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
Feature image: P&O Cruises
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