Top Gay Friendly Cruise Lines

Everyone should be able to enjoy a cruise holiday, and in order to make cruise ships a more accessible way to travel, many cruise lines go all out to provide LGBTQ holidays. Whether you're travelling as a single, on a romantic getaway or sailing with the whole family, keep reading to find out the top gay friendly cruise lines which are at the forefront of LGBT holidays.

Gay and Lesbian Singles/Couples Cruises

If you're looking to head out on a gay or lesbian singles cruise and meet like-minded people, or you're looking for an accepting environment where you and your partner can feel comfortable being yourselves on a gay couples cruise, there are several cruise lines to choose from.

Royal Caribbean

Gay Travel Approved, from the moment you step onboard any of Royal Caribbean's impressive fleet of ships you'll feel at home. Highlights include:

• Reduced single supplements for those travelling alone
• Gay marriage ceremonies at ports of call (where legally allowed) and symbolic ceremonies onboard
• LGBTQ+ Meet-Ups

Carnival Cruise Line

Another fleet of cruise ships designed for the ultimate at-sea experience, Carnival Cruise Line offers unforgettable holidays where your time exploring the ship is almost as exciting as your time spent ashore. Promoting inclusive cruising for those in the LGBTQ+ community, onboard you'll find:

• Same-sex marriages with official ceremonies at ports of call and symbolic ceremonies while at sea
• Gay and Lesbian meetups, sometimes referred to as Friends of Dorothy meetups

It isn't just during a cruise that Carnival supports LGBTQ guests and staff. From company-wide policies to prevent sexuality-based discrimination to sponsoring Seattle Pride Parade and Southampton Pride, Carnival's support of the LGBTQ+ community is clear to see.

Azamara Cruises

If you're looking for a more luxury, all-inclusive cruise experience, look no further than Azamara Cruises. Having won awards for the Best Small Ship Cruise Line for LGBTQ Passengers and Best Onboard LGBTQ Gatherings, whether you're travelling alone or in a couple, you'll be sure to meet other LGBTQ guests during your time onboard:

• Meet and Mingle cocktail parties
• Dedicated gay friendly cruises to LGBT friendly holiday destinations
• Onboard Pride parties

Gay Pride Cruises

While there are companies which charter cruise ships for gay only cruises, members of the LGBTQ+ community can also enjoy celebrating who they are at sea on a unique voyage.

Celebrity Cruises

One of the most LGBT friendly cruise lines out there, Celebrity Cruises goes above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome onboard. During a standard cruise, gay travellers will be able to benefit from LGBT Welcome Parties, Social Hour Events and even onboard gay marriages which are legally recognised.

However, it's Celebrity Cruises' Pride Party at Sea which really makes this cruise line stand out from the crowd. In the past, events have included:

• Rainbow Party sail away
• Pride silent disco
• Flag raising ceremony
• Live music

Celebrity also take their support further than just Pride holidays by sponsoring Miami Beach Gay Pride and partnering with Tie The Knot, a charity which strives to promote LGBTQ equality around the world. Plus, with their Always Included, you'll be able to enjoy tips, Wi-Fi and drinks as part of your cruise fare.

Gay Family Cruise

Gay friendly cruise holidays aren't just about singles and couples looking to get out on the ocean and have some fun; they can also be a great way for LGBT families with children to see the world.

Disney Cruise Line

With resorts around the world known for welcoming everyone, it's no surprise that Disney Cruise Line is a great option for LGBT families looking for an inclusive atmosphere for their holiday. Soak up the magic of Disney no matter where in the world you are:

• Enchanting dining venues
• Family-friendly live shows and entertainment
• Kid's and teen's clubs
• Same-sex marriages

Gay River Cruises

As well as ocean cruises, guests can also take to the iconic waterways of the world onboard gay friendly river cruises. As you meander along beautiful rivers taking in the amazing scenery, you'll also get the opportunity to visit a variety of towns and cities along the way.

Emerald Waterways

Offering all-inclusive, luxury river cruises to beautiful destinations across the heart of Europe, Emerald Waterways welcome LGBTQ guests onboard their stylish and comfortable ships with open arms:

• Gay friendly cruise destinations such as Amsterdam and Antwerp
• Itineraries which coincide with LGBTQ+ events including April's Queer Eye Festival in Prague and the International Queer and Migrant Film Festival in Amsterdam

From specific Pride and gay friendly events to cruise lines who simply welcome LGBTQ travellers onboard like they would every other guest, there are plenty of options for an inclusive voyage. Thanks to our guide to the top gay friendly cruise lines, all that's left to do is browse our fantastic cruise deals and find the perfect LGBT cruises for you. Plus, if you want to find out more which destinations to choose, be sure to read our guide to the best gay holiday destinations.