The Best Cruise Lines For Adult-Only Cruises

• Escape the Noise: Swap the sound of splashing pools for serene sanctuaries and sophisticated dining on a cruise designed exclusively for adults.

• Top Picks: Whether you want the hip, party atmosphere of Virgin Voyages or the traditional British elegance of P&O Cruises, we compare the best options.

• More Choice: Discover other luxury lines like Oceania and Silversea that cater to grown-ups, plus an exclusive offer you won't find anywhere else.

Many people choose to go on a cruise to unwind, enjoy some serenity in beautiful surroundings and simply get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

And, for those seeking an uninterrupted period of pure relaxation, it is not likely to involve children’s shrieks as they splash or dive straight into the pool or family-friendly menus that cater to less adventurous taste buds.

The trend for adult-only cruises is relatively new but has been gaining popularity due to the success of adult-only areas on standard cruise ships, such as Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean’s Solariums, Carnival’s Serenity retreat deck, and The Sanctuary on Princess Cruises ships. These cruise lines usually focus on creating luxury, indulgent experiences, culture-rich itineraries and creative, exquisite gastronomic experiences in fine dining venues. 

Although, recently, there’s been a new, more light-hearted take on adult cruises too. Check out our review of the best adult-only cruise lines, where there are exclusively no kids allowed onboard! 

Virgin Voyages

Best for fun-filled, laid-back cruising

Eccentric Virgin owner Richard Branson created, and successfully launched in 2021, Virgin Voyages with a distinct goal in mind – to disrupt the industry by attracting people who would never consider going on a cruise. 

So, if traditional cruises don’t spark your imagination and you’re looking for something perhaps a bit cooler, where you can chill out, eat fantastic food, drink thirst-wrenching beverages, and generally have a good time, Virgin Voyages is for you.

Billed as adult-by-design but welcoming your ‘inner child’, their signature ships Scarlet Lady, Resilient Lady, Valiant Lady and Brilliant Lady are renowned for their cool onboard amenities and exquisite dining options. Sailing from the sunny climbs of Miami, Florida, as well as a variety of Mediterranean and UK-based ports, expect an emphasis on wellness with an opulent spa, including a salt room, hydrotherapy pool, and quartz beds.

There are also plenty of options to keep fit, such as a yoga area, boxing ring and running track. And, when it’s time to have fun, you can enjoy late-night cabarets and dance parties in the nightclub, creative cocktail bars, late-night comedy shows and the world’s largest daybed.

Cabins are modern and contemporary, offering state-of-the-art features including tech to control your curtains, climate control and TV at your fingertips. There are four different kinds of cabin grades available too, from roomy inside cabins to huge suites with marble bathrooms. 

Ships across the Virgin Voyages fleet are kind to the planet as well as your inner child too, as vessels are fitted with LED lighting, and technology to purify wastewater plus there’s a ban on single-use plastics across Virgin’s fleet too. 

Included in the fare: All meals, basic non-alcoholic drinks (including soft drinks and water), Wi-Fi, fitness classes, gratuities, and entertainment 

P&O Cruises 

Best for no-fly, sophisticated cruising 

Beloved British cruise line P&O Cruises offers a stylish adults-only cruise experience that’s perfect for those seeking an elegant, child-free getaway. Catering specifically to over 18s on Arcadia and Aurora only, P&O Cruises delivers a modern British ambience combined with a range of thoughtfully designed onboard amenities to enhance relaxation and enjoyment.

With destinations spanning Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and beyond, P&O Cruises offers a blend of cultural exploration and sun-soaked beaches. Onboard, you can indulge in fine dining experiences crafted by Food Heroes, such as acclaimed chef Marco Pierre White, and exceptionally talented onboard chefs, or unwind at The Retreat, an exclusive outdoor spa with luxurious cabanas and personal wait service.

Entertainment options on P&O Cruises’ adults-only cruises are diverse, from elegant cocktail bars and a stylish casino to the ship’s cinema and high-energy live performances. 

Additionally, P&O Cruises hosts a number of events featuring interesting guest speakers and expert-led workshops on topics like wine tasting, photography, and wellness. The line’s range of shore excursions also offers something for every interest, whether you’re drawn to local culinary delights or scenic guided tours.

Included in the fare: Gratuities, dining at included restaurants, accommodation, entertainment, complimentary room service breakfast (delivery fees may apply), water, fruit juice, tea and coffee, five-course Celebration Night dinner, quizzes, sauna and steam rooms 

Other options

Many other cruise lines offer adult-focused holidays, without specifically excluding under-18s, such as Silversea, Oceania Cruises, Cunard and River Cruises. To determine if a cruise has an emphasis on adults, look for ones that offer more cultural experiences, fine dining or luxury spa facilities and fewer family fun-type features. 

However, some cruise lines do operate a mixture of adults-only and family-friendly ships in their fleet, such as Marella Cruises’ Marella Explorer 2 which is exclusively adults-only. Also, consider booking your trip outside of the school holiday seasons when there is a lower chance of children and families being on board.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which cruise lines are strictly adults-only?

The main lines that enforce a strict no-children policy across their entire fleet are Virgin Voyages, Saga Cruises (50+), and Viking (18+ for both Ocean and River cruises). P&O Cruises and Marella Cruises both have specific ships in their fleets (Aurora/Arcadia and Marella Explorer 2) that are exclusively for adults.

2. What is the minimum age to book an adult-only cruise?

Generally, the minimum age is 18. However, this can vary by line. For example, Saga Cruises requires the lead passenger to be at least 50 years old, though a travel companion can be 40+.

3. Are adult-only cruises just for couples?

Not at all! While they are popular for romantic getaways, they are also fantastic for groups of friends and solo travellers. Virgin Voyages, for instance, is known for its social party atmosphere, while lines like Fred. Olsen are very welcoming to solo guests with dedicated meet-ups.

4. Is the entertainment different on an adult-only ship?

Yes, it often caters to a more mature audience. You might find risqué cabaret shows, late-night comedy, and complex theatre productions (like on Virgin), or enriching lectures, classical recitals, and ballroom dancing (like on P&O or Cunard), rather than water parks and character parades.

5. Can I avoid children on a family-friendly ship?

Absolutely. If you love a particular ship that allows kids, you can still find peace. Look for ships with dedicated adult-only enclaves, such as "The Sanctuary" on Princess Cruises, the "Solarium" on Royal Caribbean, or "The Retreat" on P&O’s family ships.

6. Do adult-only cruises have a strict dress code?

It depends entirely on the cruise line. P&O Cruises’ Arcadia and Aurora maintain the tradition of formal nights (Black Tie). In contrast, Virgin Voyages has no dress code whatsoever—they encourage you to "come as you are," whether that is in sequins or shorts.

7. Are adult-only cruises more expensive?

They can be perceived as pricier because many adult-only lines (like Viking or Silversea) are in the luxury category. However, lines like P&O Cruises and Marella offer incredible value for money, comparable to standard family holidays.

8. Why is the food considered better on adult ships?

Without the need to cater to children's palates with nuggets and pizza buffets, chefs can focus on more adventurous, sophisticated menus. You will often find more speciality dining options, intricate tasting menus, and a focus on fine wines and mixology.