no kid cruises

Come aboard our adults-only cruises for a kids-free getaway at sea.

Kids are wonderful… just not when they’re running around a pool deck..

Children are one of life’s great joys, but on Virgin Voyages, we believe absence makes the heart grow fonder, especially while on a cruise vacation. That’s why, despite the fact that our adult only cruise ships are a playground for your inner child, we’ve chosen to curate an adults-only cruise experience.

Why We're the Best Cruise Line for Adults

Whether you choose to jumpstart the morning with a wheatgrass shot from Gym & Tonic or a Filthy Mary from The Red Bar, you can trust that any path you take will remain unobstructed by little feet. We’re proud of our design-forward eateries and bars and we created them specifically for adults, either for mingling with like-minded adventurers or for cozying up and reconnecting with the person you came aboard with. On top of the spaces themselves being kid-free havens, the menu items served within may also be a little advanced for the average tyke. Between hibachi crudo and filets at The Wake, carpaccio and truffle pasta at Extra Virgin, and mezcal pairings at Pink Agave, we keep our food and drink offerings mature and unexpected. And the best part? Dining is included in your voyage fare.

Fun Cruises for All Adult Lifestyles

The adults only lifestyle continues whenever we dock, with pages of Shore Things excursions tailored to sophisticated tastes in sight-seeing and cuisine in every port, whether you're a first time cruiser, traveling solo, or bringing the love on a couples cruise . While we know every child has a spark of genius, we don’t know many who’d be riveted by (or at least not get restless on) a medieval heritage tour through the white-stoned streets of Dubrovnik. From artisan honey-making in Ajaccio to sampling craft brews in Zeebrugge, every Virgin destination from A to Z boasts activities best enjoyed by those 18 and up.

Luxuries and Pleasures, All Designed for Adults

Once you’re back on the ship after a day of exploration, award-winning entertainment options will reinforce the wisdom of leaving the kids at home . We’re more “Romeo and Juliet reimagined in a circus” than themed character dinners, if you will; more immersive cabaret than 7 pm movie and jammies. But let’s be clear, being an adult means you vacation however you want, whenever you want. So if being in bed by 7 pm is your idea of the perfect evening, we encourage that.

And with free, reliable Wi-Fi available everywhere on our cruise ships, you’re just a video call away from any little ones you may have left on land, whether for a good night story, or a good night kiss. 

All Adult Cruise Experience

There you have it: our case for remaining an adult-only cruise experience . Aboard a Virgin Voyage , you can stretch out Lagoon-side with a drink in one hand and a book in the other (how many pages you’ve read is none of our business) without fear of a rogue cannonball spoiling the relaxation. According to Josh Rivera, Consumer Travel Editor for the USA Today, "It feels like an upscale PlayPlace for adults. In the best way possible. Different from other lines, Virgin’s vibe was engaging, and knowing that passengers were all there without kids, all looking to have a good time , changed the atmosphere."

2024 & 2025 Adult Cruise Vacations

Be sure to checkout our 2024 adult cruises, and 2025 cruises for adults , the possibilities are endless with over 100 dreamy destinations to select from. Set sail and enjoy  Caribbean cruises filled with sun, sand, and sea , or discover unforgettable Europe Cruises filled with scenic beauty and rich history . Take advantage of 2024 cruise deals, some with drink packages to enhance your vacation fun!

Ready to plan your dream adults-only vacation? Make it reality.

Adult Friendly Cruise

Related articles, adult-by-design: 18+ adults only cruises by virgin voyages, so, what makes our cruise casino so special, virgin voyages says no kids on the ocean. and the kids aren’t pleased..

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14 Best Adults-only Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These expert-approved cruise lines are perfect for your next adults-only getaway.

Adults-only Cruise Lines

Cruise lines geared toward adults.

Olivier Blaud

If you’re planning a kid-free trip, consider embarking on a cruise — yes, really. Sure, there are plenty of cruise ships teeming with waterslides and over-the-top offerings like laser tag, go-karts, and escape rooms, but they aren’t the only option. While only a few cruise lines are exclusively adults-only, there are a handful of others that are geared toward grown-ups — and only grown-ups — thanks to a lack of kids clubs, activities, and other programming that would typically attract families. 

Ultimately, when it comes to selecting your adults-only cruise, options abound. “A question often asked is, ‘What is the best cruise line for only adults?’” explains T+L A-list travel advisor Eric Goldring . “But, alas, the question is much simpler than the answer!” Moreover, he explains, “Adults, like cruise lines, come in all different varieties.” With that in mind, we’ve rounded up 14 of our favorite cruise lines for adults — from high-energy, party-centric Virgin Voyages to more traditional small-ship luxury options like Seabourn and Silversea — plus several hand-picked expert recommendations.

Meet the Expert

Eric Goldring is a T+L A-list travel advisor specializing in expedition, small-ship, and medium-ship cruising. 

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Ashton Palmer is a Seattle-based T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Expedition Trips.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is one of few explicitly adults-only cruise lines. Guests, called Sailors, must be 18 or older. According to T+L A-List travel advisor Rob Clabbers of Q Cruise + Travel in Chicago, Virgin Voyages is “quite different from a typical cruise line” and is an especially “great fit for young-at-heart travelers” who “like a bit of local culture with their beach and aren’t looking for white-glove service or standard cruise experiences.” Sailors can choose from a range of different itineraries, including four- to eight-night Caribbean sailings, seven-night Europe voyages, and three- to 11-night Australia and South Pacific cruises.

Virgin Voyages ships are also unique in that they lack traditional dining rooms and buffets, instead offering 20-plus eclectic drinking and dining venues — or, as Clabbers says, what “most other cruise lines would consider ‘specialty restaurants.’” Elizabeth Rhodes , T+L’s special projects editor, set sail on a Virgin Voyages ship with her sister in 2022 and was blown away by the onboard bars and restaurants. “Our favorite restaurants included Pink Agave, a Mexican restaurant decked out in sophisticated navy and pink tones; Gunbae, a Korean barbecue spot where meals start with a funny drinking game; and The Wake, a beautiful, glitzy restaurant serving steak and seafood with incredible ocean views,” she wrote in a piece detailing her Virgin Voyages girls trip .

Additionally, per Clabbers, the entertainment offerings are best described as “atypical and engaging” and include pool parties, private karaoke studios, and drag queen cabaret. Of course, we’d also be remiss not to mention the onboard tattoo parlors, aptly called Squid Ink. 

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

According to Clabbers, Viking “features the world’s largest fleet of river cruise ships, as well as very popular 930-passenger ocean ships and two true expedition vessels that explore the polar regions and the Great Lakes.” The line does not allow children under 18 on any of the ships — and there are also “no casinos, umbrella drinks, inside staterooms [even the most standard cabins offer private verandas], or photography sales, art auctions, or other nickel-and-diming that unfortunately is a given on many large-ship mainstream cruise lines.” What’s more, with its sleek Scandinavian-inspired interiors and refined ambiance, the line is especially popular with mature cruisers, says Clabbers. He continues, telling T+L, “The self-styled ‘Thinking Person’s Cruise,’ Viking focuses on allowing guests to immerse themselves in a destination with an included excursion each day and onboard enrichment.” 

Also, while Viking cruises aren’t exactly budget-friendly, they offer plenty of added value. Fares include Wi-Fi; one shore excursion in each port of call; port taxes and fees; access to the onboard Nordic Spa; beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner; specialty dining (which the line calls “alternative restaurant dining”); and 24-hour room service.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is a British line that’s especially popular with — you guessed it — U.K.-based cruisers. P&O has a total of seven ships, five of which are family-friendly and two —  Aurora and Arcadia — that are only for adults. 

The 1,874-passenger Aurora is the line’s smallest ship and offers a more intimate feel. There are three pools and 19 bars and restaurants. Entertainment offerings include a theater, a cinema, a library, an art gallery, a card room, and a lounge where cruisers can catch cabaret performances, discos, quiz shows, and more. Aurora offers a breadth of itineraries ranging from lengthy world cruises to four- and five-night “Short Breaks,” sailing round-trip from Southampton to nearby European cities like Amsterdam, Hamburg, and Zeebrugge. Aurora also sails to the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, and North America. The 2,388-passenger Arcadia is a bit larger; however, it has fewer pools (two compared to three) and bars and restaurants (15 compared to 19).  While Arcadia also lacks a card room and a lounge, it does boast The Globe in its place, which offers movie screenings, art auctions, cabaret shows, live music, and more. Arcadia offers similar itineraries to her smaller sister ship, sans world cruises.

Saga Cruises

Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images for Saga Cruises

British line Saga Cruises specifically caterers to passengers 50 and older (however, travelers can bring along companions as young as 40). The line offers two ocean ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery , which have all-balcony staterooms for up to 987 passengers. Both vessels depart from either Dover or Portsmouth in England and offer itineraries through Europe — including the Canary Islands and the Azores — as well as West Africa, the Caribbean, Central America, Canada, and New England. Saga also offers river cruises on sister ships Spirit of the Danube and Spirit of the Rhine. Its newest ship, Spirit of the Douro, will debut in 2024. (The line also charters several other river vessels throughout the year.) 

All Saga cruise fares are all-inclusive of meals, Wi-Fi, unlimited beverages (including alcohol), gratuities, excursions, spa access, and more. At sea, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service, listen in on lectures from guest speakers, and catch live music and entertainment. 

Explora Journeys

Courtesy of Explora Cruises

Explora Journeys debuted its flagship vessel, Explora I , in summer 2023, and its identical sister ship, Explora II , is set to launch in summer 2024. Despite being new to the scene, it’s already one of Goldring’s favorite adult-oriented cruise lines since it offers a “luxury resort experience.” While the line does have connecting suites, a small children’s room, and select programming for multigenerational families , Goldring tells T+L that “Explora is very much geared [toward] adults.”

The elegant, all-suite accommodations are a highlight, as is the ocean-inspired wellness center. The culinary programming is also top-notch, with six onboard restaurants — including the Med Yacht Club for tasty Mediterranean dishes, the ritzy Marble & Co. Grill for steaks and chops, and the breezy-chic Emporium Marketplace for all-day international fare — all helmed by a team of acclaimed chefs. Passengers can sip cocktails in style at one of 12 tony bars and lounges (eight indoor, four outdoor). The line offers a range of activities, including book clubs, guided meditations, mixology classes, coffee tastings, courses on destination-themed crafts, and live jazz. There is also special programming for solo travelers and sober cruisers . Alternatively, travelers can opt to bypass all of the above to soak up the sun by one of several sparkling swimming pools or peruse some of the uber-luxe onboard shops, including the world’s first Rolex boutique at sea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silver Sea Cruises

Adults craving a traditional luxury cruise experience should consider sailing with Silversea Cruises . While the line does not explicitly exclude children, it’s rare to find few — if any — on board, given the lack of kid-friendly programming. Per Goldring, this small-ship luxury line is one of few to still have formal nights on board. With that in mind, it makes sense that Silversea offers “a more refined, somewhat formal, service and dining experience.” Seattle-based T+L A-List travel advisor Ashton Palmer of Expedition Trips echoes these sentiments. “Silversea offers guests looking for uncompromised luxury and creative expeditionary itineraries the opportunity to be pampered while cruising some of the most remote destinations.”

As part of said pampering, all guests enjoy suite accommodations, butler service, complimentary alcoholic beverages, and gourmet dining. S.A.L.T. Bar, Kitchen, and Laboratory — found aboard Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, Silver Nova, and Silver Ray — features locally sourced ingredients and cuisine for a true taste of the destination. Culinary connoisseurs on board one of these four ships can enjoy food-focused culinary excursions (think: a visit to a working organic farm in Paros, a vineyard tour in Wales, pasta-making in Sicily, and so on). Similarly, it's worth mentioning that shore excursions, lectures, gratuities, and private transfers are also included in the cruise fare. Lastly, says Palmer, “With multiple vessels traveling throughout the globe, there are trips to suit every individual.” 

Windstar Cruises

Courtesy of Windstar

“While not strictly adults-only, another line adults should consider when traveling without children is Windstar ,” says Clabbers. While the line technically welcomes all travelers ages nine and above, he explains that “the intimate size of its yachts means that the experience is really best suited for adults (couples and single adult travelers) who appreciate the romance of being on a ship with sails, or a spacious suite-only motor yacht.” The pro is also quick to highlight the vessels’ small size, which makes it easier to access less-visited ports such as Montserrat in the Caribbean and the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. 

Additionally, although the ships are undoubtedly swanky, Goldring tells T+L that the onboard experience is best described as “casual luxury.” What’s more, he says, ”There is a wonderfully casual atmosphere with an emphasis on being out on deck and enjoying the marina and all its toys coupled with excellent cuisine and service.” Like Silversea, Windstar also offers world-class dining thanks to a partnership with the James Beard Foundation. Culinary-themed shore excursions and chef-led market tours in various ports of call are also available. Finally, while you won’t find water slides or video game rooms on board, Clabbers says passengers can let their inner child out on select Tahiti, Mediterranean, or Caribbean sailings thanks to the “water sports platform with snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and water trampolines.”

Courtesy of Seabourn Venture Cruises

Between its fleet of seven small ships — none carrying more than 600 passengers — luxury line Seabourn cruises all seven continents. Among its fleet are two state-of-the-art expedition vessels, Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture , which, per Palmer, “take luxury-focused exploration to the next level” by offering the “perfect combination of luxury and adventure.” As such, guests will enjoy “multiple dining venues ranging from fine dining to casual bistro, a comprehensive spa, and a world-class expedition program that includes submarines for exploring below the surface.” The five ocean ships are just as opulent. Most staterooms have private verandas, and all dining venues are included — as are premium spirits, fine wines, and caviar. 

