin-starred restaurants 

While many of the world’s great hotels have at least one on-site restaurant that could stand alone as a worthy eatery, there are a few pairings that we just have to mention, all of them hosting Michelin-starred restaurants.

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The ultimate Tanzania itinerary - Enjoy 10 days in majestic gay Tanzania

To the north, the dusty red carpet of the Serengeti rolls out ceremoniously for thirsty giraffes, lions and herds of wildebeests undertaking the Great Migration, and meanwhile on Zanzibar Island, spice-scented scenes unfold in the buzzing heritage centre of Stone Town.

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Pride 2007: The State of Moscow’s Gay Movement

Pride Russia LGBTQ Propaganda

5 June 2007

I had expected a long day with crowds of old women clutching icons and tossing rotten eggs and curses, and skinheads and football fans throwing punches. Instead I spent most of two hours trying to get to the scene, peering over the shoulders of police to try and see what was happening, and asking friendly-looking bystanders for their opinions and accounts of what they had seen.

While I was disappointed to find Moscow Pride 2007 shut down by police, I was certainly not sad to miss what had been shaping up in the past months to be a pogrom. However, it turns out I missed a lot: The eggs, the skinheads, and the bloodletting had started early that day, before I arrived, and had been broken up quickly. One young lesbian activist complained, “They (the police) watched while the homophobes hit one of our people, and then they arrested our guy and let the homophobes go free.” Indeed, by the time I was able to get across the street, I saw far more anti-gay demonstrators walking around than LBGT supporters.

Luzhkov reflects the position of the Moscow city government, which condemns non-traditional sexuality, along with drug use and extremism, as “negative influences on youth.” Against what it calls the “imposition of free and non-traditional sexual relations” on Moscow’s youth, this year  the city government prohibited the Pride event , as they have done in previous years.

Official support for the LGBT community in Russia has been rare. One notable exception has come from Aleksandr Mitrofanov, a state Duma deputy with the LDPR party. While the party is considered by most to be ultranationalist and socially conservative, libertarian-leaning Mitrofanov helped organize this year’s Pride and has publicly supported same-sex marriage. Despite his support, and a petition signed by dozens of European Parliament members in support of tolerance towards “sexual minorities,” the Moscow city government remains opposed to any pro-LGBT demonstrations in the city.

Smashed-up faces at this year’s demonstration included those of British activists with the organization  Outrage! as well as those of a number of Russian demonstrators. One demonstrator mentioned that journalists and their equipment were also targeted. The violence did not end there, either. According to one article,  skinheads sought out and beat up “a minimum of four victims”  in the metro following the event on Tverskaya.

Another explanation for the low turnout of this year’s event may well be the state of the Russian LGBT movement itself. “There’s a lot of division in the gay movement,” explained an activist just after the demonstration. To be sure, some members of the community viewed the Pride march as a provocation that would inevitably bring a dangerous backlash. For example, the following appeared as a “reader response” to  a related article  posted on the  Gay.ru website in mid-May:

Just like last time. For some, it’s PR and money. For others who participate, it’s a couple of lumps from OMON. Still others won’t even go out on the streets for two weeks for fear of landing in the hospital. They won’t beat [us] in front of the TV cameras, but outside the clubs. Last year three dozen. How many this year? And for what?…Waving flags now is like waving a rag in front of a bull’s nose. It will get worse.

Whatever the truth of these and other claims, what surprised me the most was how difficult it was to find out when and where the march would be held, its purposes, or what to expect from the event. Instead of spreading flyers or organizing in the clubs, organizers withheld information until a press conference the day before the event, claiming caution. Also notable was organizers’ reliance on the support of foreign organizations like the UK’s  Outrage!  and the European Parliament, with an equally notable absence of support within Russia, both from within the LGBT community and from Russian organizations in the field of human rights.

