Adult-Only Cruises: Your Guide To A Kid-Free Getaway

Let’s be honest. Kids are great. They’re funny, they’re full of energy, and they ask some wonderfully unexpected questions.

But do you know what’s also great? Enjoying a coffee while it’s still hot. Reading a book without interruption. Lounging by a pool without a cannonball landing three feet away.

Sometimes, you just fancy a holiday that’s all about you.

That’s where adult-only cruises come in. Whether you’re after a romantic escape, a lively break with your mates or a few days of doing absolutely nothing, a cruise without the little ones could be just the ticket.

And no, you don’t have to be celebrating an anniversary, honeymoon or divorce to justify it. Fancy a holiday? That’s reason enough.

What Is An Adult-Only Cruise?

Pretty much what it says on the tin. An adult-only cruise is designed exclusively for grown-ups, with certain cruise lines restricting guests to those aged 18 and over.

That means no children’s clubs, no family splash zones and no need to plan your entire day around someone else’s nap schedule.

Instead, you’ll find experiences geared towards adult tastes, from stylish bars and speciality restaurants to live entertainment, spa treatments and late-night dancing.

Of course, not every cruise that attracts adults is strictly adults-only. Some cruise lines welcome families but offer quieter ships, adult-only pool areas or more grown-up onboard experiences.

So, if a completely child-free holiday is what you’re after, check the age restrictions before booking. There’s a difference between a ship without a kids’ club and one that doesn’t allow children onboard at all.

Why Book An Adult-Only Cruise?

There are plenty of reasons to swap the family holiday for a grown-up getaway. Here are a few that might have you reaching for your suitcase.

1. Peace, Quiet And A Little Bit Of You Time

Remember relaxing? That thing you used to do before your diary filled up, your inbox took over and every weekend became a military operation?

An adult-only cruise gives you the chance to slow down and enjoy your own time.

Spend the morning beside the pool, enjoy a leisurely lunch, wander around the ship or simply sit back with a drink and watch the world sail by.

There’s no pressure to squeeze in every activity or keep everyone entertained. You can do as much or as little as you fancy.

And if your big plan for the afternoon is a nap? We respect that.

2. Romantic Getaways Without The Usual Fuss

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Fancy some quality time with your other half? An adult-only cruise can make a brilliant couples’ holiday.

Think sunset cocktails, dinners for two, spectacular ocean views and evenings spent watching a show rather than negotiating who gets the last chicken nugget.

You can explore new destinations together, enjoy a few indulgent extras or just spend time catching up without the usual day-to-day distractions.

Whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary or a spontaneous escape because you’ve both earned it, there’s something rather lovely about having the freedom to enjoy a holiday at your own pace.

3. Food, Drinks And Plenty Of Choice

One of the best bits about cruising is that your holiday isn’t limited to one restaurant or the same menu every evening.

Depending on your ship and fare, you could have everything from relaxed dining and international dishes to speciality restaurants serving something a little more memorable.

Fancy dressing up for dinner? Go for it. Prefer a casual bite before heading to the bar? That’s fine too.

And when it comes to drinks, there are plenty of opportunities to discover a new favourite cocktail, enjoy a glass of wine or settle into a cosy lounge.

Just remember that what’s included in your fare varies by cruise line and package, so check the details before booking. Nobody wants a surprise bill gatecrashing their holiday.

4. Entertainment That Goes Beyond Early Nights

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Think adult-only cruising means sitting quietly with a cup of tea and being tucked up by 9pm? Think again.

Depending on the ship, evenings can feature live bands, comedy, theatre shows, cabaret, cocktail bars, themed parties and nightclubs.

Some ships have a more relaxed atmosphere, while others are built around socialising and lively entertainment.

The trick is choosing the right cruise for your personality. If you’re keen to dance until late, you’ll want a different experience from someone whose idea of a perfect evening is a good meal and a quiet drink.

Thankfully, there’s more than one way to enjoy a child-free night at sea.