Seabourn also offers a slew of signature events that vary depending on the itinerary, all free of charge. Fan favorites include Caviar in the Surf (in which staff members plunge into the water and invite guests in to wade and enjoy Champagne and caviar from the surfboard bar — followed by a BBQ feast, water sports, and music); Marina Day (featuring free water sports launched directly from the retractable marina platform), the Polar Plunge (in which guests can dive into the frigid Arctic waters or watch others partake in the event), and Caviar on the Ice (caviar and tartare service with a side of epic glacial views.) 

“French-owned Ponant is an ultra-luxe small-ship line that presents luxury-forward expeditions to some of the most remote destinations on Earth,” says Palmer. The line boasts an impressive fleet of 12 ships, including the cutting-edge Le Commandant Charcot . According to the pro, the vessel “boasts five-star luxury amenities and dining options, including a tasting restaurant by renowned French chef Alain Ducasse.” He continues, telling T+L, “For guests who want to sip Veuve Clicquot and savor caviar while traversing the North Pole or sit fireside while exploring Antarctica’s Southern Ocean, this is the perfect adult-oriented vessel.” 

In addition to polar expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica, the line offers tropical voyages to South and Central America, Oceania and the Pacific Islands, and Africa and the Indian Ocean. Non-expedition sailings are also available and feature ports of call like Madagascar, Bequia Island in the Caribbean, and Kanazawa in Japan. Finally, while Le Commandant Charcot is certainly impressive, don’t sleep on the line’s other ships, either. Among them is the three-masted, 16-cabin Le Ponant , which is specially designed for cruising the Polynesian waters. 

Regent Seven Seas

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas is yet another small-ship luxury line geared toward grown-ups. While not explicitly adults-only — there are some child-friendly activities — it’s rare to spot little ones on board unless you’re cruising to popular destinations like Alaska or the Mediterranean in the summer months (when school’s out). With that in mind, those who opt for multi-week or months-long itineraries, including Grand Voyages , can most likely expect a kid-free sailing. 

Well-heeled couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends with a taste for the finer things in life will especially enjoy a Regent cruise. Lavish touches — from glittering chandeliers to sumptuous suites, to thousands of square feet of marble — can be found throughout its fleet. Perhaps the best part about cruising with Regent is its all-inclusive fares, which fold airfare, unlimited shore excursions, two- or three-night land programs, a pre-cruise hotel stay, unlimited beverages, open bars and lounges, gratuities, specialty dining, airport and ship transfers, W-Fi, and more into one flat fee.

Related: Regent Seven Seas Grandeur Ship Review

Crystal , which is now part of the A&K Travel Group, made its grand (re)debut in the summer of 2023 after a years-long hiatus — and the line has long been a favorite among luxury-loving adult travelers. Both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity have undergone multimillion-dollar refurbishments and are sure to impress. Highlights include all-suite staterooms (all of which include butler service), gourmet specialty dining (including the first and only Nobu at sea), and adult-oriented entertainment (which runs the gamut from stand-up comedy to Broadway-caliber productions). Guests can also sit in on lectures, attend Computer University@Sea to learn more about the Internet and social media, play pickleball, or read one of the 2,000-plus books in the onboard library. 

No sailing is complete without at least one visit to the state-of-the-art Aurōra spa, which offers everything from Dysport injections and IV treatments to acupuncture and salt scrubs. Crystal currently sails six continents (all but Antarctica), and, although you can’t go wrong with any of the itineraries, the 123-night 2025 World Cruise — which visits 62 ports in 31 countries — is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara offers a fleet of four small-to-medium-sized ships that can accommodate up to 702 guests. While not officially adults-only, the line does not provide any kid’s programming, so families are few and far between on board. Instead, you’ll find mostly older couples (think: 50 and up). The ambiance is best described as serene and sophisticated, sans any stuffiness. 

Additionally, Azamara designs its itineraries to maximize time off the ship, so it’s common for sailings to offer late-night stays or even overnights in ports. Cruisers can also enjoy local-led shore excursions.  

Back on board, travelers can sip cocktails and unwind in one of the bars and lounges, retreat to their contemporary staterooms, unwind at the spa, and tuck into a meal at one of six eateries. There’s a handful of onboard entertainment offerings, including live shows and music, plus the line’s signature White Night, where guests can eat, drink, and let loose in their best white outfits. 

Courtesy of Uniworld Cruises

River cruise line Uniworld is a favorite amongst mature couples and groups for its wide variety of itineraries throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Think of each ship in the Uniworld fleet as a floating boutique hotel that’s distinctively designed to reflect the destinations that they sail. This — combined with the high staff-to-guest ratio and all-inclusive luxury offerings — only adds to the appeal. Once on board, guests enjoy suite accommodations complete with butler service, as well as meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from specific ports of call. 

Off the ship, travelers can choose from a selection of complimentary and premium excursions that range from private after-hours tours to hiking and more. Alternatively, guests are welcome to explore on their own with bikes and Nordic walking sticks (free). In addition to the above, Uniworld cruise fares include all onboard meals, unlimited wine and spirits, gratuities, wellness classes, airport transfers, and Wi-Fi. One quick note: While the line technically allows guests older than four, you (most likely) won’t find them — unless, that is, you book one of the Generations sailings, which are specifically designed for multigenerational families.  

Swan Hellenic  

Courtesy of Swan Hellenic

While this small expedition line — known for its off-the-beaten-path voyages — technically allows guests over eight years old, it’s quite rare to see any children on board since there are no kids clubs. While most famous for its Antarctica and Arctic itineraries, the line also offers itineraries through Central America, Mexico, Peru, Southwest Africa, and the Chilean Fjords. The sailings, while pricey, include regional return flights to the port of embarkation and/or disembarkation, group transfers from the airport to the ship, a one-night pre-cruise stay, all meals onboard, 24-hour room service, onboard lectures, one excursion per port of call, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and select alcoholic beverages. Its fleet of three small ships offers elegant accommodations, dining options, and common areas. Take in the panoramic vistas from the sauna or heated Jacuzzi, or get up close and personal via Zodiac. The line’s new Explore & Restore program, created in partnership with Chopra, helmed by the renowned Dr. Deepak Chopra, is centered around well-being. Grown-ups can enjoy wellness-centric offerings like Ayurveda-inspired meals, expert-guided workshops, and daily meditation.

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Discover Adults-Only Cruises for the Ultimate Child-Free Getaway

The ultimate guide to adults-only cruises for a tranquil escape.

For those who’ve endured a vacation where children commandeered the pools, elevators, and every nook and cranny, the appeal of an adults-only cruise is clear. It’s about savoring a peaceful retreat with sophisticated entertainment and activities tailored to adult preferences, whether that means more educational lectures or nightlife that’s more vibrant and mature.

When considering a vacation without the kids, adult travelers might find an adults-only or adults-oriented cruise to be an appealing option. Some cruise lines offer fully adult-only experiences, while others provide adult-focused venues and activities onboard to cater to adult travelers.

Choosing an Adults-Only cruise

The options for cruises that strictly prohibit kids are limited, but there are select cruise lines dedicated to ensuring your voyage is child-free. This guide shines a spotlight on the best adults-only cruises , where the vibe is unquestionably grown-up.

We’ve also included information on cruise lines that make an effort to have exclusive adult areas where it’s possible to enjoy a nearly child-free experience.

Adult Only Cruise Lines include:

• Virgin Voyages
• P&O (select ships)

Planning an Adult Cruise – Tips and Insights

• Consider the length and destination of the cruise; longer trips outside of school vacation periods generally mean fewer children.
• Upscale cruise lines tend to attract an older demographic, leading to a more adult-oriented atmosphere with few or no kids onboard
• Research charter and lifestyle cruises for adult options
• Consider unique itineraries that may not cater to young families such as Transatlantic crossings and repositioning cruises.
• Check the cruise line’s policy on age restrictions before booking. 

Top Adults-Only Cruise Lines

Virgin voyages: nearly all-inclusive adult-only cruises & a new wave of adult sophistication & entertainment ..

Virgin Group’s introduction to the cruising world, Virgin Voyages, is designed for the 18+ crowd. With a mission to craft a modern and sophisticated experience, Virgin Voyages offers ships like the Scarlet Lady , along with its sister ships Valiant Lady , Resilient Lady, and soon the Brilliant Lady, that cater to adults seeking a slice of high-energy fun and modern indulgence.

• Read : Everything to know about Virgin Voyages before you go!

The contemporary aesthetic and modern amenities set the stage for an unforgettable cruise – free from splashing children! Virgin Voyages is celebrated for its dynamic nightlife and entertainment, offering an alternative to traditional cruise shows with edgy, festival-like performances. Highlights include the Scarlet Night, a dazzling dance party, and the PJ Party, where guests can groove the night away in cozy pajamas.

These ships also include unique attractions like drag performances, tattoo parlors, and private karaoke rooms, but purposefully lack family-centric amenities such as waterslides and splash zones.

Virgin Voyages really has carved out a unique niche making adults-only cruises both fun and affordable when considering other adult options.

With a minimum age requirement of 18, every aspect of their ships is designed with adult enjoyment in mind. 

I think Virgin Voyages is the best adult-only cruise line because of the all-inclusive rates, diversity, and great food!

Virgin Caters to : Young & Young at heart (minimum age 18) Destinations : Caribbean (with stops at their private port in Bimini); Europe; South Pacific; Transatlantic Amenities : All dining venues included; complimentary fitness classes; free Wi-Fi; included tips; extensive nightlife and entertainment options, all free of charge

Viking: A Haven of enrichment for mature, well-heeled travelers

Viking has long been synonymous with adult-only cruising. Since its ocean division’s launch in 2015, Viking has consistently maintained an all-adult policy. Its river cruises have also followed suit, appealing to travelers who crave intellectual stimulation and cultural immersion.

Targeted at a bit older demographic, Viking offers a refined cruising experience with an emphasis on enrichment through onboard lectures, history- and culture-focused excursions, and classic entertainment like string quartets. Don’t let the target demographic concern you, however. Cruisers in their 20s, 30s, and beyond will enjoy a laid-back experience, sans kids.

Viking Ocean Cruises welcomes travelers 18 and older aboard luxurious ships with destination-focused itineraries around the world, offering comfortable accommodations and special access to curated experiences.

Viking Caters to: Couples 40+ Destinations : Europe; Caribbean; Asia; Australia; Antarctica; Arctic; world voyages Amenities : Industry-leading Nordic Spa, free for all guests; beer and wine at lunch and dinner; all dining options complimentary; included tour in each port; free Wi-Fi; amazing Scandinavian design

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P&O Cruises: A uniquely British experience at sea

P&O Cruises offers a dual approach with some ships catering to families while others are exclusively for adults. The Arcadia and Aurora are their adult-only vessels, promising a distinctly British experience complete with afternoon teas, traditional deck games, and British culinary delights by renowned chefs like Marco Pierre White.

While P&O has listened to the market and offering adult-only experiences, it’s not the higher end quality you may get from the other all-adult cruise lines previously mentioned.

Saga Cruises: Exclusivity for the Experienced

Saga Cruises sets itself apart by setting its minimum age at 50 years old. This British line focuses on creating an environment suited to baby boomers and beyond, offering ocean and river cruises that depart solely from the UK for those seeking a mature and refined travel experience.

Saga Caters to : Mature cruisers (Minimum age of 50) Destinations : Baltics; British Isles; Canaries; Norway; Iceland/Greenland; Caribbean; Americas Amenities : All balcony cabins; included thermal suite; included gratuities; free Wi-Fi; all meals and drinks, including premium spirits; travel insurance; private chauffeur transfers (within the UK)

Hapag-Lloyd (Hanseatic Spirit) : Expeditions for adults only

The “Hanseatic Spirit” is an expedition ship that emphasizes features that enable unique itineraries and activities, like zodiacs for shore landings, specialized equipment for exploring remote areas, and onboard experts like authors and historians. These aspects cater to clients looking for educational and immersive experiences. The Spirit is also adults-only by design and is the first all-adult cruise ship in the Hapag-Lloyd pleasure cruise fleet.

A little know British cruise brand: Ambassador Cruise Line

This brand is known for affordable cruises with itineraries as basic as 3-day British Isles tours to 76-day Brazil, Australia, and Africa itineraries. Ambassador Cruise Lines specifically states that all passengers must be 18+ at the time of boarding. I’ve never known anyone to try Ambassador, but we’re considering it so we better understand the brand!

Adult-focused cruising options, where Adults-Only Is by Happenstance

Beyond the dedicated adult-only lines, several other cruise brands offer a mature atmosphere by virtue of their upscale nature, longer itineraries, price points, and fewer young passengers. Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Azamara, Silversea Cruises, Oceana, Seabourn, and Windstar Cruises are examples where the clientele skews a little older with ships that aren’t built with amenities that cater to children.

The cruises not only feel more adult only because of their demographic, but they simply lack kid-focused activities making it downright boring for parents to bring their children. For that reason, these cruise lines end up being mostly (and often all) adults by default. 

Additionally, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours suggests against bringing children under 12 except during holiday voyages. Remember that longer cruises to exotic locations during school months will also likely feature fewer children on board.

A “near adult” experience is Azamara Cruises 

Azamara invites a more sophisticated traveler to enjoy an intimate cruising environment, however, without specific age restrictions. This cruise line distinguishes itself by calling on smaller ports, offering longer stays, and providing more opportunities for overnight exploration. Azamara’s approach enhances the immersion into local cultures and maximizes destination engagement. With a wealth of shore excursions and sumptuous onboard amenities, Azamara masterfully blends discovery with relaxation. There are rarely children on these cruises. However, during school holidays, there are maybe a couple of families onboard.

