Cruises for Couples

Romantic, social or adventurous — agree on the trip first.

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Cruises for couples come in more flavors than the honeymoon brochures suggest. A pair of retirees on their fortieth cruise, newlyweds, and two friends in their 30s on their first trip together all travel as couples, and they want different things. Start by agreeing on the kind of trip.

Three Kinds of Couples’ Cruise

Quiet and romantic

Smaller or adults-only ships, long dinners, a balcony cabin and itineraries with relaxed ports. Mediterranean islands, the Caribbean’s smaller harbors or a European river.

Lively and social

Big ships with nightlife, comedy, specialty restaurants and an adults-only pool to escape the crowds. The Caribbean and Mexico from U.S. ports suit this style well.

Active and adventurous

Alaska, Norway, the Galapagos or Antarctica, with kayaking, hiking and wildlife. Expedition ships and small ships put you closer to the action.

Adults-Only Ships and Spaces

If you would rather not share the pool with children, you have two routes. Some lines are adults only: Virgin Voyages and Viking’s ocean ships take guests aged 18 and over. Other lines carry families but set aside adults-only areas — Royal Caribbean’s Solarium, Carnival’s Serenity retreat and Princess’s Sanctuary are well-known examples, and some charge a fee for premium loungers or cabanas.

Timing matters too. Cruises outside school holidays, longer voyages and itineraries far from family homeports naturally carry fewer children.

Table for two set beside the sea at dusk — A table for two is easy to arrange on most ships.

Small Things That Make a Big Difference

Ask for a table for two at a fixed time if you like routine, or choose flexible dining if you do not.
Book one specialty dinner early in the cruise; prime times fill quickly.
Tell the line about an anniversary or honeymoon at booking.
Pick a cabin away from elevators and late-night venues for quiet.
Choose shore days you will both enjoy — or split up for a morning and meet for lunch.

Couples’ Cruise Questions

Which cruise lines are adults only?

Virgin Voyages and Viking’s ocean ships accept only guests 18 and over. Many other lines carry children but set aside adults-only spaces, such as Royal Caribbean’s Solarium, Carnival’s Serenity retreat and Princess’s Sanctuary.

What cabin is best for couples?

A balcony is the classic choice: a private outdoor space for coffee or a sunset drink. Couples on a budget often prefer an oceanview over an inside cabin for the natural light. Avoid cabins under the pool deck or above the theater if you are light sleepers.

Are cruises good for honeymoons and anniversaries?

Very. Tell the line or your advisor what you are celebrating; many lines mark the occasion, and an advisor can request a table for two and add a celebration package.

Itineraries Couples Love

Couples who want romance often choose itineraries with late evenings in port, such as Mediterranean or Greek island cruises, where you can dine ashore at sunset. Those who prefer nature pick Alaska’s fjords or Norway. Short Caribbean cruises suit a long weekend together, and a transatlantic crossing offers days of unhurried sea time for couples who like to read, talk and dress for dinner.

Find the Right Cruise for Two

Quiet, lively or adventurous — tell our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise what you both want and we will find the ship.

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