Splash of Pride is a new queer-centric group sailing on Virgin Voyage’s Valiant Lady. We’re building upon the best of what Virgin Voyages has to offer, but adding well, a Splash of Pride!

Splash of Pride is this the most fabulous sailing of the year!

Splash of Pride centers around celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride for everyone in the community, and in the spirit of pride, we welcome our allies, including friends and family.

Keep in mind that Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line, so all sailors must be 18 years and over to join us.

If you are an ally, please be mindful that our Splash of Pride events intentionally center around LGBTQ+ folx, and we ask you to be respectful of one another.

Virgin Voyages is an elevated, luxury cruise line strongly committed to inclusivity and diversity.  Making sure all sailors feel welcomed aboard and wherever they travel, Virgin Voyages has become the most LGBTQ+-friendly cruise line in the industry.

Yes, this is a group trip and not a charter. Virgin Voyages attracts an extremely diverse array of sailors that are there to have a good time.

Splash of Pride is not a charter. It’s a group sailing on the existing Fire & Sunset Soireés itinerary embarking at Miami on Wednesday, June 12th, 2024.

You can read more about this itinerary on Virgin Voyages website.

While we love a good party, Splash of Pride is not a circuit party or circuit-like festival. We’re offering something different for those who love a good time but are looking for a different vibe.

Don't worry if you still want to get your party on. Virgin Voyages is famously known for its parties onboard and at the Beach Club at Bimini. Plus, Splash of Pride brings you an exclusive Sunset Cocktail party onboard and another exclusive party at Aqua Bar & Nightclub in Key West complete with drag shows, vendors from local queer-owned small businesses, and plenty of dancing–obvi.

Yes, you can purchase an access pass here.

No, and we strongly suggest arriving the day before to avoid any unforseen delays. Bestmates has partners with several area hotels if you'd like to book with us.

You must be onboard by 5pm, no exceptions.
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If you must arrive the same day as embarkation, your flight should arrive by 12p. Disembarkation is from 7a-11a, but book your return flight after 12p to be safe.

Bar Tab is an onboard credit that can be used for any premium drinks such as alcohol, fresh pressed juices, smoothies, and non-drip coffee.
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Sailor Loot is onboard credit for anything (including drinks). You can go shopping, book a spa treatment, take a cooking class, and more.

Miami & Key West are diverse, liberal communities with a large population that identifies LGBT. In addtion, Virgin Voyages attracts a LGBT crowd and is a safe space.
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See Equality Florida's stance below, an organization that a portion of our event fees will be donated to to keep up the fight against hate and discrimination.
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“As an organization that has spent decades working to improve Florida’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive place to live work and visit, it is with great sadness that we must respond to those asking if it is safe to travel to Florida or remain in the state as the laws strip away basic rights and freedoms,” said Nadine Smith, Equality Florida Executive Director. “While losing conferences, and top students who have written off Florida threatens lasting damage to our state, it is most heartbreaking to hear from parents who are selling their homes and moving because school censorship, book bans and health care restrictions have made their home state less safe for their children. We understand everyone must weigh the risks and decide what is best for their safety, but whether you stay away, leave or remain we ask that you join us in countering these relentless attacks.  Help reimagine and build a Florida that is truly safe for and open to all, and where freedom is a reality, not a hollow campaign slogan.”

You may choose to pay at least 20% upfront as a deposit, with the remainder due 6/30/2024. Affirm financing is also available.
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Cancel or change the booking up to 120 days prior to sailing for a refund, except the deposit which will be a future voyage credit valid up to 1 year.
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Cancel or change the booking up to 45 days prior to sailing for a future voyage credit valid up to 1 year.
Name changes accepted up to 48 hours prior to sailing.
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To avoid missing any deadlines, contact your travel advisor at least 2 days before embarkation or contact Sailor Services directly.

Sounds like someone spilled the tea! It's true, you can get yourself a free cabin, if you can rally your gaggle of friends, friends of friends, past tricks, or anyone else, really. We want this ship bursting with queerness along with our fellow allies, so we've set up a program for anyone to earn a free cabin! More information →

Bestmates helps queer people connect with the world and the greater queer community through travel. Through working with us, clients can discover unique travel experiences, get personalized trip planning, and are given expert advice and support for the best queer-friendly destinations around the world.

Bestmates is a partnership with Randy Marsden, Omar Gonzalez, and Peter Pasco.