Oceana Cruises: Another amazing almost all-adult cruise experience

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Oceania Cruises welcomes adults with its sophisticated offerings and elegant atmosphere. While not exclusively adults-only, Oceania’s amenities and itineraries are tailored to the tastes of discerning adult travelers. Known as The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, Oceania’s culinary program features dishes crafted by master chefs to satisfy gourmet appetites. Engage in enriching onboard activities, surrender to blissful spa treatments, and partake in cultural shore excursions for an enriching and luxurious cruise experience.

For a classic cruise with few or no kids, look at Cunard

Cunard and the most well-known Ocean Liner, Queen Mary 2, are often child-free. The nature of the cruises, being transatlantic doesn’t cater to families or kids. The cruise line doesn’t prohibit children or even discourage kids, but the reality is that there are usually none or very few.

I’ve done many transatlantic crossings on the Queen Mary 2 and have only seen one or two kids on the ships. For all intents and purposes, Cunard with their itineraries and more formal environment doesn’t cater to younger passengers.

For what it’s worth, the few times I have been on a Cunard ship where children have been present, they’ve always been very well-behaved and well-mannered! That can’t be said for many cruise experiences that cater to families! 🙂

Consider a river cruise for an adult-only cruise vacation

River cruises tend to cater to adults and have few, if any child-friendly activities. Because of their long, specialized itineraries, River cruises rarely have children.

Charters like LGBT cruises & Themed Cruises will be for adults

Charter groups that book entire trips for a theme are often designed for adults only including groups like Atlantis Events for LGBT+ or Bliss lifestyle cruises for swingers . There are charters of all types from music-based to adult-themed, there’s something for everyone!

When an all-adult cruise isn’t an option, but you want some peace and adult quiet Onboard

There may be a circumstance when an adult-only cruise isn’t an option. Most major cruise lines have started listening to passengers who want to remove themselves from spaces where kids may be gathering in abundance.

Norwegian Cruise Line Posh, Vibe & Spice H20

NCL has created adult-only areas across much of its fleet and is adding spaces to older ships during refits.

Adult spaces include Posh Beach Club and Spice H20 on the Norwegian Epic or Vibe and Spice H20 aboard the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, and Norwegian Bliss.

Spice H20 offers an adults-only lounge space, positioned on Deck 15 of the Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, and Norwegian Getaway, and on Deck 17 of the Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Bliss. By day, it’s a peaceful haven featuring hot tubs, loungers, and a calming waterfall. However, come nightfall, the area transforms into a lively, open-air nightclub.

The exclusive Posh Beach Club on Norwegian Epic is accessible via a private glass elevator. This Mediterranean-inspired zone boasts plush daybeds, a fully stocked bar, refreshing water spritzers, cool towels, and delicious fruit skewers.

On the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, and Norwegian Bliss, you’ll find the Vibe Beach Club. This spot echoes the offerings of Posh with stunning sea views, a large hot tub, and comfortable chaise loungers, ensuring a luxurious experience akin to that at Posh, complete with similar amenities.

TIP : These adult spaces are normally offered at a daily charge and have limited space available. On popular itineraries, especially in the Caribbean, these passes sell fast. Expect to pay $300 for the use of Vibe or Posh for a week.

Perks for Adults on NCL : Choice sun decks for the over-18 crowd; studio cabins for solo cruisers; Haven complex provides secluded spaces; large fitness centers (must be 16+); casinos (must be 18+); late-night entertainment like Howl at the Moon piano bar plus cocktail lounges and wine bars aplenty

Destinations : Alaska; Bahamas; Caribbean; Europe; Canada/New England; Hawaii; South Pacific Amenities : Shows straight from Broadway and West End included in the fare; adult-focused restaurants including Onda by Scarpetta and Le Bistro; deck parties; waterfront dining on select ships

Celebrity Cruises Solarium

widely recognized as a family-friendly option, curates exclusive spaces for adults seeking solitude on the sea. The Solarium is a peaceful oasis within the ship featuring pools, loungers, and a bar dedicated to tranquility. The Retreat space is another option. While it’s not only for adults, by its nature with upscale suites, it’s not typical to see many, if any, children in the Retreat area.

While children are welcome on Celebrity Cruises , their in-room babysitting services and youth programs ensure that adults can enjoy moments of undisturbed calm.

Princess Cruises “Sanctuary”

The Sanctuary on Princess Cruises strikes a balance between family-inclusive features and adult-oriented spaces. The Sanctuary is an adult-exclusive outdoor retreat offering plush loungers and private cabanas serviced with attentive care. For families cruising with children, Princess provides group babysitting at Camp Discovery for younger kids and a Teen Lounge for adolescents that remains open in port.

Access to The Sanctuary incurs an additional charge. Guests have the option of selecting half-day or full-day passes. While there is a small fee for using personal Evian misters, complimentary spritzes are provided intermittently throughout the day by the Sanctuary stewards. Beverages from The Sanctuary’s menu are available for an extra charge, typically lower than prices at the ship’s other bars. Snacks are complimentary, but a modest fee is applied for food delivery services.

Royal Caribbean Solarium

The Solarium experience differs across ships. Adults can find solace in areas designated as minors-free, such as certain pools, spas, and evening venues.

Generally, guests enjoy free access to comfortable padded loungers, hot tubs, and wading pools, all set in a tranquil environment reserved for those 16 years and older. Conveniently situated within the Solarium is a bar and dining area, allowing you to relax in this serene oasis without having to step away for meals. The Solarium Bistro, featuring complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner, delights with a Mediterranean touch.

On the Symphony of the Seas, you’ll be captivated by the “Big Wonder” art installation. This impressive piece enhances the Solarium with its unique blend of ambient sound and lighting, contributing to a truly mesmerizing experience.

Carnival Cruise Line Serenity Retreat

Carnival is generally a budget-friendly choice that ensures enjoyment for all family members. While children engage in age-specific activities through Carnival’s youth programs, adults can head to the Serenity Retreat—an over-21 sanctuary where hammocks sway and an exclusive bar awaits. A daily fee may be charged depending on the ship.

Ready for Your Adult Sea Escape?

Embarking on an adults-only cruise can offer an unparalleled sense of tranquility and relaxation. With these recommendations and insights from our cruise experts, you’re well-equipped to select the perfect child-free or NEAR child-free voyage that caters to your desire for peace, enrichment, and adult-centric fun.

• Best Adults-Only Luxury Cruise: Viking Cruises
• Best Adults-Only Cruise For Older Couples: Saga Cruises
• Best Adults-Only Cruise For Single Adults: Virgin Voyages
• Best Adults-Focused Luxury Cruise: Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Best Adults-Focused All-Inclusive Cruise: Seabourn Cruise Line
• Best Adults-Focused Cruise For Younger Adults: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Best Adults-Focused Cruise For Adults Who Want Alone Time: Windstar Cruises

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4 Best Adult-Only Cruises for 2024

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Adult-only cruises are rapidly gaining popularity for those seeking a peaceful getaway. While traditional cruises cater extensively to families, resulting in bustling, child-filled environments, an emerging trend offers a serene, kid-free alternative.

As major cruise lines like Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian focus on family-friendly attractions, a select few, such as the renowned Virgin Voyages, are pioneering adult-only experiences. These cruises promise a tranquil vacation away from the high-energy atmosphere typical of family-oriented ships.

Table of Contents

Best Adult-Only Cruises

Here’s our list of five adult-only cruises for kid-free vacations:

Virgin Voyages

Viking ocean cruises, p&o cruises, saga cruises.

• U by Uniworld

Virgin Voyages is perfect for adults seeking an exhilarating and refined cruise experience. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate a modern, sophisticated approach to cruising, focusing on wellness, entertainment, and sustainable practices.

Virgin Voyages is a newer cruise line that’s redefining the adult cruising experience.

Virgin Voyages stands out with its “Adult-by-Design” concept. This means every voyage is an 18+ affair, ensuring a mature and sophisticated ambiance . Virgins’ adult-only policy caters to those seeking a tranquil getaway or a lively adventure without the presence of children.

The cruise line appeals to the adventurous spirit with its boundary-pushing offerings. From risque shows to wild nightlife, Virgin Voyages is not your typical cruise. It’s a haven for those seeking to party until dawn, with onboard activities and entertainment that push the envelope and ensure a memorable experience.

When I sailed on Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady cruise ship, I found their all-inclusive cruise fare greatly improved compared to traditional cruise lines. The Virgin Voyages cruise fare includes :

• Essential drinks
• Dining at all onboard restaurants
• Group fitness classes
• Onboard activities and entertainment

Virgin Voyages really shines when it comes to their dining offering. I found that Virgin offers the greatest dining experience of any cruise line. The food, service, and ambiance are far above other cruise lines.

The adult-only cruise line boasts over 20 unique eateries, ranging from upscale dining to casual, laid-back options, all without the extra charge. Each restaurant has a unique ambiance, with menus created by Micheline star chefs.

Wellness and fitness are at the heart of the Virgin Voyages experience.

The cruise line offers various fitness and wellness classes, catering to different interests and fitness levels. From yoga sessions at sunrise to high-energy group classes, there’s something to keep everyone energized and balanced.

Viking Ocean Cruises stands out as one of the premier cruise lines for adults, particularly appealing to a more mature demographic of 55 and older . Viking’s focus on older cruisers is evident in its offerings and cruise atmosphere. Viking Cruises offers a more refined experience, unlike Virgin’s party at sea.

Since its debut in 2015, the cruise line has enforced an 18+ age restriction, creating an environment tailored to adults without the presence of children. The adult-only cruise line policy extends across their 12-ship ocean cruise division and their 80-ship river cruise division.

Viking’s emphasis on enrichment is a significant draw for many adult travelers.

The cruise line offers an array of onboard lectures and learning opportunities designed to educate and engage passengers about various subjects, particularly those related to the destinations they visit. This educational aspect caters well to an older demographic that appreciates deeper insights into the cultures and histories of their travel destinations.

Viking Ocean Cruises offers itineraries focusing on destination-oriented tours highlighting the history and culture of each port. They offer at least one complimentary shore excursion in each port, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in local experiences without extra costs. Viking Cruises’ approach to shore excursions aligns with the interests of many adult travelers who seek more than just leisure and relaxation from their vacations.

The onboard entertainment on Viking cruises also differs significantly from what you might find on a typical cruise line. Instead of loud parties or youthful activities, Viking offers more sophisticated entertainment options , such as string quartets, which are more in line with the tastes of their target demographic.

With over 180 years of experience, P&O Cruises is the world’s oldest cruise line . The British cruise line offers a unique cruising experience that caters exceptionally well to adults, especially through its adult-only ships, the Aurora and Arcadia. The adult-only cruise ships are designed for travelers seeking a more serene and mature atmosphere, free from the hustle and bustle often associated with family cruising.

Passengers can enjoy various activities and amenities tailored to adult preferences. From sophisticated dining experiences featuring traditional British cuisine to incredible onboard entertainment options, these ships ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

P&O cruises adult-only ships also provide opportunities for enrichment through various lectures, workshops, and classes, appealing to the intellectual curiosity of adult passengers.

Additionally, the adult-only cruises offer thoughtfully crafted itineraries to appeal to adult interests. Whether it’s exploring historic cities, soaking in the beauty of natural landscapes, or indulging in cultural experiences, these itineraries are designed to provide enriching and memorable experiences at each destination.

It’s important to note that while P&O Cruises caters to a wide range of travelers with its family-friendly and adult-only ships, the adult-only cruises have received particular acclaim for providing a more refined and relaxed atmosphere. P&O Cruises adult-only ships are an excellent choice for adults seeking a cruise experience that prioritizes their preferences and comfort.

Saga Cruises has established itself as a premier choice for adult travelers. The minimum age to sail with Saga isn’t 18 or 21. It’s 50. The 50-year age limit ensures a more refined experience for mature adults.

One of the most notable features of Saga Cruises is its all-inclusive itineraries, ensuring guests enjoy a hassle-free vacation. The cruise line’s smaller vessels offer itineraries to exotic destinations like the Canary Islands, Greenland, Iceland, the Mediterranean, and the Adriatic. This variety caters to different interests, whether one is looking to explore historical sites or enjoy the natural beauty of remote destinations.

Saga’s attention to the needs of older travelers is also seen in their thoughtful services, such as the extended return chauffeur service , now available for up to 300 miles from the departure port. This service provides an added level of convenience, especially for those who may find extensive travel challenging.

Reviews from passengers highlight Saga’s commitment to quality and care, with many praising the attentive staff and the overall pleasant atmosphere on board. The cruise line excels in providing a comfortable and engaging environment, emphasizing excellent service and a range of activities suitable for their target demographic.

Saga Cruises’ focus on providing a refined and enjoyable experience for mature travelers, along with their range of destinations and quality service, makes them a top choice for adults seeking a cruise that caters specifically to their preferences and needs​

Other Adult-Focused Cruises

If the cruise lines on this list don’t pique your interest, you can find other brands that, while not specifically adult-only, have designed their ships and experiences for the adult demographic.

Luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas, Silver Sea, Seabourn, and Windstar Cruises allow children on their ships. However, these luxury cruise lines actively target the adult cruising market so that you won’t find nearly as many kids as with leading cruise lines.

And if you find yourself on a mainstream, family-focused cruise lines and need an adult-only space, most cruise lines have age-restricted sections on the ship.

Marcello De Lio

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Serenity Now: These Are the Cruise Lines Going Totally Kid-Free

A growing number of adults-only cruises are catering to travelers who prefer to vacation minus the munchkins..

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After making its river cruises adults only last month, Viking no longer allows kids on any of its vessels.

Courtesy of Viking River Cruises

As cruise lines create increasingly sophisticated options for families (read: go-kart tracks, extreme waterslides, and kid-focused tours and classes), several new and existing lines are going in the completely opposite direction. They’re instead focusing their efforts on adult passengers by instituting 18-and-over policies.