A gay acquaintance of mine told me, “There hasn’t been a gay movement here since the 1990s.” The movement was then, as now, troubled by questions of foreign involvement, by debates about the nature and purposes of LGBT activism, and by different understandings of sexual identity. In her 1999 book  Queer in Russia  sociologist Laurie Essig writes that the movement of the early 90s collapsed under fatigue, demoralization, internal differences, “disillusionment with Western models of organizing and identity,” lack of support, “and a general feeling that the politics of sexual identity was not meant to flourish on Russian soil.”

The Russian government decriminalized same-sex relations in 1993, but that does not mean that further change and activism are unnecessary here. Sexual minorities continue to be targets of violence on the streets, widespread discrimination, vitriol from public officials and the Church, and general disapproval from straight society. Still, it remains to be seen on what basis a movement for LGBT rights and safety can grow and succeed.

As far as Pride is concerned, I watched the event from a more or less safe distance across the wall of police and steered clear of everyone with a shaved head, an icon, or a uniform. I wasn’t and am still not sure where I’d fit in a movement that still remains to be built on its own terms, if such a movement is to be built at all. I grieve for the lack of safety here in the free expression of non-traditional sexual identities, which for many of us extend beyond sexual practice alone into the routines of daily life. I am outraged by the treatment of LGBT people by the Moscow city government. Yet if there is to be a movement here it must address the needs and concerns of the people it purports to represent. More than that, it cannot simply represent Russian sexual minorities, but has to come from them and be built by them, rather than imported wholesale. Lastly, for those of us in Europe and the US who support equal rights, it would do to think carefully what support actually means.

In the meantime, I share the frustrated optimism of one demonstrator who, assessing this year’s Pride, sighed and said, “We really thought it would be better this year.”

All quotes here have been translated from Russian to English by the author, who takes sole responsibility for any errors made therein. Most links lead to Russian-language sources on the conservative, government, and LGBT websites. If you are sensitive to such material, do not click the links. 

About the Author

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Kathleen Feyh

Kathleen Feyh is a PhD Student at the University of Texas, Austin. She has spent the past two semesters with SRAS in Moscow, performing research for her dissertation on Russian hip hop culture. Married to her partner of the past eight years, she has been active for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transsexual (LGBT) causes in the US and decided to attend the controversial Gay Pride in Moscow as a reporter/observer to see where the movement is here.

View all posts by: Kathleen Feyh

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Royal Caribbean suspends cruise stops to resort in Haiti amid violence

  • Vinod Sreeharsha Miami Herald (TNS)

Royal Caribbean has canceled cruise ship stops to a private area in Haiti as the nation faces ongoing violence and rising political uncertainty.

The Miami-based cruise company, which has a resort in Haiti called Labadee, said Thursday that it has suspended stops there for the next several days.

Passengers and crew haven’t faced violence or threats, and the move is a preventive measure, the company said.

“We have not had any security concerns; this was done out of abundance of caution,” Jonathon Fishman, director of corporate and incident communications for The Royal Caribbean Group, said in a statement sent to the Miami Herald on Thursday.

Over the past several weeks, Haiti has faced a new phase of civil unrest as gangs unleashed havoc, blocked airports and shut down the main port, making it difficult for needed supplies to reach Haitians. Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced he would resign from his post. He had backed a plan for a presidential council that would select the country’s next leader, but other Haitian political leaders rejected that plan, creating more uncertainty.

Royal Caribbean said that its global security and intel team is closely monitoring the situation in Haiti, and that “we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee.”

Labadee is a resort in the north of Haiti, far from the gang violence and civil unrest in major cities Cap-Haitien and Port-au-Prince. The resort is fenced and has its own security.

Haiti maintains sovereignty over Labadee, but leased it to Royal Caribbean in 1985 for its exclusive use as a resort for cruise passengers.

The ships affected by the carrier’s decision to suspend all calls to Labadee are the following, according to the company:

  • Oasis of the Seas — March 10 and March 17 sailings
  • Symphony of the Seas — March 9 and March 17 sailings
  • Adventure of the Seas — March 15 sailing
  • Mariner of the Seas — March 16 sailing
  • Explorer of the Seas — March 17 sailing
  • Grandeur of the Seas — March 18 sailing

“We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly,” the company said.

