best caribbean cruises for young adults

8 Best Cruises for Young Adults – By a Young Adult

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Are you under 30 and looking for the best cruises for young adults? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. As a young adult who’s been cruising for years, I know first hand which cruise lines cater towards our demographic.

Choosing a cruise as a young person isn’t one size fits all. We all look for different things when we’re on vacation. Whether it’s partying, relaxing, seeing new places or even having a romantic cruise with our significant other, there is a perfect cruise for you!

With that being said, here are the 8 best cruise lines for young adults.

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8 Best Cruises for Young Adults

1. royal caribbean cruises.

If you’re a young adult, you’ll love a Royal Caribbean cruise . Whether you’re cruising with friends or planning the ultimate family vacation, there is something for everyone!

Royal Caribbean cruise ships are amazing for young people. There is nonstop fun, endless activities and amazing drinks! This is true whether you take 3-5 day short cruises, or a longer cruise of 7-8 days.

Onboard a Royal Caribbean ship, you’ll find great things to do including zip lines, rock climbing, water parks, basketball courts, mini golf, pools and hot tubs.

The nightlife on Royal Caribbean is also super fun. Whether you want to go to the club, listen to live music, watch game shows or stand-up comedy, you won’t be bored on these cruise ships!

On Royal Caribbean, there is always something going on, even as it gets late. The various entertainment venues are busy and the nightclub is a blast.

Royal Caribbean really caters towards young people, so it’s a great place to make new friends. Recently, I was on the Oasis of the Seas and I met some really cool friends who I’m still in contact with.

The brand new Royal Caribbean cruise ship Icon of the Seas is the ultimate paradise for young adults. With a mix of fun activities, onboard attractions, and evening entertainment venues, it is one of the best cruise ships for younger cruisers.

Cruising out of PortMiami, Icon of the Seas is a great option for younger cruisers.

Wondering about the activities on Royal Caribbean? Check out the Cruise Compass daily planners from our recent cruise.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

If you’re looking into a cruise vacation with Royal Caribbean, I’d recommend booking an itinerary that stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay . Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island, which is incredibly fun for young adults.

There is a huge water park, gorgeous beaches, zip-lining, jet skiing, a hot air balloon and Oasis Lagoon, a massive pool. If you like pool parties, then you’re going to love the Oasis Lagoon because it has that crazy fun spring break vibe.

Tip: If you want to cruise with younger people, book larger and newer cruise ships, and shorter cruise trips, as these tend to attract a younger demographic.

Royal Caribbean Cruises for Young Adults:

• Icon of the Seas
• Utopia of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas

Related: What to Pack for a Royal Caribbean Cruise

2. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival cruises are a great option for younger adults who are looking for that party vibe. If you’re looking for a great cruise on a budget , Carnival is your best bet.

The clientele on Carnival tends to be young, or at least young at heart!

On a Carnival cruise ship you will be partying, drinking and there are endless amounts of onboard activities. You will find basketball courts, ropes courses, pools, hot tubs, water slides and even a roller coaster on some cruise ships!

There are some great things on Carnival, such as 24-hour pizza, Guy’s Burger Joint and amazing drinks.

Booking shorter cruises on Carnival will be more affordable which tends to attract a younger demographic.

Last summer, I sailed on the Carnival Venezia, and there were many young adults. There is food, entertainment, and a party atmosphere catered to young adults.

The affordable price and fun atmosphere make Carnival an ideal cruise line for younger cruisers.

Tip: Cruising during summer break, winter break or spring break are all seasons that attract young cruisers.

Carnival Cruises for Young Adults:

• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Vista

Related: What’s Included on a Carnival Cruise – Everything You Need to Know

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has great cruises for a younger crowd . Norwegian cruise ships definitely have a fun party vibe, perfect for anyone from college students to young couples.

Out of the cruise lines I’ve sailed, Norwegian definitely attracts the most young adults who are looking to have a good time. If you want to spend your cruise drinking, partying and having fun, you will love Norwegian Cruise Lines!

There are plenty of activities onboard a Norwegian cruise ship that cater towards older kids, teenagers and young adults. There are so many fun things to do on NCL, especially on sea days !

You’ll find water slides, rock climbing, mini golf, bowling and even a race car track on some of Norwegian’s newer cruise ships. Of course, there are pools and hot tubs as well.

One of the nice things about Norwegian is it’s Freestyle dress code , which makes packing for your cruise easier.

When booking your Norwegian cruise, you can also book with the Free at Sea promotion , which has extra perks like free wifi, shore excursions, a beverage package and dining package.

Solo Cruisers

Norwegian is also known as being a really good cruise line for solo cruisers. If you’re a solo traveler, there are studio staterooms designed for specifically for those who are traveling on their own.

Additionally, Norwegian has the Studio Lounge which is an area for solo travellers to meet and mingle.

Norwegian Cruises for Young Adults:

• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Epic
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Prima
• Norwegian Viva
• Norwegian Aqua

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Perks Explained

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

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4. Celebrity Cruises

If you’re looking for a modern luxury vacation experience, Celebrity Cruises is your best bet. If you like to relax and take it easy on vacation, you will love Celebrity Cruises.

The food and service on Celebrity is top notch and the age group of clients tends to be a bit older. However this can be perfect for a couples cruise . The nightlife on Celebrity is quiet, so if you’re looking for a party ship, Celebrity won’t be for you.

Celebrity does an amazing job at keeping a relaxing environment, where you truly feel like you’re on vacation.

Visiting new destination can be tiring. After a long day of exploring, Celebrity has the best cruise ships to come back to. On your way back onto the ship, you will be offered citrus water and cold towels which feel amazing!

Celebrity is a great cruise line for young couples who want to relax, eat good and explore the world together. Furthermore, their cruise ships are stunning, making them ideal for taking pictures to post on social media.

Celebrity Cruises for Young Adults:

• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Ascent
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Apex

Related: What to Wear on a Celebrity Cruise

5. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises doesn’t tend to attract many young travellers. However, I think it is really good cruise line for young adults. As someone who has cruised with Princess a lot, they have great food, great service and the night life is still really fun.

Plus, the Ocean Medallion and MedallionNet wifi is pretty awesome!

Recently, I did a New Year’s Cruise on a Princess ship and there were a ton of people my age. I made so many friends, partied every night, ate well and had the best time.

Princess offers an upscale cruising experience, which many younger cruisers can appreciate. You’ll enjoy a Princess cruise if you prefer a relaxing and luxurious vibe over a spring break party vibe.

Whether you’re planning a couple’s getaway, a trip with your friends, or a family vacation, a Princess cruise is an amazing travel experience.

If you want to meet others your age, here are some tips:

• Princess cruises that are 7 nights or less will have a younger crowd
• Cruise during the summer, holidays and school breaks for a more diverse age group and younger demographic
• If you’re planning a couples cruise, Princess is a good option.

Princess Cruises for Young Adults:

• Sky Princess
• Sun Princess
• Regal Princess
• Discovery Princess
• Enchanted Princess
• Emerald Princess

Related: What to Pack for a Princess Cruise

6. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is a relatively new cruise line that is actually targeting young adults with a very cool and fun vibe. Virgin is an adult only , luxury cruise line that is line no other cruise line.

Onboard a Virgin cruise ship you won’t find waterslides and race cars, as you might on family friendly cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival or Norwegian. Instead, there are activities, entertainment and dining that are catered towards a hip adult crowd.

On a Virgin ship there are pools and hot tubs, a gym that offers classes, cruise ship balconies with hammocks and even a tattoo parlour.

The best thing about Virgin Voyages being an adult only cruise line, is that you don’t have to worry kids taking over the pools and hot tubs!

Virgin Voyages Ships For Young Adults:

• Virgin Scarlet Lady
• Virgin Valiant Lady
• Virgin Resilient Lady
• Virgin Brilliant Lady

Related: 6 Best Cruise Lines For College Students – By a Recent Graduate

7. Disney Cruise Line

Are a big Disney fan? Disney cruises can be a lot of fun for young adults and young families with kids. If you’re a Disney lover, then a Disney cruise is something you should experience once in your life.

While Disney Cruise Line is known for having Disney themed family cruises , there are actually some adult only areas on their cruise ships.

Compared to other cruise lines, Disney cruises tends to have a lot of young children, so be prepared for a more family friendly atmosphere. On a Disney ship the food is very good, the entertainment is fun and the staff is really friendly.

Onboard a Disney ship they have a big screen outside by the pool, hot tubs and water slides.

Disney Cruises for Young Adults:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Wish
• Disney Treasure

Related: 27 Awesome Things To Do on a Cruise on Sea Days

8. MSC Cruises

If you’re looking to have a good cruise on a budget , MSC cruises is the cruise line for you. Recently, MSC has made a push to attract a younger demographic to their cruise lines.

MSC is well known for their absolutely stunning cruise ships. Many actually have real Swarovski crystal staircases!

MSC cruise ships are beautifully decorated and innovative. On the MSC Seashore, it has a New York City theme with several area’s around the ship being inspired by the big apple.

Onboard an MSC ship, you’ll find tons of activities including water slides, bowling allies, rope courses, beautiful pool areas, relaxation areas and hot tubs. Plus, they are well known for their amazing pizza!

I recently cruised with MSC, and it was such a good time! They have a great nightlife, plenty of relaxing areas, and tasty food.

As a young cruiser, I can confidently say that MSC offers the best value in the market. Their unbeatable promotions and wide range of offerings ensure that you get the most out of your cruise, without breaking the bank. You’re guaranteed a fantastic experience every time you sail with MSC.

MSC Cruises for Young Adults:

• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seascape
• MSC World America
• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Virtuosa

Related & Popular Posts:

• 7 Best Cruises for Teenagers
• 75 Genius Cruise Tips, Hacks & Secrets
• 30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know
• Caribbean Cruise Packing List
• Bahamas Cruise Packing List
• The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Gratuities
• 17 Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Final Thoughts on The Best Cruises for Young Adults

Well there it is, the best cruises for young adults! As someone who has grown up cruising, I can say that a cruise vacation is the best vacation .

If you’ve never been on a cruise, be careful, because they are addictive! Once you cruise it’s hard to go back to an ordinary vacation. Whether you’re trying to relax or party, there is a cruise line for everyone.

Have you ever been on a cruise & if so, what’s your favorite? Please let me know in the comments below.

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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The 6 best Royal Caribbean ships for adults

Royal Caribbean is known for some of the world's largest cruise ships , over-the-top onboard amenities and some of the best entertainment at sea — perfect for young families. While Royal Caribbean does not run adults-only cruises, grownups traveling without children will be glad to know that certain ships seem tailor-made for couples, mom-and-daughter duos or parents traveling with their adult children.

With over 25 ships in its fleet, Royal Caribbean has a ship for every type of traveler, not just families with young kids. Whether you're looking for fewer upper-deck attractions and more places to relax outside or upscale dining and entertainment for a date night after an exciting day in port, this cruise line has you covered.

Also, most ships offer adults-only pools and lounges where you can escape from the younger cruisers on board if you so choose. Cruisers looking for a party scene can enjoy nightclubs open until the wee hours of the morning, and foodies can find an elevated dining experience at the line's many specialty restaurants.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

For the avid traveler looking to get away from the standard Caribbean sailings, some of the line's ships have sailings that go to unique ports of call where you can immerse yourself in a new culture and indulge in local culinary delights.

If you're looking for a more grownup vacation, these are the six best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for adults.

Rhapsody of the Seas

Don't overlook Rhapsody of the Seas just because it's one of the oldest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. It still has lots to offer adults looking for a fun getaway, especially to Europe, where you can book back-to-back port-intensive cruises for a customized vacation.

Rhapsody of the Seas offers some unique sailings, including a two-night sailing from Israel that can be tacked onto longer Mediterranean sailings, such as five-night Greek Isles cruises. For an even longer sailing, consider the 14-night transatlantic cruise, which stops in Alicante, Spain, the Canary Islands and the Bahamas.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruises for every type of traveler

The ship is also one of Royal Caribbean's smallest, carrying 1,998 passengers at double occupancy (compared to 5,734 on Wonder of the Seas ). Yet it's got much to offer adults looking to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Book a relaxing treatment, such as a couples massage or solo facial, in the serene oasis of the Vitality Spa. Or take a dip in the Solarium, the adults-only retreat with loungers, pools and panoramic ocean views.

In the evening, watch the sunset at the ship's signature Viking Crown Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows surround clusters of cozy lounge chairs just beckoning adults to linger over their favorite drink and enjoy the view. After dark, the lounge becomes a dance club with a DJ.

Grownups can also enjoy evening dance parties and movies under the stars on the pool deck as the ship sails to its next port of call. Chops Grille, the onboard steakhouse, provides an intimate setting for a romantic dinner for two.

Anthem of the Seas

Adults looking for unique onboard activities, mixed with a manageable size and more grownup vibe, will enjoy the 4,180-passenger Anthem of the Seas.

On board, the North Star, a pod-like viewing deck unique to this class of ships, suspends travelers 300 feet above the ocean for incredible views. We recommend taking the ride on a port day to get a birds-eye view of the shore and city skylines. For a different kind of thrill, try the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, which gives you the sensation of free falling.

Of course, no cruise is complete without dinner and a show. One of the more unique things about Anthem of the Seas is its four smaller main dining rooms rather than one enormous main restaurant. Of the four venues, The Grande is the most elegant and tends to draw in more adults. After dinner, head to the theater to see "We Will Rock You," a musical tribute to Queen that originated in London's West End. Anthem is the only Royal Caribbean ship to offer this production.

Related: The craziest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

The ship also caters to adults with the time and desire for longer vacations, with seven- to 14-night summer cruises to the Norwegian fjords, Canary Islands and the Mediterranean. If you want to stay stateside, there are seven and eight-night sailings that go from Cape Liberty to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay . You can find a more grownup vibe at the Chill Island beach or the swim-up bar in the Oasis Lagoon pool. The line has hinted that an adults-only beach is coming soon.

Quantum of the Seas

The longer the cruise, the fewer the kids. So, for a very adult Royal Caribbean cruise, choose the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas for its longer sailings to Hawaii , the South Pacific or Australia. You'll visit some of the most beautiful islands in the world and find far fewer kids on board due to the duration and school-year timing of the itineraries.

For an adult-focused cruise to Alaska , try Quantum's weeklong voyages to the Last Frontier from May through September. The ship sails to such exciting ports of call as Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan and offers scenic cruising through the Endicott Arm and by Dawes Glacier.

You'll find plenty of kids on board during Alaska sailings. However, adults rarely have to go far to find a place without kids. (Plus, the ship's excellent kids club keeps many young cruisers entertained and out of sight.)

Adults can seek out age-appropriate fun at the onboard escape room, watch an outdoor movie under the stars or embrace their inner child by shooting hoops or driving bumper cars at the SeaPlex. By day, enjoy a drink or snack and take in the 270-degree views in the Two70 lounge. Return at night when the space transforms into an immersive theater using high-tech elements to put on musical performances.

If you're looking for great views from the pool or hot tub, head to the indoor, adults-only Solarium, where you never have to worry about the cold Alaska weather or the hot Hawaiian sun making you uncomfortable. The forward-facing venue offers unobstructed views from the plentiful lounge chairs around the windows.

Related: 35 Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks that will make your voyage better

Quantum of the Seas, like sister ship Anthem, has a multitude of dining venues that serve great dishes around the ship. A meal at Wonderland is worth the additional cost because it's as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. The molecular gastronomy menu features delightful bites of pork belly, tuna sashimi and buffalo chicken presented in a playful way that guests might not expect (and most kids may not appreciate).

Mariner of the Seas

The 3,114-passenger Mariner of the Seas is an ideal ship for multigenerational cruises, with plenty of activities to please everyone from young adults to grandparents.

Older adults play cards or read in the serene library and card room or enjoy the ocean views from the Solarium. Young adults can pack their day with high-energy activities, such as laser tag, ice skating and boogie boarding on the FlowRider surf simulator.

At night, everyone in the family can come together for a meal. Reserve a table at Jamie's Italian for a special group dinner. All of the pasta is made fresh, including the signature truffle tagliatelle, where thick noodles are tossed in truffle cream with fresh truffles and a hint of nutmeg. The fan-favorite "meat plank" is easy to share and laden with salami, prosciutto, mozzarella and focaccia.

Afterward, the group can catch the ice skating show (you're never too old to enjoy the musical numbers and colorful costumes) or musical performances in the main theater before the younger set heads to the bars and the older generation turns in for the night.

Mariner of the Seas sails from Galveston, Texas, and Port Canaveral, Florida, to destinations across the Bahamas and Caribbean. Shorter four or five-night sailings are a great way to fit in a long weekend away, especially for younger adults with less time off work. Longer eight-night sailings to the islands make for a true getaway.

Jewel of the Seas

Adults who relish scenic cruising should look no further than the 2,702-passenger Jewel of the Seas. The beautiful ship travels to a wide range of destinations, with fall foliage sailings in Canada and New England , adventurous itineraries to the Arctic Circle and northern destinations like Iceland and Greenland, and traditional cruises to the Caribbean.

The smaller ship is more desirable for adults looking to enjoy the destinations they are visiting rather than trying out the latest attractions at sea. The Viking Crown Lounge offers a quiet getaway during the day for looking out over the passing scenery and a hyped-up dance club at night. You can even get great landscape views from the glass elevators running along the sides of the ship.

No matter where you sail, Jewel of the Seas offers plenty of onboard activities suitable for adults. Take an all-access tour of the inner parts of the ship most people never see, test your luck at table games or slot machines in the casino, or dance the night away at the '70s disco party.

Foodies and wine enthusiasts may never tire of the many bars and lounges on Jewel of the Seas. Try a variety of wines, either by the glass or the bottle, at Vintages wine bar, people watch and enjoy a cocktail at the Centrum lobby bar, or grab a seat at Vortex, where the spinning bar slowly rotates everyone around the room.

When it's time to eat, head to Giovanni's Table, where Italian dishes are prepared and served like they are at your nonna's house. The kids might turn up their noses, but grownups will love the signature dishes, such as the grilled octopus appetizer and the housemade linguine with clams entree.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean ship

Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world, carrying 5,497 passengers at double occupancy. It's got activities for all ages and interests, with themed areas of the ships – called neighborhoods – dedicated to different pursuits, such as entertainment or swimming and sports. Adults can have thrilling experiences during the day, find their zen before heading off to dinner and enjoy entertainment late into the night, all by moving between a few decks.

Adventurous adults will love zip lining over the top of the Boardwalk or sliding down the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story dry slide. Those looking for a more laid-back vacation can book treatment at the Vitality Spa, sample different varietals at a wine tasting or learn how to make sushi.

The ship's Central Park area is romantic and made for adults. It's a fantastic place to sit back with a cocktail and people-watch. Here, you'll find upscale shops, restaurants and bars with indoor and outdoor seating set amid a garden of real plants and trees. To spend a full evening in Central Park, start at the Trellis Bar for wine or cocktails, then head to 150 Central Park, where the menu highlights seasonal ingredients.

Those looking for a more exciting evening will want to hang around Royal Promenade, which feels more like a buzzy city street than a cruise ship deck. Here, an English pub, a bar staffed by robots and a Latin-inspired lounge all come together to make for a fun night out. For a full night of entertainment, check out a live performance of "Grease" in the ship's main theater.

Harmony of the Seas sets sail from Galveston and Miami, taking cruisers to the Caribbean on four- to eight-night sailings. The Miami sailings all stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, Puerto Rico and Honduras.

Bottom line

The best Royal Caribbean ships for adults may still have kids on board. However, they also offer something extra for grownups — whether that's a more intimate ship size, out-of-the-ordinary itineraries, incredible choice of bars and restaurants, serene hangouts or thrilling attractions for active adults.

No matter which ship you choose, cruising with Royal Caribbean offers the ability to visit some of the world's most sought-after destinations on a ship that teems with varied activities. While you won't find adults-only Royal Caribbean cruises, you can tailor your cruise experience on these six ships to focus on more grown-up pursuits.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

9 Best Cruises for Young Adults You Can’t Knock before you Try!

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: July 9, 2023

Categories Cruise Tips

Wondering what are the best cruises for young adults and should you even take a cruise or is cruising just for old farts?

Cruises offer the perfect vacation option for those seeking a laid-back and entertaining holiday experience. It’s a time to unwind, enjoy the onboard entertainment, and indulge in relaxation. And young people even college students enjoy that too I have to say!

In the past, cruises stereotypically were associated with an older demographic. And yes, it’s true that oldies still really like cruises…. BUT cruise lines have recently realized that they can also be an appealing vacation to a younger group of travelers too and certain cruise lines have started catering to a younger market, which is why cruises have gained increasing popularity among young adults.

If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you might be wondering which cruise lines are best suited for your age group and which cater for a younger market.

One of the top choices for young adults seeking an adventure-filled journey is Carnival Cruise Lines . Known for hosting the best parties at sea, Carnival Cruise Lines offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. We have seen younger travelers really get into cruising on Carnival even getting matching cruise shirts .

Royal Caribbean is another popular option, offering exciting onboard activities such as watersports and live entertainment, making it an ideal choice for young adventurers.

For those looking for vacation packages within their budget, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of options, including awesome Free at Sea promotions which include Free NCL Drink Packages – always a win and something we love about NCL.

With numerous excellent cruise lines to consider, partaking in onboard activities and entertainment is an integral part of the cruise experience. Today, we’ll delve into some of the best cruise lines for young adults – that aren’t just for greybeards. We are in our 30s and have been cruising regularly since our 20s so we know a think or two about cruises for young people, including the party cruise for college students, whats good and whats not.

9 Best Cruises for Young Adults You Must Try!

Royal caribbean.

Cost: $70 to $6,365 | Trip Length: 2 nights to 19 nights (generally)

Royal Caribbean stands out as one of the most popular cruise lines for young adults, thanks to its great deals and attractive prices.

Travelers can embark on an unforgettable journey aboard one of Royal Caribbean’s award-winning ships without breaking the bank. What sets this cruise line apart is its frequent sales and opportunities to save money on your trip.

It’s also a fun cruise line and not too fuddy-duddy. They are continually improving their product to appeal to a younger market.

Why Young Adults Choose Royal Caribbean: Every Royal Caribbean cruise ship is designed to deliver the ultimate sea adventure. Onboard, you’ll find a wide range of activities, including water parks and rock climbing walls. The ships boast a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars, offering live entertainment. And when you’re in need of some relaxation, tranquil lounge areas with nearby bars await.

Best Royal Caribbean Cruises For Young Adults (Examples, cruise itineraries constantly change)

• Perfect Day Getaway Cruise:This 2-night cruise departs from Orlando, FL, taking travelers to CocoCay in the Bahamas.
• Western Caribbean Cruise: Embark on a 7-night cruise from Galveston, TX, exploring Roatan, Honduras, as well as Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.
• Fall Foliage Southbound Cruise: Depart from Quebec City on this 11-night cruise, exploring stunning locations throughout Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Maine, and New Jersey.

Get the best deals on your Royal Caribbean cruise here .