When Virgin Voyages launches the first of its three cruise ships in 2020—the 2,860-passenger Scarlet Lady —it will require that the kiddos stay ashore by instilling an adults-only policy onboard.

“Let’s face it, even parents could use a holiday from their little ones sometimes; to relax, order a glass of wine and dedicate all of their attention to the voyage at hand . . . sans the unpredictability of kids,” Virgin Voyages wrote in a statement on its site.

When Virgin Voyages launches its “Scarlet Lady” ocean vessel in 2020, no children will be allowed on board.

Courtest of Virgin Voyages

Last month, Viking Cruises took a similar stand against kids when its river cruise division introduced a new adults-only policy requiring all passengers booked on river cruises after August 1, 2018, to be at least 18 years of age at the time of sailing, making the entire line, including both river and ocean cruises, bona fide adults only. Previously, Viking’s minimum age on its river cruises had been 12, and Viking’s ocean cruises have had an adults-only policy since launching in 2015.

In truth, Viking hadn’t exactly been known as the river cruise line of choice for families and younger travelers so, according to the company, this was just a matter of making its adults-only reputation official.

“Viking has always offered experiences that are designed for travelers who are 50 and older . . . it’s what we’re known for. Increasingly our guests have told us how much they appreciate an environment where they can travel without children,” stated Viking’s senior vice president of marketing Richard Marnell. “In addition to marketing what Viking is, we believe our guests also appreciate knowing what Viking is not.”

But Viking wasn’t the first river cruise line to go adults only. Earlier this year, U by Uniworld was launched as an adults-only river cruise line with ships that feature rooftop lounge areas and itineraries that include activities such as pub crawls and silent disco parties—amenities for the “young at heart,” according to U by Uniworld, but definitely not for those younger than 18.

Passengers mingle in the lounge on The A, one of the two adult-only river cruise ships operated by U by Uniworld.

Courtesy of Uniworld

The no-kids approach is resonating with what travel experts say has been a growing number of passengers who prefer to travel totally children-free.

“There has been an increase in the demand for adult-only cruises,” said Nancy Yale, president of Virtuoso agency Cruise and World Travel.

Yale pointed out that a good number of passengers are seeking a quieter cruise experience and are more interested in cruise itineraries that offer more time to explore the actual ports, rather than having the focus be on over-the-top onboard amenities.

“Many people are requesting child-free sailings,” confirmed Michael Kempinski of Northstar Luxury Cruise & Travel Planners.

Kempinski said that while there currently aren’t any other ocean cruise lines besides Viking that are truly and totally kid-free (that will change when Virgin Voyages sets sail), there are several upscale and luxury ocean lines that don’t make courting kids a top priority, including Oceania Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Silversea—lines that often have a note in their kids policy section that they do not provide for the care, entertainment, or supervision of children or that have children’s programs during a very limited time of year, such as summer months or holiday periods. In other words, these are cruise lines where the percentage of kids on board is likely to be much lower than on very family-friendly cruise lines such as Disney and Norwegian Cruise Line.

In an environment where there appears to be more people seeking the serenity of a kids-free cruise, Viking’s move to go fully adults only is not that risky and may be a potential competitive advantage, according to Anthony Adler, president and CEO of Cruise & Resort, Inc.

“It is a point of differentiation from the larger lines that helps it stand out,” said Adler. “Giving potential passengers the knowledge that they will avoid screaming children around them might be the reason they choose Viking over one of its competing lines.”

>>Next: This Epic Around-the-World Cruise Takes You to 56 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Best Adult Only Cruises

• Honeymooners

In the last few decades, the cruise industry has ballooned into a multi-billion-dollar industry with nearly 30 million people going on cruises every year. It’s also gotten much more diverse than it used to be. You can find a cruise in pretty much every category nowadays, including families with kids , adventurers, foodies and luxury travelers . You can choose everything from room size and onboard facilities, to itineraries and even the general atmosphere of the cruise ship. And another new trend has emerged: adult only cruises .

Adult Only Cruises With No Kids

Virgin voyages, viking ocean cruises, u by uniworld, adult focused cruise options and amenities.

• Carnival Serenity Adult-Only Retreat

Silversea All-Inclusive Ultra-Luxury Cruises

Seabourn luxury cruises, windstar small ship cruises, oceania cruises, azamara luxury cruises.

100% Adult Only Cruise Lines

People who are looking for a relaxing and quiet cruise trip can now opt for adult only cruises. No more yelling children in the pool, or crying toddlers in the restaurants. This relatively new concept has emerged due to the popularity of adult only areas aboard regular cruise ships. It was only a matter of time before this was extended to entire ships.

While most cruise lines still focus on offering family-friendly cruises , there are some that have pioneered adult-only cruises. Their ships are either entirely kid-free or at least their (lack of) kid-friendly facilities keep away traveling families.

Some cruise lines simply have adult-only ships; others still accept children, but definitely have fewer on board.

The key to finding adult-only cruises is looking for those sailings that lack family appeal. Ships without children facilities and cruises with a strong focus on culture, food and history will naturally have far fewer kids onboard.

Below, you’ll find some of the best adult-only cruises available today.

A brand-new addition to, and some would say disruptor of, the cruise industry, Richard Branson’s Virgin Voyages hit the seas in 2020 and is a completely adult-only cruise line . To sail on any of its ships, passengers have to be 18 years or older.

Virgin Voyages offers cruises that are hip, cool and maybe even sexy. Branson himself has said that the goal is to draw in people who’d never have considered going on a cruise before. Cutting-edge amenities range from a test kitchen to the world’s largest daybed at sea to a fancy nightclub.

The Virgin Voyages fleet consists of four ships , each catering to adults 18 years and older. The maiden ship, the Scarlet Lady is a high-end, ultra-modern cruise ship that can accommodate up to 2,770 passengers and has a strong focus on the body and mind. Adults can get pampered at a world-class spa, complete with salt room, hydrotherapy pool, quartz beds, mudroom and the like. Outside, an outdoor sundeck and yoga area will be flanked by a running track. Additionally, the indoor gym, boxing ring and group classes will offer even more physical enjoyment.

Let’s not forget, though, that Virgin Voyages will also feature tons of culinary and entertainment venues. This all to make Virgin Voyages one of the best-ever adult-only cruise lines.

With a strict 18-years-or-older policy, all Viking Ocean Cruises have been adult-only cruises since the very beginning. Ever since they revolutionized the river cruise industry, with stylish ships appealing to an older demographic, they’ve been one of the leading cruise lines for grownups. With itineraries focused on immersion in local culture, cuisine and onshore activities, it’s a fantastic choice for a more sophisticated (and longer) cruise.

Instead of offering all kinds of non-stop entertainment and 24-hour buffet restaurants, Viking Ocean Cruises gives its passengers the chance to actually relax in between ports. They strive to offer, as they themselves put it, “ The Thinking Person’s Cruise “. Every detail you see on board a Viking ship was thoughtfully designed to allow you to completely immerse yourself in the destinations you’re visiting, as well as their culture, art, history and cuisine.

There are tastings of local wines guided by a sommelier, cooking classes and guest lectures. Curated libraries provide the opportunity to read up on everything and anything you’d like. It’s not only about nourishing your intellect, creativity and spirit, though. You can also pamper your body at the on-board fitness center and spa, a sanctuary of typical Nordic wellness featuring a sauna, various pools and baths, and even a snow grotto.

The iconic Viking ships sail all over the world , including the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Caribbean and East Asia, and even round-the-world cruises .

While originally a millennial-only cruise line, U by Uniworld changed its age restrictions in 2018 and now offers river cruises in Europe to adults of all ages. They still focus heavily on younger adults in their branding and marketing, though, which sets them apart from other river cruise lines.

Their itineraries are packed with immersive activities, social events and cultural programs, catering perfectly to the millennial lifestyle where experiences are more important than materialism. On their river cruises on the rivers of the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, you can expect plenty of fun things to do, from countryside bike rides to hands-on cocktail workshops, cultural walking tours and kayaking excursions.

U by Uniworld has numerous river ships, all of which offer unique experiences and elegant spaces. It’s worth highlighting two of them, though. Simply called The A and The B, these ships can accommodate 120 passengers. Made to cruise Europe’s most iconic rivers, they’re not just a floating boutique hotel, but also a water taxi, yoga studio, nightclub, restaurant and bar.

Many of the available on-board activities are also a bit “out of the box” and you won’t find them on any other cruise line. They include things like tent camping on the ship’s rooftop, silent disco parties, and top-deck wine and paint classes in some of Europe’s most picturesque locations.

Mostly Adult Only Cruises With Adult Amenities

In addition to the top adult-only cruise lines above, there are several others that also cater mainly to adults. Although they’re technically not 100% adults only, they do make for a great choice if you’re looking for a more sophisticated and grown-up atmosphere. When you book a cruise with the following cruise lines, you won’t find many kids on board (though there might be the occasional family).

Carnival Cruises Serenity Adult-Only Retreat

The perfect example of what sparked the new adult-only cruise trend is Carnival’s Serenity Adult-Only Retreat . While Carnival is also a family-friendly cruise line, it’s this kind of 21+ retreats that have proven immensely popular among grown-up passengers. You’ll still be at the same ship as the kids, but while they’re participating in a themed event or other kids’ activity, you’ll be swaying in a hammock, sitting at the bar or simply lazing in a sunbed.

Additionally, Carnival Cruises is a great choice for honeymoon cruises , just because of their various adult-only areas. The Alchemy Bar, Piano Bar and Tequila Bar, for example, are accessible only to people 21 years and older, great places to kick back with an adult beverage. For more evening action, you can head to the Nightclub, where DJs spin the latest hits and theme parties are no uncommon.

Alternatively, the Cloud 9 Spa Thermal Suite offers ultimate relaxation with its steam baths, dry heat rooms and other climate-controlled areas.

Although Silversea does accept children older than 6 months, there are little or no kids’ programs on board their ships. Silversea cruises don’t come with childcare services, children’s entertainment or supervision. This in itself greatly limits the number of kids on board their ships.

Instead, Silversea focuses on giving guests a luxurious cruise experience. This is one of the top luxury cruise lines in the world, offering only all-inclusive cruises to amazing destinations. There are butlers, 24-hour gourmet dining options, first-class wine selections and award-winning shows and performances. While not strictly adults-only in theory, in practice, Silversea cruises are essentially high-end cruises for adults.

Another fantastic luxury cruise line, Seabourn also offers all-inclusive cruises focused on adults. On Seabourn ships, there are no children’s programs at all and it’s quite unusual to see families with kids on these cruises. Although parents could take their kids on a Seabourn cruise, they’ll have to entertain and supervise them 24/7 themselves.

This is a great cruise line for travelers looking for an experience-rich cruise on a small, intimate ship. Seabourn offers excellent cuisine, world-class service and relaxed luxury, all in some of the world’s most extraordinary cruise destinations.

Unable to accommodate children younger than 8, while passengers under 21 must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 25 years old, Windstar Cruises also essentially offers adult-only cruises in practice.

The intimate atmosphere and elegant designs of their small cruise ships are adult-oriented and not really suitable for children, especially younger ones. There are no childcare, entertainment or other kid-friendly services on board. Additionally, Windstar also doesn’t offer a child rate—each minor occupying a stateroom as a third person will be charged the applicable “third person rate.”

Instead of focusing on traveling families, Oceania Cruises caters almost exclusively to adult travelers. Infants and children are allowed, however, but there are restrictions and very few services. The minimum age on Oceania Cruises is 1 year, while passengers younger than 18 must be accompanied by and stay in the same stateroom as an adult.

Onboard Oceania’s ships, you’ll find a wide array of adult-focused facilities and services, from a running track and artist loft to a culinary center, library and lecture rooms. Additionally, Oceania is one of the more affordable small-ship cruise lines that cater to adults.

On their website , Azamara “discourages families from sailing with children under 18 years of age, as the on board ambience and experience caters to adults and there are no activities for children or baby-sitting services available.” It doesn’t get more direct and clearer than that, which basically makes Azamara an adults-only cruise line.

Azamara is a fantastic cruise line for grownups who’d like to really immerse themselves in their destination(s), indulge in local cuisine, spend more time in ports and have more overnight stays, and enjoy high-end boutique hotel-like services.

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The 5 best kids sail free cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Save on your family cruise with these kids sail free deals.

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

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Several cruise lines offer kids sail free promos throughout the year.

If you're angling for an affordable family cruise , you'll be happy to know that several major cruise lines let children sail for free (either regularly or during special promotions). Read on to discover which lines cater to families with kids sail free offers.

Cruise lines where kids sail free

Holland america line, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international, costa cruises, msc cruises.

Find your perfect cruise

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Deal: Holland America Line is offering a "Kids Cruise Free" promotion on select itineraries in 2024. The offer applies to several itineraries including Hawaii , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal; to qualify, children must be 18 or younger and cruising as third and/or fourth guests in the same cabin as adults. As with similar promotions, taxes and port fees are still required for each child's sailing.

Family-friendly perks: Amenities onboard Holland America ships include kids clubs and youth programs, as well as shore excursions oriented to families with little ones in tow. Plenty of stateroom options can also accommodate larger bookings. The Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, in particular, feature oversized staterooms with beds for four, a large sitting area and a spacious veranda.

Book a Holland America Line Cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Deal: Norwegian Cruise Line lets third and fourth guests cruise free on select itineraries throughout the year. Cruises to which this promotion applies are offered all over the world, including bucket-list destinations like Alaska and the Mediterranean .