5. Make Friends Or Enjoy Your Own Company

Adult-only cruises aren’t just for couples.

Travelling with friends? They’re a great way to combine sightseeing, good food and a bit of nightlife without the hassle of organising separate hotels and transport between destinations.

Going solo? You can enjoy your independence, join organised activities, chat with fellow passengers or simply do your own thing.

There’s no obligation to be sociable every minute of the day. Sometimes meeting new people is part of the fun. Other times, the best company is a deck chair and a decent view.

Which Cruise Lines Offer Adult-Only Cruises?

Not all adult-only cruises are created equal. Some are lively and contemporary, while others offer a more traditional cruising experience.

Here are a few options worth looking at.

Virgin Voyages: For The Grown-Ups Who Still Know How To Have Fun

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If you like your holidays with a little personality, Virgin Voyages is worth a look.

Its cruises are exclusively for adults aged 18 and over, with an approach that feels different from traditional cruising. Think modern ship design, a wide range of restaurants, lively entertainment, wellness experiences and plenty of places to enjoy a drink.

Dining is a big part of the experience, with numerous restaurants included in the fare rather than a traditional buffet-focused setup. What’s included can depend on the particular fare and sailing, so always check the details.

Virgin Voyages can suit couples, groups of friends and solo travellers who want a sociable, contemporary cruise with plenty to do both onboard and ashore.

And if your idea of a good holiday involves a little adventure followed by a cocktail with an ocean view, you might be onto something.

P&O Cruises: Adult-Only Cruising From Southampton

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Prefer a more traditional cruise experience, with the bonus of being able to sail from the UK?

P&O Cruises has two ships dedicated to adult-only cruising: Arcadia and Aurora.

Both offer dining, entertainment and a range of itineraries, with departures from Southampton making them particularly appealing if you’d rather avoid flying.

That means you can arrive at the port, get onboard and let the holiday begin. No airport queues, no baggage carousel staring contests and no worrying whether your suitcase has decided to take a separate holiday.

P&O’s adult-only ships can be a good choice for travellers who enjoy classic cruising, whether you’re after a shorter break or a longer voyage.

What About Other Cruise Lines?

You might also come across cruise lines such as Azamara, Seabourn and Silversea when researching a more grown-up cruise.

These aren’t strictly adults-only across their fleets, so don’t assume children are prohibited. However, their onboard style, dining and destination experiences may appeal to adults looking for a different kind of holiday.

The key is to decide what matters most to you: absolutely no children onboard, a quieter atmosphere, luxury touches or a particular style of entertainment.

Where Should You Go On An Adult-Only Cruise?

The beauty of cruising is that you can enjoy a few different destinations without repeatedly packing your bags and checking into another hotel.

Here are three ideas for your next grown-up escape.

Mediterranean Cruises: Culture By Day, Cocktails By Night

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If your perfect holiday involves sunshine, historic cities, great food and a glass of something chilled, the Mediterranean could be calling.

Depending on your itinerary, you might explore Barcelona, wander through Rome, discover the Greek islands or enjoy the coastal charm of Croatia.

Spend the day sightseeing, sampling local food or relaxing at a beach club, then return to your ship for dinner and evening entertainment.

It’s a brilliant option for couples and friends who want a mix of exploring and unwinding.

Caribbean Cruises: Swap Grey Skies For Turquoise Seas

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Fancy trading the British weather for white-sand beaches and warm tropical waters?

A Caribbean cruise could be just the escape you’re after.

Depending on the route, you could visit beautiful islands, enjoy beach days, explore local towns or book an excursion to discover the scenery beyond the port.

Of course, you can also do absolutely nothing. Find a sun lounger, order a drink and pretend your work emails don’t exist.

We won’t tell anyone.

Cruises From Southampton: No Airport Faff Required

If you like the sound of a cruise but could happily skip the airport experience, look at adult-only departures from Southampton.

P&O Cruises’ Arcadia and Aurora offer adult-only sailings from the UK, with itineraries that vary by season and departure date.

