Wondering what are the best cruises for young adults and should you even take a cruise or is cruising just for old farts?
Cruises offer the perfect vacation option for those seeking a laid-back and entertaining holiday experience. It’s a time to unwind, enjoy the onboard entertainment, and indulge in relaxation. And young people even college students enjoy that too I have to say!
In the past, cruises stereotypically were associated with an older demographic. And yes, it’s true that oldies still really like cruises…. BUT cruise lines have recently realized that they can also be an appealing vacation to a younger group of travelers too and certain cruise lines have started catering to a younger market, which is why cruises have gained increasing popularity among young adults.
If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you might be wondering which cruise lines are best suited for your age group and which cater for a younger market.
One of the top choices for young adults seeking an adventure-filled journey is Carnival Cruise Lines. Known for hosting the best parties at sea, Carnival Cruise Lines offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. We have seen younger travelers really get into cruising on Carnival even getting matching cruise shirts.
Royal Caribbean is another popular option, offering exciting onboard activities such as watersports and live entertainment, making it an ideal choice for young adventurers.
For those looking for vacation packages within their budget, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of options, including awesome Free at Sea promotions which include Free NCL Drink Packages – always a win and something we love about NCL.
With numerous excellent cruise lines to consider, partaking in onboard activities and entertainment is an integral part of the cruise experience. Today, we’ll delve into some of the best cruise lines for young adults – that aren’t just for greybeards. We are in our 30s and have been cruising regularly since our 20s so we know a think or two about cruises for young people, including the party cruise for college students, whats good and whats not.
9 Best Cruises for Young Adults You Must Try!
Royal Caribbean
Cost: $70 to $6,365 | Trip Length: 2 nights to 19 nights (generally)
Royal Caribbean stands out as one of the most popular cruise lines for young adults, thanks to its great deals and attractive prices.
Travelers can embark on an unforgettable journey aboard one of Royal Caribbean’s award-winning ships without breaking the bank. What sets this cruise line apart is its frequent sales and opportunities to save money on your trip.
It’s also a fun cruise line and not too fuddy-duddy. They are continually improving their product to appeal to a younger market.
Why Young Adults Choose Royal Caribbean: Every Royal Caribbean cruise ship is designed to deliver the ultimate sea adventure. Onboard, you’ll find a wide range of activities, including water parks and rock climbing walls. The ships boast a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars, offering live entertainment. And when you’re in need of some relaxation, tranquil lounge areas with nearby bars await.
Best Royal Caribbean Cruises For Young Adults (Examples, cruise itineraries constantly change)
- Perfect Day Getaway Cruise:This 2-night cruise departs from Orlando, FL, taking travelers to CocoCay in the Bahamas.
- Western Caribbean Cruise: Embark on a 7-night cruise from Galveston, TX, exploring Roatan, Honduras, as well as Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.
- Fall Foliage Southbound Cruise: Depart from Quebec City on this 11-night cruise, exploring stunning locations throughout Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Maine, and New Jersey.
Get the best deals on your Royal Caribbean cruise here.
Norwegian Cruise
Cost: $261 to $9,518 | Trip Length: 2 days to 21 days (generally)
Norwegian Cruise Line offers an extensive range of options, making it an excellent choice for young adults. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury, this cruise line has something for everyone.
Why Young Adults Choose Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line prides itself on providing a freestyle vacation experience, allowing guests to enjoy activities on their own schedule. Onboard, travelers can indulge in activity zones, deck parties, and gourmet meals from a variety of restaurants. I really like that there is no set schedule with Norwegian making it better for young people.
Norwegian cruises is one of our personal favorite cruise lines. We recently came back from a trip on the Norwegian Star and had a great time. If you are hoping for more of a party cruise with Norwegian we would suggest booking a Bahamas or Caribbean cruise.
Best Norwegian Cruise Line Cruises For Young Adults (Examples, cruise itineraries constantly change):
- Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau, & Ketchikan: This 7-day cruise sets sail from Seattle, WA, taking guests to several stunning destinations in Alaska before journeying to Victoria, British Columbia.
