Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages
Sometimes you want to embark on a cruise with the whole family in tow. And sometimes, you don’t. Enter adults-only cruises.
“Having no kids onboard really changes the vibe!” Fora Advisor Amy LaGrow-Rogers said. “No kids running around, screaming and having meltdowns. All of the adults are able to relax because they are truly on vacation! They don't have to be tied to a nap schedule or deal with overtired, cranky kiddos.”
Below, we break down some of our favorite options for an adults-only cruise, complete with expert takes from Fora travel advisors.
“Finally,” Amy added, “a vacation parents don't need a vacation from!”
Read on to get the lay of the land. Then, book your cruise with a Fora Advisor to lock in your itinerary and accommodations, and to unlock complimentary VIP perks aboard our travel partners’ ships.
Aside from the obvious, what’s different about an adults-only cruise?
Generally — not always! — adults-only cruises have a more sophisticated atmosphere than family-oriented options. All the entertainment and activities (live music, shows, comedy acts, tastings…) are designed exclusively for adult interests. Dining experiences may be more refined. And even entry-level cabins and amenities are often more luxurious. There are also themed cruises, such as those focused on wellness.
Why choose an adults-only cruise?
Family cruises can be amazing — but so is taking a break from kid duties.
“I have kids, and I love being around kids, but I also love the option of a vacation without them,” Fora Advisor Jennifer Lopez shared.
Adults-only cruises aren’t for everyone (that’s okay, too). But if a child-free, adult-oriented vacation sounds ideal (or necessary), keep reading.
True adults-only cruises: no kids on board
First, we’re highlighting bona-fide adults-only cruises, options that do not allow anyone under the age of 18 aboard.
Virgin Voyages
Image Courtesy of Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages adults-only cruises have only been around for a few years, but the Richard Branson-owned brand is revolutionizing the industry. This cruise line brings the same electric vibe its hotels are known for to the cruising experience, with itineraries set in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and beyond.
“Virgin Voyages is a fantastic, kid-free cruise option with adult-centric activities,” Jennifer shared. She cited the the Grog Walk — an onboard pub crawl — Lotería (a fun Mexican board game) and “young-at-heart activities” such as Mario Kart tournaments and 90's Boy Band dance classes as a few highlights.
The brand takes a different approach to how cruises normally operate. For starters, everything is included: all dining outlets, group fitness classes, WiFi, entertainment — even taxes and fees. Fora Advisor Marisa Flukinger noted that you only pay for any upgrades you might want, like alcohol (essential drinks are already included) or shore excursions.
“I also really appreciate how guests don't feel nickel-and-dimed on a Virgin cruise,” Jennifer added.
As Marisa pointed out, Virgin Voyages doesn’t offer an alcohol package like many other adults-only cruises. She explained that guests can pay for their bar tab ahead of their cruise, and any guests who do so will receive an extra drink credit from Virgin (i.e., if you pay $300, Virgin covers an extra $50).
Marisa also had a few pro tips. First, sign up for the Grog Walk on day one: “It’s a great way to get to know the ship.” She also recommends packing PJs for the Pajama Party, and red clothing for Scarlet Night.
“When booking with Virgin, a First Mate — travel advisor — is a must,” Marissa added. Advisors can unlock additional onboard credit (a.k.a. Sailor Loot) and get you priority boarding for Sea Terrace cabins.
Our guide to the benefits of using a Virgin Voyages travel agent (a.k.a. Fora Advisor) has more intel. You can also reach out to a Fora Advisor directly to start planning your Virgin Voyages cruise.
Viking Cruises
Image courtesy of Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises appeal to discerning travelers looking for a laid-back and refined voyage. Most of their offerings tour scenic rivers — the Danube, the Mekong, the Nile — and feature smaller, more intimate ships. This allows for a deeply personalized experience, even as you disembark to explore river destinations like Budapest, Hanoi or Porto.
“What sets Viking apart is its unwavering commitment to equality of service, irrespective of cabin category,” Fora Advisor Lauren Harvey said. “Whether booking the most modest accommodation or the most lavish suite, guests receive dedicated attention and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.”
Even “modest accommodations” on Viking ships are spacious and thoughtfully designed. Expect a full array of refined amenities (an onboard library, laundry service, lounges…), and many rooms have options for private verandas.
“As a travel advisor and frequent passenger, I've had the privilege of experiencing Viking Cruises firsthand,” Lauren said. “One of the advantages of working with a travel advisor is the ability to offer clients insight gained through personal experiences. I can unequivocally assure my clients that Viking Cruises exemplifies impeccable service standards.”
For a sample itinerary, check out Fora Advisor Juli Hall’s inside look at a Viking cruise through Portugal.
Adult-centric cruises: ships where kids are technically allowed, but it’s not the norm
The next group of cruise lines focus mostly or entirely on the adult experience, but technically allow children. On most voyages, expect few if any children aboard.
Crystal Cruises
Bought by travel company Abercrombie & Kent in 2022, Crystal Cruises is renowned for its luxe and sophisticated cruising experience. Their ships feature world-class dining, classy entertainment and elevated accommodations matching the brand’s pedigree. The cruise line boasts intricate itineraries that cover exotic destinations and cultural landmarks around the globe. Enjoy a variety of amenities such as wellness centers, spas and fitness programs. Plus, with a high staff-to-guest ratio, Crystal Cruises provides an unparalleled level of attention to detail.
Windstar Cruises
Image courtesy of Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises’ fleet of ships — several of which feature sails for leisurely days at sea — balance a private yacht experience with the variety and amenities associated with traditional cruise liners (like a slate of water sports from the onboard “marina”). These ships can access smaller ports and harbors around the globe, helping guests get exclusive access to off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Windstar Cruises is known for its casual yet upscale vibe, with no formal dress code and a focus on personalized service and relaxed luxury. The dining boasts destination-inspired cuisine and open-seating dining for a more flexible and sociable atmosphere.
