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Best cruises for young adults looking for adventure in 2024
These cruise lines were made for 20-30-year-old millennials.
Top cruise deals
Cruising has come a long way since the days when empty nesters and retirees filled the decks on long journeys across the ocean. These days you can find everything from themed cruises to off-the-beaten-track expeditions.
Cruises for 20-somethings are no exception. On top of featuring your standard cruise deck chairs, these also include activities such as clubbing, concerts and risque performances onboard, as well as hiking, kayaking and pub crawling onshore.
Want to cruise a party boat without the families and oldies? These are some of the best cruise lines for 20-30-year-olds that are geared more toward the younger crowd.
Our favourite cruise lines for young adults
Contiki's sailing trips
Specialising in unforgettable journeys in Europe, Asia, Latin America, the USA and more for 18-35 year olds, Contiki's small-boat trips are not to be overlooked.
- Young adult activities: Snorkelling, sailing, hiking and kayaking.
- Adults-only sundeck? No. However, independent travellers must be at least 18 years.
G Adventures' sailing trips
With tours for the budget conscious, G Adventures calls to like-minded and aged travellers from around the world with its marine adventures.
Naturally, the destinations this company cruises to are just as adventurous as the folk who embark on its ships. G Adventures' marine tours include sailings in the Galapagos Islands, Greek Isles, Cuban Coast, Antarctica and the Arctic.
- Young adult activities: Snorkelling, sailing, hiking and kayaking.
- Adults-only sundeck? No. However, independent travellers must be at least 18 years old. On non-family tours, children over 12 are permitted with an accompanying adult.
Topdeck's sailing trips
Catering to the 18-30s crowd, Topdeck knows how difficult it can be to budget for a life-changing adventure.
- Young adult activities: Snorkelling, sailing, hiking and kayaking.
- Adults-only sundeck? No. However, independent travellers must be at least 18 years.
MSC Cruises
Cash in on your youth with MSC Cruises. It offers discounts for 18-29 year olds. No joke.
If you thought that your youth discounts stopped when you turned 18, think again. MSC Cruises encourages young passengers by offering them discounts per cabin for couples and groups. Better get the gang together.
- Young adult activities: Bars, spa, fitness centre, shopping, live music and theatre shows.
- Adults-only sundeck? Called the Top 18, this is located on the 18th deck of the Fantasia-class ships and features spa services, bar and relaxation pods.
Travel Talk
Tailored for the 18-39 crew, small groups tours give you the experience of a lifetime without breaking the bank.
Experience the high seas on a modern pirate ship in Croatia or traditional Turkish gulet as you explore everything the region has to offer.
- Young adult activities: Rafting, ziplining, hot-air ballooning, bars and onboard parties.
- Adults-only sundeck? Most ships have at least two decks and a sundeck with sunbeds and chairs.
What to look for in a cruise for young adults
- Unique bars and clubs on board that will keep you entertained throughout the cruise.
- Activities to keep you moving during the day like rock climbing walls and surfing simulators.
- Night-time fun like comedy shows, theatre performances, live music and themed events.
- Adults-only spaces like casinos, sun-decks and relaxations areas.
- Well-planned shore excursions to make the most of your days off the ship
- Solo-friendly cabins so you can avoid the dreaded single supplement fee if you’re travelling on your own.
Top cruise deals from these lines
Deal
Up to 84% off Carnival Cruises from Brisbane
Discount applies on brochure price of select Carnival Cruise vacations. Valid on select 3- to 7-night Carnival Cruises departing Brisbane on select dates for 2024. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 45% off Australia and New Zealand cruises
Available on select dates in 2023 with Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line and more. Sample rate is for a 3-night cruise with Carnival Cruises.
Deal
Up to 40% off cruises
Get up to 40% off cruises + drinks & Wi-Fi included + up to $400 onboard credit + kids sail free at MSC Cruises. Destinations include the Caribbean, The Bahamas, Bermuda, and Europe. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Royal Caribbean Cruises: Up to 60% off your 2nd guest plus kids sail FREE
Available for travel on select dates until 31 December 2025. Destinations include the Bahamas, Alaska, the South Pacific, and more. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 50% off Norwegian cruise line + FREE open bar, dining, and Wi-Fi
Get up to to 50% off sailings aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line and enjoy unlimited drinks, FREE specialty dining, and FREE Wi-Fi at sea. Limited time offer. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Royal Caribbean Cruises: Up to 30% off plus kids sail FREE
Available for travel on select dates until 31 December 2023. Destination includes the Bahamas, Alaska, South Pacific, and more. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Get 3 free amenities with Celebrity Cruises
Available on Alaska cruise in 2023. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 71% off international holiday cruises
Available on select cruise dates. Destinations include Alaska, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, Australia and more aboard popular cruise liners such as Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and more.
Deal
3+ nights last-minute cruises from US$89
Available on select travel dates with Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and more. Sample rate is for a 3-night Bahamas cruise with Carnival Cruises. Destinations include Australia, Japan, Vietnam, Italy and Alaska. T&Cs apply.
Feature image: P&O Cruises
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