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QUEST10NS: Malcolm Neitzy

The Atlantis Cruise Director knows how to run a tight ship.

If you ever take an Atlantis Cruise , Malcolm Neitzy (above, with Kathy Griffin)  will most likely be the first team member you meet: He greets every passenger with a hug upon boarding. Once out to sea, he somehow manages to be everywhere at once - at the tea dance lipsynching to ABBA, on the loudspeaker telling you what the evening lineup is, on your cabin TV hosting their version of The Dating Game . Somehow, though, we managed to pin him down for a few seconds to answer some questions:

1. Where did you go on your last trip? Island House Key West 2. What was your favorite memory from it?  Doing a lot of nothing. 3. How many cruises have you been on? 159 4. Ginger or MaryAnn? Both, I'm a Gemini 5. Favorite all-time port of call? Stockholm 6. Favorite ship?  Celebrity Equinox 7. What is the strangest request you’ve gotten from a guest? True story, while still in port on the first day a guest asked to change his room because he didn't like the view of the parking garage. I reminded him we were still in port. He replied by asking what was he going to do for the next 3 hours? "Um, go the pool and say 'hi' to people." 8. First thing you like to do when you disembark? Sleep for three days. 9. Celebrity that may never do an Atlantis Cruise but you really wish he/she would? Anderson Cooper 10. Where will you head on your next adventure? Zurich  

Get your very own hug from Malcolm on the upcoming World's Largest Gay Gruise, January 22 through 29, 2017, by booking your passage at Atlantis Events website .

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Atlantis Gay Cruises

gay cruises

Unleash Your Inner Mermaid (or Merman) on an All-Gay Voyage!

Solo travelers.

Atlantis offers a first-of-it’s kind room share program, allowing ALL travelers to set sail on the gay seas! Mingle at social gatherings designed for solo travelers, or indulge in some well-deserved “me time” with a good book on a secluded deck

Fabulous Destinations

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of cultures, from the ancient ruins of Greece to the vibrant energy of Mykonos. Imagine yourself strolling along sugar-white beaches in the Bahamas or exploring the bustling art scene of Miami.

Incredible Parties

Themed dance parties under the stars? Check! Hilarious drag brunches complete with singalongs? Absolutely! Get ready for unforgettable experiences designed to make you smile.

An Incredible All-Gay Experience: Unwind, Explore, and Celebrate with Pride on Atlantis Cruises

Something for everyone on board Atlantis all gay cruises

From sizzling poolside soirees to serene beach getaways, Atlantis all-gay cruises offer the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.

Feeling anxious and have questions? We’ve got answers!

Do i need a great body.

Atlantis is all about being yourself and feeling great about who you are. Whatever shape you’re in, you’re going to feel right at home on Atlantis. We promise.

Are the cruise lines friendly to the LGBTQ community?

Absolutely. Atlantis works very closely with the cruise and resort companies to ensure that their staff members welcome Atlantis guests just as they do everyone else. Actually, most staff members request to work Atlantis weeks because the group is so much fun. You can rest easy.

Is there a minimum age to attend an Atlantis event?

At this time, the minimum age for our guests is 18. Guests between 18 and 21 must travel with a companion over the age of 25, staying in the same stateroom.

Are women welcome to attend?

Absolutely. Women have traveled on every Atlantis vacation ever produced. They typically represent between 5 and 10% of guests, but Atlantis is working to make that number grow. Most of the female guests are couples.

July 17-24, 2024

See it all next summer on the most exotically thrilling all-gay cruise that Atlantis has ever offered! Sail from magical Istanbul to vibrant Athens on the newly re-imagined Oceania Riviera as we visit the Pyramids of Egypt, explore the melting pot of Cyprus, the island playground of Mykonos and the historical majesty of Crete. In seven magical nights you’ll discover new worlds while surrounded by great friends with spectacular cuisine and Oceania’s legendary service. All with more included than ever before!

Ready to Book?

Click the button below to experience everything that an incredible Atlantis vacation has to offer.

Everything You Want to Know About Going on an Atlantis Gay Cruise

Going on an Atlantis Cruise is one of the most enjoyable vacations you can take. The options are limitless ranging from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean or even the South Pacific. The entire ship is full of LGBT guests and all staff have been extensively trained to provide you with a welcoming and gay-friendly experience. It’s a very open environment and one where you can relax and be yourself. The environment is friendly with a great social atmosphere and there are great parties and entertainment throughout the trip.

About Atlantis Gay Cruises

Atlantis Cruises was founded in 1991 and is the most popular and well-known gay cruise company in the world. They offer large, full-ship gay cruises where all the guests onboard are LGBT and they charter top-of-the-line cruise ships from well-known companies like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises or Norwegian Cruise Lines. The number of guests on an Atlantis cruise typically ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 depending on the ship and route. Atlantis offers 4 to 5 cruises a year in North America and Europe as well as occasional cruises in Asia and Australia/South Pacific.

Why Take an Atlantis Gay Cruise?

• Easy to meet new people – one great aspect of taking a gay cruise is that most of the guests are friendly and open to meeting new people. On a straight cruise, guests come with friends or family and already have a social group established. On a gay cruise, there are many activities that help connect guests and give you a chance to others.
• Travel alone – Atlantis cruises offers a cabin match program where they will assign you a roommate, so you don’t have to pay for the full price of a two-person cabin if you’re traveling alone.
• Awesome parties – If you book a cruise with Atlantis, you’ll be in for a treat with awesome and over-the-top parties. The events are usually themed, often outdoors and guests are encouraged to dress up.
• Great entertainment – most of the big gay cruise lines like Atlantis bring on big headliners or “gaylebrity” performers. Into drag queen bingo? How about performances from some of the top gay celebrity comedians, entertainers and famous drag queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race?
• Be yourself – probably one of the most attractive parts about a gay cruise is the comfort zone. The entire ship is full of LGBT guests and all staff have been extensively trained to provide you with a welcoming and gay-friendly experience. It’s a very open environment and one where you can complete and be yourself.

