Best Cruises For Young Adults: Top Picks for Adventure And Fun At Sea

by | Oct 13, 2023 | Cruise Planning & Cruiser Lifestyle

Cruising is a popular vacation option for people of all ages. While some may assume that cruising is only for retirees or families with young children, there are many options available for young adults as well. In fact, there are cruises specifically designed with young adults in mind, offering a variety of activities and entertainment options that cater to this demographic.

For young adults looking to explore new destinations while enjoying a fun and social atmosphere, a cruise can be an excellent choice. With options ranging from party-centric cruises with DJs and themed events, to more laid-back options with opportunities for adventure and relaxation, there is something for everyone. Many cruise lines also offer group activities and excursions that allow young adults to connect with others and make new friends while on board.

When choosing a cruise for young adults, it's important to consider factors such as the ship's amenities, itinerary, and overall atmosphere. Some cruises may be geared more towards families or older adults, while others may offer a more youthful and energetic vibe. By doing research and carefully selecting a cruise that fits their preferences and interests, young adults can enjoy a memorable and enjoyable vacation at sea.

white cruise ship on dock during daytime

Understanding Cruises for Young Adults

Cruises are a popular vacation choice for young adults looking to explore the world while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a floating hotel. A cruise ship is essentially a small city on the water, with a variety of amenities and activities to keep passengers entertained throughout the journey.

When it comes to cruises for young adults, there are several options to choose from. Some cruises are designed specifically for adults, with no children allowed on board. These "adults-only" cruises tend to have a more sophisticated atmosphere and may offer more luxurious accommodations and dining options.

Other cruises are geared towards young adults who are looking for a more lively and party-like atmosphere. These "party cruises" often feature late-night dance parties, themed events, and other activities designed to appeal to a younger crowd.

For more active young adults, there are also cruises that offer a range of outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, surfing, and zip-lining. These cruises may also include stops at ports of call that offer opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and other outdoor adventures.

When choosing a cruise for young adults, it's important to consider factors such as the ship's amenities, the itinerary, and the overall atmosphere. Some cruises may be more geared towards families or older travelers, while others may be a better fit for a younger crowd.

Overall, a cruise can be a great vacation choice for young adults looking to explore new destinations, meet new people, and have a fun and relaxing time at sea.

Top Cruise Lines for Young Adults

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, making it a great choice for young adults. The cruise line offers a variety of activities, including water parks, mini-golf, and live entertainment. Carnival also has a reputation for being affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is another popular choice for young adults. The cruise line offers a wide range of activities, including rock climbing, zip-lining, and surfing. Royal Caribbean also has a reputation for its nightlife, with bars, clubs, and casinos on board. The cruise line's ships are also known for their innovative features, such as virtual balconies and robotic bartenders.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is a great option for young adults who want to customize their cruise experience. The cruise line offers a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants and casual dining venues. Norwegian also has a reputation for its nightlife, with bars, clubs, and live entertainment on board. The cruise line's ships also offer a variety of activities, such as water parks, ropes courses, and mini-golf.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is a new cruise line that is specifically designed for adults. The cruise line offers a variety of unique experiences, such as a tattoo parlor and a drag queen brunch. Virgin Voyages also has a focus on wellness, with a spa and fitness center on board. The cruise line's ships are also environmentally friendly, with a focus on sustainability.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is a great option for young adults who are still kids at heart. The cruise line offers a variety of activities, including character meet and greets, Broadway-style shows, and Disney-themed parties. Disney also has a reputation for its dining options, with rotational dining and character dining experiences on board.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is a great option for young adults who want a more upscale experience. The cruise line offers a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants and casual dining venues. Celebrity also has a reputation for its nightlife, with bars, clubs, and live entertainment on board. The cruise line's ships also offer a variety of activities, such as cooking classes and wine tastings.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a great option for young adults who want a European-style cruise experience. The cruise line offers a variety of dining options, including Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. MSC also has a reputation for its entertainment, with live music and theater performances on board. The cruise line's ships also offer a variety of activities, such as a Formula 1 simulator and a 4D cinema.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is a great option for young adults who want a British-style cruise experience. The cruise line offers a variety of dining options, including British cuisine and afternoon tea. P&O also has a reputation for its entertainment, with live music and theater performances on board. The cruise line's ships also offer a variety of activities, such as a sports court and a cinema.

Overall, there are many great cruise lines for young adults to choose from. Whether you're looking for a fun and lively atmosphere or a more upscale experience, there's a cruise line that's perfect for you.

white cruise ship on sea under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

Exciting Onboard Activities

For young adults looking for a fun-filled cruise experience, exciting onboard activities are a must. Most modern cruise ships offer a wide range of activities to keep passengers entertained throughout their journey. Here are some of the most popular onboard activities for young adults:

  • Adventure Activities: Many cruise ships have rock climbing walls, zip lines, and other adventure activities for thrill-seekers. These activities are perfect for young adults who want to test their limits and have some fun.
  • Pool Parties and Deck Parties: Cruise ships are known for their pool parties and deck parties, which are a great way to meet new people and have some fun in the sun. These parties are usually accompanied by music, drinks, and other entertainment.
  • Waterslides and Water Parks: For those who love water activities, many cruise ships have waterslides and water parks. These are perfect for young adults who want to cool off and have some fun in the water.
  • Nightclubs and Bars: Cruise ships have a variety of nightclubs and bars that cater to young adults. These venues offer a lively atmosphere and are perfect for those who want to dance, drink, and socialize.
  • Spa Treatments: For those who want to relax and unwind, many cruise ships have onboard spas that offer a variety of treatments. These treatments include massages, facials, and other beauty treatments.
  • Comedy Shows and Entertainment Venues: Many cruise ships have onboard entertainment venues that offer a variety of shows and performances. These venues often feature comedy shows, musical performances, and other forms of entertainment.

