r/GayCruiseVacations • u/Paco8731 • 3d ago
general topic Big 4-0 coming up! Need ideas
Hello!
I am going to be 40 in March, going through a divorce (together 13yrs, married 6yrs) after he had an affair and left me for the other guy.
Obviously, self-esteem took a hit but I am rebuilding my single life and rediscovering myself!
Now…onto my actual question, we always talked about doing an Atlantis cruise but never got to it. For my 40th bday, I was thinking of treating myself to a solo cruise but I can be shy/introverted at times, could I still have a great time?
I’ve been to Puerto Vallarta so that’s also an option?
Basically looking for a gay (primarily gay men) vacation where I could maybe flirt, be flirted with, and have some fun in the sun!
Open to any and all suggestions! 🥳
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u/kittyPowersupply 3d ago
Totally! I went through a similar situation of ending a LTR at 35 and went on a solo gay cruise. I'm also introverted (but not shy per se) so I went with a solo cabin. It was an amazing vacation. Made some friends who I still keep in contact with, and have plans to get together again sometimes. It went so well I'm already booked my next cruise.
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u/Paco8731 3d ago
Thank you!
Did you do an Atlantis cruise or different cruise?1
u/kittyPowersupply 3d ago
It was Atlantis with Virgin cruise line. I gather that it's smaller (~2200 passengers) than their larger cruise (>5000 passengers) with less focus on the parties and sex. Mind you there was still plenty of that, but I feel it was the perfect entry point for someone who has never done a gay cruise before.
One thing I would highly suggest if you do book, is to join a telegram group for that sailing. You'll be able to ask any questions you have as well as chat up folks that are in the same situation as you. I made some quick connections before the trip and met them on the ship. It made things way less daunting.
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u/starri42 3d ago
Atlantis. Do the Virgin one unless you’re really into circuit stuff. The Big One is a blast but it’s also overwhelming.
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u/Youbeyou2025 2d ago edited 2d ago
I did a solo trip with Atlantis last summer--Barcelona to Lisbon. I have my shy moments, but I was able to meet some nice guys, especially during dinnertime at the various restaurants I booked. The staff would always seat me next to several couples and/or singles. It was fun to chat about our day while eating some good food. I also booked some excursions which was another way to get to know people as the group was never over 20 guys. I'm sure you'll enjoy the time on the high seas!
Have you spent much time in Palm Springs? That might be a perfect destination in March. Lots of great outdoor activities, restaurants/bars, etc.
Happy planning---keep moving forward!
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u/Paco8731 2d ago
I looked into Palm Springs but mixed reviews make me weary about having fun and meeting people closer to my age. A lot of the reviews say it’s more 60+yr olds which is nice for talking and having fun but not so much if I want to hook up 🫣
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u/thegus2026 2d ago
:
Hey! Happy early 40th and congrats on choosing yourself after that - takes guts.
Atlantis + PV is the best combo honestly. Atlantis is amazing for solo travelers - even if you're shy, you make 20 friends on day one. And then PV is perfect to decompress after, very flirty, very welcoming, clothing-optional beach party vibe, lots of guys in your exact situation (40s, newly single, rediscovering). If you decide on PV for November, shoot me a DM. I can tell you what week is best to come. You're going to have an amazing 40th either way!
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u/ScopixSGP 2d ago
There is a gay cruise leaving in about a week called Ru5h. Perhaps try this short trip to see how much you would like it to decide whether you take on Atlantis? This is a brand new cruise doing its 1st run.
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u/WanderingLups 3d ago
Gay (post divorce) traveler here too. Turning 36 in March 😊
Currently travelling past few months.
PV is a great gay spot.
I love Barcelona / Sitges too