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VACAYA’s 2025 LGBT+ Mardi Gras Caribbean Cruise sets an all-new standard for what’s possible in the world of all-LGBT+ and all-gay cruising! You’ll sail 7 magical nights roundtrip from The Big Easy, returning to New Orleans just in time for the biggest party in the world… Mardi Gras 2025!
At the end of the cruise, VACAYA has an incredible 4-night post-cruise stay in New Orleans available for purchase, as well. Those 4 nights are packed with nearly everything you could ever want from a Mardi Gras experience – grandstand seating for the best parades (Endymion, Bacchus, Zulu, and Rex), delicious food, bayou fun, transfers everywhere you’ll need them, and VIP Tables at the Orpheus Ball! Mardi Gras has never been this easy or this much fun!
As you know, cruising takes the guess work out of travel. And with all the added VACAYA benefits – from signature entertainment and welcoming parties to endless social activities and non-stop fun – it’s also an incredible value. With so many inclusions, your precious vacation dollars have never been better spent. And with this cruise – like VACAYA has done with all their big-ship Caribbean cruises since the beginning – you’ll have the ability to purchase Royal Caribbean’s unlimited beverage packages to make the value even better!
It’s amazing what’s included:
*Some of the specialty dining venues have an additional cost, but they’re worth every penny.
**There’s a nominal delivery fee for room service.
Mardi Gras in Full Swing
New Orleans Food & Drinks
Sun, Sand, Waves, Laughter
Three Magical Sea Days
Voluntourism Opportunities
Endless Parties, Entertainment, & Fun
Day 1 – Sat, Feb 22, 2025
New Orleans, LA – Depart 4pm
Day 2 – Sun, Feb 23, 2025
Fun-Filled Day at Sea
Day 3 – Mon, Feb 24, 2025
Cozumel, Mexico – Arrive 8am – Depart 5pm
Day 4 – Tue, Feb 25, 2025
George Town, Grand Cayman – Arrive 11am – Depart 7pm
Day 5 – Wed, Feb 26, 2025
Shenanigan-Filled Day at Sea
Day 6 – Thu, Feb 27, 2025
Yucatan (Progreso), Mexico – Arrive 8am – Depart 5pm
Day 7 – Fri, Feb 28, 2025
One Last Relaxing Day at Sea
Day 8 – Sat, Mar 1, 2025
New Orleans, LA – Arrive 7am – Disembark by 9am
Please contact us to obtain the full itineary.
If you love next-level thrills, fantastic dining, and stellar entertainment, you’ll love this VACAYA getaway on Brilliance of the Seas. There are very few ships that are truly perfect for all-LGBT+ charter cruising, and Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class ships are among the very best. Brilliance of the Seas is the second in the line-up of four Radiance Class ships, joining VACAYA’s other favorites – Celebrity Millennium Class, Solstice Class, and Edge Class – for top honors. Add Brilliance’s approachable and helpful staff to the mix, and she’s an all-around winner for VACAYA!
Brilliance’s stunning nine-story central atrium is surrounded by glass, and elevators face the outside, giving you endless ocean views throughout the ship. And after a day of fun out in the Caribbean, indulge in the comfort of an Interior, Oceanview, Balcony Stateroom, or Suite – each at a different price point to fit every budget. From their spectacular views to the deluxe amenities sprinkled throughout, you’ll find Brilliance’s myriad rooms the perfect home-away-from-home.
A nearly perfect journey awaits on Brilliance of the Seas
No matter what kind of dish you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something tasty worth trying at the Windjammer. Pop in during the morning for scrambled egg Bhurji served with roti, or home-style crispy chicken and waffles. Refuel in between adventures with a refreshing watermelon and feta salad or classic fish and chips. Or sample your way from Italy to India with dishes like traditional chicken marsala, savory pork vindaloo, tangy duck à l’orange, and flavorful Caribbean goat curry.
In the mood for deli classics that knock it out of the park? Head to Park Café, where you’ll find quick bites to please every palate. Crisp made-to-order salads? Check. Fresh-pressed paninis and sandwiches? Double check. And don’t miss the legendary Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich — it’s a guest favorite (and a rite of passage for cruising foodies). The menu at Park Café offers something for everyone during breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks. Come here for deli classics, like soups and sandwiches, plus sweet treats and a stellar breakfast spread.
