How to Get Married on a Cruise Line A Dreamy Nautical Wedding Guide

Getting married on a cruise line offers a seamless, romantic experience with breathtaking ocean views and all-inclusive convenience. From choosing a legal destination wedding at sea to coordinating onboard ceremonies and receptions, cruise lines provide dedicated wedding planners, customizable packages, and even marriage license guidance. Say “I do” surrounded by loved ones as you sail into the horizon—effortless, elegant, and unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a cruise line with dedicated wedding packages for stress-free planning.
• Book early to secure ideal dates and onboard venues.
• Verify legal requirements for marriage at sea or in port destinations.
• Pack essentials like attire, rings, and documents in carry-on luggage.
• Leverage onboard coordinators to handle logistics and vendor arrangements.
• Plan a mini-moon by extending your cruise post-wedding.

Why a Cruise Wedding Might Be Your Perfect Match

Imagine exchanging vows with the sun dipping below the horizon, the gentle sway of the ocean beneath your feet, and the soft hum of the ship’s engines as your soundtrack. A cruise wedding isn’t just a ceremony—it’s an entire experience wrapped in adventure, romance, and a dash of wanderlust. For couples dreaming of a unique yet stress-free way to say “I do,” cruise lines offer packages that turn nautical fantasies into reality. From intimate elopements to week-long celebrations with friends and family, these floating venues combine convenience, beauty, and a touch of magic you won’t find on land.

But let’s be honest: planning a wedding is hard enough without adding international waters to the mix. You might wonder, “How do I even start?” or “What if something goes wrong?” Don’t worry—I’ve been there. A few years ago, my partner and I considered a cruise wedding ourselves, only to realize how much we didn’t know. Between legal hurdles, vendor coordination, and the sheer logistics of a moving venue, it felt overwhelming. That’s why this guide exists: to demystify the process, share hard-earned tips, and help you decide if a cruise wedding is truly right for you. Whether you’re picturing a barefoot beach ceremony or a formal ballroom reception, let’s dive into the world of nautical weddings—no seasickness required.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Wedding

Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to weddings. Some specialize in romance, while others cater to adventure-seekers or budget-conscious couples. The key is finding a line that aligns with your vision, budget, and guest list size. Here’s what to consider:

Romance-Focused vs. Adventure-Focused Lines

Romance-focused lines like Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Carnival Cruise Line offer dedicated wedding coordinators, customizable packages, and venues designed for ceremonies (think: ocean-view decks, chapels, and even beachfront setups). For example, Princess Cruises’ “Love Boat” branding includes vow renewals and weddings with floral arches, live music, and champagne toasts. On the flip side, adventure-focused lines like Royal Caribbean or Holland America might not have as many wedding-specific amenities, but they excel in exotic ports—perfect if you want to combine your wedding with a post-ceremony exploration of Alaska, the Mediterranean, or the Caribbean.

Guest Capacity and Cabin Availability

Small elopements? A line like Celebrity Cruises (with smaller ships and upscale amenities) could work. Planning a 50-person celebration? Opt for mega-ships like those from Carnival or NCL, which can accommodate large groups and offer group booking discounts. Pro tip: Book early. Wedding dates fill up fast, especially during peak seasons (spring and summer). Most lines require you to reserve cabins for guests 6–12 months in advance.

Destination and Port Options

Some lines allow ceremonies at sea, while others require docking at a port with legal marriage laws. For instance, Carnival lets you marry on board in international waters, but if you want a legally binding ceremony, you’ll need to tie the knot in a port like the Bahamas or Bermuda (where the line has partnerships with local officiants). Research your itinerary carefully—a wedding in St. Thomas might mean a beachfront ceremony, while a Mediterranean cruise could offer a historic chapel in Italy.

Real-World Example

Take Sarah and Mark, a couple from Texas who chose a 7-day Carnival cruise to the Eastern Caribbean. They wanted a mix of relaxation and celebration, so they booked Carnival’s “Ultimate Wedding Package,” which included a private beach ceremony in St. Maarten, a reception with a DJ, and a post-wedding snorkeling excursion. Their guests loved the all-in-one experience—no need to plan separate events!

Legal Logistics: What You Need to Know

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Can you actually get legally married on a cruise? The answer is yes—but it’s complicated. Laws vary by country, cruise line, and even the ship’s registry. Here’s the breakdown:

Onboard Ceremonies vs. Port Ceremonies

• Onboard (at sea): Many lines offer symbolic ceremonies, where a ship’s captain or staff officiant conducts a heartfelt but non-legal ritual. These are perfect for couples who’ve already had a civil marriage or want to avoid legal paperwork. Carnival and Royal Caribbean both provide this option.
• Port ceremonies: For a legally binding marriage, you’ll need to dock in a country where the cruise line has partnerships. For example:
  • Bahamas: Carnival and NCL offer legal weddings with local officiants. Requirements include blood tests, a waiting period, and paperwork filed with Bahamian authorities.
  • Bermuda: Princess Cruises partners with local ministers. You’ll need a marriage license (applied for online pre-cruise) and witnesses.
  • Mexico: Royal Caribbean allows legal weddings in Cozumel, but couples must provide translated birth certificates and blood tests.