Norwegian Cruise

Cost: $261 to $9,518 | Trip Length: 2 days to 21 days (generally)

Norwegian Cruise Line offers an extensive range of options, making it an excellent choice for young adults. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury, this cruise line has something for everyone.

Why Young Adults Choose Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line prides itself on providing a freestyle vacation experience, allowing guests to enjoy activities on their own schedule. Onboard, travelers can indulge in activity zones, deck parties, and gourmet meals from a variety of restaurants. I really like that there is no set schedule with Norwegian making it better for young people.

Norwegian cruises is one of our personal favorite cruise lines. We recently came back from a trip on the Norwegian Star and had a great time. If you are hoping for more of a party cruise with Norwegian we would suggest booking a Bahamas or Caribbean cruise.

Best Norwegian Cruise Line Cruises For Young Adults (Examples, cruise itineraries constantly change):

• Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau, & Ketchikan: This 7-day cruise sets sail from Seattle, WA, taking guests to several stunning destinations in Alaska before journeying to Victoria, British Columbia.
• Mediterranean: Italy, France, & Spain: Depart from Barcelona, Spain, on this 9-day cruise, exploring captivating locations throughout Spain, France, Italy, Sardinia, and Majorca.

Get the best deals on your Norwegian cruise here .

Carnival Cruise Lines

Cost: $100 to $2,600 | Trip Length: 2 days to 18 days (generally)

Carnival Cruise Lines has emerged as a top choice for young adults seeking non-stop fun and excitement. With a plethora of different cruise options, the party never stops aboard these ships. One of the best cruise options for college students looking for a good time on spring break

Why Young Adults Choose Carnival Cruise Lines: Exciting onboard activities are the main draw for young adults. Travelers can enjoy thrilling experiences like ziplining, family feud games, or exhilarating water slides.

The ships also feature relaxing spas, ensuring everyone gets a chance to unwind and rejuvenate. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Lines offers spacious and comfortable suites, adding to the appeal for young travelers.

Best Carnival Cruise Lines Cruises For Young Adults (Examples, cruise itineraries constantly change):

• Baja Mexico- Carnival Radiance: This 4-day cruise departs from Long Beach in Los Angeles, CA, taking travelers to Catalina Island and Ensenada.
• The Bahamas- Carnival Liberty: Depart from Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL, on this 3-day cruise, exploring Bimini, an island in the western district of the Bahamas.
• Eastern Caribbean- Carnival Elation: Embark on a 7-day cruise from Jacksonville, FL, visiting Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, and Nassau.

Get the best deals on your carnival cruise here .

MSC Cruises

Price Range: $119 to $3791 | Trip Duration: 1 night to 117 nights (generally)

MSC Cruises takes pride in offering incredible deals on cruises to top vacation destinations worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a longer getaway or a quick weekend cruise, MSC Cruises has you covered.

Why Young Adults Choose MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises ensures a safe and enjoyable travel experience for young adults. Onboard, you can engage in a variety of activities, including the casino, 4D cinema, and mini bowling. Guests can also savor award-winning entertainment and explore an onboard art gallery. Numerous bars, lounges, restaurants, and buffets cater to your dining and entertainment needs.

Best MSC Cruises Trips for Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)

• Caribbean & Bahamas: Embark on an 8-day cruise from Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL, and explore various enchanting locations in the Bahamas and Mexico.
• Mediterranean: Enjoy a 7-night trip departing from Venice, Italy. This itinerary takes you to captivating destinations like Kotor, Montenegro, Mykonos and Santorini in Greece, and concludes in Bari, Italy, before returning to Venice.

Get the best deals on your MSC cruise here .

Celebrity Cruises 

Price Range: $169 to $20,910 | Trip Duration: 3 nights to 12 nights (generally)

Young adults are drawn to Celebrity Cruises for a taste of the celebrity treatment. This cruise line offers award-winning experiences that take you to some of the most sought-after vacation destinations worldwide.

Why Young Adults Choose Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its tranquil and luxurious ambiance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation at sea. The Retreat provides an exclusive retreat for guests to unwind in a luxury lounge, soak up the sun on the sundeck, or indulge in a meal at a private restaurant.

Best Celebrity Cruises Trips for Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)

• Ultimate Southern Caribbean Cruise: Embark on a 10-night adventure from Fort Lauderdale, FL, exploring stunning destinations such as Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, and St. Kitts & Nevis.
• Western Caribbean Cruise: Set sail on a 7-night journey from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, FL, with stops at Belize City and Cozumel , Mexico, followed by a visit to Bimini, Bahamas, before returning to Fort Lauderdale. 

Get the best deal on your celebrity cruise here .

Disney Cruise Line

Price Range: $1014 to $4747 | Trip Duration: 2 nights to 14 nights (generally)

Disney Cruise Line proves that it’s not just for kids. People of all age groups can embark on a truly magical vacation with Disney’s renowned cruise line. After all, there’s no age limit to experiencing the enchantment of Disney.

Why Young Adults Choose Disney Cruise Line: Disney cruise ships transport passengers to stunning destinations worldwide, offering a perfect blend of adventure and entertainment. Young adults are captivated by the vibrant onboard atmosphere, featuring world-class live entertainment, an extensive selection of dining options, and lively parties. Plus, there’s always a chance to meet beloved Disney characters. And no thats not just for kids!

Best Disney Cruise Line Trips for Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)

• Baja Cruise: Embark on a 5-night cruise from San Diego, CA to the charming city of Ensenada, Mexico.
• 3-Night Bahamian Cruise: Set sail on a 3-night excursion from Miami, FL to the captivating Nassau, Bahamas.

Get the best deal on your Disney cruise here .

Cost: $3,748 to $99,248 | Trip Length: 7 days to 6 months

Seabourn entices travelers with its smaller ships boasting spacious suites, providing exceptional value with all-inclusive travel packages.

Why Young Adults Choose Seabourn: Seabourn caters to an adult-oriented experience, although children are welcome onboard. The atmosphere and activities are tailored for adults, offering opportunities to relax at the spa, engage in fitness activities, and attend intriguing travel lectures.

Exceptional gourmet cuisine and top-notch hospitality further enhance the appeal of Seabourn cruises.

Best Seabourn Cruises For Young Adults:

• Glaciers & Alaska Inside Passage: Embark on a 7-day cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, in Canada, and arrive in Juneau, Alaska, while marveling at the breathtaking glaciers.
• Wonders Of Western Iceland: Embark on a 7-day excursion from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Reykjavik, Iceland, exploring the wonders of Iceland’s western region.
• Riviera Romance: Embark on an 8-day cruise from Monte Carlo, Monaco, and experience the most romantic Mediterranean destinations such as Palamos and Ibiza.

Get the best price on your Seabourn cruise here .

Oceania Cruises

Cost: $1299 to $65,649 | Trip Length: 7 days to 218 days (generally)

Oceania Cruises simplifies the process of booking your dream cruise, offering risk-free planning and competitive rates. Couples can even take advantage of 2-for-1 fares upon occasion.

Why Young Adults Choose Oceania Cruises: Oceania Cruises  elegant and cozy ambiance, coupled with fine dining options, further enhances the appeal for young adults.

Best Oceania Cruises Trips For Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)

• Barcelona to Athens: Embark on a 14-day cruise journey from Barcelona, Spain, to Athens, Greece, with stops at captivating destinations in Malta, Israel, Turkey, and Greece.
• Rome to Miami: Set sail on a 16-day cruise departing from Rome, Italy, and concluding in Miami, Florida. Explore various enchanting locations in France, Spain, the UK, Antigua, and Puerto Rico.

Book the best deal with Oceania on expedia .

Cost: $3950 to $119,600 | Trip Length: 5 days to 140 days

Renowned for its small luxury cruise ships, Silversea offers a lavish vacation experience while exploring the world’s finest destinations.

Why Young Adults Choose Silversea: Silversea is the epitome of luxury cruises, providing round-the-clock butler services to cater to every passenger’s needs. The onboard team excels in delivering personal and friendly service, ensuring a memorable voyage.

Best Silversea Cruises For Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary):

• Galapagos Islands: Embark on a 7-day cruise from San Cristobal, Galapagos, in Ecuador, and explore stunning destinations such as Kicker Rock and Isla Bartolome.
• American West Coast: Embark on an 11-day cruise starting from Vancouver, British Columbia, and culminating in San Diego, California. Experience the allure of Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco along the way.
• Mediterranean: Embark on a 7-day cruise departing from Fusina, Venice, in Italy, and discover captivating destinations in Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and Montenegro.

Get the best deal on a SilverSea cruise with cruisedirect here .

Why Choose Cruises as a Vacation Option as a Young Adult?

In recent years, young adults, including college students and young professionals, have increasingly discovered the appeal of cruises. Cruises have also changed over the years and adapted their activities to reach a younger market who have shown an interest in cruising as their vacation.

The allure of cruises lies in the abundance of activities, entertainment, and the opportunity to explore new destinations, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the world.

The all-inclusive nature of cruises is one of the primary reasons people opt for this type of vacation. With accommodations, meals, and entertainment bundled into a single package, travelers can indulge in a hassle-free getaway that often provides excellent value for their money. Why stay in a hostel when you can cruise for the same $?

Tailored cruises for 21-year-olds and other young adults strike the perfect balance between relaxation, excitement, and cultural immersion. Leading cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line specifically cater to this demographic by offering age-specific activities, parties, and events that create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere onboard.

Moreover, many cruise lines now curate themed voyages centered around specific interests, such as music festivals, wellness retreats, or adventure excursions, making cruises an ideal vacation choice for young travelers.

Top Pick: Best Cruise for Young Adults in 2023

Our top pick for the best cruise tailored for young adults in 2023 is the Norwegian Encore by Norwegian Cruise Line . This cutting-edge ship provides an exceptional combination of entertainment, dining options, and onboard activities specifically designed to cater to the preferences and interests of young adults, ensuring an unforgettable cruise experience.

We really love the Norwegian brand (we’re now sapphire members and started cruising with them in our 20s) so it comes as no surprise that Norwegian came out on top for us. We think it is a great cruise brand for younger people.

The Norwegian Encore stands out with its extensive array of onboard activities. Young adults can embrace the excitement of the largest race track at sea, the Encore Speedway, or engage in thrilling competitions at the open-air laser tag arena. Additionally, the ship features a remarkable aqua park with multi-story waterslides and splash zones, offering plenty of fun-filled moments. For those seeking relaxation and wellness, the Mandara Spa & Salon and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club offer serene retreats.

Entertainment on the Norwegian Encore is truly exceptional. Guests can enjoy world-class Broadway-style productions like “Kinky Boots” and “The Choir of Man,” as well as live music performances and comedy shows.

The ship’s diverse bars and lounges, such as the Skyline Bar with its panoramic ocean views and the interactive Galaxy Pavilion, create a vibrant and social atmosphere for mingling and making new connections. The Norwegian Encore excels in its dining options as well.

With over 20 different dining venues, ranging from Italian cuisine to Japanese delicacies, guests can savor a wide variety of culinary experiences, from casual eateries to specialty restaurants offering international flavors.

The ship’s Freestyle Dining concept allows guests the freedom to dine whenever and wherever they prefer, without fixed dining times or assigned seating. This is something which I think is great you young people.

Lastly, the Norwegian Encore offers an enticing selection of itineraries that cater to the adventurous spirits of young adults. With destinations such as the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Mexican Riviera, these itineraries feature exciting ports of call, enabling guests to partake in exhilarating shore excursions, immerse themselves in local culture, and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities.

See best deals for sailing the Norwegian encore here .

A meal in the signature french restaurant on Norwegian

Best Party Cruises for Young Adults 

When it comes to the best party cruises for young adults, we have three outstanding options that guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Choose any of these three options for an exhilarating party cruise, tailored to the preferences of young adults seeking lively and vibrant onboard experiences.

Carnival Vista by Carnival Cruise Line

Known as the “Fun Ships,” Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and energetic nightlife, making the Carnival Vista an ideal choice for young adults seeking a party-centric cruise.

The ship offers a variety of bars, lounges, and clubs, including the lively RedFrog Rum Bar, the vibrant BlueIguana Tequila Bar, and the energetic Liquid Nightclub. Themed parties and deck parties add to the excitement, ensuring non-stop entertainment for party enthusiasts.

Get the best deals on Carnival Vista with expedia here .

Harmony of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas promises an exhilarating nightlife scene for young adults looking for a party cruise. The ship boasts a dynamic array of bars and lounges, such as the innovative Bionic Bar, the lively Boleros, and the inviting Boot & Bonnet Pub.

The highlight of the ship’s entertainment is Club Twenty, an onboard nightclub featuring a talented DJ, a spacious dance floor, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for late-night revelry. With themed parties and events, the ship keeps the energy high throughout the journey.

Get the best deals on Harmony of the Seas with expedia here .

Scarlet Lady by Virgin Voyages

For a unique and upscale party cruise experience exclusively for adults, consider Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady. This cruise line creates a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance while offering ample opportunities for late-night fun.

The ship features a range of stylish bars and lounges, including the extravagant Manor nightclub, inspired by Richard Branson’s personal recording studio. Virgin Voyages also hosts themed parties and events like the Scarlet Night Party and the Aquatic Club, providing young adults with an unforgettable party experience in an upscale and modern environment.

Get the best rate on Virgin Voyages with cruisedirect here

Best Mediterranean Cruises for Young Adults 

If you’re a young adult seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean cruise, we have three outstanding options that will satisfy your wanderlust. Let’s explore them in detail:

Odyssey of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This innovative ship boasts a wide range of exciting onboard activities, dining options, and entertainment.

You can catch a wave on the surfing simulator, experience the thrill of skydiving in the onboard simulator, or enjoy bumper cars and roller skating at the SeaPlex, an indoor sports complex.

The itineraries take you to iconic Mediterranean destinations such as Rome, Barcelona, and the Greek Islands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the region.

Note: Itineraries change and this ship is not always in the Mediterranean.

Get the best deals on Odyssey of the Seas by Royal Caribbean with expedia here .

Norwegian Epic by Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Epic is renowned for its Freestyle Cruising concept, providing young adults with the freedom to customize their vacation experience. The ship offers an array of dining options, a vibrant nightlife scene, and world-class entertainment like the famous Cirque Dreams and Dinner show.

With stops at popular Mediterranean destinations like Cannes, Naples, and Majorca, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the region’s rich history and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

Get the best deals on Norwegian epic here .

Best Cruises for Single Young Adults 

If you’re a single young adult looking for an exciting and social cruise experience, we have three fantastic options tailored to your needs. Let’s explore them in detail:

Norwegian Getaway by Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Getaway tops our list with its exceptional amenities and entertainment options specifically designed for solo travelers. The ship features Studio staterooms, offering comfortable accommodations exclusively for single guests. These staterooms grant access to the Studio Lounge, a dedicated social space where you can connect with fellow solo travelers and forge new friendships. They also have LGQT meet ups for solo gay, trans, queer etc travelers.

With the ship’s Freestyle Dining concept and diverse entertainment choices, including live performances and themed parties, mingling with other guests in a relaxed and casual atmosphere is effortless.

Get the best rates on the Norwegian getaway here .

Anthem of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas is another excellent choice for single young adults seeking adventure and social connections.

The ship offers an array of activities and entertainment options that cater to solo travelers, such as the thrilling RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, the captivating North Star observation capsule, and the immersive Vistarama shows in the Two70 lounge.

Solo guests can enjoy the spacious Virtual Balcony staterooms, providing real-time ocean views. With multiple dining venues and a vibrant nightlife scene, there are ample opportunities to meet like-minded guests and create lasting memories.

Book your cruise here .

For a more adult-focused cruise experience, consider Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady.

This adults-only ship provides amenities tailored to solo travelers, including Social Insider cabins designed specifically for single guests. The ship offers a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of onboard activities, such as fitness classes, spa treatments, and cooking demonstrations, providing numerous opportunities to socialize and connect with fellow travelers.

The lively bars, lounges, and themed parties create the perfect setting for single young adults to have a fun and unforgettable cruise experience. Choose any of these three options for a remarkable cruise adventure as a single young adult.

Book your virgin cruise here .

So are you up for trying a cruise for your vacation?

Whether you’re seeking adventure, luxury, or relaxation, there’s a cruise line that’s perfect for your young adult getaway. Embark on a memorable journey, create lifelong memories, and find the cruise line that matches your travel preferences.

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

The Best Cruise Lines For Young Adults, According To Travel Reviews

Cruising has been a popular form of travel since the 1980s, offering travelers the chance to explore multiple destinations while enjoying luxurious amenities and entertainment on board. While cruises have generally been associated with an older demographic, many cruise lines today are actively working to attract younger adults looking for a lively and vibrant experience at sea.

According to Fortune , Gen Z and Millenials are prioritizing trips and experiences over purchasing luxury items. These groups primarily choose to visit off-the-beaten-path locations and partake in diverse culinary experiences while taking care of their mental and physical health via self-care.

With more affordable prices, stops in exotic locations, buzzing entertainment, and spa services on board, more and more younger travelers are opting for cruises as a way to meet their travel needs. Thanks to the wide range of cruise offerings from dozens of companies around the world, young adults can find a cruise that best fits their travel goals, budget, and personality. By sourcing cruise reviews and noting unique highlights, we've compiled a list of the best cruise lines for young adults.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is popular with younger crowds, namely for its over-the-top and extensive range of on-board entertainment. Calling its fleet "fun ships" and having Shaquille O'Neal as its "Chief Fun Officer," Carnival specializes in all things entertainment. With live performances by renowned musicians and comedians, high-energy dance parties at nightclubs and bars, Broadway-style performances, interactive game shows, karaoke nights, and even late-night outdoor movies under the stars, there is always something exciting to do on board. Carnival also offers the first-ever breweries at sea on the Vista and Horizon ships, allowing guests to sip world-class beer directly from the source.

For those who love a thrill, try the Twister Waterslide or the SkyRide — a suspended cycling experience — that offers breathtaking views from above deck. Or, race against friends on the Speedway Splash water coaster, or challenge yourself on the ropes course suspended high above the ship's deck. Among one of the most affordable cruise lines on the market, Carnival is making it even easier for young adults to find a sailing that works within their budget.

Virgin Voyages

As the only cruise line that doesn't allow children, Virgin Voyages appeals to young adults wishing to escape from day-to-day life. The child-free cruises also allow young travelers to meet more like-minded people in an adult-only environment. Because Virgin doesn't cater to families or young children, there are many more opportunities for nightlife, dining, and on-board events than other cruise lines.

While many cruise lines across the industry have created elevated dining experiences, Virgin has replaced buffets and set dining times. With more than 20 restaurants and dining options, Virgin ships offer a wide range of culinary choices and diverse experiences, such as the soju drinking game that starts the meal at the Korean BBQ restaurant, Gunbae.

Virgin also offers large fitness centers with free group classes, outdoor yoga, and a functional training center by the pool. There are also countless entertainment offerings, from DJs to Broadway-style shows to nightclubs, that are perfect for young adults to let loose in a kid-free environment.

Norwegian Cruise Line

With the introduction of Studio cabins for single travelers, Norwegian has been appealing to younger generations of travelers who want to cruise alone, as the cabins are a more cost-effective way for solo travelers. On standard cruises, rooms are priced at double occupancy, so when traveling solo, the cost would be roughly doubled. With Norwegian Studio Cabins, prices start at the standard occupancy rate with no single supplement fee, which will add up to significant savings that can be used for shore excursions or additional onboard amenities. 

Norwegian also offers Studio Lounges, a solos-only area on its ships that allows solo travelers to meet people and mingle with other like-minded cruisers. This can help create camaraderie among those traveling alone. The lounge offers complimentary beer and wine, and Norwegian hosts a range of solos-only events, including on-board pub crawls, tasting classes, and happy hours to cater to young, solo travelers. 

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises boasts a fleet of sleek and contemporary ships that cater to the preferences of young adults. From stylish bars and lounges to trendy restaurants and cutting-edge technology, these ships offer an exciting atmosphere where young travelers can relax, party, and mingle with like-minded individuals while traveling the world.

Celebrity also offers a wide range of culinary programs that appeal to foodies and mixologists. From a World Wine Tour and a Food and Wine Pairing Workshop to Mixology 101 and a Jack Daniels tasting flight, there's something for everyone on board. Celebrity sails to a variety of locations, from exotic Caribbean islands to ancient European cities, appealing to any travel style and goal. Active young adults can embark on a range of thrilling shore excursions, such as snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or exploring vibrant local markets, to create memories that last a lifetime.

For thrill-seekers seeking at-sea adventure, Celebrity Cruises also offers exciting onboard activities such as rock climbing walls, basketball courts, pickleball, and jogging tracks overlooking the sea. Plus, there's no shortage of entertainment options on board. From jazz venues and rock shows to Latin-inspired dance parties, there's no shortage of options on a Celebrity Cruise .

Princess Cruise Line

Princess Cruises offers many exciting adventures and amenities designed for young adults. Since Princess is one of the more affordable cruise lines, young adults can make the most out of their travel budget. Princess offers Getaway Cruises that include shorter itineraries in the Caribbean and off the West Coast. The cruises are ideal for young adults who may appreciate a quick vacation without taking too much time off work or school.

Princess Cruises also offers an array of captivating itineraries that cater to the adventurous spirit of young adults. From cruising through the vibrant Caribbean islands or exploring the majestic Alaskan wilderness to embarking on an exotic Mediterranean voyage, there is truly something for everyone. The cruises also offer an extensive range of onboard activities tailored to suit young adults' tastes. With rock climbing walls, water slides, and competitive sports tournaments like basketball and volleyball matches, young adults can find something exciting on each ship.

Royal Caribbean

In recent years, Royal Caribbean has made an effort to appeal to younger travelers, specifically millennial and Gen Z generations with new activities onboard like glow-in-the-dark laser tag, escape room challenges, and surf simulators. They've also begun offering shorter weekend cruises that fit around work schedules and are more budget-friendly. In addition, Royal Caribbean's adult-only beach  in the Bahamas is a major draw of the cruise line. 

In 2023, Royal Caribbean also launched its Hyperlink program aimed at young adults 18 to 25 who are often caught in the middle of kid and adult activities. The Hyperlink program is similar to events hosted in the teen club but is aimed at a slightly older clientele. Programs include meetups for socializing, exclusive nightclub parties, and organized sports solely for those ages 18 to 25. Hyperlink activities can currently be found on Symphony of the Seas, with plans to expand to other ships in the future, including Odyssey of the Seas and the Wonder of the Seas.

Disney Cruise Line

For many, a Disney cruise is just for kids or young families that want a family-friendly vacation. For others, it's a way to escape day-to-day life to feel the nostalgia of childhood and Disney magic without the stress of a theme park vacation. Especially now that Disney has acquired Star Wars and Marvel, more and more young adults are flocking to Disney for their themed ships and special sailing itineraries. These are a little more grown-up compared to the princesses and cartoons typically associated with Disney. 

With events like Marvel Day at Sea and Star Wars Day at Sea, young adults can feel like a kid again by dressing up, interacting with characters from their favorite movies, as well as experiencing themed shows and dining aboard a world-class ship. While these themed cruise itineraries still cater to younger passengers, as it's not a "comic-con" type of experience, the cruises can still appeal to fans of all ages. 

For a little bit of kid-free time, the adults-only areas like the Satellite Falls pools on Dream and Fantasy are perfect for relaxing outdoors with friends or on your own. And just because it's Disney doesn't mean there isn't adult fun to be had. With countless bars and lounges across their fleet of ships, you can sample craft cocktails and high-end dining surrounded by the whimsey of Disney magic, making the higher price of a Disney cruise worth it for fans. 

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere onboard their ships that perfectly suits the preferences of young adults. Live music performances, themed parties under the stars, exciting events, and plenty of bars and lounges are available throughout their fleet of ships. But one particular ship, the MSC Seascape, is inspired by New York City and pays tribute to the bustling metropolitan city, which will delight any young adult who wants a hip and sophisticated cruise experience. 

The ship's design features public areas and venues named after some of New York's most well-known sights, such as the Times Square-inspired shopping mall and a Broadway-style theater, as well as a mini replica of the Statue of Liberty. The dining options on all MSC cruise ships are a mix of high-end international cuisine and casual dining options. When it comes to entertainment options onboard MSC Cruises' ships, guests can enjoy theater shows featuring world-class performers or catch a movie at the onboard cinema.

MSC also has thrilling activities that cater specifically to adventurous young adults seeking excitement during their voyage. Try out their zip-lining experience high above deck, or challenge your friends at the sports court in basketball or soccer matches. You can also mingle with other passengers on the MSC's Fantasia-class ships, which feature adult-only decks. 

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises has long been working to break the stereotype that cruises are only for an older crowd by offering an incredible experience tailored explicitly for young adults. One way they're catering to younger crowds is by offering a wide range of shore excursions at varying price points to allow all travelers to experience the destinations they visit.

P&O also offers two new ships, Arcadia and Aurora, that are available exclusively for adults. The all-adult atmosphere, combined with even more dining and entertainment options, make these cruises great for young adults to enjoy a relaxed vacation while having plenty of exciting shore excursion options, high-end dining, and world-class shows to maintain the adventure.

P&O Cruises offers a fleet of modern ships equipped with state-of-the-art amenities geared specifically to the needs of younger travelers. From spacious cabins designed with contemporary aesthetics to interactive technology ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the ship, these vessels provide the perfect home at sea for younger cruisers.

Viking Cruises

Unlike most other cruise lines, Viking specializes in both ocean cruises and river cruises. River cruises offer travelers a slightly different cruise experience with vastly different ports and shore excursions compared to ocean trips. Young travelers can opt for a river cruise to visit popular European cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Amsterdam, Southeast Asian destinations in Vietnam and Cambodia, or experience Egypt along the Nile, which would not be possible on an ocean cruise ship.

For young adults with an adventurous side, Viking's Expedition cruises may be the ideal choice. Expedition cruises head out to locations like Patagonia, the Antarctic, and the Arctic for once-in-a-lifetime experiences that few other cruise lines offer. While these cruises come at a premium price, you can check off those bucket list items like seeing penguins in Patagonia or visiting the seventh continent while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a luxury cruise ship.

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Best Cruises for Young Adults

Our itineraries are widely recognized as being family-oriented vacations, but they’re also among the best cruises for young adults. With endless entertainment on board and unforgettable excursions on shore, there’s a world of exploration awaiting teens and those in their 20s. Whether setting out on a trip with your best friends or your family, here are the best cruises for young adults.

Most Fun Cruise Ships for Young Adults

The most fun cruise ships know that onboard activities are just as important as onshore excursions. That’s why all of our ships give young adults the freedom to explore on their own with unique onboard entertainment. The Beach House invites teens ages 12-17 to meet their peers in this surf-themed hangout. With movies, video game competitions and dance classes, they can stay entertained while making lifelong friends. In addition to the Beach House, all of our ships include programs exclusively for teens , like our Rock the Boat Party. With a red carpet-lined entrance, hand-crafted mocktails and chart-topping music, this night-long celebration is what makes our ships one of the best party cruises for a younger crowd.

Best Cruises for Young Adults in Their Teens

Even more important than the ship is the destination. The best cruises for young adults involve locations with action-packed adventures like the Eastern Caribbean , Mexico and Hawaii. Snorkel past shipwrecks in the Cayman Islands. Embark on an off-road adventure through Cabo’s Wild Canyon by way of UTV. Or, zipline 1,000 feet above the ground over lush canopies in Kauai. With Princess®, there’s no shortage of excitement for teens and young adults alike.

Best Cruises for Young Adults Traveling with Friends

We know teens won’t always travel with their families, which is why we created our three-to-five day Getaways . As an affordable option for those looking to travel with friends, they’re one of the best cruises for young adults. Our itineraries include voyages on the West Coast and the Caribbean , so guests can visit iconic stateside cities or enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the tropics. For adults 21 and older, experience Wine Country without the extra fees of hotels and transportation. Taste perfectly ripe champagne, or dine al fresco with a picnic in the vineyards. In the Caribbean, embark on a thrilling speed boat ride to Passion Island, where complimentary food and beverages await. On any of our Getaway cruises, young adults can take the vacation that they want without sacrificing money that they need.

When planning your next vacation, remember that the best cruises for young adults are those that offer engaging activities both on land and on board. Experience the best of both worlds when you sail with Princess.

The Blissful Delight

TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE BLOG

8 Best Cruises For Young Adults That Are Amazing

Looking for the best cruises for young adults? These cruise lines are definitely the best options for young adults to enjoy.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

Cruises are a great option for a vacation . With cruises , you get to experience multiple locations on a trip instead of just one. There are lots of cruises that you can take all over the world including, Caribbean Cruises , Mediterranean Cruises , and many more. There are also many great ships to explore with lots of entertainment.

This post will show you the best cruises for young adults , the best cruise lines for adults , Royal Caribbean Cruises , the best Carnival Cruise Ships for young adults , the best party cruises for young adults , the best cruises for families with young adults , and much more.

Some of the best cruise lines for young adults include Carnival Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean Cruise Line , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises , and many more.

This post is all about the best cruises for young adults.

8 Best Cruises For Young Adults

1. carnival cruise lines.

Carnival Cruise Lines are best for young adults because of their great entertainment and low prices . The best budget cruise line for sure. Carnival Cruises are super fun and have a great party atmosphere with lots of drinking and festivities all the time.

Some of the ships have basketball courts, water slides, roller coasters, rope courses, festivals with DJs, parties, unique bars, craft breweries, hot tubs, pools, and so much more.

Carnival Cruise Lines are especially popular during spring break, or any school breaks. This cruise line is filled with young adults and appeals to them because of the cheaper prices and party vibe.

The best Carnival Cruise Ships include Carnival Celebration , Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Horizon , Carnival Vista , Carnival Dream , and many many more.

2. Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines are the most popular cruise line because they have so much to offer. There is something for families, young adults, and everyone. Royal Caribbean has cruises that can last as little as 3 days or as long as 10 days depending on what you want out of your vacation and the places you want to see.

Royal Caribbean ships have so much entertainment during the day and night and so many great attractions like a waterpark, mini put course, zip lining, rock climbing, hot tubs, pool, basketball courts, and so much more.

There is always something going on during the day around the pool or at night they always have parties going on at the nightclubs which is why Royal Caribbean cruises are very popular amongst young adults.

Another great attraction is Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay Private Island located in the Bahamas . The only way to visit this island is through a Royal Caribbean Cruise . This is a very popular destination for young adults as well. It features the tallest water slide in North America, a water park, a gigantic pool, beautiful white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, zip lines, Coco Beach Club, and much more.

Some of the most popular ships that Royal Caribbean offers are Wonder of the Seas , Oasis of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , Navigator of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , Jewel of the Seas , Freedom of the Seas , Brilliance of the Seas , Adventure of the Seas , Explorer of the Seas , Voyager of the Seas , and many many more.

3. Norwegian Cruise Lines

Norwegian Cruise Lines have great ships that cater to younger crowds. They have a great fun party atmosphere and lots of entertainment on board.

Norwegian Cruises are great for people who want to party and have a good time. There are lots of young couples, college students, and solo travelers that go on the NCL cruises and the vibe is just electric.

The Norwegian Cruise Ships include water slides, rock climbing, mini put, bowling, pools, hot tubs, virtual reality game rooms, night clubs, casinos, and a race car track on some of Norwegian’s newer cruise ships, and much more.

Sea days are always jam-packed with activities to keep you and your family and friends entertained all day long, with lots to do for every age group.

Some of the best Norwegian Cruise Ships for young adults include Norwegian Getaway , Norwegian Epic , Norwegian Escape , Norwegian Breakaway , Norwegian Jewel , and many more.

4. MSC Cruise Lines

MSC Cruise Lines are the best luxury cruises on a budget . The cruise lines usually have great offers for group deals and on certain cabins. The MSC Cruise Line has begun to advertise to a younger demographic and has lately been very popular amongst young travelers because it has lots of great attractions and lots of exciting entertainment.

Some of these luxurious ships include Swarovski crystal staircases, luxurious spas and amazing spa treatments, relaxing pool areas, waterslides, bowling, rope courses, hot tubs, pools, bars, and much more.

Some popular MSC Cruise Ships include MSC Seashore which resembles New York City and a lot of the ship is inspired by the amazing city, MSC Meraviglia , MSC Virtuosa , MSC Magnifica , MSC Bellissima , MSC Divinia , and many more.

5. Disney Cruise Lines

Disney Cruise Lines has some of the best cruises for young adults with families and children. If you love Disney then this cruise is an absolute must on your bucket list. So many great things for both kids, young adults, and adults to do.

Disney Cruises are filled with entertainment all the time and have water slides, pools, lots of eating areas, and much more. Since Disney is very popular amongst kids these cruise ships have lots of kids around. Even if you aren’t traveling with kids this cruise line is still amazing with lots of festivities.

There is also adults-only entertainment available like concerts and comedy shows that are great. There is also babysitting and a kids club available as well.

Some of the Disney Cruise Ships include Disney Magic , Disney Wish , Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , and Disney Wonder . All are amazing ships.

6. Virgin Voyages Cruise Lines

Virgin Voyages Cruise Lines are a newer cruise line. They cater to young adults with a hip, cool, and fun vibe. Virgin Voyages are an adult-only luxury cruise line that has lots to offer.

This cruise line is unique and doesn’t have attractions like water slides, mini puts, or rope courses like Royal Caribbean or Carnival Cruise Lines . Instead, they have lots of activities and entertainment on board. Also includes lots of bars and restaurant options that are geared towards a hip adult crowd.

Virgin Voyages ships do however include a gym with classes available, a tattoo parlor, pools, hot tubs, and much more. Definitely a great adult-only cruise ship.

Some cruise ships that Virgin Voyages offers include Virgin Scarlet Lady , Virgin Valiant Lady , Virgin Resilient Lady , and Virgin Brilliant Lady .

7. Celebrity Cruise Lines

Celebrity Cruise Lines is a great cruise line for young adults looking for a more quiet and relaxing vacation. The crowd is fairly elderly so it is definitely not a party ship. Still has lots of entertainment available and lots of time to relax.

These ships offer many great places to eat and drink. The theatre also hosts shows every night which are very entertaining.

Celebrity Cruise Ships that are popular with young adults include Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Equinox , Celebrity Apex , Celebrity Millenium , Celebrity Infinity , and many more.

8. Princess Cruise Lines

Princess Cruise Lines is the least popular cruise line for young adults, but it is growing among the crowd. These cruise ships have a decent nightlife scene with lots to do aboard.

Princess Cruises is great for couples and the best time to go to meet other young adults during the holiday season or school breaks.

Popular Princess Cruise Ships include Sky Princess , Regal Princess , Enchanted Princess , Discovery Princess , Emerald Princess , Crown Princess , Majestic Princess , and many more.

This post was all about the best cruises for young adults.

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The 3 Best Cruises for Young Adults

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If you’ve never been on a cruise, you might be picturing the older demographic playing shuffleboard, eating dinner at 4:00, and talking about their investments. But you’d be wrong to think that.

Don’t overlook cruising if you’re looking for an exciting spring break adventure.

Modern cruise ships are an excellent vacation choice for young adults and college students. Cruising offers plenty of entertainment, thrills, and partying at an affordable price – even on a student’s budget.

Because not all cruises are the same, choosing the right cruise line can make or break your vacation.

So, what are the best cruises for young adults and college students?

From my experience as a young adult sailing on over a dozen cruises, I can tell you that  Virgin Voyages  is the best cruise line for young adults and college students. But if you are cruising on a budget,  Carnival Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line  are great choices.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about cruising as a young adult.

Table of Contents

The Best Cruises for Young Adults and College Students

If you are looking for younger crowds and a party at sea, the  best cruises for young adults are Virgin Voyages, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line .

Cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Holland America are popular but cater to an older demographic. Disney Cruise Line is a better cruise line for kids and families .

The cruise lines on our list draw in younger crowds and offer incredible nightlife and parties at sea. Their cruise ships consist of some of the world’s largest vessels with high-thrill activities young adults love.

1. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is a unique adult-only cruise line purpose-built for young adults and millennials. The cruise line provides a laid-back atmosphere, incredible culinary experiences, and all-night parties.

Virgin Voyages is our pick for the best cruise line for young adults . 

When sailing on Scarlet Lady, I participated in a late-night call at Bimini, thrilling entertainment in the Red Room, and all-night parties in the ship’s nightclub, The Manor.

Virgin Voyages has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other mainstream cruise lines. The atmosphere and demographic are better suited to young adults who’d rather have a party cruise than play shuffleboard.

The cruise line works hard, creating an energetic atmosphere. And there are overtly sexual undertones throughout the cruise.

Virgin’s award-wining cruise ships contain several amenities suited to young adults, including

• a tattoo parlor
• pajama party
• a poker room
• Scarlet Night dance party.

Culinary experiences are a top priority for Virgin Voyages.

Virgin’s cruise ships don’t have a buffet or main dining room. Instead, passengers can choose from Virgin’s more than 20 onboard restaurants and eateries. Each restaurant presents a unique dining experience, with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs.

And their effort pays off.

The food on Scarlet Lady was some of the best I’ve ever eaten. Not just the best food on a cruise ship, but anywhere.

The best part is that every restaurant is included in Virgin Voyages cruise fare .

So there are no hidden fees or upcharges.

Entertainment is another highlight for college students. The shows range from comedy to Cirque du Soleil-Esq acrobatics and everything in between. The nightly entertainment typically runs less than an hour, so you can return to partying without missing a beat.

At night, the Manor transforms into a two-story nightclub , where the party doesn’t stop until well into the morning.

The only downside is that Virgin Voyages cruises are more expensive than other cruise lines.

But the price is worth it when you consider that your Virgin Voyages cruise fare includes the following:

• More than 20 restaurants and eateries
• Onboard activities and entertainment
• Fitness classes
• Complimentary Virgin Voyages Wi-Fi
• Water, coffee, tea, soda, and juice

In all, Virgin Voyages is our top pick for young adult cruisers.

2. Royal Caribbean International

A Royal Caribbean cruise is a choice for active young adults. Royal Caribbean’s fleet boasts some of the largest cruise ships in the world.

Their cruise ships offer plenty of high-thrill activities and entertainment options suited to young adult cruisers.

Royal Caribbean’s larger ships boast rock climbing walls, surfing simulators, zip lines, comedy shows, sky diving simulators, and more.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean offers low-cost cruise vacations perfect for students on a budget.

The cruise line offers plenty of short Bahamas itineraries. The short itineraries attract plenty of young cruisers, the right demographic for creating amazing late-night parties at sea.

Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay private island is another big draw for young travelers.

The private island offers an incredible experience that includes the following:

• A water park
• The tallest water slide in North America
• White sand beaches
• Complimentary lunch
• A massive pool
• A tethered hot air balloon

Young people looking for the party scene will love Royal Caribbean’s bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. Royal’s larger ship classes , the Oasis and Quantum-class ships, even have a bar with bionic bartenders.

3. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most popular cruise ships among younger travelers. The cruise line’s popularity stems from its focus on the “fun factor.”

As the name suggests, Carnival’s cruises truly feel like a festival at sea with pool parties, dance classes, international DJs, fitness classes, and more.

Carnival attracts a young demographic because of its incredibly low cruise fares .

The low cruise fares make Carnival an attractive choice for young adults. 

Plus, the younger demographic means you find some of the best parties on Carnival Cruise Line. The cruise line is known for its lively atmosphere and all-night parties.

Carnival is often known as the “fun cruise line” thanks to its programming of trivia, shows, outdoor activities, and live music.

The cruise line partners with celebrities like Guy Fieri and Shaquille O’Neal to offer unique dining spots.

One of Carnival’s most unique features is the craft brewery featured on some of their cruise ships, complete with their very own craft beers.

The one downside of cruising with Carnival is its popularity with young families. If you choose to spend your summer break on a Carnival cruise, it’s important to know that you will share the ship with many kids.

But if that doesn’t bother you, Carnival is one of the best cruise lines for your spring break vacation.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is another great option for young adults who like to party. NCL is a popular cruise line for young adults because of its laid-back atmosphere and late-night parties.

Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the best cruise lines for traveling  solo .

Norwegian’s fleet of cruise ships offers plenty of solo cabins. The solo staterooms waive the single supplement, making your cruise much more affordable.

The studio cabins are 100-square-foot accommodations and provide access to the Studio Lounge, where you can meet other solo travelers. 

Don’t let the small cabin size scare you. With plenty of activities and entertainment on the ship, you won’t spend much time in your cabin.

NCL cruise ships offer

• go-kart tracks
• virtual reality game rooms
• waterslides
• dance clubs
• rock climbing

There’s no shortage of exciting games and activities for young adults.

In addition to their top-tier casinos, young travelers will love the White Hot Party, ice bar, and vibrant nightlife.

How to Pick the Best Cruise

When is the best time for college students to go on a cruise.

The most critical factor determining the ship’s demographic is when you will set sail. As a rule of thumb, the best time of year for college students to go on a cruise is spring break, summer, or fall break.

As a general rule, you’ll find younger crowds and a better party atmosphere when school is out.

If you want to cruise with a younger crowd, booking a cruise during spring break or early summer is best. You will also find younger groups if you sail during late summer or Christmas break; however, you will share the ship with  families and young children .

If you want to sail with younger crowds but not too young, stick with spring break or early summer sailings. Cruises that sail during these times are full of young adults and have a vibrant nightlife.

Shorter Cruises = Younger Crowds

Another critical factor is the length of your trip. The longer the cruise, the older the crowd.

Younger cruisers tend to take shorter cruise trips of 3-5 days to save money. In addition to being cheaper, booking a shorter cruise has the added benefit of greater flexibility in departure times.

Short cruises are great for college students looking to party and let loose with younger crowds. In recent years, cruise lines have made a big push into shorter cruises, and you can even find some of the new ships sailing with short itineraries. You can find plenty of quick sailing options that visit Mexico and the Bahamas.

Your Destination Matters

Don’t sail to Alaska or Antarctica if you want to party with a younger crowd. Alaskan, New England, and scenic river cruises appeal to older passengers who prefer a quiet and relaxing vacation.

In general, warm climates are where you will find the most vibrant nightlife and party atmosphere. Younger passengers gravitate towards the tropical climate, which offers drinks by the pool and beautiful beaches.

Bottom line: if you want to party with a younger crowd, book a sailing in a warm climate. Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexican cruises tend to have the youngest passengers.

Newer Ships Have More to Do

As a young adult, you’re probably not looking for a quiet getaway to read by the pool and shuffleboard on the top deck.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

But if you’re looking for excitement and thrill, you’ll want to stick with newer cruise ships.

The newest and largest cruise ships offer more activities and amenities. Cruise lines are always trying to one-up each other. Newer cruise ships guarantee you’ll find more exciting activities better suited to younger cruisers.

Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Holland America are popular but cater to an older demographic.

How can I Stay Safe While Cruising?

Regardless of where your cruise takes you, it is always important to keep safe while traveling. These simple tips can help you avoid trouble and stay safe:

Use your safe  – Cabins come with a safe. Use it. Keeping electronic devices, jewelry, money, documents, and passports in the safe is always a good idea to protect yourself from theft.

Don’t drink excessively  – Alcohol is a major factor in safety incidents aboard cruise ships. Be mindful of your limits, and pace yourself. There is plenty of alcohol on board, and it can be easy to get carried away. And never accept any drinks from a stranger.

Keep on top of handwashing  – Use the hand sanitizer provided in the ship’s dining areas. Norovirus is a common issue on cruise ships, and with thousands of passengers sharing a confined space, it is easy for germs to spread.

Book the sponsored excursions  – You’ll save money by booking shore excursions independently, but booking through your cruise line is always safer. The sponsored excursions cruise lines offer are vetted and insured to ensure the safety of you and your fellow passengers. Your safety is worth the price, even if it costs a few extra bucks.

Keep track of time  – Pay close attention to the arrival and departure times when you are in port. They are not suggestions, and your  ship will leave without you . We recommend arriving at your ship 30 minutes before the last call to avoid missing the boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise fares all-inclusive.

Cruise lines include many basic amenities in the base fare, but cruises are not all-inclusive . Your cruise fare typically includes meals in the main dining room and buffet, onboard entertainment, activities, and cabin accommodations.

The cruise fare generally doesn’t include specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, spa treatments, and shore excursions. It is good to see what’s included with your base fare and ensure you budget for the extra costs before booking your cruise.

Can I Drink Onboard the Cruise?

Most cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Princess, require passengers to be 21 to consume alcohol while onboard the ship. Norwegian Cruise Line allows passengers between the ages of 18 to 20 to consume alcohol while in international waters, provided they are traveling with a parent or guardian who signs a consent form at the front desk.

Don’t think you can fool the onboard bartenders. You will make all purchases through your cruise card when onboard the ship. If you attempt to sneak past the bartenders, they’ll flag you for trying to drink while underage. Cruise lines reserve the right to disembark passengers who get caught purchasing drinks for underage guests.

Tip: You can save money if your cruise line allows you to bring alcohol on the cruise ship .

What are the Bars and Nightclubs Like on a Cruise Ship?

You will be happy to know that cruise ships have active nightlife onboard. Whether you prefer a sports bar, dancing by the pool, or a karaoke bar, you will likely find it aboard your ship.

In addition to bars and lounges, most cruise ships have nightclubs full of partygoers dancing and singing well into the night. These elaborate clubs have insane light and sound systems and incredible dance parties hosted by scratch DJs.

Can I Gamble at the Cruise Casino?

Most cruise lines allow passengers over 18 to gamble at their onboard casinos. Remember that some older ships, and all Disney ships, don’t have a casino. But if you are sailing on a new vessel, you won’t need to worry, as  most cruise ships have casinos  full of slot machines, table games, and scheduled poker tournaments.

Tip: Cruise ship casinos have lower odds than your standard Vegas casino. For example, blackjack on a ship pays 6 to 5 compared to the standard 3 to 2 payout.

Can I Smoke Onboard the Ship?

