no kid cruises

Virgin Voyages says no kids on the ocean. And the kids aren’t pleased.

Richard Branson launched Virgin Voyages to create an adults only cruise experience at sea — a place where adults, including moms and dads, could set out on the open ocean unanchored from all the responsibilities back at home. You know, like waking up at 5 am because both of your children had something extremely important to tell you (the twist? It wasn’t important).

What no one, including Richard, could see coming? The backlash from the kids. The sugar-induced uproar of the children who can’t come on board. And even the petitions ( which Richard can tell you all about in his blog ). 

Have a look below and see exactly how the kids feel about us being exclusively adult.

Looking for the ultimate adults only vacation, without kids—your own or anyone else's? Book your next cruise vacation on Virgin Voyages. 

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Come aboard our adults-only cruises for a kids-free getaway at sea., nama-stay... on our wellness retreat at sea., adult-by-design: 18+ adults only cruises by virgin voyages.

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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.

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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Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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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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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 .

Related Articles

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

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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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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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 !

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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 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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“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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The Growing List of Kid-Free Travel Zones and Destinations

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Traveling with kids can be fun, crazy and -- just perhaps -- a little loud and chaotic. Adults-only destinations and resorts are hardly a new concept but, over the last few years, no-kids-allowed policies have been spreading beyond resorts to include airplanes and cruises.

(And by the way, the newest splashy kid-free destination in the US is a brand-new all-inclusive resort in Key Largo that looks pretty amazing .)

To get a feel for the broader state of "no kids allowed," here's a list of major airlines, cruise lines and resorts where children aren't allowed to travel.

Kid-Free Cruising

Viking says no to kids.

Viking Cruises already had restrictions in place regarding children on its various cruises, but according to its terms , the cruise line took things a step further last year. For all cruises booked after Aug. 1, 2018, passengers must be 18 years old on or before the day they embark. However, cruises through 2019 that were booked before Aug. 1 may still have passengers under 18 as long as they were booked before the child ban went into place — just don't expect kid-focused amenities.

Richard Branson Launches Adult-Only Cruises Next Year

In April 2020, Virgin Voyages will set sail with free Wi-Fi, "rock star" suites and even a vinyl record store and tattoo parlor. But one thing that won't be on board are children as all sailings are for those 18 and up. While the cruise line is still a year from bon voyage, you can make your bookings now for ports like Havana and Virgin's private island in the Bahamas. Prices for various cruises start at $1,500–$4,000 per cabin for two, with the first few cruises pricing at the highest rates. There are also solo cabins at single-traveler rates that start at around $1,000.

Airlines With Child-Free Zones

How many times have you heard an adult passenger complain about crying babies or energetic toddlers seated near them on an airplane? A quick search on social media brings up plenty of pleas for child-free zones on airplanes, even if it costs extra.

There aren't any US airlines with child-free — or even child-friendly — seating areas, but internationally there are a few.

AirAsia X Quiet Zone

AirAsia X has a "Quiet Zone" encompassing rows 7–14 that's only available to passengers who are at least 10 years old. The airline's website states that this area has "gentle ambient lighting," early meal service and "minimal noise with no disturbances." Some test searches show these seats are available for an additional $25–$55 per person.

Scoot in Silence

Scoot Airlines, a low-cost airline based in Singapore, also has a quiet zone at the front of its 787 Dreamliners. In this area, no kids under 12 are allowed. In addition to the child-free atmosphere, seats in this section come with an adjustable headrest and you can opt for Super or Stretch seats, depending on the aircraft but both with extra legroom.

IndiGo Quiet Zones

Indian budget carrier IndiGo also offers "Quiet Zones" where children under the age of 12 aren't permitted. These child-free rows are 1–4 and 11–14 — the rows were reportedly designated with business travelers in mind. Beyond those restrictions, children aren't allowed to sit in seats with additional legroom.

No Babies in First Class on Malaysia

Back in 2011, Malaysia Airlines banned babies from first class on its 747 and A380 aircraft and didn't install bassinets in its first-class cabin. I cannot find anything on Malaysia's website that indicates babies are officially banned from the first-class cabin, but when I do test bookings with an infant, there's a pop-up warning stating that there are no bassinets available in the first class cabin. We've reached out to Malaysia for clarification on its infant policy.

Use Points to Book Adults-Only Resorts

Even within the award travel space, there are places you can use your hotel points to enjoy a few child-free days and nights.

Miraval Resort and Spa

Miraval in Arizona -- now with a companion resort in Texas -- is an all-inclusive wellness retreat that we enjoyed for an anniversary celebration . Paid rates can soar to more than $1,000 per night and include yoga, classes and meals, but you can also put your World of Hyatt points to use to relax and recenter.

Standard rooms are available at Miraval for 45,000 World of Hyatt points for single occupancy, or 65,000 points for double occupancy . However, the resort occasionally runs specials that can save you 50% on the award rates .

To go along with the original Miraval in Tucson, there is also now the Miraval Austin that falls into the same award pricing structure and also boasts a child-free experience.

Hyatt Zilara All-Inclusive Resorts

Hyatt has a network of nice all-inclusive resorts under the Ziva and Zilara brands. The Ziva brand is family-friendly, but the Zilara brand is just for adults, so get the points on your World of Hyatt Credit Card ready for kid-free relaxation.

You can redeem your World of Hyatt points to visit either the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall in Jamaica or the Hyatt Zilara Cancun. The family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Cancun also has an adults-only tower, Turquoize, and a lovely adults-only rooftop pool. Both the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall and Cancun properties cost 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night for double occupancy. Remember, you can also instantly transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio from your Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

Hyatt is expanding its kids-free offerings, with the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, another adults-only destination, under construction in the Dominican Republic with an opening scheduled for later in 2019.