- Mediterranean: Italy, France, & Spain: Depart from Barcelona, Spain, on this 9-day cruise, exploring captivating locations throughout Spain, France, Italy, Sardinia, and Majorca.
Get the best deals on your Norwegian cruise here.
Carnival Cruise Lines
Cost: $100 to $2,600 | Trip Length: 2 days to 18 days (generally)
Carnival Cruise Lines has emerged as a top choice for young adults seeking non-stop fun and excitement. With a plethora of different cruise options, the party never stops aboard these ships. One of the best cruise options for college students looking for a good time on spring break
Why Young Adults Choose Carnival Cruise Lines: Exciting onboard activities are the main draw for young adults. Travelers can enjoy thrilling experiences like ziplining, family feud games, or exhilarating water slides.
The ships also feature relaxing spas, ensuring everyone gets a chance to unwind and rejuvenate. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Lines offers spacious and comfortable suites, adding to the appeal for young travelers.
Best Carnival Cruise Lines Cruises For Young Adults (Examples, cruise itineraries constantly change):
- Baja Mexico- Carnival Radiance: This 4-day cruise departs from Long Beach in Los Angeles, CA, taking travelers to Catalina Island and Ensenada.
- The Bahamas- Carnival Liberty: Depart from Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL, on this 3-day cruise, exploring Bimini, an island in the western district of the Bahamas.
- Eastern Caribbean- Carnival Elation: Embark on a 7-day cruise from Jacksonville, FL, visiting Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, and Nassau.
Get the best deals on your carnival cruise here.
MSC Cruises
Price Range: $119 to $3791 | Trip Duration: 1 night to 117 nights (generally)
MSC Cruises takes pride in offering incredible deals on cruises to top vacation destinations worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a longer getaway or a quick weekend cruise, MSC Cruises has you covered.
Why Young Adults Choose MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises ensures a safe and enjoyable travel experience for young adults. Onboard, you can engage in a variety of activities, including the casino, 4D cinema, and mini bowling. Guests can also savor award-winning entertainment and explore an onboard art gallery. Numerous bars, lounges, restaurants, and buffets cater to your dining and entertainment needs.
Best MSC Cruises Trips for Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)
- Caribbean & Bahamas: Embark on an 8-day cruise from Port Canaveral in Orlando, FL, and explore various enchanting locations in the Bahamas and Mexico.
- Mediterranean: Enjoy a 7-night trip departing from Venice, Italy. This itinerary takes you to captivating destinations like Kotor, Montenegro, Mykonos and Santorini in Greece, and concludes in Bari, Italy, before returning to Venice.
Get the best deals on your MSC cruise here.
Celebrity Cruises
Price Range: $169 to $20,910 | Trip Duration: 3 nights to 12 nights (generally)
Young adults are drawn to Celebrity Cruises for a taste of the celebrity treatment. This cruise line offers award-winning experiences that take you to some of the most sought-after vacation destinations worldwide.
Why Young Adults Choose Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its tranquil and luxurious ambiance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation at sea. The Retreat provides an exclusive retreat for guests to unwind in a luxury lounge, soak up the sun on the sundeck, or indulge in a meal at a private restaurant.
Best Celebrity Cruises Trips for Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)
- Ultimate Southern Caribbean Cruise: Embark on a 10-night adventure from Fort Lauderdale, FL, exploring stunning destinations such as Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, and St. Kitts & Nevis.
- Western Caribbean Cruise: Set sail on a 7-night journey from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, FL, with stops at Belize City and Cozumel, Mexico, followed by a visit to Bimini, Bahamas, before returning to Fort Lauderdale.
Get the best deal on your celebrity cruise here.
Disney Cruise Line
Price Range: $1014 to $4747 | Trip Duration: 2 nights to 14 nights (generally)
Disney Cruise Line proves that it’s not just for kids. People of all age groups can embark on a truly magical vacation with Disney’s renowned cruise line. After all, there’s no age limit to experiencing the enchantment of Disney.
