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The Top 10 River Cruise Lines in 2021

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite river cruise lines.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The past year put the entire travel industry through the wringer, perhaps no segment more so than cruising. Though the pandemic forced ships around the world to remain in port , readers nevertheless looked back fondly on their times at sea while ranking the world's top 10 river cruise lines for Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in five categories, including river cruising.

Though many European countries have been off-limits for travelers, memories of recent trips to one of the world's iconic river cruising destinations helped inform voters' choices this year. Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. 2 spot with an eye-popping score above 96. The iconic river ships of No. 3 Viking Cruises also fared well this year, with readers giving the stalwart high marks, moving it up three places. Viking has river ships across Europe, of course, but also sails the Mekong and the Nile. In 2022, the company plans to launch trips on the Mississippi.

Other high-ranking lines won praise for their journeys outside the traditional rivers of Europe. No. 4 Aqua Expeditions, for example, sails to such destinations as Indonesia, Peru, and Vietnam. (The company's newest ship, the Aqua Nera, debuted this summer on the Amazon.) And No. 5 American Queen Steamboat Company, which didn't make T+L's top 10 last year, keeps its focus strictly domestic, with trips on the Columbia, the Mississippi, the Ohio, and other U.S. waterways.

But this year's highest-ranked line goes just about everywhere. No. 1 Uniworld Boutique River Cruises earned one of the highest scores of any cruise line — river or ocean — this year, impressing readers with flawless service, imaginative itineraries, top-flight design, and wonderful food. "We were treated like royalty," gushed one traveler who sailed on the Maria Theresa. "Our experience was an 11 out of 10." Can't do much better than that.

Find the rest of the list — and what other qualities set Uniworld apart — below.

1. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

This global operator of 19 ships sails rivers across Europe, plus waterways in Cambodia, Egypt, India, Peru, and Vietnam. Among the newest in the fleet are the Bon Voyage, based in France, and the La Venezia, recently relaunched in Italy. And while readers certainly raved about the line's ships, they saved their highest praise for the ask-and-you-shall-receive mentality of the Uniworld crews. "My experience exceeded all expectations," said one traveler, who toured Europe on the Antoinette . "Staff consistently went above and beyond to ensure a pampered vacation. When one of our party asked if there was a guitar on board so we could sing in the parlor one evening, a staffer said he would arrange it — and proceeded to purchase a guitar at our stop the next day!" Other respondents made note of Uniworld's overall attention to detail, with excursions, meals, entertainment, and logistics expertly handled in just the right way. "It was among our most favorite vacations ever — everything was perfect," said one voter, who traveled on the Beatrice . "The best experience I have ever had on any ship," said another. A third reader summed it up like this: "This was my first experience with Uniworld, and I cried when I had to leave. Everything wowed me."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.79 More information: uniworld.com

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.30 More information: tauck.com

3. Viking Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.65 More information: vikingcruises.com

4. Aqua Expeditions

Score: 92.69 More information: aquaexpeditions.com

5. American Queen Steamboat Company

Score: 92.68 More information: americanqueensteamboatcompany.com

Score: 92.07 More information: belmond.com

7. Avalon Waterways

Score: 91.29 More information: avalonwaterways.com

8. Scenic Cruises

Score: 91.08 More information: scenicusa.com

9. AmaWaterways

Score: 90.64 More information: amawaterways.com

10. Crystal Cruises

Score: 88.23 More information: crystalcruises.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

Top 7 Global River Cruises

September 8, 2014

While European river cruising is red hot in popularity now, don’t overlook other river cruising possibilities around the world. Asia, Africa, South America, and North America all offer excellent river cruises, ranging from the exotic -- the Amazon, the Mekong, the Nile and more -- to U.S. rivers such as the Mississippi and the Columbia.

