Smooth Sailing for Grown-Ups
Choosing a cruise line can be extremely tough. Although many cruise lines seem to offer all-inclusive nowadays, once you start picking apart the pieces, it can get very confusing trying to understand exactly what is included. When looking for a great all-inclusive cruise line, you should consider whether you want to travel with a focus on luxury, entertainment or on a small ship.
Some cruises offer all of this, but you also want to consider what you can’t live without when paying, such as onboard Wi-Fi, alcoholic drinks and shore excursions. Many ships chop and change their pricing so that some things aren’t automatically included in the all-inclusive price, leading you to pay more on the trip, but we’ve found the cruise lines that are the best value and most transparent for adults searching for an all-inclusive cruise.
Adult-Exclusive All-Inclusive Cruising
Regent Seven Seas
Regent Seven Seas consistently gets cited as one of the best cruise lines for an all-inclusive trip, thanks to its luxury amenities and reasonable pricing. Their fares generally include gratuities, drinks and minibars, plus a range of shore excursions in each port you visit. You also get shuttle service whenever you need it and access to a whole range of onboard dining options.
The beautiful suites boast unlimited Wi-Fi for a certain period and even better, most journey fares include the cost of a round-trip airfare in business class for overseas passengers. On top of this, airport-to-ship transfers and 24-hour room service will make sure you go from plane to cocktail hour in no time.
They also occasionally offer great promotions, such as complimentary pre or post-departure hotel stays and two-for-one cruise fares. The only extras you might need to consider paying for are premium spa treatments and specialist activities onshore that might require more expertise, but otherwise, you’ll find that everything you need is included.
Seabourn Cruises
Seabourn is one of the most luxurious options for an all-inclusive cruise due to having a limited number of passengers on each ship, meaning there is a more intimate atmosphere and personalized service.
The onboard dining options included in fares are second to none, with award-winning chefs on hand to cook up a storm. Other all-inclusive amenities are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, specialty dining experiences, onboard entertainment, water sports equipment, gratuities and certain shore excursions.
This is already a fantastic offering, but sometimes Seabourn also offers promotions that include round-trip airfares and discounted pre-cruise hotel stays. Once you’re on the ship, you can rest assured you’ve paid for ultimate luxury in your suite, which all have large beds, walk-in closets and marble bathrooms with big bathtubs, plus your own stocked bar with complimentary wine and spirits. The only things that cost more are spa services and Wi-Fi, but that’s a small price to pay for such an epic cruising experience.
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages is an all-around winner when it comes to dining all-inclusive onboard their incredible new ships. Journeys are adults only, with a no under-18s policy, and the all-inclusive fares cover all non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness classes and three meals a day.
Instead of a generic buffet, Virgin impresses with up to 25 different dining options on its ships, which span a range of global cuisines. You’ll also get to experience theater productions, group workouts, theme nights and live entertainment.
Prices only differ depending on the room you choose, and even the smallest are luxurious, although the suites feature in-room bars, balconies and private lounge access too. Missing from Virgin’s all-inclusive fares are spa treatments, alcoholic drinks, which start from around $5, and shore excursions, but considering the sheer amount provided on board, the fare already covers a huge amount.
Crystal
Crystal Cruises previously wouldn’t have been anyone’s first choice for an all-inclusive cruise, but since their relaunch in 2023, they’ve refocused their efforts on providing some great all-inclusive fares aboard their ships, the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.
Their ocean-view rooms have butler service, and you’ll also get fine dining at a range of different dining venues, including a complimentary reservation at Umi Uma by Nobu on certain cruises. Other great inclusions are in-suite dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, kids programs and gratuities. The crew-to-passenger ratio is generally 1:1 onboard, which means you’ll receive a truly personalized service.
During your sea days, there’s plenty to enjoy, from swimming pools to sports courts, afternoon tea, ballroom dancing and live theater performances. While this is all included, you can always upgrade further to try things like premium liquor, wine pairings with meals, cigars, spa treatments and shore excursions, which would otherwise be an additional cost. Crystal has definitely returned with a bang, marking its spot as one of the best all-inclusive cruise lines for adults.
Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises offers unforgettable voyages that many consider once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Catering exclusively to adults (18 and older), Viking's all-inclusive cruises are ideal for both couples and friend groups.
The comprehensive package offered on virtually all of their voyages includes non-alcoholic drinks, select alcoholic drinks at lunch and dinner, a shore excursion at each port, access to some parts of the spa, fitness classes, 24-hour room service, laundry facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi and airport transfers.
Rarely do they also do one-off promotions that include round-trip airfare. All of the rooms are stylish and comfortable, featuring spacious bathrooms and king-sized beds. The only additional expenses include spa treatments, gratuities and cocktails. This almost endless list of inclusions, along with amenities like onboard self-service laundry, mini-bar restocking and transportation at port, make Viking both a great all-inclusive cruise line for adults whilst also remaining impressive value.
Cruise into Bliss
As you embark on your journey to find the best all-inclusive cruise lines for adults, may the waves of luxury and relaxation guide you to unforgettable destinations. Whether you seek serene tranquility, exhilarating adventures or gourmet dining at sea, these cruise lines are ready to cater to your every whim. So set sail with confidence, knowing that a world of indulgence and exploration awaits you on the decks of these exceptional cruise lines. Bon voyage and may your travels be filled with endless moments of joy and discovery!