Is a Gay Cruise Right for You?

First, you need to decide whether taking a cruise, in general, is something you want to do. Not everyone likes cruising due to the nature of the experience, but many do. Second, if taking a cruise definitely interests you, next you’ll need to decide if you prefer a gay cruise or a mainstream (e.g. straight) cruise. Here are a few things to consider.

• Your cabin, meals and entertainment are included in the price
• The ship will be almost exclusively LGBT guests
• Cruises can be crowed and there isn’t a lot of privacy
• You can visit many new destinations in one trip, but you only have a short time at each port to explore
• Gay cruises can be a bit more expensive than mainstream cruises due to the elaborate parties and unique entertainment onboard

What to Expect from an Atlantis Cruise?

Determining which gay cruise or trip to take is completely subjective. People have different preferences, budgets or destinations in mind when it comes to booking a trip. Atlantis is popular for a reason but it’s not for everyone. However, they definitely do a great job in providing an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. Below are a few things to expect if you take an Atlantis gay cruise.

• Party focus – Atlantis cruises tend to be very party-focused and many guests go on these cruises just for the party atmosphere. Some people might not even get off the ship at the ports. The music tends to be electronic, circuit party style and not necessarily pop or top 40.
• Price – Atlantis cruises generally start out at about $900 per person for trips departing from Los Angeles or Miami. Cruises in Europe, Asia or the South Pacific might start at $1,500 to $2,000 per person. You’ll also need to add the price of flights or transportation into your budget so the location of the departing and arrival port should be part of your planning process.
• Size – Atlantis cruises are all large groups and full ship takeovers. If you’re someone who doesn’t like crowds, then you may want to avoid an Atlantis cruise and opt for a more intimate experience on a small ship.
• What’s included – the price of an Atlantis cruise includes the cabin, meals, parties and onboard entertainment. These items are typically not included in the price: pre and post hotel stay, land tours and excursions, specialty drinks/alcohol and airport transfers.
• The crowd – Atlantis cruises are typically about 99% gay men. Their main client market comes from the US, but people from all over the world go on their cruises. The average age range is usually mid 30’s and 40’s, but you’ll see guests of every age onboard ranging from 18 to 80.

Reviews from Past Travelers

Our atlantis cruise review & videos.

We took an Atlantis gay cruise back in 2010 and had a great time. We’ve been on gay cruises from a few other major companies including Le Demence and Open Sea by Axel. Atlantis definitely offers the most diverse entertainment and they have great parties. We took the Mexican Riviera cruise which departs from Los Angeles and visits various coastal cities in Mexico, including the gay-favorite Puerto Vallarta.

If the idea of a cruise, in general, doesn’t sound like your type of vacation, then an Atlantis cruise probably isn’t for you. Some longtime Atlantis guests have even become frustrated with Atlantis' complacency in the market, having been the only large-scale, gay cruise provider. But that has now changed and for that reason alone, VACAYA was founded in 2018 and has now become their biggest competitor. Atlantis also really focuses on the parties, so if that's not your scene then you may want to consider another gay cruise provider . However, if cruising is something you enjoy or think you might enjoy, then we’d definitely recommend you try an Atlantis gay cruise. It’s an unforgettable experience but you need to go in with the right mindset.

Check out these additional reviews and videos created by guests on a few Atlantis gay cruises.

• What is a gay Atlantis cruise really like?
• On Board Gay Cruise, Oasis of the Seas with Atlantis
• Atlantis Oasis 2019 Mediterranean Gay Cruise
• What to Expect on an Atlantis Gay Cruise

Image credits: Atlantis Events

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The Aftermath of the Gay Cruise Controversy

Atlantis Events, which produces LGBTQ cruises and vacations, received searing criticism for hosting the largest pandemic-era cruise event for its sold-out 30th-anniversary voyage — even as omicron spread like wildfire across the country. It earned the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Oasis of the Sea, the name “Omicron of the Seas” on social media.

Royal Caribbean confirmed the death of the passenger aboard the Atlantis cruise, first tweeted by Chris Wiggins, a gay freelance journalist. Wiggins tweeted reports of multiple “code alpha” emergency calls aboard the ship during the cruise, sources told him.

“We are saddened by the death of one of our guests aboard Oasis of the Seas. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family. We are fully cooperating with all parties involved in this tragic situation,” wrote Miraya Vargas, a member of Royal Caribbean’s corporate communications team, in an email to Gay City News.

Cruise Law News reported at least five deaths in the past decade aboard Atlantis cruises, not including this month’s death. Among the fatalities, a technical crew member went overboard a year ago, and in 2018, reality star Joel Taylor died of a suspected overdose.

Both ships were code yellow on the CDC’s COVID-19 list for cruise ships . The Oasis of the Sea and the Millennium both met the threshold for CDC investigations for reported COVID-19 cases on the ships for weeks prior to sailing in this month, yet were allowed to continue to sail.

Longtime Atlantis cruiser Ron Davis, who was aboard the ship and was quoted in a New York Times article that questioned whether a gay cruise could keep 4,700 passengers safe, told Gay City News the captain announced that only five cases out of the more than 4,000 passengers were reported aboard the cruise at the end of the trip. VACAYA reported 27 cases out of nearly 2,000 guests and, in a statement on January 27, fired back at the New York Times article.