Wyndham Rewards

Wyndham Rewards uses a flat award chart with all properties costing 15,000 points per night ( at least for a few more weeks ). So for 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night, you can leave the kids with the grandparents and book an all-inclusive, adults-only stay in the Dominican Republic at the Viva Wyndham V Samana and Viva Wyndham V Heavens.

Hilton Honors

Hilton Jewel Dunn's River Resort & Spa in Ocho Rios is an all-inclusive resort for those 18 years and up. You can book this property for 44,000–70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

The all-inclusive Hilton Puerto Vallarta has recently opened a new Hacienda section comprised of 192 junior suites that are only available to those 18 and over. Award rates to stay at this all-inclusive resort normally range from 44,000-70,000 Hilton Honors points for double occupancy. However, the rooms within the Hacienda priced for me as premium rooms at higher award rates, so you may do better off earning up to 54 Hilton points per dollar spent on those rooms, rather than using points.

Hilton Playa del Carmen is another 18+, all-inclusive destination that can be booked for 80,000 Hilton points per night, double occupancy. Rooms there start at 653-square-feet junior suites, which is pretty massive when you don't have to share the space with little ones. Here are ways to rack up Hilton points for these kid-free stays.

Beyond these examples, many overwater resorts, resorts with private pools for each villa, safaris, retreats and more either don't permit children or have age minimums of at least 10 to 12 years old.

Stay at a New Florida All-Inclusive Resort

Bungalows Key Largo is not a traditional points hotel, but that doesn't mean it is off-limits with rewards. The new adults-only luxury resort opened in early 2019 and describes itself as an "island oasis built for downtime and disconnecting." It is located 65 miles south of Miami International Airport (MIA) and bookings can be made directly with the resort and then the charge can be offset using fixed value miles such as those from the Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. Prices start at $399 per person, per night for a minimum two-night stay through Dec. 19, 2019 (blackout dates and restrictions apply).

More Child-Free Travel Options to Come

In the past, Richard Branson suggested that he "would love to introduce kids' class" in the sky. It hasn't happened yet, among other reasons, because the UK Civil Aviation Authority is reportedly worried about what would happen in case of emergency if children were alone in one cabin and their parents in another. Branson hasn't ironed out the logistics for a kid-free inflight zone, but his child-free cruises will launch soon.

I can't imagine Carnival Cruises would ever go kid-free, but even Carnival offers a Serenity Adult Only Retreat on many of its ships with amenities like hammocks and a bar . Disney Cruise Line also has multiple indoor and outdoor adults-only sections of its ships. So even if you aren't indulging in adults-only travel, you can still find some kid-free spaces such as the Serenity Retreat at Carnival or The District on Disney.

Even at the family-friendly capital of the world, Disney World, you can escape kiddos by heading to Trader Sam's Grog Grotto at the Polynesian Village Resort , where children are not allowed in after 8pm. Or stay at the yet-to-open Riviera Resort that will have Tower Studios built just for two . Not exactly the same as kid-free, but certainly not geared to families either.

As a parent who sometimes travels without kids but often travels as a whole crew, I have no issues with kid-free spaces, even on airplanes. However, it would be great if a family-friendly zone was also created. This video from Virgin Australia is, sadly, an April Fool's joke, but wouldn't it be cool if it was actually real?!

Protect Your Trip »

The 8 best alaska cruises for families.

Plan your next family vacation to explore the boundless beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

A cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime family or multigenerational vacation. With unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures that you won't find anywhere else in the world – not to mention scenic cruising days on the ship to spend time together – this special experience will stay with you forever.

For an extended vacation in the 49th state, consider booking a cruisetour. This combined cruise and pre- or post-cruise land tour option is offered by many of the larger cruise lines. The tours visit some of the top attractions in the state , such as Denali National Park and Preserve, and often include picturesque rides into Alaska's remote wilderness aboard the Alaska Railroad. Some tours also head north to Fairbanks and visit Kenai Fjords National Park or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (or both, in some cases). You can choose between fully escorted adventures or laid-back options to explore on your own, depending on what works best for your family.

Ready to book your Alaska adventure? These eight cruise lines offer excellent family-friendly excursions ashore , plus plenty of onboard activities to keep both kids and parents entertained during days at sea.

Find your perfect cruise

Princess Cruises: 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay

Departure city: Vancouver, British Columbia

The 2024 cruise season brings Princess' 55th-anniversary sailing to The Great Land, and the line is offering more than 150 Alaska voyages between April and September. The popular Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay itinerary northbound from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska , is available on dozens of dates this season on Grand Princess , Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The sailing includes stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord in Alaska. If you prefer a smaller ship, choose Grand Princess or Sapphire Princess, which hold 2,610 and 2,680 passengers (double occupancy), respectively. Meanwhile, Royal Princess accommodates 3,560 guests at double occupancy.

The Princess Cruises North to Alaska program features immersive, family-friendly opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the 49th state. Guests can sample fresh local seafood and meet famous Alaskans such as Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod dog race. In Skagway, families can meet some of the newest sled dogs and their handlers during Puppies in the Piazza on the ship. Younger cruisers and teens can participate in the Alaska Explorers Youth Program in partnership with Glacier Bay National Park and the Discovery Channel, which includes activities like the "Deadliest Catch" Crab Sort Challenge.

The North to Alaska program also partners with Discovery and Animal Planet to feature onboard exhibits about Alaska, as well as curated excursions like the White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure in Skagway, which was created by a train historian. Back on the ship, kids and teens can hang out with other young cruisers their age at Camp Discovery's Treehouse (ages 3 to 7), Lodge (8 to 12) or Beach House (13 to 17). In addition, be sure to keep an eye out for Princess Cruises' Alaska mascot: Stanley the Bear. You might even find him during story time at the kids clubs wearing a captain's uniform or destination-themed costumes, such as lumberjack gear in Ketchikan.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Alaska – Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Departure city: Seattle, Washington

This seven-day round-trip voyage from Seattle is available on Norwegian Bliss from April to September during the line's 2024 Alaska season. The sailing includes the ports of Sitka, Juneau , Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan (Ward Cove), plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an evening stop in Victoria, British Columbia , before disembarking in Seattle. Norwegian Bliss can carry 4,004 passengers at double occupancy and 4,266 passengers at maximum capacity.