Related trip report: Fora Advisor Angela Marini’s Windstar Cruise Trip Report
Explora Journeys
Another new name in the luxury cruise industry, Explora Journeys offer a boutique vibe and immersive travel experiences. Their medium-sized ships are designed to feel more like luxurious, intimate resorts at sea, with elegantly appointed suites and an emphasis on comfort. Children and teens are allowed, but aside from its Young Explorers club, Explora Journeys almost exclusively focuses on adults.
“Upon stepping foot on Explora I, I was blown away,” Fora Advisor Alex Sallis recollects in her 6-day experience aboard an Explora Journeys ship. “The ship feels like a luxury five-star resort. The crew treats you like you're the most important guest onboard. And the dining options are like what you'd find in New York.”
Culinary excellence is a hallmark of Explora Journeys, which feature a variety of fine dining options that showcase ingredients from the destinations their ships visit. The brand focuses intently on curated experiences both onboard and ashore; personalized, transformative journeys go beyond traditional sightseeing. Additionally, wellness is a core theme: state-of-the-art spa facilities reflect a holistic and environmentally conscious travel ethos.
Silversea Cruises
Offering world-class luxury, small and elegantly designed ships and a high staff-to-guest ratio, Silversea Cruises goes the extra (nautical) mile. The cruise line’s suites, many with private verandas, are complemented by high-end dining options featuring diverse cuisine.
Silversea Cruises offers carefully curated itineraries that reach both popular and remote destinations around the globe. Onboard amenities include world-class spas, enrichment programs (like gourmet meals prepared using ingredients and fine wines from destinations) and a variety of entertainment options designed for luxury travel enthusiasts. And while children are allowed aboard Silversea ships, the onboard options and amenities cater more to an adult crowd.
Seabourn
Image courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn is another option among luxurious adult-oriented cruises. While guests of all ages are allowed, the brand caters to an adult clientele.
In Fora Advisor Tracy Burpee’s recount of her 10-day cruise from the Tyrrhenian Sea to Malta on the Seabourn Sojourn, she notes how the typical age range for Seabourn guests is 40–80.
“We are in our mid-to-late 50s,” she added, “and felt very comfortable, enjoying the more active aspects of the offerings.”
Passengers are pampered with complimentary Champagne and caviar. All-suite accommodations, many with private verandas, provide a level of comfort and elegance that sets Seabourn apart. Gourmet dining is curated in partnership with renowned chef Thomas Keller. And exclusive shore excursions like the brand’s signature Caviar in the Surf beach parties add a classy spin to tropical getaways.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas (a.k.a. RSSC) blends the all-inclusive, colossal scale of family-friendly cruise brands with the bespoke luxury offered by small luxury fleets. The brand really lives up to the meaning of all-inclusive, too, with options that include airfare. Kids are allowed — and the brand does offer a few family-friendly amenities — but the adult experience is still the focal point, and most voyages see few (if any) children aboard.
The brand’s lineup of shore excursions is arguably one of its’ biggest allures. Fora Advisor Julie Sambuco shared a few examples — like horseback riding in New Zealand and spying on Komodo dragons in Indonesia — in her retelling of her cruise from Auckland to Bali aboard a Regent Seven Seas ship.
Related article: 3 Reasons You Should Embark on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer (foratravel.com)
Family cruises with adults-only sections & amenities
If you ultimately decide that an adult-only cruise isn’t the right choice, many popular family-friendly cruise lines — like Carnival and Royal Caribbean — still offer adult-only sections and amenities.
For example, Carnival has its Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, an exclusive deck aboard all ships in its fleet.
“It's truly a peaceful oasis,” Fora Advisor Jane Henzerling said of the adults-only deck. “The comfy loungers, dedicated bar and adults-only pool and jacuzzi are a perfect refuge from the ‘fun ship’ atmosphere.”
Royal Caribbean also makes a concerted effort to appeal to adults.
“I don't have kids and Royal Caribbean is one of my favorite cruise lines,” Fora Advisor Amy LaGrow-Rogers said. “Their adults-only Solariums provide such a zen, relaxing environment — you can go in there and forget there are even kids onboard! Parents can drop the kids off at the Adventure Ocean kids’ club and enjoy all of the adult nightly entertainment.”
Book your adults-only cruise with a Fora Advisor
Get the most out of your adults-only cruise — or any vacation — when you book your trip with a Fora Advisor. They’ll handle the hassles of booking and make sure all the details are taken care of. On cruises, that means ensuring the right accommodations are chosen, reservations are made, excursions are booked…you name it. Book a cruise operated by one of our travel partners and you can enjoy complimentary perks, like onboard credits and priority boarding, too.
Adults-only cruise FAQs
Find answers to some common questions about adults-only cruises below.
What should I expect on an adults-only cruise? Which cruise is the best for adults?
It depends on the cruise line you choose. An experience on Virgin Voyages, where the vibe is playful and cheeky, is going to be different from a river cruise on Viking, for instance.
As for which cruise is best, when you book your cruise with a Fora Advisor, they’ll make sure you find a cruise that matches your interests and budget, and give you an idea of what to expect.
Can you walk around in a bathing suit on a cruise?
Most adults-only cruise lines only allow bathing suits in designated areas — pool areas, sun decks, etc. — but the exact rules vary by brand and ship. A Fora Advisor can provide specifics for any cruise lines you’re interested in.
Are there Disney cruises for adults only?
While Disney cruise liners have adults-only amenities and sections, they do not currently offer any adults-only itineraries.
More travel inspiration
Check out the guides below for more travel inspiration:
