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Questions...and Answers

In over 20 years of creating amazing vacations for gays and lesbians, we've been asked a lot of questions. Some expected, others less so. And while we'd love to include them all, we thought we'd start with the most common ones. If you've still got a nagging question that isn't answered here, please ask away using either our handy contact form, or by picking up the phone and calling 800.328.RSVP (7787).

  • The Cruise Experience
  • About Our Guests
  • About Booking
  • Before You Go
  • While Onboard...and Off

The Cruise Experience

    I've never been on a cruise before, how can I be sure I'll like it?
  • Some people worry that there won't be enough to do, others think they'll be too much structure. Well, we're here to set you straight (metaphorically speaking). A cruise ship is like a small bustling city on the water. There are spas, gyms, stores, pools, restaurants, theaters, bars and more. So, you can go to the movies, hang out by the pool, take a jog, have a great meal and it's all right outside your door. Plus, the boat stops at incredible ports where you can continue your adventure on land. The best part is, it's all up to you. Choose to do it all or nothing at all.
    • The thought of hundreds or in some cases thousands of gays on a boat is somewhat overwhelming...does it really feel that way?
  • No. Well, yes and no. Yes, the boat is full of gays. No, they are not all raging queens. Sure some people may spend the whole trip taking advantage of the party scene but many others are taking advantage of the incredible variety of activities. Whether you want to rage all night and sleep all day or you want to sleep all night and engage all day...there's plenty to choose from.
    • I've heard that some of these cruises are basically one non-stop circuit party on water. What if I don't want that? What if I do?
  • None of our vacations could be considered a non-stop circuit party. That said, we do have lots of very fun parties for you to attend. Check out some of our upcoming trips to see what's right for you.
    • How many different kinds of cruises do you have?
  • We have large ship cruises on Holland America Lines and Norwegian Cruise Lines to the Caribbean, Mexico and Alaska as well as smaller, intimate European riverboats like the Amadeus Waterway’s Amalyra.
    • What are the accommodations like?
  • Like men, the accommodations vary by size...and in this case, also by price. All RSVP ships are considered premium properties with top quality amenities. To find out more, go to the ship section of each vacation.

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About RSVP travelers

    Describe the typical RSVP Vacations traveler?
  • First of all, there really isn't a typical RSVP Vacations traveler. We attract a wide range of people-young and old, single and coupled, tan and un-tanned, body beautiful and body normal. At RSVP Vacations everyone fits in...unless of course you're homophobic, which we're guessing you're not since you've gotten this far. All kidding aside, most of our travelers don't pack any attitude...just Speedo's®, flip-flops and other accessories.
    • Are women welcome on RSVP Vacations?
  • Yes. We love women. (And who wouldn't). In fact, lesbians are not only welcome but encouraged to travel with RSVP Vacations. Currently, lesbians from across the country and around the world represent approximately 10% of every trip, and we'd love to see that percentage rise.
    • Are non-gays welcome, too?
  • Maybe. Non-gays are welcome if they are not threatened by the homosexually-charged environment in which they will represent a minority (for a change).
    • I'm in a new relationship with a great guy. If we travel on one of these trips will I be in constant fear of someone trying to steal him?
  • While we have a strict no stealing policy when it comes to boyfriends, we can't always enforce it. But all joking aside, many of our guests who are traveling with a significant other find the atmosphere friendly but not threatening.
    • What if I'm traveling solo?
  • Then, you'll be in great company. RSVP Vacations goes out of its way to make singles feel totally comfortable. We have singles mixers, singles dining rooms, room mate matching services and a group of single cute, successful, friendly guys and gals to keep you busy.
    • What if I have special needs?
  • We bend over backwards (pun intended) to help individuals with special needs to have a fantastic time on an RSVP Vacations trip. So, if you have any medical and or mobility needs, specific dietary requirements, ASL (American Sign Language) needs, or other requests, simply let us know. And please do so no less than 90 days prior to trip departure so we can make sure all your needs are met.
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About Booking

    Can I book a trip directly with RSVP?
  • Absolutely. All you have to do is go to the Reservations page. If you have any questions we have a well-trained staff with sexy voices to help you. Or you can call your favorite travel agent. Click here to find a travel agent near you.
    • What's included in the price of my vacation?
  • The price of your trip includes accommodations (on the ship or resort) for the duration of the scheduled itinerary, all meals including room service (cruises only), basic beverages (coffee, tea and iced tea), all entertainment and RSVP activities. Please note that land excursions on cruises are extra.
    • What's not included in the price of my vacation?
  • The price of your trip does not include airfare, transfers, shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, some specialty coffee drinks, spa treatments. Port taxes and gratuities are not included in the price of the trip but have already been added to your reservation as reflected on your invoice.
    • Do you help with the booking of airfare and hotels before and after a trip?
  • While we can't help you directly with the booking of your airfare and hotels, we do offer special deals and promotions. Before you make your plans, check out the Activities & Options section for each destination. Wherever possible RSVP Vacations tries to arrange attractive pre and post trip extensions including hotel and activities.
    • Do you help find roommates? How does that work?
  • Yes, we're happy to help you find an appropriate roommate at no additional charge. And just so you know, we don't use the dartboard method when trying to select an appropriate roomy for you. We try to take into consideration a variety of factors including smoking preference. There are share rooms available in the categories listed on each program and are subject to availability.
    • What are my payment options?
  • We take VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and checks. Please no cash, unmarked bills or third party out of state checks. We require an initial deposit when you book your trip with an additional deposit due 180 days before the trip. Full payment is due 90 days prior to the trip.
    • Once I've booked my trip, where can I find more specific trip information?
  • In a specially designated section of each cruise section called "Information for Travelers". You should also bookmark the itinerary page of your specific trip because whenever we book a new act or activity, it shows up there first. Like voting, we suggest coming early and often.
    • Are there any advantages to booking early?
  • The main advantage is choice of accommodation. Plus you'll have more time to get excited, flaunt your good fortune and invite your friends to come along.

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Before you go...

    Do I need a passport and visa?
  • All RSVP Vacations guests require a valid passport at the time of departure. You have the sole responsibility for determining your immigration requirements and obtaining appropriate documentation, including but not limited to visas, passports, etc. Boarding will be denied for failure to possess the appropriate immigration documentation.
  • As for a visa*, if you mean an extra piece of government documentation required in addition to your passport then no...not for the countries visited on this trip. If you mean a plastic credit card...well it never hurts.
  • *Visa and documentation requirements vary by destination and change from time to time without prior notice. Additionally, ensure that you check with the consulate of each country you will visit at least three months prior to departure to verify current regulations. It is your obligation to have complete travel documentation. Please reconfirm visa requirements 5-7 days prior to departure to verify current regulations.
    • Will I need to get any shots?
  • Well, if by shots you mean vaccines...no. But, if you mean small, rapid consumption of alcohol...then yes, maybe.
    • When will I receive my travel documents?
  • Once you've made your initial deposit, you will receive a statement from RSVP or your travel agent confirming your booking. You will receive further statements for each payment made. Please, review these statements carefully to make sure all of the details including the spelling of your name is correct and matches your passport. Approximately one month prior to your trip departure we will email your cruise line booking/reservation number and provide you with online access to all the information you need to register with the cruise line and print your cruise line boarding pass and other travel documents.
    • What if I need to change the name on my ticket?
  • A name change fee may be charged for each name changed. Name changes may not be allowed within 90 days of the scheduled departure.
    • Should I buy trip insurance?
  • Honestly, it's not a bad idea, since it covers your travel costs/expenses in the event you need to cancel. To make it simple, RSVP Vacations has contracted with Travelex to provide you with this service. Just call 800.228.9792 or visit www.travelexinsurance.com for details. (Please note that you must purchase your trip insurance within 21 days of purchasing your RSVP Vacations trip in order to waive any pre-existing limitations.)
    • How much luggage can I bring?
  • You can bring as much luggage as you want but there are a couple of things to keep in mind when packing:
    1. less is more
    2. airlines have their own baggage allowance restrictions
    3. vacationing is about letting go of baggage not bringing it with you
    • Do I need to fill out any special forms to complete my reservation?
  • Each RSVP Vacations guest needs to complete a Reservation Request Form, which you can download directly from our website. It's important that you read, sign and return these forms within your option period to confirm your reservation. If you change your form of payment we will need a new Reservation Request Form with your name and the new credit card information.
    • After I have booked my trip where can I find my Confirmation Number and Guest ID Number?
  • Your Confirmation and Guest ID Numbers are located on your statement. Use these numbers when communicating with us regarding your booking. If you're unsure of your Confirmation or Guest ID Number please contact us at 1.800.328.RSVP.

While on board...and off

    How should I dress?
  • For daytime activities we suggest comfortable clothes, a bathing suit, work out clothes – whatever makes you comfortable. For evening activities dress ranges from casual and club wear to more formal. Comfortable, relaxed clothing is fine for most evenings on an RSVP cruise. However, T-shirts, swimsuits, tank tops and shorts are not allowed in the main dining rooms, (T-shirts are fine in the casual dining room). We usually offer one formal night on our sailings but please check our website 4 weeks prior to your departure for the final decision. If we do offer a formal night, black tie is suggested but not required. In warmer climates, many of our passengers prefer to wear just a nice shirt and linen slacks for more comfort. Also check our website closer to your departure date so you can attend our signature parties dressed to the theme!
    • What if I feel seasick?
  • Well, if you're on a land trip, then we suggest a really good therapist. If you're cruising, then you have lots of over-the-counter seasick medications to choose from. We sell them on board, but it's always a good idea to bring your own.
    • When we get off the boat at ports how can I be sure that I will be safe?
  • RSVP carefully researches all of its ports and final destinations to ensure that they are gay friendly.
    • Can I smoke on board?
  • Smoking is allowed in designated areas.
    • Can I send email from the ship?
  • It depends on the ship. Many of them have an Internet café but not all.
    • Is there laundry on the ship?
  • Is the Pope Catholic? Of course, there's laundry.
    • What happens to my luggage at the end of the voyage?
  • Usually we keep it. OK just kidding, why would we want all that dirty laundry anyway? At the end of your cruise or land vacation, porters will deliver your luggage dockside or curbside (for land based travel). For cruisers, many lines offer an “express check out” option the morning of arrival, but you have to be capable of lifting your own luggage down the gangway. So make sure you hit the gym before leaving the ship.
    • Can I bring friends onboard the ship?
  • No, RSVP Vacations has a policy of no visitors onboard the ship. So, if you make friends while in port...you will need to keep them in port. It's a safety thing.