The entire family will enjoy excursions like the Whale Watching & Bear Search tour in Icy Strait Point, while thrill-seekers of all ages will want to book an adrenaline-pumping ride down the mountain on the massive ZipRider zip line. In Ketchikan, take a hike through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S., where you might catch glimpses of wildlife like black bears or bald eagles. You can also head offshore from Ketchikan aboard the Aleutian Ballad, the famed ship from Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch," to pick up the day's bounty of king crab and search for marine wildlife along Alaska's Inside Passage.

Plenty of family activities and entertainment options are offered on this Norwegian Cruise Line ship, including the Bliss Speedway, a two-level racetrack at sea; laser tag; mini-golf; an interactive aqua park with waterslides that zip above the side of the ship; a video arcade; and live entertainment. You'll also find kids clubs designed for younger children and teens , as well as adults-only escapes like Vibe Beach Club and Spice H2O. When it comes to dining, there's no shortage of casual fare for hungry kids at venues like the Garden Café buffet, American Diner and The Local Bar & Grill.

Disney Cruise Line: 7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

This seven-night itinerary aboard Disney Wonder departs round-trip from Vancouver on several voyages throughout the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September. The weeklong Disney Cruise Line sailing includes glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap and stops in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. Plus, you'll enjoy plenty of Disney fun on board, with character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, and entertaining activities and venues for kids and adults alike.

Many of the ship's nautical-themed staterooms are designed with families in mind and feature a "split bath" concept and extra under-bed storage for suitcases. Disney Wonder can hold 1,750 passengers at double occupancy and 2,700 passengers at maximum capacity. The ship's unique rotational dining venues include an "under the sea" adventure at Triton's, a dinner show with Disney characters at Animator's Palate and Southern specialties with jazz music at Tiana's Place. For a night out sans kids, adults can savor a quiet evening with northern Italian cuisine at Palo or nosh on casual pub fare at Crown & Fin Pub. Younger sailors will find age-appropriate spaces at Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab, tween venue Edge, and teen club Vibe.

Disney's excursions also offer family fun ashore – especially in Skagway. Try panning for gold with Disney characters like Donald Duck, then feast on baked Alaska salmon at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp. You can also take an extended six-hour tour by boat into Alaska's deepest fjord, Lynn Canal, then hike through the rainforest to reach your canoe for a wilderness safari at Glacier Point. For a bucket list splurge, reserve a spot on the helicopter flightseeing tour that includes dog mushing on the Denver Glacier with a team of Alaska sled dogs.

Holland America Line: 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America's Koningsdam will sail the line's seven-day Inside Passage itinerary more than 20 times between April and September in 2024. This round-trip voyage embarks in Vancouver and includes multiple days of scenic cruising. You'll sail through the Inside Passage for two days; through Tracy Arm Inlet, where you can disembark for a shore excursion; and through Glacier Bay, where the Junior Ranger Program is a highlight for kids. The ports of call on this itinerary are Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan in Alaska.

Koningsdam features dedicated family staterooms with beds for up to five guests, two bathrooms and extra closet space. The ship carries 2,650 guests at double occupancy and 3,194 passengers at maximum capacity. A wildlife expert on the ship helps guests spot Alaska's incredible marine and land animals through announcements and during daily programs. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, moose, brown bears and other wildlife. While in the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area, you'll want to take the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to explore glacier-covered mountains, jagged cliffs and the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. surrounding the fjord. On a high-speed catamaran, you'll get up-close views of the Sawyer Glaciers and have potential sightings of harbor seals, bears, mountain goats and more.

Back on board, Holland America Line 's kids club offers supervised, age-appropriate activities for young cruisers ages 3 to 17 – including children who may need certain accommodations. You'll also find plenty of family-friendly options for dining on Koningsdam, including Lido Market, New York Pizza and the poolside Dive In grill. During the cruise, look for themed evenings in the Lido Market like salmon bakes or seafood boil pop-up dinners, which are in line with Holland America's commitment to serving certified sustainable and traceable Alaska seafood. An Alaska brunch is also offered once during the voyage in the main dining room; you'll enjoy dishes highlighting ingredients from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Royal Caribbean International: 7 Night Alaska Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Hop aboard Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas for the seven-night Alaska Adventure Cruise, sailing round-trip from Seattle . This itinerary is available on several dates between May and August 2024 and features stops in the towns of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an afternoon call in the Canadian city of Victoria. While there, book an off-roading excursion through the coastal rainforest that includes a zip line adventure. Or, take a self-guided tour through Victoria's famed Butchart Gardens and the tropical Butterfly Gardens filled with wildlife.

Quantum of the Seas – which holds 4,180 passengers at double occupancy and 4,905 passengers at maximum capacity – is one of the two larger Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska in 2024 (Ovation of the Seas is the other). As such, it offers abundant activities and entertainment for families at sea. On board, guests can experience Ripcord by iFly (the only skydiving simulator at sea) and take in snow-capped mountain views from the FlowRider surf simulator or atop the ship's rock climbing wall. Other onboard activities include bumper cars, an escape room, an arcade, pickleball and The Silent Party (a dance party where everyone wears headphones).

At mealtime, kids will have plenty of choices for casual and quick bites, from carefully crafted hot dogs at the Dog House and specialty pies at Sorrento's Pizza to around-the-clock snacks at Café Promenade and grab-and-go fare at The Café@Two70. When the little ones want to play or chill out with kids their age, Adventure Ocean offers activities for children 3 to 12 years old. Meanwhile, teens can meet other 13- to 17-year-olds at the Hideout Hangout.