Here are the top 7 non-European river trips available today :

1.  The Amazon

The world’s largest river by volume, the Amazon stretches 4,000 miles from Peru east to Brazil’s Atlantic coast. The lower Amazon -- the segment that runs from the old frontier city of Manaus, in the heart of Brazil, to the Atlantic Ocean -- is wide and deep enough to attract some ocean-going, medium-sized traditional cruise ships.  

West of Manaus, the upper Amazon is more remote, adventurous, and suited to smaller, expedition-style vessels. River boats on the upper Amazon typically make frequent stops for passengers to board small skiffs or canoes and venture into villages or into the depths of the jungle, sometimes via little creeks that cut right through the dense vegetation.

Rainforest Hikes

Experienced guides, often native to the region, lead rainforest hikes in search of wildlife – howler monkeys, macaws, elusive sloths – and point out medicinal plants used by indigenous tribesmen. (You might even get to taste a coconut grub, or fish for piranha that the ship’s cook will grill for lunch). While cruising down the river, watch for pink dolphins, tropical birds, and monkeys skittering through the trees near the river banks.

Peru-based Amazon cruises typically start and end in Lima and are often combined with visits to Machu Picchu. Manaus-based Amazon cruises may include extensions to Iguassu Falls. The Rio Negro, a tributary that flows into the Amazon near Manaus, is another option -- so quiet you may not see another ship for an entire week.

Don’t overlook Manaus itself, where you can tour an ornate 19th-century opera house that rivaled the finest in Italy. For the river cruise, come prepared for tropical heat and rain showers – and make sure your immunizations are up to date.

2. The Columbia River and  Snake River

If you live in North America , you don’t have to cross the sea to find prime river-cruising destinations. More than two centuries after the pioneering team of Lewis and Clark completed their expedition to the Pacific Northwest by following the Columbia and Snake rivers to the ocean, you can travel these same waterways – no canoes required.

But old-time atmosphere is still available: ship options include an authentic paddle-wheeler that seems to emerge right out of the 19th century. Seven or eight-day Columbia River Cruises typically start either in Portland, Oregon, or in Clarkston, Washington, which is on the Snake River some 350 miles to the east, along the Idaho border. But even if you start or end in Portland, your itinerary will still likely include sailing west to Astoria, Oregon, where the Columbia empties into the Pacific.

Columbia River Gorge

The highlight of any Columbia River cruise, though, starts just east of Portland: the 80-mile-long Columbia River Gorge, a rock canyon framed by mountains and waterfalls, including Oregon’s 600-foot-high Multnomah Falls. Forming the border between Oregon and Washington, the gorge lies to the south of Washington’s Mt. St. Helens, the volcano whose last explosion in 1980 scattered ash and blew out trees across the area.

Farther east, possible side-trips travel to the cowboy town of Pendleton, Oregon, home of Pendleton Woolen Mills, or offer the chance of a jet boat ride through remote Hell’s Canyon, the deepest in North America, carved by the Snake River. The entire region is also rich in Native American cultural sites.

3.  The Irrawaddy

The Irrawaddy River, which flows for 1,300 miles through exotic Myanmar (Burma) , is Myanmar’s economic lifeline and an exceptional vantage point for viewing what is currently one of the most sought-after destinations in Southeast Asia. Myanmar, until recently shunned by the international community for its notorious human-rights violations and now opened up to the world, has been described as a “Buddhist wonderland.”

And because it was a mostly closed society for so long, it hasn’t changed much – yet. Some of the nomenclature has, however: Besides “Myanmar” replacing “Burma,” you’ll start your river cruise in Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon. (Be sure to arrive early enough to explore Yangon, where ancient temples mix with British colonial architecture).

The Delta and the River

Irrawaddy River cruises -- which typically run anywhere from one week to two or even longer if they include land touring as well -- exit Yangon via the Twante Canal, which leads from the Yangon River to the Irrawaddy Delta. Depending on the length of your trip, you may spend a few days days exploring small ports in the delta before embarking on the Irrawaddy itself.

