Why I Created "The Sanctuary Sailing": An LGBTQIA+ Holiday

Did you know that studies from LGBTQ+ advocacy and mental health organizations consistently show that over 60% of queer adults report heightened feelings of loneliness, stress, or isolation during the winter holiday season?

When December rolls around, society pushes a very specific narrative of cozy homecomings, traditional rituals, and family gatherings. But for so many in our community, that picture-perfect narrative doesn't fit—and honestly, it can hurt.

I created The Sanctuary Sailing because I know how exhausting the holidays can be when you are expected to shrink yourself to fit into environments that don't affirm who you are. Far too often, LGBTQIA+ people are deliberately locked out of family circles during the holidays. Others hit a stage in life where closest friends have moved across the country or drifted into different life orbits. On top of that, many of us simply don't practice Christianity or subscribe to traditional holiday dogma, making the seasonal noise feel alienating rather than joyful.

Why should you spend your precious time off feeling sidelined or invisible?

You deserve to be celebrated, surrounded by chosen family, and completely relaxed. That is why we are taking to the open ocean: to build our own sanctuary where you can step onto the deck, feel the warm Caribbean breeze, and know that every single person around you sees and values you for who you are.

The Cruise Details: Sunshine, Luxury, & Chosen Family

We are sailing onboard Virgin Voyages’ award-winning, adults-only ship, the Scarlet Lady, for a 5-night Caribbean reset packed with world-class dining, immersive entertainment, and zero forced holiday clichés.

• Sailing Dates: December 21 – December 26, 2026
• Departure Port: Miami, Florida
• Destination Highlights: Breathtaking turquoise waters and ancient Mayan culture in Cozumel, Mexico, with relaxing days at sea.
• Featured Accommodations: We have secured group rates for the signature Sea Terrace Balcony Stateroom—featuring a private balcony complete with Virgin’s iconic hand-woven red hammock.
  • Single Occupancy: $1,849
  • Double Occupancy: $2,070

Exclusive Group Perks Included

• Private Welcome Meet & Greet: An intimate gathering to break the ice and build connections before we leave port.
• $50 Bar Tab: Compliments of the cruise to spend on specialty cocktails, cold press juices, or wine.
• $50 Post-Cruise Rebate: A direct cash-back thank you sent from our agency following the voyage.

Ready to Join Us? Here is How to Reserve

If you are ready to trade traditional holiday stress for ocean breezes and chosen family, securing your stateroom is simple and straightforward:

1. Visit the Sanctuary Cruise Page (Under 2 minutes)
   • Head over to our official page at The Sanctuary Sailing to review full ship amenities and itinerary specifics.
2. Submit Your Reservation Request (Direct or Phone)
   • Click the reservation request button on the page or contact our agency directly at 888-271-1815 to choose your single or double occupancy Sea Terrace stateroom.
3. Lock In Your Perks (Deposit required)
   • Place your deposit to hold your stateroom and secure both your $50 Bar Tab and $50 agency rebate.

Make this holiday season one to remember: Swap cold weather and uncomfortable family obligations for warm sunshine, luxury, and a community that accepts you exactly as you are.