What Is the Best Cruise Line to Get Married On for a Dream Wedding at Sea

Celebrity Cruises stands out as the best cruise line to get married on, offering luxurious venues, personalized wedding packages, and stunning oceanfront ceremonies at sea. With dedicated wedding planners, gourmet catering, and options for intimate or grand celebrations, their seamless service and elegant ships make it the top choice for a dream wedding on the water.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Royal Caribbean: Best for large, customizable weddings with diverse venues and modern amenities.
• Pick Carnival Cruise: Ideal for fun, budget-friendly ceremonies with lively onboard entertainment.
• Opt for Princess Cruises: Offers elegant packages with scenic backdrops and professional wedding planners.
• Consider Disney Cruise: Perfect for fairytale weddings with themed décor and family-friendly perks.
• Book early: Secure preferred dates, venues, and onboard wedding coordinators well in advance.
• Review legal requirements: Confirm destination marriage laws and documentation needs before sailing.

Setting Sail for Love: Why a Cruise Wedding Could Be Your Dream Come True

Imagine exchanging vows with your beloved on a sun-drenched deck, the ocean stretching endlessly in every direction, the gentle rhythm of waves providing a natural soundtrack to your love story. This is the magic of a wedding at sea, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends the romance of a destination wedding with the convenience and luxury of a cruise vacation. For couples seeking a unique, stress-free, and unforgettable way to celebrate their union, a cruise line wedding offers an unparalleled combination of elegance, adventure, and personalized service.

But with so many cruise lines offering wedding packages, how do you choose the best one for your dream day? From intimate elopements to lavish onboard ceremonies and post-wedding celebrations in exotic ports, the options are vast and varied. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of cruise weddings, exploring the top cruise lines renowned for their exceptional wedding services, stunning venues, and seamless planning. We’ll delve into the unique strengths of each, compare their offerings, and provide practical tips to ensure your best cruise line to get married on truly reflects your vision and budget. Whether you envision a traditional ceremony, a themed celebration, or a simple vow renewal, your perfect nautical wedding is within reach.

Why Choose a Cruise Line for Your Wedding: The Irresistible Advantages

Choosing a cruise line for your wedding isn’t just about the stunning backdrop; it’s about embracing a unique set of advantages that traditional land-based venues often can’t match. The all-inclusive nature of cruises simplifies logistics, offering a stress-free experience that lets you focus on what truly matters: your love and your celebration.

Unmatched Convenience & Stress Reduction

One of the biggest draws is the sheer convenience. Forget coordinating with multiple vendors for catering, decor, music, and photography across different locations. A cruise line acts as a one-stop shop. Most offer comprehensive wedding packages that bundle essential services:

• Officiant Services: Licensed ship’s officers or pre-arranged officiants (often including non-denominational, religious, or civil options).
• Onboard Coordination: Dedicated wedding planners handle timelines, permits (where required), and vendor coordination.
• Venue & Setup: Beautifully decorated ceremony and reception spaces (decks, lounges, ballrooms) with tables, chairs, linens, and basic floral arrangements.
• Food & Beverage: Customized menus, wedding cakes, champagne toasts, and bar service options (open, cash, or package-based).
• Entertainment: Access to ship bands, DJs, or pre-arranged performers for your reception.
• Photography/Videography: Onboard photographers/videographers or the ability to bring your own.
• Legalities: Assistance with documentation, especially for marriages performed in international waters (subject to specific cruise line and flag state regulations).

This all-in-one approach dramatically reduces the planning burden and potential for last-minute surprises, letting you relax and enjoy the journey.

Stunning & Unique Venues

Forget generic ballrooms! Cruise lines offer a breathtaking array of unique wedding venues:

• Outdoor Decks: Exchange vows against the backdrop of a vibrant sunset, the open ocean, or a dramatic skyline (e.g., during a port arrival).
• Atriums & Grand Foyers: Elegant, multi-deck spaces with soaring ceilings, chandeliers, and lush greenery (common on Royal Caribbean, Norwegian).
• Specialty Lounges & Restaurants: Intimate settings like wine cellars, private dining rooms, or even onboard chapels (e.g., Princess Cruises’ “Wedding Chapel”).
• Private Islands: Some lines (Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival) offer exclusive access to pristine, private islands for beach weddings (e.g., CocoCay, Harvest Caye, Half Moon Cay).
• Port Weddings: Combine your ceremony with a destination wedding in a beautiful port city (e.g., Santorini, Venice, Nassau), with the cruise line handling the logistics.