Some of the itineraries that qualify for free third and fourth guests also come with complimentary amenities like an unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursions and/or complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some of the itineraries include generous discounts on the total cruise cost , as well as free airfare for a second guest (when booked through the cruise line).

Family-friendly perks: With Norwegian's all-ages kids clubs, family dining, entertainment and activities included in one bundled rate, planning a kid-approved vacation with the cruise line is a breeze. Many Norwegian ships also feature an array of family-friendly staterooms with plenty of extra space. For example, the luxurious Norwegian Prima offers a two-bedroom family villa with a large balcony in "The Haven" – its exclusive area for VIP guests.

Explore Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GotoSea.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Deal: Royal Caribbean offers a "Kids Sail Free" deal several times each year, allowing children 12 or younger to cruise free provided they are the third guests (or beyond) staying in the same cabin as at least two paying adults. The only catch is that blackout dates apply – typically during holiday and school breaks.

Family-friendly perks: There's a reason so many families choose Royal Caribbean ; kid-friendly amenities range from age-specific programming to zip lining at sea. The line's  exclusive island for cruisers , Perfect Day at CocoCay in  the Bahamas , is also a big hit with young passengers thanks to its waterslides and splash areas.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruise itineraries on GotoSea.

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Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Deal: Costa Cruises may not be as popular as some other cruise lines on our list, but it's a worthwhile option for cruisers looking to sail through Europe, the Middle East or South America. The cruise line allows kids traveling as third or fourth guests to sail for free with two adults in the same cabin, and this promotion applies to passengers ages 2 to 17. This offer is valid on all sailings offered by the line, many of which feature destinations in desirable ports along the Mediterranean such as Barcelona , Marseille and Rome .

Family-friendly perks: Costa Cruises vessels offer abundant family-friendly amenities, from water parks to arcades to mini golf. Kids clubs are available for children ages 3 to 11, and they provide entertainment like arts and crafts, themed parties, and games galore. A teen zone also hosts cruisers ages 12 to 17 who want to mingle, sing karaoke and play group sports when ships aren't in port.

Find a Costa Cruises deal on GotoSea.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Deal: MSC Cruises lets children younger than 18 cruise for free on select itineraries, depending on the ship's capacity. (Other exclusions or eligibility requirements may apply.) Kids must be the third or fourth guests traveling in the same cabin as their parents (at least two adults) for the deal to be valid; note that any port fees and taxes still apply to children's fares.

Family-friendly perks: MSC Cruises offers a variety of leisure activities and amenities designed specifically for kids. On board, youngsters can take advantage of perks from water parks with slides and swimming pools to Broadway-style shows and interactive dinners. The line also hosts fun family excursions and a "Lego Experience On Board" event on every cruise. In addition, there are a myriad of amenities for parents to enjoy while the youngest passengers are occupied by one of five dedicated kids clubs.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel writer who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries, and her many trips have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cruises for Babies & Toddlers
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• How to Get Your Child a Passport
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How and when to cruise kid-free

Cruise lines are offering more options for passengers who need a respite and a kid-free holiday.

From adult-only vessels to private areas just for the oldies, there are many options for passenger these days. We’ve compiled a list of adult-only lines as well as some of the options on ships with children.

We’ve found some handy tips to make sure you can cruise kid-free

Choose a luxury ship

While luxury lines don’t ban children, luxurious high-end companies like Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas as well as smaller lines like Oceania Cruises and Windstar are more geared towards adults. During the school holidays, some lines offer children’s programs. The cruises are not overrun with children but the ones you do find onboard, tend to be well behaved and well-travelled.

Try an exotic itinerary

Hardcore adventure and expedition ships and  often don’t have children onboard. Generally, itineraries to the polar regions like the Arctic and Antarctica, as well as through the jungles of Southeast Asia, rarely have children onboard. Like the luxury ships, you might find a few, but they too, generally are rather worldly for their age.

School-term sailings

The easiest way to avoid the kids is to make sure you sail during school terms. You will rarely find children onboard premium cruise lines during this time. It’s unavoidable when you’re sailing on contemporary family vessels from P&O Australia, Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. But at least the pools may be a bit quieter.

Longer cruises

Most families tend to take shorter and weekend cruises. So one way to avoid children is by picking cruises of 10-nights or longer. If you’re heading to the South Pacific, opt for a longer cruise during the school term. If you’re doing a lengthy repositioning cruise, grand voyage or even a world cruise, you’ll just be hanging with the adults.

If you can’t avoid the school holiday sailings, try booking a suite in the upgraded VIP areas. Lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America and MSC offer guests haven areas which have their own pool, lounge areas, dining room and a private entrance. There are some families which do frequent these areas, but again, it’s most likely they will be on their best behaviour.

Kid-free areas

Now if you can’t afford the VIP treatment, seek refuge in the kids-free area. These safe little havens usually are around a bar and have cabanas and a small pool for the adults to relax. Some areas, like on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas  also has a restaurant/café attached. So you can enjoy your cake and eat it too.

Try a river cruise

Most river cruise lines, while are open to having children onboard, might not attract families because of the range of facilities onboard. The itineraries are also designed more for adults, as river lines have more enrichment and cultural shore excursions.

In NZ, a trip to Rotaroa was to cost 4 of us $450 each to visit a Kiwi village. We hired a car for $100 and paid our own way into the village. Total cost was $75 each

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Disney Cruise For Adults: What to Experience on DCL Without Kids

We’re living proof Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is for adults too. All our experiences sailing on their ships have been without children. A Disney cruise without kids is a lot of fun for an over 18 years old aged crowd as much as it is for an under-18 crowd.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

What You Can Expect Sailing on a Disney Cruise Without Kids

Are Disney Cruises fun for adults? You better believe it! If you’re searching for one of the best cruises for adults, be sure to include DCL in your list if you’re a fan of the Disney brand because we’re telling you: it’s great for adults, not just kids. Read on to find out why.

Over of Adults-Only on a Disney Cruise, Without Kids

★ Click on a menu item below for a detailed read about that particular point, or simply keep scrolling to read the entire article.

We have often heard the same criticism from people who have preconceived notions of Disney Cruise Line (DCL): it’s full of kids. Or it’s just for kids. That couldn’t be further from the truth. As two people who have sailed with Disney Cruise Line many times, each Disney cruise without kids, we can speak to what it’s like to cruise on the high seas with Disney sans children.

From adult-only experiences, spaces, and shopping to decor only adults will appreciate, it’s a wonderful option for anyone who appreciates superior service, design, and entertainment.

✦ Children…Are Not Everywhere

The best thing about Disney Cruise Line in terms of children — for the sake of the adults and kids on the ship — is they are designed to accommodate kids. This means they have specific areas for kids. Different age groups of kids can spend all day and night in the areas of the ship designed just for them. This means they are confined to the kids’ areas that adults cannot visit…and they’re happy to be there!

Infants to teens have designated care and clubs. For instance, there’s a group for babies that still nap in cribs, another area for toddlers, one for pre-teens, and another for teens.

Unless you’re dropping your child off at one of these areas or you’re on your way to a meal and standing in line amongst a group of adults with their kids, you don’t encounter children any more than on any other cruise. (The exception is if you’re on a river cruise or yacht cruise , whose minimum age requirement to be a guest is 18 years of age or older. Then of course there are strictly no kids.)

✦ You Can Bring Your Own Alcohol Onboard

Did you know Disney Cruise Line is one of the only large cruise ship lines that allows adults who are 21+ to bring alcohol onboard on embarkation day? And you can bring more alcohol onboard when you stop at a port! How’s that for Disney adulting?!

You can bring beer and/or wine onboard in certain quantities. Check out our Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Day post for more information regarding what the alcohol allowance is per guest.

✦ Awe-Inspiring Disney Cruise Line Ship Details Only Adults Appreciate

Though there aren’t specifically “adult Disney cruises,” there are many, many elements of Disney cruise ship designs that only adults would appreciate.

Adults are the main audience for whom the splendor was designed. They’re the ones who can truly appreciate the ships’ aesthetics and architectural plans. When was the last time you heard a child say, “The color palette Disney chose for this atrium is stunning! Look at the geometry of the chandelier. I love this ship’s Art Deco design!” Never, that’s when!

(Psst: If the term “atrium” is unfamiliar to you, that’s okay! Here are some essential cruise ship terms you should know.)

We were particularly struck by the Imagineer Disney Wish design details , which inspired us to sign up for a walking tour of the ship to learn more. We’ve taken the tour twice, and not a child was to be found on either tour.

The ships are pristine, and the crew is continuously concerned with their upkeep. I’ve stayed on a DCL ship when it’s in port, and most guests are ashore for day excursions; it’s during this time I’ve seen workers repainting signs and doing extra hallway cleaning in the name of ship upkeep. It’s really impressive.

The cabins are also very smartly designed and bigger than your average ship cabin on competing cruise lines. (If you need to use your space even more smartly, here are great suggestions on what to pack and how to pack for your cruise.)

The interior design of each stateroom is elegant and chic; Disney touches are subtle and tasteful.

✧ Will You Appreciate the Disney Touches if You’re Not a Disney Fan?

Let’s face it — if you are not a Disney fan, it’s unlikely you’d be interested in a Disney cruise. It’s more likely that someone in your life, whether a partner, best friend, or extended family member, is pushing the cruise.

There are plenty of Disney touches around the ship subtle and obvious. For argument’s sake, however, say you’re going on a DCL cruise with your family, who chose the vacation for you. Perhaps it’s a big family reunion or wedding sailing with more than six or ten people. Fret not. Great art is great art, no matter the subject matter, as is great design.

If you appreciate Disney animation prints on the walls, handpainted murals (that may not have to do with Disney at all), or incredible mosaics from artists who worked to create something special, you might fall in love with the ship’s attention to detail.

Only adults can appreciate the subtle Mickey Mouse shapes in the railings or the instrumental versions of Disney classics that play in the hallways. Or the beautiful tapestries created for some walls of Disney Wish. Or the custom carpet everywhere. Be open to the wonder of it all and soak up the details only you, dear adult, can appreciate when you are on a Disney Cruise Line vessel.

✦ Superior Disney Cruise Line Crew

The cast and crew members on the ship are 100 times better than those at the parks.

I’ve noticed the quality of Disney Cast Members at the parks, as a whole, has declined over the years. (Sorry to say that because it’s sad but true even though there are plenty of incredible Cast Members.)

We suppose it’s a sign of American culture overall and generational changes. But smiles, friendliness, and politeness are at an all-time high on the ships. No request is too great, no matter too small. They’re phenomenal. And when you’re an adult cruising with Disney, you want to feel well taken care of on vacation by the staff and the brand.

From the moment you check in online for your Disney cruise to port arrival to every day you spend on the ship, you get a little sparkly feeling interacting with Disney Cruise Line. You quickly notice how friendly and extra caring the DCL crew is.

✦ Spaces Exclusive to Adults Aboard Disney Cruise Line (No Kids Allowed)

✧ senses spa and senses fitness.

There’s a spa onboard every ship that’s just for adults, along with a fitness center. Senses Spa and Fitness is an incredibly quiet, peaceful area.

Disney Cruise Line has realized how important the spa is, especially for an adult-only Disney cruise element, that they have expanded things like the Rainforest Room on new ships. It’s quite an impressive area on Disney Wish.

Note that Senses Spa requires paid access for a spa pass or treatment like a massage. Senses Fitness is open to any guest who wants to work out. Some fitness classes are free and some require a payment. You can sign up for classes in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app when you are onboard the ship.

✧ Adult-Only Quiet Cove Pool (and Hot Tub)

There’s a pool area on each of the Disney Cruise Line ships strictly for 18 and older guests to enjoy called Quiet Cove Pool. Some cruise lines charge extra for an area like this but on DCL it’s included in your cruise fare.

Usually, there are at least two hot tubs on DCL ships. One is for all guests (including teenagers) and the other is in the Quiet Cove Pool area, only for adults.

I’ve seen Cast Members, first-hand, kindly ask guests in the hot tub their age after realizing they looked younger than 18. As an adult myself, wishing to be kid-free in adult-only areas, I really appreciated that.

Part of Quiet Cove Pool is Cove Cafe. This retreat is a cafe dedicated to adults, where you can relax with gourmet coffee, tea, and specialty drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) throughout the day. I love getting an iced mocha in this area on a hot day in the Caribbean , for example.

✦ Disney Cruise Line Adult-Only Activities

There are plenty of adult-only activities to enjoy, proving that Disney Cruise Line is for adults too but also that the ships’ creators cared enough about them to focus on adult-only fun.

There are trivia nights for 18+, nightclubs, and specialty tastings (yes, with alcohol), to name a few. DCL also offers  adult-only excursions at some ports . We’ve seen a newlywed-type game or two get pretty “suggestive” in narration from the hosts on DCL!

Disney has made adult-only programming a focus as they have added more ships to the fleet. Evidence of this is Hook’s Barbery on Disney Wish . It has a bourbon and whiskey bar inside, and they host tastings there. Guests can sign up for a tasting for an additional charge.

Other examples of DCL adult activities like this are martini tastings, chocolate and liquor tastings, stem-to-stern wine tastings, and more. Not every beverage tasting is available on every cruise but there are always some.

✦ Adult Shopping Onboard Disney Ships

One of our favorite things to do on a cruise ship is peruse the watches for sale. There’s always an area on the ships for adult-only jewelry, including watches, Pandora charms, designer handbags, and more. Duty-free shopping is a highlight for many on any cruise.

✦ Exclusive Restaurants and Bars for Adults, Without Kids, on Disney Cruises

Disney focuses on culinary excellence, whether in their theme parks or around their Walt Disney World property . Most dining areas aboard Disney cruise ships are for every guest, regardless of age. But there are plenty of dining options for adults only .

