15 Fun Adults-Only Cruises For 2023
Prepare to embark on your next cruise excursion without the company of your offspring by packing their suitcases.
Consider going on an adults-only or adult-oriented cruise if getting away from it all means taking a trip during which you won’t be responsible for the care or supervision of any children. Some cruise lines offer an experience that is exclusive to adults only (i.e., children are not permitted on board), while others provide venues and activities aboard the ship that are geared toward adults in order to keep you distinct from younger passengers.
The following cruise lines provide upscale amenities, immersive excursions, sophisticated dining options, lively nighttime entertainment, and time for relaxation among like-minded and similarly aged travelers. When you are ready to plan your adventure on the high seas, consider booking a trip on one of these cruise lines.
(It is important to note that the COVID-19 pandemic may have an impact on some of the following activities, programs, and amenities. There is a possibility that new regulations have been implemented, such as mandatory mask use, capacity limits, or reservation prerequisites. Before embarking on your trip, make sure to check in with the cruise line you’ve chosen, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the United States Department of State.
The Best Cruises for Adults Only
Viking
Adults-only ships operated by Viking include itineraries all over the world that are focused on specific destinations. Guests must be at least 18 years old to sail on one of these ships. The line’s nine ocean-going ships, each having space for 930 passengers, include opulent suites decorated in a Scandinavian design and comfy common areas where passengers may read a book or gaze out at the water. The Viking Exploration program gives guests who are interested in history, cuisine, or science exclusive access to behind-the-scenes events that have been carefully designed for them. Visit a traditional farm outside Bergen, Norway, to immerse yourself in the culture of the area, or spend the evening dining on Caribbean Creole food cooked by renowned chefs at a mansion in Cartagena, Colombia, to get a taste of the city’s rich culinary history.
In addition to these off-the-beaten-path excursions, guests have the opportunity to go to well-known locations such as the ancient city of Ephesus (Kuşadasi) in Turkey, as well as the Parthenon and Acropolis Hill in Athens, Greece. Onboard enrichment programs are also offered by Viking, and some examples include destination-themed performances, cooking lessons, and lectures given by historians. The price of the cruise includes accommodations in staterooms with private verandas, all meals (including those served in specialty dining venues), wine and beer with lunch and supper, one complimentary excursion at each port, free Wi-Fi, and access to onboard amenities such as the Nordic Spa.
In addition to its ocean vessels, Viking now offers river excursions on the new Viking Mississippi, a ship that was purpose-built specifically for navigating the Mississippi River. These river cruises can be taken in destinations all over the world, including the United States. In addition, the company operates two expedition ships of the Polar Class 6 designation called the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris. These ships travel the waterways from Canada and the Caribbean to remote locations in Antarctica.
The adults-only hideaway onboard a Virgin Voyage ship is available to passengers aged 18 and up. At the moment, the fleet consists of two ships of the same name: the Scarlet Lady, which was the pioneer of the fleet, and the Valiant Lady, which set sail for the first time in March of 2022. The adults-only cruise line has two ships, each of which has 1,330 cabins, the majority of which have balconies. Additionally, the ships each contain 78 RockStar Quarters suites, which provide passengers with access to Richard’s Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck area. The ships, which take their design cues from superyachts, feature over 20 different dining options, some of which are helmed by chefs who have earned Michelin stars, in addition to a wide range of wellness and exercise areas. At Redemption Spa, the mud room and salt therapy chamber are great places to unwind or rejuvenate after a long day. Using the “Shake for Champagne” feature of the Virgin Voyages Sailor app, you may even order a bottle of Champagne for yourself or your pals to be delivered to any location on the ship.
The itineraries include crossings of the Atlantic Ocean in addition to visits to various ports of call in Europe and the Caribbean. The cost of a cruise includes not just meals at each of the ship’s restaurants but also Wi-Fi, gratuities for the staff, basic beverages like water, tea, and coffee, and access to an infinite number of fitness sessions. During your time on board, you shouldn’t miss out on having a posh meal at The Wake and experiencing an immersive show at The Red Room, which was the first multiform theater at sea. The Resilient Lady and the Brilliant Lady are going to be the next ships to set sail in 2023 when they make their debut.
