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By Honida Beram.
Image Credit: Cunard
There’s something special about cruising as a couple. You unpack once, leave the everyday routine behind and enjoy spending time together without worrying about what comes next. It might be exploring a new port, lingering over lunch, relaxing on your balcony or dressing up for dinner.
Whether you're planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary or simply escaping the daily grind, a cruise can be a wonderful way to reconnect. The beauty is that you can make it as adventurous, relaxed or romantic as you like.
From lively adults-only ships to elegant ocean liners and intimate river vessels, there's something for almost every couple. The trick is finding a holiday you both love.
Some couples love a bit of glitz and glamour, others want adventure and exploration, while plenty are happy with a sun lounger, a good book and someone else doing the cooking!
Here are four cruise lines worth considering.
If you like your holidays with a contemporary twist, Virgin Voyages is worth a look. Its ships are exclusively for adults aged 18 and over, with stylish surroundings, an impressive choice of restaurants (some of the best at sea, in my opinion), lively bars and plenty of entertainment.
It's a great fit for couples who enjoy good food and a sociable atmosphere. Just don't book expecting a whisper-quiet retreat. Virgin knows how to have a good time!
Celebrity is a lovely choice for couples who enjoy a more refined style of cruising. Think stylish surroundings, excellent dining, comfortable lounges and plenty of places to enjoy a quiet drink together.
There's still lots happening onboard, but the atmosphere is generally more relaxed than on some larger, family-focused ships.
Princess offers a traditional cruise experience with romantic dinners, Movies Under the Stars, relaxing lounges, spa treatments and beautiful destinations.
Princess was the first cruise line I sailed with, and I shared that first voyage with my husband. Those memories will stay with me forever. Little did I know that one holiday would spark a love affair with cruising that has taken me around the world!
If you'd rather discover destinations than race down waterslides, Viking is a wonderful choice. Its ocean and river cruises are for adults aged 18 and over, with an emphasis on culture, history, food and exploration.
The ships have a quieter feel, making them appealing to couples who enjoy a slower pace and a destination-focused holiday.
Image Credit: Celebrity Cruises
Adults-only cruising means no children onboard, but don't assume every ship offers the same atmosphere.
Virgin Voyages is lively and sociable, with plenty of entertainment and late-night fun. Viking has a more relaxed feel, with the focus on destinations, dining and enrichment.
Honey Tip: Adults-only doesn't automatically mean peaceful! Check the ship's atmosphere before booking. Some are known for parties and late-night entertainment, while others are better suited to couples looking to switch off.
Absolutely! And you don't need the most expensive suite or a luxury cruise line to enjoy a little romance.
It might be a sunset cocktail on deck, a lovely dinner, a couples' spa treatment or breakfast on your balcony as the coastline drifts past. Sometimes it's simply having nowhere particular to be and all the time in the world to enjoy each other's company.
Many cruise lines offer honeymoon and anniversary packages, which may include sparkling wine, chocolates, flowers or special dining experiences. Personally, I'm rather partial to a leisurely breakfast in bed!
Honey Tip: If you're celebrating, let the cruise line know when you book. Some packages need to be arranged in advance and may cost extra. You never know what little surprise might be waiting.
Image Credit: Virgin Voyages
Your cabin can make a big difference, particularly if you're after a little privacy and relaxation.
An inside cabin is usually the most affordable option and can be perfectly comfortable if you plan to spend most of your time enjoying the ship and exploring ashore. An ocean-view cabin brings in natural light, while a balcony gives you your own outdoor retreat.
There's something lovely about enjoying morning coffee together or watching the sunset without leaving your room. Suites offer more space and may come with extra benefits.
Honey Tip: If your budget allows, consider a balcony for a special occasion. Check the cabin's position before booking, too. You don't want chairs scraping across the pool deck above you to interrupt your romantic escape.
I'm a big fan of river cruising for couples who enjoy exploring at a gentler pace.
River ships are generally smaller than ocean-going vessels and often sail right into the heart of towns and cities. You can wake up somewhere new, enjoy breakfast and step ashore to explore.
European river journeys are wonderful for discovering historic towns, beautiful scenery, local food and wine. The smaller ships and intimate atmosphere make them a lovely way to see the world together without rushing from one place to the next.
Image Credit: Celebrity Cruises
They can be, particularly when you consider what's included in the fare.
Accommodation, many meals, entertainment and transport between destinations are generally covered. Some cruise lines also include drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities and excursions, while others charge extra.
When comparing prices, look beyond the advertised fare. Factor in flights, transfers, drinks, speciality dining, excursions and other extras.
Honey Tip: Don't choose a cruise on price alone. Look at the itinerary and how much time you'll spend in port versus at sea. If you love exploring, you'll want plenty of port days. If you're overdue for a proper break, a few lazy sea days might be just what the doctor ordered!
That depends on your destination and the style of cruise you've chosen. Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen and walking shoes are essentials.
If you enjoy dressing up for dinner, pack something special. Some ships have formal or dress-up evenings, while others are much more relaxed. Check the weather at your destinations and don't forget travel documents, medication and suitable clothing for shore excursions.
A cruise is also a great excuse to pack something lovely for a romantic dinner!
Image Credit: Princess
Absolutely. Both travellers should have appropriate travel insurance, even if you're covered under one policy.
Medical treatment onboard can be expensive, and emergency evacuation from a ship can involve significant costs. Check that your policy covers cruise travel, overseas medical expenses, emergency evacuation and cancellation.
If either traveller has a pre-existing medical condition, check the policy requirements carefully. It's also worth understanding what happens if one person becomes ill and the other needs to change or cancel their plans.
Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) so you understand the cover, exclusions and limits before travelling.
A cruise can be a wonderful way to reconnect, celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a change of scenery.
My advice? Choose a ship you both love, find an itinerary that excites you and don't plan every minute. Leave room for a spontaneous cocktail, an unexpected discovery or a lazy afternoon watching the ocean.
After all, the best memories are often the ones you didn't plan.
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