VACAYA co-founders Randle Roper, CEO, and Patrick Gunn, CMO, called the low transmission rates proof that following COVID-19 health and safety protocols work: masking, social distancing, testing, vaccination, and reduced capacity. They declared LGBTQ travel companies and cruises can keep travelers relatively safe at sea.

The criticism of the Times was just as sharp as that of Atlantis setting sail with thousands of gay men during the omicron surge. Gunn said the community was described in “stereotypical ways” and said it amounted to “unacceptable prejudice.”

“I hate the presumption that people, when they hear gay cruise, they assume it’s just this big floating bathhouse,” Davis said, noting staff talked about a swinger cruise, Bliss Cruise, that sailed in November 2021 but did not garner the same media attention. “I hate that stigma so much.”

Images captured aboard the Atlantis ship of hunky, unmasked men in chaps, tightly packed together in what looked like a pre-COVID-19-like scene on the ship’s outdoor Aqua Theater, were pretty accurate, Davis said. The photos quickly went viral on social media.

With Atlantis and Royal Caribbean’s COVID-19 safety protocols, which included pre-boarding testing and masking in place, Davis said he felt safer aboard the ship than in an airplane or bar. Those who tested positive pre-boarding for both Atlantis and VACAYA’s cruises were not allowed to board, Davis and VACAYA’s founders said.

In addition to the safety protocols , VACAYA and Celebrity worked to together to meet guests’ comfort levels in an effort to keep COVID-19 transmission rates low. Guests had the option to watch live shows in the theater simultaneously on a big screen on the top deck of the ship.

The CDC loosened restrictions on cruise lines on January 15. The revised guidelines came 18 days after Dr. Anthony Fauci issued a strict travel advisory telling all travelers to avoid cruises in the face of the highly infectious omicron variant.

Many travelers reconsidered their cruise vacations, but Atlantis only had 35 cancellations out of 2,700 rooms since January 1, Rich Campbell, chief executive officer of the gay travel company, told the Times.

Reduced COVID-19 transmission rates on their cruise gave VACAYA the courage to sail forward this year, unlike some LGBTQ travel and cruise companies that canceled some trips or only have cruises sailing during the second half of 2022.

Royal Caribbean canceled some cruises out of caution due to COVID-19. Lesbian travel company Olivia scheduled cruises for the second half of 2022. Smaller cruises, like Viking, are going to require booster shots to board starting March 1.

“All of our trips are moving forward,” Gunn said stating the company’s leadership is “quite bullish” on the issue. They believe they’ve answered the question that they can “travel guests safely.”

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• Travel Guides
• Published March, 2021
• Home » Blog » My Atlantis Gay Cruise

My Atlantis Gay Cruise Trip – What It Was Like

The Atlantis Gay Cruise Experience, First-Hand

While most of us have seen an Atlantis gay cruise via social media or advertisements, you’re probably still wondering…what are these Atlantis gay cruises really like?

Johnathan N. from New York shares his personal experience joining an Atlantis cruise, telling it like it is and offering useful tips for travelers interested in booking!

What Did You Like Best About the Atlantis Cruise?

Total inclusivity on a massive scale was definitely the best part of joining an Atlantis Cruise. I’ve done some other gay vacations, but a huge gay cruise like this is pretty unique.

Other trips for international gay pride events, ski weeks, and events like Gay Days are great, but the Atlantis Gay Cruise just felt grander. Plus, everything was catered to the gay community.

How Were the Atlantis Gay Cruise Theme Parties?

I thought the Atlantis theme parties were awesome. But I wish I had a little more time to plan out the costumes. I think Atlantis gave us a 2-week notice of the theme, but even so, it was a lot of fun. I had a blast.

Some of the commonly hosted themes include the Glow Party, White Party Dog Tag Tea Dance, and the Disco Tea Dance. So, at a minimum, you can start prepping the gay party accessories that you can wear to these.

wolfyy’s Travel Shop → Everything from underwear to luggage .

Any Recommendations for Which Rooms to Book?

Since there’s so much to do on the ship, you honestly don’t spend much time in your room. So, I wouldn’t stress out about which specific room you book.

If you’ve got the cash for a veranda and totally need that ocean view, then go for it. But in my opinion, an interior room is completely fine if you’re on a budget. Plus, if you book a budget room, you’ll have more money for the expensive booze!

The smaller interior rooms usually start around $1200 USD for two people, plus fees. When you have more than 2 guests sharing a room, there’s an additional fee. 

Oceanview and balcony rooms for two people can run anywhere from $1200 to $2400. And then when it comes to suites, prices can easily exceed $5000.

Is the Atmosphere Super Sexually Charged?

The sexual vibe depends on where you hang out on the ship. Without a doubt, there are areas where things are very sexy. On the dick deck at 10 PM, yes…you will get groped… and then some.

The rest of the boat is a bit more relaxed. It can sometimes be “cruisy” but it’s definitely not all sex, sex, sex. Lots of first-timers expect Atlantis gay cruises to be a constant sex party, but it’s not exactly like that.

The Atlantis cruise I went on offered singles events. These can really help solo travelers or anyone who’s shy get out of their shell. I personally can’t fully credit the Atlantis Cruise event for meeting my newest travel buddy at the time. (We met the night before at a hotel rooftop).

But, we quickly found ourselves in an “it’s complicated” situation and ended up spending 95% of our time on the ship together.

What Should Travelers Bring on an Atlantis Gay Cruise?

Most importantly, you’ve got to bring some sexy swimwear attire. Check out my extensive list of the best gay swimwear brands . Get ideas from bikini thongs to printed trunks, plus everything in between.

