I want to take my fiancé (35M) on a cruise for his birthday, and I’d love your advice. Should we go with Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages, or maybe another line? I’ve done Carnival before and don’t want to repeat it.
Are there any destinations that really stand out? I’m from the Caribbean, so I’m not as excited about Caribbean itineraries unless the excursions are amazing. I’ve heard Alaska is a great option.
I’d prefer an adults-only cruise and something up to six days long. Thoughts?
Here’s the original post for reference:
Should I go with Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages, or another line? I’ve done Carnival before and don’t want to repeat it.
Any destinations that stand out? I’m Caribbean, so not too excited about Caribbean cruises unless the excursions are great. Heard Alaska is amazing.
Looking for an adults-only cruise, up to six days long.
If the moderators have questions, please reach out to me.
My wife and I are in our 30s, and we really like Celebrity Cruises. While it’s not strictly adults-only, there are very few kids. If you want true adults-only, Virgin Voyages is your best bet.
Isle said:
My wife and I are in our 30s, and we really like Celebrity Cruises. While it’s not strictly adults-only, there are very few kids. If you want true adults-only, Virgin Voyages is your best bet.
Thanks! I don’t mind kids, but I was just wondering if they might make the trip less relaxing.
If you’re looking for adults-only and an amazing experience, I’d suggest Virgin Voyages paired with an Alaska trip. It has great food, entertainment, and stunning views.
Sullivan said:
If you’re looking for adults-only and an amazing experience, I’d suggest Virgin Voyages paired with an Alaska trip. It has great food, entertainment, and stunning views.
That does sound like exactly what I’m looking for. I just wonder if I should explore any alternatives before deciding. Maybe I should stick with my gut!
Sullivan said:
If you’re looking for adults-only and an amazing experience, I’d suggest Virgin Voyages paired with an Alaska trip. It has great food, entertainment, and stunning views.
I agree, Virgin sounds perfect.
@Qi
That sounds amazing. Which cruise line are you using for your Alaska trip? Virgin doesn’t have availability until 2026.
Virgin Voyages is the only mid-range adults-only cruise line. Alaska is a fantastic destination for cruising. Just a heads-up, though—most cruises are seven days, so six-day options might be limited.
I did a transatlantic cruise with Norwegian to Rome, and it was one of the best vacations I’ve ever had. There were about nine stops in the Mediterranean, and it lasted 16 days. Norwegian Cruise Line is fantastic.
@Rin
That sounds incredible! I’ll definitely add it to my list for when I have more PTO.
My wife and I had a great experience with Norwegian.
It really depends on what you’re looking for and your budget. Do you prioritize food, activities, shows, nightlife, or hanging out with people your age? Each cruise line has its strengths. For what it’s worth, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships are some of the best.
@Linden
I’d like to spend around $2,000 since we may also need to book flights depending on the port. Food, activities, and shows are probably the biggest priorities for us.
When are you planning to go? For spring next year, Royal Caribbean could be a good choice. Just try to avoid spring break when there will be more kids onboard. Celebrity and Princess also cater to older crowds with fewer kids, and they’re both very relaxing.
Virgin Voyages is offering Alaskan cruises in 2026 on their new ship, the Brilliant Lady. If Glacier Bay is on your bucket list, check out Princess, NCL, or Holland, as they’re permitted to enter that area.
If you and your fiancé enjoy activities and shows, Royal or Virgin might be great options. What’s the highlight of Alaska you’re most excited about?
@Emil
It’s a surprise trip for spring, so Virgin’s Alaska cruise might be too far out, but I’d still love to try it someday. My only concern with Royal is how relaxing it’ll be with kids onboard. I get overstimulated pretty easily, which is why I prefer adults-only cruises.
@Zen
Totally get it, especially for a special trip. If you go with Royal, try booking between mid-April and mid-May to avoid spring break crowds. Celebrity and Princess might also be good options if you’re looking for fewer kids. Celebrity even shares a loyalty program with Royal, so it’s worth considering.
I’d recommend booking Aqua Class on Celebrity. It’s not adults-only, but there are very few kids, and you’ll get perks like access to Blu, a smaller dining room with a focus on lighter, regional cuisine. You can still dine in the main dining room if you’d like, and it’s great to cruise when school’s in session for the fewest kids.
Celebrity’s Mediterranean itineraries are incredible. The ‘Best of Italy’ cruise starts in Rome and hits Naples, Sicily, Montenegro, Dubrovnik, Split, and Ravenna. The port is now outside Venice, which is better for the city. Spend an extra day in Venice if you can—it’s magical in cooler weather with fewer crowds.
Hope this helps! Whichever cruise you choose, have an amazing time!