Carnival Cruise Line: 7-Day Alaska from Seattle, WA

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Departure city: Juneau, Alaska

Carnival's 2024 Alaska season runs from May to September, with the 7-Day Alaska from Seattle itinerary available every month during that time. The round-trip sailing aboard Carnival Luminosa stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. You'll enjoy scenic cruising in Victoria and through Tracy Arm Fjord. You'll also have one "fun day at sea" to check out the activities and entertainment on the ship, which offers a double occupancy capacity of 2,260 passengers and a maximum capacity of 2,826 passengers.

Younger sailors ages 2 to 11 can join in on ocean-themed games, songs and programming at Camp Ocean, while tweens and teens (ages 12 to 17) can participate in destination-focused activities at See the World. Club 02 is a designated space for guests ages 15 to 17 to watch movies, play sports and video games, and more. Families can enjoy Dive-In Movies together at Carnival Seaside Theater and watch live musical productions at Playlist Productions. When it comes to dining on Carnival , families will have a choice of several casual restaurants to satisfy finicky eaters, including Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, Lido Marketplace and Swirls for soft serve ice cream. For a special night out, make reservations at the Steakhouse, which costs extra but offers reduced prices for children 11 and younger.

When going ashore, Juneau offers many family-friendly excursions – some of which you may not have the chance to experience anywhere else in the world. The Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery takes guests airborne by bush plane over the five glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. After the ride, you'll land in the Taku River at the historic Taku Lodge, which sits across from Juneau's largest glacier, the Taku Glacier. At the lodge, you'll feast on a bountiful meal featuring homemade side dishes and one of the best-known local seafood specialties, Alaska king salmon.

Celebrity Cruises: 7 Nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's seven-night Alaska Hubbard Glacier itinerary is available on nine voyages between May and September 2024. The Celebrity Solstice (which holds 2,852 guests at double occupancy) sails round-trip from Vancouver and stops in the ports of Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. You'll have two days of scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and around Hubbard Glacier. While in Icy Strait Point, book a guided nature walk excursion along the "Trail of the Bears" in the bush country of the Spasski River Valley. During your search for Alaska's coastal brown bears, you'll also learn about the Tlingit culture and community in Hoonah, and perhaps even see Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles.

Back on the ship, Celebrity's Camp at Sea program entertains children, tweens and teens ages 3 to 17 with four different age-appropriate programs: Shipmates (ages 3 to 5), Cadets (ages 6 to 9), Captains (ages 10 to 12) and Teens (ages 13 to 17). The customizable activities change every cruise and are based on the interests of the participants. Celebrity also offers autism-friendly activities and services for families on board.

When it comes to dining options on the ship, families will find kid-friendly selections on the in-room dining menu and at the main restaurant. For quick casual fare, head to the buffet-style Oceanview Café or to the Mast Grill for burgers and other grab-and-go bites. If you want healthier dishes, the Spa Café offers homemade energy bars, acai bowls, turkey wraps and other light choices.

UnCruise Adventures: Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

If you prefer a small-ship cruise experience without the bells and whistles of some larger vessels, UnCruise offers adventure-style cruises to Alaska on its fleet of safari- and expedition-style ships. With these intimate cruises, you and the kids (ages 8 and older) can get up close to glaciers, wildlife and Alaska's vast wilderness directly from the ship via Zodiacs and kayaks. You may even see wildlife from a short distance away along the shoreline, as UnCruise vessels are able to sail into smaller waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships.

The line's Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise features two full days in pristine Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve aboard the Wilderness Discoverer, which holds a maximum of 76 passengers. Here, guests can hike along remote coastlines amid old-growth forests, view sea life up close and go birding at South Marble Island. You'll also have the opportunity to see several tidewater glaciers, go kayaking in the Keku Islands and explore Neka Bay on Chichagof Island. Another highlight is a visit to Glacier Bay Lodge at Bartlett Cove, the only hotel accommodations in the 3.3 million-acre national park. The seven-night itinerary departs round-trip from Juneau and is offered between April and September 2024.

The full itinerary includes stops in Icy Strait and Neka Bay; Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve; Chichagof Island (which boasts the world's largest population of brown bears per square mile); Frederick Sound; and Tracy Arm and the Sawyer Glaciers. During the weeklong cruise, you'll have narration by expert onboard guides and embark on some of the most memorable adventures your kids will ever have in Alaska's remote wilderness.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top All-Inclusive Family Resorts

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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Best Cruises for Kids: The 6 Most Kid-Friendly Cruise Lines and Cruise Ships

Wading through the bevy of activities, kids' clubs , family cabins and " kids sail free cruises " to find the best family cruise is a mammoth task. To make the decision even trickier, ships vary greatly, so the question becomes not simply what is the best family line, but what are the best cruise ships for kids?

The cruise lines and recommended ships that follow are our top picks for family cruises . We tend to recommend cruise lines' newer ships, because the facilities have been designed for families with kids from the outset and have more space for fun activities such as water parks , ropes courses and rock-climbing walls.

Every family's travel style is different, however, so these are certainly not the only ships to consider. Think of them as a starting point as you narrow your choices for fun, kid-friendly cruises.

On This Page

• Kid-Friendly Cruises on Royal Caribbean International
• Kid-Friendly Cruises on Disney Cruise Line
• Kid-Friendly Cruises on P&O Cruises
• Kid-Friendly Cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line
• Kid-Friendly Cruises on Princess Cruises
• Kid-Friendly Cruises on MSC Cruises

1. Kid-Friendly Cruises on Royal Caribbean International

Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Kids

Anthem of the Seas , Wonder of the Seas , Odyssey of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , Harmony of the Seas , Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas

Why Royal Caribbean Ships Are Great for Kids

Whether you’re traveling with a toddler or a teenager , Royal Caribbean is one of the top family cruise lines around. The cruise line's largest ships are the best Royal Caribbean vessels for kids of all ages, as well as for multigenerational family groups.