©2024 Miami Herald. Visit  miamiherald.com . Distributed by  Tribune Content Agency LLC.

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2 crew members die during 'incident' on Holland America cruise ship

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an “incident” in the ship's engineering space, the cruise line said.

The unidentified crew members died Friday while the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.

Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said. Crew members were being offered counseling.

“All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,” the statement said. “The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.”

The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members. It later said the Bahamas Maritime Authority was leading the investigation. The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

17 Best Moscow Tours

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Are you planning a visit to the capital of Russia and looking for the best Moscow tours? From Red Square to the Kremlin and from world-class art to fairytale buildings, Moscow is an enchanting city that offers plenty of excitement and elegance. Its history dates back more than 800 years, and there is culture in abundance for visitors to immerse themselves in.

Make the most of your visit with 17 of the best Moscow tours that let you see everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.

1 – Guided Tour of the Moscow Metro

Guided Tour of the Moscow Metro

Moscow’s metro is world-famous, thanks to the architectural delights on offer underground stations around the capital. This guided tour of the Moscow stations, otherwise known as “the palace of the people” lasts for 1.5 hours and includes an English-speaking guide who will tell you how the Russian metro became one of the most beautiful in the world. Highlights include Mayakovskaya station with its aviation-themed mosaics.

  • Moscow metro tours

2 – Cosmonautics Museum Space Tour

Cosmonautics Museum Space Tour

Discover Cosmonautics Museum with this space tour. Dive into one of the greatest battles between the Soviet Union and the United States – the space race. Hear about the space programs of the USSR and learn about how the USSR shaped space travel and technology.

  • Cosmonautics Museum tours

3 – Guided Tour of the Kremlin

Guided Tour of the Kremlin

A Kremlin is actually a citadel in Russian towns, and Moscow’s version is, without doubt, the most famous. The Kremlin is the heartbeat of the city, and this guided tour takes you to the most important points of interest. See Cathedral Square with its orthodox temples; Tzar Cannon with its 890mm calibre, which is the largest in the world; and the exterior of the all-important government buildings that are located within the Kremlin’s walls.

Click here to learn how to book Kremlin tickets .

  • Kremlin tours

4 – Moscow City Walking Tour

Moscow City Walking Tour

One of the best Moscow tours for seeing everything the city has to offer, this small-group walking tour lasts for 2 hours and includes an expert guide. Make the most of the capital and see the cobbled spaces of Red Square, take pictures of St Basil’s Cathedral, visit the elegant Bolshoi Theatre, and enjoy the ornamental Alexandrovsky Garden.

  • Moscow walking tours

5 – Night Tour of Moscow

Night Tour of Moscow

When the sun sets, the fun begins – and it all starts with a night tour of Russia’s most famous city. The beauty of Moscow comes into full effect after hours, as iconic buildings like St Basil’s Cathedral illuminate against the night sky. Other locations on this tour include the Moscow River and the Ukraine Hotel, which is a landmark skyscraper that was constructed during the era of Stalin.

6 – Sergiev Posad Day Trip

Sergiev Posad Day Trip

One of the best Moscow tours that take you outside of the city, the Sergiev Posad day trip provides the opportunity to see The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church. It’s made up of a number of different buildings that include the blue domes of the Cathedral of the Assumption, Church of St. Sergius and the Bell Tower.

  • Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow

7 – City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

If your time in Moscow is limited, this hop-on, hop-off bus tour is ideal – and it even features an optional cruise on the river. Choose between a 2 and 3-day ticket and see famous landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre from an open-top panoramic bus with informative audio commentary. Take your experience to the next level by upgrading to a boat tour.

