Which Cruise Lines Dont Allow Children Find Out Here

Several premium cruise lines, including Viking Ocean Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Saga Cruises, enforce strict adults-only policies to ensure a serene, child-free experience. These lines cater to travelers seeking quiet, sophisticated environments, with no children under 18 allowed on board. Perfect for couples and solo adventurers, these cruises prioritize relaxation and adult-oriented entertainment—ideal for those wanting a peaceful escape.

Key Takeaways

• Adults-only cruises exist: Choose lines like Viking or Virgin Voyages for child-free voyages.
• Check age policies: Some lines ban kids under 18, others restrict by age or cabin.
• Exclusions apply: Even kid-free lines may allow infants with special requests.
• Private island rules: Verify if private destinations have separate child policies.
• Book themed sailings: Look for “adults-only” or “serenity” themed cruises.
• Review contracts: Always confirm child policies before finalizing reservations.

Which Cruise Lines Don’t Allow Children? Find Out Here

Imagine setting sail on a tranquil, child-free cruise where the sound of laughter comes only from adults, the decks are serene, and every onboard experience is designed with grown-ups in mind. For many travelers, especially those seeking a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or a chance to disconnect from the chaos of daily life, adults-only cruises are the ultimate escape. While most major cruise lines welcome families and children with open arms—offering kid-friendly pools, splash pads, and even onboard schools—there’s a growing niche of cruise operators that cater exclusively to adults. These ships create a sanctuary where quiet relaxation, sophisticated entertainment, and curated experiences take center stage, far from the high-energy atmosphere of family-friendly cruises.

Whether you’re a couple celebrating an anniversary, a solo traveler seeking solace, or a group of friends looking for a refined vacation, the question remains: Which cruise lines don’t allow children? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Some lines enforce strict age limits, while others offer select ships or itineraries that are adults-only. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines that either ban children entirely or offer dedicated adults-only voyages. From luxury river cruises to boutique ocean liners, we’ll cover the policies, perks, and destinations of these serene getaways—helping you find the perfect escape without the pitter-patter of little feet.

Why Choose an Adults-Only Cruise?

The Appeal of a Child-Free Environment

For many travelers, the idea of a vacation without children isn’t just about peace and quiet—it’s about reclaiming the essence of relaxation. On a typical family-friendly cruise, amenities like splash parks, kids’ clubs, and family dining zones can dominate the onboard experience. While these are fantastic for parents, they often come with noise, crowds, and a lack of privacy. In contrast, adults-only cruises prioritize tranquility, sophistication, and tailored experiences. Think quiet lounges, spa-like pools, gourmet dining, and curated entertainment—all designed for guests 16, 18, or 21 years and older.

Adults-only environments also foster a more mature social atmosphere. Conversations are deeper, the ambiance is more refined, and the overall pace of life slows down. Whether you’re reading a book by the pool, enjoying a cocktail at sunset, or attending a wine-tasting event, you won’t be interrupted by the sounds of children playing nearby. This makes adults-only cruises ideal for couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends seeking a more intimate and peaceful vacation.

Enhanced Onboard Experience and Amenities

When a cruise line doesn’t have to accommodate children, they can invest more in premium amenities. For example, adults-only ships often feature:

• Quiet, serene pool decks with no splash zones
• Exclusive lounges and bars with sophisticated decor
• High-end spa and wellness centers
• Fine dining restaurants with multi-course tasting menus
• Themed nights like jazz evenings, mixology classes, or stargazing events
• Adult-oriented entertainment, including comedy shows and cabarets

Additionally, service tends to be more personalized. With fewer guests and no need to manage kids’ activities, staff can focus on delivering exceptional adult-focused experiences. Some lines even offer butler service, private cabanas, or in-room dining with premium wine pairings—luxuries rarely seen on family cruises.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Adults-only cruises are increasingly popular for milestone celebrations. Whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday, or vow renewal, a child-free environment allows couples and groups to celebrate without distractions. Many lines offer romantic packages, including private dinners on the deck, couples’ massages, and sunset champagne toasts. These experiences are designed to create lasting memories in an intimate, elegant setting.