Overall, cruise ships offer a wide range of exciting onboard activities for young adults. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or entertainment, there's something for everyone on a cruise ship.

Popular Cruise Destinations

When it comes to planning a cruise, the destination is one of the most important factors to consider. Young adults looking for a fun and exciting cruise experience have a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular cruise destinations for young adults:

Caribbean

The Caribbean is a classic cruise destination that offers something for everyone. From beautiful beaches to exciting nightlife, there's no shortage of things to do on a Caribbean cruise. Some of the most popular ports of call include Nassau, St. Thomas, and Cozumel.

Alaska

For those looking for a more adventurous cruise experience, Alaska is a great choice. With its stunning scenery and wildlife, Alaska is a great destination for nature lovers. Popular ports of call include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

Europe

Europe is a great destination for young adults looking to explore new cultures and experience some of the world's most iconic landmarks. From the beaches of the Mediterranean to the historic cities of Northern Europe, there's something for everyone. Popular ports of call include Barcelona, Rome, and Athens.

Mexico

Mexico is a great destination for young adults looking for a fun and affordable cruise experience. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, Mexico is a great place to relax and have fun. Popular ports of call include Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada.

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is a great destination for young adults looking for a mix of culture and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine, the Mediterranean is a great place to explore. Popular ports of call include Barcelona, Naples, and Dubrovnik.

Ports of Call

In addition to the destinations listed above, many young adults enjoy cruises that visit a variety of ports of call. Some popular ports of call include Nassau, Cozumel, and St. Thomas in the Caribbean, and Barcelona, Rome, and Athens in Europe.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay is a private island destination that is exclusive to Royal Caribbean cruises. With its beautiful beaches, water park, and zipline, Perfect Day at CocoCay is a great place for young adults to relax and have fun.

Shore Excursions for Young Adults

When it comes to shore excursions, young adults want to experience something unique and exciting. They want to explore new places, participate in adventurous activities, and create unforgettable memories. Here are some of the best shore excursions for young adults:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Young adults can explore the underwater world and see beautiful marine life by snorkeling or scuba diving. Many cruise lines offer guided tours with experienced instructors.
  • Zip Lining: For the adventurous young adults, zip lining is a thrilling experience. They can fly over the jungle or through the mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Hiking and Biking: Many ports offer scenic hiking and biking trails that are perfect for young adults who want to stay active and explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • Cultural Tours: For young adults who want to learn about the history and culture of the destination, cultural tours are a great option. They can visit museums, historical sites, and local markets.
  • Beach Parties: Young adults can enjoy a day of sun, sand, and fun at a beach party. Many cruise lines offer beach excursions with music, drinks, and water sports.

Overall, young adults have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to shore excursions. They can choose to be active, adventurous, or cultural, depending on their interests.

Budget Considerations

When it comes to planning a cruise, budget is an important factor to consider, especially for young adults who may be on a tighter budget. Fortunately, there are many affordable cruise options that cater to young adults.

One option is to look for all-inclusive cruises that include meals, drinks, and activities in the price of the ticket. This can help young adults save money and avoid unexpected expenses during the trip. Additionally, some all-inclusive cruises offer Wi-Fi packages that can be purchased for a reasonable price.

Another consideration is gratuities and tips. Some cruise lines automatically add gratuities to the cost of the ticket, while others leave it up to the passenger to decide how much to tip. It's important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for a cruise.

When it comes to meals, most cruise lines offer a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to formal restaurants. Some cruise lines also offer specialty dining options for an additional fee. Young adults on a budget may want to stick to the included dining options to save money.

Overall, there are many budget-friendly cruise options available for young adults. By considering all-inclusive packages, gratuities and tips, and dining options, young adults can enjoy a fun and affordable cruise experience.

Cruise Tips for Young Adults

Young adults can have a great time on a cruise if they plan well and are prepared. Here are some tips to help make the most of the experience:

  • Choose the right cruise: Look for a cruise that caters to young adults. Some cruises may be more family-oriented or geared towards older passengers. Check out the ship's amenities and activities to see if they match your interests.
  • Plan your itinerary: Take advantage of shore excursions and plan ahead for activities on the ship. Some cruises offer craft brewery tours, white hot parties, and other unique experiences that may appeal to young adults.
  • Pack smart: Bring comfortable clothing and shoes for exploring ports of call and participating in onboard activities. Don't forget to pack sunscreen and any necessary medications.
  • Meet new people: Take advantage of social events and activities to meet other young adults on the ship. Many cruises offer singles mixers and other events to help passengers connect.
  • Use a travel agent: A travel agent can help you find the best cruise for your needs and budget. They can also help you navigate the booking process and answer any questions you may have.

Overall, young adults can have a great time on a cruise with a little planning and preparation. By choosing the right cruise, planning your itinerary, packing smart, meeting new people, and using a travel agent, you can make the most of your experience.