Saga Cruises
Saga Cruises, which is situated in the United Kingdom and caters primarily to passengers aged 50 and older, is well worth the trip over the pond (though travelers may bring a companion as young as 40). Each of Saga’s boutique luxury ocean cruise ships can accommodate up to 987 guests at its absolute maximum capacity. Both of the company’s ships, the Spirit of Discovery and the Spirit of Adventure, can set sail from either the Dover or Southampton cruise ports in the United Kingdom. Both of these ports serve as embarkation points for the company’s cruises.
All meals at any of the ship’s restaurants, as well as access to all entertainment venues, Wi-Fi, and an unlimited supply of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, are included in the cost of these British-themed cruises, which are all-inclusive. The prices include gratuities, as well as chauffeur service from various locations in the United Kingdom to the embarkation port, and excursions in some of the ports of call. On board, guests have the opportunity to participate in a variety of wellness-oriented activities, such as yoga sessions, spa treatments, and individualized fitness programs.
The company provides cruises to destinations like as Europe, the Caribbean, North America (including the United States and Canada), Greenland, and Iceland. Saga’s newest ship, Spirit of Adventure, offers passengers the opportunity to spend their nights delighting in Italian food at Amalfi, savoring Nepalese specialities at Khukuri House, or settling in for drinks and dinner at the Supper Club, which showcases jazz music and cabaret-style entertainment.
P&O Cruises
The Arcadia and the Aurora are the only two ships in the fleet of P&O Cruises based in the United Kingdom that are reserved solely for passengers aged 18 and older. The Arcadia, the more recent of the two ships, has space for 2,094 passengers and 866 crew members. The ship sets sail from Southampton in the United Kingdom, and its destinations include the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal; the British Isles; Norway and Iceland; as well as the United States of America, the Caribbean, and Canada.
Sindhu, one of Arcadia’s five restaurants, serves traditional Indian cuisine with a contemporary British touch. Ocean Grill, another of Arcadia’s five restaurants, is known for its steaks and seafood prepared by renowned British chef Marco Pierre White. Intermezzo is the ship’s cocktail and Champagne venue, and passengers can enjoy an aperitif at the yacht-inspired Spinnaker Bar before dinner. Guests can also sip Champagne at the ship’s Intermezzo venue. When you’ve had your fill of the thrilling stops along the way, make your way back to the ship to take advantage of the Arcadia’s sophisticated decor and impeccable service. You may indulge in some additional pampering by treating yourself to a stone therapy session at the Oasis spa, followed by a live performance in The Palladium, which features three levels of seating. After that, put an exclamation point on the evening by getting your groove on at The Globe.
The Aurora, which has a capacity of 1,874 guests and 850 staff members, is a ship with a slightly more intimate feel. At the very center of the ship is a spacious atrium gallery that spans all four decks. The Mediterranean, the Baltic region, Spain and Portugal, as well as the United States and Canada, are all included on the itineraries, in addition to a globe voyage. On board, there are a total of 11 bars and cafes, in addition to the seven restaurants available. You can select for a more flexible schedule at The Beach House or Medina, both of which are restaurants decorated in the club-style, or you can choose to dine at the same hour each evening at the restaurant Alexandria. In addition, cruisers have the opportunity to have a delectable meal at The Glass House, which is a restaurant that serves unpretentious snacks that are complemented with wines from all over the world. After dinner, you can watch larger shows at the upscale Curzon Theatre, which has seating for 652, or you can enjoy live entertainment and dancing at the show lounge Carmen’s.
Best Cruises Tailored Specifically for Older Passengers
Even while many boutique and luxury cruise lines that are all-inclusive or mainly all-inclusive welcome families, many of the onboard venues and activities are intended for adults only. On these ships, you won’t meet parents with small children very often because there are very few activities (or none at all) that are oriented toward younger cruisers, and there are also no childcare services.