Moreover, adults-only cruises are ideal for solo travelers. With no families or children, the social environment is often more welcoming and inclusive, making it easier to connect with like-minded travelers. Some lines even host solo guest mixers or dedicated seating areas to encourage mingling.

Top Cruise Lines That Don’t Allow Children

1. Viking Cruises: Adults-Only by Design

Viking Cruises is one of the most prominent names in the adults-only cruise market. Since its inception, Viking has maintained a strict policy: guests must be 18 years or older. This applies to all of its ocean and river ships, including Viking Star, Viking Sea, and the entire river fleet across Europe, Asia, and Egypt.

The line is known for its Scandinavian-inspired design, understated luxury, and focus on cultural enrichment. Onboard, you’ll find no casinos, no waterslides, and no children’s activities—just a refined atmosphere with lectures, cooking classes, and destination-focused enrichment programs. The dining is exceptional, with menus curated by Viking’s culinary team, and the all-inclusive pricing covers wine and beer with meals, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions.

Why it stands out: Viking’s “no children” policy is part of its brand identity, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a quiet, intellectually stimulating vacation. The line also offers longer itineraries (7 to 14+ days), perfect for deep cultural immersion.

2. Virgin Voyages: 18+ Only, with a Playful Twist

Virgin Voyages, launched by Sir Richard Branson, takes a bold approach to adults-only cruising. All ships—Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and the upcoming Brilliant Lady—are strictly for guests 18 and over. But don’t expect a stuffy atmosphere. Virgin’s vibe is rebellious, vibrant, and stylish, blending luxury with a rock-and-roll edge.

Onboard, you’ll find:

• No buffets—only à la carte dining with no extra charges
• Interactive entertainment like drag shows, dance parties, and themed nights
• A fitness-focused wellness program with outdoor yoga and high-intensity classes
• Adult-only pool decks with cabanas and DJ sets

Virgin also emphasizes sustainability, with no single-use plastics and a strong focus on wellness. The line’s “Scarlet Night” event, a ship-wide party with immersive performances, is a standout experience. While not traditional luxury, Virgin offers a fresh, energetic take on adults-only cruising—perfect for younger travelers or those who want fun without kids.

3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Luxury Without Limits (Except Age)

Regent Seven Seas Cruises doesn’t officially ban children, but its ships—Seven Seas Explorer, Navigator, and Voyager—are practically adults-only due to the high price point and mature onboard culture. The line requires that guests be at least 18 years old for most sailings, though exceptions are rare. Even when younger guests are allowed, the atmosphere is so refined and quiet that children are effectively absent.

Regent is known for its all-inclusive luxury, where everything—from airfare and shore excursions to premium spirits and gratuities—is included. The ships feature spacious suites, gourmet dining (including a French restaurant by Chef Yannick Alléno), and a serene spa. The entertainment is sophisticated, with classical concerts, art auctions, and guest lecturers.

Tip: If you’re booking a Regent cruise, double-check the age policy for your specific itinerary. While children aren’t common, some repositioning cruises may allow younger guests. For guaranteed adults-only experience, choose a European or Mediterranean sailing.

4. Seabourn: Intimate Ships, Adults-Only Atmosphere

Seabourn Cruise Line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, operates small, ultra-luxury ships with a maximum capacity of around 450–600 guests. While Seabourn doesn’t have a strict “no children” policy, the line strongly discourages young guests. The minimum age is 12 months, but families with children are rarely seen due to the high cost, quiet ambiance, and lack of kid-friendly amenities.

