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The Best Cruises For Adults

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Adult-oriented cruises offer the perfect escape from daily life, combining luxury, adventure, and relaxation in a child-free environment. Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat or a vibrant party atmosphere, numerous options are available tailored to adult preferences. This guide explores the best adult cruises, focusing on luxury, adventure, entertainment, and specialized themes to help you make an informed decision.

On This Page:

  1. Top Cruise Lines for Adults
  2. Best Cruises for Young Adults
  3. Best Cruises for Older Adults
  4. Adventure on Your Next Adult Only Cruise

Top Cruise Lines for Adults

Luxury and Comfort

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Opulent library on Regent Seven Seas Navigator with cozy sofas, a chandelier, and bookshelves, offering a tranquil reading space.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is well-known for its complete and luxurious offerings, making it an excellent choice for adults with unmatched style. Its mostly-adult occupied fleet includes the Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Splendor, Seven Seas Voyager, and the Seven Seas Grandeur, each of which offers grand facilities like spacious rooms constructed with top-quality materials like Carrera marble, and luxuries like Versace tableware. The Seven Seas Explorer alone flaunts 158 crystal chandeliers, showcasing luxury in every detail.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises incorporates a variety of superior services into its packages, ensuring a truly serene experience. Gratuities, beverages (mini bars included), shore trips, transfer services, dining experiences, WiFi, and airfare are often incorporated into the total cost.

The destinations they sail to are spread worldwide, from Alaska's frosty scenery to Europe's cultural depth to the magnificent beaches in Australia and New Zealand. This comprehensive package makes Regent Seven Seas one of the best cruise lines for adults seeking comfort and enrichment.

Cunard Line

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Cunard Line is well known for its sophisticated elegance and luxury rooms, making it a top line for adults who enjoy a classy onboard atmosphere. The mainly-adult occupied fleet, including the Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria, provides traditional afternoon tea, high-quality dining, and large rooms with a timeless appeal.

Sit back and enjoy yourself by taking advantage of the line's distinct White Star Service, ballroom dancing, and Cunard Insights educational programs, which teach various topics, from history to astronomy.

Cunard's travel destinations span transatlantic crossings, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Whether you wish to cross the transatlantic on the Queen Mary 2 or explore the Mediterranean on the Queen Victoria, your trip is sure to be as enriching as the final destination.

Collectively, this blend of luxury, culture, and adventure positions Cunard among the best cruise lines for older adults and those seeking a tranquil yet stimulating voyage.

Adventure and Exploration

Azamara Cruises

Mosaic Cafe on Azamara Pursuit, serving gourmet coffee and pastries. Elegant cafe setting with ocean views and comfortable seating.

Azamara is known for its deep, engaging experiences in various locations, unique travel routes, and culturally immersive shore trips. The Azamara fleet, which includes ships like the Azamara Journey, Pursuit, Quest, and Onward, strongly emphasizes providing prolonged stays and overnight stops at ports, allowing passengers the time they need to explore each stop thoroughly.

Azamara packages include meals, chosen spirits, wine, beer, tips, and 24-hour room service, making it a great value option for adults.

Azamara's travel routes include diverse places like Europe, Asia, South America, the Caribbean, and Africa. Special occasions such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Carnival in Rio are unique experiences that offer more than traditional tourist activities.

This commitment to immersive travel experiences positions Azamara as one of the best cruise lines for young adults.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises' ship putting green, serene sea backdrop, luxury golf at sea experience.

Oceania Cruises is well-known for its intensive destination itineraries, which attract adults interested in thorough exploration and exceptional cuisine. The fleet includes the Insignia, Marina, Nautica, Regatta, Riviera, and Sirena and offers trips that concentrate on top-quality food at sea, culture-rich experiences, and activities like mini golf. Onboard passengers can enjoy world-class meals, WiFi, and several enrichment programs.

The cruise line's Culinary Center provides practical cooking classes, while the Artist Loft conducts creative workshops by skilled resident artists.

With destinations stretching across Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia/New Zealand, Oceania allows travelers to deeply explore interesting locations around the globe.

This focus on culinary and cultural experiences makes Oceania a great choice for those scouting the best cruise line for adults looking to combine gourmet dining with adventure.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Virgin Voyages

Futuristic casino on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady, lined with vibrant slot machines and neon lights.

Virgin Voyages has transformed the adventure at sea by presenting sparkling nightlife, live shows, and themed events made particularly for grownups. Its fleet, namely the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady, is devoted primarily to adults. This ensures a high-spirited and classy environment on board. You can benefit from various amenities, such as alcoholic beverages, internet service, tips, fitness instruction, and food served in all restaurants.

Virgin Voyages is distinguished by special features like the RockStar Quarters, the "Shake for Champagne" option, health-focused zones, Redemption Spa, and a tattoo shop.

The cruise line offers journeys across the Atlantic to various destinations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and Morocco.

The overall focus on entertainment and nightlife makes Virgin one of the best cruise lines for young adults looking to party and enjoy a modern, chic atmosphere.

Norwegian Cruise Line

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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is famous for its lively and animated atmosphere. This makes it a top choice for adult holidaymakers, with scores of nighttime and group events. The line's fleet includes the Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian, and Norwegian Gem. Each of these vessels presents a wide array of entertainment options, including onboard clubs, Broadway-like performances, and assorted dining options.

NCL also includes specialty food services, WiFi access, and productions such as Beetlejuice The Musical, greatly enriching the cruise experience. Moreover, Norwegian provides remarkable thermal spas and delivers voyages to unique travel routes. Its destinations span various global locations, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Asia.

Adults-only areas like Spice H2O provide a tranquil escape within the vibrant atmosphere, making Norwegian one of the best adult only cruise lines for those looking to blend relaxation with excitement.

Best Cruises for Young Adults

Party Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Aft restaurant on Carnival Horizon, showcasing warm wood tones and expansive ocean views.

Carnival Cruise Line is well-known for its exciting and energetic environment. It's considered one of the top cruise lines for young adults who want to participate in social events and entertainment. Ships like the Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Panorama have much to offer, including nightclubs, live music, themed parties, and comedy clubs.

Services such as meals, entertainment, and activities on the ship are included, ensuring you have everything you need for an enjoyable cruise.

Carnival offers various routes in sought-after destinations such as the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and Hawaii.

Together, the vibrant onboard environment and exciting shore excursions make Carnival a top choice for those looking for the best cruise ship for adults on a party-centric vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Luxurious Haven Courtyard pool area on Norwegian Breakaway, with plush loungers, tranquil pool, and retractable roof for an exclusive retreat.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers services to young adults, focusing on high-energy activities and plenty of after-dark options. Ships, including the Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, provide deck parties, nightly entertainment venues, multiple group events, and Broadway-style shows to keep everyone entertained.

The cruise line includes fine dining options, Wifi access, and other engaging activities to ensure complete satisfaction with the cruise experience. NCL runs its cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, and Hawaii, allowing you to experience both adventurous escapades and relaxed getaways.

This combination of lively onboard activities and diverse destinations makes Norwegian one of the best party cruises for young adults.

All-Inclusive Options

Virgin Voyages

Resilient Lady's Tune-Up spa offers a tranquil manicure experience with ocean views, merging relaxation with beauty treatments.

Virgin Voyages stands out as an all-inclusive cruise line designed specifically for adults. With a fleet that includes the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady, Virgin Voyages offers a hassle-free experience with inclusions such as alcoholic drinks, WiFi, gratuities, meals, and fitness classes.

This comprehensive package makes Virgin Voyages one of the best all-inclusive cruise lines for adults.

The ships feature multiple dining options, wellness programs, and vibrant nightlife, ensuring something for everyone. Destinations include the Caribbean, Europe, and trans-Atlantic crossings, providing a variety of exciting itineraries.

Virgin's focus on creating a dynamic and modern cruise experience makes its entire fleet worthy of ‘Best cruise for adults only.’

MSC Cruises

Shine Bar on MSC Seaside

MSC Cruises offers all-inclusive plans, attracting young adults interested in adventure and ease. Ships such as the MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia feature meals, shows, and WiFi (available in selected plans), creating a smooth holiday experience. Their travel destinations are the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and South America, presenting a variety of routes for voyagers.

Moreover, MSC Cruises fosters an exciting and lively atmosphere through unique features such as water parks and sports centers. The combination of all-inclusive packages and exciting activities makes MSC one of the best all-inclusive cruise lines for adults.

Best Cruises for Older Adults

Relaxation and Serenity

Viking Ocean Cruises

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Viking Ocean Cruises centers itself around relaxation and cultural growth, making it a top-choice cruise line for seniors. The fleet includes ships such as the Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky, Viking Orion, Viking Jupiter, Viking Venus, Viking Mars, and Viking Neptune. These ships are designed to offer a calm and elegant environment and are strictly adult-only.

Plenty of amenities are provided, including shore trips in every port, WiFi, meals, and wine/beer/soda with lunch and dinner to complete an excellent journey.

Viking reaches destinations in Europe, Asia, Australia, and Alaska, providing plenty of itineraries to enrich one's experiences.

Quiet lounges, enrichment programs, and serene spa facilities onboard create a tranquil atmosphere, making Viking a line with some of the best all adults cruises.

Holland America Line

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Holland America Line offers a calm and sophisticated atmosphere with activities and amenities tailored for older adults. The fleet includes ships like the Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Eurodam, Noordam, Rotterdam, Zuiderdam, and Westerdam, all providing a blend of luxury and relaxation. Inclusions such as meals, entertainment, and WiFi (in some packages) further ensure that travelers will have a seamless experience.

Holland America's itineraries cover destinations like Alaska, Europe, Asia, and South America, offering diverse experiences.

Special features like the Culinary Arts Center, digital workshops, and serene spa facilities create a refined and relaxing environment, making Holland America one of the best adult only cruises.

Food and Wine Themed Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

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Celebrity Cruises offers excellent food and beverage experiences, making it a favorite amongst adults who appreciate gastronomic delights and wine-tasting events. The cruising company stands out with ships such as the Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Reflection, all of which host premier dining. Gourmet dishes, wine-sampling activities, and trips to the shore all contribute to a unique and unforgettable culinary adventure.

Celebrity Cruises charters its course to various destinations, including Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, and South America, ensuring various cultural opportunities.

With features like wine pairing dinners and culinary classes, Celebrity Cruises is perfect for food and wine enthusiasts, making it a line offering some of the best cruise ships for adults seeking a gourmet experience.

Princess Cruises

Elegant Crown Grill on Royal Princess, with its rich wooden decor and plush green seating, offering a fine dining experience.

Princess Cruises offers themed voyages centered on high-quality food and wines. The fleet includes vessels like the Regal Princess, Royal Princess, Sky Princess, and Majestic Princess.

Each offers unique dining experiences, wine, and cooking shows. Services, including food, entertainment, and wine sampling programs, provide a complete experience that will leave you fully satisfied.

Princess Cruises travels to locations such as Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, and Alaska, enabling varied food-related experiences.

Princess Cruises' focus on gourmet experiences and fine wines makes it one of the best adult cruise lines for those interested in themed culinary voyages.

Wellness Cruises

Seabourn Cruise Line

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Seabourn provides a high-end experience with luxurious comforts, high-quality food, and an individualized experience, making it a top choice for adults seeking an exceptional vacation.

The Seabourn Encore, Odyssey, Ovation, Quest, Sojourn, Pursuit, and Venture are all geared toward sophisticated travelers with high standards. On these ships, you can access various amenities, such as a well-stocked in-suite bar, high-quality dining options, and free WiFi as part of your cruise package.

The "Seabourn Conversations" educational program, beach get-togethers featuring Caviar in the Surf party, and spa and wellness sessions from Dr. Andrew Weil make the cruising experience extra special.

Seabourn offers an exciting yet comfortable getaway with journey options from the Amazon and the Northwest Passage, Europe, Australia, and the South Pacific. The intimate size of their ships ensures a more personalized and serene experience, making it a line offering some of the best cruises for adults only.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Tranquil spa treatment room on Regent Seven Seas Navigator with a therapist preparing for a massage session, featuring soft natural light and elegant decor.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is recognized for its health-focused cruises aiming to refresh and restore passengers. Their fleet comprises the Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator, Sevenendor, and Seven Seas Voyager. These cruise ships are packed with features like wellness tours, spa amenities, and a selection of nutritious meals. A well-rounded health experience is delivered to the passengers through wellness programs, spa treatments, high-quality meals, and shore excursions.

The combination of luxurious amenities and wellness programs make Regent Seven Seas one of the best adults only cruises for a rejuvenating journey.

Adventure on Your Next Adult Only Cruise

Choosing the right cruise ship is crucial for a satisfying vacation. The mentioned ships and cruise lines offer excellent experiences for adults seeking luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're a young adult looking for vibrant nightlife or an older adult seeking a serene retreat, there's a perfect cruise waiting for you. Take the next step towards your dream vacation by booking through Cruisebound today.

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