You’ll be hard-pressed to ever feel bored during a Royal Caribbean family cruise. The line’s Oasis-class ships have an impressive selection of family-friendly activities and entertainment -- multiple pools, a 3D theater, rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rink, two FlowRider surf simulators , a zipline and parades in the indoor promenade, as well as a beloved Royal Caribbean kids' program.

The cruise line’s newest Oasis-class ships -- Wonder of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas -- feature even more kid-friendly extras. That includes the Ultimate Abyss slide, a 10-story light-and-sound filled drop that ends at the Boardwalk (children must be at least 43 inches tall to slide). The entrance is through the open jaws of a massive anglerfish -- probably the most terrifying part of the whole ordeal, as the ride is over in a matter of seconds.

Anthem of the Seas has a more sophisticated vibe, but many of its attractions are great for families. They include the SeaPlex (featuring bumper cars, roller skating, video games and more), the first skydiving simulator at sea, and the North Star , a London Eye-esque ride that takes passengers in a glass capsule 300 feet above the ocean.

There's also the stunning aft theater, Two70 , with performances that showcase the ship's mind-blowing technology.

Adults-only solariums are perfect for parents and grandparents, and there are a plethora of dining and evening entertainment options.

With nursery care and after-hours fun in the kids' clubs, grownup time is easy to book in the evenings while kids play or sleep. ( Voyager - and Freedom-class ships are also great choices when it comes to kids and cruises.)

The Royal Caribbean Kids' Club

Royal Caribbean family cruise packages include free daytime and early evening access to its popular kids’ clubs . A sizable amount of real estate is dedicated to them, with separate areas for toddlers, kids and tweens/teens.

You'll also find a theater, arts and crafts workshop, science lab, video arcade and the Scratch DJ Academy (not on Anthem of the Seas ).

The Royal Tots and Royal Babies programs provide interactive classes and activities (when children are accompanied by a parent) for children from 6 months to 36 months old. Drop-off babysitting services and toddler-friendly play spaces are also available.

The Adventure Ocean play spaces cater to Aquanauts (ages 3 to 5), Explorers (6 to 8) and Voyagers (9 to 11). Tweens and teens (12 to 17) have their Living Room coffeehouse-style hangout and Fuel disco.

You can rest assured knowing that your children are in good hands because the Royal Caribbean kids' program counselors are some of the friendliest and most engaging in the business.

Additional Royal Caribbean Kid-Friendly Features

Royal Caribbean offers affordable family cruises, with a Royal Caribbean kids sail free program and other discounts on third and fourth passengers appearing occasionally throughout the year.

Onboard the ships, plenty of family cabins and loft suites mean room for the family to spread out. There's even a Royal Family cabin that sleeps eight, and Symphony of the Seas , Spectrum of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas ’ Ultimate Family Suite with a two-deck slide, LEGO wall and games aplenty.

More than two-dozen dining options, including casual eateries like a hot dog joint and a New York-style pizza joint, as well as a variety of upscale specialty restaurants , meaning no taste is overlooked.

Johnny Rockets , the 1950s-style luncheonette, is always a kid magnet (and parents think it's pretty cool, too). Excellent Broadway-style shows in the evenings will keep the older crowd engaged, while parades and ice skating shows will "wow" the whole family. The spa offers special treatments for teens .

2. Kid-Friendly Cruises on Disney Cruise Line

The Best Disney Cruise Ship for Kids

The entire fleet: Disney Wish , Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic and Disney Wonder .

Why Disney Cruises Ships Are Great for Kids

Known worldwide for its epic theme parks, Disney offers some of the best family cruises. They are particularly outstanding for those traveling with youngsters.

Disney ships, including the newest, Disney Wish , which debuted in 2022, are ideal for families with kids ages 4 to 11, as Disney has the best facilities, food options and programs for this age group.

Disney Cruise Line has done a lot more to accommodate tweens and teens -- but its ships offer the best cruise for small kids, hands down. We prefer the line's biggest ships, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, but the refurbished Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are great choices for Disney family cruises, as well.

The Disney Cruise Kids' Club Is One of the Best in Cruising

Disney takes a unique separate-but-together approach to its kids’ programming, mainly to accommodate siblings and friends traveling together. Disney Cruises kids' clubs' ages generally span from 3 to 12, with other options for teens. The Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab allow children ages 3 to 12, with programming geared toward younger children in the Club and older children in the Lab.

The Oceaneer Club offers several themed play areas that are different on each ship, including Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars: Cargo Bay and Fairytale Hall on Disney Wish.

Disney Dream features a replica of the Millennium Falcon from "Star Wars," where young ones can play pilot or learn lightsaber techniques from a Jedi Master. The Oceaneer Lab has an Animator's Studio and a mini sound studio.

Disney's ships also feature Edge, a tweens club for ages 11 to 14 that includes video games and karaoke. The teen club, Vibe (for cruisers ages 14 to 17), has a fun coffee shop feel. There is also a nursery (which costs extra) available to care for the youngest cruisers, ages 6 months to 3 years.

In short, Disney family cruises are excellent choices for families and leave little room for boredom for everyone.

Additional Disney Cruise Features for Kids (Including Family Rooms)

From kid-friendly activities to family rooms and family cruise packages , Disney cruises are packed with family-pleasing extras. That includes a kids' pool and family pool along with the popular AquaDuck water slide on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, while you'll find the AquaDunk on Disney Magic and AquaMouse on Disney Wish.

The AquaLab has sprayers and geysers perfect for the smallest passengers on all but Disney Dream. Other great facilities include the Walt Disney Theatre, which features live shows featuring Disney favorites (such as " Tangled, the Musical " and " Frozen, the Musical "); the Buena Vista Theatre, which screens first-run movies; and D Lounge, which presents interactive activities for kids and parents.

Disney family rooms offer room-dividing curtains, bunk beds with twinkle-light constellations and plenty of storage. The spacious bathrooms in most cabins allows folks to shower in one while someone else is using the toilet in the other.

