Large Ship Line #: Norwegian Cruise Line
Things escalated quickly for Norwegian: the cruise line jumped from medium-size ships to mega-ships practically overnight , with just three ships in its current fleet sized somewhere in between. But thats soon about to change. Norwegian currently has six ships on order as part of Project Leonardo, each of which will hold about 3,300 passengers. Its interesting to see a cruise line scale back from its mega-ships and opt for a more manageable size for such a large order. The first, Norwegian Prima, is expected to launch in 2022 some of its highlights include the fastest slides at sea , a three-level go-kart racetrack, and a three-story theater that transforms into a nightclub after the evening’s show.
Mega Ship Line #: Royal Caribbean International
If you truly want to feel like youre living in a floating city, Royal Caribbean is the cruise line for you, given that it has the four largest cruise ships in the world. Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas top the lists in terms of passenger count , length , and gross tonnage . Given their size, these ships provide every amenity you can think ofand plenty you cant even imaginefrom waterparks to world-class musical productions to autonomous bars staffed by robots to double-decker suites with slides for the kids. Youll find these behemoths sailing the Caribbean and Mediterranean throughout the year, but with so many activities on board, you might not even want to leave the ship.
Best Cruise Lines For Couples On The Go
Couples looking for an active vacation can look to Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, which offer action-packed activities and entertainment onboard their biggest ships.
Carnival Cruise Lines fun ships have multiple entertainment venues, as well as hopping bars and night clubs, ensuring a lively onboard atmosphere day and night. Outdoor activities include pools and hot tubs, twisting waterslides, volleyball, mini-golf, and more. Onboard the Carnival Vista and the Carnival Horizon, you can find the SkyCourse, a thrilling ropes challenge perfect for adventurous couples. Another new attraction is BOLT the ultimate roller coaster at sea that will be available onboard Carnivals upcoming new ship, the .
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a long list of activities onboard its newest ships. The Norwegian Bliss, Joy, and Encore all have the Racetrack the first go-kart course at sea, an outdoor laser tag, and thrilling waterslides. The Joy and Encore also have the Galaxy Pavilion, a large arcade with VR games, rides, and race cars. Headline shows include Broadway hits such as Jersey Boys and Kinky Boots, and other entertainment includes a comedy club, and a Beatles cover band. There is no shortage of bars and lounges onboard, ranging from a mojito, wine, and whiskey bar, to a brewpub.
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Medium Ship Line #: Msc Cruises
Showing up for the third time on our list, MSC Cruises is clearly beloved by many! The Swiss cruise line has just four medium-size shipsthe Lirica classwhich accommodate between 2,000 and 2,600 passengers. Theyre also the oldest ships in the fleet, though they each underwent refurbishment as part of MSCs Renaissance program to modernize interiors and expand their size. The line is known for its Mediterranean inspirationthough its fleet sails far beyond the region, calling at ports all over the worldso youll find delicious Italian food on board no matter where your ship is taking you. MSC sailings are quite lively, especially at night, with many guests partying at nightclubs into the late hours.
Costa Neoromantica Costa Cruises
The neoRomantica caters to couples, offering accommodations where the scene is set to reconnect with the one you love. The ship features cozy wine bars, a disco for the couples who are ready to dance the night away, oceanfront dining, and the Samsara Spa. The spa doesn’t just offer couples massages, but also has Finnish saunas and Ayurvedic-inspired treatments.
What Your Itinerary Might Look Like: The neoRomantica’s Far East from Yokohama cruise ventures round-trip from Yokohama, Japan. From there, you’ll visit Busan, Fukuoka, Osaka, and Shingu.
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Large Ship Line #: Cunard
For those longing for the romantic nostalgia of bygone transatlantic sailings, Cunard is your go-to. The legendary cruise line was established in 1840 and has had dozens of ships in its fleet, though today, there are just three active vessels: the Queen Mary 2, the worlds only true transatlantic ocean liner, designed specifically for ocean crossings, as well as the worlds only pet-friendly ship the Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Victoria. Activities havent changed all that much in the last 180 yearstheres still a proper afternoon tea, black-tie dinners, and galas in the ballrooms. Its quite like a step back in time, with all the modern safety measures, of course. Cunards next ship is scheduled to set sail in 2022 or 2023.
Best Shore Excursions: Viking Ocean Cruises
Vikings ocean and river cruises include shore excursions in the price of a ticket, which gives them a foot up on many other luxury lines. These immersive shore experiences tend to center around walking and bus tours, as well as enrichment excursions like brewing craft beer, arts and crafts, photo walks, and more. Viking also caters to passengers with limited mobility, as well as more active guests. Tours are staffed by knowledgeable guides who have scoped out the best photo ops, and Vikings partnership with many iconic sites means you can skip long lines.