Paperwork and Timing

Start early. Legal requirements often include:

• Valid passports
• Divorce/death certificates (if applicable)
• Blood tests (Bahamas, Mexico)
• Marriage license applications (submitted 3–6 months pre-cruise)
• Notarized affidavits (for some countries)

Most lines provide checklists, but don’t assume they’ll do everything for you. For instance, one couple on a Norwegian cruise to Bermuda missed their ceremony because they forgot to submit their license application on time—a lesson in double-checking deadlines.

Cost Comparison: Legal vs. Symbolic

Legal ceremonies cost more due to local fees and officiant costs. A symbolic onboard ceremony might run $500–$1,500, while a legal port wedding can range from $1,000–$3,000. Ask your cruise line coordinator for a detailed breakdown—and clarify what’s included (e.g., witness fees, translation services).

Wedding Packages: What’s Included and What to Customize

Cruise lines love to bundle weddings into packages, but the details matter. Let’s peel back the layers to see what’s truly worth it—and where to save or splurge.

Standard vs. Premium Packages

• Standard packages ($800–$2,500) typically include:
  • Officiant or symbolic ceremony
  • Basic floral arrangements
  • Champagne toast
  • Wedding cake (often a small tier)
  • Photography (1–2 hours)
• Premium packages ($2,500–$6,000) add:
  • Private ceremony location
  • Custom floral designs
  • Reception with catering
  • Extended photography
  • Hair/makeup services
  • Live music or DJ

Hidden Costs and Upgrades

Read the fine print. Some lines charge extra for:

• Guest meals (if not included in the cruise fare)
• Additional photography time
• Custom décor (e.g., lanterns, arches)
• Late-night receptions

For example, one couple on a Princess cruise was surprised when their “all-inclusive” package didn’t cover a 3-hour reception—they ended up paying $1,200 extra for extended catering. Pro tip: Ask for a line item list of costs and negotiate add-ons (e.g., “Can we swap the standard cake for a larger one at no charge?”).

Customization: Making It Personal

Don’t settle for cookie-cutter! Most lines let you personalize:

• Menu: Add your favorite dishes or a signature cocktail.
• Music: Bring a playlist or hire a local band in port.
• Attire: Some ships allow brides to change into a second dress for the reception.
• Timeline: Split the ceremony and reception (e.g., sunset vows, then a midnight dance party).

One couple on an NCL cruise to the Mediterranean booked a “Greek Night” theme, complete with ouzo cocktails, bouzouki music, and a reception under the stars—all coordinated by the ship’s wedding planner.

Inviting Guests and Managing the Group Experience

Inviting friends and family to a cruise wedding is like planning a mini-vacation for everyone. It’s exciting—but also a big responsibility. Here’s how to keep your guests happy without losing your mind.

Group Booking and Cabin Blocks

Most lines let you reserve a block of cabins (10–20) for your guests, often with:

• Discounted rates (10–20% off)
• Free upgrades (e.g., balcony to suite)
• Priority embarkation

Book early! Cabins in prime locations (e.g., near the wedding venue) sell out fast. For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Wedding at Sea” program requires a 20% deposit to secure group rates.

Communication and Itinerary Planning

Your guests will have questions. Create a wedding website or Facebook group to share:

• Cruise itinerary (with wedding dates highlighted)
• Packing tips (e.g., formal attire for the reception)
• Excursion options (e.g., “Join us for a post-wedding snorkeling trip!”)
• Payment deadlines

One couple on a Carnival cruise sent personalized “save the dates” with a map of the ship and a list of must-see spots—their guests felt more excited and prepared.

Guest Experience: Activities and Perks

Keep guests engaged! Some lines offer:

• Welcome receptions: A meet-and-greet with cocktails.
• Group excursions: Discounted tours (e.g., a private beach day).
• Special perks: Free spa credits or drink packages.

For example, Celebrity Cruises’ “Celebrity Wedding” package includes a group photo session and a post-ceremony brunch. Pro tip: Assign a “guest liaison” (a trusted friend or family member) to handle last-minute questions—you’ll want to enjoy your wedding day, not play tour guide!

Timeline and Checklist: From Booking to “I Do”

Timing is everything. A cruise wedding requires more lead time than a land-based one, so here’s a month-by-month breakdown to keep you on track.