  • Moscow hop on hop off bus tours

8 – Guided Tour of the Tretyakov Gallery

Guided Tour of the Tretyakov Gallery

As one of the world’s most important galleries, the Tretyakov Gallery is a must-see for any art lovers and is one of the best Moscow tours for culture vultures. Learn about the masterworks of Pablo Tretyakov with a guided tour and discover the secrets behind the paintings. Other noticeable artists on view include Fedotov, Vasnetsov, Rokotov and Kiprenski, who is the author of the famous “Portrait of Alexander Pushkin”.

  • Tretyakov Gallery tours

9 – Alternative Moscow: 2-Hour Walking Tour

Alternative Moscow: 2-Hour Walking Tour

See a different side of Moscow with this 2-hour alternative tour. An expert guide will take you around quirky streets, suburbs and squares while as your veer away from the traditional tourist hotspots. Highlights include a ride on the famous “Annushka” tram and a visit to the neighbourhood of Khitrovka, which was once known as the criminal district of the city.

10 – St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

St.Basil's Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

Combine two of Moscow’s biggest attractions with a visit to Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. Admire the beautiful architecture of St.Basil’s Cathedral from inside and out, before wandering Red Square and learn about the soldiers, farmers and revolutionaries that all called this famous square their home. Round things off with the changing of the guard at Alexander Garden.

  • Red Square tours

11 – Bunker-42 Cold War Museum Guided Tour

Bunker-42 Cold War Museum Guided Tour

Moscow is notorious for the Cold War, which lasted for about 45 years between 1945 and 1990. Head to the world-famous Bunker-42, located 65 meters below ground level, and learn about the storied past. Visit rooms and passages that were set up to shelter 3,000 people in case of nuclear attack and discover other sections, such as the equipment room and the war-proof telecommunications system.

  • Bunker-42 Cold War Museum tours

12 – Architecture Tour of Moscow’s Metro and Kolomenskoye Estate

Architecture Tour of Moscow's Metro and Kolomenskoye Estate

Combine the beauty of the metro stations with the Kolomenskoye Estate and see some of Moscow’s grandest sights. After visiting the elegant metro stations, it’s time to go to the Kolomenskoye Estate, which is filled with UNESCO-listed sites that are dedicated to Tsar Peter the Great.

  • Kolomenskoye tours

13 – Tour of Soviet Moscow

Tour of Soviet Moscow

Unpick the history of the USSR with one of the best Moscow tours for discovering Soviet Moscow. Starting at Monument to the Conquerors of Space, a tribute to the success of the Soviet space programme, the tour includes historical landmarks and interesting tidbits about Soviet Russia. There is also a visit to the All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh), a site that was constructed under the aegis of the USSR in tribute to state achievements.

14 – Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option

Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option

Sail down the Moscow River on this 2.5 hour tour that provides a different perspective of the city and includes landmark sights. The boat features two decks and has panoramic views as well as free Wi-Fi access. Attractions along the route include Ukraine hotel, Sparrow Hills, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Crimean Bridge, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Zaryadye Park and more.

  • Moscow boat tours

15 – Izmailovo Market and Vodka Museum Tour

Izmailovo Market and Vodka Museum Tour

Visit the museum of Vodka and gain insight into one of Russia’s most famous exports and head to the Izmailovo antique and handicraft market to find a gem or two. The tour starts with Izmailovo market, which features the iconic matryoshka dolls, fur hats and amber jewellery. Next up is a trip to the Museum of Vodka, where you will discover a distillery that dates back to the 15th century.

  • Izmailovo market tours

16 – Súzdal and Vladímir Day Tour

Súzdal and Vladímir Day Tour

Discover Russia’s famous “Golden Ring” on this tour of two medieval cities outside of Moscow. The historic city of Vladimir is first up with its Golden Gate, which is an ancient city-fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Next up is the neighbouring town of Suzdal, which features historic architecture and the Kremlin, where you can see its striking white walls topped with blue domes.