The four luxurious boutique ships that make up Azamara‘s fleet all contain the line’s trademark Destination Immersion activities, which are oriented toward adults. These smaller ships, which have a maximum capacity of 702 passengers, navigate channels and rivers that are inaccessible to larger ships. As a result, they are able to dock in the heart of cities and other unique ports of call all over the world. Additionally, many Azamara voyages feature special events such as the 151st Open at Royal Liverpool during a British Isles cruise, in addition to longer stays and overnights in ports that are not found on many other itineraries (including wine and culture itineraries). Many other cruise lines do not offer these amenities. In addition, the line will be increasing the number of itineraries available for Country Intensive cruises beginning in the year 2023. Some of the countries that will be visited on these cruises are South Africa, Australia, the Canary Islands, Japan, and Israel. The Windows Café and Discoveries Restaurant, the ship’s main dining room, are just two of the many restaurants on board that offer a variety of dining experiences, from the more relaxed to the more elegant. At specialty restaurants like Prime C and Aqualina, you can get excellent steak and seafood, or if you’d rather, you may dine on Italian food. The Azamara, the newest and largest ship in the fleet, can accommodate up to 684 passengers. After that, adults can get a drink before dinner at the Atlas Bar, which serves creative artisan cocktails such as the London Fog Martini and Tuscan Delight. At the conclusion of the day, you can socialize with other people who are on the cruise with you at the Discoveries Bar, which is another guest favorite. Wine connoisseurs will delight in the opportunity to pair supper with one of the Wine Cellar’s limited-production or rare vintages, as well as participate in wine tastings hosted in the Mosaic Café.
Stateroom accommodations, select spirits, wine, and beer; gratuities; nonalcoholic beverages such as bottled water, specialty coffees, and tea; and complimentary “AzAmazing Evenings” ashore or “Destination Celebrations” aboard the ship are all included in the price of a cruise. Veranda Plus rooms and suite accommodations come with a variety of additional luxuries and conveniences, such as complimentary internet access, speciality dining, and butler service, amongst other advantages.
Scenic
The Scenic Eclipse, which bills itself as “The World’s First Discovery Yacht,” provides an all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious experience for a maximum of 228 people and has 172 crew members on board. Additionally, the vessel is rated as Polar Class 6, which enables it to navigate to icy environments such as Antarctica. On these trips with an adventure focus, the ship will only have room for 200 passengers and 192 staff members in total. Each of the suites features an own veranda or balcony, butler service, high-tech conveniences, Egyptian cotton bedding, and a minibar that is filled with Champagne, wine, and other beverages of your choice. Indulgences such as onboard helicopters for private trips and the Scenic Neptune, an underwater submarine, are also available to passengers.
On board, passengers can choose from as many as ten unique dining venues, including the elegant Lumière restaurant. This sophisticated French restaurant can only accommodate a total of 35 diners at a time and offers a multi-course degustation menu in addition to a Champagne bar. At Night Market @Koko’s, you may enjoy a teppanayaki grill experience in a more personal setting while dining on delicacies from Asia, India, and the Middle East. This is a less formal dining alternative. And when it’s time for a drink after dinner, stop by the Scenic Lounge Bar to try one (or several) of the more than one hundred different kinds of whiskey they have available. Other onboard activities include cooking lessons at Scenic Épicure, revitalizing spa treatments at Senses Spa, or simply taking it easy on deck 10 with a glass of Champagne while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Expect the second luxury yacht from the class, the Scenic Eclipse II, to make its appearance in the year 2023.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
The luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas currently has five ships in its fleet, with a sixth ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, scheduled to enter service in 2023. The cruise line’s all-inclusive fares include a variety of perks, such as round-trip airfare in either business class or coach (depending on the destination), complimentary pre-cruise hotel stays, land packages consisting of two or three nights, all meals and beverages, free shore excursions, and more. The Seven Seas Splendor will be the line’s newest vessel when it is finally put into service in February of 2020. This sophisticated vessel has an astounding ratio of 567 crew members to just 732 passengers, with all of its sumptuous cabins including private balconies.
