At Virgin Voyages, Pride isn’t just something we celebrate one month of the year. It’s a philosophy that’s baked into our identity. Our culture of inclusivity is quite literally who we are, and has been since our inception. During Scarlet Lady’s inaugural season in 2020, Atlantis Events chartered the ship for a special LGBTQ+ voyage, and to celebrate, Sir Richard Branson toured NYC on a Virgin Voyages Pride bus. The Virgin brand has always been at the forefront of supporting the LGBTQ+ community, creating inclusive travel experiences that promote diversity and welcome all aboard. No matter what community you identify with, here’s why a cruise is the perfect way to celebrate Pride Month.
Celebrate Pride Month with travel
Let’s be clear – no matter what month of the year it is, we should celebrate diversity and inclusion, and feel the freedom to let loose in a judgment-free way. June is Pride Month, which means taking a few weeks to be extra mindful about this philosophy. It also means getting creative with how we celebrate ourselves and those around us in the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual/aromantic) community. For example, one of the ways we’re celebrating is with curated specialty cocktails and mocktails inspired by the colors of the pride flag, available fleetwide throughout the month of June.
Call us biased, but at Virgin Voyages, we think travel is the best way to ring in Pride Month. What better way to celebrate diversity and inclusivity than by meeting new people and exploring LGBTQ+ friendly cultures at our ports around the world? We take “pride” in fostering a sense of community onboard our cruise ships where everyone feels comfortable being themselves.
A Welcoming LGBTQ cruise line
We pride ourselves on being friendly not just to the LGBTQ+ community, but to all communities regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. From Pride events like drag cabaret shows and drag bingo to midday dancing on the pool deck and private karaoke rooms where you can sing your favorite songs without judgment – it’s all part of our “exclusivity meets inclusivity” mindset. That extends not just to our Sailors, but our Crew as well. Both onboard, behind-the-scenes, and in our on-shore offices, we create a welcoming environment where all feel comfortable and celebrated.
An inclusive travel experience curated for you
Before anything else, we’re all about creating a sense of community – not just between Sailors, but between Sailors and Crew, too. To us, this is what the LGBTQ+ spirit is all about. An environment where you can be yourself without fear of judgment or stigma, and meet other like minded people looking to share in an epic, open-minded vacation experience.
“Inclusive” has many meanings for us. Most importantly, it means giving our Sailors the space – and freedom from rules or restrictions, like dress codes – to be themselves. It also represents the value included in every cruise fare. That means award-winning entertainment (some of which is deliciously NSFW), 20+ eateries featuring a diverse range of cuisine, group fitness options, and events and activities geared toward the LGBTQ+ community.
Come as You Are:
Relax
It’s no secret that cruise ships are an ideal relaxation experience, but we’re adding a layer of health and wellness you just don’t get on other cruise lines. Between our running track with panoramic ocean views, group fitness classes, and a rejuvenating spa, we’re making it easy to stay on top of your wellness regimen (or start a new one!).
Explore
Exploring new destinations and cultures is one of the clear perks of cruising, but you could also easily spend your entire trip exploring our many onboard amenities and activity spaces.
Dine
We love to eat, and we know you do too. That’s why we offer over 20 complimentary onboard eateries, from romantic Italian to a Korean BBQ with a party atmosphere.
Hustle & Grind
Just because you’re on vacation, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your fitness routine. Whether you’re merely staying true to your daily workout or taking the opportunity to start a new fitness regimen, we’ve got free fitness classes and a high-tech gym to make sure you meet your wellness goals.
Dance
Vacation is for letting loose and dancing like nobody’s watching. Though plenty of people will likely be watching, none of them will be judging. Our Sailors flock to The Manor nightclub for a judgment-free night of shaking, shimmying, and making lasting memories with new friends.
Celebrate
Whether you’re traveling solo, in a pair, or as a group, a Virgin Voyages cruise is the perfect way to celebrate Pride Month. We even encourage you to Add a Splash for Your Bash to take the party to the next level, including a bottomless brunch and a special dinner party with curated drinks.
Popular LGBTQ-friendly travel destinations
The best part about cruising is visiting several new destinations during the same trip, and making new friends along the way. Not only do we sail to dozens of exciting ports around the world, many of those ports are known for being LGBTQ+ friendly, meaning you won’t just feel right at home on our ship – you’ll also feel the love while exploring the shore.
Miami
Miami is world famous as a LGBTQ+ destination, from its family-friendly queer scene in South Beach to legendary gay nightclubs all over the city.
Key West
Key West is home to some of the world’s most colorful and inclusive LGBTQ+ events, like drag shows, gay and lesbian fishing trips, gay pool parties, and plenty of gay-owned restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Cozumel
One of Mexico’s most popular gay areas, Cozumel is home to an annual Pride celebration, as well as several bars, restaurants, and hotels that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community.
Ibiza
One of the nightlife capitals of Europe, Ibiza is also known for its thriving gay scene. There are plenty of gay-friendly bars to choose from on this lively island.
Santorini
The Greek Islands – especially Santorini – are known for their gay-friendly atmosphere and welcoming, inclusive vibe. Santorini is also one of the most picturesque places you could ever ask to spend a day lounging on the beach.
Experience our inclusive and award-winning cruises
Regardless of when you choose to sail, who you choose to sail with, and where you go on your journey, we remain committed to offering exceptional travel experiences for the LGBTQ+ community. From our rocking nightlife and bookable private karaoke lounges to fun pop-up activations, specialty Pride cocktails and mocktails, and innovative dining concepts designed to help you meet fellow Sailors, we strive to give you the most value at sea.
And speaking of value, you can save up to 80% on your second Sailor for summer cruises when you book now. It’s really just another way we’re leveling up your voyage and making the party too irresistible to pass up. We’ve been celebrating Pride loud and proud for years – now we want you to come celebrate with us.
