Your First Gay Cruise: What to Expect, What to Pack, and How to Make the Most of It
There’s nothing quite like a gay cruise. Whether you’re heading to the Greek Isles with La Demence, sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon with Atlantis, or joining another epic voyage, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience that blends travel, community, and celebration all in one floating gay city.
But if you’ve never been on a gay cruise before, it can feel overwhelming. What do you pack? What happens on board? How do you pace yourself when there’s a party every night?
As someone who’s been there, here’s your go-to guide to help you get ready, feel confident, and make the most of your adventure at sea.
🧳 What to Pack: Essentials, Extras, and Smart Add-Ons
You’re not just packing for a vacation—you’re packing for a week of pool parties, port adventures, and amazing night parties. Here’s a quick list with some links to helpful items, including some hand-picked favorites from my shop and suggestions from Amazon.
For a more comprehensive checklist that you can download and use when you're packing, then keep reading until the end!
But first of all, if you're not an Amazon Prime member yet, I suggest you get yourself at least the 30-day free trial so your items can get to you ASAP. Because if you need to return it (which returns are also free) you will have time to get another shipment in before it's too late! Start your prime membership by clicking HERE!
✔️ Daytime Must-Haves
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Swim Trunks (and backups)
Bring 2–3 pairs. You’ll rotate between pool time, excursions, and day parties.
→ Gay Almanac Flash Reflective Party Bottom
→ Sexy Rainbow Swim Briefs
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Anti-Theft Bag
Crucial for shore days. Our Vers Murse anti-theft phone bag has lockable zippers and hidden pockets to keep your phone and wallet safe while you explore.
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Sun Protection
Bring reef-safe, water-resistant SPF. You’ll be in the sun a lot.
✔️ Evening & Theme Party Gear
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Theme Night Outfits
Most cruises post the party themes ahead of time. Some people take the costumes super seriously while others are very casual about it. My recommendation is to pick one or two party themes that speak to you and go all out on those. Then just find something that loosely matches the theme for the other parties. That way you're not breaking the bank buying costumes for everything!
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Folding Fan (trust me)
Great for warm dancefloors and quick cool-downs. You won't want go to a cruise party without it.
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Lightweight Headwear or Crowns
A subtle crown or headpiece is a perfect way to add just a little extra touch to your outfits.
✔️ Grooming & Self-Care
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Travel-Size Toiletries
Pack what you need and then a little extra—especially deodorant, facial cleanser, and body wipes. You'll want to be fresh whenever you get out to the dance floor or start exploring a new city.
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Noise-filtering Earbuds
Great for naps and downtime, but also for the dance floor! You don't want to lose your hearing when you're young! Protect those ear drums with a pair of earbuds at every party.
🎉 How to Make the Most of Your Cruise
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Get social
Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, introduce yourself. People are generally friendly, and the cruise environment is one of the most welcoming around.
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Pace yourself
You don’t need to be at every party, every night. There’s no prize for exhaustion.
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Plan for port days
Comfortable shoes, light clothes, and a sense of adventure go a long way. Many cruisers say the port experiences are their favorite part of the trip.
🧠 Pro Tips from a Cruise Veteran
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Themed outfits help you connect
Dressing for the themes makes you feel more involved and is a great conversation starter.
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Pack a carry-on with essentials for day one
Sometimes checked luggage takes a few hours to arrive. Keep your swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen handy so you can jump right into the fun.
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Rest when you need to
It’s okay to skip a party. Some of your favorite memories will come from quiet moments with new friends or a beautiful view from the deck.
💬 Final Thoughts
Going on a gay cruise for the first time is exciting—and maybe a little intimidating—but you’ll be surrounded by community, joy, and nonstop energy. If you go in prepared, open-minded, and hydrated, you’re setting yourself up for an unforgettable experience.
🎥 Want more tips? Check out my YouTube Gay Cruise Playlist for videos on what to pack, what to expect, and behind-the-scenes insights.
And if you want a downloadable Gay Cruise Packing Checklist, then subscribe to our email list here: