There are few vacations that are more relaxing than a cruise. With no place to be and no plans to make, they’re like floating havens of endless buffets and sunsets. That is, unless you’re surrounded by sugar-fueled kids cannonballing into the pool.
Don’t get me wrong, children-friendly cruises have their place. But they shouldn’t interfere with the serenity of the older crowds. Especially when you’ve got tranquil spa days and romantic dinners on the cards.
The truth is that some cruises are designed for families, while others cater to adults, couples, or long-term travelers. The trick is knowing which is which. Here are five tips and tricks to find some kid-free serenity at sea.
Travel Off-Season
Timing is everything with cruises. If you cruise during the summer holidays, you can expect kids to outnumber adults on the decks. But unless you’re a teacher or a parent, there should be no need to travel when school is out.
Rather, experience the calm between vacations. September and October are particularly dreamy in the Mediterranean. Other than the fact that there are no kids on board, added benefits are that the weather starts to cool, and the port cities aren’t flooded with tourists, either.
The quietest season for cruising in the Caribbean is between June and November, when monsoon showers are at their peak. During this time, fewer cruise ships sail the water, and those that do offer discounted fares to fill their rooms.
Choose Small Ships
Big ships mean bigger everything. Big crowds, big waterslides, and big chances of finding yourself trapped behind a kiddie conga line during cocktail hour. It makes sense – the larger the ship, the more there is of everything else for everyone.
Smaller ships, on the other hand, cater to a more intimate crowd. On these ships, you’ll be among other couples, retirees, and grown-up travelers. The vibe is a lot more sophisticated and boutique. And while there might be fewer waterslides and ziplines, there will be more cooking classes and adult-only pools.
Smaller ships often offer niche itineraries, like private expeditions or river cruises in port cities that are more geared towards an older crowd.
Book Longer Cruises
Families with kids usually stick to shorter cruise itineraries for a variety of reasons.
First of all, having kids is expensive. And taking them on long cruises can be exorbitant — especially if you have more than two kids who need separate rooms. Second, school schedules and holiday periods make extended travel tricky. And finally, there is only so long before a child’s patience is tested when being out at sea.
Longer cruisse lasting more than ten days are usually reserved for those without kids. These cruises can travel to far-flung destinations like the South Pacific, across the Atlantic, or around Scandinavian fjords. They’re built for travelers who can stay on a boat for a few days at a time.
Go Upscale
High-end cruise liners are designed for the more sophisticated, luxury-seeking traveler. While the odd family might be able to splurge on these trips with their kids, the majority of passengers will come without their families.
Cruise lines like Seabourne, Regent Seven Seas, and Hollard America Cruise Line are some of the more expensive. They deliver a more elevated experience, which is naturally geared towards adults. And by this, I mean they offer amenities and experiences like gourmet dining, movie theaters, and elegantly designed suites.
While bringing kids might technically be ‘allowed,’ the high price point makes it unlikely for the average family to spend so much on a family vacation.
Choose Adult-Only Cruises
If 100% certainty of a kid-free cruise is what you’re after, an adult-only cruise line would be the solution. These ships have regulations that only allow guests over the age of eighteen, ensuring an atmosphere that is curated exclusively for adults.
Cruise lines like Virgin Voyages are known for their adult-only cruise concepts. Without youngsters scattering the ship, it is easier to manage things like alcohol and general safety on board.
Instead of kiddies pools and clubs, onboard activities might range from wine tastings to cocktail-making classes and boutique fitness programs like yoga and pilates.
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