Why Young Adults Choose Disney Cruise Line: Disney cruise ships transport passengers to stunning destinations worldwide, offering a perfect blend of adventure and entertainment. Young adults are captivated by the vibrant onboard atmosphere, featuring world-class live entertainment, an extensive selection of dining options, and lively parties. Plus, there’s always a chance to meet beloved Disney characters. And no thats not just for kids!
Best Disney Cruise Line Trips for Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)
- Baja Cruise: Embark on a 5-night cruise from San Diego, CA to the charming city of Ensenada, Mexico.
- 3-Night Bahamian Cruise: Set sail on a 3-night excursion from Miami, FL to the captivating Nassau, Bahamas.
Get the best deal on your Disney cruise here.
Seabourn
Cost: $3,748 to $99,248 | Trip Length: 7 days to 6 months
Seabourn entices travelers with its smaller ships boasting spacious suites, providing exceptional value with all-inclusive travel packages.
Why Young Adults Choose Seabourn: Seabourn caters to an adult-oriented experience, although children are welcome onboard. The atmosphere and activities are tailored for adults, offering opportunities to relax at the spa, engage in fitness activities, and attend intriguing travel lectures.
Exceptional gourmet cuisine and top-notch hospitality further enhance the appeal of Seabourn cruises.
Best Seabourn Cruises For Young Adults:
- Glaciers & Alaska Inside Passage: Embark on a 7-day cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, in Canada, and arrive in Juneau, Alaska, while marveling at the breathtaking glaciers.
- Wonders Of Western Iceland: Embark on a 7-day excursion from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Reykjavik, Iceland, exploring the wonders of Iceland’s western region.
- Riviera Romance: Embark on an 8-day cruise from Monte Carlo, Monaco, and experience the most romantic Mediterranean destinations such as Palamos and Ibiza.
Get the best price on your Seabourn cruise here.
Oceania Cruises
Cost: $1299 to $65,649 | Trip Length: 7 days to 218 days (generally)
Oceania Cruises simplifies the process of booking your dream cruise, offering risk-free planning and competitive rates. Couples can even take advantage of 2-for-1 fares upon occasion.
Why Young Adults Choose Oceania Cruises: Oceania Cruises elegant and cozy ambiance, coupled with fine dining options, further enhances the appeal for young adults.
Best Oceania Cruises Trips For Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary)
- Barcelona to Athens: Embark on a 14-day cruise journey from Barcelona, Spain, to Athens, Greece, with stops at captivating destinations in Malta, Israel, Turkey, and Greece.
- Rome to Miami: Set sail on a 16-day cruise departing from Rome, Italy, and concluding in Miami, Florida. Explore various enchanting locations in France, Spain, the UK, Antigua, and Puerto Rico.
Book the best deal with Oceania on expedia.
Silversea
Cost: $3950 to $119,600 | Trip Length: 5 days to 140 days
Renowned for its small luxury cruise ships, Silversea offers a lavish vacation experience while exploring the world’s finest destinations.
Why Young Adults Choose Silversea: Silversea is the epitome of luxury cruises, providing round-the-clock butler services to cater to every passenger’s needs. The onboard team excels in delivering personal and friendly service, ensuring a memorable voyage.
Best Silversea Cruises For Young Adults (Examples of cruises that have run in the past, current itineraries may vary):
- Galapagos Islands: Embark on a 7-day cruise from San Cristobal, Galapagos, in Ecuador, and explore stunning destinations such as Kicker Rock and Isla Bartolome.
- American West Coast: Embark on an 11-day cruise starting from Vancouver, British Columbia, and culminating in San Diego, California. Experience the allure of Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco along the way.
- Mediterranean: Embark on a 7-day cruise departing from Fusina, Venice, in Italy, and discover captivating destinations in Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and Montenegro.
Get the best deal on a SilverSea cruise with cruisedirect here.
Why Choose Cruises as a Vacation Option as a Young Adult?
In recent years, young adults, including college students and young professionals, have increasingly discovered the appeal of cruises. Cruises have also changed over the years and adapted their activities to reach a younger market who have shown an interest in cruising as their vacation.
