The 2026 Mr Gay Europe competition will take place on an all-LGBTQ+ cruise, offering a vibrant nine-day experience across three countries, in partnership with travel company VACAYA.
In a landmark collaboration announced by Mr Gay Europe, the sixteenth edition of the annual event in late summer 2026 will take place during an all-LGBTQ+ VACAYA cruise.
The event, which spans nine days and stretches across three countries and two continents, aims to blend the festive atmosphere of an LGBTQ+ cruise with the challenges that define the Mr Gay Europe competition. Attendees will not only enjoy onboard festivities but will also get extensive opportunities to familiarize themselves with the finalists through various activities and engagements.
Randle Roper, Co-founder and CEO of VACAYA, expressed his excitement about the partnership by stating, “To say we’re thrilled to partner with Mr Gay Europe on this groundbreaking Med Cruise would be an understatement. This will be an epic adventure for all involved, with a couple of super exciting twists along the way. Stay tuned for more details next month!”
Tore Aasheim, Co-founder and President of Mr Gay Europe, echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the natural synergy between the two brands. “From the moment I first heard about VACAYA, I thought it would be amazing to collaborate with such a concept. The Mr Gay Europe team is thrilled and excited to partner with VACAYA, and summer 2026 cannot come soon enough.”
Mr Gay Europe himself, Tim Küsters, will hold a significant role during the event, focusing on his ongoing campaign to improve mental health and suicide prevention within the LGBTQ+ community. “I am really pleased to have VACAYA on board for this special 16th edition of Mr Gay Europe,” Küsters told reporters. “As I continue my journey to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, I look forward to welcoming the new finalists in 2026 and hearing their stories. By the end of the nine-day cruise, we will know who will take over the title and become Europe’s LGBTQ+ ambassador.”
Prior to the 2026 event, the 2025 edition of Mr Gay Europe will return to Norway. Additionally, a special All-Star final featuring former participants will take place during that year. Winners of this All-Star event will earn the honour of presenting during the 2026 cruise.
The official launch of the cruise event is planned for September, with additional details to be revealed. For more information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official websites at www.myvacaya.com and www.mrgayeurope.com.
