voyagerx

We have been to Grand Cayman several times. After reading of the government's refusal to allow docking of and all-gay cruise we decided our strategy for our subsequent visits. We do gointo town and visit the shops. We look at things that interest us and allow the sales clerks to take as much time as they choose to try to sell us the item(s). Then we politely inform the clerk and, if possible, the manager why would not consider purchasing anything on the island, until they do something to reduce the institutionalized homophobia. We feel that it is important to let the islanders know that there is price to be paid for their actions and attitudes. Staying on board does deprive the businesses of income, but they are not aware of it, unless a letter is sent to the Chamber of Commerce, which rarely happens. I know we do somewhat support the island with the port fees, but why allow one port to prevent us from taking a cruise to other places we wish to visit? This is like having our cake and eating it too.

Blatant good living is the best revenge.

My partner and I have been on 8 HAL cruises and have never felt discriminated against or uncomfortable with other passengers or crew. They always have a FOD however, except for the shorter cruises (one to two weeks), the number of gay passengers is very small. On a recent 10 week Australia, New Zealand cruise there were about a dozen of us, a very high number for this length cruise. On a world cruise a couple of years ago there were only about 4 others gays. Also, because as mentioned by others on this thread, on the longer cruises the passengers are mostly 50-90 some of these gays (it is not very difficult to spot them) are very closeted and do not want to mix with other gays. As if no one is going to figure them out! I love the spaciousness of the newer HAL ships and the food, especially on Grand Voyages, is extremely good, though not truly gourmet. I would not worry about your treatment on HAL. BTW, we always request, in writing, a FOD gathering on the day we board and carry with us a copy of a letter from the President of the line affirming FOD gatherings; just in case we run into a homophobic CD. We never have on HAL. Bon voyage!