7 cruises perfect for a girls' trip

A girls-only trip is always a good idea, but it can be stressful to organize, especially when you consider everyone's diverse interests, preferences, and budgets.

To ease the stress of planning an epic girls' getaway, consider going on a cruise where everything you could ever want or need (think: extensive beverage and dining options, amenities, and entertainment) can be found right on board, according to Travel + Leisure.

Abby Clinton, CEO of Got Your Bash, recommends a few options for your girls' getaway.

Celebrity

For a luxurious cruise experience, Clinton recommends sailing with Celebrity, whose fleet of luxury ships will impress everyone in the group. Sea days are perfect for spending time in the spa or relaxing by the pools. Alternatively, those who prefer to stay active can do yoga, hit the gym, play pickleball, or go shopping. To satisfy your hunger, gather everyone together before heading to one of the stylish eateries on board, many of which are complimentary, such as the Normandie French fine dining restaurant.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the best options for a girls' trip at sea. With more than two dozen ships sailing from major US cities such as New York, Charleston, Los Angeles, Tampa, Miami, and others, it's easy to find an itinerary that will suit everyone in the group. Each Carnival ship offers dozens of exciting entertainment and activities - from roller coasters to water slides to mini-golf - which means it's virtually impossible to get bored on board. While adventure and adrenaline lovers engage in one of these activities, those seeking tranquility can head to the aptly named Cloud 9 spa or the adults-only Serenity space.

Virgin Voyages

Clinton describes Virgin Voyages as "fun, funky, and outspoken". This (very accurate) description - combined with top-notch beverage and dining options (read: no buffets!), an adults-only atmosphere, and unrivaled entertainment offerings and amenities (including onboard tattoo parlors and risqué cabaret shows) - makes it ideal for energetic, party-oriented groups.

Holland America Line

Those seeking a more refined experience on board should book a Holland America Line sailing. Spend time admiring glacial views by the pool, sipping coffee and whale watching from the Explorer's Lounge, and relaxing in the spa's thermal suite - with breaks for coffee, lunch, and cocktails, though not necessarily in that order.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its fun and carefree approach to cruising (it has no set reservation times or dress code). With this in mind, groups are not tied to set schedules, allowing travelers to explore - or relax - at their own pace. Prefer to spend the day napping by the pool while your friends decide to go down the water slides together? Go for it. Alternatively, visit The Waterfront, a quarter-mile oceanfront promenade, retire to the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, or race your friends in a go-karting event (options vary by ship).

Royal Caribbean

Known for their huge mega ships and vibrant onboard entertainment (think: escape rooms, ten-story slides, zip lines, bumper cars, ice skating, and surfing and skydiving simulators, although the exact options vary by ship), Royal Caribbean cruises truly offer something for everyone, especially the kid at heart. However, this does not mean that there are no adult-oriented offerings in the line. Soak up the sun in a secluded tanning bed, indoor and outdoor space designed exclusively for adults. The spa is also a great place for those looking for a soothing getaway from the noisy public areas.

Margaritaville at Sea

This relatively new cruise line currently has one ship, the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, sailing from Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island; however, its new ship, the Margaritaville at Sea Islander, will debut in June 2024 and cruise from Tampa to Key West and Mexico. The line's laid-back vibe and relaxed approach to cruising make it a favorite for a short but sweet bachelorette trip at sea. Margaritaville at Sea also offers special bachelorette party and girls' getaway packages that provide access to exclusive discounts and the best available fares. Highlights on board include margaritas at the aptly named 5'O Clock Somewhere Bar, cheeseburgers in paradise at the LandShark Bar & Grill, and, of course, plenty of live musical performances featuring the best Jimmy Buffett tunes that will get you and the rest of the group into tropical vacation mode.