Looking for a cruise where cocktails flow, DJ beats pump, and there’s zero kiddie chaos in sight? The funnest adult cruises are the ultimate playground at sea, combining late-night parties with sophisticated relaxation. But it’s not just about dancing till dawn—it’s also about enjoying chic lounges, gourmet dining, luxury spas, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, all in a blissfully child-free environment.
Booking a fun adult cruise is your ticket to an unforgettable, grownup getaway. No need to share space with rowdy kids—the funnest adult cruises offer tranquil poolside retreats, vibrant nightlife, and elegant dining, all in kid-free zones.
To help you plan your dream cruise, I’ve gathered tips from seasoned cruisers, travel blogs, and forums to guide you to the best ships for ultimate vacation vibes. Ready for a kid-free adventure? Keep reading to find the best child-free cruise experiences.
Cruise Lines Offering the Ultimate Adult-Only Fun and Relaxation
When it comes to adult-only cruising, some cruise lines have truly mastered the art of blending fun with sophistication. Whether it’s the excitement of vibrant nightlife or the calm of a serene, kid-free poolside retreat, these cruise lines have something special for every grownup traveler.
For a full-on child-free adventure, cruise lines like Virgin Voyages and Viking Cruises deliver an atmosphere completely free of under-18s, while others offer exclusive adult-only spaces on family-friendly ships, letting you escape the chaos and enjoy your vacation your way.
The cruise lines below have something special for every grownup traveler. Let’s dive into what makes each one stand out, offering you an expert look at their individual charm based on firsthand experiences and insider tips.
Virgin Voyages: Adult-only cruise line
Virgin Voyages isn’t just a cruise—it’s an experience crafted for the young at heart, where the party doesn’t stop until the early morning.
Cruisers rave about the high-energy nightlife, with live DJ sets, immersive entertainment, and themed events that are impossible to resist. But Virgin is more than just a party at sea.
As one seasoned cruiser told me, “It’s a sophisticated mix of fun and relaxation. There’s an upscale, modern vibe onboard, from the stylish decor to the curated dining options.” It’s perfect for those who want to blend luxury with late-night excitement.
Viking Cruises: Elegant cruise line for adults only
For those seeking a quieter, more refined atmosphere, Viking Cruises is the ultimate kid-free retreat.
Imagine yourself on a luxurious, boutique-style ship with no casinos, no loud distractions—just sophisticated dining, serene lounges, and cultural enrichment.
“Cruising with Viking is like staying in an elegant hotel where every detail is taken care of,” a frequent cruiser shared. With Viking, it’s all about a seamless, relaxing experience, without a single under-18 in sight.
P&O Cruises: Two adult-only ships for grownup fun and relaxation
British cruise line P&O caters to adults with two ships dedicated to kid-free cruising: Aurora and Arcadia. These ships offer a sophisticated escape, where specialty dining, cabaret shows, and live music set the tone for an elegant voyage.
One cruiser described the Aurora as a “perfect retreat for those looking to unwind without kiddie distractions,” noting the relaxed, yet fun atmosphere onboard. Whether you’re lounging by one of the three pools or catching a cabaret performance, P&O’s adult-only ships deliver a charming and refined escape.
Royal Caribbean: Adventure meets fun relaxation for grownups
Royal Caribbean might be known for its family-friendly adventures, but its adult-exclusive areas, like the Solarium, are a hidden gem.
A guest once told me the Solarium is a “kid-free sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the cruise crowds.”
Whether you want to enjoy panoramic ocean views or sip cocktails in peace, Royal Caribbean’s adult zones ensure you get your relaxation, even on their livelier ships.
Celebrity Cruises: Deluxe escapes in exclusive adult-only spaces
Celebrity cruise ships take luxury to another level with The Retreat. It’s a private ship-within-a-ship zone where you enjoy exclusive high-end amenities.
Imagine luxury sailing with a private concierge, sundeck, pool, and fine dining venues. I heard firsthand from someone who’d booked it that it “felt like a five-star resort on the water, completely separated from the other passengers.”
Even if you cannot afford The Retreat, I’ve found when reading cruise forums that Celebrity cruises attract the fewest families, so there are never many kids on board. One cruiser commented, “It has a more grownup atmosphere than Royal and NCL.”
Carnival Cruise Line: High-energy fun with kid-free retreats
Carnival may be famous for its lively, family-centric cruises, but its adult-only retreat, Serenity, offers a peaceful break from the excitement.
Whether you’re with kids or simply looking for an escape, Serenity provides an oasis of calm. “The Serenity deck was my go-to spot,” one cruiser said. “It fills up fast, but it’s the best place to unwind with a drink and soak in the views without any interruptions.”
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Sophisticated vibes at sea
NCL does an excellent job of balancing family fun with adult-exclusive spaces. Spice H2O is a favorite among guests, offering a hip, outdoor bar scene where you can enjoy sunbathing or unwinding in a child-free zone.
After returning from Spice H2O, a fellow passenger said, “It’s the perfect spot to unwind without kids around.”
For those looking for an even more exclusive experience, Vibe (also called Posh on some ships) offers a private club atmosphere, but access is limited and paid. “It felt like a secret VIP club, complete with a relaxed, upscale feel,” said a cruiser who frequented the space.
Azamara Cruise Ships: Upscale, adult-oriented voyages
Although Azamara isn’t an adult-only line, you’ll find few children on board. These smaller, upscale ships lack kids’ clubs or activities designed for under-18s, making them ideal for those seeking tranquility. “It’s like stepping into a quiet, boutique retreat,” one cruiser shared.
The vibe is calm, with an emphasis on sophisticated relaxation, elegant lounges, and immersive experiences. If you’re after a quieter journey without the usual distractions, Azamara could be your perfect match.
Oceania Cruises: Adult-oriented cruises for elegant relaxation
Oceania Cruises caters to an adult audience, with smaller ships and a focus on elegant experiences. There’s a strong emphasis on gourmet cuisine, relaxing in peaceful surroundings, and fewer families. “Oceania is the go-to for foodies and those who want a laid-back, refined cruise experience,” one guest told me. With fewer kids on board and no family-focused activities, it’s the ideal line for anyone looking to unwind in a quiet, luxurious environment.
Vibrant Nightlife and Party Cruises for Adults
When the sun sets, adult-only cruises transform into a playground of vibrant energy, where the party is just getting started. From open-air dance floors to chic nightclubs, these ships pulse with life after dark, offering a mix of electric beats, sophisticated cocktails, and endless fun. If you’re looking for an unforgettable night at sea, these cruises deliver the perfect blend of adventure and excitement.
Virgin Voyages is at the forefront of late-night thrills, with its iconic Scarlet Night party leading the charge. Imagine the entire ship draped in red, live music filling the air, pop-up performances surprising you at every turn, and spontaneous karaoke and pool parties under the stars. As one cruiser put it, “It’s a wild, unforgettable experience that feels like an epic festival at sea.”
Carnival Cruises is known for cranking up the energy as night falls, with atrium parties and the lively Liquid Lounge drawing in guests ready to dance. One cruiser described the vibe as “electric—like stepping into a club where everyone’s having the time of their lives. The beats are impossible to resist.”
For those who prefer a unique twist, Celebrity Cruises offers silent discos that have become a fan favorite. You can groove to your own rhythm with headphones while surrounded by fellow cruisers enjoying their private soundtrack. “At first, I wasn’t sure,” one guest shared, “but after a few minutes, I was hooked. It’s so much fun watching people dance to music only they can hear.”
Even more upscale lines like NCL and MSC Cruises dive into the late-night scene. After a night aboard MSC, one couple told me, “The Miami-inspired nightclub felt like being in South Beach—except we were dancing under the stars, with the ocean around us.”
Whether you’re dancing until dawn or enjoying a cocktail while watching the stars, adult-only cruises know how to turn the night into an adventure you won’t forget.
Exclusive Fine Dining Onboard
When you book one of the funnest adult cruises, you’re not just signing up for epic parties—you’re also stepping into a world of culinary indulgence. These cruise ships are like floating luxury resorts, offering dining experiences that rival the best five-star restaurants on land. If you’re a foodie with a taste for adventure, the fine dining onboard will be a highlight of your trip.
Oceania Cruises leads the pack for exquisite dining at sea. Food lovers consistently praise Jacques Pépin’s onboard restaurant, where the experience feels like Michelin-star dining every night. “It’s like dining at the finest restaurant, with new surprises every evening,” said one cruiser. If you’re looking for luxury and gourmet indulgence, Oceania sets the bar high.
Celebrity Cruises is another top contender, with 32 dining venues, including menus by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher. “It’s like a culinary tour around the world,” shared one guest. From sushi to French-inspired cuisine, each meal is an adventure, making Celebrity a foodie’s dream.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) brings a fun twist to fine dining. Each of its specialty restaurants offers something different, with distinct atmospheres that make every meal feel like a new experience. “Every restaurant felt like a hidden gem, and the food was always five-star quality,” one cruiser told me, emphasizing how NCL keeps things exciting and delicious.
Even Viking Cruises knows how to impress with regional-inspired dishes and cruise classics like lobster and steak. “Dining on Viking is part of the journey,” one guest remarked, appreciating the blend of local flavors and traditional favorites.
Whether you’re searching for unforgettable party vibes or elegant dining under the stars, these adult-only cruises make sure every meal is a delicious part of the adventure.
Ultimate Luxury and Relaxation: The Best Adult-Oriented Cruise Experiences
Adult-only areas on cruise ships are all about creating a serene, sophisticated atmosphere where relaxation is the priority. Say goodbye to splashy pools and noisy kids, and instead, imagine yourself indulging in deep tissue massages, world-class spa treatments, and tranquil retreats that make every moment feel like pure luxury.
When it comes to luxury spa and wellness experiences, Viking Cruises and Celebrity Cruises set the gold standard. A cruiser told me that Viking’s LivNordic Spa and thermal suite were “some of the most serene spas they’ve experienced at sea.” With its Scandinavian-inspired sauna, steam rooms, and snow grotto, the spa offers an authentic Nordic wellness experience that mimics the way Swedes and Finns unwind.
Celebrity Cruises also shines in the spa department. One guest told me buying a spa pass was “worth every cent,” raving about the cutting-edge treatments, zero-gravity beds, whirlpools, and steam room complex. The modern and luxurious setting allows guests to fully immerse themselves in relaxation.
For those seeking top-tier pampering, luxury lines like Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent Seven Seas deliver unparalleled spa experiences. A friend who experienced the Serene Spa on Regent described it as “breathtaking,” with marble floors, a stunning infinity pool, steam rooms, and even a cold room. And the best part? There’s no additional charge for using their thermal suite, which makes the experience even more indulgent.
Adventure and Activity-Oriented Cruises for Adult Travelers
Finding adult-oriented onshore adventures is the best way to immerse yourself in local culture. While kids may enjoy visiting a sea life center or wildlife park or building sandcastles at the beach, you may want a more immersive experience like hiking, kayaking, or safari tours. Or what about staying on board and enjoying the best activities cruise ships offer?
I’ve discovered from online forums that Windstar Cruise and Hurtigruten Expedition cruises offer superb adult-oriented shore excursions. One cruiser mentioned that Windstar Cruise excursions in the Mediterranean are always 5-star experiences. Another passenger raved about kayaking in fjords in Alaska and hiking on a glacier during a Hurtigruten expedition.
If adrenaline-fueled activities are your thing, some Royal Caribbean ships have skydiving at sea, the FlowRider Surf Simulator, and a walkway suspended over the ocean. Or what about NCL’s The Plank, ziplining above the sea, Carnival’s Bolt rollercoaster, or MSC’s Cliffhanger?
One friend told me about a cruise he took on a SeaDream boat. The small luxury ship had a retractable marina, which included water skis, Laser sailboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Another cruiser raved about the waterslide that deposits you in the sea. They had the time of their life without having to book shore excursions.
Some of the most popular adult-only cruises in the Mediterranean are wine-tasting tours. These trips take guests to vineyards in Greece, Portugal, Spain, and France to learn about the winemaking process. A guest on a Silversea cruise said, “The wine tastings were a highlight, and the sommeliers’ expertise and passion made each session engaging and educational.”
Romantic Getaways at Sea: Cruises Made for Couples
Couples can enjoy fun and relaxation on romantic cruises with no kids onboard. Of course, Viking Cruises are adults-only, but Celebrity Cruises cater to a mature crowd and don’t attract families. Azamara, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Celebrity Cruises rarely have under-18s onboard. They are ideal for enjoying an intimate voyage to exotic locations.
One couple shared about a Celebrity cruise voyage: “We wanted a romantic getaway, and the ship had the perfect blend of sophistication and relaxation, where we could really unwind and enjoy each other’s company.”
Another couple said about their romantic cruise with Seabourn: “The attention to detail, intimate ship, candlelit dinners, and champagne in the cabin created a wonderful romantic ambiance.” Also, a cruiser mentioned, “Being on an Azamara ship feels like a private getaway—our honeymoon cruise was magical.”
Unforgettable Entertainment and Enrichment Adventures on Adult-Oriented Cruises
Adult-oriented cruises offer a perfect blend of fun-filled entertainment and enriching activities, ensuring there’s something for every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re into edgy comedy, Broadway-style performances, or educational talks, these cruises deliver unforgettable experiences designed to entertain and enlighten.
Carnival Cruises is a top contender when it comes to comedy, boasting over 20,000 shows annually. Their evening performances are strictly for adults, filled with risqué jokes and R-rated language that keep the audience laughing nonstop. “It was a non-stop laugh-fest,” a friend shared after attending a show, proving that Carnival knows how to deliver adult comedy that’s both hilarious and daring.
If it’s live game shows you’re interested in, Royal Caribbean has rowdy shows like Battle of the Sexes, Quest, and Love and Marriage. Do you want to enjoy a Broadway show? Most cruisers recommend Princess Cruises or Royal Caribbean. One cruiser noted, “Mamma Mia was an unforgettable experience, as good as any Broadway show I’ve seen.”
If you’re looking to feed your mind while at sea, Celebrity Cruises stands out for its enrichment activities. Their lectures, described by one guest as “engaging and intellectually stimulating,” add an educational layer to the cruising experience, perfect for those seeking to learn something new.
Smaller luxury lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Windstar offer even more immersive enrichment experiences. On Silversea, the SALT program is a must-try for food lovers, allowing guests to explore global cuisine with hands-on experiences. One traveler shared, “It’s like exploring the world one dish at a time.”
Epic Fun on Budget-Friendly Fun Cruises that Won’t Break the Bank
Cruising on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun, relaxation, or luxury. It’s possible to find fun adult-oriented cruises without breaking the bank. In fact, cruising is sometimes better value because food, accommodation, and entertainment are included in the cruise price. You can also find great pre-cruise discounts on drinks packages, spa treatments, and shore excursions.
The consensus among adult cruisers is that Virgin Voyages is the best value for money if you don’t want families with kids on board. The basic cruise fares include meals, free WiFi, gratuities, and fitness classes. Compared to Viking Ocean Cruises, Virgin is cheaper. One cruiser noted it’s “the best cruise line for a truly adult-only experience.”
Let me share some personal experiences and travel hacks I picked up online.
I’ve always found the cheapest cruise deals by traveling during the off-peak season. Or, if you’re super organized, book as soon as sailings are open for sale. One cruiser said they snagged an incredible deal by booking their cruise during a “wave season” sale. “It’s probably the best time of year to score big discounts,” they told me.
Other ideas for cheap, adult-centric cruises include booking a repositioning cruise, sailing on older ships, or using a travel agent to find the best prices and itineraries.
A Takeaway: Finding Cruise Vacations for Adventurous Adults
Whether you’re into late-night parties, adrenaline-packed adventures, or looking for a romantic escape, there’s a cruise for you. Or maybe you want to unwind at sea at your own pace, relaxing on quiet decks and enjoying the sun and ocean breeze. It’s possible to enjoy fun-filled, relaxing voyages without the distractions of rowdy kids.
What are you waiting for? Book early to secure the best rates on your ultimate adult-only cruise adventure, where fun and relaxation await!
Want to keep exploring unique cruise experiences? Check out Nude Cruises: Secrets from Onboard Guests on Clothing-Optional Cruises, find out How to Avoid Crowds on Busy Cruise Ships, or discover The Best Luxury Small Cruise Ships at Sea to plan your next adventure!
