If you prefer to enjoy a relaxing holiday without screaming kids running around, but want to experience several destinations in one trip, adults only cruises are ideal. Like many hotels, some cruise ships have dedicated adults only areas, but several also have dedicated adults only ships, like Arcadia and Aurora on P&O Cruises, Marella Explorer 2 from TUI, and all of the Virgin cruise ships at Virgin Voyages. Here's our guide to cruises for adults only in 2025, 2026 and 2027 and the deals on offer.
If you prefer a grown up escape without the kids, Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship is the perfect adults only cruise option. With itineraries in both the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, you can choose to stay closer to home in the Greek Islands or Adriatic, or enjoy the tropical shores of Barbados, Antigua and the Dominican Republic.
And with lots to enjoy on board including a large spa, golf simulator, plenty of entertainment and even a running track, you'll be torn between getting off to explore the destinations, and staying on board to enjoy the facilities.
Virgin Voyages concept is simple. Modern, luxury cruises for adults. And they've excelled. Their fleet of ships are all you would expect from a Virgin cruise. Plenty of red design, funky interiors and heaps to enjoy. Their itineraries include the US, Caribbean, Mediterranean and Northern Europe, which is perfect if you just want to try them out for a few days on a mini cruise to Bruges.
If you want to be in the sunshine and enjoying your cruise ASAP, Marella cruises is a great option. As part of the TUI cruises brands, Marella offers fly-cruises in the Caribbean, Canary Islands and Mediterranean. And with your flights, port transfers, tips, food and drinks included, these all inclusive cruises are ideal if you don't want to have to worry about a thing and have everything organised for you. They have one dedicated adults only ship, Marella Explorer 2, and a few other adults only sailings on other ships during the year.
Despite being a family friendly cruise line, P&O cruises adults only cruise ships are ideal if you want to escape the little ones. It's two dedicated ships exclusively for adults are Aurora and Arcadia which have itineraries around the Canary Islands, Portugal and Spain, as well as mini cruises to Amsterdam and Bruges, which are ideal for first timers to "test the water" and see if you'd like to do a longer cruise.
If you're a fan of Saga Holidays, then you'll be a fan of Saga cruises. Dedicated cruises for the over 50s, Saga offers two ships with no-fly cruises from the UK (usually Portsmouth or Dover). Although they will still take in some amazing destinations, you'll often find that the destinations are themed or educational in nature, in partnership with brands like BBC Studios presenters and guides, and wildlife experts from ORCA. What's more, they take all the pain out of the extras with a chauffeur service, included gratuities and travel insurance included as standard.
Although not a dedicated adults only cruise line, Cunard offers a much more premium experience which can entice an older, more grown up guest. A bit more traditional, these ships take black tie evenings much more seriously. Families are still welcome on Cunard ships with activities and kids' clubs from six months to 17 years old.