The allure of cruises lies in the abundance of activities, entertainment, and the opportunity to explore new destinations, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the world.
The all-inclusive nature of cruises is one of the primary reasons people opt for this type of vacation. With accommodations, meals, and entertainment bundled into a single package, travelers can indulge in a hassle-free getaway that often provides excellent value for their money. Why stay in a hostel when you can cruise for the same $?
Tailored cruises for 21-year-olds and other young adults strike the perfect balance between relaxation, excitement, and cultural immersion. Leading cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line specifically cater to this demographic by offering age-specific activities, parties, and events that create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere onboard.
Moreover, many cruise lines now curate themed voyages centered around specific interests, such as music festivals, wellness retreats, or adventure excursions, making cruises an ideal vacation choice for young travelers.
Top Pick: Best Cruise for Young Adults in 2023
Our top pick for the best cruise tailored for young adults in 2023 is the Norwegian Encore by Norwegian Cruise Line. This cutting-edge ship provides an exceptional combination of entertainment, dining options, and onboard activities specifically designed to cater to the preferences and interests of young adults, ensuring an unforgettable cruise experience.
We really love the Norwegian brand (we’re now sapphire members and started cruising with them in our 20s) so it comes as no surprise that Norwegian came out on top for us. We think it is a great cruise brand for younger people.
The Norwegian Encore stands out with its extensive array of onboard activities. Young adults can embrace the excitement of the largest race track at sea, the Encore Speedway, or engage in thrilling competitions at the open-air laser tag arena. Additionally, the ship features a remarkable aqua park with multi-story waterslides and splash zones, offering plenty of fun-filled moments. For those seeking relaxation and wellness, the Mandara Spa & Salon and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club offer serene retreats.
Entertainment on the Norwegian Encore is truly exceptional. Guests can enjoy world-class Broadway-style productions like “Kinky Boots” and “The Choir of Man,” as well as live music performances and comedy shows.
The ship’s diverse bars and lounges, such as the Skyline Bar with its panoramic ocean views and the interactive Galaxy Pavilion, create a vibrant and social atmosphere for mingling and making new connections. The Norwegian Encore excels in its dining options as well.
With over 20 different dining venues, ranging from Italian cuisine to Japanese delicacies, guests can savor a wide variety of culinary experiences, from casual eateries to specialty restaurants offering international flavors.
The ship’s Freestyle Dining concept allows guests the freedom to dine whenever and wherever they prefer, without fixed dining times or assigned seating. This is something which I think is great you young people.
Lastly, the Norwegian Encore offers an enticing selection of itineraries that cater to the adventurous spirits of young adults. With destinations such as the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Mexican Riviera, these itineraries feature exciting ports of call, enabling guests to partake in exhilarating shore excursions, immerse themselves in local culture, and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities.
See best deals for sailing the Norwegian encore here.
A meal in the signature french restaurant on Norwegian
Best Party Cruises for Young Adults
When it comes to the best party cruises for young adults, we have three outstanding options that guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Choose any of these three options for an exhilarating party cruise, tailored to the preferences of young adults seeking lively and vibrant onboard experiences.
Carnival Vista by Carnival Cruise Line
Known as the “Fun Ships,” Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and energetic nightlife, making the Carnival Vista an ideal choice for young adults seeking a party-centric cruise.
The ship offers a variety of bars, lounges, and clubs, including the lively RedFrog Rum Bar, the vibrant BlueIguana Tequila Bar, and the energetic Liquid Nightclub. Themed parties and deck parties add to the excitement, ensuring non-stop entertainment for party enthusiasts.
Get the best deals on Carnival Vista with expedia here.
Harmony of the Seas by Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas promises an exhilarating nightlife scene for young adults looking for a party cruise. The ship boasts a dynamic array of bars and lounges, such as the innovative Bionic Bar, the lively Boleros, and the inviting Boot & Bonnet Pub.