Disney's ships also hold a cool "Pirates of the Caribbean" deck party, complete with fireworks and Jack Sparrow rappelling off the ship's funnel. Other themed events on select sailings include Star Wars Day at Sea , Marvel Day at Sea and special Halloween and Christmas events throughout the fall.

All ships feature the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique , where children are transformed into princesses, pirates, knights and sea captains.

Onboard restaurants successfully keep kids entertained while allowing parents to enjoy the meal, as well. For example, in Animator's Palate , animated dinner shows include "Finding Nemo" characters conversing with passengers and kids' drawings coming to life; at Rapunzel's Royal Table , "Tangled" characters perform songs between courses.

Waitstaff will cut your kids' food and the Disney cruise kids' menu offers an array of kid favorites, such as mini-burgers and macaroni and cheese. Two onboard restaurants are adults-only so parents/guardians can take advantage of the kids’ club and enjoy their own evening together.

3. Kid-Friendly Cruises on P&O Cruises

The Most Kid-Friendly P&O Cruises Ships

Iona , Britannia and Arvia

Why P&O Cruises Ships Are Great for Kids

While P&O Cruises cannot be included in the “cheap family cruises” category, this time-honored British cruise line has long been popular for its packed program for young sailors and families.

Its handful of family-oriented ships feature well-equipped and age-appropriate kids’ clubs, a range of family cabins and family-friendly dining options. There are sports activities like archery, football, basketball and dedicated splash pools.

The line’s newest Excel Class ships, Iona and Arvia , feature a wide variety of family dining options and a four-screen cinema called Ocean Studios, showing family-friendly films. Many shows at the main theater, Headliners, are also suitable for younger family members.

The line’s first high-ropes experience, Altitude Skywalk, launched alongside Altitude Minigolf on Arvia.

This cruise line is also hot on its kid-friendly shore excursions , such as kayaking, bike rides, trips to beaches, boat tours and to the summit of volcanoes or snow-covered mountains.

P&O Cruises Kids' Club

Parents adore the kids’ club on P&O Cruises . The Reef, the main kids' club, is divided into rooms for each age group with brightly adorned spaces filled with fun activities and age-appropriate toys.

The P&O family cruise package includes complimentary access to the kids' clubs . With designated spaces and staff overseeing age-appropriate activities, the clubs are broken down into four age-groups: Splashers (2 to 4 years), Surfers (5 to 8 years), Scubas (9 to 12 years) and H2O (13 to 17 years).

For the under twos, there’s a nursery with its own area and organized activities . Keep in mind that children in this age group need to be accompanied by their parents/guardians at all times.

Other Kid-Friendly Features on P&O Cruises

We love that kids can experience finger sandwiches and cakes at the children’s afternoon tea -- and there’s no shortage of pizza and complimentary ice cream onboard.

One of P&O Cruises’ standout offerings for many parents has been the free-of-charge, supervised Night Nursery for children under four years of age.

4. Kid-Friendly Cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line

Best NCL Ships for Kids

Norwegian Escape ,  Norwegian Breakaway ,  Norwegian Getaway ,  Norwegian Epic , Norwegian Prima , Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star

Why Norwegian Cruise Line Ships Are Great for Kids

Norwegian's casual atmosphere makes it one of the best options for a family cruise -- particularly for families who don't want to be beholden to strict dining times, venues and dress codes . Its affordable rates make it a great pick for those looking for cheap family cruises , too.

Norwegian cruise ships for kids include the line’s newest vessels, which offer all the mega-ship bells and whistles families have come to expect (though we found NCL Encore and Bliss to have a more adult vibe).

NCL Kids' Club: Splash Academy

Norwegian's Splash Academy features separate activities for kids ages 3 to 5, 6 to 9 and 10 to 12. Children can do arts and crafts, sing karaoke and play video games. The kids' club on NCL Epic has a jungle gym, plenty of room to roam and a cool interactive light-up dance floor.

The two-story Splash Academies on Norwegian Escape, Breakaway and Getaway are the line's largest kids clubs at sea, home to high-tech games, a circus school and a small cinema.

Entourage is a space for teens 13 to 17, and it has air hockey, video games, plush couches and flat-screen TVs. Entourage also turns into a teens-only nightclub at night.

Late-night group babysitting is available for a fee. While all ships have parent-child play areas and care for babies 6 months to 3 years, only NCL Escape offers drop-off, extra-fee childcare for very small children in the Guppies Nursery .

Additional Norwegian Cruise Kid-Friendly Features

NCL shines when it comes to activities and features for kids (especially those who like to be active). Popular features include rock climbing and rappelling walls, batting cages, bowling lanes and impressive water park areas.

Norwegian Epic has a 303-foot-long corkscrew tube and the Drainpipe, a 104-foot tube that empties into a giant funnel. Breakaway and Getaway feature five multistory waterslides, as well as The Plank, an eight-foot walk (part of the ropes course) that extends off the edge of the ship and out over the sea.

Norwegian Escape offers one of the largest ropes courses at sea, as well as one of the largest water parks at sea . All four have two main pools, including a separate kids' pool.

On NCL Epic, "Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical" is a great inclusive musical option for kids of all ages. Epic, Breakaway and Getaway also have two-bedroom family villas , which are cruise ship rooms for six people.

On Norwegian Escape, The Haven includes two-bedroom family suites that sleep up to six passengers, and there are family mini-suites that feature bathtubs.

The NCL kids' menu includes lots of kid favorites, including waffles, chicken fingers, pizza, freshly prepared pasta, soft-serve ice cream and more. Kids 12 years old and under dining with their parents at specialty restaurants eat for free (but only from the complimentary kids’ menu).