People really get into decorating their room doors, too. While I didn’t on my first cruise I will do it on my next one. Most people pack mini dry erase boards to hang on their door along with photos so everyone can get a sneak peek of who’s in the cabin.

I’ve even seen some groups stick a small ticket box to their door along with some little colorful sticky notes so people can leave secret messages. It’s pretty cute.

I would really encourage getting some costumes for the themed parties. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on them, but you will feel a little out of place if you don’t participate.

At the very least, throw on a harness , a sexy jockstrap , and some shorts you wouldn’t mind losing! I definitely recommend getting some good circuit party gear for the trip.

Oh, and like any cruise, don’t forget your sunscreen , especially since it’s so expensive on the ship.

Related → wolfyy’s Gay Men’s Harness Guide

Did You Witness a “Lack of Diversity” Issue on the Cruise?

This was not the case in my experience. However, I did go on an international cruise, not a domestic one. Perhaps those could be different. There were people from every continent on mine, and it was a great time.

Can Atlantis Gay Cruises Be Overwhelming for First-Timers?

Real talk—I had a panic attack as we landed in Barcelona . I was traveling alone which I have done many times before. But for some reason, the idea of getting on a 5000+ person gay cruise hit me like a brick wall. Later that night, my anxiety started to go away, and getting on the ship the following day was fine.

I think it’s important to know that every Atlantis gay cruise has so many programmed events happening, that it’s truly impossible to do everything. It’s kind of by design.

The entire experience is sort of a “choose your own adventure” and that’s really what makes it so unique.

Want to go to a circuit party ? Great. Feeling horny and need a little help? Head to the dick deck. Feel like you overdid it the night before and need a more mellow night? Go to one of the many gay comedy, musical, piano bar, or drag shows happening on the ship.

Anything You Didn’t Like About the Cruise?

Honestly, the amount of money I spent on booze. It adds up. Ha!

Any Other Tips?

Some people don’t leave the ship when docked at the ports. It seems most people do on the international cruises, but it sounds like the gay cruises out of Miami and San Diego are pretty much constant circuit parties .

Atlantis gay cruises can get quite expensive, so there generally wasn’t a huge number of younger people. Unless it was a “daddy” situation I would say 20 somethings made up less than 10% of the attendees.

Your Gay Cruise Alternatives

Gay guys are booking Atlantis cruises like crazy, especially now that we’re out of the woods regarding the pandemic. Check out some of the other scheduled Atlantis Cruises you can join.

If you’re thinking about browsing some tamer or not-so-gay cruises, there are plenty of fun alternatives.

There are several bear weeks that take place on huge cruises. These are definitely worth a look, including the Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady .

Cruise Critic  compiles a huge range of the best international cruises. Definitely check your booking options here as well.

Looking for other gay vacation options? Check out these epic gay sailing trips in the Mediterranean!

Explore the world with inspiration from wolfyy’s collection of   gay travel guides .

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Death Confirmed Onboard Atlantis Events'  Oasis of the Seas Gay Cruise

The much-criticized trip is the company's 30th-year celebration.

A death has been confirmed aboard Atlantis Events' 30th Anniversary Cruise on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas.

The Advocate has confirmed the death with Atlantis Events. While a representative said the death was "nothing out of the ordinary," they referred The Advocate to Royal Caribbean for comment on cause of death.

Last week, Atlantis Events set sail with a reported 4,700 travelers on the Oasis of the Seas. The trip was in part to celebrate the company's 30th anniversary. Given the ongoing global pandemic, a much-discussed New York Times article questioned whether the ship could keep its occupants safe. Organizers vowed to implement various social distancing methods but still sold the ship at almost full capacity.

During the cruise, multiple images have circulated on social media that show few to no signs of distancing.

Thursday night, Chris Wiggins, a freelance journalist who has written for USA Today, tweeted that he had confirmed a death of "at least one person" on the ship. He wrote that the cause of death is currently unclear. He said he confirmed this information with sources onboard the ship.

\u201cBreaking: Confirmed that at least one person on the Atlantis Gay Cruise on the Oasis of the Seas, dubbed the Omicron of the Seas, has died.\n\nCause of death is unclear.\n\n(This isn\u2019t a covid-related joke)\u201d — Christopher Wiggins (@Christopher Wiggins) 1642530071

A mostly anonymous commenter wrote in response to his tweet that the death was from a "legit (non-drug related) medical issue."

This was not the first death of an Atlantis Events cruise. In January 2020 a technical crew member went overboard, and in January 2018 reality star Joel Taylor died of a suspected overdose. Cruise Law News, a blog that covers the cruise industry, reports at least five deaths in the past decade on Atlantis Events charters.

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Personal Journeys

On a Gay Cruise, Just One of the Guys

By Steven McElroy

• April 10, 2015

Two men in revealing white singlets walked into a piano bar while the cabaret singer Natalie Douglas belted away on stage, accompanied by Brian Nash , a fixture on the New York City piano bar scene. The men were hardly out of place, though — a couple of other men in white shorts and bunny ears were already there.

If I’d witnessed this in New York, at Brandy’s, say, or Don’t Tell Mama, it would have perhaps been bizarre (perhaps, because in New York you kind of never know what to expect). But we were a week into an all-gay Atlantis cruise, and costumes of varying sorts — including those that leave precious little to the imagination — were hardly oddities at this point. It was just another night, another theme party aboard the Golden Princess.

