SOUTHAMPTON'S Queen Mary 2 has been specially chartered for the first ever transatlantic voyage for gay men and lesbians only.

The world's biggest passenger liner, with up to 2,620 gay travellers on board, is due to leave New York for the six-day crossing to Southampton in May next year.

A number of cruise ships, mainly operating in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, have previously been used solely by gay holidaymakers but never before, due to the charter of QM2, the largest and most expensive liner ever built, has there been such a high-profile voyage of this type.

The all-gay cruise reflects today's more open and tolerant society and the growing importance of the so-called "pink pound".

Paul Figlmiller, president of the American based specialist gay travel company, RSVP Vacations, said he had chartered the prestigious Cunard liner because: "Gays and lesbians can now have civil unions in the UK and we want to support the UK for making that happen."

Not only will the passengers enjoy QM2's sumptuous surroundings, including ten restaurants, a grand ballroom, spa and gymnasium, but a special programme of events and entertainment will also be organised.

"We are working on an entertainment line-up of performers who will complement the luxurious living on board," said Mr Figlmiller, who has booked every one of the liner's 1,310 staterooms.

"In addition to elegant parties and theatre, there will also be talks from gay artists and authors who will share their work with passengers, and a heritage trail blending Cunard's past with the gay and lesbian events of the times."

Passengers will also be able to take part in a series of gay events in New York before the ship departs on May 29 as well as celebrations and tours after QM2's arrival on June 4.

Jeff Soukup, executive vice-president and chief operating officer of PlanetOut Inc, parent company of RSVP, said: "The QM2 charter provides an opportunity for gay men and lesbians to experience luxury in a completely safe environment.

"The concept of taking the most luxurious ship in the world and being able to charter it with a group of your friends and feel totally comfortable is just great.

"It is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip that takes the best the straight world can offer and makes it even better."