The sheer variety ensures you can find a setting that perfectly matches your style, from rustic-chic to ultra-luxurious.

Built-in Honeymoon & Guest Accommodation

Your wedding seamlessly transitions into your honeymoon! The ship becomes your romantic retreat, offering:

• Honeymoon Suite: Many lines upgrade couples to luxurious suites with balconies, whirlpools, and special amenities.
• Romantic Dining: Specialty restaurants, private dining experiences, and room service.
• Spa & Wellness: Couples massages, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
• Adventure & Relaxation: Access to onboard activities (shows, pools, fitness) and shore excursions.
• Guest Convenience: Family and friends can easily attend, knowing their accommodation, meals, and entertainment are all included and centrally located. No need for separate hotels or transport coordination.

It’s the ultimate “two-for-one” celebration – wedding and honeymoon, all on one unforgettable journey.

Top Cruise Lines for Weddings: A Detailed Comparison

Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to weddings. Some have invested heavily in creating exceptional, specialized wedding programs. Here are the top contenders for the best cruise line to get married on, highlighting their unique strengths:

1. Royal Caribbean International: The Pioneer & Private Island Paradise

Strengths: Industry leader in wedding offerings, unparalleled private island access (Perfect Day at CocoCay), extensive onboard venues, and a dedicated “Wedding & Events” team.

• Signature Venues: The iconic Royal Promenade (with its bustling atmosphere and unique shops), elegant ballrooms, outdoor decks, and the breathtaking Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas (featuring the “Chill Island” beach, “Coco Beach Club” with cabanas, and even a “Wedding Garden” with a pergola). CocoCay weddings are a major draw, offering beachfront ceremonies with crystal-clear waters.
• Packages: “Wedding at Sea” (onboard), “Wedding on the Beach” (CocoCay), “Wedding in Paradise” (port wedding), and “Vow Renewal” packages. Packages include officiant, coordinator, basic decor, cake, champagne, photography, and more. Premium options offer floral arches, upgraded cakes, videography, and specialty catering.
• Extras: Dedicated wedding planner, online planning portal, ability to customize menus and decor, access to CocoCay’s private cabanas for the reception, and unique photo opportunities on the island (e.g., at the water park).
• Best For: Couples wanting a large, vibrant wedding with access to a world-class private island, those seeking extensive customization options, and those who love the energy of a big ship.
• Tip: Book your CocoCay wedding package months in advance, as slots fill up quickly. Consider the “Coco Beach Club” for a more exclusive beach experience.

2. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Flexibility & Private Island Access

Strengths: “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy translates to wedding flexibility, beautiful private island (Harvest Caye, Belize), and a strong focus on personalized service.

• Signature Venues: The Atrium (often with a stunning chandelier), outdoor decks with ocean views, specialty dining rooms (e.g., Le Bistro), and the lush, tropical Harvest Caye in Belize (featuring a private beach, lagoon, and Mayan ruins). Harvest Caye weddings offer a unique Central American vibe.
• Packages: “Wedding at Sea” (onboard), “Wedding on the Beach” (Harvest Caye), and “Destination Wedding” (port) packages. Includes officiant, coordinator, basic decor, cake, champagne, photography, and a keepsake certificate. “Signature” packages offer upgrades like floral arches, videography, and specialty catering.
• Extras: Dedicated wedding planner, online planning tools, ability to bring your own officiant (with approval), flexible dining options for receptions (use any restaurant), and the unique Harvest Caye experience with its lagoon and zip-lining.
• Best For: Couples who value flexibility, want a tropical private island wedding (Belize), prefer a less structured atmosphere, and enjoy having multiple dining options for their reception.
• Tip: Leverage NCL’s “Freestyle Dining” – you can host your reception in a specialty restaurant, giving it a more intimate and unique feel. Harvest Caye requires booking well in advance.