Rules regarding smoking have become increasingly restrictive. All cruise lines prohibit smoking in cabins, and most don’t allow it on balconies. That said,  you can smoke on a cruise ship  in smoking areas on the outdoor decks, and many permit smoking in the casino.

Is there Internet on the Ship?

While at sea, the only internet connection is by satellite. To avoid roaming charges on your cruise , look into your cruise ship’s Wi-Fi package. In the past, cruise ships were notorious for having slow, expensive, and unreliable internet connections.

Today, passengers can find fast internet connections on modern cruise ships. Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Carnival have all made great efforts to speed up their internet connections, but it still won’t be as fast as you are used to, but it will get the job done.

What is the Best Way to Book a Cruise?

There are  many ways to book a cruise , including through the cruise line’s website, online, or through a travel agent. Although it’s easier to book online, you should consider using a travel agent, especially if this is your first cruise.

Booking a cruise is not as straightforward as booking a resort. A travel agent can help you find a cruise that fits your budget, not to mention they can get access to deals and group rates that you can’t find online. Travel agents get paid a commission through the cruise line and usually don’t charge you to book using their service.

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The Best Cruises for College Students and Young Adults

If you’ve never been on a cruise, you might picture a bunch of retirees playing shuffleboard, eating dinner at 4:30, and complaining about the heat.

These days, nothing could be further from the truth.

As cruising becomes more and more popular, the old impressions of cruises being for the “newlywed and the nearly dead” are long gone. Now people of all ages — including college students — enjoy cruises. And why not? They’re affordable, fun, and easy.

Where else can you head to the Caribbean for only a few hundred dollars and visit multiple spots while unpacking only one time?

That said, there are some cruises that are definitely better for some crowds than others. While people of all ages cruise, different cruise lines, trip dates and other factors definitely have an impact on the type of crowd that you’ll sail with.

We know there is nothing worse than getting onto a cruise expecting a party and being the youngest person on the boat. On the flipside, if you’re older and want a relaxing trip, then you don’t want to be sailing with a young party crowd.

The good news is that there are different cruises that cater to different groups. To make sure you get booked on the sort of trip you want to go on, we’ve got some pointers on the best cruises for younger passengers such as young professionals and college students.

If you’re looking for the cruises with the youngest (under 30) crowd you can find, then be sure you take these items into account…

Cruise Dates (Spring Break/Summer = Younger)

By far the most important factor in who you will cruise with is when you are setting sail. The rule of thumb is that if you cruise when schools are out, your fellow passengers will be younger. If you’re looking for a younger crowd, it’s best to look at cruises in March (Spring Break) and early summer (summer break + graduation trips).

If you want to sail with younger passengers, avoid times when school is in session — especially right after school started and no one wants to take time off yet. So cruises during, say, September or January will often have older crowds.

Trip Length (Shorter = Younger)

The rule of thumb is the longer the trip, the older the crowd. Younger cruise passengers tend to take short cruises — 3-5 days. These cruises have more options for departure and are also cheaper, making them perfect for cash-strapped college students or younger adults. 

Older passengers with more time for sailing like the week-long cruises, which are also typically more expensive.

The good news is that cruise lines have made a big push into shorter cruises in recent years. Short trips to the Bahamas or Mexico are widely available from multiple ports, often at prices that come to less than $100 per day.

Cruise Lines (Cheaper = Younger)

Want to cruise with a younger crowd? Stick to the less expensive cruise lines. Budgets are a big driver for many younger cruise passengers. That’s why the more affordable lines — namely, Carnival — are more likely to have younger crowds like students and young singles. (Don’t think, however, that everyone or even the majority will be young.)

If you’re not sure if a cruise line is likely to have a younger crowd, simply go to their website. How do they market themselves? Do they show young people having fun, bright colors, and lots of beach shots? Then they are trying to appeal to younger crowds. The cruise lines catering to older crowds tend to have a more formal and luxurious feel to their marketing materials, attracting more wealthy and older passengers.

Carnival is the best for younger crowds. Royal Caribbean is an “in-between” cruise line that draws some college students. Cruise lines like Cunard, Celebrity, and Princess are for older cruisers. And of course, Disney cruises are for families.

But if there is a single line that’s made especially for those under 30, it would be Virgin Voyages. The cruise line is adults-only and markets heavily to the Millennial and Generation Z. While the price is a bit more than some lines, the crowd is much more defined than what you see on other cruises.

Destinations (Warmer = Younger)

Don’t sail to Alaska or New England if you want to party with a younger crowd.

In general, the farther south a ship’s route takes you, the more of a party atmosphere it will have. Younger passengers don’t want to put on parkas and drink hot chocolate to go look at whales and mountains. They want to put on bikinis or swim trunks, drink rum runners and hit the beach.

Alaskan or New England cruises will appeal to an older crowd. That doesn’t mean every Caribbean trip will have a ship full of college students, but your chances are much, much higher than if you were sailing north.

One spot that sees younger crowds are trips to the west coast and Mexico. According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) — an industry trade group — the average age of trips to this area have the youngest crowds  among any destination for North American cruisers. 

Newer and Larger Ships (More to Do)

Some people go on cruises just to relax. There is nothing they want more than to sit on a balcony, eat good food, and get some sunshine.

Younger passengers will often want a little more to do on the ship. In that case, it’s a good idea to sail on newer and larger ships. 

Cruise lines do everything they can to put as much as possible on ships, but size is always a factor. Since newer ships tend to be larger, they can also pack on more to do. As well, new ships have the latest and greatest that a cruise line can offer, such as go-kart tracks on Norwegian Cruise Line and a roller coaster on Carnival. 

No cruise will be boring, but having more to do is always nice for younger passengers.

Special Events & Chartered Cruises

You may not realize it, but some companies make a business out of chartering an entire cruise ship, putting on a special event and then selling tickets to sail.

For example, there are poker cruises, clothing optional cruises, and even a New Kids on the Block cruise. Now, not every theme will resonate with everyone. However, if you find a special chartered cruise with a theme you like, then it’s likely you’re going to be sailing with like-minded cruisers.

In addition, many cruise lines offer sailings with special cruises for one specific trip. Carnival, for instance, has Carnival Live, which features sailings with people like Jim Gaffigan, Tim McGraw and others.

These trips are going to attract different crowds, depending on who the guest is. Look for sailings that have someone that is likely to attract a younger crowd.

The Best Crowds for Young Adults (Bring Friends!)

All this said, the best way to ensure that you are on a cruise with a younger crowd? Bring your own.

Bachelorette parties are popular on shorter cruises. Other times it’s just friends getting together to let loose for a few days. No matter, if you’re wanting to make sure there are other people on the ship that you’ll want to hang out with, then it’s the safest best to just bring your own friends.

Looking for an inexpensive cruise to somewhere warm (perfect for college students and young adults), check out our list of Spring Break cruise deals .

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The Best Cruise Vacation For Teens

How to enjoy the best cruise for teens.

By Mary Luz Mejia | Published on January 29, 2024

For families looking for an easy, carefree vacation, there's nothing like a cruise. And for parents looking for the best cruises for teens — packed with enough activities and entertainment to keep them happy while catering to family members of all ages — Royal Caribbean cruises are tough to beat.

That's especially true of Icon of the Seas ℠. With the largest waterpark at sea and other amusement park-style features, the ship is destined to become one of the best vacations for teens. Sailing seven-night eastern Caribbean and seven-night western Caribbean cruises, the itineraries each feature a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay®, which also has its own exciting waterpark and other adrenaline-pumping experiences teens are sure to embrace. Read on for everything you need to know about Icon of the Seas , designed to offer the best cruises for teens.

Wow-Worthy Thrills

If you have thrill-seeking adolescents in your family, you know that jaw-dropping attractions make fun vacations for teens. The Category 6 Waterpark onboard the ship is home to a whopping six record-breaking slides, including the Frightening Bolt, a vertical drop waterslide that's the tallest at sea. Teens can also test their courage on the Pressure Drop℠, the first open free-fall slide at sea, for some gravity-defying fun.

Have a teen who is competitive by nature? They'll head directly to Storm Chasers℠, a racing duo slide designed with mats. Even better, wrangle the whole fam together to tackle Hurricane Hunter℠ or Storm Surge℠ together. These two new raft slides are designed to thrill the whole gang.

Teens can further indulge their inner daredevil with the Crown's Edge℠ . This combination of skywalk, ropes course and thrill ride is a test of bravery — and a total rush. Staff strap riders in before they step onto the ship's walkway, where brave souls can look down at the crashing waves below while they walk along. At any time, the floor beneath might collapse and leave adventure-seekers literally hanging over the ocean!

Located near the waterpark, the ultimate rock-climbing expedition — aptly named Adrenaline Peak — awaits anyone who likes to test their limits. The impressive climbing wall offers a craggy course with breathtaking views from the top of the ship. As a bonus, climbers can choose their difficulty level. Then it's all about scaling to the peak at top speeds. With new racing lines, teens can challenge siblings, new friends...or you.

Fun For The Whole Family

Icon of the Seas  is home to Surfside℠ , a neighborhood designed with all-day entertainment for families to ensure teenage-friendly vacations with a pool. While little ones head to the carousel, teens can make a beeline to the Arcade at Surfside for some retro-style games, a round of air hockey or some fun with the classic claw machine. And, since the best vacations for teens feature a space they can call their own, there's Social 020. This teen-only club is designed for chilling out with new friends and isn't too far from Surfside.

Teens can also round up their crew and head over to their choice of fabulous ocean-view pools . The Royal Bay℠ pool offers plenty of room for a dip as the largest pool at sea. Teens will also love the Hideaway Pool, the first suspended infinity pool at sea. With a resident DJ and waterside day beds, this pool offers the ultimate beach party vibe.

Cruises for teens would be incomplete without the all-important food factor. When they've had their fill of swimming, rock climbing and water slides and are ready to refuel, it's time to head over to Pier 7℠ . During breakfast, lunch and dinner, this restaurant offers a laidback ambiance serving family faves. Take a bite out of comforting classics or twists on tried-and-true favorites. Love brunch? You can enjoy it here all day, every day. Turn any day of the week into your family's own Taco Tuesday with surf 'n turf tacos or mango shrimp tostadas. There's also the Surfside Eatery℠, which serves a bountiful buffet of tasty choices designed to suit kids, teens and parents alike.

On tap at Surfside Bites℠ and Basecamp℠ are the sweet and savory snacks and grab-and-go lunches that appeal to kids — and adults — of all ages. Or you can pick up something refreshing at The Lemon Post℠. While this is an all-ages bar, there are two distinct menus — an adults-only menu featuring creative cocktails for the 21-and-over crowd, and one for teens and kids that offers groovy, color-changing drinks in funky souvenir cups.

If your growing kids have a serious sweet tooth, head to Desserted℠ on Thrill Island for decadent milkshakes. Towers of toppings, delightful drizzles and frosty shake mashups make for Insta-worthy photos. Boozy options are also available there for parents.

Cool Cruises For Teens Include Perfect Day At Cococay

Fun vacations for teens typically include a new adventure, and an epic day at Royal Caribbean's private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay , hits the mark. This tropical oasis in The Bahamas offers an incredible vacation day for families with teens. Perfect Day at CocoCay has something for every teen's mood, from chill vibes on white sandy beaches beside calm turquoise water to a day racing down the waterslides at Thrill Waterpark® — including the tallest waterslide in North America.

Extroverted kids can take part in a variety of friendly sports competitions, from volleyball to soccer. Or gather the family for a quiet moment 450 feet above the ground in the Up, Up and Away helium balloon ride. Cool down with an icy drink at the swim-up bar and people-watch at the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas. Or splurge for the day and soak up the rays in your own private overwater cabana. Whatever you do, don't forget to reapply sunblock during your day at the beach.

Family-Friendly Spectaculars

The best cruise for teens features awe-inspiring moments that they likely wouldn't come by on land — think world-class shows and spectacles in state-of-the-art venues. Consider the AquaDome℠ , which showcases advanced robotics and a shapeshifting waterfall. Here, AquaTheater performers display feats of agility and strength under a towering cascade of water. Or watch Olympic-style performances on ice in Absolute Zero℠ , the largest ice-skating arena in the fleet. During the shows, high-resolution digital images projected from the ceiling to the rink transform the surroundings and transport viewers into the story. Skaters, take note: While the rink is home to shows at night, during the daytime you can bundle up, strap on a set of blades and make figure eights to your heart's content.

Sweet Dreams Are Made At Sea

When you're making the most of family time, even downtime is important on a vacation.  Icon of the Seas  offers rooms designed specifically for families, featuring options to suit different fams' unique travel styles. The Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony staterooms are a great choice for teens who want their own room with a TV and personal space to unwind. With the push of a button, these staterooms allow you to transform your living space into an extended oceanscape, fresh sea breeze included! Or you can choose to upgrade to a Panoramic Suite, where floor-to-ceiling glass windows deliver the wow factor with a clear line of sight to the dazzling AquaDome. Looking for something even more extra? Consider a Sunset Corner Suite with a wraparound balcony for seemingly endless ocean views.

Other family accommodations to consider include a Surfside Family Suite, designed with a spacious split-bathroom layout plus extra room for your teen. And there's the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse, a decadent three-story suite that has a wraparound terrace with a hot tub, a cinema room and direct access to all the memory-making fun that Surfside offers right from your private patio. Other townhouse perks include Royal Suite Class Star status, which provides access to exclusive experiences like your family's personal Royal Genie, priority access everywhere onboard and loads more.

Written By MARY LUZ MEJIA

Colombian-born, Canadian raised Mary Luz Mejia is a twice NATJA nominated freelance food/travel journalist, Gemini-nominated former food TV producer and Level II Certified Chocolate Taster. Her work has been published in Saveur Magazine, the Toronto Star, The Globe & Mail, The Latin Kitchen, Rodale's Organic Gardening and Toronto Life to name a few. Former Saveur Editor-In-Chief James Oseland calls her "One of Toronto's most passionate food journalists" and her personal goal is to master iconic Latin American dishes, one plate at a time. And por supuesto, se habla Español!

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The 6 Best Cruises for Teens [2024]

Updated : June 14, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, SMT

Table of contents.

• Royal Caribbean
• Disney Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruises for Teens FAQ

Book your next cruise with aaa.

Boarding a cruise ship is an experience unlike any other. In mere moments, you go from standing in a check-in line to exploring a small city floating on the sea. Spending time sailing the open ocean and exploring new ports adds to the incredibly memorable experience of cruising.

With something for everyone, cruises are one of the perfect vacations for families with teens . Cruise ships today are designed with premium luxuries, countless activities and amenities that will have your teenager begging to book your next trip before you pull back into your home port.

Let’s look at the best cruises for teens and what makes these picks perfect for families with young adults.

1. Royal Caribbean

Cruise At-a-Glance:

• Best for: Onboard activities
• Unique features for teens: Onboard arcade, mini-golf course, rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, zip lines, indoor sky diving, surf simulators and laser tag course 

When it comes to cruise lines that know how to deliver fun and action, no list would be complete without Royal Caribbean. With the largest cruise ships in the world, Royal Caribbean has designed floating cities jam-packed with ocean-side adventure. Their oasis-class ships are jaw-dropping, with more room to explore than you can possibly envision at sea. All Royal Caribbean cruises feature teen-specific clubs, which are the perfect place for young adults to mingle and make new friends.

Independence of the Seas

Dual racer waterslides will provide your teen and their buddy with a thrilling plunge through three stories of twists and turns. Virtual reality games meet soaring heights on the Sky Pad—a trampoline and VR headset combination unlike any other. Grab the whole family and join your teen in tackling an escape room, and of course, your teen will love chowing down at the dozens of restaurants on board, including casual picks like Fish and Ships poolside.

2. Carnival

• Best for: Teen clubs
• Unique features for teens: Teen clubs, waterslides, mini golf, arcade and a sports square

With company slogans like “Choose Fun,” “The Fun Ships,” and “Fun for All. All for Fun,” it is easy to see why Carnival is a top pick for teens. Carnival ships are designed with a huge focus placed on those under 18. One of the top benefits of Carnival cruises is the teen-focused clubs Circle C and Club O2. Both clubs feature fun daytime activities, and older teens can even participate in an onboard prom. That’s not to mention all the incredible youth-focused activities Carnival delivers on ships both large and small.

Carnival Mardis Gras

On one of Carnival’s newest ships, teens will love the vast number of activities to choose from, including multiple waterslides, a sports square, mini golf and an arcade. Oh, and did we mention Carnival Mardis Gras has the first-ever roller coaster at sea? Now that’s a true scream! After a long day adventuring on the ship, teens will have ample food options, including Street Eats, which features new foods from around the globe daily.

3. Disney Cruise Line

• Best for: Families with kids in various age groups
• Unique features for teens: Teen lounge areas, pool areas, video game stations, dance club, water coaster, interactive games, private outdoor deck and karaoke

Debating between taking your family to Disneyland or Disneyworld for Spring Break? Why not take them on a Disney Cruise? The Disney Cruise Line is for all ages, but teenagers will especially enjoy what it has to offer. Most Disney cruise ships have water activities to cool off with, such as pools and water slides. The newer ships cater to being one of the best cruises for teens, so you’ll find clubs for both teens and tweens to lounge and interact with other kids their age. 

If your kids aren’t fans of Disney or its offshoots, like Marvel or Star Wars, they may enjoy one of the other amazing cruise lines on this list. However, those who still have the heart of a child will thoroughly love cruising with Disney. 

Disney Wish 

Disney Wish is the newest ship to the Disney Cruise Line and offers a variety of upgraded accommodations and experiences. Inspired by classic Disney tales, Disney Wish stands out among the other four amazing ships on the cruise line. Teens can check out Disney’s first attraction at sea, kids clubs inspired by Star Wars and Marvel, game-style competitions in the “Hero Zone” and even an Imagineering Lab. 

4. Princess Cruises

• Best for: Recreational tournaments
• Unique features for teens: Sports area, skeeball, arcade games, board games, table tennis, air hockey and youth programs

Princess Cruises is a luxury cruise line that primarily caters to an older crowd; however, teenagers can still find plenty of enjoyment while traveling. Teens can enjoy recreational tournaments, play arcade games and start a disco party on the dance floor. While most of the Princess cruise ships don’t have water slides or water-park features, you can still expect traditional swimming pools and hot tubs to take a dip in. 

Sun Princess 

Sun Princess is the newest ship of the Princess Cruise lines and is ideal for teenagers who like to stay active and play moon under the sun. The ship is home to the first Princess family activity zone called Park19. In Park19, you’ll find the first Rollglider, an aerial roller coaster zip line. You can work your way through a climbing structure obstacle course, hang out in an open-air observation deck, brave through a bridge and net course and cool off in the “Splash Zone” water area.

5. Holland America Line

• Best for: Entertainment options 
• Unique features for teens: Kids club, game room, karaoke, air hockey, basketball, pingpong and teen disco events 

The Holland America Line is renowned for its exceptional cruise experience, and it also caters to different age groups, including young adults. The cruise line offers programs for multiple age ranges in its Kids Club, including those ages 13-17. The Kids Club hosts specific events for its teenage passengers, including video game tournaments and poker nights. The Holland America ships all have amazing dining options, where teens can enjoy sipping on mocktails during a special dinner or watching a live show. Plus, Holland America offers many excursions ideal for adventurous teenagers, such as helicopter rides and ziplining tours. 

The Koningsdam is a beautiful mid-sized cruise ship known for its music entertainment options, such as the Rolling Stones Rock Room and B.B. King’s Blues Club. The Koningsdam does include the Kids Club, so your teenagers will always have a space onboard to retreat to when they want some time alone or to meet other teens. 

6. Celebrity Cruises

• Best for: Family accommodations
• Unique features for teens: Teen club, spa services, sports tournaments, pool areas, video games, culinary classes and Camp at Sea program. 

Celebrity Cruises shines for its luxury family accommodations and onboard activities. With suites that provide room for the whole family, you can expect your teenagers to feel like they have enough space. They can also make their way to Celebrity’s Teen Club, a space just for young adults to enjoy. There, they can partake in video game tournaments or silent disco parties. Outside the club, teens can enjoy playing on a miniature golf course or camp under the stars with Celebrity’s Camp at Sea. 

Celebrity Edge

The Celebrity Edge is part of Celebrity’s Edge-series ships, which also include Beyond, Apex and the upcoming Ascent. Celebrity Edge is one of the first resort cruise ships to receive a Recommended Rating from Forbes Travel Guide. It's no surprise, with its spa and retreat, 29 lounges, bars and restaurants and award-winning productions.

Below are frequently asked questions about traveling on cruises with teenagers.

What Makes a Ship Teen-Friendly?

Before booking a cruise, if you plan to bring along a teenager, it is important to compare your options by looking for a ship that will cater to your teen.

What makes a ship teen-friendly? For our top picks, we made sure that the cruises offered the following youth-focused features:

• Groups specifically for teens: This is the perfect way to let your teen socialize while on the open seas. Meeting new friends is one of the top benefits of picking a cruise with teen-specific programming.
• Plenty of onboard activities: Most cruises will spend at least a few days at sea. For this reason, we went with cruises that feature dozens of onboard entertainment options. From waterslides to arcades, these cruises won’t leave your teen complaining about being bored.

When you arrive at destinations, your teen can choose from various excursions and activities. Engage in communication with them to learn what they would enjoy at every port and reach a compromise on the best activities to book. 

Are Cruises Safe for Teens?

The beauty of traveling on a cruise is that your teenagers can roam the boat freely, but they remain restricted to the ship. Teenagers have the freedom to explore around the cruise, whether it’s checking out the activities in the teen club or joining a sports tournament. Cruises are also an opportunity for them to meet new people their age and grow their independence. 

However, parents will be held responsible for their teen’s well-being while on board. Cruise staff isn’t responsible for your teenagers other than handling safety situations. Before departing on your cruise, check out your cruise’s safety protocols regarding families via the cruise line’s website. We recommend also having a conversation with your family about safety and rules to follow during the cruise. 

What Does a Teenager Need for a Cruise? 

What your teens should pack will depend on the type of cruise and the destinations. However, there are a few general items teenagers can pack to be set for the cruise:

• 2-3 footwear options, such as sandals and good walking shoes
• 2-3 swimwear options
• Undergarments and pajamas
• Day wear shirts, shorts and pants
• 2-3 nightwear options
• A pair of sunglasses
• Books to read
• Emergency contact information or tag on their bags
• A light jacket or sweatshirt 

Don't forget to pack all the necessary travel documents, such as passports. Keep them in your carry-on for easy access when checking in onto the cruise ship.

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The 10 best cruises for teens in 2024.

The best cruises for teens provide the right mix of autonomy and time with family.

The Best Cruises for Teens

Amy Smith | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Teen spaces on cruise ships foster friendships through games, music, events and more.

Cruises make the perfect family vacation, especially when traveling with teens. Teens can mix and mingle with others their age in teens-only clubs, play games, listen to music, or grab a pizza and watch a movie under the stars. If your tweens and teens need more action-packed fun to keep them entertained, some cruise ships act like floating amusement parks with zip lines, racetracks, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, laser tag, waterslides and more.