The thumpa-thumpa club scene is hardly my milieu at home, but there I stood an hour later in tight shorts, a short-sleeve dress shirt with a bow tie, and flip-flops, all of it white. I was surrounded by hundreds of people, mostly gay men, some in chef hats or sailor caps, others in dresses, sequined from head to toe, and many wearing nothing but minuscule underwear and a coating of glitter. Nearly everything in sight was monochromatic at this “White Party,” an all-night event and the last big blowout of our eight-day Los Angeles to Mexico excursion.

I hadn’t expected to fit in on this cruise. I thought the Atlantis experience might be too intense for me; I’d heard stories about the costumes and assumed that only impossibly young gay men with untraceable amounts of body fat would be on board. I figured that my partner, Brett, and I would feel awfully out of place.

This is not to suggest I never get out of the house. I certainly have gay friends and have been to plenty of gay bars (and if clichés matter, I see more musical theater than the average person). Heck, I’m even getting married to a man pretty soon.

But still, it is easy to fall into the trap of imagining young, beautiful men who have no cares, no wrinkles, no qualms about dancing in skintight pants as the real epicenter of gay-dom. This is a myth, I knew, but it sprang to mind when planning this particular voyage, which I thought would be a foray into that imagined world, one in which I have no cred.

“The age thing is the one thing that everyone gets hung up on,” said Rich Campbell, the president and chief executive of Atlantis Events , when I contacted him after returning home. “There is that great phantom misperception that it’s a giant 24-hour boat of guys who are 26 years old, that it’s all one dynamic,” he said. “You’re absolutely going to see guys in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and you’re also going to see guys in their mid-20s.”

The average age of the almost 2,000 people on my cruise, Mr. Campbell said, was around 40, and the wide range of ages and body types was indeed apparent as soon as we boarded, when I happily realized I would not have to hold my breath nonstop to keep my abs tightened for over a week.

Mr. Campbell founded Atlantis in 1991, when another company, RSVP Vacations , was already doing gay cruises. Initially, he focused on resort events, starting with a gathering of a few hundred at a Club Med in Mexico. Eventually he began chartering cruise ships, and one of the earliest Atlantis cruises made headlines when it was denied permission to stop at Grand Cayman in 1998. Two years later, another ship ran into problems with Turkish police at Kusadasi, on the Aegean coast.

Things are somewhat easier today, and as he approaches a quarter-century in the business, Mr. Campbell owns both Atlantis and RSVP, which he took over in 2007 (“wouldn’t you want to own both Coke and Pepsi?” he said).

With the two companies, he runs cruises and resort events that entertain tens of thousands of gay travelers every year. (The next Atlantis event is a resort vacation at Club Med in Cancun, April 25 to May 2.) Most travelers are gay men, though gay women are welcome and there were some (barely a dozen, though) on our cruise.

Atlantis doesn’t own ships, but has chartered with every major cruise line. Rather than simply holding several of their own events on board while embracing the regular lineup of entertainers on the ship, like some charters do, Atlantis really takes over. They even have their own cruise director, Malcolm Neitzey, who works alongside the cruise director of each ship, and is a constant, cheerful presence on board.

Atlantis hires entertainers, like Ms. Douglas, Mr. Nash and Nate Buccieri , another New York singer-songwriter popular at home, where he’s a regular presence at the keyboards at Brandy’s, the Duplex and other establishments. We also saw the vocalist William Blake and drag performers including the delightfully nasty Jackie Beat , Miss Richfield 1981 , Sherry Vine and Courtney Act , a finalist in season six of the Logo television show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” There was plenty of comedy, from the cabaret entertainer Matt Yee , to Bruce Vilanch and even Roseanne Barr , in an appearance that was kept secret for most of the cruise until the day of her blisteringly funny performance.

Another comedian, Brad Loekle , is an Atlantis regular and his “Last Laugh” show, on the final night of the cruise, has become a tradition in the last few years. He had a full house in stitches in the ship’s theater as he poked fun at specific situations he had observed during the previous week.

On this trip, Mr. Loekle had plenty to make fun of regarding the ship itself. The specific ship and voyage can make or break a cruise, and ours was not without problems. There were glitches — too much attention from the servers at the (unimpressive) breakfast buffet and not enough at some of the other food and drink areas, for example. The layout of the ship was weird, too, and more than one comedian ( Shawn Pelofsky was another funny one) joked about being unable to find their rooms. Curiously, elevators right next to each other didn’t necessarily go to the same floors, so you had to think more than a lazy vacationer should about which one to enter.

Then the Golden Princess suffered an attack of dead mussels. Apparently, the high temperature of the sea had caused a huge number of mussels to die and get sucked into the ship’s filtration system, thus rendering the air-conditioning, while not quite inoperable, insufficient.

It got hot enough that they decided to cancel our stop in Cabo San Lucas and add another “at sea” day to get to cooler water. This, after a hurricane had forced us to swap a stop in Manzanillo for one in Mazatlán. The situation was bad enough for Princess and Atlantis to split the cost of a $500 credit per person, at a cost of nearly a million dollars, to apologize for the inconvenience.

These sorts of things affect people differently, and to be honest, I sort of didn’t care (I have a high heat tolerance anyway) and I especially didn’t mind skipping a port. Despite my initial misgivings about this cruise, assimilation had come easily and I’d become so enamored of the on-board experience — the entertainers, drag shows, parties and, most importantly, the unapologetic gayness of it all — that I was perfectly happy to have more time on the ship.

That gayness doesn’t refer only to the big parties and people in drag, either, or even the opportunities for passengers to hook up for casual sex. It was the overwhelming feeling of acceptance on board, by other passengers and by staff members who seemed unfailingly friendly and unfazed by our shenanigans.