It’s a particularly handy option if you prefer to travel by car or train and want your holiday to begin without an international flight.

Have a look at our adult-only cruise deals to see which itineraries are available.

Are Adult-Only Cruises All-Inclusive?

Not necessarily. This is where it’s worth reading the small print rather than getting carried away imagining yourself sipping cocktails beside the pool.

Some cruise fares include a range of dining, entertainment and other onboard experiences, while drinks, speciality dining, Wi-Fi, excursions and gratuities may cost extra.

Other cruise lines offer fares or packages that bundle more into the price.

If you’re looking for flights and hotel accommodation as part of the same holiday, check out our Smart Package cruise holidays. Depending on the deal, these can combine your cruise with flights and a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay.

Always check exactly what’s included in the specific offer. Two cruises at a similar headline price can work out very differently once you add the extras.

How Much Do Adult-Only Cruises Cost?

There’s no single price for an adult-only cruise. The cost depends on the cruise line, destination, ship, cabin, time of year, length of sailing and what’s included in your fare.

A shorter cruise might suit a smaller budget, while a longer itinerary or a more luxurious ship could cost considerably more.

A few ways to make your money go further:

• Be flexible with dates. If you can travel outside peak periods, you may find different prices and availability.
• Compare the whole package. Look at flights, hotels, transfers and onboard extras, not just the cruise fare.
• Choose your cabin carefully. An interior cabin can help keep costs down, while a balcony gives you your own outdoor space.
• Book the experience you actually want. There’s no point paying extra for facilities you’ll never use.
• Keep an eye on deals. Browse our latest cruise deals and compare the options available for your dates.

The aim isn’t simply to find the cheapest cruise. It’s to find the holiday that gives you the best experience for your budget.

Is An Adult-Only Cruise Right For You?

If you want a break that puts your interests first, it could be a very good fit.

Adult-only cruises can work brilliantly for:

• Couples looking for a romantic escape.
• Friends planning a holiday together.
• Solo travellers who want to explore at their own pace.
• Parents who fancy some well-earned time away.
• Travellers who prefer a more grown-up onboard atmosphere.

They aren’t all peaceful retreats, though. Some are lively, sociable and packed with evening entertainment, while others are better suited to relaxed days and leisurely dinners.

Think about the atmosphere you want, the destinations you’d love to visit and the experiences that matter most to you.

And remember, you don’t need a special occasion to book a holiday. Making it to Friday is sometimes more than enough.

Ready To Find Your Adult-Only Cruise?

Whether you’re dreaming of Mediterranean sunshine, Caribbean beaches or a no-fly departure from Southampton, there’s an adult-only cruise to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

You can spend your days exploring new places, relaxing onboard, enjoying great food or dancing the night away. Or, if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you can do all four.

Go on, have a nose through our adult-only cruise holidays and see what’s available.

Your next grown-up getaway could be closer than you think.

Adult-Only Cruise FAQs

Are adult-only cruises strictly for over-18s?

It depends on the cruise line. Virgin Voyages is exclusively for adults aged 18 and over. Other cruise lines may offer specific adult-only ships or sailings, so check the age policy before booking.

Are adult-only cruises good for couples?

Absolutely. They can be ideal for couples who want time to relax together, enjoy dining and entertainment, explore destinations and escape everyday routines.

Can I go on an adult-only cruise alone?

Yes. Solo travellers can enjoy the freedom to explore independently, join onboard activities or meet other passengers. Check the fare and cabin options for solo travellers, as pricing varies.

Are P&O Cruises adult-only?

P&O Cruises has two adult-only ships, Arcadia and Aurora. Other ships in its fleet welcome families, so make sure you choose the right ship for your holiday.

Do adult-only cruises include drinks and Wi-Fi?

Not always. What’s included depends on the cruise line, fare and package. Check the terms of your chosen deal before booking.

Where can I find adult-only cruise deals?

You can browse the latest options on our Adults-Only Cruise Deals page, where you can explore available offers and compare holidays.