Why Adults-Only Sailing Is the Way to Go

While family is one of the great joys in life, sometimes we all just need a break from each other, as many of us learned during those locked-down pandemic years. Travel is an easy way to manage taking a respite from the family routine, worries, and dramas … that is, when travelers opt for an adults-only adventure.

The first step is for moms and dads to give themselves permission to take a trip sans kids, something that travel advisors can help with by suggesting the adults-only option and noting that others are doing it, too. One could even mention that they might have seen a commercial where the kids are pouting in high style because they have to stay home while their parents take a cruise without them this time (wink-wink).

Here are seven reasons why adults-only sailing, specifically curated for travelers ages 18+, is the way to go…

1. Only adults everywhere you turn
While parents love spending time with their kids, they also appreciate escaping to an environment catering to adults. On these trips, travelers can feel free to be who they are. Whether they want to spend their day relaxing in the spa, dancing the night away, or lounging by the pool, they have all those options at their fingertips. They can also enjoy the adult-focused features onboard that might not be available on a kid-friendly ship, such as balconies with hammocks, fun mood lighting like "Let's Get It On" and "Hangover," and transformative cabins that allow for socializing before a night out.

2. Culinary delights for discerning palates
There are no buffets, hot dogs, and chicken fingers on these voyages. The Michelin-inspired dining is premium, with eateries and culinary delights designed for a more discerning and sophisticated palate.

3. Entertainment made for adults
No kiddie shows and water parks here. These cruises feature a festival-like line-up of immersive entertainment made exclusively for adults. From the live bands to the risqué sex-positive show, the musicians, choreographers, and artists tackle subjects made for grownups’ ears and eyes only.

4. Stress-free environment
A big draw on these voyages is the stress-free environment -- without screaming kids running through the hallways or pushing all the buttons in the elevator. Instead, travelers are surrounded by other adults who also want to have fun without having to supervise the kiddie pool all week long.

5. Freedom to do what you want when you want it
Adults-only travel means deciding what you want to do, when you want to do it. Travelers have the freedom to pre-book dinner reservations and happenings whenever they want, versus timing their schedules around bedtimes and kids’ club hours. If they want to see a band at 11 p.m. or spend all day at the spa's thermal suite, there are no obligations to the little ones.

6. More authentic shore excursions
Part of the fun of traveling on a cruise is exploring all the incredible ports of call. While there is a time and a place to build sandcastles with the kids, travelers on adults-only cruises are encouraged to book more authentic and immersive shore excursions than they might otherwise be able to do with the children in tow. 

7. Travel with adult friends
Those looking to take a trip with adult friends can book multiple rooms together. Travel advisors can help set up a private group or circle with added perks and personalized touches. Another way to travel with other adults of like mind is to book passage on a themed voyage, which also offers additional onboard programming and perks.

The most important thing
The most important thing travel advisors can say to their clients about booking an adults-only sailing is to not feel guilty about it. Even the best parents need a break now and again to recharge so they can return to their daily responsibilities more energized and committed than before. Remind them that their kids will still love them and their emails will be waiting for them when they return. Encourage them to take this opportunity that they so well deserve to step into a space made exclusively for adults, just for this brief sailing journey.

FROM THE SPONSOR:
Delivering epic vacations at sea, Virgin Voyages is the irresistible new travel brand by Sir Richard Branson that offers exclusively adult voyages for travelers 18+. With fresh, elevated spaces that strike the perfect balance of nautical chic and glamour, Virgin Voyages' superyacht design feels like staying in an enchanting boutique hotel at sea. Currently departing from the sun-soaked cities of Miami and Barcelona – and soon to include Athens, San Juan, and Melbourne – the fleet offers itineraries to more than 100 awe-inspiring destinations across four continents. Virgin Sailors are spoiled for choice with 20 eateries offering Michelin-star culinary experiences all included, an incredible line-up of entertainment, stylish and comfortable cabins, Rockstar Quarters, authentic and locally inspired shore excursions, and a dose of Vitamin Sea with well-being naturally intertwined throughout the experience. With the ambition of always being “Brilliant To Do Business With,” the brand’s First Mates program includes lucrative commissions (no NCFs), a Sailor-driven approach and educational opportunities. For more information or to sign up to be a Virgin Voyages First Mate, travel advisors can visit www.FirstMates.com.