There’s something transformative about travel. It breaks the monotony of daily life and opens doors to new cultures, experiences, and connections. But when that travel is coupled with an inclusive, LGBTQ+ community, it becomes even more special. This year, we had the privilege of embarking on two unforgettable OUTbound cruises: one to France in April and another to Italy in September. Each journey was filled with personal milestones, historical revelations, and vibrant interactions that not only enriched our understanding of the world but also strengthened the bonds within our community.
For those who may not be familiar, OUTbound Travel offers cruises tailored to the LGBTQ+ community, providing a refined experience that emphasizes connection, culture, and inclusivity. These cruises are an alternative to the more common "party-centric" gay cruises, focusing instead on meaningful excursions, expert planning, and the chance to bond with fellow travelers over shared interests. From the moment we set sail, it was clear that this wasn’t just a vacation—it was a journey that would leave a lasting impact.
The Hook: Discovering the Joy of OUTbound Cruises
Garrett: "My first experience with OUTbound was the Christmas cruise. I’d heard about LGBTQ+ cruises before but had hesitated to join, unsure of whether it would fit my travel style. That cruise changed everything. It wasn’t just about the destinations—it was about the people, the camaraderie, and the seamless planning that took away all the stress. I was hooked. The OUTbound team really takes care of every detail, from logistics to excursions, leaving you free to enjoy the experience. After that, I knew I had to bring Russ along for the next trip.”
Russ: "Garrett has always been the extrovert, while I’m more of an introvert. But as soon as I joined him on the France cruise, I understood what he was talking about. OUTbound creates this inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of personality or background—feels welcome. Whether you’re the shy guy sitting at the back or the life of the party, by the end of the cruise, you’ll know everyone. That sense of community is what made these trips truly special for me.”
France: A Journey Through History and Art
Our first adventure together this year took us to France, cruising from Paris up the Seine to Normandy and back. France is a country steeped in history, art, and culture, and our OUTbound cruise made sure we experienced it all. From the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower to the reflective shores of Normandy, every stop on our journey offered something unique and unforgettable.
Garrett: "Growing up, I used to visit the Las Vegas Strip and pretend I was traveling the world, marveling at the replicas of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum. Being able to finally see the real thing in Europe was a dream come true. One of the highlights for me on the Paris cruise was visiting Monet’s Garden. I’d seen pictures of it, of course, but nothing compares to standing there in person, surrounded by the same vibrant colors and natural beauty that inspired his masterpieces."
Russ: "For me, visiting the Normandy Beaches was particularly poignant. Both of my grandfathers served in World War II, and while I don’t think they were in Normandy, standing there brought home the magnitude of that history. Seeing the remnants of the war—the bunkers, the graves—it was a reminder of how much has changed and how much we still have to fight for. The entire cruise was filled with these kinds of experiences—moments that made you stop, reflect, and appreciate the journey."
Garrett: "And let’s not forget Versailles! The scale of it—the opulent architecture, the sprawling gardens, the endless halls filled with art—was mind-blowing. It’s one of those places you can’t believe exists until you see it with your own eyes."
Russ: "Exactly. And while we shared most of these excursions together, there was also room for personal exploration. OUTbound gives you the flexibility to tailor your experience. One day, Garrett might be exploring the Louvre while I’m enjoying a quiet moment at a café. It’s the perfect balance of structured activities and personal freedom."
Italy: Culture, Cuisine, and Camaraderie
If France was about history and art, Italy was about indulgence and culture. Our cruise in September took us from Rome to Venice, with stops in Murano, Burano, Croatia, and even Montenegro. Italy is a country where every meal is a masterpiece, every street is a gallery, and every day feels like a celebration.
Garrett: "Venice was the highlight for me. The canals, the gondolas, the architecture—it was like stepping into a postcard. We visited Murano, famous for its glass blowing, and Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making. It was the kind of place you see in travel magazines and dream of visiting, and there we were, experiencing it firsthand."
Russ: "What stood out for me was the sense of connection we built, not just with each other but with the other travelers. OUTbound river cruises typically have 100 people on board, and by the end of the trip, you’ve made lasting friendships. Sea cruises can have 300-500 on board. One night, we were enjoying dinner in Sorrento, and the next, we were on the deck of the ship, laughing with new friends while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean. It’s these shared moments that make the OUTbound experience so special."
Russ: "And of course, there’s the food. Every meal felt like a celebration of Italian culture, from the fresh pasta and seafood to the locally sourced olive oil and wine. OUTbound makes sure that the culinary experiences are as memorable as the excursions. One afternoon in France we were dining at a seaside restaurant in Normandy, and the next trip, we were sipping Limoncello in Sorrento. It doesn’t get much better than that."
Garrett: "The excursions in Italy were equally incredible. We visited the ruins of Pompeii, explored the Amalfi Coast, and even took a day trip to Capri. But what really made the trip special was the sense of community on board. By the time we docked in Venice at the end of the cruise, it felt like we were saying goodbye to family."
The OUTbound Difference: More Than Just a Cruise
One of the things that sets OUTbound apart from other LGBTQ+ cruises is the attention to detail. Every excursion is carefully curated to offer both cultural depth and personal connection. Whether you’re learning about ancient civilizations at the Colosseum or watching a drag show at sea with performers like Paige Turner and Chase Brown, OUTbound ensures that every aspect of your trip is memorable.
Garrett: "The entertainment on board was top-notch. We had Paige Turner and Chase Brown with us, as well as some incredible talent from Vegas and beyond. Miss Bouvée, who we discovered on the Italy cruise, blew us away with her performances. And it wasn’t just the headliners—the ship’s onboard entertainment was equally impressive, from the singers and dancers to the crew who made every day feel like a celebration."
Russ: "What also standard out is the sense of inclusion. OUTbound really goes out of its way to make sure everyone feels welcome, regardless of age, gender, or orientation. We had gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer travelers on board, and it felt like every letter of the LGBTQ+ acronym was represented. It’s a rare thing to find such a diverse group of people coming together and genuinely enjoying each other’s company."
Garrett: "And it’s not just about what happens on the ship. OUTbound’s excursions are designed to give you a deeper understanding of the places you visit. In Paris, we learned about the city’s rich LGBTQ+ history, from the lives of artists like Leonardo da Vinci to the struggles and triumphs of the queer community in France. In Italy, we explored the influence of religion on architecture and society, visiting countless basilicas and churches that have shaped the country’s history."
Looking Ahead: Join Us in Greece!
As we look back on our OUTbound adventures in France and Italy, we’re filled with gratitude for the experiences we’ve shared and the friendships we’ve made. These cruises have given us the chance to see the world through a different lens—to learn, to grow, and to connect with fellow travelers in a way that’s both meaningful and fun.
And now, we’re excited to invite you to join us on our next adventure: an OUTbound cruise to Greece in September 2025! We’ll be sailing through the stunning Mediterranean, exploring ancient ruins, breathtaking coastlines, and iconic Greek islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to cruising, this trip promises to be an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful regions in the world.
You can start planning your dream trip today without the stress of upfront costs. OUTbound offers interest-free payment plans and a range of accommodations, from affordable cabins to luxurious suites, ensuring there’s something for every budget. And with a 10% discount for QVegas readers using the code "QVEGAS," there’s never been a better time to book.
We can’t wait to sail with you in Greece—let’s make memories together that will last a lifetime.
For more information and to book your trip, visit qvegas.com/outbound. See you on board!