3. Princess Cruises: Elegance, Romance & The Wedding Chapel

Strengths: Renowned for elegance and romance, features a dedicated onboard wedding chapel, strong European port offerings, and a sophisticated ambiance.

• Signature Venues: The Wedding Chapel (a beautifully appointed, dedicated space on many ships, often with stained glass and an altar), elegant ballrooms, outdoor decks, and stunning port weddings in destinations like Santorini, Venice, or the Norwegian Fjords. The chapel offers a truly traditional, romantic setting.
• Packages: “Wedding at Sea” (onboard, including chapel use), “Wedding on the Beach” (selected ports), “Destination Wedding” (port), and “Vow Renewal” packages. Includes officiant, coordinator, basic decor (including chapel setup), cake, champagne, photography, and a keepsake certificate. “Deluxe” packages offer floral arches, videography, and upgraded catering.
• Extras: Dedicated wedding planner, chapel availability (a major unique selling point), access to European ports known for romantic settings, and a focus on creating a classic, timeless wedding experience.
• Best For: Couples seeking a traditional, elegant, and romantic wedding, those wanting the unique experience of a dedicated onboard chapel, and those who love European destinations for port weddings.
• Tip: The chapel is highly sought after – book your date and time slot as early as possible. Consider a port wedding in a classic European city for a truly iconic backdrop.

4. Carnival Cruise Line: Fun, Affordable & Private Island Access

Strengths: Most budget-friendly option, access to Half Moon Cay (Bahamas), fun and festive atmosphere, and good value packages.

• Signature Venues: Outdoor decks with ocean views, lounges, ballrooms, and the beautiful Half Moon Cay (Bahamas) – a pristine private island with a stunning crescent beach, clear waters, and a relaxed vibe. Half Moon Cay weddings offer a more laid-back, beachy feel.
• Packages: “Wedding at Sea” (onboard), “Wedding on the Beach” (Half Moon Cay), and “Vow Renewal” packages. Includes officiant, coordinator, basic decor, cake, champagne, photography, and a keepsake certificate. “Premium” packages offer floral arches, videography, and specialty catering. Generally the most affordable among the major lines.
• Extras: Dedicated wedding planner, online planning tools, access to Half Moon Cay’s beach and facilities, and a fun, energetic atmosphere perfect for a lively reception.
• Best For: Budget-conscious couples, those wanting a relaxed, beachy wedding on a private island, and couples who enjoy a fun, party-like atmosphere for their celebration.
• Tip: Carnival’s packages offer great value. Half Moon Cay is beautiful but book early. Consider a daytime beach wedding for the best photos.

5. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury & Sophisticated Style

Strengths: High-end, modern luxury, sophisticated ambiance, exceptional dining and service, and beautiful onboard venues.

• Signature Venues: Elegant atria with stunning art installations, outdoor decks with infinity pools, specialty dining rooms (e.g., Murano, Tuscan Grille), and ballrooms with high ceilings and modern decor. The focus is on refined, contemporary elegance.
• Packages: “Wedding at Sea” (onboard) and “Destination Wedding” (port) packages. Includes officiant, coordinator, basic decor, cake, champagne, photography, and a keepsake certificate. “Signature” and “Luxury” packages offer significant upgrades: premium floral arrangements, designer cakes, videography, specialty catering, spa treatments for the couple, and even private excursions.
• Extras: Dedicated wedding planner, access to Celebrity’s renowned specialty restaurants for receptions (a huge perk), high-quality onboard photography, and a focus on creating a luxurious, personalized experience. Strong European itineraries.
• Best For: Couples seeking a modern, sophisticated, and luxurious wedding experience, those who appreciate exceptional food and wine, and those wanting a more intimate, upscale atmosphere.
• Tip: Hosting your reception in a specialty restaurant like Murano (French) or Tuscan Grille (Italian) elevates the experience significantly. Book these well in advance.

Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Cruise Line

Beyond the specific line, several critical factors will determine the best cruise line to get married on for your unique needs. Careful consideration here ensures a smooth and joyful experience.

1. Budget: Packages, Add-Ons & Hidden Costs

Wedding packages vary widely in price and inclusions. Key considerations:

• Package Base Price: Compare the starting price for “Wedding at Sea” packages across lines (e.g., Carnival starts lower, Celebrity higher). This covers the essentials.
• Inclusions: Scrutinize what’s included. Does the base price include the officiant, coordinator, cake, and photography? Or are these add-ons? Some lines charge extra for basic items.
• Add-Ons & Upgrades: Costs for floral arches, videography, specialty cakes, premium catering, upgraded decor, spa treatments, and private excursions can quickly add up. Get a detailed quote.
• Bar Service: Open bar for the reception is a major cost. Some packages include it, others offer it as an add-on (often $25-$50+ per person). Cash bars are cheaper but less generous.
• Guest Costs: Remember, your guests need to pay for their cruise! Consider a shorter itinerary or off-peak sailing for affordability. Some lines offer group discounts.
• Hidden Costs: Taxes, gratuities (often added to bar bills and specialty dining), port fees, and potential visa costs for port weddings.

Tip: Get written quotes from at least 3 lines, specifying exactly what’s included and the cost of key upgrades. Factor in the cost of the cruise itself for you and your guests. Prioritize value, not just the lowest base price.

2. Guest Count & Ship Size

The number of guests significantly impacts your choice:

• Intimate Elopement (2-10): Any line works. Focus on ambiance, venue intimacy, and personalization. Smaller ships (e.g., some Celebrity, Princess) might offer a more exclusive feel.
• Medium (10-50): Most lines have suitable ballrooms or private dining rooms. Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your group and the reception flow.
• Large (50+): Requires a large ballroom or multiple spaces. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian have the biggest ships and most extensive ballroom facilities. Consider guest comfort, dining logistics, and potential need for a larger wedding party.

Tip: Confirm the maximum guest count for your chosen venue and the ship’s capacity for your sailing date. Large weddings may require booking a specific sailing or ship class.

3. Itinerary & Port Weddings: Destination Dreams

The cruise itinerary is crucial:

• Private Island Wedding: Requires a sailing that includes CocoCay (Royal Caribbean), Harvest Caye (NCL), or Half Moon Cay (Carnival). These are often on specific Caribbean itineraries.
• Port Wedding: Choose a line that sails to your dream destination (e.g., Princess for Santorini, Celebrity for Barcelona, Royal Caribbean for St. Thomas). Check if the line offers port wedding packages and handles local logistics (permits, officiants, vendors). This can be more complex but offers incredible backdrops.
• Onboard-Only: Any itinerary works. Focus on the ship’s features and your preferred sailing dates/ports for the honeymoon.

Tip: Research port wedding regulations in your chosen destination. Some countries have strict requirements for foreign weddings. The cruise line’s wedding planner is your best resource for this.

4. Legal Requirements & Documentation: Ensuring Validity

This is critical. Weddings at sea are legal, but requirements vary:

• Ship’s Flag State: The marriage is governed by the laws of the country where the ship is registered (e.g., Bahamas, Malta, Panama). The cruise line will advise on required documents (birth certificates, divorce decrees, passports, etc.) and processing times.
• International Waters: Most ceremonies occur in international waters, making them legal under the flag state’s laws. However, some countries may not recognize them without additional steps (e.g., registration back home).
• Port Weddings: Governed by the port country’s laws. Requirements can be complex (residency, waiting periods, translations, specific documents). The cruise line’s planner will coordinate, but you must provide documents well in advance.
• Officiant: Ensure the officiant is legally recognized by the flag state or port country.

Tip: Contact the cruise line’s wedding department immediately to understand the specific legal process and required documents for your chosen wedding type and sailing. Start gathering documents early (6+ months).

