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LGBTQ+ Meet-Up

LGBTQ+ Meet-up Come as you are (or who you’re becoming) to this laid-back, judgment-free gathering where LGBTQ+ Sailors and their allies can connect, swap stories, and feel right at home.

LGBTQ+ Meet-Up on Virgin Voyages cruise ships
LGBTQ+ Meet-Up on Virgin Voyages cruise ships © Photo by Virgin Voyages

Come as you are and connect with fellow LGBTQ+ Sailors and allies during Virgin Voyages’ dedicated LGBTQ+ Meet-Ups. These relaxed gatherings provide an easy way to meet new people, share travel stories, and spend time with others on board in a welcoming setting.

Cost: Free, included in voyage fare

Event Details

LGBTQ+ Meet-Ups are open to LGBTQ+ Sailors and allies. The event is designed to be relaxed and low pressure, so sailors can stop by, chat, and meet others without needing to take part in anything formal.

When & Where

The first meet-up usually appears on day 2 of the voyage. After that, more gatherings may be scheduled every few days at the same time, depending on the sailing. They are typically held around 5:30 PM at The Dock or The Dock House, although the location can change because of weather, ship plans, or the wider entertainment schedule.

Some LGBTQ+ Meet-Ups are hosted by members of The Happenings Cast, who may help with introductions and create an easy starting point for conversation. Others are unhosted and run more like an informal social gathering.

Scarlet Lady Cast 8 Celebrate Pride
Scarlet Lady Cast 8 Celebrate Pride© Photo by Scarlet Lady Happenings Cast

What to Expect

  • A relaxed social space for LGBTQ+ Sailors and allies
  • A chance to meet people early in the voyage
  • Casual conversations about travel, ports, dining, and onboard plans
  • A useful gathering for solo sailors who want to make connections
  • Some hosted sessions with The Happenings Cast
  • Some unhosted sessions led by sailors themselves

How and When to Attend

Details for LGBTQ+ Meet-Ups will appear in the Virgin Voyages app closer to sailing or once sailors have boarded. Because times and locations can vary, it is best to check the onboard schedule regularly during the voyage.

If you do not see the event listed before sailing, check again after boarding. The onboard schedule often updates as the voyage gets closer and once sailors are on the ship.

These events are free to attend and do not require booking. Simply arrive at the listed time and location. If the event is at The Dock or The Dock House, arriving a little early can be useful because the venue can get busy around early evening.

For more tips on how Virgin Voyages handles scheduled and first come first served activities, see our Booking Events & First Come First Serve Events guide.

Bar on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship with backlit liquor shelves and wooden stools
The Dock House Bar© Photo by Virgin Voyages

Overview

The LGBTQ+ Meet-Up is a simple but useful addition to the Virgin Voyages schedule. It gives LGBTQ+ sailors and allies a regular space to connect, meet new people, and feel part of the onboard community.

For solo sailors, it can also be a helpful way to meet others for dinner, shows, or port plans. You can also read our Sailing Solo guide for more advice on making the most of a solo Virgin Voyages cruise.

About the author

Co-Founder and Director. David has a background in web design and development and writes travel content, vacation guides and tips about Virgin Voyages.


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