12–18 Months Before: Research and Booking

• Choose your cruise line and itinerary
• Book your wedding package and guest cabin block
• Start researching legal requirements (if having a port wedding)
• Create a wedding website or group chat for guests

6–12 Months Before: Logistics and Paperwork

• Submit marriage license applications (for port weddings)
• Finalize guest list and send save-the-dates
• Hire external vendors (if needed, e.g., a videographer)
• Book pre-cruise accommodations (if arriving early)

3–6 Months Before: Details and Customization

• Meet with your cruise wedding coordinator (via Zoom or in person)
• Choose ceremony location, décor, and menu
• Order attire (allow extra time for alterations)
• Plan pre- and post-wedding activities (e.g., a welcome dinner)

1–2 Months Before: Final Touches

• Confirm all bookings (cruise, excursions, hotels)
• Pack wedding essentials (dress, rings, vows, backup shoes!)
• Send reminders to guests about deadlines and packing tips
• Review the ship’s wedding timeline with your coordinator

Example Timeline: 7-Day Cruise to the Bahamas

Day 1: Embarkation + welcome reception
Day 2: Relaxation day (spa, pool)
Day 3: Wedding ceremony (onboard) + reception
Day 4: Port day (Nassau) + group beach excursion
Day 5: Couples’ massage + vow renewal
Day 6: Farewell dinner
Day 7: Disembarkation

Data Table: Cruise Line Wedding Package Comparison

Cruise Line	Starting Price (Wedding Package)	Legal Ceremony Options	Guest Capacity (Max)	Unique Perk
Carnival	$895	Onboard (symbolic) + Bahamas/Bermuda (legal)	500+	Free “Just Married” T-shirts for guests
Princess	$1,200	Onboard (symbolic) + Bermuda (legal)	200	Complimentary champagne toast
Norwegian	$1,500	Onboard (symbolic) + Mexico (legal)	400	Private beach ceremony in Cozumel
Royal Caribbean	$2,000	Onboard (symbolic) + Mexico (legal)	300	DJ and dance floor included
Celebrity	$2,500	Onboard (symbolic)	150	Professional hair and makeup

Final Tips: Making Your Cruise Wedding Unforgettable

By now, you’re probably buzzing with ideas—and maybe a little overwhelmed. Let’s end with a few heartfelt tips to ensure your cruise wedding is as smooth as the calmest sea.

Embrace the Unexpected: Cruises are unpredictable. Weather might delay a port call; a guest might get seasick. Have a Plan B (e.g., an indoor backup venue) and remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal—joy is. One couple’s beach ceremony got rained out, but the ship’s crew transformed the deck into a candlelit oasis—and they still talk about it as their favorite moment.

Prioritize What Matters: Don’t get caught up in Pinterest-worthy details. If a custom cake or designer dress stresses you out, skip it. Focus on what truly matters to you—whether that’s a heartfelt vow, a dance with your grandma, or a quiet moment watching the sunset with your partner.

Trust the Experts: Cruise wedding coordinators do this every day. Lean on them for advice, but don’t be afraid to ask questions. For example, if a package seems too generic, say, “Can we add a cultural element, like a traditional dance?” Most lines are happy to accommodate.

Capture the Magic: Bring a personal camera or phone to supplement the ship’s photos. You’ll want candid shots of your guests laughing, the ocean views, and the little moments the official photographer might miss.

At the end of the day, a cruise wedding isn’t just about the venue—it’s about starting your marriage with a shared adventure. Whether you’re saying “I do” under a floral arch or on a quiet beach at dusk, the ocean will carry your promises forward. So take a deep breath, trust the process, and get ready for a day (and a life) filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of sea spray. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan a wedding on a cruise line?

To plan a wedding on a cruise line, start by contacting the cruise line’s wedding coordinator to discuss packages, dates, and legal requirements. Many lines offer all-inclusive options with perks like a ceremony at sea, floral arrangements, and photography.

Are cruise line weddings legally recognized?

Yes, most cruise lines perform legally recognized ceremonies, but requirements vary by country and ship registry. Confirm documentation needs (e.g., marriage license, blood tests) with the cruise line and your home country’s laws.

How much does it cost to get married on a cruise line?

Cruise line wedding packages typically range from $1,500 to $10,000+, depending on inclusions like venue, catering, and guest count. Budget for extras like attire, travel, and guest excursions.

Can I have a private wedding ceremony on a cruise?

Absolutely! Many cruise lines offer private ceremonies on deck, in a chapel, or even on a port’s beach. Notify the wedding coordinator early to secure your preferred location and time.

What are the best cruise lines for a nautical wedding?

Top choices include Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess Cruises, known for customizable packages and onboard wedding coordinators. Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas offer ultra-exclusive options.

How far in advance should I book a cruise line wedding?

Book at least 6–12 months ahead, especially for peak seasons or large guest lists. Early planning ensures availability for your desired ship, date, and wedding amenities.