Oh, the allure of adults only vacations. For parents on a rare, much-needed trip away from the kids or those just looking for a romantic, relaxing getaway – cruising could be just the ticket. While strictly adults only cruise ships are pretty uncommon, they’re not impossible to find.
In Europe, Thomson Cruise Fleet offers adults only itineraries and P & O Cruises features three adults only ships; the Adonis, Acadia and Oriana. Currently no cruise lines in the U.S. are operating adults only cruises.
However, this does not mean peace and solitude onboard a cruise is unattainable – you just need to know what to look for and what steer clear of.
8 Ways to Create an Adults Only Cruise Experience
1. Steer clear of larger cruise ships that cater to young families and spring breakers
2. Premium or Luxury Cruise Lines offer fewer children’s programs or none at all. The more upscale environment and higher price tags inevitably deter most families with young children. Adventure or ‘Niche’ Cruise Lines may also have minimum age requirements and focus on experiences and expeditions ashore rather than onboard youth programs.
3. Try to avoid scheduling your cruise during summer vacation or school breaks when families are more apt to travel. Cruises of 10 or more nights also decreases your risk of a voyage full of smaller cruises.
4. Or, if you are planning to sail during a school break, plan to visit a destination that typically attracts more adults like the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Bermuda, Alaska and Hawaii. River Cruises are becoming increasingly popular with adult cruisers.
5. Once you have found your desired destination and cruise ship – you may want to consider reserving a higher category stateroom. Balconies, mini-suites and suites are perfect for romance. Some even have upgraded amenities like plush bathrobes, bathtubs, and butler service. Plus, what could beat sitting out on your private verandah to watch the sunrise or sunset (whichever you prefer)! But, if you can, try to avoid cabin locations near pools, children’s areas and teen clubs for more privacy.
6. Most cruise lines now offer an open seating dining option. This allows you to sit with whomever you wish and dine whenever you wish. So you can enjoy an intimate dinner for two, or request a larger table with new friends.
7. Specialty Restaurants are featured on many contemporary and premium cruise ships. There is an additional cost for this top quality dining experience that usually deters families with young children. Many passengers dine at alternative dining venues to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a more elegant environment and attentive service.
8. Even on the larger, family-friendly cruise ships there are areas onboard designated for adults only. This provides you with an opportunity to segregate yourself from the younger cruisers for relaxation and entertainment. Adults Only areas onboard ships may include:
- Solarium or Private Pool
- Spa and Fitness
- Bars and Lounges
- Casino
- Late Night Comedy Shows
- Specialty Restaurants
As there are areas onboard that are designated for adults, there will also be venues that were created with the younger traveler in mind including:
- Water Parks
- Kiddie Pools
- Sports Courts
- Arcades
- Youth Program Facilities
- Main Pool
- Free Pizzeria, Ice Cream
Looking for spice, passion, looking for an adventure with your significant other, looking for romance?
Those that only see the low-maintenance and affordability of a cruise vacation may not venture to think about cruising as a romantic getaway, an escape with that special someone.
But adding romance to a next cruise is as easy as walking out on deck. Imagine sailing the open seas, wind in your hair, sun on your face, and arms around your hunny as the sun sets slowly over the horizon.
About Alara Shannon, Cruise & Travel Writer
Alara has traveled extensively since an early age. After the birth of her daughter, when an opportunity for a career in cruise travel presented itself, Alara decided to re-enter the workforce. She hopped on board with one of the largest cruise agencies and excelled in both cruise sales and customer service. This led to the chance to dive headfirst into the Internet Marketing world; taking on the roles of resident Bloggess, custom content creator and social media expert. Beyond a love of anything travel related, her life revolves around her family of four (husband + 2 little ones), writing, playing piano, coffee, recycling, and crafting (well, attempting to craft). Her dream destination? New Zealand!
