The Love Boat occasionally featured characters and plotlines that subtly hinted at or involved non-heterosexual identities, often for comedic effect or to explore themes of companionship. While these depictions were rare and lacked explicit affirmation, they generally avoided overt ridicule, resulting in a neutral overall impact.

The Love Boat featured an episode in 1980 with Pat, a transsexual woman, seeking acceptance from her son. While Pat is depicted with dignity and the story resolves with her son's acceptance, the narrative primarily frames her identity as a source of conflict for others to overcome. The portrayal avoids strong denigration but also lacks a deeply affirming stance, making its net impact neutral.

The show occasionally features Christian elements, such as weddings officiated by ministers or characters who are clergy. These portrayals are consistently respectful and sympathetic, aligning with the show's generally lighthearted and affirming tone. The narrative presents Christian faith and practices as a benign and accepted part of life, without critique or negative stereotyping.