5. Kid-Friendly Cruises on Princess Cruises

Best Princess Cruise Ships for Kids

Caribbean Princess , Regal Princess ,  Royal Princess ,  Ruby Princess , Island Princess , Sky Princess , Enchanted Princess  and  Emerald Princess

Why Princess Cruise Ships Are Great for Kids

Although Princess Cruises might not be the most well-known for its family-friendly offerings, its ships include expansive programs, facilities and accommodations making them great cruises for kids and adults.

From the splash park aboard Caribbean Princess to expanded kids' clubs, batting cages, and laser shooting ranges aboard Royal Princess and Regal Princess , there's a lot to love.

You'll also find big pool decks with water and light shows and poolside cabanas that are a great way to bond by the pool.

As part of Princess' work with Discovery , kid- and teen-friendly spaces on several of its ships feature lively, modern decor. Discovery-inspired programming, which includes fun and educational activities, has rolled out fleetwide.

Princess Cruises Kids’ Club

Dubbed Camp Discovery , Princess Cruises kids' clubs include The Treehouse for children aged 3 to 7, The Lodge for ages 8 to 12 and The Beach House for ages 13 to 17.

Activities might range from Caribbean-shark-themed scavenger hunts to hands-on "Mythbusters"-style challenges and learning the science of magic. Other kid-approved activities include video game tournaments, art projects and storytime.

The kids' clubs are outfitted with foosball, air hockey and even Skee-Ball. Teen cruisers can choose from sports tournaments, themed parties, dance classes and late-night movies.

Other Kid-Friendly Features on Princess Cruises

On Grand-class ships ( Ruby Princess , Crown Princess and Emerald Princess ), there are two large pools that are suitable for families (Calypso Reef and Pool, and Neptune Reef and Pool), plus a splash pool.

Royal and Regal Princess have outdoor play areas with a jungle gym for kids ages 3 to 7, and another for teens with a teens-only hot tub and space for outdoor parties.

The best option might just be the Caribbean Princess, though, with its top-deck Reef Family Splash Zone.

Movies Under the Stars is the line's huge outdoor movie theater that plays poolside features on the top deck after sunset. The 300-square-foot screen broadcasts kid- and teen-friendly movies, as well as fun-for-the-whole-gang blockbusters, and live sporting events and awards shows.

Another cool offering: Family members are welcome to attend the Jr. Chef@Sea Program , a hands-on chef-led cooking class that takes place in a shipboard kitchen, alongside their budding-chef peers.

The line's Discovery connection extends beyond the kids’ club to whole-family programming. Shark Week at Sea offers shark-themed games and activities for the whole family on select summer cruises.

For a kid-friendly Alaska cruise , families on select Alaska sailings can embark on a search for Bigfoot (like the TV show "Finding Bigfoot") or participate in a crab-sorting challenge (inspired by "Deadliest Catch").

Select Princess shore excursions are Discovery Family Tours, which are targeted at families with kids ages 3 to 12 and involve hands-on activities that connect kids to the destination. Animal Planet tours are ideal for parents and kids who want to see whales , sharks, sloths and other critters up close.

6. Kid-Friendly Cruises on MSC Cruises

Best MSC Ships for Kids

MSC Seaside , MSC Meraviglia , MSC Armonia , MSC Preziosa and MSC Grandiosa , MSC Virtuosa and MSC Bellissima

Why MSC Cruise Ships Are Great for Kids

MSC Cruises has become one of the best family cruise lines. You'll find exclusive clubs (and childcare) for children from infancy to age 12, plus teen spaces for those up to 17 years old aboard all MSC ships .

MSC Seaside in particular generally scores rave reviews from cruisers, with an interactive lab, Lego-themed kids’ spaces, VR and selfie tech in the teen's club, and plenty of family-friendly outdoor spaces. But almost every MSC ship offers plenty to do for kids of all ages.

From time to time, MSC will offer family cruise packages, including fly&cruise deals, which may be interesting for groups.

MSC Kids' Club

No matter which MSC cruise ship you choose -- from MSC Armonia to MSC Seaside -- kids will have a full slate of things to keep them busy thanks to modern, fun spaces for all age groups.

A separate baby care area is for the youngest up to toddlers, while Miniclub offers plenty of Lego action and safe-for-kids climbing options (ages 3 to 6). The Juniors Club, for ages 7 to 11, also features plenty of Lego-themed activities plus game shows, video game competitions, and arts and crafts.

Ages 12 through 17 can head to the Young Club or the Teen Club, which MSC has stocked with things like foosball, sports tournaments, a Formula 1 simulator, bowling , selfie-sharing and music-streaming stations and more.

Other Kid-Friendly Perks on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises shines when it comes to the kids' clubs across its fleet, but there are plenty of other extras that make the line a great choice for families with kids. Outdoors, you'll find pools , splash zones and waterslides on ships like MSC Virtuosa , Meraviglia , Grandiosa , and Preziosa .

If you're after fun on dry land (or at least when you're in port), MSC runs a Family Explorer program , which melds education with fun shore excursions that are designed to be interactive for the whole family.

Back onboard, MSC Cruises has family rooms designed to accommodate families of three or more. These Family Cabins and Super Family Cabins can be economical, too, as they are charged per room and not per guest.

Super Family Cabins consist of two triple cabins, while Executive Family Suites feature two queens along with extra storage space.

You'll find children's menus in the main dining rooms on all MSC ships and kid-friendly options at the buffets as well. The line offers the My Smart Card , which is a prepaid card that allows kids to purchase snacks, drinks and even arcade games on their own.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Cruise Ship Leaves Spain at Last After Bolivians' Visa Row

Cruise Ship Leaves Spain at Last After Bolivians' Visa Row

Relatives of Bolivian passengers who were barred from disembarking MSC Armonia cruise ship amid lack of visas, wait at the entrance to Barcelona's Port, Spain April 4, 2024. REUTERS/Albert Gea

By Joan Faus, Corina Pons and Albert Gea

BARCELONA (Reuters) - Dozens of Bolivian nationals who were detained on a cruise ship in Barcelona with false travel documents and invalid visas left the ship on Thursday, allowing it to continue on its journey after a long delay that angered other passengers.

