Major cruise line announces switch to adults-only voyages
Holidaymakers planning a peaceful, child-free trip across the ocean will be pleased to hear a major cruise line has entered the adults-only scene.
Holidaymakers planning a peaceful, child-free trip across the ocean will be pleased to hear a major cruise line has entered the adults-only scene.
Oceania Cruises, a luxury operator based in America, will now exclusively be offering voyages for adults.
The transition began on January 7, with bookings made on or after this date only accepted for over 18s.
Any reservations made before then for children will be honoured, but no new bookings for under 18s can be made.
Oceania hopes the move will elevate 'the onboard ambience' and revealed the decision was made in response 'to the preferences of its guests'.
The company carried out 'extensive research' into what its 'loyal repeat' customers were looking for.
It found people booked the cruise line for its 'serene atmosphere, sophisticated service and unhurried pace'.
This is an experience Oceania Cruises feels is sought after by 'mature, affluent travellers'.
Oceania Cruises, a luxury operator based in America, will now exclusively be offering voyages for adults
Chief commercial officer Nathan Hickman told USA Today: 'I'll be honest with you, a good segment of our guests already thought we were adult-only, because we don't have a lot of kids.'
He estimates that children only make up a small percentage of their guests and said it was so little it was 'almost a rounding error', with the average age of those on board being mid-60s.
Jason Montague, the company's chief luxury officer, said: 'Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time again.
'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.'
The company recently announced it had launched a whopping 129-day 'Kangaroo Route' from Sydney to London.
Set to depart on February 26, 2027, passengers will enjoy views of Australia's captivating coastlines, and then spend two months in Asia.
The itinerary also includes Egypt, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, before cruising through the Mediterranean.
Beautiful destinations in Europe feature too, including sun-kissed shores of Greece and Italy, as well as medieval cities in Croatia and Spain's Costa del Sol.
The transition began on January 7, with bookings made on or after this date only accepted for over 18s
Across the four months, the ship will visit four continents, 34 countries, and 80 different ports.
It features overnight stays in various locations including Cairns, Shanghai, Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, Luxor and Bordeaux.
The trip comes with a hefty price tag and tickets start at £48,919 for a Veranda Stateroom.
It includes free unlimited beer, wine and spirits, or if alcohol doesn't appeal, passengers can opt for shore excursion credit instead.