Some restaurants and bars are adult-exclusive restaurants all the time, while others become adults-only after a certain hour. After hours, live entertainment, silent discos, and age-appropriate trivia are available in adult-focused venues.

The restaurants Palo (on various Disney Ships), Remy, and Enchanté are guest favorites. You can have Palo Brunch or Dinner , and dinner at the other restaurants. We love to get dressed up a bit nicer than the main rotation dining restaurants, have an alcoholic beverage before dinner, and do a little fine dining while enjoying it all kids-free. These restaurant experiences incur an additional cost, but they are worth every penny!

Additionally, some DCL ships have exclusive areas that are adults-only, which bear a special location name. They are:

• The District on Disney Dream
• Europa on Disney Fantasy
• After Hours on Disney Magic and Disney Magic

Adult Only Restaurants and Bars by Disney Cruise Ship

Disney wish.

• Palo Steakhouse
• Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement
• The Rose bar
• Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge* bar
• Keg & Compass
• Nightingale’s piano bar
• The Bayou* lounge and live music venue
• Untangled Salon
• Hook’s Barbery

Disney Fantasy

• O’Gills Pub

Disney Wonder

• Crown & Fin Pub
• Cadillac Lounge
• French Quarter Lounge*

Disney Dream

• Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar
• District Lounge

Disney Magic

• Soul Cat Lounge*

*Adults-only after a certain hour but multi-purpose family-friendly venue during the day.

What to Expect on Castaway Cay During an Adult-Only Disney Cruise

If you’re sailing in the Caribbean with DCL, it’s likely that your Disney cruise, kids-free, will make a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

You’ll be delighted to know that there’s an adult-only beach, called Serenity Bay, area that’s so private and quiet you’ll forget there were any kids at all on your sailing, let alone the island. For a real indulgence, book a beach massage through Senses Spa.

There’s also an area by this beach for an adults-only lunch.

Adults Can Be Kids during a Disney Cruise…If they Want

If you are an adult who wants to feel like a kid on a Disney cruise, it’s up to you. There are plenty of opportunities to order Mickey ice cream bars, see characters if you should choose to have a photo taken with Pluto or Tiana, for instance, or stay up to midnight on Disney Wish to see the “Kiss Goodnight” in the Grand Hall.

Want to see Mickey and Minnie dancing on stage? No problem — head to the Sail Away party! But if you don’t want to, you can also completely miss the Sail Away party (as in not even hear or see any part of it whatsoever) and relax with a beer or cocktail at one of the many bars on your Disney cruise ship.

✧ Do you See Characters Everywhere You Go on a Disney Cruise?

If you the terminal waiting to embark on your Disney Cruise and happen to be there when Mickey or Minnie pops out for photo opportunities, you may see a character. If you go to the pirate night to see the fireworks from the ship, you may see a character on stage.

But otherwise, you have to look at the daily Navigator schedule to really find characters. There have been cruises I hardly see any characters at all.

You don’t see them unless you’re specifically on the prowl and in the exact designated location at the exact time the Cruise Navigator says they’ll be appearing. Which, if you think about it, is kind of the same way it is at the Disney theme parks .

✦ Get Ship Ready: Secure your Disney Cruise Line Gear!

Another way to feel like a kid while still adulting is to be a Disney Adult and plan your Disney Cruise Line outfits, tumblers, and more before you’re even on the ship.

Check out Etsy’s awesome DCL gear and also Amazon’s cool Disney-themed attire and cruise essentials!

Conclusion of Enjoying a Disney Cruise Without Kids

You’ll be wowed by Disney Cruise Line’s opportunities to enjoy your cruise experience without kids.

So even if you’re just an adult there to have a great time, with a love for the Disney brand, you’ll enjoy the adult-only pools and cafe, the adult-only programming and nightclubs, and bars too. You’ll even appreciate Castaway Cay from a different perspective!

Interested in a cruise with Disney or others? Also check out:

Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know

• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 
• Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks

Getting married on DCL? Check out Mikkel Paige Photography !

Similar Posts

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Guide to Disney Castaway Club: Membership Levels & Benefits

Ship-within-a-Ship Cruise Options: Luxury Service on Big Cruises

Disney Wish Enchanté Restaurant: Is It Worth It?

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I went on a Disney cruise as an adult without kids. Here's what it was like.

• Nicole Cruz went on a Disney cruise without kids. She was worried it would be more for families.
• The cruise ship provided a lot of activities for adults and there was always something to do.
• However, it was a lot of Disney and by the end Cruz said she felt "Disney'd out."

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Nicole Cruz, a 25-year-old cruise-goer who went on the Disney Cruise for the first time. It has been edited for length and clarity.

I've been on a total of three cruises. Previously, I had only ever been on Royal Caribbean cruises, but recently I went on a Disney cruise line with a close friend. We've taken other cruises together in the past, and since we both enjoy Disney, he convinced me to go, too. 

We decided on Disney Magic, which is Disney Cruise Line's original and oldest ship. Before boarding I was prepared to see a lot of kids — I've always thought that Disney Cruises are more of a family thing or something you would only do with children. 

But once I got on, I was surprised to see that there weren't as many kids as I thought. Instead there were a lot of adults and the cruise ship provided a lot of adult activities. 

There were a lot of adult activities

As an adult, I felt like I never ran out of things to do. There were adult lounges, bars, trivia nights, disco nights and game shows, too. All of these activities were made for those over the age of 18. 

For me, I think the most memorable activity was the dating show. During the show, they picked three couples from the crowd and asked the women a handful of questions while the men stood in another room. 

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They then brought them back together in the room and asked them the same questions to see if their answers matched. They asked things like: If you could leave a member of your spouse's family on a deserted island, who would you pick? It was all fun, silly, adult questions and I really enjoyed it. 

I also participated in a nightclub activity they had on board. The event had a bar, a little dance floor, a bunch of seating and it had a DJ, too. The downside was it started at 12 a.m. and ended at 1 a.m., so the whole thing only went for an hour.

With that said, I didn't think the Disney cruise provided too much of a night life experience if that's what you're looking for. They also didn't have a show for the second night, which would have been great as the shows were very impressive.  

The food was decent, and it was better than the Royal Caribbean's food, in my opinion. You can taste the difference in quality. 

The drink package on Disney Cruise

One thing I also noticed with Disney Cruise is they don't offer a drink package in the way most cruise ships do. I was a little worried about how much I'd be spending on drinks. 

But the drinks were reasonably priced. Instead of paying $20 for a drink like you usually do at the Disney parks, I only paid around $9 a drink. At the end of the trip, I only spent an extra $127 and that included other things I purchased on the cruise too.

When to book to save money

Disney cruises are known for being a bit expensive. I spent just over $1,000 for our inside stateroom, even though we took our cruise during September, hurricane season, to save some money.

For comparison, when cruising with the Royal Caribbean, I've typically paid around $400 per person for my room. However, the inside staterooms on Disney Magic were also bigger than the inside staterooms on the Royal Caribbean.

I also noticed that there were far fewer college kids compared to the Royal Caribbean — I think that's partly because of how expensive it was. To me, this was a perk because even though I like to party, it was nice being on a cruise that was quieter and felt relaxing.

In my opinion, while the price difference is significant, Disney Magic was worth the value.

The only downside of the Disney cruise

I will say it was a lot of Disney and it was very in your face. There are Disney characters everywhere, and it felt like there was a character in every corner.

At times, they even brought out all the characters for interactions with the guests, and it was very up-close and personal. Towards the end of my Disney Cruise, I felt very Disney'd out.

Still the Disney Cruise provided good value, offered a good service and I was impressed by the shows and the decent food.

If you have been on a cruise and would like to share your story, email Alyshia Hull at [email protected] .

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No Kids Allowed! Virgin Launches Its First Cruise Ship — and It's Adults Only

Dubbed "Scarlet Lady," the ship is only open to travelers who are 18 and up and has a tattoo parlor on board

Virgin is setting sail, with an adults-only ship that’s ready to rock.

Sir Richard Branson is expanding his empire and launching his first cruise line, Virgin Voyages , the company announced. Dubbed, “Scarlet Lady,” the boat is only open to travelers who are 18 and up, and will offer grown-up on-board ammenties like a tattoo parlor, luxurious spa, and a blow-dry bar.

Virgin, which already operates several travel-related related companies including hotels, airlines and a commercial space flight company, Virgin Galactic, announced that their inaugural cruise ship would set sail for the Caribbean in 2020.

Guests will enjoy complimentary meals from a variety of restaurants, such as Wake, a steak and seafood eatery or Pink Agave, a Mexican joint designed to look like an elevated taqueria on the streets of Mexico City .

Travelers can also indulge in drag brunch at the vibrant Razzle Dazzle, where the menu is split into a “nice” section with only plant-based vegetarian and vegan items and a “naughty” list, which features meat additions to meals or boozy shots . The flashy red-and-white entrance was inspired by the camouflaged pattern painted on warships from WWI and WWII.

The ship is also equipped with a food hall, a 24-hour diner, a pizza joint and a test kitchen, where daring guests will each be provided with only a list of ingredients, and the chef surprises them with a dish based on their list.

WATCH THIS: Richard Branson vs. Barack Obama Water Sports

While much of the ship is built with an adventurous traveler in mind, there are also plenty of places to relax on the ship, such as at the Redemption Spa, complete with hydrotherapy pool, mud room, salt room, cold plunge pools, quartz beds, and rejuvenating spa treatments.

At night, sailors can attend one of the voyage’s evening spa parties where a DJ will transform the spa’s thermal suite into a mermaid hideaway.

Travelers can also take advantage of the ship’s athletic center, which features an outdoor training zone, including a boxing ring and gymnastics equipment. Alongside an area for outdoor gaming, sits the largest daybed at sea, and a sports bar for a post-workout drink. Guests can also partake in yoga or cycling classes .

Scarlet Lady will also be outfitted with a nightclub, multiple pools, and a mani/pedi spa.

At night, guests can rest their head in the ship’s standard cabins, or one of 78 “Rockstar Suites,” which are built for luxury with spacious rooms and fully-stocked bars. Many offer oceanfront views. Suite guests will also have access to “Richard’s Rooftop,” an exclusive outdoor deck where they can drink, tan or socialize.

“Virgin has always avoided stuffy formalities and brought a lot of excitement and a bit of rebelliousness to our customer experiences,” Branson says in a statement. “With these glamorous suites, Virgin Voyages is bringing rock and roll to the high seas and spoiling our Sailors like the rockstars they are.”

“We have combined brilliant design and Virgin Voyages’ epic Sailor experience vision to create a completely new version of luxury — Rebellious Luxe . . . that makes everything we do different, indulgent and meaningfully relevant to our Sailors,” Tom McAlpin CEO of Virgin Voyages, said in a statement. “Whether they want to sleep all day, praise the sun with yoga at dusk or party all night, our RockStar Suite Sailors can live out their fantasies aboard the Scarlet Lady.”

The ship’s inaugural trip will sail from Miami to the Caribbean in 2020, and future itineraries will include trips to Cuba .

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No kids on board: the surge of adult-only cruises

'No kids allowed’ cruises are growing in popularity, with enquiries for ‘adult-only’ cruise holidays surging on search engines. And cruise providers, in their restless search to attract new customers, are more than happy to indulge.

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The cruise industry is growing quicker than any other category in the leisure travel market, so it makes sense that as interest increases, the industry splinters to provide customers with more specialised options for their holiday. Most cruises, after all, don’t tend to be for those low on cash and customers are more often than not looking for an enticing, bespoke experience.

While many cruises are billed as family experiences, most vessels now include a child-free area away from screaming children or under 18s. Several cruise providers have gone a step further though, by listing their vessel as adult-only. The idea is hardly novel, but is becoming more widespread on mainstream liners like P&O Cruises and Virgin Voyages.

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Virgin cruises intermediate ltd, marella cruises.

“Adult-only cruises are not a new concept,” says Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland director Andy Harmer, “however previously these types of sailings were limited primarily to the traditional and high-end luxury ships. Over recent years there has been an increasing consumer interest in kids-free cruising, which has prompted the cruise industry to rethink its approach to adult-only cruising.”

Adult-only cruises: is it really a new trend?

“Before more recent adult-only ship offerings from the likes of Saga , Viking and P&O – as well as soon-to-be-launched Virgin Voyages, there have always been a number of ships specifically created with adults in mind,” explains Cruise Critic UK managing editor Adam Coulter. “For example, Cunard Line’s QM2, whilst it does have a kid’s club, tends to nonetheless, offer a predominantly adult-focussed on-board entertainment programme. Many river cruise lines also have a minimum age to sail of 12 or 13, and there are a number of luxury lines that just do not offer child-friendly amenities at all.”

In the UK market, family cruises are an extremely popular offering. While there has of course always been demand for groups that wish to experience a trip without children or teens in the vicinity, traditionally these travellers have opted for land-based holidays. But according to Harmer, cruise lines are increasingly cottoning on to the demand for 18+ holidays.

“P&O Cruises recently announced that ‘following extensive research and guest feedback’ it will convert Aurora  to adults-only next year, joining Oriana and Arcadia  in restricting passengers to ages 18 years and over. Furthermore, Marella Cruises recently announced that its new ship, Marella Explorer 2  would join its fleet in 2019 as adults-only in addition to a number of adults-only cruises on its other ships.”

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Adult-friendly liner layouts

While on the face of it, removing child-friendly areas doesn’t necessarily change up the layout of a vessel too much, by freeing up space from a lack of childcare and youth entertainment facilities, cruise liners have more space for adult-focused activities. “In general, adult-only ships have no kids’ club spaces or waterslides on deck and tend to have a few more restaurant, bar or lounge area choices instead,” says Coulter.