From delicious sushi rolls to fresh sashimi and nigiri, Izumi serves up an exotic Asian-inspired dining experience. Savor izakaya-style appetizers and rolls that range from classic to imaginative. No matter what you order, you’re in for a far out, Far East feast filled with incredible flavors from Tōhoku to Tokyo. At Izumi Sushi, you’ll indulge in a four-course meal that includes one starter, two mains, and one dessert. Extra charge.
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant. Now, they give you a fresh twist on a favorite, with a revamped menu that brings contemporary flair to traditional steakhouse offerings. Most intriguing: the exceptional prime beef. This prime beef is joined by Maine lobster, grilled branzino, and other succulent dishes paired with addictive sides and irresistible desserts. Extra charge.
Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives, and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes, and sautéed green beans. Extra charge.
The vintage décor at R Bar creates the perfect atmosphere to order a classic old fashioned or gimlet, but you should definitely also try one of the signature cocktails on the menu. Those who prefer their drinks on the fruity side will love the Purple Haze, made with Bacardi 8 rum, Blue Curacao and Pernod, and shaken with pineapple juice, passion fruit puree, and a splash of grenadine. The bartenders here are pros. Let them surprise you with something not on the menu.
VACAYA’s signature venue returns! Step inside VACAYA’s Red Light District where fantasies come alive and inhibitions melt away. As queer folx explore this sanctioned intimate play space, you’ll discover an intimate world where uninhibited passion and desire take center stage. Lose yourself in the labyrinth, the rhythmic beats, and the tantalizing sounds of fervor that hang in the air. Full details will be posted on the trip’s Get Ready page as you get closer to sailing. And of course, VACAYA will have a satellite bar nearby so you can grab a drink before heading in!
Wrap up your night at Schooner Bar, where perfectly mixed cocktails and live VACAYA entertainment come together in a warmly-lit nautical-themed lounge. Cozy up in a seat under the mast, by the portholes, or right by the gleaming grand piano. The sing-alongs are about to begin! Up for something different? Let the bartender know what your favorite spirit is, and ask them to whip you up a surprise!
Pricing below includes the following:
Non-Commissionable Port Taxes and Admin Fees are 347 USD per person.
Pre-Paid Gratuities are 168 USD per person for guests in Suites, and 137 USD for all other stateroom categories. 100% of these gratuities go to onboard staffers, including your stateroom attendant, the culinary services staff, the behind-the-scenes hotel services staff, and the myriad department heads who work with their teams around the clock to create a flawless VACAYA experience for you.
Full size bed and full bathroom for a solo traveler.
Sleeps 1. Location: Decks 4. Room 108 sqft. Code 2W.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and Bathroom.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10. Room 170 sqft. Code 4V.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and Bathroom.
Sleeps 3 or 4. Location: Decks 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room 170 sqft. Code 3V.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and Bathroom.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, or 9. Room 170 sqft. Code 2V.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and Bathroom.
Sleeps 3 or 4. Location: Decks 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room 170 sqft. Code 1V.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa, full bathroom and private balcony with obstrcted view.
Sleeps up to 3 Location: Decks 7, 8, 0r 9. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 2E.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa, full bathroom and private balcony with obstrcted view.
Sleeps 3, 4, or 5. Location: Decks 7, 8, or 9. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 1E.
Sold Out
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps up to 3. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 5D.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9 or 10. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 4D.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps up to 4. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 3D.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 2D.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps up to 4. Location: Decks 7, 8, or 9. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 1D.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room: 204 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 4B.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps 4 or 5. Location: Decks 9 or 10. Room: 204 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 3B.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 9. Room: 204 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 2B.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom.
Sleeps up 3, 4 & 5 (depending on room). Location: Decks 9 or 10. Room: 204 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: 1B.
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa, full bathroom and private balcony. Potential to connect with adjoining stateroom if purchased.
Sleeps 2. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9, or 10. Room: 179 sqft. Balcony: 41 sqft. Code: CB.
Junior Suite High Occupancy – Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with soda bed and bathroom with tub. Priority boarding.
Sleeps 3 or 4. Location: Decks 10. Room: 299 sqft. Balcony: 66 sqft. Code: J3.
