Gary Bembridge's Tips For Travellers

Adult Cruisers Should Be Ready For This (Podcast #565)

·15 min·1 clip
Adult couples are being kicked out of their chosen cabins because cruise lines need rooms for larger families.
The episode begins by noting the cruise industry's focus on attracting first-time cruisers and families, even from traditionally adult-oriented lines like Holland America and Princess. This shift prompts a discussion of unique tips and disappointments for adult cruisers. A key issue is couples being moved from cabins that can accommodate more people to make room for families, especially during peak seasons like Alaska and Christmas Caribbean cruises. On the positive side, adults can take children or grandchildren for free or at low cost on lines like MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean. Adult-only cruising options are expanding, with lines like Viking, Virgin Voyages, and UK-based Saga offering ships for guests 18 and over. A surprising twist is the availability of swingers and nudist charters on mainstream lines, such as Desire Cruises on Oceania and Bare Essentials on Norwegian. Even family-focused lines like Disney Cruise Line have adult-only areas, including pools, restaurants, and excursions. Major resort ships from Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess also feature adult-only spaces like solariums and vibe clubs. The episode warns that recreational drugs, including cannabis and CBD, are prohibited on all cruise lines, with examples of passengers being banned. Money-saving tips include using casino play to earn free or discounted cruises, with points tracked through cruise cards. Adults can also access discounts through senior rates, job-related inter-line fares for travel industry workers, and organizations like AARP. The host promotes cruise maps from thecruisemaps.com and his YouTube channel for more tips.
Listen to the show on