Once on the river, you can visit archeological sites rich in ancient Buddhist artifacts, and view remnants of the colonial period – including forts dating from the second Anglo-Myanmar War in the mid-19th century. If you stop in Minhla, you’ll encounter a pagoda made of solid gold bricks, just one of many Buddhist pagodas, temples and monasteries lining the river. One crucial stop is Pagan (Bagan), a World Heritage Site and home to thousands of temples and monasteries.

River Road to Mandalay

Another is Mandalay – the country’s last royal capital and the center of Buddhist culture -- celebrated by Kipling and home to an array of colorful pagodas and monasteries. Irrawaddy cruises may end in Mandalay or travel roundtrip to Yangon. Some longer itineraries begin or end in Bangkok, Thailand, while others begin in Mandalay and travel north to Yangon.

4.  The Mekong

A Mekong voyage typically starts in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam , with time to explore the city and outlying attractions such as the Cu Chi tunnels, a complex underground network built by guerrillas during the Vietnam War. Leaving Saigon, the cruises enter the back waters of the Mekong Delta, site of the world’s largest floating market at Cai Bei. You may have the chance to visit Vietnamese tribal villages before entering Cambodia.

Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat

The Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, features French colonial architecture and an opportunity to visit the grim Killing Fields and detention camps of the Khmer Rouge, which formed one of the darkest eras in Southeast Asian history. Back on the river, you’ll pass towns such as Kratie that recall the French colonial period, and also have opportunities to view river dolphins, wats, temples, monasteries and pagodas.

Cruises typically end in Siem Reap, Cambodia, gateway to Angkor Wat, the legendary and ornate 12th-century complex of stone structures that’s the world’s largest religious monument. Some cruises include extensions to Hanoi or Bangkok, or reverse the itinerary, starting at Siem Reap.

5.  The Mississippi

America’s most storied river, the Mississippi flows more than 2,300 miles through America’s heartland, bordering ten states from northern Minnesota to Louisiana, before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.

Meaning “Great River” in the Ojibwe language, the Mississippi connects cities as varied as New Orleans, Natchez, Vicksburg, Memphis, St. Louis and Minneapolis, and has served as the economic lifeline for all the communities that lie along its banks.

The river has also been celebrated in literature, theater and song (Samuel Clemens, who hailed from the river port of Hannibal, Missouri, took his pseudonym Mark Twain from his days working on a Mississippi river boat).

New Orleans to Memphis

Mississippi River cruises offer a chance to explore the mighty waterway in a relaxing environment – perhaps even on an authentic paddle-wheeler. The most popular segment is on the southern Mississippi, between New Orleans and Memphis.

Besides those two bookend cities – both known for their blues and jazz music and regional cuisines – a lower Mississippi River cruise offers opportunities to tour Civil War battlefields and antebellum plantations while gliding past riverfront towns boasting Victorian-era mansions.

Northern Mississippi River cruises typically travel from St. Louis to Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, stopping at Hannibal, Missouri, several cities in Iowa, and LaCrosse, Wisconsin, before disembarking in Minnesota. Some Mississippi cruises also take in other rivers such as the Ohio – which leads through Kentucky, Illinois and Indiana to Cincinnati – as well as the Cumberland and the Tennessee, which branch off the Ohio to the south. Itineraries generally run seven to eight days.

Check out the top attractions on a Mississippi River Cruise >>

6.  The Nile

In the 19th century, explorers such as Sir Richard Burton and John Speke risked their lives searching for the source of the 4,250-mile-long Nile, which eventually empties into the Mediterranean in Egypt . But today you can explore a section of the timeless river, the world’s longest, on comfortable multi-deck tour boats that all have open upper decks for easy viewing of the passing panorama.

Nile cruise boats start in Aswan, located just north of the Aswan Dam, a controversial project completed in the 1960s to control flooding along the Nile -- which supplies most of Egypt’s water. The cruises continue north along the Nile to Luxor, the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes and one of Egypt’s premier archaeological sites.

