Many people choose to go on a cruise to unwind, enjoy some serenity in beautiful surroundings and simply get away from it all. And for those seeking an interrupted period of relaxation, it is not likely to involve children’s shrieks as they dive in 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. These cruise lines usually focus on creating luxury, indulgent experiences, culture-rich itineraries and creative, exquisite fine dining.
Although, recently, there’s been a new, more light-hearted take on adult cruises too. Check out our review of three of the best adult-only cruise lines, where more is explained.
Virgin Voyages
Best for fun-filled, laid-back cruising
Virgin owner Richard Branson created 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 and have a good time, Virgin Voyages is for you.
Billed as adult-by-design but welcoming your ‘inner-child’, their signature ship Scarlet lady, which only sailed for the first time in 2021, is already making waves of excitement. Sailing from Miami, Florida, expect an emphasis on wellness with an opulent spa, including 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 cocktails bars, late-night comedy shows and the world’s largest daybed.
Included in the fare: All meals, basic non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi, fitness classes and gratuities
Saga Cruises
Best for all-inclusive cruises for older adults and singles
Saga Cruises is well-known for its exclusive over 50s luxury cruises, having over 60 years of experience across a wide range of destinations. Offering the boutique, smaller ship experience with both river and ocean itineraries, Saga Cruises focuses on creating high-end, relaxing experiences with a quintessentially English twist – such as traditional English tea served every afternoon.
If you like to keep busy while at sea, Saga Cruise provides plenty of options, including arts and crafts, live music that includes a partnership with Jools Holland, dance classes and lectures. And with on-shore escorted tours also offered, the Saga experience is a good option for solo travellers.
Included in the fare: Transfers to/from the ship, all meals, most drinks including wine at lunch and dinner, house spirits, draft beers and many non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi, fitness classes, shuttles to/from port and gratuities
Other options
Many other cruise lines offer adult-focused holidays, without specifically excluding under 18s, such as Silversea, P&O Cruises 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. Also, consider booking your trip outside of the school holiday seasons when there is a lower chance of children and families being on board.
To explore the options in more detail, please contact our cruise specialists.
