IBC on a CRUISE SHIP?!!?
YES.
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It's OFFICIAL - the IBC Balcony Bears Bash Cruise!! Need something to do between IBC 2027 and 2028? Get ready to board the brand-new Brilliant Lady and tear up the Pacific with a ship full of handsome, fun-loving bears with International Bear Convergence Palm Springs fully on board bringing that unmistakable energy of IBC on a ship heading to Cabo (with an OVERNIGHT STAY!) and Puerto Vallarta, which many of you are familiar with for bear-friendly outings.
We’re sailing out of Los Angeles October 9-16, 2027 for seven nights of heat, mischief, and Mexican magic calling your name. And if you’re an LA local? Please — this one launches from your backyard. Step on, gear up, and let the adventure start the moment you hit the port. And what's an IBC without your favorite resident photographers?? That's right -- StockyFotos, who you know and love from IBC will be on board with us capturing all your memories on this inaugural IBC Cruise! While you're here, might as well get your IBC 2027 Run Passes as well! CLICK HERE to go to IBC's website. |
Just hit the button above and look for the "Register Today!" button on the right side!
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
Adult-Only FUN.
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There’s a reason we chose Virgin Voyages for the IBC Cruise. With an adults-only atmosphere, included WiFi for every sailor, no extra charges for specialty dining, incredible food, and a relaxed, judgment-free vibe, Virgin creates the kind of environment where you can actually unwind, connect, and be yourself. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, grabbing late-night bites with new friends, enjoying world-class entertainment, or simply soaking up the ocean with fellow bears and admirers, this isn’t just a cruise ship, it’s the perfect floating home for our community.
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Connected Balcony Parties
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For those who choose to be part of the adjoining balconies, we invite you into one of the most social and connected ways to experience the IBC Cruise.
Book a Sea Terrace (TR balcony category) to access our connected balcony setup. With adjoining balconies, the energy moves effortlessly from space to space—your room becomes part of a larger “balcony block” along the ship side, where IBC bears and friends can mingle, connect, and enjoy the voyage together right from the comfort of your own staterooms. And just as importantly, this is entirely optional—so please let us know if you’d like to be included in the adjoining open balcony arrangement so we can place you accordingly. When it’s time to unwind, simply slide your door closed and draw your curtain (if you prefer) and enjoy your own private retreat. It’s the best of both worlds: a lively, connected social experience when you want it, and complete comfort and privacy whenever you don’t. |
IBC-Exclusive Events
You must book with the group in order to enjoy all the exclusive events we will be offering, including:
- 15% OFF TC/TR Sea Terrace (balcony) Cabins if booked 150+ days from sailing!
- $100 Sailor Loot (onboard credit) if booking directly into a TC/TR cabin!
- 15% OFF TC/TR Sea Terrace (balcony) Cabins if booked 150+ days from sailing!
- $100 Sailor Loot (onboard credit) if booking directly into a TC/TR cabin!
Exclusive Gatherings
Your IBC Balcony Bears Bash experience includes access to special group gatherings throughout the trip — from pre-cruise meetups in the LA/Long Beach area to post-cruise hangouts after we return home. It’s a great way to connect with fellow bears and friends before, during, and after the voyage. And of course, you’ll have full access to the signature Balcony Bears Bash parties, where the connected balconies transform into a one-of-a-kind social space filled with themed fun, mingling, and unforgettable late-night memories at sea. |
Group Dining
One of the best perks of sailing with IBC is the shared dining experience! On two evenings, our group will come together for a big hosted dinner, giving everyone a chance to relax, connect, and enjoy the fun together over great food and conversation. Best of all, we’ll handle the reservations and coordination for you — just show up, grab a seat, and enjoy the night. |
Onboard & Port Activities
There’s always something happening with the group! Enjoy coordinated onboard activities like board game gatherings, casual happy hours, themed bar meetups and takeovers, and plenty of opportunities to socialize throughout the cruise. When we’re in port, you can also join fellow IBC cruisers for optional shore excursions and adventures, making it easy to explore, relax, and create memories together both on the ship and ashore. |
Just hit the button above and look for the "Register Today!" button on the right side!
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
Every sailing with Virgin Voyages turns into its own floating nightlife experience, with themed parties that keep the energy shifting all week long. The crown jewel is Scarlet Night, where the entire ship transforms into a red-lit celebration that builds into an unforgettable, ship-wide deck party. And the energy throughout the ship is INSANE! Make sure to bring your best RED getup. We've often seen bears wearing their best red leather/harness fits. Often times, Virgin will also throw the famous Pajama Party, a relaxed late-night vibe where guests show up in sleepwear, silk sets, or anything cozy-chic and dance like it’s a private after-hours lounge. For a touch of glamour, We Fancy invites everyone to dress up and lean into elevated, fashion-forward nightlife energy - so make sure to bring something fancy (cocktail, glam, chic). Depending on the sailing, you may also catch rotating themes like throwback 80s/90s nights, white parties, genre or destination-inspired DJ sets, and other surprise pop-up parties that keep each voyage feeling fresh, unexpected, and a little bit electric.