The ruins of the Luxor and Karnak temples are immense, leading this to be called the “world’s largest open-air museum.” Across the river lie the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, containing the tombs of many of the ancient pharaohs.

Nile Sights

Between Aswan and Luxor, the Nile is mostly rural, and its banks contain most of the fertile land in all of Egypt. On the river, feluccas – traditional Egyptian boats – float by, steered by men in long flowing robes, while village children play along the riverbanks.

Other stops include the temple towns of Edfu and Kom Ombo, which are mere warm-ups for the splendor of Luxor. Itineraries typically last four days and usually include an extension to bustling Cairo, home to the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the extraordinary Egyptian Museum of Antiquities.

7.  The Yangtze

The Yangtze River flows for nearly 4,000 miles through the heart of China, offering a relaxing way to escape China’s traffic-choked streets and urban air pollution. But you won’t miss out on China’s two major cities: your cruise itinerary will start either in Beijing, China’s capital, or Shanghai, its most vibrant city. Yangtze River cruise itineraries typically include multi-day visits to both on either end of the river voyage.

If you start in Shanghai, you can explore both old colonial-era Shanghai, along the waterfront Bund District, as well as the ultra-modern new city (using your ship as hotel and restaurant). Once on the cruise itself, the itinerary may include a stop in the ancient Chinese capital of Nanjing and another at Suzhou, known as the “Venice of the East” for its network of canals.

Three Gorges

The cruises all stop at the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydro-electric dam project. While extremely controversial during its construction because it displaced more than a million people -- as well as flooding archaeological sites and altering the landscape of the scenic Three Gorges -- it's still an engineering marvel.

The ship then sails through the Three Gorges, which, though flooded by the dam, remain a scenic wonder. Passengers disembark at Chongqing for their flight to Beijing, where sightseeing includes the 15th-century-era imperial Forbidden City, huge Tiananmen Square -- regarded as the center of the Middle Kingdom -- and a trip to see part of the Great Wall, which lies outside the city. Most itineraries total 11 to 16 days, with about nine of those on the river itself.

Photo credits:

Amazon: rat-racer, flickr; Columbia and Snake: John Christopher, Panoramio; Irrawaddy: Jice Baroudeur,  Panoramio; Mekong: Adam Jones, flickr; Mississippi: Franz Neumeier, flickr; Nile: Melanie Feuerer, flickr; Yangtze: Mulligan Stu, flickr. 

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11 Best River Cruise Itineraries to Book in 2023 and 2024

By Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best river cruises have always had a mystique to draw travelers in—even those who are new to cruising. For history buffs, they could be an excellent way to visit ancient sites or historical landmarks. For those that love the outdoors, river journeys are a way to experience the natural landscape of the dream destinations. This year, the river cruise market has been anticipating more travel, so consider booking these once-in-a-lifetime voyages as early as you can. 

Here, we’ve highlighted 11 of the most exciting river cruise itineraries to book for this year and next—from Amazonian expeditions to kid-friendly European voyages , these cruises have something for every kind of traveler.

Colombia's Magdalena River with Amawaterways

Amawaterways is now accepting reservations for its highly anticipated cruises on Colombia's Magdalena River departing from both Cartagena and Barranquilla in 2024. Both seven-day itineraries explore Colombia's rich musical and cultural history, along with a chance to experience the country's natural wonders and local cuisine. Amawaterways is the first major river cruise line to highlight Colombia’s beauty with these types of voyages. Ship amenities are plentiful, as both vessels feature staterooms with balconies, a main restaurant, a fitness center with three spa treatment rooms, and a sun deck with a relaxing whirlpool.