The following lines offer the best cruises for teens and tweens, along with their parents.

Find your perfect cruise

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers plenty of family fun and activities for teens on its ships, including sports tournaments, waterslides and a family disco. On select ships, you'll also find the full-size MSC Formula Racer simulator, an interactive XD cinema, a virtual reality experience, zip lines and an arcade room. The Young Club programming by MSC Cruises offers daily activities for 12- to 14-year-old tweens, while teens 15 to 17 can participate in sports and dance competitions as well as video game tournaments at the Teen Club. Older kids can also participate in fun themed events, karaoke, piloting practice at the Drone Academy and flash mobs – and there's a teens-only disco.

On MSC Seascape , teens can stay busy in three new concept spaces. "Future" features a state-of-the-art technology area with the latest-generation consoles, VR and video screens for hours of entertainment. "Chill Out" is just as it sounds – a place to hang out, chat, and play foosball and pingpong. Meanwhile, "Music" is a dance club where kids can choose their own tunes and dance the night away with cool lighting and sound effects. If all that isn't enough, Robotron, the first of its kind at sea, is an amusement park-like ride that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with personalized music and lighting.

MSC World Europa boasts the largest and most engaging kids area in the fleet with an impressive 8,245 square feet of action-packed space. The new Teens Lab features an immersive area for teenagers with more than 20 of the latest consoles, seven VR stations and dozens of video games. Drone Academy 2.0 is a high-energy relay race for drones. There's even more onboard fun at Z Active, a sports program that offers basketball, football and zorb ball alongside two firsts for the line – pickleball and hoverboards. Teens can also take a spin on the bumper cars at the MSC Sportplex.

MSC Euribia – the line's newest ship, which set sail on its inaugural cruise in June 2023 – has a total of 7,500-plus square feet of space dedicated to kids ages 0 to 17. The new Teens Club Extra Space offers three different areas: the Young Club (ages 12 to 14), the Teens Club (15 to 17) and the Teens Lab (12 to 17). Some of the activities include those found on other MSC ships, such as Z Active, Drone Academy 2.0 and the MSC Dance Crew competition. Teens will also have access to new video games; pingpong; World Quest, an interactive game show based on trivia and geography; and Caravaggio, an immersive spy game show about an art heist.

Compare  MSC Cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a teens-only venue, Entourage, which caters to young adults 13 to 17 years old. This supervised space – available on 16 of the line's 19 ships – keeps teens busy in an adults-free lounge that's filled with video games, movies, music, arts and sports. Teen counselors on Norwegian Cruise Line plan activities and challenges to keep kids entertained throughout the cruise. A list of detailed activities is available on embarkation day so teens can plan out their schedule for the cruise.

Norwegian Prima , the first vessel in the Prima class, features many first-at-sea innovations perfect for entertaining families and energetic teens, including the three-level Prima Speedway. With cars reaching up to 30 miles per hour, this quarter-mile-long racetrack is one of the highest-rated attractions on Prima. Adventurous teens will also want to check out The Drop and The Rush. Billed as the fastest slides at sea, these chutes offer thrill-seekers a heart-pumping 10-story freefall plunge.

If that's not enough action, teens can also play The Bull's Eye, a classic game of darts that uses a video tracking system, or check out Tee Time for a pumped-up version of mini-golf set against a Las Vegas backdrop. In the Galaxy Pavilion, an indoor gaming complex, you'll find more than a dozen attractions, including immersive simulator experiences, escape rooms and the Topgolf Swing Suite – all of which are unique to Norwegian Prima. When it's time to cool off, the Tidal Wave waterslide is another first for the brand, letting guests ride inner tubes to catch the surf.

Norwegian Viva, the second vessel in the Prima class, is set to launch in August 2023. As the newest ship in NCL's fleet, Viva will also feature these exciting high-tech attractions, including Viva Speedway. If you and your teens are fans of the movie "Beetlejuice," you're in for a treat: The Broadway musical adaptation will debut on the new ship.

The line's Breakaway Plus class – Norwegian Escape , Joy , Bliss and Encore – is also popular with families as these ships offer plenty of activities and attractions suited for active teens, such as go-kart tracks, outdoor laser tag and VR games in the Galaxy Pavilion.

Find  Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GoToSea .

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line features two cool spaces dedicated to teens and tweens, who can hang out on comfy couches, watch shows or movies, and play video games. These hangouts, called Edge (for ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17), are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream , the space at Vibe also features a private outdoor deck with chaise lounges, wading pools, foosball and more. While indoors, teenagers can mingle with others their age, or just kick back and relax in individual nooks. There's a dance club area for karaoke contests, talent shows and dance competitions. The trendy indoor-outdoor space – at almost 9,000 square feet – is accessible with a teens-only card or DisneyBand+. On the new Disney Wish ship, Vibe has a French twist inspired by a Paris artist's loft with neon signs and funk pop art.

For tweens sailing on Disney Fantasy or Dream, Edge is a bright, loft-style gathering spot – located in the funnel – that has individual computer stations for gaming and a massive video wall for screening television, movies and games. There's also a lit-up dance floor for dance parties. Two nifty features of the space – and its location – are views of the pool decks below as well as three portholes that allow for glimpses of the riders on the water coaster, AquaDuck, as they zoom by.

On the first night of the cruise, kids receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate a personalized entertainment itinerary. Some fun options throughout the week may include "Gotcha," a game of elimination where one teen will become the ultimate victor. For a special treat – and a bit of pampering – guests ages 13 to 17 won't want to miss an afternoon at Chill Spa, located inside Senses Spa & Salon.

Book a  Disney cruise on GoToSea .

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

The newly updated space for teens 13 to 17 years old on Royal Caribbean International vessels is hidden behind a secret speakeasy entrance. The dedicated venue, which has a gaming lounge and music, is a cozy place to hang out to meet other teens on the ship. There's also an outdoor patio where you can relax in the sun or chill out under the stars. Teens will find planned activities throughout the day at the lounge, including sports tournaments, a nightly teen disco and themed parties.

Social 100 is an exclusive new space for ages 13 to 17 on Wonder of the Seas . The outdoor space sits next to the waterslides and boasts a hot tub, lawn games, cozy seating, a selfie area, and a bar serving zero-proof cocktails and shakes. The indoor part of Social 100 features a gaming area, foosball tables, a vending machine and more comfortable spaces for teens to mingle.

Teens have plenty of activities they can do with their families on Royal Caribbean's ships, especially on the new Icon of the Seas, the first vessel in the Icon class. Slated for its inaugural sailing in January 2024, Wonder of the Seas will be the  world's largest cruise ship .  Cruisers of all ages will have endless opportunities for fun with more venues, activities and attractions than you've ever seen on a cruise ship.

Teens and their parents will appreciate Chill Island, a three-level pool deck with the first swim-up bar at sea. The new water park, Thrill Island, boasts six waterslides, including exciting firsts at sea, such as Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide. If that's not enough to get the adrenaline pumping, teens can check out Crown's Edge – a combination thrill ride, skywalk and ropes course – or other Royal Caribbean favorites like Adrenaline Peak, Sports Court, the FlowRider surf simulator or the reimagined mini-golf course.

If you're hanging out in the new Surfside neighborhood on Icon, a dedicated space for young families, teens will have easy access to the supervised teens-only club, Social 020, from this open-air space.

When you head ashore to Perfect Day in CocoCay, one of the best  cruise line private islands , teen cruisers will find plenty of fun land-based activities like Thrill Waterpark and 1,600-foot-long zip lines. Be sure not to miss another thrilling experience: Up, Up and Away. The helium balloon ride soars 450 feet above the ground to the highest vantage point in the Bahamas , offering incredible panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

Explore  Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea . 

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

The Kids Club on Holland America Line offers a fun supervised program for 13- to 17-year-old guests in an adult-free zone known as The Loft. The name is in the process of changing to High Score!, and you'll already find the updated concept on Oosterdam and Eurodam . The line's other ships will change over to the new venue throughout 2024. High Score! is a family game room that serves as a secret getaway for teens by day. In the evenings, entire families can come to play skeeball, board games and join in other activities.

The teens-only space (during the day) on Holland America Line resembles a New York artists loft where kids can listen to music, watch movies, play games and meet and hang out with same-age cruisers. Programs and activities at the current space, The Loft, include themed events, karaoke, a teen disco and nighttime activities such as Poker Night and video game tournaments. Youths can also participate in pingpong, basketball and other teens-only sporting events. If they still need more entertainment to keep them busy, the Kids Club offers origami lessons and watercolor painting as well as competitions in "Mario Kart," air hockey, foosball, pinball and more.

The Kids Club is complimentary for guests. The space is open daily, and you'll also find teen events around the ship. When it comes to dining, there are many teen-friendly dining options – where teens can even enjoy mocktails like nonalcoholic mojitos – at venues throughout the ship.

If you're cruising to Alaska with Holland America or other adventure-filled destinations, look for excursions that will appeal to younger family members like zip lining tours, trail hikes, float trips, helicopter tours and wilderness safaris. Alaska is a teen favorite, especially in Skagway (one of Alaska's top destinations ), where travelers can get a thrill out of dog mushing with a team of Alaskan huskies, taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or going on a rock climbing excursion.

Find  Holland America Line cruises on GoToSea .

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Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The modern Beach House lounge is the go-to place for passengers ages 13 to 17 to socialize and meet others their age when sailing on a Princess Cruises ship. Fun activities for teens include late-night movies and tournaments where they can challenge their peers in video games or at air hockey, foosball and table tennis. For more energetic activities, join in the fun during indoor dodgeball and basketball games. Or, learn new dance moves from some of the dancers in the crew, then hit the dance floor for one of the competitions. At the "Rock the Boat Party," teenagers can dress up and party the night away with mocktails and new friends on the ship.

"Movies Under the Stars" is one of Princess' signature events. Guests can watch movies, sporting events and concerts while bundled up with cozy blankets on the pool deck outdoors. Teens will enjoy the complimentary snacks – not to mention the special movie nights designed with them in mind, such as "Scary Movie Night." You might even find teen makeovers and glitter tattoos some evenings on the ship.

The line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess , Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess – offer the most activities for teens, but all of the ships in the fleet host youth programs in partnership with Discovery, along with plenty of other family-friendly activities. These offerings include Discovery Family and Animal Planet shore excursions and onboard entertainment like "The Voice of the Ocean," a musical competition.

Parents will be able to keep track of their busy teens anywhere on the ship with the state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass system. The quarter-size wearable medallion and accompanying app allow guests to personalize their itinerary and locate family members and friends on board.

When Sun Princess launches in February 2024, as the first vessel in the line's Sphere class, it will feature Park19. This top-deck family activity zone boasts many outdoor adventures, including Sea Breeze – the first Rollglider at sea. The ADA-accessible seated ride offers a hang-gliding experience with panoramic views of the ocean and ports of call. Families and teens can also check out the climbing obstacle course, cargo nets and lookout points. The ship also has a recreational court – which offers pingpong, shuffleboard, fitness classes and more – and a splash zone where you can cool off after all the outdoor activities.

Inside Sun Princess, tweens and teens will find two centers just for them: Neon Grove and The Underground. Both spaces offer cozy and colorful areas for young adults to hang out, socialize, and play video games on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. They'll also find foosball, skeeball and air hockey on top of planned activities like movie nights, dance parties and scavenger hunts.

Explore  Princess Cruises on GoToSea .

Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney offers river and expedition cruises for the whole family; the itineraries span many choices and experiences for tweens and teens with a focus on culture, history, gastronomy and adventure. The river cruises are operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, while the expedition cruises are a collaboration with luxury French cruise line Ponant.

If you're sailing on the Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary, for example, guests can choose between various exciting excursions. While you're docked in Strasbourg, France , for the day, teen-friendly options include a tour of the Black Forest, complete with a toboggan run and a visit to a woodworking museum. Another choice here is to visit Germany's Europa-Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park located between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. In Melk, Austria, on the Danube itinerary, families can go for a bike ride along the Danube River, hike to the castle in Dürnstein or visit a family-run apricot farm.

Another great feature of these cruises is that teens can opt to have dinner and evening get-togethers with same-age cruisers, so they don't have to dine with their parents or younger siblings every night. Adventure Guides also curate special activities for teens like game shows and pool parties.

In destinations like Antarctica, the Adriatic and the Galápagos Islands , expert naturalists lead tours during these bucket list trips. You might even find a bit of Disney storytelling woven into the presentations by the Adventure Guides.

Keep in mind if you have younger kids as well as teens that children need to be 5 or older to sail on the river cruises. For the Galápagos Islands expedition cruises, the minimum age for Junior Adventurers is 7, and for expeditions to the polar regions, kids need to be 10 years of age or older.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration, which launched in November 2022, is the line's newest Excel-class ship. It features an expanded family and youth program, including its offerings for teens. The line also rolled out the new program fleetwide in spring 2023.

The Carnival Cruise Line teen programming at Circle "C" is for tweens ages 12 to 14, while Club O2 is for ages 15 to 17. In these venues you'll find entertainment like themed dance parties – and even a Carnival prom – as well as video games, movies and karaoke. Circle "C" stands for "Cruise, chill and connect," and that's what teens can do in this colorful, contemporary space with engaging counselors. New activities include anime drawing lessons and pop culture games at Circle "C." Older teens can foster new friendships while engaging in Japanese crafts and authentic tea ceremonies at Club O2.

Teens will appreciate Carnival's onboard water park, Waterworks, which includes a splash park and slides. Carnival Panorama even has the trampoline park Skyzone. Teenage passengers won't want to miss the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, on Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras , Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee, scheduled to launch in December 2023.

For even more action, Vista-class ships feature Skyride. This two-lane, bike-like ride is suspended above the top deck of the ships and extends out over the ocean. More indoor fun can be found at Thrill Theater (on Horizon and Vista ), an immersive cinematic experience where you'll feel the seat rumble, the wind blow through your hair and even a spritz of water during the action-packed video.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea .

Celebrity Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

This line's Teen Club features activities focused on kids 13 to 17. Some of the events offered for teens in the Camp at Sea program on Celebrity Cruises range from video game tournaments and sports competitions to culinary classes and silent disco parties. Teen cruisers can even book glass-blowing classes on Celebrity Solstice , Equinox and Eclipse . The offerings for young passengers are similar at either The Basement on Edge-series ships ( Edge , Apex , Beyond and Ascent, set to launch in November 2023) or at X Club on Solstice- and Millennium-class ships. Note, however, the line's three Galápagos expedition vessels do not have the teen venues. Families who need accessible accommodations, activities and programs will also find autism-friendly cruises on Celebrity.

When it comes to pampering, Celebrity's spas offer spa menus for 13- to 17-year-olds. Teens can book facials that are designed for young sensitive skin or have express pedicures and manicures. When you're ready to relax, schedule a two-by-two massage, where parents and kids can have a side-by-side treatment.

Celebrity also offers family-focused excursions that highlight cultural attractions, wildlife sightings and adventure. Some of these tours include seeing gentoo, king and Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands; taking an aerial tram through the treetop canopies of a rainforest in Costa Rica ; and going on a small culinary or sightseeing group excursion in Europe and other destinations around the world. On Caribbean sailings – especially when school is out for summer or on holidays – Celebrity has additional family-friendly shore excursions on its five- and seven-night sailings.

Find a  Celebrity Cruises deal on GoToSea .

Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers programs and activities for passengers ages 13 to 17 years old in its Teen Zone. This dedicated space is a place for teens to hang out with cruisers their own age and play video and team games, table tennis, and more. On the first day of the cruise, you'll find an activity program for young guests delivered to the stateroom so your teens can plan out their vacation experience, which may include entertaining theme days, deck sports, quizzes and dancing at the disco.

Teens on Cunard Line can participate in the activities around the ship, hit the pool for a dip, practice their putting or try their hand at croquet. If you're sailing on Queen Mary 2, those interested in science, wildlife and the solar system can watch up to four 3D films a day (on sea days) in the largest planetarium at sea.

Compare  Cunard Line cruises on GoToSea .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She's sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, traditional masted sailing ships, and expedition vessels in Antarctica and the Galápagos. Pratesi covers the travel and cruise industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free
• The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers
• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• Cruise Packing List
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

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18 Best Cruises for Young Adults

Explore the top 18 cruises for young adults! From budget-friendly to luxury options, find the perfect sea adventure to suit your style and wallet.

Cruises are the ideal vacation for people that want to enjoy a fun holiday without a packed schedule. You can relax and enjoy the entertainment around you. While cruises are an ideal vacation for all ages, they are becoming more popular with young adults. If you're in your 20s or 30s, you might wonder what the best cruise line options are for your age group.

Carnival Cruise Lines hosts the best parties on the sea. This is a top-choice cruise line for young adults seeking a fun adventure. Royal Caribbean is another popular choice because there are fun activities onboard, like watersports and live entertainment. Norwegian Cruise Lines has a variety of vacation packages, including many discounted options to stay under your budget.

There are many great cruise lines to consider. Enjoying the onboard activities and entertainment is part of the fun of going on a cruise. Today, we're going to discuss some of the best cruise line options for young adults. Find out which cruises fit your budget and vacation expectations.

1. Royal Caribbean

Cost: $70 to $6365

‍ Trip Length: 2 nights to 19 nights

Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines for young adults because of the great deals. Travelers can enjoy a cruise on one of Royal Caribbean's award-winning ships for a fraction of the price of the other guys. One of the perks of choosing this cruise line is that they have sales frequently, offering you more opportunities to save money on your trip.

Why Young Adults Choose Royal Caribbean

Each Royal Caribbean cruise ship is set up for the ultimate trip on the sea. They feature onboard activities, like water parks and rock climbing walls. Travelers also have a great selection of restaurants and bars on board every ship with live entertainment. When you need a break, there are plenty of peaceful lounge areas with a bar nearby.

Best Royal Caribbean Cruises For Young Adults

• Perfect Day Getaway Cruise: This 2-night cruise takes travelers from Orlando, FL to CocoCay in the Bahamas.  
• Western Caribbean Cruise: This 7-night cruise departs from Gavelston, TX. It travels to Roatan, Honduras, as well as Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.
• Fall Foliage Southbound Cruise: This 11-night cruise departs from Quebec City. It takes travelers to select locations throughout Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Maine, and New Jersey.

2. Norwegian Cruise Line

Cost: $261 to $9518

‍ Trip Length: 2 days to 21 days

Norwegian Cruise Line is a great choice for young adults because of all the options. There are just as many budget-friendly packages as there are luxury options with this cruise line.

Why Young Adults Choose Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line makes it easier for travelers to find the right vacation package. All guests can enjoy a freestyle vacation experience by enjoying activities on their own schedule. While on board, people will be able to enjoy activity zones, deck parties, and gourmet meals from a variety of restaurants.

Best Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise For Young Adults

• Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau, & Ketchikan: This 7-day cruise takes off from Seattle, WA. It takes guests to several places in Alaska before taking the journey to Victoria, British Columbia.
• Mediterranean: Italy, France, & Spain: Passengers can board this 9-day cruise in Barcelona, Spain. It takes travelers to several locations throughout Spain, France, Italy, Sardinia, and Majorca.

3. Carnival Cruise Lines

Cost: $100 to $2600

‍ Trip Length: 2 days to 18 days

Carnival Cruise Lines has become one of the top-choice cruise lines for young adults. The fun never stops on these cruise ships and there's a plethora of different cruises to choose from.

Why Young Adults Choose Carnival Cruise Lines

The exciting onboard activities are the biggest seller for young adults. Travelers can have fun ziplining, play family feud, or spend an afternoon on the water slide. There's also a spa onboard so all travelers get the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. Another reason that Carnival Cruise Lines is popular with travelers is that the suites are spacious and comfortable.

Best Carnival Cruise Lines Cruises For Young Adults

• Baja Mexico- Carnival Radiance : This 4-day cruise departs from Long Beach in Los Angeles, CA. It takes travelers to Catalina Island and Ensenada.
• The Bahamas- Carnival Liberty: This 3-day cruise leaves Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL. It takes travelers to Bimini, an island in the western district of the Bahamas.
• Eastern Caribbean- Carnival Elation: This 7-day cruise starts off in Jacksonville, FL. Travelers will get to visit Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, and Nassau.

4. Celebrity Cruises

Cost: $169 to $20,910

‍ Trip Length: 3 nights to 12 nights

Young adults love Celebrity Cruises because they get the celebrity treatment. You can enjoy award-winning cruises that will take you to some of the top vacation destinations around the world.

Why Young Adults Choose Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is one of the most relaxing cruise lines. People that want to relax while enjoying their trip on the sea will enjoy The Retreat. Guests can unwind in the luxury lounge, enjoy the view from the sundeck, or enjoy a meal in a private restaurant.

Best Celebrity Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Ultimate Southern Caribbean Cruise: This 10-night cruise takes off from Fort Lauderdale, FL. During the vacation, it will take guests to Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, and St. Kitts & Nevis.
• Western Caribbean Cruise: This 7-night cruise will take a quick trip from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, FL. It will then travel to Belize City before heading to Cozumel, Mexico. It will make one last trip to Bihimi, Bahamas before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

5. Virgin Voyages

Cost: $907 to $3300

‍ Trip Length: 4 nights to 14 nights

Virgin Voyages is a great cruise line for young adults to consider because there won't be any kids onboard. This is an adults-only luxury cruise line with all the essentials (and more) for an amazing vacation.

Why Young Adults Choose Virgin Voyages

This all-inclusive cruise line provides a fun and memorable vacation experience for guests. You can enjoy your choice of over 20 different restaurants on board at no additional cost. There are several places on board where you can relax in the sun or go for a dip in the water.

Best Virgin Voyages Cruises For Young Adults

• Fire & Sunsets Soirees: This exclusive 4-night cruise takes off from Miami. It takes guests to Key West for a day before heading to Bimini, Bahamas.
• French Daze & Ibiza Nights: This exciting 7-night cruise departs from Barcelona. Its first stop is in Marseilles, then it travels to Cannes. After that, the next stop is in Olbia before heading off to Ibiza.

6. MSC Cruises

Cost: $119 to $3791

‍ Trip Length: 1 night to 117 nights

MSC Cruises is proud to offer amazing deals on cruises to some of the top vacation destinations around the world. Whether you want to book a longer getaway or only have time for a quick weekend cruise, this is a great cruise line to consider.

Why Young Adults Choose MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offer young adults a safe and fun travel experience. On board, you can enjoy a variety of activities, like the casino, 4D cinema, and mini bowling. Guests can enjoy award-winning entertainment and an onboard art gallery. There are also several bars, lounges, restaurants, and buffets on these cruise ships.

Best MSC Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Caribbean & Bahamas: This 8-day cruise departs from Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL. During this cruise, guests will get to visit various locations in the Bahamas and Mexico.
• Mediterranean: Enjoy a 7-night trip that departs from Venice, Italy. Its first destination will be Kotor, Montenegro before heading to Mykonos and Santorini in Greece. It will then head to Bari, Italy before returning to Venice.

7. P&O Cruises

Cost: $229 to $10,469

‍ Trip Length: 3 nights to 99 nights

P&O Cruises is the #1 British cruise line that appeals to young adults. They have cruise ships that take travelers to destinations around the world, like the Caribbean islands and Norwegian Fjords.

Why Young Adults Choose P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is an experience created by travel experts. Passengers enjoy this cruise line because they get more full-day experiences at each of the destinations. They can also enjoy comfortable and luxurious suites at incredible value. On board, there is a great selection of dining options. Young adults can also enjoy rum and gin distilleries on cruise ships.

Best P&O Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Norway Cruise: This 12-night cruise departs from Southhampton, UK. It takes travels to several destinations in Norway, including Andalsnes, Romsdalsfjord, Tromso, and Narvik.
• Canary Islands Cruise: This 16-night cruise departs from Valetta, Malta and arrives in Tenerife, Spain. Throughout the journey, it will stop at destinations like Taranto, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Split, Mallorca, Gibraltar, and Arrecife De Lanzarote.

8. Lindblad Expeditions

Cost: $3260 to $52,990

‍ Trip Length: 5 days to 35 days

Lindblad Expeditions provides a first-class experience for travelers that want to see more of the world. This cruise line is partnered with National Geographic to provide the best in travel expeditions.

Why Young Adults Choose Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions offers all-inclusive luxury travel packages at a fair value. Everything is included with their travel packages, so you can enjoy gourmet meals, hors d'oeuvres, coffee, and drinks from the bars without worrying about the tab later. Lindblad Expeditions has also won several awards, including Best Expedition Cruise Line and Best Adventure Cruise Lines.

Best Lindblad Expeditions Cruises For Young Adults

• Wild California Escape: This 5-day cruise takes passengers throughout the coast of California.
• Wild Belize Escape: This 6-day cruise journeys throughout Belize and Guatemala.
• Culture & Cuisine Cruise: Passengers can enjoy a 7-day cruise that takes them to select destinations throughout Europe and the British Isles

9. Paul Gauguin Cruises

Cost: $2990 to $8660

‍ Trip Length: 7 nights to 16 nights

Paul Gauguin Cruises is one of the best luxury cruise lines that travels to select locations throughout the South Pacific. It's one of the most enjoyable ways to travel this side of the world.

Why Young Adults Choose Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises takes travelers to several destinations on their bucket lists. It's the perfect cruise line for people to consider if they want to visit French Polynesia, Fiji, Tahiti, and other South Pacific destinations. Everything young adults need for a fun and relaxing vacation is included in their cruise, like fine dining, 24-hour room service, and live entertainment.

Best Paul Gauguin Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands: This 11-night cruise departs from Lautoka, Viti Levu Island. Travelers will visit a selection of destinations throughout Fiji before heading to Nuku'alofa. Then the cruise ship will head to Aitutaki, Cook Islands before heading to the Society Islands. Here, guests will get to travel to Bora Bora, Taha'a Island, and Moorea.
• Society Islands & Tuamotus: This 10-night cruise takes off from Tahiti. During its journey, it will stop at destinations like Huahine, Bora Bora, Rangiroa, Fakarava, Taha'a Island, and Moorea.  

10. Princess Cruises

Cost: $88 to $31,240 | Trip Length: 2 days to 107 days  

Princess Cruises has cruises in many parts of the world . You can enjoy the sunny weather of the Caribbean or see fall foliage throughout Canada, among many other destinations across the world.

Why Young People Choose Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises hosts enjoyable cruises that are unlike the other guys. Young adults (and people of all ages) enjoy the assortment of themed cruises to choose from. There are themes like The Love Boat and 80s cruises. They feature live entertainment to fit the themes as well.

Best Princess Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Australia Seacation: Princess Cruises has several options for the Australia Seacation. It's a 2-day cruise with ships departing from several ports throughout the country. You can find ships departing from Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, traveling to various locations.
• Pacific Coastal: This 3-day cruise takes passengers from San Fransico, CA to Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada). It will also stop in Victoria, British Columbia.

11. SeaDream Yacht Club

Cost: $2799 to $10,299

‍ Trip Length: 4 days to 16 days

Don't let the name fool you, this company isn't just a yacht club. They also specialize in seabound vacations. SeaDream Yacht Club arranges luxury cruises throughout the Caribbean Islands and the Mediterranean. This private cruise line has peaked a lot of young adults' interest.

Why Young Adults Choose SeaDream Yacht Club

The team at SeaDream pays attention to the details that make for an excellent vacation at sea. Travelers can kick back, relax, and enjoy a luxury vacation. There's a pool, golf courses, and a spa on board. All suites have an ocean view, making them the perfect relaxation zone. Travelers can also enjoy al fresco dining in this peaceful setting.

Best SeaDream Yacht Club Cruises For Young Adults

• Southern Italy Wine Journey: This 7-day cruise offers the ultimate culinary experience. Travelers will also get to try many different types of wine from some of the top wineries in the world.
• Winward Islands Discovery: This 7-day adventure departs from Bridgetown, Barbados. During the vacation, the cruise ship will visit various locations throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Before heading back to Barbados, it will stop at St. George's, Grenada

12. Uniworld

Cost: $2,699 to $23,799

‍ Trip Length: 8 days to 55 days

Uniworld offers the best in class experience when it comes to luxury cruises. All of the highlights of these cruise ships are put in place by travel experts to create a dream vacation at sea.

Why Young Adults Choose Uniworld

Uniworld has many options for adult-only cruises. Travelers feel like royalty as they get pampered on these cruise ships. The cozy rooms come with luxurious amenities. The food is served fresh with high-quality ingredients. There are also premium wines, beer, and spirits at the bar that are included with the vacation packages.

Best Uniworld Cruises For Young Adults

• Rhine & Moselle: This 10-day cruise departs from Strasbourg. During this cruise, travelers will get to visit Speyer, Cochem, Trier, Bernkastel, Boppard, and Frankfurt.
• European Jewels: This 16-day cruise takes travelers from Budapest to Amsterdam. It makes stops in popular destinations like Vienna, Passau, and Regensburg, among many more.
• Belgian Holiday Markets: This 8-day cruise starts off in Brussels. It travels to Gent, Hasselt, Maastricht, and Antwerp, where travelers can visit famous markets.

13. Viking Ocean Cruises

Cost: $3399 to $77,995

‍ Trip Length: 8 days to 138 days

Viking Ocean Cruises is an excellent choice for young adults that want to enjoy a high-end vacation. All travelers must be at least 19 years of age to travel on these cruise ships.

Why Young Adults Choose Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises is popular because of the smaller ship sizes. This allows many of the cruises to travel around areas that larger cruise lines don't have access to. Travelers will also get to learn more about the culture of the destinations they are traveling to onboard. Another perk of traveling with Viking Ocean Cruises is wine tasting with a professional sommelier.

Best Viking Ocean Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Alaska & The Inside Package: This 11-day cruise departs from Vancouver, British Columbia where it travels to Alaska. It will visit several destinations throughout Alaska, including Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, and more.
• Iceland's Natural Beauty: This 8-day adventure departs from Reykjavik in Iceland. It will travel to several destinations throughout the country, like Akureyri, Westman Islands, and more.
• Bangkok, Bali, & Beyond: Enjoy a 13-day cruise focused on scenic sailing and Asian arts. During this cruise, the ship will travel to several destinations throughout Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.

14. Silversea

Cost: $3950 to $119,600

‍ Trip Length: 5 days to 140 days

Silversea is known for its small luxury cruise ships. Travelers can enjoy a lavish vacation on the sea while visiting some of the best locations worldwide.

Why Young Adults Choose Silversea

Silversea is the best choice for a luxury cruise. Travelers enjoy that they have access to butler services 24 hours a day. The team on this ship goes above and beyond to make sure every need of the passengers is met. Silversea has a reputation for personal and friendly service.

Best Silversea Cruises For Young Adults

• Galapagos Islands: This 7-day cruise departs from San Cristobal, Galapagos in Ecuador. It travels to many beautiful destinations throughout Ecuador, like Kicker Rock, Isla Bartolome, and more.
• American West Coast: This 11-day cruise departs in Vancouver, British Columbia and finishes in San Diego, California. During the journey, it will stop at destinations like Seattle, Portland, and San Fransisco along the way.
• Mediterranean: This 7-day cruise departs from Fusina, Venice in Italy. During the trip, the cruise ship will travel to select destinations in Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and Montenegro.

15. Oceania Cruises

Cost: $1299 to $65,649

‍ Trip Length: 7 days to 218 days

Oceania Cruises makes it easier to book your dream cruise. They offer risk-free planning and some of the lowest rates on luxury cruises. Couples can even arrange 2-for-1 fares.

Why Young Adults Choose Oceania Cruises

With Oceania Cruises, there are more opportunities to find travel plans for any budget. This cruise line is known to have some of the best sales on cruise packages. Travelers can find sales on trips that can go as low as $99 per person. The cruise ships are very elegant and cozy, with fine dining areas.

Best Oceania Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Barcelona to Athens: This 14-day cruise departs from Barcelona, Spain and finishes in Athens, Greece. It travels to several destinations throughout Malta, Isreal, Turkey, and Greece.
• Rome To Miami: This 16-day cruise departs from Rome in Italy. On its journey to Miami, Florida, it will stop at various locations throughout France, Spain, the UK, Antigua, and Puerto Rico.

16. Seabourn

Cost: $3,748 to $99,248

‍ Trip Length: 7 days to 6 months

Seabourn is a popular cruise line because they have smaller ships with spacious suites. The all-inclusive travel packages offer travelers more for their money.

Why Young Adults Choose Seabourn

Seabourne is an adult-orientated cruise line. While children are allowed on board, the atmosphere and activities are catered to adults. Travelers can enjoy relaxing at the spa, burn off some calories at the fitness center, or attend an interesting travel lecture. They can also enjoy exceptional gourmet food with the best hospitality.

Best Seabourn Cruises For Young Adults

• Glaciers & Alaska Inside Passage: This 7-day cruise departs from Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada and arrives in Juneau, Alaska.
• Wonders Of Western Iceland: This 7-day excursion departs from Copenhagen, Denmark and takes travelers to Reykjavik, Iceland.
• Riveria Romance: This 8-day cruise takes off from Monte Carlo, Monaco and takes travelers to some of the Mediterranean's most romantic destinations, like Palamos and Ibiza.

17. Windstar Cruises

Cost: $1899 to $44,714

‍ Trip Length: 7 days to 85 days

Windstar Cruises is a popular choice among young adults seeking a luxury vacation because of its private ship style. This cruise line is known for its award-winning service and exceptional culinary talent.

Why Young Adults Choose Windstar Cruises

Young adults enjoy the intimate setting of the Windstar Cruises ships. It's one of the best cruise lines for newlyweds or young couples to consider for a romantic getaway. This cruise line also prides itself on providing travelers with authentic experiences at the destinations they visit.

Best Windstar Cruises Trips For Young Adults

• Southeast Canadian Exploration: This 11-day cruise takes off from Montreal, Quebec in Canada and travels to Boston, MA.
• Naturally Costa Rica: This 7-day cruise takes off from Puerto Caldera. It visits several of the most beautiful areas of Costa Rica, including Playa Flamingo and Playas del Coco.
• Holy Lands & Petra Cruise: This fascinating 11-day cruise takes travelers from Amman, Jordan to Athens, Greece. It stops in Cyprus, Heraklion, and other destinations along the way.

18. Disney Cruise Line

Cost: $1014 to $4747

‍ Trip Length: 2 nights to 14 nights

Disney isn't just for kids. People in any age group can enjoy a memorable vacation on Disney's cruise line. After all, there is no age limit on enjoying the magic of Disney.

Why Young Adults Choose Disney Cruise Line

Disney cruise ships take passengers to beautiful destinations throughout the world. Young adults enjoy the excitement of life onboard a Disney cruise ship. There is world-class live entertainment, a great selection of dining options, and fun parties on board. You may even get to meet one of your favorite Disney characters.

Best Disney Cruise Line Trips For Young Adults

• Baja Cruise: This 5-night cruise departs from San Diego, CA and arrives in Ensenada, Mexico.
• 3-Night Bahamian Cruise: This 3-night excursion takes travelers from Miami, FL to Nassau, Bahamas.

Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.

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Best cruises for young adults in 2024: Explore, Party, and Relax

Embarking on a cruise is an unforgettable way for young adults to explore new destinations, enjoy exhilarating parties, and unwind in luxurious relaxation. In this comparison review, we’ll dive into the best cruises for young adults in 2024, highlighting the top cruise lines and ships that cater to a variety of interests, from adventure-seeking enthusiasts to wellness-focused travelers. We’ll examine the unique offerings, itineraries, and onboard experiences that set these cruises apart from the rest, ensuring that you can find the perfect voyage to suit your needs and preferences. 

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time voyager, get ready to set sail on the journey of a lifetime with our comprehensive guide to the ultimate cruising experiences for young adults in 2024.

Page Contents

Why do people go on cruises?

Cruises have long been a popular vacation choice for people of all ages, including young adults . With a myriad of activities, entertainment options, and opportunities to explore new destinations, cruising is an attractive way to experience the world in a convenient and enjoyable manner. One of the main reasons people choose to cruise is the all-inclusive nature of the experience. With accommodations, meals, and entertainment typically bundled into one package, travelers can indulge in a hassle-free vacation that often offers great value for their money.

Young adults , ranging from college students to young professionals, are increasingly recognizing the appeal of cruises. Cruises for 21-year-olds and other young adults offer a perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and cultural immersion. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , and Carnival Cruise Line cater to this demographic by providing age-specific activities, parties, and events that create a lively and engaging atmosphere. Additionally, many cruise lines now offer a variety of themed voyages that cater to specific interests such as music festivals, wellness retreats, or adventure excursions, making them an ideal vacation choice for young travelers.

The cruise industry has also made strides in accommodating younger guests, including those in their early twenties. With no shortage of activities and entertainment options designed to appeal to the younger generation, 20-year-olds can easily find a cruise that suits their needs and interests. From adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and rock climbing to exclusive clubs and lounges for younger guests, cruise lines have created a diverse range of offerings that cater to this age group. Ultimately, cruises provide a versatile and dynamic vacation option for young adults, presenting an array of experiences tailored to their unique preferences and desires.

What is a good cruise?

A good cruise is one that offers a well-rounded experience, catering to the diverse needs and interests of its guests. While the definition of a good cruise may vary depending on individual preferences, there are several key factors that contribute to an exceptional cruising experience. These factors include a wide array of onboard activities, quality accommodations, exceptional dining options, and exciting itineraries that take travelers to breathtaking destinations.

Onboard activities play a significant role in creating a memorable cruise experience. A good cruise will offer a variety of entertainment options and amenities that cater to different age groups and interests. These may include live shows, themed parties, sports facilities, swimming pools, and wellness centers. For young adults, cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , and Carnival Cruise Line are renowned for providing exhilarating and engaging activities that appeal to this demographic.

Quality accommodations are another essential aspect of a good cruise. Comfortable, well-appointed staterooms with attentive service ensure that guests can enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. Many cruise lines offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from cozy interior cabins to lavish suites with private balconies. Furthermore, exceptional dining options that cater to various tastes and dietary needs are a vital component of a top-notch cruise experience. Guests can expect a mix of casual and fine dining venues, as well as specialty restaurants that offer diverse cuisine options.

Lastly, a good cruise will feature exciting itineraries that enable travelers to explore new destinations and immerse themselves in unique cultures. Cruise lines often curate itineraries that balance the time spent at sea with port calls, allowing guests to make the most of their vacation. The best cruises offer a combination of popular tourist destinations and lesser-known gems, providing an opportunity for travelers to create lasting memories and broaden their horizons.

What are the different types of cruises?

The cruising industry has evolved to offer a wide variety of options catering to diverse interests and preferences. In order to meet the needs of different travelers, several types of cruises have emerged, each with its unique offerings and experiences.

Adventure cruises are designed for those seeking thrilling experiences and active itineraries. These cruises often include activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching, with destinations that showcase natural wonders, wildlife, and remote landscapes. Lines like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions are known for providing these types of immersive experiences.

Themed cruises focus on a specific interest or hobby, offering guests the opportunity to indulge in their passions while sailing. These cruises can revolve around music festivals, gastronomy, sports, wellness, or even television shows and movies. Cruise lines like StarVista Live and Sixthman are popular for their music-themed cruises.

River cruises provide a more intimate and leisurely experience, with smaller ships that navigate inland waterways. These cruises often include stops at charming towns, historical sites, and picturesque landscapes, with lines like Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways offering a range of itineraries.

Luxury cruises focus on providing an upscale, all-inclusive experience, with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious accommodations. Cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises cater to guests who seek unparalleled luxury and sophistication.

Celebrity Cruises are known for their modern luxury and elegant design, and they also cater to young adults with their wide range of onboard activities, entertainment, and nightlife options. The age group that cruises the most can vary depending on the type of cruise and destination, but generally, the 40-60 age range is the most common demographic. However, younger travelers are increasingly taking to cruising, and many cruise lines are adapting their offerings to cater to these younger guests.

For travelers seeking an 18+ cruise experience , lines like U River Cruises by Uniworld and Virgin Voyages specifically target the young adult market, with age restrictions and a focus on creating a more youthful and energetic atmosphere on board. These cruise lines are designed to appeal to younger travelers with their modern amenities, unique experiences, and vibrant social environments.

When should you go on a cruise?

Deciding when to go on a cruise is an essential aspect of planning a memorable and enjoyable vacation. The ideal time to embark on a cruise depends on various factors such as destination, budget, personal preferences, and weather conditions. By considering these elements, travelers can optimize their cruising experience and make the most of their voyage.

Destination plays a significant role in determining the best time for a cruise. Different regions have their peak travel seasons, usually characterized by favorable weather and increased tourist activity. For example, the Caribbean is a popular year-round destination, but the optimal cruising season typically falls between December and April, when the weather is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall. On the other hand, Mediterranean cruises are best enjoyed between May and October, when temperatures are pleasant and the majority of ports are bustling with activity. Alaska’s cruising season is shorter, spanning from May to September, with the warmest months being June and July.

Budget is another crucial factor when deciding when to cruise. Peak travel seasons often come with higher prices and increased demand, which may impact the availability of desirable accommodations and itineraries. Travelers on a budget may consider cruising during the shoulder seasons – the periods just before and after the peak seasons – to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds. Additionally, booking a cruise during the off-season or keeping an eye out for last-minute deals and early-bird specials can result in significant savings.

Lastly, personal preferences and priorities can influence the ideal time for a cruise. For travelers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience, cruising during the off-season may be more appealing. On the other hand, those who thrive on lively atmospheres and bustling ports may prefer to sail during peak travel seasons. It is essential to consider factors such as personal schedules, school or work commitments, and any specific events or festivals that may influence the timing of the cruise.

Best Cruises for young adults (top pick)

Our top pick for the best cruise for young adults in 2024 is the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore . This state-of-the-art ship offers an incredible mix of entertainment, dining options, and onboard activities that cater specifically to the tastes and interests of young adults, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable cruise vacation.

One of the standout features of the Norwegian Encore is its wide range of onboard activities . Young adults can experience the thrill of the largest race track at sea, the Encore Speedway, or test their agility at the open-air laser tag arena. Additionally, the ship boasts a fantastic aqua park, complete with multi-story waterslides and splash zones. For those seeking relaxation and wellness, the Mandara Spa & Salon and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club provide the perfect retreat.

When it comes to entertainment , the Norwegian Encore does not disappoint. The ship features world-class Broadway-style productions such as “Kinky Boots” and “The Choir of Man,” as well as live music performances and comedy shows. The various bars and lounges, including the Skyline Bar with its panoramic ocean views and the interactive Galaxy Pavilion, provide a lively atmosphere for socializing and meeting new people.

Dining is another area where the Norwegian Encore excels. With over 20 different dining options (I talian cuisine , Japanese cuisine ,..) , guests can indulge in a wide variety of culinary experiences, from casual eateries to specialty restaurants featuring international cuisine. The ship’s Freestyle Dining concept allows guests the flexibility to dine whenever and wherever they choose, with no fixed dining times or assigned seating.

Lastly, the Norwegian Encore offers a range of itineraries that cater to young adults’ adventurous spirits, with destinations such as the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Mexican Riviera. These itineraries include exciting ports of call, where guests can participate in shore excursions, explore local culture, and indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities.

Best Party cruises for young adults (3 options)

The first option for the best party cruises for young adults is Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Vista . Known as the “Fun Ships,” Carnival Cruise Line is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and lively nightlife, making it an ideal choice for young adults seeking a party-centric cruise experience. The Carnival Vista features a range of bars, lounges, and clubs, including the RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, and the energetic Liquid Nightclub. Additionally, the ship hosts themed parties and deck parties, ensuring non-stop entertainment for party enthusiasts.

Another excellent option for young adults looking for a party cruise is Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas . This state-of-the-art ship boasts a dynamic nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and lounges such as the Bionic Bar, Boleros, and the Boot & Bonnet Pub. The highlight of the ship’s entertainment scene is the onboard nightclub, Club Twenty, which features a DJ spinning the latest hits, a spacious dance floor, and a lively atmosphere perfect for late-night revelry. The ship also hosts themed parties and events, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening on board.

Lastly, for a unique party cruise experience, consider Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady . Designed exclusively for adults, this cruise line focuses on creating a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere while offering plenty of opportunities for late-night fun. The ship features a range of bars and lounges, including the extravagant Manor nightclub, inspired by Richard Branson’s personal recording studio. Virgin Voyages also hosts themed parties and events, such as the Scarlet Night Party and the Aquatic Club, providing an unforgettable party experience for young adults seeking a more upscale and modern environment.

Best Mediterranean cruises for young adults (3 options)

The first option for the best Mediterranean cruises for young adults is Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas . This innovative ship offers an exciting mix of onboard activities, dining options, and entertainment, along with itineraries that take guests to some of the most iconic Mediterranean destinations, such as Rome, Barcelona, and the Greek Islands. The ship features a range of amenities tailored to young adults, including a surfing simulator, a skydiving simulator, and the SeaPlex, an indoor sports complex offering bumper cars and roller skating.

Another excellent option for young adults looking to explore the Mediterranean is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic . Known for its Freestyle Cruising concept, the Norwegian Epic provides guests with the flexibility to create their ideal vacation experience. The ship offers a wide array of dining options, a vibrant nightlife scene, and entertainment such as the famous Cirque Dreams and Dinner show. The itineraries include stops at popular Mediterranean destinations like Cannes, Naples, and Majorca, allowing young adults to immerse themselves in the region’s rich history and culture.

Lastly, for a more intimate and immersive Mediterranean experience, consider Celestyal Cruises’ Celestyal Olympia . This smaller ship focuses on providing guests with an authentic taste of the Mediterranean, with itineraries that include more time in ports and stops at lesser-known gems in the region. Young adults can enjoy the ship’s cozy atmosphere and engaging onboard activities, such as Greek cooking classes, wine tastings, and language lessons. Celestyal Olympia’s itineraries feature destinations like Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete, offering a unique opportunity for travelers to delve deeper into the Mediterranean’s captivating charm.

Best cruises for single young adults (3 options)

The first option for the best cruises for single young adults is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway . This ship offers a fantastic range of amenities and entertainment options that cater to the needs of solo travelers. A unique feature of the Norwegian Getaway is its Studio staterooms , specifically designed for single guests, with access to an exclusive Studio Lounge, where solo travelers can socialize and make new friends. The ship’s Freestyle Dining concept and diverse entertainment options provide ample opportunities for mingling with other guests in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

Another great choice for single young adults is Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas . This innovative ship offers a wide array of activities and entertainment that appeal to solo travelers, such as the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, North Star observation capsule, and the Two70 lounge with its mesmerizing Vistarama shows. The Anthem of the Seas also features a Virtual Balcony stateroom , which offers solo guests a spacious and comfortable cabin with a real-time ocean view. With multiple dining venues and an energetic nightlife scene, solo travelers can easily connect with like-minded guests and enjoy a memorable cruise experience.

Lastly, for a more adult-focused cruise experience, consider Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady . This adults-only ship offers a range of amenities tailored to solo travelers, such as the Social Insider cabins designed for single guests. With a vibrant atmosphere and various onboard activities, including fitness classes, spa treatments, and cooking demonstrations, solo travelers have numerous opportunities to socialize and meet new people. The ship’s lively bars, lounges, and themed parties create the perfect environment for single young adults to have a fun and unforgettable cruising experience.

Best cruise holidays for young adults (3 options)

The first option for the best cruise holidays for young adults is Contiki’s Mediterranean Escape cruise. Contiki, a travel company specializing in vacations for 18-35-year-olds, offers a 7-day cruise that sails through the stunning Mediterranean, visiting destinations such as Barcelona, Nice, Rome, and Ibiza. With a focus on immersive experiences and connecting with like-minded travelers, this cruise provides young adults with opportunities to explore iconic sites, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy nightlife both on board and in port, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.

Another excellent option for young adults is the Groove Cruise . This unique music-themed cruise offers an exhilarating onboard party atmosphere, featuring world-class electronic dance music (EDM) artists and DJs. With multiple stages, themed parties, and non-stop music, the Groove Cruise is perfect for young adults who love to dance and enjoy a high-energy vacation. The itineraries typically include stops at popular destinations in the Caribbean or the Mexican Riviera, allowing guests to enjoy beautiful beaches and exciting shore excursions during the day.

Lastly, for adventure-seeking young adults, consider G Adventures’ Sailing Croatia – Dubrovnik to Split cruise. This 8-day sailing adventure explores the breathtaking Dalmatian coast of Croatia on a small, intimate yacht, allowing for a more personalized experience. With stops at historic towns, hidden coves, and pristine beaches, young adults can enjoy a blend of relaxation, exploration, and thrilling water-based activities, such as snorkeling and paddleboarding. This G Adventures cruise offers the perfect balance of adventure and leisure, making it an ideal holiday choice for young adults looking for an unforgettable experience.

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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The Best Cruises For Young Adults (6 Cruise Lines)

I f you are a regular reader here, you know that I am a big fan of cruising – both on family cruises and adult-only cruises. Cruises can be a great way to explore the world in an easy manner – without having to worry about traveling between destinations and finding places to stay.

Beyond that, cruises offer a number of activities on board that can be very fun for people of all ages. So, are cruises good for young adults? With lots of amenities and activities that appeal to older teens and young adults, we think they are a great vacation option. Read more about the best cruises for young adults, including what to look for when you book your cruise.

Disclosure: We have been on some of these cruise lines at no cost for purposes of review, and have paid my way on many others. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Looking for a cruise? You can check the prices of a variety of cruise lines at this link .

Why Cruise as a Young Adult

If you haven’t been on a cruise before, you may think of cruises as something for either children or for older people. But, young people can have a great time on a cruise. Here are some benefits:

• Onboard activities that are both fun and a great way to meet other young adults
• Easy way to explore the world without having to travel to multiple destinations
• Great for a group because there is something for everyone
• Delicious food with lots of different options
• Easy vacation with minimal planning
• Close to all-inclusive experience makes budgeting for vacation easier
• Amenities that appeal to young adults, like live music, water parks, pool parties, zip lines, comedy shows, basketball courts, and more

Whether you are a young adult traveling on your own, with your parents, or with a group, a cruise is such a fun option.

What to Look for in a Cruise/Cruise Line

Once you’ve decided to take a cruise vacation, you’ll need to choose a cruise line, ship, and itinerary. I’d recommend starting with a cruise line and then choosing the ship and itinerary after that.

When choosing a cruise line, look for activities that you want to participate in. Do you want to see Broadway-caliber shows? Do you want to eat gourmet food? Do you want to do adventure activities on the ship, like rock climbing and zip lining?

After choosing a cruise line, you’ll probably want to look at the itinerary. You can find cruises traveling the world.

For a beginner cruise, you may consider taking a Caribbean cruise. There are lots of fantastic destinations, and you’ll also likely have some great weather so you can enjoy the sun decks, pools, and beaches at the ports.

What Are The Best Cruise Lines for Young Adults?

Offering 25 ships with a variety of different itineraries, Carnival Cruise Line is known for its festive, party atmosphere on board the ships. Sailings on Carnival are relatively affordable, and there are so many different itineraries and port options.

Over 10 years ago, Carnival rolled out its Fun Ship 2.0 concept. This initiative includes a variety of entertainment and culinary options, including partnerships with celebrities such as Guy Fieri on these fun ships. As Carnival cruises have been renovated and introduced, they have included these features.

The newest Carnival ships, including the Mardi Gras, Celebration, and upcoming Jubilee, include the Bolt Sea Coaster, the first roller coaster at sea. Adventure lovers will definitely want to try this out.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Like some of the other cruise lines on this list, Norwegian has recently introduced some new ships with all of the popular features that young adults will love. There are currently 19 Norwegian cruise ships with 4 Prima class ships on order.

Activities and amenities do vary by ship, so be sure to research the specific ship before booking. Some fun activities include the Plank and Ropes Course (Norwegian Breakaway and Breakaway Plus Class ships), a mini-golf course on the Norwegian Bliss, go-kart tracks, and a waterpark (on the Norwegian Breakaway Class ships).

Norwegian Sailings also offers themed parties, many of which can be fun for young adults on board the ship. They offer 42 different departure ports, so there are plenty of options to choose from. They also offer solo cabins, if you’d like to travel alone.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages , a new-ish cruise line offering three (soon to be four) ships, is very popular among young adult guests. This cruise line has made a lot of changes to the cruise paradigm and is exclusively available to adults (18+). I’ve been on Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady three times now, and absolutely love both the ship and the cruise line.

While Virgin ships don’t have the coasters, mini golf, and water slides of some of these cruise lines, they do have a wide range of activities that young adult cruisers will love. All of the ships offer fun activities, including “shot for shot” (a mixology seminar that also teaches you how to take great social media images), board games, Scarlet Night (a huge deck party at night ending with a pool party), dance parties, and a big float party at the Bimini Beach Club.

Focused on fitness? While Virgin Voyages does offer parties and events each night, they also have a robust fitness program. There’s a huge fitness center, as well as an offering of dance and workout classes. There are also plenty of healthy food options, including a juice bar where you can get fresh pressed juices.

Virgin Voyages also offers a spa, beauty salon, nail salon, barber, and even a tattoo parlor. There’s so much to do on the ships, but they also offer some great ports of call, including spots in England, Greece, and the Caribbean. They also have great dining options – all of which are included in your cruise fare.

Virgin Voyages is an excellent choice for solo cruisers. While most cruises do charge a single supplement, Virgin has dedicated some specific smaller cabins for solo travelers.

Disney Cruise Line

You may be wondering if the Disney Cruise Line , which is known as an extremely family-friendly cruise line, is good for young adults. In my opinion, people of all ages have plenty to enjoy on a Disney cruise ship and it’s a popular choice, even beyond young families.

Disney Cruise Line currently has five cruise ships, with two additional ships on the way. While these ships do offer some of the Disney touches they are known for, they aren’t just for kids. Activities on these Disney cruises include music trivia, movies, beverage seminars (for those 21+), silent disco parties, and more.

Disney Cruise Line also has a fantastic spa, with a Rainforest Room offering therapeutic showers, saunas, hot tubs, and more. There are also some great adult-only areas, where you can get away from the kids on board.

While the Broadway-style shows are Disney-themed, they are still fun for anyone to watch. The ships also offer movie theaters where you can see first-run movies.

For many young adults, the Disney Cruise Line is the nostalgic choice for a cruise. You’ll see many young adults sailing with their parents on family vacations.

Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruise Line currently has 15 ships, with an additional ship expected in November 2023. While these ships are definitely not adult-only, there are some great activities that young adults will enjoy. It’s definitely not a party atmosphere, but if you are looking for a relaxed vibe with some fantastic amenities, this is a great option.

Celebrity was merged with Royal Caribbean in 1997, but the cruise lines are pretty different. On Celebrity cruises, expect to find some beautiful common areas, along with adult-friendly activities such as glass-blowing, a Turkish spa, delicious restaurants, and much more.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean ships are known as some of the most fun, with loads of activities on board. These vary by ship but include things like rock climbing walls, iFly skydiving, FlowRider surfing simulators, escape rooms, bumper cars, and water slides. You will never be bored on one of these ships.

Royal Caribbean also offers some world-class entertainment options on board. While the shows are all fantastic, they also have some fun game shows, trivia, and other on-board activities.

Because the activities on Royal Caribbean cruises vary, I’d really recommend looking at the specific ship that you are considering to see what is offered. In addition, we’d recommend booking an itinerary that stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas – Perfect Day at CocoCay. As the name suggests, this island offers something for everyone, including Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest water slide in North America.

What to Do When Onboard

Regardless of which of these cruise lines and cruise ships you choose, you’ll want to do some things while on board. It’s best to try to book these activities in advance wherever possible. Sometimes availability is limited if you wait, especially for the most popular activities.

Booking windows do vary by cruise line. For instance, Disney’s Castaway Club members are able to book activities first (in order of their level) once their cruise is paid off. However, with Virgin Voyages, many of the onboard activities can’t be booked until you are on the ship’s WiFi. Do some research in advance to know what you want to book and when you can book it.

What to Look at With Port Activities

Looking forward to getting off the ship? You’ll have various options at the different ports of call – from booking excursions on the ship to booking your own. There is definitely a risk with booking your own, so make sure you weigh your options carefully.

When booking, think about the type of experience you want to have. Do you want a city tour? Would you prefer to taste some of the local cuisine? Are you looking for some adventure? Or maybe you’d prefer relaxing on a beach.

The quality of excursions can vary, so look at reviews before booking. In most cases, port excursions can be booked in advance.

Are you a young adult who has been on a cruise? What is your favorite cruise for young adults?

The post The Best Cruises For Young Adults (6 Cruise Lines) appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

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8 Best Cruise Lines for Young Adults

• Honeymooners
• Young Adults

For decades, the ocean cruise industry catered toward either retired travelers or young families. Those days, however, are long gone. Nowadays, going a cruise is incredibly popular among the younger crowd as well. It’s not unusual at all to go on cruises as a 20-something year old. In fact, many cruise lines now have plenty of amenities and facilities that focus on young people. In this post, we focus on the millennial audience, and have made an overview of the best cruise lines for young adults.

Important : Keep in mind that most cruise lines have minimum age requirements. Similar to renting a car, most cruise lines require that you be at least 21 years old. Make sure to ask your travel agent (call us at 800-498-7245 with questions) about any restrictions. If you decide to book with us (arguably the best option and cheapest price), our agents will work with you to identify the best cruise line for you.

Our Picks for the Best Cruise Lines for Young Adults

Millennials tend to spend their money on experiences instead of on material things. The following best cruise lines for young adults know this and have catered their ships and activities to this. On their ships, you’ll find nightclubs and concert venues, along with things to do like bar crawls, hiking excursions and onboard zip lining.

1. Carnival Cruise Line

Let’s start with arguably the best cruise line for young adults in the world, Carnival Cruise Line . Its name alone tells you everything you need to know, really. Carnival’s “fun ships” are all about entertainment, nightlife and places to relax during the day.

Carnival Cruise Line boast a festival-like atmosphere, including pool parties and active shore excursions. The ships feature some truly unique bars and their newest ship even has its own craft brewery.

2. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is definitely the best cruise line for active young adults. Their ships are chock-full with features catered to the younger, more active crowd. There are climbing walls and surfing simulators, martini-mixing robots and a plethora of bars, nightclub and entertainment venues.

3. Celebrity Cruises

Although Celebrity Cruises is more suitable for young adults who are after a combination of relaxation and action—not just nightlife alone—, its “Sin City” burlesque venue does justify its spot in this list. This theater hosts shows every night, while you can do things like taking dance classes, relaxing at the Lawn Club and sampling craft beers at the Gastropub during the day.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

Young adults who like to party and gamble will want to check out what Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer. They’re said to have the best casinos of all cruise lines , while its night-long parties at the White Hot Party, its ice bars and lack of single supplements make it ideal for single young adults.

5. MSC Cruises

On the Top 18 adults-only deck on their Fantasia-class ships, MSC Cruises features relaxation areas, bars and spa treatments.

This is one of the best cruise lines for young adults, especially because it offers discounts per cabin for groups and couples. It’s ideal for young couples or groups of friends looking for a perfect getaway. Amenities range from live music and theater performances to shopping areas and bars.

6. Virgin Voyages

New to the industry is Virgin Voyages. To sail on a Virgin Voyage cruise, you’ll have to be at least 18 years of age, making this an attractive option for young adults who don’t want to be bothered by kids.

Unlike other cruise lines, the target audience here isn’t families. The goal is to attract people who wouldn’t normally consider going on a cruise. One things for sure, Virgin Voyages is going to transform the industry. Details are limited, but check out Virgin Voyages and what’s to come .

7. P&O Cruises

For shorter cruise trips, P&O Cruises is the company for you. Their P&O Sea Breaks are three- to five-nights long, offering young adults the chance to for a cruise that’s more affordable than sailings of a week or more.

Note that these short cruises take place in and around Australia, though, but they’re an excellent addition to any vacation in Australia, a country that’s super-popular among young backpackers anyway.

8. Disney Cruise Line

Young adults could, of course, also include young families. So, because we didn’t want to leave those out, we included Disney Cruise Line in this best cruise lines for young adults list.

This particular cruise line caters to children, but also has plenty to offer for adults. There’s on-board babysitting and kids’ clubs, along with adults-only entertainment such as comedy shows and concerts.

So there you have it, the best cruise lines for young adults. Have any questions? Feel free to contact us anytime using our contact page.

Get a price on a cruise in this post

Born and raised in Belgium, Bram is currently based in the Pacific Northwest where he spends his days blogging, hiking, indulging in freshly roasted coffee and sipping craft beers. An experienced traveler, his… More about Bram R

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8 of The Best Cruise Lines For Young Adults – By Price

Deciding on a cruise line as a young person can often be a difficult task, there is so much variety within the cruise industry and it’s incredibly important that you get it right. I’m 26 and have been cruising since I was 11 years old, I’m often asked which cruise lines I’d personally recommend for young cruisers and so I have put together this guide.

In this post we will talk a little about the pros and cons of each cruise line so that you can decide which cruise line suits you best.

This post contains affiliate links which are marked with *’s.

From Cheapest to Most Expensive… (ish)

Costa cruises.

Visit Costa’s website here to learn more: Costa Cruises

• Daily Schedule (Mid Range)
• Life Onboard (Lively)
• Formal Nights (Yes)
• Dress Codes (Elegant)
• Dining (Mostly Fixed)
• Based (Italy)

Costa cruises provide some of the cheapest cruises on the market. If you ever find a cruise which is $50 per night or less, chances are it’ll be a Costa cruise.

Costa Cruises are an Italian cruise line and as a result the experience onboard is mainly geared towards those people who speak Italian. Multiple languages will be spoken onboard but it is possible to cruise with Costa speaking only English.

There are 15 cruise ships in the Costa fleet and they are all as colourful, bright and loud as each other. Costa are owned by the Carnival brand.

What to Expect on a Costa Cruise

It isn’t unusual to find 10 or so different languages being spoken onboard a Costa cruise. Costa cruises are very popular with families, young adults and groups who come onboard to have fun.

The experience onboard is very lively, loud, bright and full of life. Some people may find the experience a little overwhelming but personally I really enjoyed how alive the ship felt.

One thing that surprised me when I took my first Costa cruise was the fact that there was an English speaking representative onboard who is there to take care of the English speaking guests. We did take an excursion during our cruise and she was with us during the excursion to help us should we need anything.

The English speaking representative was just one of the things that surprised me about my Costa cruise, to learn about the other things that took me by surprise, including what isn’t included in the cruise fare, check out this post:  My 1st cruise with Costa Cruises: 11 Surprises!

Dining Options Onboard

The dining on Costa is fixed and there are two seatings for dinner in the main dining room each evening. We were sat with 4 other English speaking guests. Costa do this not only so that the guests can talk but also to make it easier for the waiters. All staff onboard Costa cruises seemed to speak English but it can’t be easy for them to keep changing language!

There is also a buffet but I wasn’t very impressed with the food offered. The buffet also closed more often than I am used to on other cruise lines. That said, for the price I paid for my Costa cruise I’m impressed that any food was included.

Why Are Costa Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

Costa cruises are incredibly lively and there are always things going on around the ship. If you are somebody who likes to dance or sing you’ll have an incredible time on a Costa cruise. It is a little difficult to take part in activities onboard if you don’t speak Italian but things like the main theatre shows were in English and with all staff speaking English we never had any problems.

The price makes the cruises extremely accessible for younger cruisers who may not have a big budget. Costa cruises are often cheaper than staying in hotels on land and they also include food and your entertainment. This represents brilliant value for money.

Possible Cons:

• There isn’t much included in the cruise fare. It is a case of you get what you pay for, if you don’t pay very much you can’t expect very much to be included. To find out what is included in a Costa cruise, check out this post:  Are Costa Cruises All Inclusive? Your Guide To Whats Included.
• The ships are loud and lively. The atmosphere onboard may not be everybody’s taste.
• The food. I have to admit I was disappointed by the food in the buffet but was happy with the food in the main dining room. These are the only two options for included food on Costa cruises. For the price of the cruise, I’m amazed that any food was included at all.
• Entertainment. The entertainment being in multiple languages can make it difficult to participate.

Who Would I Recommend a Costa Cruise to?

I’d recommend Costa cruises to people who want a cheap, lively, fun cruise. Potential cruisers should be aware of what is included in the cruise fare and about the number of languages spoken onboard, if these things aren’t a problem then a Costa cruise can be a great budget friendly option. I’d describe Costa cruises as being cheap and cheerful.

MSC Cruises

– 18 Ships

Visit MSC ’s UK website here to learn more: MSC UK*

Visit MSC’s USA website here to learn more: MSC USA*

• Life Onboard (Relaxed)
• Dress Codes (Relaxed)
• Dining (Most Fixed)
• Based (Switzerland)

MSC provide some of the best value for money cruises on the market. They are an Italian cruise line but the primary language spoken onboard their cruise ships is English. MSC cruise worldwide and currently have 18 cruise ships in the fleet.

I am personally a big fan of MSC cruises. I’ve been on 3 to date and took 3 first time cruisers on an MSC cruise last year. They had a brilliant time and we paid a great price for it.

What to Expect on a MSC Cruise

The experience on an MSC cruise is fairly relaxed and generally speaking quite fun.

MSC do have formal nights of sorts but the dress codes aren’t strictly enforced, to learn more about this, including what you can and can’t wear, check out this post: MSC Cruises Formal Nights: Everything You Need To Know .

When it comes to dining the majority of dining is fixed but there are some flexible options too for certain guests.

The food itself is more ‘mediterranean’ than that which you’d find on an America cruise line but this is to be expected. There a lot of pasta, pizza and vegetables onboard and the portions are smaller than you’d find on American lines. That said, on a cruise you are free to order as many things as you’d like and the buffet is open almost 24/7 which means that guests wanting a late night snack can still grab one.

Entertainment

On an MSC cruise you’ll find passengers who speak a wide variety of languages. It isn’t uncommon for announcements to be made in 7 or 8 languages. This does slow down things like the theatre shows and the shows themselves tend to be more abstract than that that you’d find on an American or British line. The entertainment tends to avoid the use of language where possible to make it as applicable to as many passengers as possible, I tend to describe the live music as being boop boop boop music. By this I mean that there is a lot of noise which isn’t any language at all.

MSC have some of the biggest and most exciting cruise ships in the cruise industry. Many have things like ropes courses and zip lines and most have at least some sports courts and waterslides. The design of all ships is very elegant and modern with most ships featuring lots of sparkles.

All ships in the MSC fleet have the same kind of styling inside regardless of age.

Flexible Itineraries

MSC have some of the most flexible cruise itineraries within the industry. On most cruises you’ll find that there is an embarkation and a disembarkation port and all guests have to stick to this. With MSC guests embark and disembark almost every day and this gives passengers the opportunity to really customise their cruise.

Why Are MSC Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

MSC cruises provide budget friendly cruises on some of the best ships in the industry. Their flexible itineraries make them a perfect choice for a lot of cruisers who prefer to sail at certain times.

The onboard experience is very relaxed with dress codes being suggested rather than enforced. Many younger cruises, myself included, prefer this to traditionally enforced formal nights. For more information about the dress codes, including if they are actually enforced, check out this post:  MSC Cruises Dress Code: Photo Guide With Examples

The schedule onboard MSC cruises is also pretty busy, if you take a walk around an MSC cruise ship you’re almost guaranteed to find something going on somewhere. There is usually live music late into the light and variety of things like trivia and gameshows to take part in.

• Guests used to American/British portion sizes and food options may not like the food onboard.
• Multiple languages being spoken onboard can slow things down and make the cruise process more confusing for those who are new to cruising.
• Due to the low base price of MSC cruises you will find that onboard you are up-sold items available for purchase such as drinks packages and dining packages. Almost all cruise lines do this but I’ve noticed that it is particularly prominent on MSC cruises.

Top tip: If you are considering taking a cruise with MSC it is worth looking at their loyalty status match program. The program means that if you have a loyalty status with another cruise line, or some hotel chains, MSC will match this. I did this and matched my status with Norwegian Cruise Line to MSC, as a result I get lots of freebies when I’m onboard included a speciality meal, spa access and a chocolate ship. To find out how you can do this (it’s free) check out this post:  MSC Status Match: The Free Way To Get 5% Off MSC Cruises!

Who Would I Recommend a MSC Cruise to?

I would recommend MSC cruises to cruisers who want to cruise well on a budget. Guests should be aware that day to day life onboard is conducted in a variety of languages but that English is the main language spoken onboard.

I personally adore the MSC cruise ships as they are modern and elegant. MSC are perfect for people who want a relaxed cruise in elegant surroundings without too many elements of traditional cruising such as formal nights.

Marella Cruises

– 6 Ships

Visit Marella ’s website here to learn more: Marella*

• Price (***)
• Daily Schedule (Busy)
• Dining (Flexible)

Marella are a British cruise line who were formally known as Thomson. They currently have 6 cruise ships in their fleet and they provide ‘all inclusive’ cruises which include gratuities and alcohol drinks in the cruise fare.

I’m a big fan of Marella cruises because they make the process of cruising so easy. The onboard experience is primarily geared towards British cruisers with the majority of people onboard being from Britain. The main and only language spoken onboard is English.

What to Expect on a Marella Cruise

The entertainment on a Marella cruise is some of the best that I’ve ever seen at sea. The daily schedule is busy although not as busy as some of the bigger American cruise lines. When wandering around a Marella cruise you’ll find things like trivia, gameshows and live music.

Marella have 6 cruise ships in their fleet, 2 of which are ex Celebrity ships and 2 are ex Royal Caribbean ships. These 4 are personally my favourite in the fleet. To learn more about the Marella fleet, and to learn which ships I’d recommend for which types of people, check out this post:  Marella Cruises, Ships by Size: Photo Guide and Reviews.

Marella cruises include a variety of dining options in the cruise fare and also include alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks. The ‘all inclusive’ doesn’t include every type of drink, as most don’t, but they do include a good range of beers, wines and spirits.

Why Are Marella Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

Marella cruises are fun, informal and fairly budget friendly. The all inclusive pricing structure makes cruising with Marella really easy and they are popular with families and younger cruisers.

Many people, myself included, love the fact that there are multiple places to eat on Marella cruises included in the cruise fare, and the all inclusive drinks save a lot of passengers a lot of money.

• The ships have been incredibly well looked after but they are not new. Guests wanting to cruise on the biggest, newest cruise ships would be disappointed with Marella’s fleet.
• The experience onboard is very British, personally I like this but a lot of guests do prefer a more multicultural feel.
• Guests who do not drink may not like a cruise line where drinks are included.

Who Would I Recommend a Marella Cruise to?

I’d recommend a Marella cruise to families and young adults who want a budget friendly, fun cruise where the main language onboard is English. The majority of guests onboard are British so I would primarily recommend the line for other British cruisers, that said, many Americans, Australians, Canadians etc cruise with Marella and really enjoy the experience.

Carnival Cruises

Visit Carnivals website here to learn more: Carnival

• Dining (Flexible & Fixed)
• Based (USA)

Carnival are an American cruise line best known for being ‘fun ships’. Carnival focus primarily on the family and younger cruiser market and the experience onboard is very relaxed and lively.

What to Expect on a Carnival Cruise

The experience on a Carnival cruise is very lively, colourful and fun. If you take a walk around a Carnival cruise you’ll find things going on from early in the morning until late at night. There are plenty of food options available on Carnival cruises with options available at almost all hours of the day.

Why Are Carnival Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

I’ve actually not been on a Carnival cruise myself yet but I still do recommend them to families and younger cruisers. Carnival have a reputation for being for younger cruisers particularly in parts of the world like Caribbean. Carnival cruises are a very popular option with young cruisers taking their first cruise.

• Carnival cruises are very lively and loud which some guests may not like.
• The ships in the Carnival fleet do vary dramatically so it’s important to research your ship before you go.

Who Would I Recommend a Carnival Cruise to?

I’d recommend a Carnival cruise to guests who want to have fun on their cruise without a lot of the traditional elements of cruising such as enforced dress codes. Carnival are also a great option for budget cruisers as it’s often possible to get really cheap Carnival cruises, especially in places like the Caribbean.

Princess Cruises

Visit Princess’s website here to learn more: Princess Cruises*

Princess cruises provide a more relaxed cruise experience than the cruise lines above. Princess are an American cruise line and in my opinion they provide some of the best food and service at sea. Their ships are spacious, glamorous and each has multiple swimming pools.

What to Expect on a Princess Cruise

The experience on a Princess cruise is more traditional and relaxing than a lot of the other American cruise lines. That said the schedule onboard is still pretty busy and there is plenty to do.

Princess do tend to have an older passenger demographic than fellow American cruise lines like Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Line . But, at 26, I love Princess and continually recommend them to friends. So they make this list!

Princess Cruises currently have 20 cruise ships with more on the way. All cruise ships have the same style with many following a similar layout. This means that once you’ve cruised with Princess once every cruise you take will feel like coming back home and you’ll already recognise certain features.

One of my favourite things about the Princess ships is the number of swimming pools that each has, many have 4, 5 or 6 swimming pools! The ships also have ample deck space which means that they do feel much more spacious than other cruise ships of similar sizes.

One of my favourite things to do on a Princess cruise is the free Zumba classes! There are a number of other dance classes too, craft classes, trivia, gameshows, karaoke and all of the standard cruise related pass times.

Why Are Princess Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

Princess Cruises are good for young cruisers because they have a wide variety of cruise itineraries, the cruises are reasonable prices and the experience onboard is generally speaking of high quality.

Princess often have deals where the 3rd and 4th passengers in a cabin will go for a set reduced rate. This may be that the 3rd and 4th guests cruise for $99 regardless of the cruise length. Cruisers can save a lot of money by doing this and sharing the savings with everybody in the cabin.

• Guests seeking a lively ‘party all night’ type of cruise may be disappointed as the ships are generally speaking quite relaxed.
• Dining is still relatively traditional with formal nights and some fixed dining, it is possible to avoid the formal nights but most guests who cruise with Princess do enjoy taking part.

Who Would I Recommend a Princess Cruise to?

I’d recommend a Princess Cruises to guests wanting a relaxing cruise where they are able to do as much or as little as they’d like. The food and service are good onboard and although Princess cruises aren’t the busiest of the cruise lines but you’ll never be bored onboard.

I’d strongly recommend a Princess cruise to groups of cruisers, or families, who are looking to share a cabin. The 3rd and 4th passenger offers often offered by Princess can save cruisers a LOT of money.

P&O Cruises

Visit P&O Cruises website here to learn more: P&O Cruises

• Life Onboard (Traditional)
• Dress Codes (Formal)

P&O Cruises are a British cruise line who cruise a lot out of the UK. The experience onboard is very British with the majority of guests being from Britain and almost all being English speakers. P&O Cruises provide a relaxed, traditional style of cruising which cruisers of a variety of ages enjoy.

Note: It’s worth noting that the British portion of P&O Cruises are very different from the Australian version. The Australian P&O Cruises is much more of a party cruise than the British version.

Photo by Christopher Ison. www.christopherison.com

What to Expect on a P&O Cruise

The onboard schedule on a P&O cruise is much more relaxing than that of some of the big American cruise lines. P&O have formal nights and formal dress codes which are enforced onboard. The majority of guests cruising with P&O enjoy the opportunity to dress up and take part in formal nights with many wearing their finest dresses or tuxedos.

In my experience the food and service on P&O cruises is brilliant and the entertainment offered onboard is all of a high quality. P&O cruises are popular with families but are also popular with older passengers.

Why Are P&O Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

P&O offer traditional cruises which are accessible to the mass market. They are often very competitively priced with speciality discounts for children or free child places. Cruises with P&O are quite relaxed in that the onboard schedule isn’t overly busy but the entertainment offered is still good.

I took my first P&O cruise on P&O Britannia. To learn about my favourite things to do onboard are, including how to make the most out of the food available, check out this post: P&O Britannia: 8 free, must do, activities (MV Britannia)

• P&O do have formal nights and dress codes which are enforced. This isn’t to everybody’s taste but guests wanting to avoid the formal nights can do so by eating in the buffet.
• Some cruisers used to big American cruise lines may find the onboard experience to be quiet in comparison.
• The majority of guests onboard are British. Some people love this but it is still a potential con as many prefer a more multicultural feel when travelling.

Who Would I Recommend a P&O Cruise to?

I’d recommend a P&O cruise to cruisers who want to relax while experience some elements of traditional cruising. P&O cruises often have great prices for children so I’d also recommend P&O to families.

If you are British or would like to be surrounded by British culture, P&O cruises are a great way to do that. They make the process of cruising really easy so if you are a first time cruiser I’d also recommend P&O.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Visit Norwegian Cruise Line ’s website here to learn more: Norwegian Cruise Line

• Formal Nights (No)

Norwegian Cruise Line are one of the biggest and most popular cruise lines. I took my first cruise with Norwegian when I was 11 years old and have cruised with them ever since. Norwegian can be more expensive than a lot of other cruise lines in this list but if you can afford a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise they are always a good place to start.

Norwegian are very popular with solo cruisers due to their solo cabins and solo loungers on the newer ships.

What to Expect on a Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise

Norwegian focus heavily on freestyle dining and they have no formal nights onboard. The experience onboard is very lively and relaxed and guests are free to do as much or as little as they’d like. Despite not having formal nights there are still opportunities for guests to dress up if they want to, to learn more about that, check out this post: Norwegian Cruise Line Don’t Have Formal Nights : Here’s What They Have Instead.

Norwegian have broadway style shows on a lot of their ships and these are, in my opinion, as good as on broadway! I watched Priscilla Queen of the Desert onboard Norwegian Epic and it remains to this day my favourite show at sea, or on land.

On many of Norwegians ships there is food available 24 hours per day! If you have a spare minute and take a walk around a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ship you’re almost guaranteed to bump into something happening somewhere.

Norwegian have some of the biggest and most exciting cruise ships currently in operation. On the newer ships you’ll find go karts and laser tag courses. All of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet were designed for Norwegian apart from the Norwegian Spirit. The Norwegian Spirit just so happens to be my favourite!

Why Are Norwegian Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

Norwegian cruises are great for young cruisers because they are so lively, fun and relaxed. Many young cruisers, me included, love the lack of dress codes and the freestyle dining aspect.

I cruised with Norwegian as a child and as a teenage which I loved. The kids clubs were great, the ships were amazing and the freedom that cruising gave me to design my own vacation was amazing.

If you need a little more convincing, check out this post:

Are Norwegian Cruise Line Good for Young Cruisers? – 7 Reasons You NEED to Try Them

• A lot of things on Norwegian Cruise Line cruises cost extra which does mean that it’s possible to come away with a considerable bill. To learn about what is included in the cruise fare, check out this post:  Do Norwegian Cruise Line Cruises Include Meals? Included Food Guide .
• There is a lot of variety within the fleet. I personally love some of the older smaller ships but passengers expecting the big new ships may be disappointed by some of the fleet. Research should eliminate this potential problem though!
• The big ships can be quite busy and you have to book things like theatre shows ahead of time.

Who Would I Recommend a Norwegian Cruise to?

I’d recommend Norwegian to cruisers who want to have fun in a relaxed atmosphere. I’d also recommend the cruise line to families and to solo cruisers as Norwegian are really leading the way with their solo facilities.

Norwegian cruises are for people who don’t want to be told that they have to eat at a certain time or wear a certain thing to dinner. The entertainment does continue late into the night and cruisers can expect to be kept busy, if they want to be!

Royal Caribbean

Visit Royal Caribbean’s website here to learn more: Royal Caribbean*

• Price (****)

Royal Caribbean are one of the most well known cruise lines, recognisable by even those who haven’t cruised before. They are the owner of the current biggest cruise ships in the world and are consistently producing new cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean were founded in the 1960s and have always focused on cruises which are fun and relaxed.

What to Expect on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

The cruise line has 26 ships including many of the largest cruise ships in the world. Inside the ships you’ll find various ‘neighbourhoods’ some with large open areas which resemble parks and streets.

Royal Caribbean do focus heavily on the family and young cruiser market so potential cruisers should expect a number of children onboard. That said, with designated children’s clubs and areas the ships themselves don’t feel overcrowded.

Royal Caribbean do have some formal nights but the dress codes are more of a suggestion than enforced rules. Dining is both fixed and flexible with food being served around the clock. For more information on the dress codes, and photos from our Facebook Group members, check out this post: Royal Caribbean Dress Code: Photo Guide With Example

On the newer bigger cruise ships you’ll find things like sky diving simulators, flow riders, ice rinks, zip lines, rock climbing walls and aqua parks. The smaller older ships do not have all of the same adrenaline filled activities onboard but they are very much in the same style.

All of Royal Caribbeans cruise ships were designed for them and as a result they have some features which are distantly Royal Caribbean such as a bar around the funnel. Many of the older Royal Caribbean cruise ships now cruise with other smaller cruise lines.

Why Are Royal Caribbean Cruises Good For Young Cruisers?

Royal Caribbean cruises are great for young cruisers because the ships are so exciting that they become a destination in themselves. Royal Caribbean cruise worldwide and they offer cruises of varying lengths.

The food, service and entertainment on Royal Caribbean cruise ships is generally speaking pretty good and it is almost impossible to ever be bored onboard. Royal Caribbean cruises have one of the busiest schedules that you’ll find at sea.

• The ships can feel busy as there are many guests onboard.
• A lot of things cost extra on Royal Caribbean cruises so it is possible to come away with a big bill.
• Guests seeking a relaxing cruise may be disappointed as the experience onboard is quite lively.

Who Would I Recommend a Royal Caribbean Cruise to?

I’d recommend Royal Caribbean to cruisers who want to cruise on the most exciting ships at sea. Guests should be aware that the onboard experience is lively and fun with a lack of traditional cruise elements like strictly enforced dress codes.

I always recommend Royal Caribbean to families because the ships appeal to guests of all ages. To find out which other cruise lines I also recommend for families, check out our recommended cruise lines for families page here:

Best Cruise Lines For Families (Tried & Tested, Pros & Cons!)

Other Options

Celebrity cruises.

Another great option for young adults is Celebrity. I’ve not had enough experience with the line to really talk about them in detail but I have a number of friends who really love the cruise line.

Celebrity are a modern, trendy cruise line who focus on the adult market. Their food is some of the best that you’ll find at sea and the buffet is the best that I’ve ever been in. If you are a foodie, you’ll love Celebrity.

Disney Cruise Line

A obvious choice for young cruisers is Disney Cruise Line. I haven’t cruise with Disney Cruise Line yet, primarily due to the fact that they rarely cruise in Europe and due to the price which is higher than most other mainstream cruise lines. That said, if you like Disney you’ll love a Disney cruise.

Disney cruises aren’t just for children. There are plenty of adult only areas onboard and many guests cruise with Disney without any children. Disney characters can be seen frequently around the ship and the entertainment is what you would expect from the Disney brand.

Where To Next?

There is not a lot that I love more than going on a cruise, meeting new friends and realising that I paid considerably less that everybody else for the exact same cruise.

Finding and booking a cruise is no easy task. I’ve been able to cruise for as little as $50 per night and I regularly save over 60% compared to advertised brochure prices. You can do it too!

Start Today.

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Unveiling the Best Small Cruise Lines for Adults: Elevating Your Voyage with Luxury and Comfort

Are you dreaming of a relaxing getaway on the open sea, where every wave carries you to new adventures? Picture yourself on a serene cruise, surrounded by luxury and tailored experiences just for adults. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the perfect small cruise line that suits your preferences and desires?

Imagine avoiding crowded decks and noisy spaces, opting instead for intimate settings and personalized service. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top small cruise lines designed for adults, ensuring you find the ideal escape to unwind and explore in style. Get ready to discover the best-kept secrets of the seas, where tranquility and sophistication await your arrival.

Key Takeaways

• Small cruise lines offer intimate and personalized vacation experiences with a focus on quality over quantity.
• They enable visits to unique and off-the-beaten-path ports of call, providing opportunities to explore hidden gems and immerse in local cultures.
• Top-rated small cruise lines cater to adults seeking luxury, adventure, and rich cultural experiences, offering refined amenities and immersive activities.
• When choosing an adult-only cruise, prioritize onboard ambiance, amenities, adult-oriented excursions, and activities tailored to your interests.
• Booking early and understanding the inclusions and extras can help secure value, availability, and avoid unexpected expenses.
• Prioritize luxury and comfort by selecting the right vessel, exploring onboard amenities, indulging in culinary delights, engaging in sophisticated activities, and considering all-inclusive packages for a seamless cruise experience.

Exploring the Charm of Small Cruise Lines

Why small cruise ships appeal to adults.

Small cruise ships offer a more intimate and personalized vacation experience. With fewer passengers on board, you’ll enjoy a quieter and more relaxing atmosphere. These ships provide a sense of exclusivity, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of larger vessels. On a small cruise line, you can expect attentive service, well-curated activities, and a focus on quality over quantity. It’s like staying at a luxury boutique hotel while exploring the beauty of the sea.

Destination Focus: Unique Ports of Call

One of the significant advantages of small cruise lines is their ability to visit unique and off-the-beaten-path ports of call. Unlike large ships restricted to major ports, small cruise ships can dock at smaller, more secluded destinations. This means you get to explore hidden gems and immerse yourself in local cultures without the crowds. Imagine stepping off the ship onto a charming cobblestone street in a quaint village, far from the tourist masses. Small cruise lines offer you the chance to discover authentic destinations that big ships simply can’t reach.

Top-Rated Small Cruise Lines for Adults

Luxury meets intimacy: high-end options.

Indulge in the ultimate luxury experience with small cruise lines that cater to adults seeking a refined and intimate getaway. Imagine a floating oasis where personalized service is the norm, reminiscent of a high-end boutique hotel at sea. These top-rated small cruise lines offer sumptuous amenities, gourmet dining experiences, and upscale accommodations that rival the finest resorts. It’s like having a private retreat on the water with every need attended to promptly and elegantly.

Adventure on the Seas: Expedition Cruising

For the adventurous souls yearning for thrilling experiences on the open seas, expedition cruising with small cruise lines is the ideal choice. Embark on a journey filled with exciting excursions, wildlife encounters, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. These cruise lines focus on exploration, providing you with immersive adventures that bring you up close to nature’s wonders. Whether it’s cruising to polar regions or remote island destinations, expedition cruising offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Cultural Journeys: Enriching Experiences

Immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences with small cruise lines that emphasize destination immersion and authentic encounters. Traveling with these cruise lines allows you to delve deep into the heart of local communities, explore hidden gems, and savor unique cultural traditions. From workshops with local artisans to visits to ancient historical sites, each day brings a new opportunity to learn and appreciate the diversity of the world. These cruises are more than just vacations; they are transformative journeys that broaden your horizons and leave you with lasting memories.

What to Look for in an Adult-Only Cruise

Onboard ambiance and amenities.

When choosing an adult-only cruise, focus on onboard ambiance and amenities that cater to a mature audience. Look for small cruise lines that offer an intimate setting with luxurious accommodations. These ships often provide personalized services, creating a comfortable and exclusive atmosphere akin to a high-end boutique hotel. You’ll enjoy attentive staff, upscale dining options, and well-appointed cabins that enhance your overall cruising experience.

Adult-Oriented Excursions and Activities

For an enriching journey, seek adult-oriented excursions and activities that match your interests. Opt for cruise lines that provide a variety of sophisticated and engaging experiences tailored to adults. Whether you enjoy cultural immersions, adventure outings, or wellness activities, choose a cruise that offers a diverse range of excursions designed for adult travelers. From wine tasting sessions to historical tours, these activities add depth and enjoyment to your cruise vacation.

Booking Tips for Small Cruise Lines

Best time to book for value and availability.

When considering the best time to book a small cruise line for adults, aim to plan ahead. Booking early can often yield better value and secure availability on popular cruises. Early booking allows you to access discounts, promotions, and a wider selection of cabin choices. Additionally, booking during off-peak seasons, which vary based on destination, can also result in cost savings. Keep an eye out for promotional periods to maximize your savings while ensuring your preferred dates and itinerary are available.

Understanding the Inclusions and Extras

Before booking a small cruise line tailored for adults, make sure you understand what is included in the price and what extra costs you might incur. Typically, the fare covers accommodations, meals, onboard activities, and entertainment. However, certain amenities like specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, spa services, and gratuities may require additional payments. Familiarize yourself with the inclusions and extras to budget appropriately for your cruise experience. It’s advisable to check the cruise line’s policies regarding additional fees to avoid unexpected expenses during your trip.

Navigating the Seas of Luxury and Comfort

When considering which small cruise line to choose for your next adult-oriented voyage, it’s essential to prioritize luxury and comfort. Small cruise lines excel in providing personalized experiences akin to upscale boutique hotels, ensuring an intimate and refined setting for your journey. Here’s how you can navigate the seas of luxury and comfort effortlessly:

Selecting the Right Vessel

Embarking on an adult-only cruise means being immersed in an environment tailored to your preferences. Opt for small cruise lines that offer luxurious accommodations, attentive service, and upscale dining options. These features set the stage for a comfortable and sophisticated voyage filled with pampering and relaxation.

Exploring Onboard Amenities

Small cruise lines for adults often boast a range of amenities designed exclusively for your enjoyment. From spa facilities and fitness centers to adult-oriented activities and entertainment, these cruises cater to your every need. Whether you seek tranquility or excitement, you’ll find onboard offerings that enhance your overall experience.

Indulging in Culinary Delights

One of the highlights of cruising on smaller ships is the exquisite dining options available. With a focus on quality and creativity, adult-oriented cruise lines serve up a variety of culinary delights to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy gourmet meals prepared by talented chefs, complemented by fine wines and impeccable service.

Engaging in Sophisticated Activities

Small cruise lines prioritize providing sophisticated and enriching activities for their adult guests. Whether it’s a wine tasting event, a cultural workshop, a live music performance, or a leisurely afternoon tea, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to engage in activities that match your interests and preferences.

Embracing the All-inclusive Experience

To fully immerse yourself in luxury and comfort during your cruise, consider the benefits of an all-inclusive package. Many small cruise lines offer inclusive amenities, such as gratuities, specialty dining, and select beverages, ensuring a hassle-free and indulgent experience without unexpected additional expenses.

Navigating the seas of luxury and comfort on small cruise lines designed for adults is a delightful journey that promises relaxation, indulgence, and unforgettable moments. By choosing the right vessel, exploring onboard amenities, savoring culinary delights, indulging in sophisticated activities, and embracing the all-inclusive experience, you’ll elevate your cruise experience to new heights of luxury and comfort.

You’ve explored the allure of small cruise lines designed for adults, offering tailored experiences akin to luxury boutique hotels at sea. From personalized amenities to adult-focused excursions, these cruises cater to your desire for intimacy, luxury, and sophistication. By choosing the right vessel and indulging in upscale dining and activities, you can enhance your voyage with comfort and elegance. Embrace the all-inclusive experience for a seamless and indulgent journey that elevates your cruise to a new level of relaxation and sophistication. Choose a small cruise line that aligns with your preferences and embark on a refined adult-only adventure at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes small cruise lines tailored for adults appealing.

Small cruise lines tailored for adults offer personalized experiences similar to luxury boutique hotels at sea. These cruises prioritize intimate settings, luxurious accommodations, attentive service, upscale dining, and sophisticated activities.

What factors should I consider when selecting adult-only cruises?

When choosing adult-only cruises, consider amenities tailored for adults, adult-oriented excursions, intimate settings, luxurious accommodations, attentive service, upscale dining, and sophisticated activities.

How can I navigate luxury and comfort on small cruise lines?

To navigate luxury and comfort on small cruise lines, focus on selecting the right vessel, exploring onboard amenities, indulging in culinary delights, engaging in sophisticated activities, and embracing the all-inclusive experience for a seamless and indulgent voyage.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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