The sense of freedom was powerful: You could be old or young, slim or heavy, and could have a loud, drunken cruise, a quiet romantic one, or even a naughty one. The many people I met who had taken multiple Atlantis cruises, 10 or even 20 or more, are clearly on to something.

“I think no matter how socially acceptable being gay becomes, and thank God it’s continually getting better, there’s something about being on this magical island where everyone is like you and you can be entirely yourself and be as ridiculous as you want to be or as romantic and loving in public as you want to be,” Mr. Nash said when I caught up with him back in New York a week later. “There’s a comfort level, there’s no looking over one’s shoulder,” he said. “After the first day and a half you realize, ‘Oh, I’m not worried about anything at all.’ ”

One afternoon, a guy who looked like Ernest Hemingway was standing in the middle of a crowded, shallow pool at the rear of the ship, holding a plastic water gun. The sun was blazing and the music blaring as he sprayed water into a crowd of hundreds standing or dancing nearby. Hemingway wore a sadistic, ear-to-ear grin.

This party, the “Soaked T-Dance,” was probably the most fun event, at least for me, partly because it encapsulated much of what made the Atlantis experience unique: Not only did we all give in to that sense of gay abandon that permeated the entire voyage, but we were also releasing the inner child, as they say. As we frolicked by the pool, squirting each other with water pistols, we giggled, flirted and easily fit in — all of us. I didn’t even bother wearing a shirt at this party, which is hardly the norm for me.

As we disembarked back in Los Angeles, I heard “we need to go further with costumes next time” come out of my mouth before I even realized it. I don’t think I can handle walking in heels, but at the “Treasure Island” party I saw some scantily clad pirates and I’m thinking I might be able to rock that look.

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Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

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Atlantis paradise island opens fieldtrip from multi james beard foundation award-winning chef jj johnson.

Renowned Chef JJ Johnson, a culinary mastermind and a James Beard Foundation Award winner, joins the resort's growing portfolio of award-winning chefs, further elevating Atlantis Paradise Island as the ultimate epicurean destination in the Bahamas and the Caribbean .

PARADISE ISLAND, Bahamas , June 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlantis Paradise Island  opens FIELDTRIP , the highly acclaimed fast-casual, community-driven rice bowl shop created by James Beard Foundation Award-winning Chef JJ Johnson . Perfect for enjoying poolside, FIELDTRIP's popular, playful, and family-friendly menu includes a range of Rice Bowls, Shareable Sides, and refreshing, house-made Beverages. As the ultimate epicurean destination in the Bahamas , Atlantis Paradise Island continues to expand its roster of internationally recognized chefs with the addition of Chef JJ Johnson, who is recognized for his innovative approach to Afro-Caribbean cuisine.

Chef JJ Johnson is the culinary force behind FIELDTRIP, one of the only fast-casual restaurants ever highlighted as Esquire 's "America's Best New Restaurants (2020)." A James Beard Foundation Award Winner, Chef JJ is celebrated for his barrier-breaking cuisine inspired by the Caribbean flavors of his upbringing. In addition to being nominated by the James Beard Foundation nine times, he has been recognized by Forbes  30 Under 30, Eater ' s New Guard of Power Dining, and Nation ' s Restaurant News Power List, among other accolades.

FIELDTRIP, born in Harlem and now with three thriving locations in New York City , is a testament to sustainable dining. Committed to using sustainable ingredients to create flavorful and diverse dining experiences centered around rice. At FIELDTRIP, global flavors take center stage, with a spotlight on heirloom grains. The rice bowls are thoughtfully paired with hearty vegetables and proteins, including the freshest, locally sourced seafood, ensuring a dining experience that is both delicious and ethical.

Rice Bowls include Fried Chicken with Chicken Breast, Carolina Gold Fried Rice , Wok Veggies, New Jack Sticky BBQ Sauce, and Scallions; Braised Beef includes Slow-Cooked Angus Beef, Texas Brown Rice, Wok Veggies, Chipotle Black Beans, Jalapeno and Scallions; Crispy Fish consists of Cornmeal-Crusted Cod, Herbed Rice, Wok Veggies, Tartar Sauce and Pickled Red Onions; Chickpea Curry with Eggplant, Texas Brown Rice, Wok Veggies and Scallions; among others. The menu also features Sides & Extras, including Sweet Plantains with Fire Roasted Red Peppers and Hot Honey; Crab Pockets made with Blue Crab, Garlic Herb Cream Cheese, and Sweet & Sour Sauce; and Nana ' s Bread served with Buttery Flatbread and Carrot Ginger Dip; and refreshing Beverages including Pineapple Ginger Lemonade , Dragon Fruit Lemonade and Sorrel, a hibiscus beverage are among the house-made options. Guests can also add their preferred alcohol to FIELDTRIP's homemade drinks.

"Atlantis Paradise Island is one of the most iconic and epic destinations there is, and the opportunity to join the family with FIELDTRIP is super exciting. The resort is one of the world's most photographed backdrops, and I hope that FIELDTRIP's global menu speaks to its travelers of all international backgrounds. FIELDTRIP Atlantis will be a place for all guests of the resort to gather over food." says Chef JJ Johnson.

"Not only does Chef JJ bring a unique culinary and cultural perspective to the resort, but he always brings fun! FIELDTRIP Atlantis Bahamas adds to the many healthy dining choices available for our guests and community to enjoy. It's been a pleasure experiencing JJ's cuisine through Atlantis' Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival and Table Takeover Series. Chef JJ and FIELDTRIP are welcome additions to Atlantis' culinary roster," says Audrey Oswell , President and Managing Director of Atlantis Paradise Island.