Seabourn’s ships—Seabourn Encore, Ovation, and Quest—offer:

• All-suite accommodations with private verandas
• Open-seating dining with Michelin-inspired menus
• Complimentary premium spirits and wines
• Intimate, immersive shore excursions
• A serene pool deck with no splash zones

The line’s “Caviar in the Surf” event, where staff serve champagne and caviar on the beach, epitomizes its indulgent, adults-focused ethos. For travelers seeking understated luxury and quiet elegance, Seabourn is a top pick.

5. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours: River and Ocean, All Adults

Scenic is a premium river and ocean cruise line that caters exclusively to adults. Its ocean ships (Scenic Eclipse and Eclipse II) and river vessels (Scenic Sapphire, Diamond, etc.) are all 18+ only. The line is known for its all-inclusive pricing, which covers everything from excursions and drinks to butler service and private transfers.

Scenic Eclipse, dubbed the “world’s first discovery yacht,” features:

• Two helicopters and a submarine for off-ship excursions
• 11 dining options, including a French fine-dining restaurant
• A 5,000-square-foot spa
• A 24-hour butler service in every suite

The river cruises, meanwhile, offer spacious balconies, open-air lounges, and immersive cultural experiences. Scenic’s focus on small group excursions and personalized service makes it ideal for travelers who value privacy and depth over crowds.

Adults-Only River Cruises: A Serene Alternative

Why River Cruises Are Naturally Adult-Focused

River cruising is inherently more adult-oriented than ocean cruising. The ships are smaller (100–200 passengers), the itineraries are slower-paced, and the focus is on cultural enrichment rather than high-energy entertainment. As a result, even lines that allow children often see few onboard. However, several river cruise companies have formalized the adults-only experience.

Top Adults-Only River Cruise Lines

1. AmaWaterways – While AmaWaterways doesn’t ban children outright, its “AmaKids” program is limited to select sailings. Most itineraries, especially in Europe and Asia, are effectively adults-only. The line’s “AmaMagna” ship offers a dedicated wellness deck and a serene ambiance.

2. Avalon Waterways – Avalon’s “Panorama Suites” ships feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open-air balconies, creating a quiet, elegant atmosphere. The line rarely hosts families, and its enrichment programs (wine tastings, local lectures) appeal to mature travelers.

3. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises – Uniworld’s ships are known for their opulent, boutique design. While children over 4 are allowed, the high price point and mature onboard culture make it a de facto adults-only experience. The line’s “S.S. Catherine” and “S.S. Bon Voyage” are standout vessels.

Tips for Booking an Adults-Only River Cruise

• Check the itinerary: Some river cruises (e.g., Danube, Rhine) are more family-friendly than others (e.g., Douro, Mekong). Choose a route known for adult-focused experiences.
• Ask about group size: Smaller ships (under 150 guests) tend to have a quieter atmosphere.
• Review the excursions: Opt for cultural or culinary-focused tours rather than kid-friendly ones.
• Book during shoulder seasons: Spring and fall sailings often have fewer families.

Adults-Only Cruise Destinations and Itineraries

Caribbean: Virgin Voyages and Regent

The Caribbean is a top destination for adults-only cruises. Virgin Voyages offers 4- to 7-night sailings from Miami to destinations like Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas. The line’s “Scarlet Night” party is a highlight, as is its focus on wellness and adventure. Regent, meanwhile, offers longer Caribbean itineraries with calls in St. Barts, Antigua, and Grenada—perfect for luxury travelers.

Mediterranean: Viking and Scenic

The Mediterranean is a haven for adults-only river and ocean cruises. Viking’s 10- to 14-day sailings explore ports like Santorini, Dubrovnik, and Barcelona, with included shore excursions. Scenic’s ocean cruises, like the “Mediterranean Discovery,” feature helicopter tours, wine tastings, and private beach access.

Alaska: Seabourn and Regent

Alaska’s natural beauty makes it ideal for serene, adults-focused cruises. Seabourn’s 7- to 14-day itineraries offer whale watching, glacier viewing, and small-group excursions. Regent’s “Alaska in Depth” cruise includes a flightseeing tour over Denali and a visit to a private bear sanctuary.