  • Suzdal & Vladimir tours from Moscow

17- Moscow Food Tasting & Walking Tour

Moscow Food Tasting & Walking Tour

Sample the unique flavours of Moscow with this food tour that lasts for 3 hours and features more than 15 different food and drink tastings. Weave in and out of small alleys in the city centre while enjoying the best food spots in town. See Moscow like a local while trying classic dishes from local breakfast haunts, bustling markets, the oldest monastery in Moscow, and dumpling cafes where you can taste authentic dumplings and enjoy local coffee.

  • Moscow food tours

WFTS - Tampa, Florida

Carnival Freedom cruise ship catches fire amid bad weather conditions

Carnival Freedom Fire

The Carnival Freedom caught fire while sailing in the Bahamas on Saturday, March 23. The ship was heading to Freeport after canceling a call to Princess Cay due to bad weather conditions.

According to a release from Carnival Cruise Line, the fire broke out on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel causing a portion of it to fall onto the deck.

Soon after the fire broke out, the captain turned the ship around toward an area with heavy rain to maximize efforts of extinguishing the flames.

The captain made several announcements to guests and crew and advised everyone to stay away from the balconies and all open decks.

No injuries to guests were reported, but two members of the firefighting crew were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

There were no operational issues with the ship's systems due to the fire, and all areas of the ship are fully functioning again, with the exception of the open decks.

No delays are expected to future voyages, and the ship plans to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday.

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    TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Carnival Cruise ship's funnel caught on fire during their voyage near the Bahamas on Saturday. Carnival said that at 3:15 p.m., the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on ...

  21. Tampa Bay, Florida news

    Powered by the Tampa Bay Times, tampabay.com is your home for breaking news you can trust. Set us as your home page and never miss the news that matters to you.

  22. Carnival Gay & Lesbian Cruises

    Carnival Cruises offers multiple gay & lesbian cruises to choose from. Check dates, prices and cruise ships to plan the perfect Carnival Gay & Lesbian Cruise for you.

  23. What Don't Say Gay really outlaws

    OK to say 'gay.' The DeSantis administration wasted no time this week spinning a settlement over Florida's Parental Rights in Education Act — also known as the Don't Say Gay law — as ...

  24. Gay Moscow Moscow City Guide

    Homosexuality is legal, although a vaguely-worded 2013 law prohibits the promotion of 'non-traditional' relationships. As such, gay travellers are advised against overt displays of their sexuality. That said, the vast majority of visits remain trouble-free, even for visitors who frequent the city's less-than-secret gay bar and club scene.

  25. Pride 2007: The State of Moscow's Gay Movement

    Pride 2007: The State of Moscow's Gay Movement. 5 June 2007. When I first arrived at Tverskaya Square just after noon on May 27th, all I could see were police uniforms. The police and OMON, the riot specialists of the Russian police force, had the square, the crosswalk, and the area in front of the mayor's office completely blocked off.

  26. Royal Caribbean suspends cruise stops to resort in Haiti amid violence

    Royal Caribbean has canceled cruise ship stops to a private area in Haiti as the nation faces ongoing violence and rising political uncertainty. The Miami-based cruise company, which has a resort ...

  27. 2 crew members die during 'incident' on Holland America cruise ship

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an "incident" in the ship's engineering space, the cruise line said. The unidentified crew members ...

  28. Gay Moscow City Guide 2024 for gay travelers

    Moscow | Mосква. Moscow (Москва) is the capital (both political and financial) of the Russian Federation and a major city of global importance. The huge city is packed with majestic buildings that document this country's historical past and present and is home to over 13 million people. Visitor highlights include Red Square, The ...

  29. 17 Best Moscow Tours 2024

    7 - City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise. If your time in Moscow is limited, this hop-on, hop-off bus tour is ideal - and it even features an optional cruise on the river. Choose between a 2 and 3-day ticket and see famous landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre from an open-top ...

  30. Carnival Freedom cruise ship catches fire amid bad weather conditions

    According to a release from Carnival Cruise Line, the fire broke out on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel causing a portion of it to fall onto the deck. 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays ...