Prefer Not to Cruise with Kids? Explore These Adult-Centric Cruise Ships

Whether you're a parent or an aunt or uncle, and regardless of your feelings about children, the allure of a serene cruise getaway without young ones can be quite enticing. That's where adults-only cruises come into play.

In the late 1990s, Torstein Hagen founded Viking River Cruises, now the largest river cruise operator in Europe, specifically catering to adults with a strict no-kids policy. This approach continues as the company expands into ocean cruises and expedition vessels.

Similarly, British billionaire Richard Branson introduced the first ship of his Virgin Voyages brand three years ago, enforcing a no-children under 18 rule on board. The cruise line even playfully showcased ads featuring unhappy kids who couldn't join the adult fun.

While most major cruise lines don't have a complete ban on those under 18, there are strategies travelers can employ to minimize the presence of children on their voyage.

To truly evade children, avoid cruising during school breaks (like spring break, summer, or winter holidays), choose itineraries longer than two weeks (which tend to deter family crowds—how about a world cruise?), or consider an ultra-luxurious cruise that may require pricey airfare—most families aren't keen on splurging for an extravagant trip for their kids.

Additionally, the smaller the ship—and the fewer amenities geared towards children (like kids clubs and water slides)—the less likely you are to encounter young passengers. Here are our top recommendations for adult-oriented cruises.

Viking

Whether you choose to sail with Viking on one of its many 190-passenger river cruise vessels in Europe, the 930-passenger ocean cruise ships circling the globe, or the two 378-passenger expedition ships, you’ll enjoy a meticulously crafted cruising experience designed exclusively for adults. Guests must be 18 or older to partake in the numerous perks included in the all-inclusive fares, which feature shore excursions at every port, complimentary wine and beer, all meals (including various dining options and nightly seafood buffets), insightful lectures from historians and experts, as well as Nordic spas equipped with hot saunas, steam rooms, and a refreshing snow grotto.

To book: Viking’s 15-day Grand European Tour journeys from Amsterdam to Budapest along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, starting at $4,999 per person.

Virgin Voyages

Adult-only cruises from Virgin Voyages set sail on four 2,770-passenger ships that navigate the Caribbean, Europe, and the South Pacific. The vibe on board is edgy and playful, infused with both subtle and overt sexual innuendos, creating a uniquely adult atmosphere unlike anything the cruise industry has ever seen. Prepare for plenty of daytime drinking, vibrant nightlife, and entertainment, alongside unique offerings like a tattoo parlor and gourmet cuisine, which includes a spectacular molecular dining experience and the quirky “Lick Me Till . . . Ice Cream” shop (at no extra charge)—all amidst wellness retreats featuring mud rooms and ’80s-inspired aerobics classes for a complete detox and retox experience with Virgin.

To book: Virgin’s 4-night Fire & Sunset Soirées cruise departs from Miami to Key West and then to Virgin’s private Beach Club at Bimini in the Bahamas, starting at $1,564 for two guests.

Azamara Cruises

This upscale cruise line features four intimate ships that, while not child-free, typically attract seasoned couples aged 50 and above, who enjoy exploring the world from the comfort of a floating boutique hotel. The ambiance on Azamara cruises is both friendly and elegant, accommodating a maximum of 704 guests. Onboard, you'll find a library with a cozy faux fireplace, an upscale steakhouse for a fine dining experience, and a welcoming “living room” perfect for drinks and socializing.

The itineraries emphasize maximizing time in port with a focus on cultural immersion, offering small group shore excursions and exclusive “AzAmazing” experiences, such as complimentary private acrobatic performances in Monaco. Additionally, special golf cruises in collaboration with PerryGolf feature rounds at renowned courses like Ireland’s Royal Portrush.

To book: Join the 690-passenger Azamara Journey for a 10-night Croatia Intensive Voyage, starting at $2,219 per person.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

With a fleet of ships accommodating 490 to 750 passengers, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ranks among the priciest cruise lines and claims to be “the world’s most luxurious cruise line.” This reputation is supported by features such as Carrara marble accents, crystal chandeliers, extravagant suites, and impressive art collections worth millions. The fares cover a wide range of shore excursions, including a mud bath experience in Lautoka, Fiji, as well as premium wines, spirits, and business-class international airfare. Although the line welcomes families during holidays and summer cruises in Alaska, not everyone is willing to invest in experiences that might not resonate with children.

To book: An 11-night journey from Miami to the Caribbean aboard the 496-passenger Seven Seas Navigator starts at $5,699 for two guests.

Silversea Cruises

Featuring elegant ships, a commitment to elevating cuisine and beverages as cultural experiences, and attentive butlers for all guests, Silversea attracts affluent adult travelers. While some grandparents may choose to bring multigenerational groups on festive or summer cruises (the 596-passenger Silver Muse is the only vessel with a children's playroom), with air-inclusive rates starting around $800 per day and no discounts for kids, interruptions from playful youngsters are rare. Instead, you'll likely hear requests for more champagne or caviar, both offered complimentary and available 24/7.

To book: Enjoy a 10-night voyage from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Barcelona on the 596-passenger Silver Moon, with prices starting at $7,600 per person.

Windstar

Windstar ensures a kid-free environment, allowing only guests aged eight and older to board. However, it’s uncommon to see any children at all. The upscale line features ships accommodating 148 to 342 passengers, offering an intimate and adult-focused atmosphere whether you're aboard a majestic sailing vessel or a luxurious all-suite motor yacht. Most cabins and suites cater to couples, making it a romantic choice at sea, complemented by exceptional dining, recognized by the James Beard Foundation. Spend your days kayaking from the ship’s marina and your evenings savoring delightful meals while enjoying the tranquil moonlit ocean views from the deck.

To book: Embark on the 7-day Dreams of Tahiti journey aboard the 312-passenger sailing ship Star Breeze, with all-inclusive rates starting at $3,399 per person.

This article was initially published in 2023 and was last updated on June 25, 2024, to reflect the latest information.