Best Cruises for Adults

Cruise lines

As cruises have expanded beyond family vacations, there are more cruises for adults than ever before. No waterslides, no kid zones, just sleek ships with Michelin-level dining and yacht-style vessels. There are really only two major adults-only cruise lines (Virgin and Viking), but many others cater to adults with a more premium experience.

• Virgin Voyages: Truly adults-only, Virgin Voyages is built for modern travelers who want an inclusive vibe and all-inclusive resort experience at sea. Ships are stylish and itineraries focus on the Caribbean, Europe, and North America. It’s great for couples and honeymoons, friend groups, and solo cruisers who just want to relax and have fun. They’re also very unique, with an on-board tattoo parlor, rooftop DJs, no buffets, and over 20 dining spots curated by Michelin-starred chefs.

• Viking Cruises: The only other truly adults-only cruise line, Viking is minimalist and serene. Destination-focused cruises are the star with river and ocean itineraries that highlight culture and history. It's a go-to for travelers 55 and over who want enriching, all-inclusive journeys through Europe, Asia, Antarctica, and almost anywhere else you can think of.

• Celebrity Cruises: Known for sleek ships, standout dining, and a spa-like atmosphere onboard. Billed as a "modern luxury" experience, the atmosphere skews mature with adult-centric spaces like the Retreat suites, making it great for couples, honeymoons, and milestone trips. For those who want a truly relaxing trip, Aqua Class rooms offer more spa-like amenities, access to the ship’s spa facilities, and a dedicated on-board restaurant.

• Silversea: Small ships meet all-inclusive luxury, with butler service, fine dining, and globe-spanning itineraries from Antarctica to the Galápagos. It’s perfect for well-traveled adults who want to explore the world in refined comfort. Tailored excursions, cultural immersion, and a polished but unpretentious onboard vibe make it a standout experience.

• Windstar Cruises: Sailing on intimate, yacht-like ships (some with actual sails), Windstar focuses on immersive, off-the-beaten-path destinations. With just a few hundred guests onboard, the experience feels personal and relaxed, especially perfect for couples and honeymooners. Expect slower, scenic journeys through places like the Greek Isles, French Riviera, or the South Pacific.

Cruise destinations

Less frequented by families with children, these cruise destinations are more about adventure, culture, and once-in-a-lifetime scenery. Even if it’s a more family-friendly cruise line like Royal Caribbean, these itineraries are built for adults who want more than just water parks and kids clubs.

• Antarctica & the Arctic: These remote and rugged bucket-list destinations are almost guaranteed to be kid-free. Some cruise lines even impose age restrictions (and physical demands). Polar cruises to Antarctica or the Arctic are built for travelers who crave exploration and want zodiac landings, wildlife encounters, and seminars from experts.

• Africa: Cruising the African coast often attracts more experienced, culturally curious travelers looking for a mix of wildlife, history, and once-in-a-lifetime scenery. These itineraries are often longer and more remote, keeping the atmosphere peaceful and adult-forward.

• South Pacific (French Polynesia, Fiji, the Cook Islands): Most cruises in this region are on small ships that access remote lagoons and untouched beaches. With a laid-back pace, rich local culture, and beautiful scenery, these cruises are catered more toward honeymooners, couples, or solo travelers.

• Asia: Ultramodern skylines, ancient temples, and street food tours turn every stop into an adventure. Immersive excursions and rich cultural exchanges follow the long-haul flights, which tend to deter younger families.

• River destinations: From the Danube to the Mekong, river cruises are adult-forward by design. Smaller ships, cultural deep-dives, and walking-heavy excursions make these ideal for travelers who want a slower experience immersed in local cultures.

Generally, longer itineraries (especially repositioning cruises or those over 10 nights) tend to draw fewer families. Shoulder-season sailings and those outside of school holidays are also good bets for a more adult-focused cruise.

Even on family-friendly lines, many ships offer adults-only pools, sun decks, or specialty dining areas for a quieter escape. If you want to avoid kids altogether, look for lines without waterparks, kids clubs, or waterslides.

Small ships and luxury lines tend to skip kid-centric programming entirely, offering enrichment lectures, elevated dining, and a slower, more sophisticated pace.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.