Diners have the option of dining at Chartreuse, which serves French cuisine; Pacific Rim, which serves inventive cuisine from Asia; Prime 7, which specializes in aged steaks; Sette Mari at La Veranda, which serves Italian cuisine; or Compass Rose, which serves seafood, steaks, and vegetarian options. Make a reservation at the Pool Grill for dinner under the stars for a laid-back evening. Adults can also enjoy pre-dinner cocktails in one of the lounges as well as nightly entertainment in the Constellation Theater. For a nightcap, adults can sip a good cognac in the Connoisseur Club, which is one of the ship’s favorite hideaways. At Serene Spa & Wellness, you’ll find a wealth of opportunities to work on your physical fitness as well as your mental and emotional well-being.
It is highly recommended that you take into consideration reserving the Regent Suite if you are intending to embark on an experience of a lifetime while sailing the seven seas. This magnificent accommodation can be found on deck 14, and it has more than 4,000 square feet of internal and outdoor space. It also has one of the largest balconies at sea, complete with a Treesse mini-pool, two bedrooms, and a private in-suite spa. The price of the suite also includes a long list of high-end facilities such as access to a special dining room known as “The Study,” a personal car and driver while the ship is docked, free in-suite spa services, a private butler, and a number of other luxurious extras.
Silversea Cruises
More than 900 locations all over the world can be visited on one of Silversea’s luxury ocean or expedition trips, all of which include all meals and entertainment. Its six ultra-luxury ships and five expedition vessels range in size from 51 to 364 suites each and offer spacious cabins with ocean views, the majority of which include private verandas. The price of a cruise typically includes all transportation costs, including door-to-door transfers from your home to the ship, airfare (sometimes in business class), and hotel stays both before and after the voyage. A butler service, a virtually one-to-one ratio of passengers to staff, 24-hour gourmet cuisine, premium alcoholic beverages, one complimentary shore excursion in each port, gratuities, and other amenities will be provided to guests while they are on board.
The Silver Endeavour, the newest ship in the fleet, is being marketed by the company as the most sumptuous exploration ship that can be found at sea. The ship has been given a Polar Class 6 certification, which enables it to travel to the most inaccessible parts of the globe, including the polar regions of Antarctica, where it will spend its first season of operation beginning in November 2022. In addition to having an industry-leading Zodiac-to-guest ratio and expert-to-guest ratio, the features of the Endeavour include cutting-edge technology that may be used for navigation and exploration. A solarium with a swimming pool, whirlpool tub, indoor and outdoor observation areas, and a spa are some of the luxurious amenities that will be available to passengers while they are on board the ship. The ship will have eight public decks; multiple restaurants, bars, and lounges; a two-story solarium with a swimming pool; and a spa. You will also receive Silversea’s high level of service, and because there are only 200 guests and 200 crew members on board, your experience will be both immersive and personalized.
Seabourn
On each of its five luxury ocean vessels, Seabourn provides guests over the age of 18 with an all-inclusive, adult-centric vacation experience. The Seabourn Ovation, the line’s newest cruise ship, can carry up to 600 passengers and features amenities that can be found on the majority of Seabourn’s ships. These include well-appointed oceanfront suites, living areas with dining tables, verandas, a nearly one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, and a Personal Suite Host who will attend to your every whim and provide for your every need.
Seabourn’s hallmark restaurant, The Grill, is one of the world-class dining venues that have been developed in collaboration with acclaimed American chef Thomas Keller. You’ll also have access to Dr. Andrew Weil’s specially designed health and wellness programs. Another feature is the program called “Seabourn Conversations,” in which seasoned professionals lead guests on excursions ashore and then join them for meals and conversations on board the ship afterward. You won’t want to pass up the opportunity to experience “Caviar in the Surf” while you’re on your cruise. This one-of-a-kind occasion takes place in specific locations and features chilled Champagne, caviar, live music, and a barbecue, all of which are staged against the backdrop of white sand beaches and turquoise waters in stunning settings all over the world.
Seabourn Venture is the line’s first adventure ship, and it will make her first voyage in July 2022. If you are interested in small-ship luxury expeditions, you should check out Seabourn Venture. Seabourn Pursuit, the sister ship of Seabourn Venture, is scheduled to join the fleet in 2023. These two ships have a total of 132 oceanfront rooms, a 26-person expedition team, and two submarines that can each hold six passengers, and they go to five continents across the world.
