Cruising offers endless experiences, and while many ships cater to families, some stand out for their adult-friendly amenities and atmospheres.
Some options offer premium features, exclusive spaces, and a more mature atmosphere for cruisers seeking relaxation without children around.
With solo and adults-only cruising up by 45% in recent years, many cruise lines have tailored their ships to ensure adults enjoy refined dining, private retreats, and enriching entertainment.
From Virgin Voyages’ adults-only policy to the secluded lounges and exclusive areas on larger lines, here are the best cruise lines for adults.
1. Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages is the only strictly 18+ cruise line, attracting adults seeking a unique and energetic atmosphere. The line has toned down a bit since launching in 2021.
Launched by Richard Branson, Virgin’s cruise fleet—including Scarlet, Valiant, and Resilient Lady—has drawn over 100,000 adult cruisers since its launch, catering to those seeking a non-structured cruise experience.
Onboard Entertainment includes late-night pool parties, drag brunches, and even an onboard tattoo parlor—activities crafted with adults in mind.
For those interested in wellness, the Redemption Spa offers a range of unique options, like mud treatments, a salt room, hot and cold plunge pools, group fitness classes, and the Tonic Juice Bar.
Itineraries: Virgin Voyages offers short Caribbean voyages and European itineraries, including overnight stops in Ibiza, Spain. The ship also calls to Bimini Island in The Bahamas with access to The Beach Club at Bimini,
2. Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises is known for its sophisticated yet relaxed vibe, making it a popular choice for adult travelers seeking a premium experience.
While not strictly adults-only, Celebrity’s typical demographic skews older, providing a quieter, more refined environment than family-focused lines.
Adults-Only Solarium and Premium Lounges: The adults-only solarium is a highlight, featuring comfortable loungers, jacuzzis, and heated pools where guests can unwind.
Celebrity cruise ships are recognized for their specialty dining, with venues like the modern Tuscan Grill and the distinctive Le Petit Chef combining world-class cuisine with immersive experiences.
After dinner, adults hang out at the Martini Bar, known for craft cocktails and interactive bartending, with nightly shows around the bar.
Itineraries: Celebrity Cruises sail to popular destinations like the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and the Galápagos Islands. They offer itineraries from 3 to 14 nights, with longer transpacific and transatlantic options.
3. Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking Ocean Cruises is a favorite for adults interested in immersive cultural experiences and an elegant, low-key atmosphere. And with reason, you must be at least 18 years old on the day of the cruise to sail.
Known for its Scandinavian design, Viking’s fleet offers spacious, stylish public areas and staterooms that offer relaxation without the hustle and bustle of children running around the ship.
Read More: Viking Ocean and Expedition Ships: 11 Similarities and Differences
Viking also includes complimentary specialty dining, with wine, beer, and soft drinks available during meals, giving guests a premium experience without the added costs.
Exclusive Amenities: Viking’s all-inclusive fare extends to luxurious amenities like the LivNordic Spa, where guests can enjoy Scandinavian-inspired treatments.
Additionally, no casinos or flashy nightclubs ensure a peaceful onboard ambiance that feels almost like a private retreat for mature travelers.
Itineraries: Viking offers itineraries focusing on cultural regions, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Asia. Longer journeys cover destinations like Antarctica, Australia and world cruises.
4. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offers a “ship within a ship” experience in the MSC Yacht Club, featuring exclusive amenities and quiet spaces for those seeking an upscale atmosphere.
While the Yacht Club is open to families, it provides private areas that appeal to adults looking for a more premium experience within the larger ship environment.
Yacht Club and Butler Service: The Yacht Club includes private access to a dedicated sundeck, a pool, and a lounge, all serviced by attentive butlers and a concierge team.
It is designed to cater to all guests, but its private spaces and premium services create an exclusive retreat for adults.
MSC Cruises is quickly growing to be one of the world’s largest cruise lines, with its fleet of cutting-edge ships.
Itineraries: MSC Cruises offers Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Northern European itineraries, as well as Middle East and South American sailings. The Yacht Club experience is available on most flagship routes.
5. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is well-known for its adventurous activities, yet it also offers plenty of spaces tailored to adults seeking relaxation.
The line’s adults-only Solarium provides an oasis with a pool, hot tubs, and padded loungers. It is restricted to guests aged 16 and up, making it a popular spot for adults wanting a break from the kids.
Entertainment and Specialty Venues: Royal Caribbean’s larger ships, especially the Quantum and Oasis classes, feature unique adult-friendly venues like Central Park, an open-air space surrounded by lush greenery.
These areas and the Solarium provide quieter atmospheres perfect for unwinding. Evenings are filled with entertainment options, from the lively Quest Game Show to live jazz and classical music in Central Park.
Premium Dining: Specialty dining options, such as Chops Grille and Izumi, offer gourmet meals in upscale settings, ideal for couples and groups of friends.
Itineraries: Royal Caribbean’s routes include the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska, as well as shorter Bahamian sailings. Quantum and Oasis-class ships feature longer itineraries to Asia and the South Pacific.
6. Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line caters to families and adult travelers, with its exclusive Haven providing a premium space for relaxation.
Though families can stay in Haven suites, the private sundeck is limited to guests 16 and older, giving adults a serene space to unwind.
The Haven features private lounges, an exclusive pool area, and 24-hour room service for an upscale experience. With butler service and priority boarding, Haven guests receive personalized attention that appeals to travelers seeking less crowds and privacy.
Dining and Entertainment: Dining options within the Haven, such as Le Bistro, allow for intimate dinners, while Haven-exclusive bars provide a quiet ambiance for socializing. For adults looking to relax while still enjoying activities, the Haven’s private spaces make for a convenient escape from the bustling areas of the ship.
Norwegian Cruise Line placed an order for eight additional ships in 2024.
Itineraries: Norwegian Cruise Line offers routes through the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, and Hawaii, plus transatlantic voyages. The Haven experience is available on select Caribbean and European itineraries.
7. Holland America Line
Holland America Line attracts mature cruisers looking for a refined experience with a relaxed atmosphere and elevated dining led by its Culinary Council.
Holland America’s commitment to premium service and traditional cruising makes it ideal for those who appreciate a quieter, more classic experience.
Enrichment and Live Music for Adults: Holland America offers a diverse music program that appeals to adult audiences, from classical to jazz. With venues like the Rolling Stone Rock Room and Billboard Onboard, the line provides an enjoyable and varied entertainment lineup that suits all musical tastes.
Destinations and Relaxing Spaces: Shore excursions with Holland America are crafted to give you the most the port offers. On board, adults can enjoy the Greenhouse Spa and Salon or the Explorations Café in the Crow’s Nest, providing a perfect balance of enrichment and relaxation.
Itineraries: Holland America sails through Alaska, the Caribbean, and Northern Europe, as well as the Panama Canal and South America. Extended journeys include Asia, Australia, and Grand Voyages.
8. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises delivers a classic cruising experience with an adult-friendly atmosphere that appeals to couples and mature travelers. Known for longer itineraries and upscale dining, Princess Cruises offers refined options in destinations across the globe, from Antarctica to the Mediterranean.
The Sanctuary: Princess’s Sanctuary provides an adults-only retreat, with Serenity Stewards available to meet guests’ relaxation needs. This secluded area offers al fresco massages, light snacks, and comfortable seating, allowing adults to unwind in peace.
Romantic Dining: Princess offers specialty dining at venues like Sabatini’s and Crown Grill, providing memorable and romantic meals. Its newest ship, Sun Princess (and upcoming Star Princess), features Love by Britto, located at the back of the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Itineraries: Princess Cruises covers destinations like the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska, with some Antarctic sailings. They also offer world cruises and extended voyages through Asia and Australia.
9. Saga Cruises
Saga Cruises is one of the few cruise lines that exclusively caters to guests aged 50 and over, creating an all-adult atmosphere perfect for travelers looking for serenity and sophistication.
All-Inclusive Premium Amenities: Saga Cruises offers an all-inclusive experience with premium amenities such as shore excursions, specialty dining, and 24-hour room service included in the fare. Butler service is available in select suites, and the ships offer smaller, intimate settings that feel more personal.
Itineraries: Saga Cruises specializes in European river routes and Mediterranean voyages. Some itineraries visit Northern Europe and the Canary Islands. They also offer extended cruises to North America and Africa.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a cruise line that caters to adult travelers, each option offers unique experiences, from all-inclusive retreats to premium spaces within larger ships.
While Carnival and Disney have adult-only areas, we’ve chosen not to include them in this list. They tend to carry more children than other lines, making them more family-focused overall.
Read More: Disney vs Carnival — Which one is better?
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