A ship full of gays will sail from New Zealand to Sydney just in time for the Mardi Gras Parade and Party next year as the lavish Atlantis Cruise returns to our shores – and it’s already sold out.

“Three years ago we launched the very first gay cruise to Sydney Mardi Gras, and Atlantis is proud to return onboard the exquisite 5-star Oosterdam as we sail from Auckland to Sydney,” say the sea-faring crew.

“From the awe-inspiring natural wonders of New Zealand to the cosmopolitan charm of Melbourne, there’s no better way to see more of these two great nations. And it all culminates with a dramatic arrival into Sydney for an overnight celebration during the finale of Mardi Gras!”

After stopping in Melbourne overnight following a Kiwi adventure, the full-to-capacity ship will arrive in Sydney at 8am on the day of the Parade and Party – Saturday 2nd March 2013.

By all accounts it’s an amazing vessel, featuring restaurants, huge pools, a fitness centre, theatre, piano bar, casino and a wide variety of entertainment options. See more about the cruise here.

The all-gay Atlantis crew were involved in controversy recently when two of its passengers were arrested after being spotted having sex on a balcony in full view of a Carribean wharf.