Planning Your Cruise Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide & Pro Tips

Planning a cruise wedding requires a different approach than a land-based one. Here’s how to navigate the process smoothly and ensure your dream day unfolds perfectly.

1. Start Early: The 12+ Month Countdown

Popular dates (summer, holidays, specific ports) and private island slots book up fast. Start planning at least 12-18 months in advance.

• Define Your Vision: Guest count, budget, preferred style (elegant, beachy, modern), desired location (onboard, private island, port).
• Research & Compare: Use this guide to identify 3-5 potential lines. Visit their wedding websites, read reviews, and compare packages.
• Contact Wedding Departments: Call or email the wedding coordinators for your top choices. Ask specific questions: availability for your dates, package details, legal requirements, customization options, and get written quotes.
• Book Your Cruise: Secure your sailing and cabin(s) for you and your wedding party. This is essential before finalizing the wedding package.
• Book the Wedding Package: Once your cruise is booked, finalize and book your chosen wedding package. Pay the deposit.

Tip: Use the cruise line’s online wedding planning portal (available with most packages) to track tasks, deadlines, and communications.

2. Choose & Customize Your Package: Personalize Your Day

Don’t just accept the standard package. Work with your coordinator to personalize:

• Venue & Time: Select your preferred venue (deck, ballroom, chapel, beach) and ceremony time (sunset is popular, but consider heat and guest comfort).
• Decor & Flowers: Upgrade from basic to your preferred style (e.g., floral arch, aisle markers, centerpieces). Provide specific color schemes and flower types.
• Menu & Cake: Customize the reception menu (appetizers, entrees, desserts) and design the wedding cake (flavor, design, size). Consider dietary restrictions.
• Bar Service: Choose open bar, cash bar, or a specific drink package. Decide on signature cocktails.
• Entertainment: Book a specific band, DJ, or performer. Provide a playlist.
• Photography/Videography: Discuss shot lists, preferred photographers, and videography style (cinematic, documentary).
• Special Touches: Add personalized elements: custom vows, unity ceremonies (e.g., sand, candle), welcome bags for guests, special favors, a “first dance” song.

Tip: Create a detailed wedding vision board (Pinterest, physical) to share with your coordinator. Be specific about your expectations.

3. Manage Your Guests: Communication is Key

Keep your guests informed and excited:

• Save-the-Dates: Send early (12+ months) with the cruise line, sailing date, and wedding date.
• Wedding Website: Create a simple site with all details: itinerary, wedding schedule, dress code, accommodation info, RSVP link, and contact info.
• Group Booking: Work with the cruise line to set up a group booking code for your guests. This often unlocks group discounts or perks.
• Communication: Send regular updates via email or the website: booking deadlines, dress code reminders, port arrival info, wedding day schedule.
• Welcome Gathering: Plan a welcome drink or casual dinner on embarkation day for guests.

Tip: Clearly state the dress code (e.g., “Cocktail Attire,” “Beach Chic,” “Formal”) and any expectations (e.g., “No children under 10 at the ceremony”).

4. Legal & Documentation: The Final Steps

Finalize the legalities well before sailing:

• Gather Documents: Collect all required documents (birth certificates, passports, divorce decrees, etc.) as specified by the cruise line. Get certified copies if needed.
• Submit to Coordinator: Send documents to your wedding coordinator for review and submission to the ship’s authorities.
• Confirm Officiant: Verify the officiant’s details and their availability.
• Final Payment: Pay the remaining balance for the wedding package before embarkation.
• Onboard Check-In: Meet with the wedding coordinator shortly after embarkation to confirm all details, review the schedule, and finalize any last-minute requests.

Tip: Bring extra copies of all documents. Keep originals and copies separate in case of loss.

Data Table: Comparing Top Cruise Line Wedding Packages (Starting Prices & Key Features)

Note: Prices are approximate starting points for “Wedding at Sea” packages (2 people) on a 7-night cruise and subject to change. Always get a personalized quote. “+” indicates significant upgrade costs.

