Top 14 cruises for adults: from traditional Mediterranean sailings to Arctic expeditions and around-the-world voyages

The holy grail for travelers looking for a relaxed and fulfilling adults-only vacation is the best cruises around the world. There are plenty of liners with stunning water slides and plenty of entertainment, but few of them are exclusively for adult passengers. But at the same time, there are cruise ships whose programs are geared mostly towards adult guests and lack the standard family-friendly activities like kids' clubs.

So when you come to the moment of a concrete choice, then to your surprise you can find that the options for cruises around the world are quite a lot, including those suitable for the adult public. They all have their own characteristics and atmospheres: more traditional or with energetic parties, so your choice should be based on what you want to discover on board. Let these recommendations from the experts help you find the perfect option among the top best cruises for adults.

Cruise lines exclusively for adults

These expert- and traveler-approved offerings will make an excellent base for your next vacation.

Virgin Voyages

Among adult-only cruise lines, this one is one of the most prominent. Guests here are open to those over the age of 18. Virgin Voyages is different from typical cruises: don't look for standard entertainment and white-glove service. This cruise is geared toward young at heart travelers. Guests here are referred to as sailors. They can choose a voyage with different itineraries and durations: four to eight days in the Caribbean, three to eleven nights in Australia and the South Pacific, or seven nights in Europe.

There are no traditional buffets or dining rooms on Virgin Voyages ships. They are replaced by original drinking establishments and over 20 specialty restaurants ranging from Korean barbecue to Mexican menus. Entertainment programs can't be called typical either. It can be poolside dance parties, travesti cabarets, private karaoke studios, theater performances, casinos and more. The cruise provides wellness programs: morning yoga and meditation classes, gyms, a treadmill that wraps around the ship, and exercise rooms. There's also a world-class spa with sauna, bath and therapy rooms.

Virgin Voyages fares are not full-on all-inclusive, but cover meals, fitness, Wi-Fi, tips, some entertainment and basic soft drinks.

Viking

Viking boasts the largest fleet of river cruise ships and popular 930-passenger ocean liners. Itineraries range from Scandinavia to the Caribbean to Australia, and there are seasonal offerings tied to specific dates and events, such as from London to Bergen to see the northern lights or in the quiet season around the Mediterranean. This company also owns two expedition ships, the purpose of which is to explore the Great Lakes and polar regions.

Only persons 18 years of age or older can be a passenger on any ship of the cruise line. This applies to both ocean and river cruises. Viking differs from other popular adult cruises in that there are no casinos or inside cabins: even ordinary standard rooms are equipped with private verandas. The elegant Scandinavian-style interior and sublime atmosphere make Viking one of the most sought-after among mature travelers.

Adult cruises with Viking are not affordable, but there are bargain fares that help save money or complement the program with a variety of benefits. For example, fares may include a shore excursion in each port where the ship will stop, lunches and dinners, soft drinks, beer and wine, port taxes and fees, company meals, spa access, and 24-hour room service.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is a British cruise line and is most sought after by British cruisers accordingly. It has seven ships, five of which offer family vacations and two are designed for adult cruises.

The first Aurora ship can accommodate 1,874 passengers on board. It is the line's smallest ship, focusing on a more secluded and intimate vacation. Its main amenities include three pools and 19 restaurants and bars, a theater, library and movie theater, art gallery, lounge, and card room. The entertainment program for cruise members includes discos, cabarets, quizzes, etc. Aurora operates a wide variety of itineraries: short cruises of 4-5 days, voyages from Southampton to nearby cities such as Hamburg, Zeebrugge and Amsterdam, cruises to the Canary Islands, North America, the Mediterranean, and longer circumnavigations.

Arcadia is slightly larger than Aurora in passenger capacity, with 2,388 guests. There are fewer notable amenities: two pools versus three on the Aurora and only 15 restaurants and bars, and no lounge or card room. But there is a luxurious spa and The Globe, an entertainment center that hosts cabaret shows, art auctions, live musicians, movie screenings, etc. The ship's itineraries are identical to Aurora's. The ship's itineraries are identical to the Aurora except for round-the-world cruises.

Saga Cruises

This British line doesn't just cater exclusively to adults, moreover - its exquisite cruises are designed for members aged 50 and up (however, they can invite people over 40 to join them as companions).

For cruising, Saga Cruises offers two ships, Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure, which can board up to 987 passengers. They are filled with staterooms with balconies. The starting point for both liners can be Dover or Portsmouth, from which the itinerary travels through Europe, including the Azores and Canary Islands, or through West Africa, Central America, the Caribbean, Canada, and New England. Each cruise is a journey with a balanced mix of entertainment and relaxation, including a number of built-in excursions, afternoon tea, live music, guest expert lectures, workshops, and deck games. The ships have gyms, spas with hydrotherapy pools, infrared saunas and steam rooms, and outdoor pools with hot tubs.

Saga Cruises also has two twin ships, Spirit of the Rhine and Spirit of the Danube, for river cruises. And in 2024, it is due to add another brand new Spirit of the Douro to its fleet.