Prices Starting at just $1166* per person!
AND, if you book early, ALL Sea Terrace and Central Sea Terrace Cabins (the balconies with hammocks) are 15% off!
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*double occupancy inside cabin, includes taxes and group event fee, base rate subject to increase closer to sail date
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Click "Book Now!!" below to see more cabin options and rates!
(prices subject to change)
(prices subject to change)
Inside Cabin
From $1,166 per person
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Sea View Cabin
From $1,480 per person
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Sea Terrace (Balcony Cabin). 15% OFF!!!
From $1,435 per person or $1,494 (Central Sea Terrace) per person
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Virgin Voyages now has multiple pricing plans for each category. We price our groups under the Essential pricing plan. If you are interested in the Base or Premium pricing plan, please let us know at the time of booking and we can make this adjustment for you. Our prices also include the IBC/CruisingBears Event fee which gives you access to all the private parties and exclusive events with all your cruisers from IBC!!
A block of TR Balconies will be connected so that our group can stay together and bears are free to roam at night.
WHATS NOT INCLUDED
Daily Gratuity: This gratuity is for the room steward, dining staff and all the people behind the scenes that make the magic happen! You can pre-pay this gratuity at a discount ($20 per person per day) and we add this charge for you when you book into our groups so there's nothing additional to pay at the end of the cruise!
Alcohol: We recommend getting a Bar Tab. You can pre-pay a $300 Bar Tab and get $50 FREE. Drinks are reasonably priced on Virgin Voyages but you will pay by the drink on the ship. Basic drinks like soda, still and sparkling water, drip coffee and non-pressed juices are included.
Basic WIFI is included but if you need faster speed for streaming or video calls, you'll need to purchase a Premium WIFI package.
A block of TR Balconies will be connected so that our group can stay together and bears are free to roam at night.
WHATS NOT INCLUDED
Daily Gratuity: This gratuity is for the room steward, dining staff and all the people behind the scenes that make the magic happen! You can pre-pay this gratuity at a discount ($20 per person per day) and we add this charge for you when you book into our groups so there's nothing additional to pay at the end of the cruise!
Alcohol: We recommend getting a Bar Tab. You can pre-pay a $300 Bar Tab and get $50 FREE. Drinks are reasonably priced on Virgin Voyages but you will pay by the drink on the ship. Basic drinks like soda, still and sparkling water, drip coffee and non-pressed juices are included.
Basic WIFI is included but if you need faster speed for streaming or video calls, you'll need to purchase a Premium WIFI package.
Just hit the button above and look for the "Register Today!" button on the right side!
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
October 9-16, 2027 - Los Angeles to Mexico
Los Angeles, Cabo (overnight!), Puerto Vallarta
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Just hit the button above and look for the "Register Today!" button on the right side!
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join the parties and book direct or with my own travel agent?
Unfortunately, No. To be included in our pre cruise events, exclusive onboard events, shore excursions & other activities will require you make your reservation with OUT Voyages/IBC. Our prices also include the IBC CruisingBears Event fee which gives you access to all the private parties and exclusive events with all your cruisers from IBC!!
These events are organized with the cruiseline and other vendors and an accurate count of attendees is determined by the reservations inside of the group.
These events are organized with the cruiseline and other vendors and an accurate count of attendees is determined by the reservations inside of the group.
I have already booked. Can I transfer my reservation to the group?
In some situations, Yes! If you haven't paid in full and your reservation was made less than 30 days ago, we are able to transfer your reservation into our group. Contact us for details on the process.
Is this an all gay cruise?
Not quite—and that’s actually part of what makes it special.
This isn’t a full-ship charter like those hosted by Atlantis Events. Instead, we’re bringing together a large, social, and very intentional group of gay bear travelers within a regular cruise. Think of it less like a takeover… and more like having your own built-in community from the moment you step onboard.
You’ll have access to all the perks of a major cruise—multiple dining options, entertainment, excursions, and space to explore--plus our curated group experience layered on top. That means organized meetups, group dinners, themed hangouts, and plenty of opportunities to connect without feeling overwhelmed.
The vibe? Social when you want it, relaxed when you don’t. You can spend all day with the group, or slip away for a quiet moment and recharge—it’s entirely up to you.
For a lot of our guests, this ends up being the perfect balance: a fun, welcoming bear community and the freedom to enjoy the cruise your own way.
This isn’t a full-ship charter like those hosted by Atlantis Events. Instead, we’re bringing together a large, social, and very intentional group of gay bear travelers within a regular cruise. Think of it less like a takeover… and more like having your own built-in community from the moment you step onboard.
You’ll have access to all the perks of a major cruise—multiple dining options, entertainment, excursions, and space to explore--plus our curated group experience layered on top. That means organized meetups, group dinners, themed hangouts, and plenty of opportunities to connect without feeling overwhelmed.
The vibe? Social when you want it, relaxed when you don’t. You can spend all day with the group, or slip away for a quiet moment and recharge—it’s entirely up to you.