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Small Ship Line #: Paul Gauguin Cruises
The single ship Paul Gauguin focuses solely on the Pacific, treating its 332 guests to picture-perfect beaches and dramatic scenery in Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Fiji year-round. On Mota Mahana, the lines private island in French Polynesia, passengers sip cocktails from the floating bar or paddle out over coral reefs on kayaks and paddleboards, straight from the ships water sports marina. For those wanting to get under the waves, an onboard PADI scuba program certifies divers in some of the clearest waters on the planet. Best of all? The ships rates are all-inclusive. In 2019, Ponant acquired the cruise line.
Most Romantic Things To Do On A Cruise
The ability to plan the perfect date may not be a skill all of us have, even if we love our spouses or significant others. So the idea of taking a couples cruise where every night is date night can seem stressful. Luckily, luxury cruises offer plenty of pre-planned activities that combine the right amount of fun, excitement, and amor. Here are some of our top recommendations for what to do on your cruise to wow your sweetheart.
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Small Ship Line #: Metropolitan Touring
Operating three expedition vessels in the Galápagos, Metropolitan Touring is the ideal cruise line for those seeking a casual experience in the wildlife hotspot. The tiny ships, which only accommodate between 40 and 78 passengers, have a laid-back atmosphere where the focus is very much on wildlife spotting. The company also offers land-based tours in mainland Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia that can be combined with a Galápagos expedition.
Best Couples Cruises On A Luxury Cruise Line
Luxury is top priority at Celebrity Cruises, and for partners on a couples cruise that means a fully furnished suite that can be a place of refuge after a busy day of new experiences around the world. It also means romantic dinners at some of the best restaurants at sea, with menus created by a Michelin-starred chef worthy of the seas finest luxury lines.
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After dinner, you can enjoy a drink on your romanic cruise at the Sunset Bar , where you can take in panoramic ocean views with your partner or with new friends youve met on board.
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B Best Romantic Cruises For Couple While On A Budget
1. A Perfect Combination of Romance & Adventure Princess Cruise Lines
If you want both romance and adventure, this could be the perfect getaway for you! Unlimited food and drinks are served in an elegant setting conducive to conversation.
The ship hosts a nightly show which features both dancing and singing.
The best thing about this cruise is that its the right price for those who want romance without breaking the bank.
Youll enjoy spectacular views of the well-maintained ships as you listen and dance to live music on deck.
You can even participate in some salsa dancing lessons or karaoke sessions! This just might be one of the best cruises for couples while on a budget.
2. Romantic Getaways under $400 Carnival Cruise Lines
If youre looking for a low-cost getaway, Carnival Cruises offers deals so good that there arent any other options out there!
Couples can indulge in a wide variety of spa treatments, including massages and beauty packages.
Couples will also enjoy the ships nightclubs where they can dance for hours and show off their moves until the sun comes up.
There are many band performances as well as comedy shows. If you want to get away without spending a fortune, this is the cruise line for you!
3. Special Romance Deals Royal Caribbean Cruises
Royal Caribbean offers special romance deals that take your budget-friendly cruises from good to amazing.
The cruise lines shows include magic, dance numbers, and Broadway-inspired performances.
Sleep Under The Stars With Seadream Yacht Club
Cruisers who have sailed with SeaDream Yacht Club love their Balinese Dream Bed experience. You and your significant other will spend the night beneath the stars wrapped in Belgian sheets, lulled to sleep in each others arms by the whispering waves and gentle breeze. This is a great option for warm weather itineraries and for couples who relish being together outdoors. This luxurious alfresco experience is sure to win major points with your love.
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What Is The Best Cruise Line For Your Money
Ocean cruises are one of the best ways to explore multiple Caribbean islands or the Pacific Northwest without the hassles of booking numerous flights, hotel rooms and rental cars. With so many cruise lines to choose from, finding the best cruise for your money can be challenging.
People stand in line as they prepare to board the Celebrity Edge cruise ship in Fort Lauderdale, … Florida, on June 26, 2021. – Celebrity Edge is the first major cruise ship to restart operations from a US port since the Covid-19 pandemic shutdown cruise travel.
AFP via Getty Images
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is the best overall value for many itineraries. Their fares are competitively priced and are some of the cheapest fares starting as low as $225 per night.
Booking a cheap cruise doesnt mean youre automatically going to have a no-frills voyage or be on a party boat where the celebration never ends, even when youre trying to rest. This cruise line has a reputation for having a good mixture of solo travelers, families and retirees. There are also many on-ship amenities for entertainment, relaxation and dining.
Families are more likely to find childrens programs without the steep cost of a Disney cruise. While the experience isnt the same, children and parents will likely still have a great time. Booking a suite can also be a good option if you have a bigger travel budget but dont want to splurge for a luxury liner.
Carnival
Norwegian Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Princess
Zuiderdam Holland America Line
For the artistic couple, Holland America Line takes great care to decorate their interiors with enviable art and antiques. On board you’ll find a blues club and plenty of activities. If you’re looking for a romantic cruise but can’t leave the kids at home, Zuiderdam is a ship that caters to adult alone time and kids fun time, with the Greenhouse Spa & Salon for you and your S.O., and Club Hal for the children.