“The appeal of an adults-only cruise is much more than just not having kids running around the ship,” comments Harmer, “there is a luxury appeal that comes with adults-only ships. Cruise lines can get more adventurous with a ship’s design and on-board facilities when there is no need to reserve space for children’s amenities. For example, Virgin Voyages recently announced that the Scarlet Lady will have a tattoo studio on-board.”

And just because liners aren’t catering for children, this doesn’t mean the entertainment available will be for middle-aged and older people only. Child-free packages aren’t just for the stereotyped over fifty cruiser. “Although adult-only ships from cruise lines such as Viking, Saga and P&O do tend to attract older travellers, cruise lines such as U by Uniworld with its millennial-focussed T he A and The B river ships show that there is an increasing trend to attract a younger adult audience.”

It seems doubtful that child-free cruise packages will become the norm in the industry given the high popularity of family-friendly holidays, complete with entertainment suitable for adults and children alike, but what does seem likely is a continued emphasis on more specialised experiences that will allow customers to pay for the exact trip of their dreams, or as near as damn it.

“We believe there will be greater segmentation, in general, as cruise lines increasingly try to differentiate their cruise offerings and provide wider choice for all types of holidaymakers,” says Coulter. A comment echoed by Harmer, who says that “although kid-free cruises are no doubt increasing in popularity, family cruises will always remain in high demand. That being said, it will become the norm for cruise ships, whether they’re adult-only or not, to have kid free zones.”

Of course the other option for cruisers looking for an adult-only experience is to simply book a trip during term time – a time-honoured tradition for those looking for a childless vacation experience.

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Watch CBS News

"Big Nude Boat" offers a trip to "bare-adise" on a naked cruise from Florida

By Li Cohen

Updated on: May 2, 2024 / 8:20 AM EDT / CBS News

Like to travel light? One cruise ship soon to set sail from Florida is making sure all you need is the bare necessities – no shoes, no clothes but plenty of service. 

" The Big Nude Boat " will take travelers from Miami to the Caribbean on "an 11-day adventure back to Bare-adise," the website says. Setting sail from Feb. 3 through Valentine's Day 2025, the trip offers a "stress-free, clothes-free experience" during which up to 2,300 passengers can roam the ship in the nude while out at sea. 

"It's our pleasure to provide you with the luxury of deciding what NOT to wear," Bare Necessities Tour and Travel says. 

@cbsmornings Would you dare to set sail on a nude cruise? 🚢 Cruisebare's upcoming full-ship nude cruise, departing from Miami in February next year, is making waves. Even #TonyDokoupil is down to go. 🌊 #cruises #vacation #experience #miami #sail ♬ original sound - CBS Mornings

Passengers won't be allowed to be naked when the ship is docked, but can ditch their usual attire once they are anchored or out on the water. And when clothing is optional, standard nudist etiquette must be abided by, the website says. When sitting, nude passengers must either wear a thong or sit on a towel or some kind of fabric. And while the self-serve buffet on the pool deck is a clothes-free area, passengers must be dressed for all dining room meals – and no, bathrobes don't count. 

Photos and videos will also not be permitted unless all individuals being documented give consent. 

"The Big Nude Boat" is just one of the cruises offered by Bare Necessities, which says on its website that the company has been "working to break down the barriers against social nudity and make clothing-optional vacationing a viable and acceptable option for all." 

"Social nudity is not a sexual activity, and we strive to dispel the misconception that it is anything but natural and beautiful," the company says. "We have made strides in the acceptance of nude vacationing and our wide range of cruise charters are a testament to our success."

• Cruise Ship

Li Cohen is a social media producer and trending content writer for CBS News.

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Norwegian cruise mogul’s success secrets: Focus on the wealthy and absolutely no kids allowed

Torstein Hagen founded his cruise line with a few simple principles in mind. Among them: focus on the wealthy and intellectually curious; no nickel-and-diming; and no kids.

Almost three decades on, his Viking Holdings Ltd. is among the world’s biggest luxury cruise operators, and Hagen’s fortune will surpass $5 billion as the company completes its initial public offering in New York.

Viking  raised  $1.54 billion from the oversubscribed share sale, showing that investors are willing to pour money into a sector that was decimated by the Covid pandemic and now is rebounding.

The shares  priced near the top  of the marketed range, according to a  regulatory filing , valuing the company at around $10.4 billion. Hagen controls roughly half of the shares, making him the second-richest person in the industry after Carnival Corp. Chairman Micky Arison, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

The listing also marks the pinnacle of an endeavor that, in Hagen’s  words , began with “two guys with two mobile phones and four river ships” seeking to woo customers who sought “more than just a vacation.” As the 81-year-old chief executive officer has often told journalists: Viking cruises are for the thinking person, not the drinking person.

Viking representatives didn’t respond to requests for comment on Bloomberg’s calculation of Hagen’s fortune.

Physics Degree

Born near Oslo, Hagen earned a degree in physics from the Norwegian Institute of Technology and an MBA from Harvard University. After a stint in management consulting, he entered the cruise industry in the 1970s. Around two decades later, following multiple failed attempts to help buy or otherwise take control over cruise lines with different investor groups, Hagen led the purchase of the four river ships and formed Viking.

The company initially focused on cruises along rivers up and down Europe before expanding into ocean travel and special expeditions to places like Antarctica and the US Great Lakes. Based in Bermuda, Viking today operates 92 vessels and employs more than 10,000 people. 

Its target customers: affluent English speakers aged 55 or older, with time and money to explore the world. Last year, 90% of its clients came from North America, according to the company’s registration statement. In the US, the 55-plus cohort holds around three-quarters of the country’s household wealth, Federal Reserve  data  show. 

In recent years, Viking has sold stakes to the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and alternative-asset manager TPG Inc. Both offloaded more shares in the offering than initially anticipated, according to a  filing .

Read More: TPG, CPPIB Are Said to Weigh Offering More Shares in Viking IPO

Hagen didn’t sell stock. His daughter, Karine, who has been working for Viking since it was founded and is now executive vice president, will control a small stake of less than 1%.

Viking said proceeds from the offering will be used to “increase our capitalization and financial flexibility” given its “substantial indebtedness.” It had $5.4 billion of debt at the end of 2023.

In a letter to shareholders included in the registration statement, Hagen noted the company sees big growth potential among consumers in China and elsewhere around Asia. That would go beyond “China Outbound,” the cruise offering in Europe with full crews of Mandarin speakers that Viking launched in 2016. The firm is also exploring safaris and land tours.

“We view Viking as the premier provider of travel experiences for thinking people,” the billionaire wrote in the letter. “We do not try to be all things to all people.”

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Cruise kids clubs: All your questions answered about camps at sea

Quality time together is a hallmark of a great family vacation, but sometimes kids just want to play with their peers — and adults need a break. Cruise lines understand these dual needs deeply and have designed ships accordingly, with amazing, expansive cruise kids clubs.

Kids clubs give families more choices in daytime and evening activities because they have options to hang out together or spend time apart. The clubs take the pressure off parents to find fun, age-appropriate activities for their kids all day long while suppressing their own needs for R&R and couples time. Also, kids who need video game time or social interaction with new friends can escape their siblings and "boring" adults for an hour or two ... or more.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Curious about kids clubs on cruise ships and how they work? I've sent my own kids to clubs across multiple lines and toured dozens more, so I have the answers to all your questions about these camps at sea.

What is a kids club on a cruise ship?

Cruise kids clubs are a combination of daycare, camp and a super-cool clubhouse. Families can drop off their kids and teens for as little as an hour to as long as nearly a full day for supervised play with other cruisers their age. The spaces for kids on a cruise ship are often clustered together, though tween and teen clubs might be separate.

Kids are not required to visit the kids clubs and can spend as much or as little time in the facilities as they and their families choose. Younger kids must be signed in and out by an adult caregiver; older children and teens can sign themselves in and out.

The kids clubs are run by the ship's youth staff, who are trained and experienced in childcare. For example, Royal Caribbean requires a four-year university degree in education or a related field (or an international equivalent) and three to five years of work experience in childcare. Youth staff on all lines take more of an active role in activities with younger kids and serve more as cool facilitators with the teens.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

What are the ages for kids clubs on cruise ships?

Each cruise line divides up its kids clubs differently, but you can expect that the littlest kids and oldest teens will not be together.

The main kids club typically accepts children as young as 3 (and toilet trained) and goes up to 10, 11 or 12, depending on whether the ship has a separate tween club. Tween clubs are often for kids ages 11 or 12 to 14, and teen clubs take 13- or 14-year-olds through 17-year-olds.

Your 18-year-old high schooler will not be able to visit the teen club, so keep that in mind if you're planning to take a family cruise during spring break of your child's senior year, for example.

Some lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line , will accept kids in the club as young as 2 years old. Other lines, like Disney Cruise Line , have nurseries for babies and toddlers younger than 3.

The younger kids club might also divide attendees into smaller age groups for certain activities. For example, MSC Cruises offers a Mini Club for kids ages 3 to 6 and a Junior Club for kids ages 7 to 11. Carnival divides its Camp Ocean into Penguins (2 to 5 years old), Stingrays (6 to 8 years old) and Sharks (9 to 11 years old).

Related: Best kid-friendly cruises: The 7 best cruise ships for kids

Are kids clubs on cruises free?

Yes! All kids club activities during the day and early evening for kids and teens are included in your cruise fare.

However, you might have to pay extra to drop off babies and toddlers at onboard nurseries. Also, late-night childcare for kids in the main club — usually starting at 10 or 11 p.m. — might cost extra on your ship. Both are often charged at an hourly rate for the time you use, with the occasional sibling discount.

What are the kids club spaces like?

Kids clubs for 3- to 12-year-olds are often multipurpose spaces that the ship's youth staff can set up with tables and chairs or clear out for group games. They all come equipped with video game areas, with stations set up with monitors and game consoles, and some might have other high-tech games on the walls, floors or tables, or other games like air hockey or foosball. The spaces often have colorful decor, perhaps themed to the ocean or nature.

On Royal Caribbean 's larger ships, you'll find multiroom play areas with separate spaces for art workshops, science experiments, sports and active games, and theatrical productions. Disney's kids clubs have rooms themed to different movies and characters, including a replica of the Millennium Falcon from "Star Wars," a play area done up like Andy's room from "Toy Story" and Tinkerbell's Pixie Hollow. MSC Cruises' kids clubs have dedicated areas for building with Lego bricks.

Tween and teen lounges are cool hangouts with lots of comfy seating areas for chatting with newfound friends, checking social media accounts, playing games and watching movies. Some have dance floors with DJ booths and mocktail or soda bars. A few even have outdoor patio space for sunbathing, occasionally with a hot tub, splash pool or lawn games.

Related: The 5 best cruises for teens

Nurseries and play spaces for younger cruisers have age-appropriate toys and soft flooring, perhaps even a small climbing structure or slide. Nurseries will have a quiet area with cribs and cots in the back for naptime, as well as diaper changing stations.

Kids clubs all have bathrooms in them, often with kid-height facilities.

What activities can my child do in a cruise kids club?

Cruise ship kids clubs offer a mix of free play and guided group activities, so there's something for every child to enjoy.

Kids can enjoy traditional camp activities like arts and crafts, silly group games and scavenger hunts around the ship. They can also get active with sports competitions in the club or up on the ship's sports courts. When it's screen time, kids can challenge each other to video games or gather together to watch a movie on a big screen. Science experiments and puppet shows are also popular activities.

Tween and teen activities lean more toward parties, foosball tournaments, sports and group games, with lots of unstructured time for hanging out. Events might take place around the ship, not just in the tween or teen club.

The youngest cruisers can enjoy story time, song sessions and other toddler games.

Are the kids clubs open all day?

Open hours for cruise kids clubs will vary by ship and itinerary. On one sailing, you might find different opening times for sea days versus port days.

Generally, kids clubs are open from 9 or 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Some will be open until midnight or 1 a.m., and some will charge an hourly rate to watch your kids after 10 or 11 p.m. Some kids clubs might close for lunch or dinner, so be sure to check when you drop off your kids the time you need to pick them up.

On port days, cruise kids clubs often open an hour before disembarkation time, especially clubs that allow parents to drop off their kids and explore in port without them.

Tween and teen clubs might not open until the afternoon to accommodate late sleepers. On the flip side, these clubs will run programming later in the evening without additional fees.

Is there food at cruise kids clubs?

Cruise kids clubs don't generally serve food due to the number and variety of food allergies found in the hundreds of kids who could be on board a ship at any time.

Some cruise ship kids clubs might offer special group lunches or dinners in the buffet or even offer a cooking class. Clubs that offer port day care while parents are ashore will, of course, make sure kids get lunch.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Can kids clubs accommodate children with disabilities?

Cruise lines try to be as accommodating as possible of travelers with disabilities, and the youth staff is happy to work with families to welcome kids with special needs into the kids clubs. However, do not expect one-on-one care or highly trained special needs professionals.

Several lines, such as Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, require youth staff members to undergo autism awareness training. Carnival has partnered with KultureCity to become "sensory inclusive" certified to work with guests with autism, ADHD and Down syndrome. Its kids clubs are stocked with helpful items, such as weighted vests, sensory games and conversation cards.

Families should notify a cruise line's special needs department ahead of sailing to alert them to their child's needs. Once on board, you might be able to move your child to a different age group to be with a sibling or to accommodate developmental differences. Most youth staff cannot help with toileting but might be willing to give caregivers a pager so they can come and help when required.

Alternatively, ship staff might allow a parent or caregiver to accompany a child with special needs to certain kids club activities.

How do cruise kids clubs handle safety?

Youth staff are all carefully vetted; they're required to be first aid-certified and undergo reference and background checks.

Ships have protocols for what to do in case of an emergency if children are in the cruise kids clubs. Youth staff will either bring them to their muster stations or to a central pickup point, and at no time will leave children unattended.