For a lot of our guests, this ends up being the perfect balance: a fun, welcoming bear community and the freedom to enjoy the cruise your own way.
What if I need to cancel?
If one or more persons cancel, the rate(s) for remaining occupants may increase. Should your booking be canceled after initial payment, cancellation fees may apply. In addition, you are subject to cruise line cancellation fees. All taxes and government fees contained herein are subject to change at any time. The cruise line may cancel your cruise should final payment not be received by due date. You may protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances for covered reasons when you purchase our Travel Protection. Cancellation policy may vary by category. Register online and inquire for full details.
Virgin Voyages deposit is only refundable if cancelled within 7 days of making the deposit. Afterwards, the deposit is held as a future cruise credit.
Penalties for cancellation are from the day of travel.
119-91 Days - 25% Penalty
90-61 Days - 50% Penalty
60-31 Days - 75% Penalty
30 days or less is 100% Penalty
Virgin Voyages deposit is only refundable if cancelled within 7 days of making the deposit. Afterwards, the deposit is held as a future cruise credit.
Penalties for cancellation are from the day of travel.
119-91 Days - 25% Penalty
90-61 Days - 50% Penalty
60-31 Days - 75% Penalty
30 days or less is 100% Penalty
Is this cruise right for me?
Embarking on a cruise adventure might seem daunting, especially for individuals in our community, who might have concerns related to various factors such as size, solo travel, or feeling at ease in a diverse environment. We understand these concerns, and we want to assure you that cruises are an enjoyable and hassle-free way to travel.
Cruises are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Whether you relish unwinding by the pool, exploring new destinations, cavorting exquisite cuisine or participating in onboard activities, there is a cruise experience tailored just for you.
Moreover, with our group, you won't just be a passenger; you'll be among friends. Our group values the camaraderie of the community, the activities we organize, the ample opportunities for socializing, and the friendly atmosphere that define our cruises.
Cruises are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Whether you relish unwinding by the pool, exploring new destinations, cavorting exquisite cuisine or participating in onboard activities, there is a cruise experience tailored just for you.
Moreover, with our group, you won't just be a passenger; you'll be among friends. Our group values the camaraderie of the community, the activities we organize, the ample opportunities for socializing, and the friendly atmosphere that define our cruises.
Can I cruise by myself?
Absolutely! Cruising is ideal for people traveling solo, because it's so easy to meet other people. In fact, most ships have parties just for singles early on, so you can start to be involved right away. There are two ways to travel as a solo:
- Some ships also have single cabins (request pricing as we cannot hold this space with a constant price). The price you pay is based on the market price at the time of booking with the cruise line.
- Single Supplement for double staterooms. Yes, you'll pay for two people but you get double the space! Taxes for the second person are waived and the price is stable, based on our advertised group rate.
Will I get my Virgin Voyages loyalty points and status perks?
YES! As a member of our group you will earn loyalty points with Virgin Voyages and receive any perks you are due based on their Latitudes program at the time of sailing.
Who is organizing this cruise?
This cruise is a collaboration between OUT Voyages and MJ & Team Dream Vacations sponsored by International Bear Convergence Palm Springs (IBC).
OUT Voyages is your host for this experience—curating the vibe, organizing group events, and bringing together a fun, social community (with a special focus on our bear crowd). From themed gatherings to onboard connections, we’re here to make sure this feels like more than just a trip—it’s a shared experience. OUT Voyages are also StockyFotos, with over 10 years of involvement in the gay bear community—producing events, creating spaces for connection, and capturing the energy that makes this community so special. That same spirit carries into everything we’re building onboard.
Behind the scenes, MJ & Team Dream Vacations brings over 10 years of expertise in LGBT+ group travel. As certified members of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, they’ve hosted unforgettable journeys across Europe, Alaska, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. They handle the travel logistics, booking support, and overall coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Together, it’s the best of both worlds: a thoughtfully curated group experience, backed by a trusted and experienced travel team.
OUT Voyages is your host for this experience—curating the vibe, organizing group events, and bringing together a fun, social community (with a special focus on our bear crowd). From themed gatherings to onboard connections, we’re here to make sure this feels like more than just a trip—it’s a shared experience. OUT Voyages are also StockyFotos, with over 10 years of involvement in the gay bear community—producing events, creating spaces for connection, and capturing the energy that makes this community so special. That same spirit carries into everything we’re building onboard.
Behind the scenes, MJ & Team Dream Vacations brings over 10 years of expertise in LGBT+ group travel. As certified members of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, they’ve hosted unforgettable journeys across Europe, Alaska, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. They handle the travel logistics, booking support, and overall coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Together, it’s the best of both worlds: a thoughtfully curated group experience, backed by a trusted and experienced travel team.
What if i'm a traVELER outside of the united states?
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get your registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
Just hit the button above and look for the "Register Today!" button on the right side!
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
If you're a traveler outside of the United States, please fill out this form and we will get you registered on our side.
This form is also available on the Registration Page (on the top right, just above the cabin types/rates list)
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OUT Voyages - [email protected] - 818.925.5210
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