Atlantis cruises is back this summer with an LGBTQ+ cruise through the Mediterranean that you won’t want to miss. The odyssey starts in Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, travels through Mykonos, Greece, Bodrum, Turkey, Messina, Sicily, and Naples and Capri, Italy. From there, it heads to Ajaccio, Corsica, then back to Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. In all Italian cruise destinations, Quiiky, the Italian LGBTQ+ tour operator, has created unique LGBTQ+ tours to give you a taste of LGBTQ+ culture and history while ashore. Find out more at Quiiky.com/en.
Sidenote: Wondering if cruises are safe during a global pandemic? Read US-based queer publication Out Traveler‘s recent feature that declares, Yes, A Gay Cruise Company CAN Keep Guests Safe Amid a Pandemic.
Here are 6 onshore excursions to experience while journeying with the Atlantis cruise this summer:
See the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel in a Gay Light
August 20, 2022 | Book from €130
This is not your average tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. LGBTQ+ tour guides give you the hidden LGBTQ+ history housed inside these famous halls. Stand in awe of Michelangelo’s masterpieces, and bask in the beauty of Raphael Sanzio’s “The Parnasus”, which features the poet Sappho. You’ll hear the story of Pope Julius III and his infamous young lover, Innocenzo del Monte. All this before discovering the epic love story between Emperor Adrian and Antonius. So much queer history right before your eyes.
Learn About Homosexuality in Ancient Rome
August 21, 2022 | Book from €120
This tour focuses on the LGBTQ+ untold history of ancient Rome, including the Colosseum and the Palatine Fora. You’ll hear a historic narration about the lifestyle of a Roman soldier, including his sexual habits and military rules by which he lived. Hear how Emperor Augustus prohibited his troops from marrying or engaging in relationships that might divide their loyalty to him and the empire, only permitting sex with prostitutes and slaves. Be enthralled in front of the Arch of Constantine before reaching the Imperial Fora the Circus Maximus and the Palatine Hill. Finally, you’ll visit the legendary Pantheon, viewing the famous architecture from a queer perspective.
Queer Art and Architecture in Messina & Taormine
August 27, 2022 | Book from €270
Experience the stunning towns of Taormine and Messina, just a short drive from your Sicily port. Taormine is known as the “nest” of many gay artists in the 19th century, including renowned photographer and art collector Wilhelm Von Gloeden. You’ll explore the city’s cathedral, the Greek theater the Odeon, and their museum of fine art. You’ll spend time on the beach of Isola Bella, then head to Messina, where you’ll see the famous Neptune Fountain, and enjoy Italy’s best pizza and signature dishes.
Explore Capri and Anacapri’s Gay History
August 28, 2022 | Book from €290
When the ship docks in Naples, you’ll meet your LGBTQ+ guide and other guests to hop on a hydrofoil boat to the island of Capri, one of the most enchanting spots in the Mediterranean. You’ll get a guided tour of Villa Lysis and learn about it’s storied LGBTQ+ history. You’ll relax on Capri’s beaches and visit it’s top boutiques. You’ll island hop to Anacapri to get a breathtaking view of the sea and explore the Villa San Michele, now the museum of the doctor Axel Munthe.
Enjoy Leisure, Sun, and Good Food in the Amalfi Coast
August 28, 2022 | Book from €320
From the Naples port, meet your LGBTQ+ driver, guide, and professional sommelier, Daniele, who will take you up the coast to discover Ravello, a tiny village near Amalfi. You’ll visit spots like VIlla Cimbrone or Villa Rufolo, spend time unwinding on the beach, or snorkeling in the crystal clear blue waters. You’ll enjoy a lunch at Borbara, visit an old local winery, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal with traditional cuisine.
Discover the Untold History of Pompeii and Naples
August 28, 2022 | Book from €270
Get an inside look at Ancient Greek and Roman culture with this untold history tour of Pompeii and Naples. From the Naples port, you’ll meet a driver and head to Pompeii, the city frozen in stone after the Vesuvius eruption in 79 A.D. You’ll explore ruins, villas, streets, and thermal baths adorned with queer history. You’ll spend the afternoon in Naples at the Archeological Museum to learn about the ancient’s depiction of the beautiful body.
Visit Quiiky.com/en to learn more.