Chef JJ joins the resort's rapidly growing portfolio of internationally recognized chefs, including Michael White ( Paranza ), Nobu Matsuhisa ( Nobu ), José Andrés ( Fish ) and Alon Shaya ( Silan ). FIELDTRIP is part of the significant developments within the resort's dining collection, further solidifying Atlantis Paradise Island as the culinary capital of the Caribbean and a must-visit destination in the Bahamas.

For more information about FIELDTRIP at Atlantis Paradise Island, please visit www.atlantisbahamas.com  or follow @atlantisbahamas  and @NPIWFF .

About Atlantis Paradise Island: Atlantis Paradise Island , a lush, oceanside resort located on Paradise Island in the Bahamas , is a dynamic destination and offers visitors bold multimillion-dollar renovations, exciting new partnerships, and reimagined guest experiences. Bahamian culture and the spirit of its beloved team members are the heart and soul of this iconic, legendary resort. Atlantis' immersive programming connects guests to the rich history, art, people, food, and festivities of the Bahamas while remaining dedicated to sustainability and environmental conservation.

Home to Aquaventure, one of the world's largest waterparks, the 141-acre waterscape of thrilling slides and river rides features 14 pools and five miles of white sand beaches. Atlantis is also home to the largest open-air marine habitat in the world, with over 65,000 aquatic animals from 250 species making their home in natural ocean-fed lagoons and habitats, including Dolphin Cay , the unparalleled marine animal conservation and education center created to provide guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn more about some of nature's most fascinating mammals.

Atlantis has five unique lodging options: the grand, iconic newly renovated towers of The Royal, the family-friendly ambiance at The Coral, water-side villas at Harborside Resort, all-suite luxury accommodations at The Cove, and residential-style living at The Reef.

Guests can choose from an impressive collection of over 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges with celebrity chef culinary masterpieces, including Fish by José Andrés, Nobu by Nobu Matsuhisa, and Paranza by Michael White . With its unrivaled meeting and convention space and the well-appointed Atlantis Marina overlooking Marina Village, the Atlantis experiences are endless and unique to each traveler. Additional resort amenities include the tranquil Mandara Spa, a newly opened tennis and pickleball center, indoor and outdoor regulation basketball courts, a 500-seat movie theater, Atlantis Kids Adventures (AKA) for children ages 3-12, a gaming arcade, CRUSH- a teen nightclub, Jokers Wild comedy club, an award-winning 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf , the renowned and newly redecorated Atlantis Casino , and an array of luxury and boutique duty-free shopping.

For more information and reservations, please visit atlantisbahamas.com .

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/atlantis-paradise-island-opens-fieldtrip-from-multi-james-beard-foundation-award-winning-chef-jj-johnson-302182619.html

SOURCE Atlantis Paradise Island

35th Anniversary Caribbean Cruise

Celebrate 35 Years of Atlantis on the World’s Biggest Gay Festival at Sea.

Celebrate 35 years of Atlantis next February on the world’s biggest gay festival at sea! We’re going back to where it all began – the awe-inspiring Allure of the Seas for seven outrageously fun nights of non-stop entertainment, jaw-dropping parties, and 5500 guys from around the world. Sailing from Miami to three dazzling Caribbean islands with plenty of time to play onboard.

We’ll pull out all the stops for a star-studded extravaganza of thrills unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Get onboard the big one and discover why our massive winter Caribbean cruise is unlike anything on sea or land. You’ll have to experience this one for yourself!

Cruise Itinerary

Depart 5:00 pm

Playful Day at Sea

Awesome Day at Sea

St. Maarten

Arrive 8:00 am - Depart 8:00 pm

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Arrive 8:00 am - Depart 4:00 pm

Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 6:00 pm

Great Day at Sea

February 10

Arrive 6:00 am -

Itinerary subject to port berthing confirmation

Enjoy South Beach, home to Miami’s gay beach, or explore Wynwood Arts District with more than 50 galleries, studios and museums. With Miami’s infamous bars and clubs, exciting dining scene, and bustling beaches, you’ll never experience a dull moment.

We're ready to play on the world's largest ship! Your first full day at sea gives you plentiful time to explore the myriad of activities onboard Allure. Save some energy to join your new friends for an afternoon T-dance, a festival of Atlantis' signature shows. And then there's the party...

Hang with your new friends by the pool, indulge in a day at the spa, or enjoy our famous pool games. Or maybe today's the day you tackle the flowrider, zipline, or hit the gym. Whatever you do, just save energy for and a full night of excitement.

Dutch and French cultures meet in captivating St. Maarten for an extraordinary day of sightseeing and adventures. We’ll dock in Philipsburg, where duty-free shopping and beachfront dining await. Venture to the French town of Marigot to soak in its European flair and panoramic views from Fort Louis. Thrill-seekers can enjoy water sports at Maho Beach, famous for its close airplane landings, or relax on the calm shores of Orient Beach. Whether you're exploring colorful markets or relaxing on its many turquoise beaches, St. Maarten offers an unforgettable blend of cultural and natural attractions.

San Juan combines the culture of a historic city with the lifestyle of a modern metropolis. Visit Old San Juan’s beautifully restored historic sites, go shopping, or stop to enjoy authentic sangria and tapas. One of the gayest destinations in the Caribbean, San Juan features two gay beaches, numerous popular gay restaurants, and bars for brunch or day drinking, and more. Beyond San Juan, visitors can venture off to the mountains, caves, coral reefs, pristine beaches, and even the massive rain forest, El Yunque, for fantastic explorations.

