Which cruise lines are adults-only?

Frequently asked questions

Which cruise lines are adults-only?

Virgin Voyages and Viking are two cruise lines with an 18+ rule on every sailing. Virgin Voyages says the minimum age to book and sail is 18, and Viking says all guests must be 18 on or before the day they embark on its ocean and river cruises. Lines that carry all ages also set aside adults-only spaces, such as Royal Caribbean's Solarium (18+) and Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat (21+). Policies were checked Nov 2, 2026 and can change, so confirm them in your quote.

Is Virgin Voyages adults-only?

Yes. Virgin Voyages says every sailing is created exclusively for adults and the minimum age to book and sail is 18 years old.

Is Viking adults-only?

Yes. Viking says all guests must be 18 years old on or before the day they are scheduled to embark, and it does not keep facilities or services on board for younger guests. Viking's own list of what it is not includes no children under 18 and no casinos.

Can I get an adults-only experience on a bigger cruise line?

Yes, in set-aside spaces. Royal Caribbean says every ship has dedicated adults-only spaces, including the Solarium, and most of its adults-only areas are for guests 18 and older, including Hideaway Beach at Perfect Day CocoCay. Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is for guests 21 and older and is included in the fare. Norwegian's Vibe Beach Club is for guests 18 and older on select ships and needs a paid pass, with a limited number sold.

Does an adults-only cruise mean everyone can drink?

Not always. Virgin Voyages says the drinking age is 21 in the United States and 18 in international waters, other ports follow local law, and on Alaska itineraries all sailors must be 21 or older to buy or drink alcohol on board.

Should I choose an adults-only line or adult spaces on a bigger ship?

Choose an 18+ line if you want no children anywhere on board. Choose adult spaces on a bigger ship if you want that ship's activities, routes or departure port and are happy to share the rest of the ship with all ages. Some adult spaces are included in the fare and some need a paid pass, so check before you book.

Can you help me book an adults-only cruise?

Yes. Tell us your dates, departure city and the kind of trip you want, and our independent travel advisor will compare adults-only lines and sailings with adult spaces for those dates. Request a free quote to get started.