The 69 Bolivians, including families with children, were taken to the port transit area, the government's regional delegation in Catalonia said.

The cruise ship, MSC-Armonia, which began its journey in Brazil, arrived in Barcelona early on Tuesday and was scheduled to leave for Corsica off the French coast later that day.

It was detained after authorities discovered the Bolivian nationals' visas were invalid. According to a Spanish Interior Ministry source, they were also carrying false documents.

The Bolivians, denied access to Spanish territory, will be taken to another boat while authorities process their cases to decide on potential deportations or granting of asylum, the delegation said.

Photos You Should See

Speaking by the port terminal, a Bolivian man named Juan, who declined to give his last name, said his son was among those detained.

His son, Juan said, was coming to Spain on holiday and had trusted a travel company who told him his documentation was legal when it actually wasn't.

"We don't know if they will be deported. Right now, we are in a wait-and-see moment in which we don't know if there will be a solution," Juan said.

El Pais newspaper said the Bolivians had intended to settle in Spain.

The case could signal a lesser-known irregular migration route from Latin America to Europe. The cost of a similar cruise ship journey starts at around 1,000 euros ($1,086), according to a specialised website.

Swiss-Italian operator MSC Cruises, which was responsible for checking the travel documents, said in a statement it would collaborate in the investigation.

The Bolivians would need to "follow the immigration process provided for by law", it said.

Passengers told Reuters that planned stops in France, Greece and Croatia had been cancelled due to the delay.

"People on board are enraged, feeling that it's surreal," said Paul Ibarguengoitia, 26, who is travelling with his family on the MSC-Armonia, adding that some disgruntled passengers had left the vessel over the change of itinerary.

(Reporting by Joan Faus, Corina Pons and Albert Gea; Editing by Andrei Khalip and Nick Macfie)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Tags: Bolivia , Europe , Brazil , Spain

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How these cruise passengers missed boarding, got stranded in Africa

Both Americans and Australians were left at port after an excursion ran long.

After what seemed like a dream trip, several American travelers were left stranded at port in West Africa mid-cruise while traveling from Cape Town, South Africa, to Barcelona, Spain.

Jay and Jill Campbell told ABC News Myrtle Beach affiliate WPDE that they were in the first week of a three week voyage aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines when they stopped just off the coast of West Africa.

The couple and others opted to tour the nearby island of São Tomé and Príncipe on the afternoon of March 27, and when the excursion ran late, they said they brought it to the guides' attention.

"We were like, 'our time is getting short,'" Jay Campbell recalled, at which point he said the guide let them know, "'No problem we can get you back in an hour.'"

Upon their return, the passengers said cruise officials refused to let them aboard the ship, even as the local Coast Guard had ferried the group to the anchored vessel.

"The harbormaster tried to call the ship. The captain refused the call. We sent emails to NCL the customer service emergency number," Jay Campbell said. "They said the only way for us to get in touch with the ship is via email. They're not responding to our emails."

The Campbells say they were left stranded along with four other Americans and two Australians -- of whom one is a paraplegic, one has a heart condition and one is pregnant. Some did not have credit cards or medication that was left on board.

Cruise expert Stewart Chiron, known as The Cruise Guy, told ABC News that "the bottom line was, they were hours late, the ship was ready to go."

MORE: Norwegian Cruise Line passengers claim Antarctica voyage was rerouted mid-trip

"More than likely that the anchor was already up, and the ship was already possibly moving," he said.

He continued, "Any operation at that point to get these passengers back on the ship would have caused tremendous delays, and safety would have been a major concern."

In a statement to ABC News, a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Lines said, "On the afternoon of March 27, 2024, while the ship was in São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation, eight guests who were on the island on a private tour not organized through us missed the last tender back to the vessel, therefore not meeting the all aboard time of 3 p.m. local time."

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They continued, "While this is a very unfortunate situation, guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship's intercom, in the daily communication and posted just before exiting the vessel."

The spokesperson added that the passports for the passengers who did not return at the all aboard time "were delivered to the local port agents to retrieve when they returned to the port, as per the regular protocol."

"Our team has been working closely with the local authorities to understand the requirements and necessary visas needed for the guests to rejoin the ship at the next available port of call," they said.

The Campbells said that their eight person group spent 15 hours traveling through six countries in an attempt to rejoin the Norwegian Dawn ship in Banjul, Gambia, on April 1. However, the ship couldn't dock due to low tide, so they are now trying to get to Senegal where the ship is meant to dock on Tuesday.

The Norwegian spokesperson said, "Unfortunately the ship was unable to safely dock in the destination due to adverse weather conditions, as well as tidal restrictions that require specific timing for safe passage. While we share in our guests' disappointment, this modification was made with great consideration for their safety and that of our crew, which is our top priority."

The cruise line contacted the guests "regarding this itinerary adjustment and provided them with authorization to rejoin the ship at Dakar, Senegal on April 2, 2024."

In light of the "series of unfortunate events outside of our control," the spokesperson said Norwegian Cruise Lines "will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal" and are still in communication with the guests to provide additional information as it becomes available.

MORE: Meet the cruise couple who have spent over 450 days at sea so far

In a separate, unrelated situation that took place coincidentally on the same day of the voyage, the spokesperson said, "An 80-year-old woman was medically disembarked after being evaluated by our onboard medical team, who thought it best that she receive further assessment and treatment as needed from a local hospital."

"In instances such as these, as the guest was released from the hospital and in a coherent state, our protocol is to contact the guest directly, as we would not have the authority to share any medical details with anyone else without their expressed consent," the spokesperson added, saying they worked with the port agent to receive updates.

"The guest has since been escorted on a flight to Lisbon, Portugal, and then put in the care of airport staff to continue her journey to the United States, where she has now made a safe return," they said.

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