Family river cruises on the Danube and Rhine with Emerald

Emerald is opening up two of its Europe river itineraries to younger guests, with  kid-friendly menus and exciting onboard activities such as video games, movies, and tournaments. Children must be 10 years old or older to take part in Emerald’s kid-friendly voyages. Both itineraries have been modified and feature destinations the whole family can enjoy. The Danube Explorer includes stops in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary . While the Jewels of the Rhine explores the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland.

Mississippi River Cruises with Viking

Float down the mighty Mississippi with Viking's first U.S. voyages. Featuring five different itineraries with stops in New Orlean s, Memphis, and St. Paul, you’ll explore the French Quarter, enjoy authentic Memphis barbecue, and get an up-close look at America’s national bird, the bald eagle. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Viking is offering special fares, reduced airfare and a$25 deposit on select voyages.

Black history and culture in France with Amawaterways

During Amawaterways' Black History cruise, guests aboard the AmaKristina will sail through the South of France along the Rhone River. The journey from Arles to Lyon will include stops in Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, and Vienne. After arriving in Lyon, passengers will stay in Paris for an exclusive guided tour showcasing jazz, food, and wine, all while shining a light on Black heritage.

Amazon River voyages with Seabourn

Journeying through the Amazon's small channel of the Boca dos Botos, Seabourn's expedition team, will immerse you in the region's one-of-a-kind ecosystem. The three itineraries are broken up into regions: Flooded Forests and Blackwater Tributaries; The Frontier Amazon; and The Peruvian Amazon. Each major region exemplifies a new, unique environment that differs from the next. Take in the natural beauty of the flora and fauna as you share space with sloths, howler monkeys, and more. 

Christmas markets in Europe with Scenic

Scenic Cruises is amping up the holiday cheer with six itineraries this November and December. Each city will showcase a unique Christmas experience as you stop in Amsterdam , Munich, Paris, and Prague, just to name a few of the festive ports in store. It will be a holiday like no other as you dock at quaint riverside villages aglow in fairy lights. Walk over the cobblestones with mulled wine in hand while you browse handmade goods and enjoy festive treats and age-old traditions.

Viking's Nile River Cruises

Follow the footsteps of the ancient Egyptians with Viking's voyages down the Nile . Delve into the history of those that called Cairo home, built the Pyramids, and looked upon the great Sphinx. With stops in Luxor, Quena, and Esna before docking in Aswan—it’s a timeless voyage you won’t want to miss. As part of Viking’s anniversary sale, a $25 deposit is applicable for this booking. 

India’s Golden Triangle aboard Uniworld

Immerse yourself in India’s “Golden Triangle”—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. The 10-day itinerary features visits to the Taj Mahal, Rajbari temple complex, and Mother Teresea’s home. While en route, you’ll enjoy meals created with fresh ingredients, take part in welcome and farewell gala dinners, and have complimentary house wine, local spirits and beer, soft drinks, and tea served throughout your voyage. 

Portugal's Douro River with Scenic 

Experience the past and present of Portugal as you travel through the Douro River Valley. The river flows from Spain to the Northern Portuguese countryside, which is known for its wine production. Five different tours are being offered with stops in Lisbon , Porto, Madrid, and Salamanca. Passengers will have the chance to explore charming villages, see the Palace Duques de Bragança, kayak along the Pinhão River, and sample delicacies of the region. Plus, every stateroom aboard Scenic's ship comes with private butler service to ensure the journey is truly stress free.

Aqua Expeditions Mekong River cruise

Along with visits to bustling cities like Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City , Aqua Expeditions' Mekong River cruises also visits serene ports in the countryside. Imagine kayaking to floating villages, watching silk weavers at work, and biking to village markets. Beyond the beautiful sights in Cambodia and Vietnam, the ship, Aqua Mekong , is a marvel in itself. The vessel has 20 suites that feature full-length windows and onboard amenities include a cinema, top deck plunge pool, and sun deck with lounge chairs and cabanas. If you book a river cruise between now and 2025, you can receive 30 percent off your voyage.

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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

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.

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.

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

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

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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

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

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.

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)
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• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024