The highlight of the ship’s entertainment is Club Twenty, an onboard nightclub featuring a talented DJ, a spacious dance floor, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for late-night revelry. With themed parties and events, the ship keeps the energy high throughout the journey.
Get the best deals on Harmony of the Seas with expedia here.
Scarlet Lady by Virgin Voyages
For a unique and upscale party cruise experience exclusively for adults, consider Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady. This cruise line creates a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance while offering ample opportunities for late-night fun.
The ship features a range of stylish bars and lounges, including the extravagant Manor nightclub, inspired by Richard Branson’s personal recording studio. Virgin Voyages also hosts themed parties and events like the Scarlet Night Party and the Aquatic Club, providing young adults with an unforgettable party experience in an upscale and modern environment.
Get the best rate on Virgin Voyages with cruisedirect here
Best Mediterranean Cruises for Young Adults
If you’re a young adult seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean cruise, we have three outstanding options that will satisfy your wanderlust. Let’s explore them in detail:
Odyssey of the Seas by Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This innovative ship boasts a wide range of exciting onboard activities, dining options, and entertainment.
You can catch a wave on the surfing simulator, experience the thrill of skydiving in the onboard simulator, or enjoy bumper cars and roller skating at the SeaPlex, an indoor sports complex.
The itineraries take you to iconic Mediterranean destinations such as Rome, Barcelona, and the Greek Islands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the region.
Note: Itineraries change and this ship is not always in the Mediterranean.
Get the best deals on Odyssey of the Seas by Royal Caribbean with expedia here.
Norwegian Epic by Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Epic is renowned for its Freestyle Cruising concept, providing young adults with the freedom to customize their vacation experience. The ship offers an array of dining options, a vibrant nightlife scene, and world-class entertainment like the famous Cirque Dreams and Dinner show.
With stops at popular Mediterranean destinations like Cannes, Naples, and Majorca, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the region’s rich history and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.
Note: Itineraries change and this ship is not always in the Mediterranean.
Get the best deals on Norwegian epic here.
Best Cruises for Single Young Adults
If you’re a single young adult looking for an exciting and social cruise experience, we have three fantastic options tailored to your needs. Let’s explore them in detail:
Norwegian Getaway by Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Getaway tops our list with its exceptional amenities and entertainment options specifically designed for solo travelers. The ship features Studio staterooms, offering comfortable accommodations exclusively for single guests. These staterooms grant access to the Studio Lounge, a dedicated social space where you can connect with fellow solo travelers and forge new friendships. They also have LGQT meet ups for solo gay, trans, queer etc travelers.
With the ship’s Freestyle Dining concept and diverse entertainment choices, including live performances and themed parties, mingling with other guests in a relaxed and casual atmosphere is effortless.
Get the best rates on the Norwegian getaway here.
Anthem of the Seas by Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas is another excellent choice for single young adults seeking adventure and social connections.
The ship offers an array of activities and entertainment options that cater to solo travelers, such as the thrilling RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, the captivating North Star observation capsule, and the immersive Vistarama shows in the Two70 lounge.
Solo guests can enjoy the spacious Virtual Balcony staterooms, providing real-time ocean views. With multiple dining venues and a vibrant nightlife scene, there are ample opportunities to meet like-minded guests and create lasting memories.
Book your cruise here.
Scarlet Lady by Virgin Voyages
For a more adult-focused cruise experience, consider Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady.
This adults-only ship provides amenities tailored to solo travelers, including Social Insider cabins designed specifically for single guests. The ship offers a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of onboard activities, such as fitness classes, spa treatments, and cooking demonstrations, providing numerous opportunities to socialize and connect with fellow travelers.
The lively bars, lounges, and themed parties create the perfect setting for single young adults to have a fun and unforgettable cruise experience. Choose any of these three options for a remarkable cruise adventure as a single young adult.
Book your virgin cruise here.
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So are you up for trying a cruise for your vacation?
Whether you’re seeking adventure, luxury, or relaxation, there’s a cruise line that’s perfect for your young adult getaway. Embark on a memorable journey, create lifelong memories, and find the cruise line that matches your travel preferences.