What Your Itinerary Might Look Like: Find love in South America on Holland America Line’s Panama Canal Sunfarer cruise. With stops in the Bahamas, Aruba, Cartagena, and Costa Rica, the cruise satisfies your craving for a romantic beach getaway, new cities, and a jungle adventure in one fell swoop.
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How Long Should A Couples Cruise Be
Cruise length will also determine the crowd on board. Typically, parents avoid taking their children out of school if at all possible. Generally speaking, the shorter the cruise, the more families will be on board. The same applies to college students looking for a weekend party on the seas. Week-long or longer cruises are usually an older, less rowdy crowd. These quieter cruises are much better suited to romantic vacations where couples can relax and enjoy each others company uninterrupted.
River Ship Line #: Vantage Deluxe World Cruises
The river cruise branch of tour operator Vantage Deluxe World Travel has several of its own ships, the majority of which sail in Europe. In fact, the vessels were some of the first river ships in Europe to have cabins designated for solo travelers. But in 2020, the company started operations in Egypt on its new m/s Nebu, which also has solo cabins. Providing its clients with even more options, Vantage also charters ships around the world for a variety of itineraries.
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Crystal Serenity Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises isn’t exaggerating when they boast “six-star service.” Certain suites offer butler service that allows you and your partner to unwind instead of having to coordinate dining logistics and offshore activities. Keeping wellness up even on vacation is important to plenty of travelers, and on board the Crystal Serenity, you can share daily yoga practices with your travel partner in crime. And for a romantic dining experience, try Crystal Serenity‘s wine dinners, complete with a vintage wine selection and sumptuous Italian food.
What Your Itinerary Might Look Like: Their Palais to Palazzos cruise starts in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and then journeys to Rome, Italy. After a couple more stops in Italian ports, you’ll visit Croatia before heading to Venice, the final destination on this cruise.
River Ship Line #: American Queen Steamboat Company
If nostalgias the name of your game, book a trip with the American Queen Steamboat Company, whose four paddlewheelers sail the Mississippi, Columbia, Snake, Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers. These are leisurely sailings: most are nine days long, with some outliers like the 15- or 16-day journey from Minneapolis to New Orleans.
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Best For Adventure: Azamara Club Cruises
Courtesy of Azamara Club Cruises
- Sails from: Rio De Janeiro
- Duration: 8 nights
- Ship Name: Azamara Pursuit
- Itinerary: Ilhabela, Brazil Sao Paulo, Brazil Montevideo, Uruguay Punta Del Este, Uruguay Buenos Aires, Argentina
Azamara Club Cruises is ideal for couples who like to discover more adventurous destinations on a smaller cruise ship. The newest addition to the fleet, the Amazon Pursuit, has just 702 passengers, so theres added space and privacy. In addition, the companys Destination Immersion program allows more time in ports so theres no rush to get back to the ship. Adult beverages and gratuities are bundled into the pricing, and suites come with a personal butler and in-suite afternoon tea service. The ships new Club Spa Suites place couples next to the spa and feature a glass-enclosed soaking tub and separate rain shower, plus private balconies. On the South America voyage, the ship will stay docked overnight in Rio De Janeiro so couples can take in the sizzling nightlife.
Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best cruise lines for couples.
Explore A Private Island Together With Paul Gauguin Cruises
If you or your love have fantasized about being whisked off to a secluded isle, weve got good news for you. Not only do Paul Gauguin cruises sail exclusively to destinations off the beaten path, many also call at Motu Mahana, the cruise lines private French Polynesian island. Make the most of your newly-minted PADI SCUBA certification by exploring the beaches and shores together before retiring back to the ships lap of luxury for gourmet dining.
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Small Ship Line #1: Crystal Yacht Cruises
In early 2015, Crystal brought a yacht into its fleet for the first time, and following its success, the cruise line decided to custom-build a polar-class expedition megayacht. The ultra-luxe Crystal Endeavor, which sails to remote locations like the Arctic and the Antarctic, as well as urban ports around the world, launched in 2021, and can carry up to 200 passengers.
Relax In A Private Cabana With Seabourn
If youre on a honeymoon cruise or celebrating a special occasion, this is a great way to make some memories. Seabourn Encore offers 15 private cabanas for rent described as luxury living rooms. Spend the day there with your sweetheart and soak in the sea views in peace and privacy. Each cabana costs $350 per day, but its arguably one of the best ways to spend a sea day.
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When Should You Book A Couples Cruise
The best cruises for couples are usually the ones with the fewest families aboard. While kids can be wonderful and rewarding, they might put a damper on your romantic evenings. Your best bet for booking a romantic getaway from all the children is going to be shoulder season. This is a magical time when kids are in school and cruise lines have staterooms they need to fill. Its not just a great time for romance, its a great time to save some money.
Essentially, you wont want to book your cruise during school breaks. This includes the first week of January , end of February and beginning of March , end of May until August , the last week of November , and the last two weeks of December .
If you steer clear of these timeframes, youve taken an excellent precaution to avoid not only children but college students looking to party as well.