Telephone: 917-522-0985
Our Founders
Kelli Carpenter & Gregg Kaminsky
R Family Vacations was founded in 2003 by travel entrepreneur Kelli Carpenter and Gregg Kaminsky. The company was featured on HBO's Emmy-nominated documentary "All Aboard! ". The documentary was also shown at the Sundance Film Festival and was awarded a GLAAD award. Gregg and Kelli were given the "Lambda Legal Liberty award" and have also been honored by Family Equality Council and the NY Gay Men's Chorus. They have also been selected as members of the "OUT 100".
They recently added two new types of travel to their exciting line up including another Broadway Cruise and new adult only adventures. More than 19,000 guests have traveled with R Family and both Gregg and Kelli hope that many more will join them in the years to come.
Kelli Carpenter
Kelli Carpenter has always loved musical theater and travel. She sailed on a cruise every year growing up with her family and in 2003 she co-founded R Family Vacations with her business partner Gregg. Her family was featured in HBO's "All Aboard" and Kelli was nominated for an Emmy as one of the producers.
She was also featured on ABC's 20/20. Kelli has an extensive background in marketing working for both Pepsi and Nickelodeon.
Kelli is a graduate of Southern Methodist University.
Gregg Kaminsky
Gregg Kaminsky has been in the travel industry for the past 20 years creating specialty vacations in Mexico, Caribbean, Africa, Australia, Europe and the U.S.
Formerly the Vice President of Atlantis Events, the world's largest gay tour operator, he co-founded R Family Vacations in 2003 helping create the first company to offer vacations for LGBT families and friends. R Family Vacations was featured on HBO's "All Aboard!" which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and won a GLAAD award.
He also serves as a travel consultant for Nickelodeon and has produced five cruise charters with SpongeBob and Dora.
Gregg holds a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas and earned his MBA from the University of Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can we help you with?
Do I have to have kids to come on one of your vacations?
Nope! Our vacations are created with everyone in mind. Kids are welcome on most vacations but they are not a requirement. The kids have their very own activities and entertainment planned just for them. Our evening entertainment is created for adults (although kids are welcome to most shows). Many passengers choose R family for the relaxed atmosphere with less emphasis on all-night dance parties.
How do you make a reservation?
To make your reservation, email us at info@rfamilyvacations.com or call our office at 917-522-0895. Deposits are due at time of booking. Each vacation has its own payment schedule and cancellation policy.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. You are welcome to pick any plan and you may want to contact the companies to see what is covered on the various plans that are offered. Travel Insurance is not required but again, recommended. We can add travel insurance to both of our cruise vacations when you reserve.
Will I need a passport to travel?
For cruises and international resorts, you will need a valid passport. Wonder Valley Ranch does not require documentation because it is in the US. (Non-US citizens will need proper identification to travel to the US)
What does the price include?
Our cruises are basically all-inclusive. Your cruise price covers accommodations, entertainment, kid's program (4-17) and food (served 24 hours a day).
What is not included on my vacation?
The following are not included in your fare: airfare, transportation to/from airport and ship, alcoholic beverages and carbonated soft drinks, spa treatments, indoor pool relaxation areas, certain specialty exercise classes, laundry/dry cleaning, babysitting, photographs, casino, shore excursions, ship-to-shore phone, e-mail, Internet, fax, medical services, and travel insurance.
What do I do if I have special dietary requirements?
Please contact our office prior to sailing and we will inform the ship or resort. The ship or resort will let us know exactly how they will accommodate your special needs.
What payment methods are accepted?
You may purchase your cruise vacation using American Express, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation fees for cruise/camp reservations will be assessed depending on the date of cancellation, as noted in the Cancellation Fee Schedule on each vacation web page and will apply to all guests on the reservation. Cancellations must be made by email to gregg@rfamilyvacations.com The amount of the cancellation fees assessed will depend on the date of cancellation, as stated in the Cancellation Fee Schedule. A change in reservation, but not a total cancellation, such as a stateroom category downgrade, may result in fees being assessed.
No refunds will be made in the event of interruption or cancellation by any passenger after commencement of the vacation. Reservations that are not paid in full by the final payment due date are subject to cancellation and in the event a reservation is canceled, a cancellation fee will apply.
No refunds will be given for vacation no-shows.
What is the next step after I make my reservation online and pay in full?
Approximately 4-6 weeks before the vacation date, you will receive an e-mail containing all of the necessary information to prepare for your upcoming trip.
Are there travel restrictions for pregnant women and/or infants?
Women entering the 24th week of pregnancy or later will not be permitted to sail on a cruise. Infants under 6 months of age will not be permitted to sail.