The LGBTQIA+ travel market is worth more than $200 billion annually — a number expected to soar past $500 billion by the end of the decade. Recent gains in legal equalities, like the rights to marry and start families, may limit some of the demographic’s industry-famous disposable income, but LGBTQIA+ travelers still tend to travel more often and spend more than their counterparts. And that means big business for those savvy enough to cater directly to the market.
Duncan Greenfield-Turk, luxury advisor, Global Travel Collection, attributes the LGBTQIA+ penchant for luxury travel not just to personal taste but to these spaces and experiences historically offering more privacy and inclusivity. On the water he’s noticed upscale lines like Virgin Voyages cornering the ocean market, while luxury ships like those from Belmond continue to draw LGBTQIA+ cruisers to the rivers. Both brands remain supportive of the market and its specific needs — an essential quality for both comfort and safety for these travelers — and continue to reap its loyalty.
Greenfield-Turk is noticing a shift in the market, though, with LGBTQIA+ clients increasingly seeking out European river cruises to romantic destinations like the wine regions of Portugal, Spain and France. While this may just represent a trend in couples’ cruising preferences in general, it’s also likely tied to the growing acceptance of LGBTQIA+ relationships among the public at large, particularly in these destinations, making romantic experiences more comfortable and accessible than ever for alternative couples.

@HOLLYWOODBRUISERS
While “gay cruises” have existed for decades on large ships, there’s an emerging market of brands exclusively devoted to — and run by — the LGBTQIA+ community. Industry leader VACAYA excels at full-ship buyouts that offer the ultimate in tailored programming, privacy and acceptance, and actively seeks to include the entire LGBTQIA+ community in its outreach and experiences.
And this isn’t just a Caribbean party brand. Patrick Gunn, co-founder, VACAYA, also notices LGBTQIA+ cruisers aren’t just looking for stereotypically queer-friendly enclaves like Mykonos or Puerto Vallarta anymore, but seek inclusive ways to travel to top destinations worldwide. Answering the call, VACAYA recently sailed the first full-ship LGBTQIA+ expedition to Antarctica, and it was first to both circumnavigate Iceland and visit the African islands of Seychelles. While the LGBTQIA+ party cruise may not be going away, it’s no longer the sole option for a market with interests and goals as diverse as any other.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDestinations
Jul 20, 20267 Reasons to Put Belize on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Belize with us.
Sponsored Content
IHG Business Edge: A Smarter Way for Small- and Mid-Sized Businesses to Travel
IHG Business Edge is a complimentary travel program designed to help small- and mid-sized businesses manage travel more efficiently while saving on hotel stays. Members enjoy access to guaranteed discounts, loyalty benefits, and partner offers across IHG Hotels & Resorts’ global portfolio of 7,000-plus hotels in more than 100 countries.
Daily
Jul 20, 2026London’s The Lanesborough Unveils New Experiences, Additions
The height of London’s social season is underway, and one of London’s most luxurious hotels celebrates with a collection of new experiences. From a collaboration with Cowdray Park Polo Club to a Laurent-Perrier partnership to welcome Wimbledon to the debut of Garden Room Terrace, The Lanesborough has an exciting summer lined up.
Global City Guidebook 2026
Jul 19, 2026Fasano Al Mare Beach Club Launches Fasano Yachts
Brazilian hospitality brand Fasano officially enters the world of yachts with the launch of Fasano Yachts, an exclusive fleet of yachts debuting this summer for guests of Fasano Al Mare Hotel & Beach Club in Sardinia, Italy.
Sponsored Content
Elevate Your Journey with TAP Air Portugal’s New Economy Prime
Exciting news ahead for TAP Air Portugal, as Portugal’s flag carrier prepares for the launch of its brand-new Economy Prime cabin, offering customers more space, additional privacy and a superior travel experience. Flights boasting the new cabin take off June 1; booking for Economy Prime is now available across all TAP channels and travel agents.
Global City Guidebook 2026
Jul 18, 2026“MICHELIN Guide” Expands to Northeast Florida
Florida’s Historic Coast makes history with four restaurants earning recognition in the MICHELIN Florida Guide 2026, putting Northeast Florida on the MICHELIN map for the first time ever.
Go from Lake to Lake in Lake Como, St. Moritz
Daily
Jul 17, 2026Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
Global City Guidebook 2026
Jul 16, 2026Global City Guidebook: Amsterdam
The Netherlands’ capital city is known not only for its extensive network of canals (which are a UNESCO World Heritage site) and art and cultural museums and sites, but it is regarded also as the commercial center of the country and one of the top financial hubs in Europe. No matter the time of year, the city comes alive with festivities and nightlife as well as buzzing ports and waterways.
ShareThis