Cruise Line	Starting Price (USD)	Key Signature Venue	Private Island Access	Dedicated Chapel	Key Package Inclusions	Best For
Royal Caribbean	$2,500+	Royal Promenade / CocoCay Beach	Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas)	No	Officiant, Coordinator, Basic Decor, Cake, Champagne, Photography, Certificate	Large weddings, CocoCay beach ceremonies, extensive customization
Norwegian Cruise Line	$2,200+	Atrium / Harvest Caye Beach	Harvest Caye (Belize)	No	Officiant, Coordinator, Basic Decor, Cake, Champagne, Photography, Certificate	Flexible style, Harvest Caye, specialty dining receptions
Princess Cruises	$2,800+	Wedding Chapel / Ballroom	No (port weddings common)	Yes	Officiant, Coordinator, Chapel Decor, Cake, Champagne, Photography, Certificate	Traditional, elegant weddings, European port weddings, chapel experience
Carnival Cruise Line	$1,800+	Outdoor Deck / Half Moon Cay Beach	Half Moon Cay (Bahamas)	No	Officiant, Coordinator, Basic Decor, Cake, Champagne, Photography, Certificate	Budget-friendly, relaxed beach weddings, fun atmosphere
Celebrity Cruises	$3,500+	Atrium / Specialty Dining Room	No	No	Officiant, Coordinator, Basic Decor, Cake, Champagne, Photography, Certificate	Luxury, modern weddings, exceptional dining, sophisticated ambiance

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Nautical Nuptials

Choosing the best cruise line to get married on is about finding the perfect harmony between your vision, budget, guest needs, and the unique offerings of each line. There’s no single “best” answer – the ideal choice is the one that resonates most deeply with your dream of a wedding at sea. Royal Caribbean shines for those craving a vibrant celebration on a world-class private island. Norwegian offers unbeatable flexibility and a unique Belizean beach experience. Princess delivers timeless elegance and the unique charm of a dedicated chapel. Carnival provides exceptional value and a relaxed, beachy vibe. Celebrity excels in modern luxury and sophisticated service.

The key to success lies in meticulous planning, clear communication with your chosen cruise line’s wedding coordinator, and starting the process early. Embrace the convenience of the all-in-one package, but don’t hesitate to personalize every detail – from the floral arch to the signature cocktail – to reflect your unique love story. Whether you exchange vows on a sun-drenched deck, in a beautiful onboard chapel, on a pristine private island beach, or amidst the ancient beauty of a European port city, your cruise wedding offers an unparalleled combination of romance, adventure, and unforgettable memories. So, set your course for love, pack your bags (and your dress!), and prepare to embark on the most magical journey of your life – a wedding at sea that will be cherished for a lifetime. Your dream nautical nuptials are waiting to set sail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cruise line to get married on for a luxurious experience?

Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises are top contenders for luxury weddings at sea, offering elegant venues, gourmet catering, and personalized wedding coordinators. Both lines provide customizable packages with premium perks like private receptions and spa services.

Which cruise lines offer affordable wedding packages?

Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are excellent budget-friendly options, with packages starting as low as $1,500. These lines include essentials like ceremony coordination, cake, and photography, making them ideal for cost-conscious couples.

Can I have a legal wedding ceremony on a cruise ship?

Yes, some cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America Line perform legally binding ceremonies at sea, provided you meet documentation requirements. Always confirm with the cruise line and check local marriage laws for your departure port.

What is the best cruise line to get married on for an all-inclusive package?

Disney Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises excel in all-inclusive wedding experiences, covering officiants, flowers, dining, and even attire rentals. These lines are perfect for couples wanting a stress-free, fully curated event.

Do cruise lines allow outdoor weddings on deck?

Most major lines, including Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises, offer outdoor ceremonies on private decks or balconies, weather permitting. Book early to secure the best locations, like bow-facing decks or secluded poolside areas.

Which cruise line has the best wedding vow renewal packages?

Oceania Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises specialize in vow renewals, offering intimate ceremonies with champagne toasts and curated keepsakes. Their smaller ships provide a romantic, boutique atmosphere ideal for reaffirming your love.