
Few things are as relaxing and rejuvenating as a cold drink in hand, the sun shining on your face and seemingly endless miles of seas in every direction. With a record-breaking 37 million people planning to punch their tickets to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, 2025 is the year to embark on an all-inclusive adventure aboard a massive 1,000-foot-long vessel. So pack your bags and leave the kids at home, because these adults-only cruises are sure to leave you feeling pampered and well-rested.
As one of the few adult-exclusive cruise lines in the nation, Virgin Voyages specifically caters to the 18 and older crowd with a variety of entertainment options that are as lively as they are luxurious. With a fleet including the Scarlet Lady, the Valiant Lady and the Resilient Lady, each of Virgin Voyages’ superyacht-inspired ships can comfortably transport up to 2,700 guests to 100 destinations around the world, including Europe, the Caribbean and the Panama Canal. The international influence extends to its 20-plus eateries, with Michelin-starred chefs crafting cuisines such as the Korean barbecue at Gunbae or the irresistibly Italian delights at Extra Virgin.
While Virgin’s mix of exciting cultural experiences is one of its biggest highlights, the main draw is the plethora of onboard offerings that elevate the traditional cruise expedition. The award-winning Redemption Spa helps guests replenish and recenter themselves through hot and cold plunge pools, a mud room and a sensory salt therapy chamber. The on-board app lets you order a bottle of your favorite beverage from anywhere on the ship thanks to its on-demand “Shake For Champagne” feature, plus with several nighttime entertainment options from pop-up shows to death-defying acrobatic acts, it’s no wonder why Virgin Voyages is the top choice for passengers’ oceanic escapades time and time again.
With 11 ships carrying over 900 guests between destinations such as Scandinavia, New Zealand and Rome, Viking Ocean Cruises emphasizes discovery and exploration. The exploration program in particular highlights the historical and cultural aspects of its travels the most with a variety of experiences specially tailored to mature passengers and their specific preferences. For instance, a visit to Bali could involve learning how to craft your own stunning sculpture from one of the province’s most talented wood carvers. Strolling through St. Lucia’s banana plantations can show you how the country processes one of its top exports, plus guests can get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to some of the world’s most notable museums, palaces and even private residences.
The enrichment programs continue on board with supplementary lectures and cooking classes that further tap guests into what life is like for people all around the globe. Every stateroom comes with its own private veranda allowing you to soak in all of your surroundings. And with the all-new Viking Vesta expanding more routes to Athens, Istanbul and Barcelona, Viking Ocean Cruises will make you want to spend less time on the ship and more time in the port.
With two ships solely committed to hosting exciting adult excursions, P&O Cruises is a small but mighty operation that solely operates in the U.K. Commemorating its 25th anniversary this year, the Aurora carries more than 1,800 passengers across the sandy shores of the Mediterranean, Spain and Portugal. While roughly 800 feet in size, this intimate vessel has 19 bars and restaurants, an onboard Oasis Spa and large-scale entertainment productions held at the elegant 660-seat Curzon Theatre.
Also taking off in the new year is the Arcadia, which will be taking 2,094 guests on world cruises throughout the year. The 15 in-house restaurants all come with their own unique style and flair, including Marco Pierre White’s famous Ocean Grill, while sips of champagne can be enjoyed at the ship’s cocktail lounge, the Intermezzo. Stone therapy treatments are provided at the spa’s thermal suite, and you can check out a live performance anytime at the ship’s three-tiered theater, the Palladium. After all, nothing speaks to exemplary seaside experiences like putting on a good show.