Exotic Destinations: Scenic Eclipse

Scenic Eclipse’s world cruise itineraries take adults-only luxury to new heights. From the Arctic to Antarctica, the ship offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences like submarine dives, helicopter landings, and polar bear safaris—all in a child-free environment.

Comparing Adults-Only Cruise Lines: A Data Table

Cruise Line	Minimum Age	Ships	Key Features	Best For
Viking Cruises	18+	Ocean & River (e.g., Viking Star, Viking Longships)	Cultural enrichment, all-inclusive, quiet ambiance	Intellectual travelers, retirees
Virgin Voyages	18+	Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady	Rock-and-roll vibe, no buffets, interactive entertainment	Younger adults, couples
Regent Seven Seas	18+ (rare exceptions)	Seven Seas Explorer, Voyager	All-inclusive luxury, gourmet dining, spacious suites	High-end travelers, luxury seekers
Seabourn	12 months (rarely seen)	Seabourn Encore, Ovation	Intimate ships, all-suite, open-seating dining	Romantic getaways, solo travelers
Scenic	18+	Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Sapphire	Helicopters/submarines, all-inclusive, butler service	Adventure seekers, luxury explorers

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Adults-Only Escape

Choosing a cruise line that doesn’t allow children is about more than just avoiding noise—it’s about curating a vacation that aligns with your lifestyle, preferences, and desire for peace. Whether you’re drawn to the intellectual enrichment of Viking, the rebellious energy of Virgin Voyages, or the understated luxury of Seabourn, there’s an adults-only cruise out there for you.

When booking, consider:

• Your budget: Luxury lines like Regent and Scenic come at a premium, while Virgin offers a more affordable (but still upscale) experience.
• Your travel style: Do you prefer quiet relaxation (Viking) or vibrant entertainment (Virgin)?
• Your destination: Some lines specialize in certain regions (e.g., Scenic in Antarctica, Viking in the Mediterranean).
• Your group: Couples, solo travelers, and friend groups all have different needs.

Ultimately, the best adults-only cruise is one that lets you disconnect, recharge, and enjoy the finer things in life—without the distractions of family-friendly chaos. So set sail, raise a glass, and embrace the serenity of a child-free voyage. Your perfect escape awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines don’t allow children onboard?

Several cruise lines, such as Virgin Voyages, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Saga Cruises, enforce adult-only policies to cater to travelers seeking a child-free environment. These lines typically set age minimums (e.g., 18+ or 21+) to ensure a serene, kid-free experience.

Are there any luxury cruise lines that ban children?

Yes, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn are luxury options that prohibit children under 18. These lines focus on refined, quiet atmospheres ideal for adult travelers looking for relaxation or cultural enrichment.

Why do some cruise lines not allow children?

Cruise lines that don’t allow children aim to provide a peaceful, sophisticated ambiance tailored to adults. By excluding kids, they can offer quieter spaces, adult-centric activities, and a more relaxed onboard vibe.

Can I find a cruise line that doesn’t allow children under 12?

Most adult-only cruise lines enforce a minimum age of 18+, but some, like P&O Cruises’ “Azura” or “Arcadia” ships, have adult-only decks and areas. For strict child-free policies, opt for lines like Virgin Voyages (18+).

What are the best cruise lines that don’t allow children for a romantic getaway?

For couples, Virgin Voyages (18+) and Viking Ocean Cruises (18+) are top picks, offering romantic dining, spa retreats, and serene settings. Their child-free policies ensure uninterrupted intimacy and tranquility.

Do any river cruise lines not allow children?

Yes, river cruise lines like Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways enforce 18+ age policies on most itineraries. These smaller ships emphasize cultural immersion and quiet ambiance, making them ideal for adult travelers.