Saga Cruises offers its passengers several fares, and all of them include meals, unlimited drinks (including alcoholic beverages), Wi-Fi, excursions, spa access, tips, etc.

Adult-oriented cruises

Many more cruise lines cater to an adult audience, although they do provide some amenities for families with children.

Explora Journeys

This company's flagship Explora I debuted in 2023, and Explora Journeys is set to introduce its sister cruise ship, Explora II, this summer. Despite its rookie status, this line has already garnered rave reviews from travelers and cruise experts. She emphasizes her focus on the adult crowd and defines the experience provided as a luxury resort. But along with that, there are interconnecting suites, some programs for families of different ages and a small children's room aboard her liner.

On board is a superb hotel with elegant suites and a wellness center. The gastronomic experience is also up to par: there are six restaurants of different destinations, such as the Med Yacht Club with Mediterranean cuisine, the steakhouse Marble & Co. Grill, or the chic Emporium Marketplace with international cuisine. There are also plenty of places to enjoy a drink - 23 bars and lounges, four of which are outdoors.

At sea, passengers can look forward to a rich program of activities, such as coffee tasting, book clubs, mixology workshops, live music and craft courses in the countries and cities where stops are scheduled. For a more relaxed and measured vacation, passengers can always move to one of the pools or stroll through the luxury boutiques on board, such as the first Rolex store at sea.

Silversea Cruises

If you're looking for traditional luxury cruises for adults, this is the company to consider. Children are likely to be among the passengers on your ship, but they will still be few and far between, as there are no programs for this audience, so families will mostly rely on other options.

Cruise routes cover almost the whole world, so every traveler will be able to find a suitable destination. A special feature of the experience on the ships of this small but chic line is that formal evenings are still held here, unlike most competitors. Therefore, the gastronomic experience here will be exquisite and the service will be with all the formalities. Silversea provides its passengers with exceptional luxury and creative itineraries akin to expeditions to remote destinations.

This experience will be accompanied by first-class amenities and the opportunity to pamper yourself. Guests are provided with suite accommodations with butler service, gourmet meals, and complimentary alcoholic beverages. Passengers on Silver Nova, Silver Moon, Silver Ray and Silver Dawn who are foodies will appreciate the gastronomic excursions such as pasta making in Sicily, organic farm tours in Paros, and vineyard tours in Wales. The cruise price already includes these shore excursions, tips, lectures and private transfers.

Windstar Cruises

Strictly speaking, this line isn't for adults only, but travelers who won't be accompanied by children on their cruises can also put it on their list of great options. Technically, passengers must be at least 9 years old to board. But given the small size of the vessels used, for the most part, they are in demand by couples and individual travelers who prefer the romance of sailing and spacious yachts to huge liners. In addition, the size of the ships allows them to call at less publicized ports such as the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia and Montserrat in the Caribbean.

And while the ships are smaller in size, the scope of luxury is just as big as their giant brethren. A partnership with the James Byrd Foundation has brought premium restaurants on board. Passengers are also offered shore excursions and tours of local markets led by a chef. Some Caribbean, Mediterranean and Tahiti cruises feature water sports platforms for surfing, diving, kayaking and water trampolines. At other times, cruise members can enjoy the casual atmosphere by strolling the deck, relaxing at the spa, gambling at the casino, or taking a class at the gym.

Seabourn

This cruise line's seven small ships can carry a maximum of 600 passengers each. It includes, among others, two expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, which offer the ultimate combination of luxury and adventure. It includes a variety of restaurants ranging from bistro to fine dining, a full-service spa, and world-class expedition activities such as submarine exploration. Ocean liners don't skimp on luxury or experience. Seabourn sails luxury cruises to all seven continents, and its programs emphasize primarily an adult audience. Most cabins on the ships have private verandas, and all dining, fine wines, and premium spirits are included.

Activities vary by itinerary, but all are complimentary. For example, one signature activity is the Caviar in the Surf beach barbecue: staff members dive in and invite guests to stroll around and treat themselves to caviar and ice-cold champagne, followed by a lavish barbecue lunch, music, water sports and sunbathing on the white sandy beach. Active leisure enthusiasts will appreciate Marina Day - water sports that launch from a retractable platform. Extreme sports enthusiasts will take the opportunity to participate in the Polar Plunge and dive into the cold Arctic waters, while passengers who are not ready for such an experience can watch the daredevils.

Ponant

Ponant is a French cruise company that organizes luxury expeditions to remote destinations on particularly luxurious small ships. It owns 12 ships, including a new addition, Le Commandant Charcot, with five-star amenities and exquisite first-class restaurants.

If your goal is the chicest adult cruises with exclusive experiences where you'll sit by the fire watching the Southern Ocean lapping the shores of Antarctica or sipping Veuve Clicquot champagne as you cross the North Pole, then go for it.

Itineraries are not limited to polar expeditions. Ponant also sends its ships on tropical voyages: Oceania, the Pacific Islands, South and Central America, the Indian Ocean and Africa. There are also more traditional voyages with port visits, such as to Madagascar, Kanazawa in Japan, or Bequia Island in the Caribbean.

Whichever destination you choose, you will in any case receive exceptional comfort and excellent service. Leisure activities on board will consist of attending theater performances, lounging by the pool, exercising in the fitness room, and relaxing spa treatments. There is also a library with a wide range of books and board games, computers with Wi-Fi, and lounge areas.

Regent Seven Seas

Another cruise line aimed at the adult crowd, this one utilizes a luxury small-ship strategy. Technically, it doesn't have strict age restrictions for underage passengers. On the contrary, its program includes several entertainments for the youngest guests. But you can't see children on board very often, mostly during summer school vacations on Mediterranean and Alaska itineraries. Therefore, if you prefer long cruises, for example, for several weeks or even months, the probability of sharing your trip with adults only is approaching one hundred percent.

Regent Seven Seas will especially appeal to individual cruisers, wealthy couples, and groups of friends, who strive to choose the best in life. All of the line's ships are luxurious, from marble and sparkling chandeliers to fashionable suites. One of the best applications of the cruise line is the all-inclusive fares, which consist of a huge array of services and add-ons. The package includes airfare, airport-to-ship transfers, unlimited shore excursions, 2-3 day land programs, unlimited drinks, access to bars and lounges, signature meals, and more. Want the ultimate in entertainment and amenities - book a fare and enjoy a hassle-free voyage.

Crystal

This cruise line is a perennial favorite among adult luxury travelers and is among the top world cruises. But it made a stunning debut again last summer, returning after a long hiatus already under the wing of A&K Travel Group.

Her flagships Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony make a striking impression after completing a multi-million dollar refurbishment. Staterooms are fully occupied by suites, with butler service included in the amenities, several signature restaurants on board will surprise even the most hardcore gourmets (including the only Nobu at sea), and the entertainment program can shake up any traveler: one day you can have fun at stand-up comedy, and the next day you can be at a production no worse than Broadway. There's also a library, a computer center, and a state-of-the-art spa offering both traditional services and innovative beauty and wellness treatments.

Crystal's itineraries touch six continents, excluding only Antarctica. Any of them will be a winner, but there is still one of the most unique, scheduled for 2025. With 123 nights of travel and 62 ports in 31 countries, the experience will be truly unique.

Azamara

This cruise line consists of four small and medium-sized ships that can accommodate up to 702 guests. This cruise line also offers children's programs, but there are few families with children among the guests. Predominantly the passengers of the cruise will be people aged 50 years and older. The atmosphere is appropriate: refined, calm and serene.

The peculiarity of cruises of this line, popular among adults, is the planning of routes in such a way as to maximize the time spent on land. Cruisers are organized shore excursions accompanied by local guides and even overnight stays in ports.

On board, passengers are treated to a variety of entertainment, musical evenings, live performances and parties, such as the signature White Night, where guests will relax and party while showing off their best white outfits. A host of exciting activities will find fans regardless of skill level - from dance lessons, lectures and shopping to game shows and quizzes. Each evening, a program with the next day's planned activities is delivered to your stateroom so you can quickly plan your leisure time during your cruise vacation.

Passengers can grab a bite to eat in one of 6 restaurants, sip a cocktail in the bars and lounges of their choice, and relax in the spa before returning to their modern staterooms.

Uniworld

This line is in demand among adult travelers, especially mature couples who prefer to choose popular river cruises for their vacations. According to its rules, guests over the age of four are allowed on board, but mostly they don't end up there. Unless you choose one of the Generations voyages, which are designed specifically for multi-generational families.

Uniworld offers a wide range of itineraries in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. Each ship in the line is a boutique hotel on the water with a customized decor that depends on the specific destinations the ship is used on.

Passengers are accommodated in suites whose amenities include butler service and meals that use local produce from ports along the itinerary. All-inclusive offerings make this line even more attractive. The cost of the cruise covers all meals, unlimited wine and spirits, wellness activities, airport transfers, tips, Wi-Fi, etc.

Once disembarking at ports of call, travelers can expect free and premium excursions, including walking tours and private tours. It's also possible to explore the new area on your own, with free bike and Nordic walking stick rentals available.

Swan Hellenic

This small line is primarily known for its unusual routes in the Arctic and Antarctica. But it also sails through Central America, Peru, Mexico, Southwest Africa, and the fjords of Chile. Her interesting cruises are primarily for adults, although technically guests over the age of eight can be passengers. But since the voyages are expedition cruises and there are no kids' clubs on board, the ship's audience is made up almost entirely of the older generation.

Swan Hellenic's voyages cannot be called affordable, on the contrary, they are quite expensive. However, the price includes regional flights back to the embarkation/disembarkation port, meals on board, group transfers from the airport to the ship and the night before the cruise, 24-hour room service, lectures during the voyage, Wi-Fi, some alcoholic beverages, tips and one excursion in the port along the route.

Swan Hellenic's fleet consists of three small ships. Staterooms are spacious and stylish, with private bathrooms, thoughtful lighting, and a separate living room. The gastronomic experience is also up to par: the Swan dining room serves regional and international cuisine, there is a poolside barbecue and grill area, the club lounge offers afternoon tea or an interactive family dinner, and the lounge bar offers a cocktail and a beautiful panorama.