Alternative Top-Rated Adults-Only Cruising Choices
Even while these larger ships are family-friendly and provide activities for families with children of all ages, adults may still find secret retreats and dining and bar places that are just for them. These locations are typically more tranquil and removed from the bustle of the crowds. If you are taking a trip on one of these lines with (or without) children, you will want to be aware of the locations that are restricted to adults only so that you may make plans for an afternoon or evening out without the children.
The Solarium and Le Voyage may be found on the Celebrity Cruises ship Celebrity Beyond.
Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, located on the newest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, Celebrity Beyond, offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience reserved exclusively for adults. Daniel Boulud, the world-famous chef who serves as the Global Culinary Ambassador for the line, designed the menu for this sophisticated location, which features meals that were inspired by his travels. In addition, the restaurant boasts an extensive wine list for patrons to peruse while they are enjoying their meals there.
The Solarium is a well-liked adults-only space that can be found on the Resort Deck of all of Celebrity’s ships, including Celebrity Beyond. This location is perfect for unwinding when the time comes. This secluded spot by the pool, which is covered by a glass dome and flooded with natural light, is ideal for catching up on some reading or taking a power nap. You can also get a small breakfast or lunch at The Spa Café and Juice Bar while you’re there, or you can order your favorite alcoholic beverage and relax in the hot tub as you drink it.
The new raised bar spaces are another venue that caters to an adult audience and can be found on Celebrity Beyond. Craft cocktails are served in an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere at the first World Class Bar in the Edge series, which is a popular spot on other Celebrity ships. In addition, you shouldn’t miss out on the redesigned two-story Sunset Bar that Nate Berkus, an interior designer and TV personality, has created. The bar’s new location in the aft of the vessel provides almost twice the space of its earlier incarnations, in addition to stunning views of the wake.
The Sanctuary and the Sanctuary Bungalow, both operated by Princess Cruises
An respite from the hustle and bustle of the ship’s public areas can be found at The Sanctuary, which is an area reserved exclusively for guests aged 18 and up. The tranquil top-deck location is accessible on all Princess Cruises ships and boasts soft lounge chairs, a setting reminiscent of a spa, and Serenity Stewards who serve a variety of light nibbles, spa cuisine, and other refreshments. To completely decompress, you might want to think about arranging a private cabana where you can get a massage performed outside in the fresh air. The location of the venue that is off-limits to children varies from ship to ship. In addition, adults can take advantage of the exclusive Retreat pool, cabanas, and bar area on six of Princess Cruises’ ships, including Sky Princess, Majestic Princess, Regal Princess, Royal Princess, Enchanted Princess, and Discovery Princess. Additionally, on the more recent ships, such as the Discovery Princess, the Enchanted Princess, and the Sky Princess, The Sanctuary features a larger space with additional cabanas.
When you get off the ship to go on an excursion to Princess Cays, the private island that the cruise company owns in the Bahamas, plan to spend the day relaxing in one of the Sanctuary Bungalows that are reserved exclusively for adults. The rentals can accommodate a total of four people, and the price already includes the use of two complimentary float rentals. The location is just a few minutes away from the beach and the water. You also have the option of ordering a gourmet picnic to bring with you to the beach to enjoy while you relax.
Adults-Only Retreat, Serenity, Offered by Carnival Cruise Line
This tranquil outdoor hideaway, reserved exclusively for adults, can be found on all of Carnival Cruise Line’s cruise ships. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of venues and areas designated for families. Passengers who are at least 21 years old are granted free access to the area, and while they are there, they can take advantage of amenities including whirlpools, daybeds, and lounge chairs. Take in the warm sun and ocean air with a signature sangria in hand, or stop for a healthy meal at Fresh Creations Salad outlet (available on select ships) for an alfresco lunch. Both of these options are available on select ships. Before stepping back into the high-energy environment found in other areas of the ship, passengers have the opportunity to make the most of some alone time by taking a little sleep, reading a nice book, or simply kicking back and relaxing.
