ADULT ONLY CRUISES

PLANETCRUISE > CRUISE TYPES > ADULT ONLY CRUISES

We Love Kids, But..........On Our Cruise Holiday

Many cruise passengers have no problem with the children themselves and most have children of their own and grand-children and adore their time spent with them. It is just that sometimes, in your life, especially when on holiday, you just want to relax and have complete peace and quiet. Adults only cruise ships are an attractive option for newlywed couples, retired couples, singles cruises, or parents just eager for a private getaway and there are three cruise lines that offer adult-only cruise ships:

• Cruise & Maritime Voyages – Marco Polo
• P&O Cruises – Arcadia & Artemis
• Thomson – Calypso(Passengers over 16 years plus only)

If these ships are not suitable for you, this does not mean, that adults interested in cruising won't be able to find solitude onboard.

Seek Out Those Child-Free Quiet Areas Onboard your Cruise

A number of cruise lines are increasingly catering to passengers seeking tranquility with the introduction of quiet, adults-only areas on their ships. Long ago Royal Caribbean International recognised the need for these places when it introduced the adults-only Solarium areas on its Vision-class ships. These peaceful spaces lie under cover of a sliding roof and feature a large pool surrounded by chaise lounges and a hot tub or two, with exotic design motifs including bronze statues, stone reliefs, tile mosaics and tropical foliage. On the Freedom-class vessels there are two large hot tubs cantilevered out 12 feet from the sides of the ship. Suspended 112 feet above the ocean, the hot tubs offer breathtaking, panoramic views. Guests willing to immerse themselves in the experience find music piped in underwater, a photo collage behind glass depicting a coral reef, and a glass wall that allows them to look into the atrium adjacent to the pool while submerged.

The Sanctuary on the Crown Princess is an adult-only, quiet retreat located in uppermost forward deck of the ship and is covered by white awnings and populated with trees, abundant plush loungers and massage cabanas. But, this area is not free as Princess charges $15 for four-and-a-half-hour stays. The charge includes chilled face towels and Evian water atomizers dispensed by stewards while guests relax.

The 220,000-ton, 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas are not only the largest cruise ships, by far, in the world it also offers the most unique adults-only playground afloat. Adults looking for a retreat will find solace in the Oasis' Solarium. Boasting a redefined layout, passengers will have the sensation of floating on air from the two-deck high, glass-panelled enclave designed with seating on various "islands" surrounded by water. The adults-only, open-air Solarium will offer a swimming pool, two whirlpools, and four cantilevered whirlpools suspended 136 feet above the ocean. The mezzanine level of the adult-dedicated area will overlook the pool deck below, offering additional chaise lounges and seating.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers the biggest "Freestyle Cruising" vessel the 153,000-ton, 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic. Adults onboard are sure to like the party atmosphere at the POSH Beach Club, a first of its kind beach club at sea that offers an exclusive, adults-only setting at the top of the ship.

For More of an Adult-Only Experience, Plan Your Cruise

Cruise passengers who truly want a child-free experience should specifically plan their cruise with as many adult options as possible. Choosing a Luxury Cruise rather than a mainstream cruise line is a good first step: many families, especially those with younger children, are unlikely to opt for these more expensive lines. Furthermore, luxury vessels offer fewer children's programs that cater to young passengers. Yachts of Seabourn Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Star Clippers are among the best options for finding cruises for adults only. More traditonal ships like Cunard Cruise Line's Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth and Fred Olsen's cruise ships offer fewer facilities for children, as well as Azamara Club Cruises and Voyages of Discovery.

It is also possible to choose an itinerary that is less appealing to young travellers. Eastern Caribbean cruises and Southern Caribbean cruises are more popular with adults, as are Bermuda cruises and exotic destinations with longer cruise durations and river cruises are frequently favoured by adults as well.

When the cruise sails can also help keep it more adults only. Most cruises travelling through school holidays likely to include families and teenagers. Cruises in other months are less likely to have as many children on board.

Cruise ship cabins can also be chosen to improvise an adults only cruise. Opt for a more expensive cabin, even a suite if possible, though avoid areas of the ship that offer adjoining cabins that may be popular among families. Choose a cabin location away from pools, children's areas, and teen clubs for a more adults only experience.

It's clear guests really appreciate adults-only retreats, which offer a tranquil and peaceful environment for relaxing with a book or just enjoying the magnificent sea view. You can bet more lines will initiate and only increase the concept as it's a great way to enhance a cruise holiday.