Beachside meets mountainside on the shores of Labadee — a Royal Caribbean® private destination on Haiti’s northern coast. Here you’ll find pristine sands, coral reefs and jungle-covered hilltops nestling lagoon-like bays. There’s no shortage of places to relax and recharge across five stretches of beach. Or dial up the thrills on an active adventure like a half-mile-long zip line ride over the ocean.

The anticipation builds on our final day at sea. Catch the last of comedy or rest up before the Last Dance. Whether you turn up or wind down, find an endless selection of activities for your last day on board.

Welcome back to the vibrant city of Miami. Stay and enjoy the culture, sights and sounds or continue on to one of the many great destinations in South Florida, including Ft. Lauderdale and Key West.

Disembarkation begins at approximately 7 am on February 10th. Atlantis does not recommend flights before 11 am.

The World’s Biggest Ship. Ours.

Step onboard Allure of the Seas – the world’s largest and most exhilarating cruise ship. Five amazing venues host original Atlantis entertainment, superstar special guests, spectacular outdoor concerts, brilliant cabaret stars, massive production shows, and so much more. Four spectacular venues become rousing spaces for the world’s most outrageous parties — day and night. And four gorgeous pools invite you to relax and revel in the Caribbean sunshine. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find exciting ways to play on everything from a surf simulator to an ice rink to rock wall.

Seven distinct neighborhoods span Allure’s seventeen decks. Stroll the lush gardens in Central Park, ride a carousel on the Boardwalk, laugh in the Comedy Club, or take a spin on the ice rink. Maybe try a few things you never imagined like our spine-tingling zip line. Marvel at our high-diving show, enjoy a drink at The Rising Tide bar, or learn to surf on twin FlowRiders!

Three Inviting Islands

Adventure beckons as we sail from gay-central Miami to three of the most alluring islands in the Caribbean. After two glorious days at sea, you’ll arrive on the endlessly charming island of St. Maarten where Dutch and French cultures combine to create a little magic everywhere you turn.

Wake up the next morning for a day in gay-friendly San Juan, Puerto Rico. Take a walk around Old Town, venture out to the rain forest, shop for duty-free bargains, or find the perfect spot on Condado Beach.

Finally, indulge in our very own private beach with a magnificently relaxing day on the private island paradise of Labadee. We have the entire island to ourselves to create a magical all-gay beach day filled with friends and fun.

Stars. Super and More.

The world’s biggest festival of LGBT entertainment starts with massive shows in Allure’ three awesome main-stage venues. The 1300-seat main theater hosts Atlantis signature performers, special guests, dazzling production shows, original Broadway productions, Air-Otic, our uniquely original gay flying show, and many more.

Outdoors, the spectacular Aqua Theater boasts an original choreographed dive show – a true marvel of acrobatics, high-diving, and visual spectacle set against the ocean’s night sky. Discover the brilliant ice-skating show in Studio B, or take in a unique Atlantis musical concert up-close.

For something more intimate, check out our Gay Comedy All-Stars in the comedy club. Outrageous drag queens and dazzling singers are in Music Hall, and there are plenty of surprises everywhere you turn!

Electrifying Original Concerts.

Atlantis creates a live musical spectacle unlike anything our community has ever seen with live concerts featuring the world’s top artists. All in the ocean’s largest and most magnificent outdoor setting hosting thousands of guests for an extraordinary display of dazzling lights, lasers, and special effects. Past years have showcased headlines such as Above & Beyond, Oliver Heldens, Paul Van Dyk, Markus Schulz, Cosmic Gate, Galantis, Gareth Emery, Spencer Brown, and so much more. We’re planning even more concert shows in 2025 so get ready to be amazed!

Worlds. Best. Parties.

Atlantis’ legendary parties explode throughout Allure to create the most spectacular events on land or sea. From our themed T-dances to endless nighttime parties, there’s nothing like dancing outdoors under the ocean’s sky. The sensational AquaTheater hosts Atlantis’ legendary afternoon T-dances (and a few special events), surrounded by huge LED screens, world-class sound, and of course endless ocean views.

At night, we’ll transform the massive open-air Solarium into the ocean’s most technically advanced nightclub, with walls of video, awesome lasers and dazzling lighting. The two-story dance floor creates the perfect space to get lost in a magical night. And indoors, Studio B is simply the greatest dance club at sea. Ever. From after hours to a few special themed events, It’s a magical, silly, crazy space that never stops.

We’re creating some new and dynamic experiences for our anniversary that have never been seen before on Atlantis. Wait until you see what we have in store!

Something for Everyone.

Every moment on an Atlantis cruise is an opportunity to share, be it your name, your story, costume, or something a bit more scandalous. Whether having cocktails, laughing together at a comedy show, partaking in a game on the pool deck, grabbing a quick bite between events or sharing a leisurely meal, each of these moments can lead to new friends and a community that lasts long after you depart the gangway.

Our friendly team welcomes all, from large groups of friends to solo travelers, ready to bring people together, with engaging experiences for every taste, style, and pace. We make it easier than ever to connect, relax, refresh, and be a part of the wonder that makes our community strong when we all come together.

More Included in 2025.

Our annual winter cruise has become a legendary experience, shared by tens of thousands of guys from around the world. We’re committed to keeping it accessible to everyone, with fares starting at just $1299 for a week of nonstop joy. Our monthly payment plan makes it easier than ever for everyone to discover.

This year, we’re adding even more to your experience, with each guest receiving one complementary specialty restaurant dinner, as well as 21 of our new Universal Drink Tickets. It’s our way of saying thank you for your loyalty and making connecting easier than ever!

We invite you to get on board the most spectacular and fun-filled Atlantis cruise we’ve ever conceived as we start a new chapter in gay vacations. But don’t delay; we’ve sold out yearly in record time!

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas