A luxury cruise line is beginning to transition to adult-only cruises.
Oceania Cruises announced that as of Jan. 7, it requires passengers to be older than 18 for all future voyages. Reservations that were booked earlier will still allow passengers of any age.
The change comes after the company conducted thorough research and found that customers preferred a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere.
“Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time again,” said Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Oceania Cruises, in a press release. “By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey — one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery.”
Oceania Cruises is not the only cruise line to offer adult-only cruises. Major cruise line Virgin Voyages operates entirely child-free, while Viking Cruises plans to have all its cruise lines be adult exclusive in 2018, according to the Los Angeles Times.
“The demand for these cruises continues to rise, which is why we’re seeing continued growth — whether that’s cruise lines dedicated to a strictly adults-only audience, specific ships designated as kid-free or special sailings for those looking to book that experience,” Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic, told Parade. “Sailing with families is a wonderful part of cruising, but our cruisers tell us sometimes, they’re just looking for a break.”