Grand Suite – 1 Bedroom – Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with double sofa bed. Bathroom with tub and double sink. Luxury Bathroom Amenities, Priority Boarding, Concierge Service, Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access, Prority Dining Reservations, Priority Spa Bookings, Complimentary 24-hour room service.
Sleeps up to 4. Location: Decks 10. Room: 385 sqft. Balcony: 108 sqft. Code: GS.
Grand Suite – Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to Royal King (one room with third and fourth Pullman beds), a private balcony, two bathrooms and living area with double sofa bed. Luxury Bathroom Amenities, Priority Boarding, Concierge Service, Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access, Prority Dining Reservations, Priority Spa Bookings, Complimentary 24-hour room service.
Sleeps up to 8. Location: Decks 10. Room: 584 sqft. Balcony: 86 sqft. Code: GT.
Owner’s Suite – 1 Bedroom – Queen-size bed, bathroom with whirlpool tub, double sink and bidet. Separate living area with a double sofa bed. Luxury Bathroom Amenities, Priority Boarding, Concierge Service, Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access, Prority Dining Reservations, Priority Spa Bookings, Complimentary 24-hour room service.
Sleeps up to 4. Location: Decks 10. Room: 512 sqft. Balcony: 57 sqft. Code: OS.
Owner’s Suite – 2 Bedrooms – Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to Royal King (one room with third and fourth Pullman beds), two bathrooms (one with shower, one with bathtub), living area with double sofa bed, private balcony, and concierge service. Luxury Bathroom Amenities, Priority Boarding, Concierge Service, Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access, Prority Dining Reservations, Priority Spa Bookings, Complimentary 24-hour room service.
Sleeps up to 8. Location: Decks 7, 8, 9. Room: 584 sqft. Balcony: 151 sqft. Code: OT.
Royal Suite – One separate bedroom with king-size bed and bathroom with tub, double sink and bidet. Private balcony, living room with queen-size sofa bed and baby grand piano. Suite also features a dining table, wet bar, entertainment center and walk-in closets. Amenities: Officer Escort Onboard from Terminal at Check-In, Welcome champagne, Luxury Bathroom Amenities, Priority Boarding, Priority Departure, Concierge Service, Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access, Prority Dining Reservations, Priority Spa Bookings, Complimentary 24-hour room service.
Sleeps up to 4. Location: Deck 10. Room: 1000 sqft. Balcony: 172 sqft. Code: RS.
Non-Commissionable Port Taxes and Admin Fees are 347 USD per person.
Pre-Paid Gratuities are 168 USD per person for guests in Suites, and 137 USD for all other stateroom categories. 100% of these gratuities go to onboard staffers, including your stateroom attendant, the culinary services staff, the behind-the-scenes hotel services staff, and the myriad department heads who work with their teams around the clock to create a flawless VACAYA experience for you.
Solo guests in their own stateroom pay double gratuities and single port taxes/admin fees.
The one exception to this is the “Studio Interior – Solo Occupancy” room category. For those rooms, solo occupants pay single gratuities and single port taxes/admin fees.
The fare for 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th guests is 497 USD each in all staterooms and suites. In addition to the fare, each additional guest pays the standard Port Taxes/Admin Fees, as well as the Pre-Paid Gratuity amount for that room category.
Rooms designated as “Feel the Beat” Rooms are on the deck directly below the dance floor. These are perfect for anyone who tends to stay at our parties until the last beat drops. Rooms that are on lower floors beneath the dance floor may also feel vibrations from the bass and occasionally hear the music itself, but that will typically be at a much lower level than the “Feel the Beat” Rooms on the deck just below the dance floor.
You will earn Crown & Anchor Society points for this sailing with VACAYA. Many of the standard-sailing benefits, though, don’t apply to charter events. For example, most Crown & Anchor Society events, like the Captain’s Welcome Aboard Party or the daily Happy Hours do not occur on charters. Discounts on beverage packages and internet packages, however, do apply based on your elite status. For those discounts to apply, you must first link your Crown & Anchor Society membership to your VACAYA booking within Royal Caribbean’s reservations management tool. You can only do this once you’ve received your Royal Caribbean Booking Number, which typically happens around 45 days prior to sailing. If you need assistance linking your Crown & Anchor Society account to your VACAYA reservation, simply contact Royal Caribbean @ +1.800.256.6649.
