Adults-only Cruises: No Kids Allowed on These Ships

On some cruise ships, adults can enjoy a child-free vacation. If you want to take a break from kids, you don't need to go to so-called adults-only hotels. Some cruise lines have also started to meet the needs of adults exclusively.

Only individuals aged 18 and above are allowed on board these cruise ships. There is even a cruise line where the age limit is significantly higher. We present the best cruises for adults and what they have to offer.

In fall 2025, Tui Cruises will offer its first adults-only cruise. On November 17, 'Mein Schiff 6' departs from Cape Town for a journey to the Indian Ocean: The theme is 'Adults only: Pure relaxation in the Indian Ocean.'

The 23-night cruise travels from South Africa through Mauritius and Sri Lanka to Singapore. Minors and children are excluded from participating. The cruise is all about 'relaxation,' according to a statement from the Hamburg cruise company. Extensive days at sea are planned to ensure this.

Areas of the ship normally reserved for children, such as the 'Pirates' Island' and 'Nest' on Deck 14, will remain empty, reports the 'Kieler Nachrichten'. The staff will be reassigned, according to the newspaper.

On board 'Mein Schiff 6', travelers can enjoy a variety of culinary highlights, an extensive wellness and sports program, and diverse entertainment. A special highlight is the accompaniment of mental coach Eva Wellner, who will offer workshops and tips to enhance passengers' well-being.

While the German cruise line is implementing the adults-only concept for the first time as a themed cruise, other companies have long been offering permanently child-free cruises.

On all Viking cruise ships, you will not find casinos, smoking areas, or anyone under 18. The latter is even the first item on the cruise line's not-list.

'We don't try to be everything for everyone. Instead, we focus on offering you meaningful experiences,' explains the cruise line. Both the sea and river cruise ships are therefore 100% adult-only.

According to its own claims, Viking River Cruises possesses the largest fleet of river cruise ships. A total of 80 ships travel through renowned European rivers such as the Rhine, Main, or Danube. Since 2015, Viking ships have been voyaging across the world's oceans.

According to Viking, the ocean fleet stands out for its 'modern Scandinavian design with elegant accents, intimate spaces, and attention to detail.' Each of the twelve ships has a private veranda for every cabin. You can choose from various restaurants. Additionally, each ship features an infinity pool, a Nordic-inspired spa, and an Explorers' Lounge on two decks with panoramic views.

Furthermore, there are 'carefully curated book collections' so you can relax with a good book and a cocktail after spending ample time enjoying the stunning views.

All Virgin Voyages ships are also kid-free: 'Children are among life's great joys, but at Virgin Voyages we believe that absence makes the heart grow fonder, especially during a cruise,' declares the cruise line in a statement. The cruise ships are thus a 'playground for your inner child' for adults only. This is supported by an appropriate onboard entertainment program.

There is a pajama party, various dance shows, music events, modern theater performances, long casino nights, and a so-called Scarlet Night, where the entire ship transforms into a red menagerie.

The British cruise line Saga Cruises takes a different course than the more youth party-oriented Virgin Voyages. Both the ocean cruises and river cruises are reserved for people over 50. The booking policies state that only one accompanying person or a family member aged 40 years or older may join.

Travelers over 50 can, for instance, cruise child-free around the world aboard the 'Spirit of Discovery' or the 'Spirit of Adventure'. The luxury ship was in its first season in 2024. According to Saga Cruises, it was designed 'exclusively for discerning guests' and aims to offer 'a distinctly British style of cruising.'

It is a so-called boutique cruise ship that offers the luxury of a boutique hotel with ever-changing breathtaking views from the private balcony, which is standard equipment on the ship. Furthermore, travelers have a selection of different restaurants, such as the Khukuri House, the world's first Nepalese restaurant at sea. Drinks are all-inclusive.

Alongside a wide choice of cabins and suites with balconies, the ship offers a variety of entertainment options. There's The Playhouse theater for live matinee and evening shows or the Britannia Lounge for music and dancing. Those wishing to relax can do so at a spa, the Lido outdoor pool, or at one of the numerous bars.

Also with P&O Cruises, a brand of the British-American cruise company Carnival Corporation & plc, you can cruise without kids. The choice of ship matters. While 'Iona,' 'Azura,' 'Britannia,' and 'Ventura' offer a 'family-friendly experience,' according to the cruise line, the 'Aurora' and 'Arcadia' are exclusively for adults.

The 'Aurora' is the smallest ship in the fleet, accommodating 1,874 travelers. The modern cruiser provides a more intimate atmosphere. It offers a luxurious spa and salon as well as a retractable roof over an inviting Crystal Pool. You can choose from 19 restaurants and bars and seven venues offering a vibrant program, including theater shows, cabaret performances, and movie nights.

The 'Aurora' journeys across the globe. It offers Northern Europe and Scandinavia cruises. Trips to Norway and Iceland, Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands are also on the itinerary. The ship also sails to the Mediterranean and North America and Canada.

In addition to adults-only cruises, there are those that 'cater to adults.' While children are allowed, they are usually rarely found onboard.

For example, Seabourn Cruise Line offers luxury cruises aimed at adults. The small ships feature a private, yacht-like atmosphere and travel around the globe.

The 'Celebrity Edge' also offers luxurious cruises for adults. Although children are allowed, the 'Celebrity Edge' is 'best suited for adults seeking lively exclusivity,' according to the British portal 'cruisecritic.'

According to a 'The Travel' ranking, Holland America primarily targets adults. While children are welcome, they are rarely onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is also recognized as one of the best cruise providers for adults by 'Condé Nast Traveler,' even though children are not outright banned. The ultraluxurious cruise line has six ships. The newest ones house art collections valued at several million dollars. For instance, the 'Seven Seas Grandeur' hosts several Picassos and the first Fabergé egg at sea.

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