Additionally, kids clubs have rules for fire safety, including a maximum occupancy. During peak family travel times, you might find that you can't drop off your child at the kids club when you wish because it has reached full occupancy, and you'll need to wait for someone to leave before your kid can enter.

Related: Are cruises safe? Here's what you need to know about cruise ship security and safety

Which cruise lines have kids clubs?

All of the big-ship cruise lines have kids clubs. Cruise lines with a greater family focus will often devote more onboard space to youth facilities, though newer, bigger ships will typically have larger kids clubs. Lines like Holland America and Celebrity Cruises are more adult-focused and still have kids clubs, but they might not have the same wow factor.

Here's an overview of the major cruise lines' kids clubs:

Carnival Cruise Line

The Carnival cruise kids club is called Camp Ocean, and its tween and teen clubs are Circle C and Club O2. Camp Ocean takes kids as young as 2 and is divided into three age groups: Penguins (2 to 5 years old), Stingrays (6 to 8 years old) and Sharks (9 to 11 years old).

Celebrity Cruises

Camp at Sea is Celebrity's cruise kids club. Younger cruisers are divided into Shipmates (3 to 5), Cadets (6 to 9) and Captains (10 to 12), and teens (13 to 17) get their own Teen Club. Some ships have a special STEM at Sea program in partnership with the Frost Science Museum.

Disney Cruise Line

The Disney cruise kids club is called the Oceaneer Club, sometimes with a second space called the Oceaneer Lab. Its tween and teen clubs are Edge and Vibe, and it offers the It's a Small World Nursery for babies and tots under 3. The Oceaneer Club is open to kids ages 3 to 10; they can choose from a number of simultaneous activities in the Disney-themed spaces.

Holland America

Holland America's aptly named Kids Club is divided into the Kids Program (ages 3 to 6), Tweens Program (ages 7 to 12) and Teens Program (ages 13 to 17). The kids club does not operate on 25-night or longer cruises, though the line will put on some activities for children sailing on these grand and world voyages.

Norwegian Cruise Line

The Norwegian Cruise Line kids club is named Splash Academy (ages 3 to 12), and its teen club is Entourage (13 to 17). The line also has a Guppies open play program for kids ages 6 months to 3 years, but an adult is required to accompany each child; it's not a drop-off service like the other kids clubs. Additionally, NCL does not offer kids programming when the ship is docked in port.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' kids club, Doremiland, is divided into five clubs based on age: Baby Club (up to 3 years old), Mini Club (ages 3 to 6), Junior Club (7 to 11), Young Club (12 to 14) and Teen Club (15 to 17). MSC Cruises is an outlier in that it offers free drop-off childcare for kids under 3, as well as spaces for parents and their babies and toddlers to play together.

Princess Cruises

The kids club on Princess Cruises is Camp Discovery. Kids ages 3 to 7 hang out in The Treehouse, kids ages 8 to 12 play in The Lodge and teens 13 to 17 hang out in the Beach House. Many activities are inspired by the cruise line's partnership with media company Discovery.

Royal Caribbean

The Royal Caribbean cruise kids club is Adventure Ocean. On newer ships, AO Juniors (kids ages 3 to 5) are separate from AO Kids (ages 6 to 12), while on older ships, they might be divided into separate spaces for Aquanauts (3 to 5 years old), Explorers (6 to 8 years old) and Voyagers (9 to 12 years old). Teens ages 13 to 17 are together in the teen club, and all but a few ships have nurseries for kids ages 6 to 36 months.

Do small ships or luxury lines offer kids clubs?

Some luxury lines embrace children, while others ban them from their decks. In general, most luxury lines will offer some kind of programming during school holidays when more kids than usual are on board.

Luxury cruise lines such as Crystal , Explora Journeys and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection actually have small kids clubs on board with programming either all the time or when enough kids are present. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships do not have youth facilities, but the line runs its Club Mariner Youth Program with age-appropriate activities when enough children are on board.

Lines like Silversea , Seabourn , Oceania and Azamara allow children on board but do not run special programs for them, though you might find an exception during Christmas week or another cruise with a greater-than-usual number of kids on board.

Some lines have age minimums. You must be 18 years old to cruise with Viking and 8 years old on Windstar Cruises .

Related: 12 tips for surviving a luxury cruise with kids

Bottom line

Cruise ship kids clubs provide a safe space for young travelers to meet and hang out with peers and enjoy age-appropriate activities in inviting spaces. The drop-off programming allows parents and caregivers to get some alone time to enjoy the ship's spa, upscale dining venue or adults-only spaces. Kids can join in the fun for as much of the day and evening as they want; many families will spend time on the ship together and only go their separate ways for a few hours per day.

Note that some young cruisers love the kids club and want to spend whole afternoons there, and others go once and refuse to go back. Your child's love or dislike of the kids club might even change over time or with different ships.

My best advice is to send your kid on the first evening to meet the counselors and the other children and to check out the activities when there is no expectation that they stay a certain amount of time. The more they feel that they can control when they go (and not that you are ditching them to have fun without them), the more likely they are to have a good experience.

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Tom Cruise Poses With His and Nicole Kidman's Kids in 1st Public Photo Together in Nearly 15 Years

A recently resurfaced photo of Tom Cruise and his adult children is calling attention to their first public outing together in nearly 15 years.

The rare shot was shared in December 2023 by former NFL star Derrick Brooks, who cheered on the Tampa Bay Lightning at the time alongside Cruise, 61, and his two eldest kids: Bella, 31, and Connor, 29, whom he shares with first wife Nicole Kidman. (Cruise is also dad of 18-year-old Suri, whom he shares with ex-wife Katie Holmes.) While Brooks is a legend in his own right — spending his entire, 14-season career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — he couldn't help but get majorly starstruck over his interaction with Cruise.

"Good Evening, Wow, look who stopped by my office before our @tblightning game tonight! @tomcruise. I was a little star struck but played it cool and He said he was too! 😂😂," the retired linebacker captioned the photo, where he posed between Cruise and Connor, who both flashed bright smiles to the camera. (Bella, for her part, poked her head in from the back in the group picture.)

Cruise and Kidman — who were married for 11 years before finalizing their divorce in 2001 — adopted Bella in 1992, two years after tying the knot. Three years later, they adopted Connor.

While the Cruise kids tend to keep their personal lives close to the vest, Kidman, who also shares two daughters with husband Keith Urban, spoke out about her relationship with Bella and Connor in 2018.

Acknowledging the fact that her two eldest are Scientologists like their dad, the Oscar winner Who magazine at the time:

"I'm very private about all that. I have to protect all those relationships," Kidman shared. "I know 150% that I would give up my life for my children because it's what my purpose is."

Bella and Connor are adults who "are able to make their own decisions," she added. "They have made choices to be Scientologists and, as a mother, it's my job to love them."

Kidman, for her part, made headlines last week when she and Urban stepped out for a rare public event with daughters Sunday Rose, 15, and Faith Margaret, 13 — the teens' first red carpet. The actress' family was on hand to support her at the 49th AFI Life Achievement Award Gala in Los Angeles.

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The 30 Best Jokes and Craziest Moments From Tom Brady’s Netflix Roast, From Gronk Smashing Glasses to Gisele Divorce Puns

By Clayton Davis

Clayton Davis

Senior Awards Editor

• How ‘The Bear’ Could Break Multiple Emmy Records Held by ‘Game of Thrones,’ ’30 Rock’ and ‘Succession’ 1 day ago
• The 30 Best Jokes and Craziest Moments From Tom Brady’s Netflix Roast, From Gronk Smashing Glasses to Gisele Divorce Puns 2 days ago
• Will Ferrell Revives Ron Burgundy and Ben Affleck Skewers Critical Patriot Fans at Tom Brady’s Netflix Roast 2 days ago

It was a long night for Tom Brady at his live Netflix comedy roast, as it was for the rest of us watching from home.

Starting with a bloody OJ Simpson jersey and ending with Brady smashing an iPhone on stage, the Netflix live event, “The Greatest Roast of All-Time: Tom Brady,” honored the seven-time Super Bowl champion. The modern-day legend faced his biggest challenge yet: being roasted by comedians and his former NFL teammates.

The QB took so many hits regarding his failed marriage to supermodel Gisele Bündchen, which was surprising in moments where it didn’t seem to let up for a single moment, bringing some of the evening’s biggest laughs. Nonetheless, the “joke of the night” came from the GOAT himself when addressing Kim Kardashian and referencing her ex-husband Kanye West: “I know Kim was terrified to be here tonight. Not because of this, but because her kids are at home with their dad.”

When Kardashian took the stage to toast Brady, she was met with an onslaught of audible boos, but host Kevin Hart came to her aid.

Part of Netflix Is a Joke Fest , “Greatest Roasts of All Time: Tom Brady” featured the former quarterback, known for his 20 seasons with the New England Patriots and three with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, taking humorous jabs from some of the biggest names in comedy. Hosted by Hart and roastmaster Jeff Ross, the event included Brady’s former teammates Julian Edelman, Rob Gronkowski and Drew Bledsoe, as well as stand-up comics Tom Segura, Nikki Glaser, Andrew Schulz, Bert Kreischer, Tony Hinchcliffe, Sam Jay and more.

“We’re here to roast the greatest quarterback of all time,” Hart quipped. “Oh, wait, Joe Montana’s here?”

Brady made a grand entrance onto a stage surrounded by his former teammates, exclaiming to the crowd, “Are you guys ready? It’s game time. Let’s go!”

VIP tables, occupied by Chelsea Handler, Jim Gaffigan, Shane Gillis and Netflix executives Ted Sarandos and Bela Bajaria, encircled the stage, adding to the star-studded atmosphere of the event.

Brady’s former teammate Gronkowski took the spotlight with the most peculiar moments of the night, delivering a sometimes incoherent barrage of jokes that culminated in smashing a glass on the stage, causing it to shatter and send shards flying onto nearby tables.

Here are some of the 30 best jokes and craziest moments from the special (in no particular order):

• “This is where Jerry Buss laid his dick out. This was called the Fucking Forum.” – Kevin Hart
• “Tom brought Boston with him tonight. I’ve never seen Inglewood so white. It looks like a Bruce Springsteen concert just let out. This used to be the home of the Lakers; now it’s the home of the Quakers.” – Kevin Hart
• “It’s been two years since Tom has gotten divorced. And since then, Tom’s been fucking. Tom has been putting that two-inch tool to work. Tom has been fucking so much; his dick has gotten CTE.” — Kevin Hart
• “You know who else fucked that coach? Gisele. She fucked that karate man…. eight karate classes a day, and she’s still a white belt?” — Kevin Hart
• “Chelsea Handler is here… Speaking of Black dick, Kim is here tonight.”
• “I’ve just come from hell. Aaron Hernandez says hello.” — Jeff Ross
• “I had to dress like OJ because I’m about to kill this white bitch right here.” — Jeff Ross
• “You really put the Jizz in Gisele.” — Jeff Ross
• “I really wanted Kevin [Hart] to host because he already looks like a deflated football.” — Jeff Ross
• “Surely, if Mark Twain were around today, he would call you a N…. a national treasure.” — Jeff Ross
• “I love you, Dana; you’re like Michael Vick but with human beings.” — Jeff Ross
• “We’re doing it Boston-style tonight. You know, it’s going to marathon, and somebody’s gonna bomb.” — Jeff Ross
• “We wanted to roast you in Florida, but because of your governor, we wouldn’t have been able to call you gay.” — Jeff Ross
• “Tom Brady. Five-time Super Bowl MVP, most career wins, most career touchdowns. You have seven rings — well, eight, now that Gisele gave hers back. The only thing dumber than saying yes to this roast was when you said, ‘Hey babe, you should try jiu-jitsu.’” — Nikki Glaser
• “I’m the best decision your organization has ever made. Would you like a massage?”– Jeff Ross
• “Why the fuck didn’t we cheat when I was there?” — Randy Moss
• “The only difference between Tom Brady and Hitler is that Hitler stuck with his wife until the end.” — Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer
• “I love your movies, or as I like to call them, short films.” — Nikki Glaser towards Kevin Hart
• “Your ex-wife’s new boyfriend can kick your ass while eating hers.” — Nikki Glaser
• “Tom also lost $30 million in crypto… Tom, how did you fall for that? Even Gronk was like, ‘Me know that’s not real money.” — Nikki Glaser
• “That’s why Dana [White] is here, so you can learn how to fuck a Brazilian out of half their purse. Sorry, that was a Gisele quote” — Andrew Schulz
• “Or, as I like to call him, Leonardo DiCaprio‘s ex-girlfriend’s ex-husband.” — Julian Edelman
• “This stage has seen more trauma than a Kennedy on the campaign trail.” — Andrew Schulz
• “ACL is the only injury Gronk can spell.” — Andrew Schulz
• “Nikki, who wrote that? Where was that, your entire career?” — Tony Hinchcliffe
• “Bert Kreischer is a king. He looks like the Tiger King, and the Liver King only ate Burger King and had a liver that looked like Martin Luther King, who got beat up by Rodney King.” — Tony Hinchcliffe
• “Your Super Bowl ring is just like my strap-on; just because you put it on doesn’t mean it’s real.” — Sam Jay
• “My kids now excuse themselves to the bathroom by saying I have to go take a Brady.” — Peyton Manning
• “Despite everything we’ve seen here tonight, Gronk was actually useful on the field. Although the bar for Patriots tight ends was pretty low back then: block, catch, don’t murder.” — Tom Brady
• “You retired, then you came back, and then you retired again. I mean, I get it, it’s hard to walk away from something that’s not your pregnant girlfriend.” — Nikki Glaser

Matt Donnelly contributed to this report.

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