Room descriptions and sizing have been provided to VACAYA by Royal Caribbean. Room sizes and layouts may vary slightly within the same category. For rooms with a capacity greater than 2, the additional bedding is a combination of sofa beds and/or upper berths. Prices are subject to change at any time – with or without notice.
Be “In The Know” about Obstructions: The standard cruise industry definition of an obstruction or partial obstruction is if the view of the horizon is interrupted when an average height person (170cm or 5’7”) is standing at the balcony’s handrail. If the horizon line is blocked in its entirety, the view is considered fully “obstructed.” If any part of the view of the horizon line is blocked by a lifeboat, overhang, support beam, or any other fixed apparatus (not including moveable cleaning equipment), the view is considered “partially obstructed.” If the horizon line can be viewed in its entirety when standing at the handrail, the view is not considered to be obstructed in any way.
You may pay in full at the time of booking. Unless you later modify your reservation, no further payments will be necessary.
Your initial deposit is due at time of booking. Then, your remaining monthly payments will be calculated using the number of months between your booking and the final payment due date. Payments will be charged on the 15th or the last day of each month (determined automatically depending on the day of the month you book). Payments will be charged to your credit card on file. If your credit card details change at any time, simply update the info in VACAYA’s system prior to your next month’s payment date. Please note declined payments are subject to a convenience fee. For more information, explore VACAYA’s Automatic Billing FAQs and their Terms & Conditions.
There is one question every traveler across the globe universally faces: should I purchase Travel Insurance? It’s natural to ask yourself, should I spend the extra dollars to protect my vacation investment? Or do I leave it in the hands of Lady Luck and hope for the best. At Purple Light Vacations and at VACAYA, we’ve always believed Trip Insurance was critical to the vacation planning process. That’s why VACAYA took special care to integrate the purchase opportunity into our online booking process. Pre-pandemic, the main reason to buy insurance was to assure your safe return home if something were to happen to your health while on vacation. That’s because quality insurance covers medical evacuation so people don’t have to pay medical emergency transportation expenses out of their own pocket.
With Covid-19 in our lives for the foreseeable future, we now have an even stronger rationale for recommending Trip Insurance. “Cancel For Any Reason” insurance has quickly risen in popularity, and for good reason. If you decide you don’t want to travel after the cancellation penalty period has begun and depending on when you cancel, this type of insurance might cover most if not all of your cancellation fee. It’s also a great way to help honor your Social Contract with VACAYA.
So go ahead and buy that bucket list trip, but protect your health and your investment by purchasing Trip Insurance. ❤️
Please read VACAYA’s Terms and Conditions before contacting us to book this LGBT+ Mardi Gras Caribbean cruise.
Pricing, availability and itinerary for this LGBT+ Mardi Gras Caribbean cruise are subject to change. Neither Purple Light Vacations nor VACAYA will be responsible for any inaccuracies.
Jonathan and his team pulled out all the stops for our boys trip! I planned a very last minute trip for me, my dad and son and this team completed an entire agenda full of entertainment, food stops, and must see places! Truly impressed with his customer service, attention to detail, and responsiveness. If these guys are helping you plan a trip, you can rest assured that it will be amazing!
My wife and I had the trip of a lifetime in France for our 20 year anniversary, thanks to Jonathan and Purple Light Vacations. His ideas for hotels, itinerary and tours were spot on. He was completely able to gauge what we would love with just a short conversation and a few emails. Thank you Jonathan. You're a rockstar and we will definitely be using you again and again!
We just booked our second cruise within the past year through Purple Light Vacations due to their outstanding service. Jonathan Geen is not only highly professional, he is enjoyable to work with. What is the one thing we all want from the service industry, and especially dealing with travel and vacations-- timely and helpful assistance. Jonathan was quick to respond to any question or inquiry, whether by email or phone, any time or day of the week. He went over and above to make sure we were taken care of, and even provided information about places he didn't even book for us. Purple Light is now our go-to firm for travel and vacations.
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Purple Light Vacations
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Phone: (619) 324-1444
Fax: (619) 765-3033
CST# 2113473
Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST40248
Travel services not offered to those outside of the United States and the Canadian provinces of Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia or residents of the states of Hawaii.