Pools like the Quiet Cove and Serenity Bay, and more, are available on Disney Cruise Line ships.
Even though children and younger travelers are the primary demographic that Disney Cruise Line caters to, the company nonetheless provides a variety of areas and activities for guests aged 18 and up. The Disney Wish, the newest ship in the Disney fleet, features various opulent areas reserved exclusively for adults and decorated with characters and settings from “Beauty and the Beast.” Make a reservation at the Palo Steakhouse, which takes its inspiration from the character Cogsworth and serves cutting-edge Italian food in addition to its excellent steaks. Enchanté, helmed by three-Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Lallement, is the ideal venue for a romantic evening for two if you are a fan of cuisine prepared in the French way and wines of the highest caliber, all of which are served in an opulent and glittering atmosphere (think Lumiere). Before dinner at either location, stop by Palo at The Rose for a signature cocktail immediately outside the restaurant’s entrance. After dinner, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge bar, which is reserved exclusively for adults and features views of distant galaxies that are always changing.
Adult passengers can unwind with an after-dinner drink at a bar or lounge, watch a sports game on satellite TV, dance the night away in a trendy club, watch live entertainment or a cabaret show, or catch a game on satellite TV. All of these activities are available on most cruise ships. On Disney’s Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy, and Wish ships, you can find a peaceful place to unwind at the Quiet Cove Pool, which is located outside. Treatment rooms with ocean views, elegant spa villas, and other amenities are available at Senses Spa & Salon, where guests can indulge in an even higher level of pampering. Serenity Bay is a beautiful length of beach that is reserved exclusively for adults on Castaway Cay, the private island that Disney Cruise Line owns and operates.
Vibe Beach Club, Posh Beach Club, and Spice H2O are all part of the Norwegian Cruise Line.
The adults-only areas of three of Norwegian Cruise Line’s outdoor venues are reserved exclusively for customers aged 18 and up (though specific spaces vary by ship). The venues offer a variety of amenities, including ocean views, bars, plush seating, and more. Vibe Beach Club is a sun deck that can be found on the Norwegian ships Bliss, Joy, Escape, Getaway, and Breakaway. Here, guests can relax in oversized hot tubs and take advantage of perks such as a full-service bar and chilled towels. The beach club on the Norwegian Encore, one of the line’s newest ships, is expansive and spread out across two levels. In addition, the recently introduced Norwegian Prima features an elevated beach club experience, complete with the first infinity hot tubs ever offered by the line. Vibe Beach Club offers multiday passes that can be purchased in advance, and cabana rentals are available for those who want a little more privacy.
A snack buffet, fruit skewers on a stick, and cold water spritzers are some of the complimentary pleasures that may be enjoyed at the Posh Beach Club on the Norwegian Epic. Passes valid for a single day or many days can be purchased by adult ship passengers; however, guests staying in a Haven suite receive complimentary entry to the Posh Beach Club. Another arena reserved only for adults, Spice H2O can be found on the Norwegian Bliss, Joy, Escape, Getaway, Breakaway, Epic, Star, and Spirit ships, and guests do not have to pay to enter. After dark, the area transforms into an outdoor dance club, where guests may spend the evening dancing and celebrating under the night sky.
Solarium, a Royal Caribbean International Establishment
Solarium is Royal Caribbean International’s free adult-only area that does not allow children and is open to guests aged 16 and up. This indoor-outdoor paradise offers breathtaking panoramas and limitless views of the sea, and it is located at the front of every ship in the fleet, with the exception of the Quantum Class ships, which only have indoor spaces. Adult passengers can take advantage of serene lounging areas, swimming pools, and whirlpool tubs with a view, regardless of the weather, because the interior space is completely covered in glass from ceiling to floor. On top of that, certain ships offer an additional means of relaxation in the form of a cascading lagoon. Be sure to stop by the Solarium Bar (or Sunshine Bar on Quantum ships) to pick up a refreshing tropical drink or non-alcoholic beverage to enjoy poolside while taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean.
