Why Choose an Adult-Only Alaska Cruise

For those seeking a peaceful retreat in one of the world’s most stunning destinations, an adult-only Alaska cruise offers the perfect escape. Designed for travelers who want to unwind without the bustle of children, these cruises provide a serene environment filled with breathtaking views of glaciers, wildlife, and untouched landscapes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy refined dining, immersive excursions, or simply relax in peace, these cruises cater specifically to adult travelers, ensuring a tailored experience. If you’re after an adventure filled with luxury, exclusivity, and quiet moments amidst Alaska’s wild beauty, an adult-only cruise is an ideal choice for your next getaway.

The Adult-Only Experience: What Sets it Apart?

Adult-only Alaska cruises are specifically curated for adults, meaning you’ll find more mature entertainment, activities, and dining experiences. These cruises are designed to cater to an audience seeking relaxation and a refined atmosphere.

No Family Zones, No Distractions

A key feature of adult-only cruises is the peace they provide. There are no family zones or children’s areas, meaning the overall atmosphere is much quieter, providing a retreat from the noise and bustle that typically comes with a more family-friendly cruise. Without the distractions of kids’ clubs, water slides, or noisy pool areas, you can fully immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.

Curated Entertainment for Adults

Expect more mature and sophisticated entertainment options on an adult-only cruise. From jazz nights to wine-tasting events, these cruises offer an array of activities tailored for adults. You’ll find shows and performances with more adult themes, lectures on culture and history, and even dance classes geared toward a more mature audience.

Top 5 Adult-Only Cruise Ships

Finding the right adult-only Alaska cruise ship is key to a relaxing Alaskan vacation. Below are five great options, from the most affordable to the most luxurious, so you can choose the best fit based on your preferences and budget.

1. UnCruise Adventures – Wilderness Explorer

Price: Starting at $3,195 per person
Passengers: 76

Sailing Dates: May through September
Why It’s Great: The Wilderness Explorer from UnCruise Adventures provides an intimate, small-ship experience designed for adventure seekers. With fewer passengers, this cruise allows you to connect deeply with Alaska’s wilderness through kayaking, wildlife viewing, and nature hikes. The lack of children onboard ensures a quiet and serene atmosphere.

2. Viking Orion

Price: Starting at $4,099 per person
Passengers: 930

Sailing Dates: June through August
Why It’s Great: The Viking Orion is a sophisticated adult-only ship with no guests under 18, making it a true haven for adults seeking relaxation. It offers cultural enrichment programs, gourmet dining, and spacious suites, making it ideal for those who value luxury and tranquility. The serene atmosphere, along with destination-specific lectures and activities, creates an immersive experience.

3. Oceania Regatta

Price: Starting at $4,199 per person
Passengers: 684

Sailing Dates: May through September
Why It’s Great: The Oceania Regatta combines intimate luxury with a relaxed, child-free atmosphere. With exceptional dining options, personalized service, and small-ship charm, it’s an excellent choice for adult travelers. Guests can expect top-tier culinary experiences and beautifully appointed staterooms.

4. Seabourn Odyssey

Price: Starting at $5,299 per person
Passengers: 450

Sailing Dates: June through August
Why It’s Great: The Seabourn Odyssey offers an ultra-luxury experience tailored to adults, with all-suite accommodations, exceptional dining, and included excursions. The intimate ship size makes it perfect for exploring Alaska’s less-traveled areas in a calm, exclusive setting. It’s perfect for those seeking high-end luxury without the distractions of family-focused activities.

5. Regent Seven Seas Mariner

Price: Starting at $6,999 per person
Passengers: 700

Sailing Dates: May through September
Why It’s Great: The Regent Seven Seas Mariner is known for offering an all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruising experience. With gourmet meals, included shore excursions, and exceptional service, this ship is the epitome of sophistication. The quiet and refined atmosphere, combined with the ship’s spacious suites, make it an ideal adult-only option for travelers looking for the very best.

Best Activities Onboard for Adults

Adult-only Alaska cruises offer a wide array of activities designed to cater to adult travelers. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, enrichment, or adventure, these ships provide plenty of options to suit your interests.

1. Wine Tastings

Most adult-oriented cruises offer premium wine tastings where you can explore a variety of wines from around the world. These tastings are often led by experts who provide insight into each selection, helping you discover new favorites. It’s a sophisticated way to relax and socialize with fellow passengers while enjoying stunning views of Alaska’s landscape.

2. Spa and Wellness Retreats

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience with luxurious services that cater to your relaxation needs. Many adult-only cruises feature world-class spas offering massages, facials, and wellness treatments. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of adventure or simply taking a break, these spa facilities ensure you leave feeling revitalized.

3. Culinary Workshops

Food lovers will appreciate the hands-on culinary workshops offered on many adult-only cruises. Learn from professional chefs as they guide you through the preparation of gourmet dishes, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients from Alaska. These workshops provide an immersive experience for those who enjoy cooking and trying new flavors.

4. Fitness Classes and Yoga

Stay active during your cruise with fitness classes, yoga, and wellness sessions. Many ships offer outdoor yoga classes where you can practice with breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains as your backdrop. These classes not only help you stay fit but also offer a peaceful way to connect with Alaska’s natural beauty.

5. Adult-only lounges and Bars

Many ships feature adult-only lounges and bars, where you can relax in a peaceful, child-free environment. These spaces are perfect for enjoying a cocktail, reading a book, or simply unwinding with fellow travelers. With panoramic windows showcasing the beauty of Alaska, these lounges offer a serene atmosphere for adults seeking tranquility.

Adventures with an Age Limit

Alaska’s rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes make it the perfect destination for age-restricted adventures. For those seeking something a bit more exclusive, here are some highlights:

• Glacier Kayaking: Paddle through serene, glacial waters with an experienced guide in small groups, offering an intimate, quiet experience.
• Private Wildlife Safari: Discover Alaska’s wildlife up close with a private guide, focusing on bears, whales, and other wildlife sightings in remote areas.
• Zodiac Adventures: Navigate Alaska’s stunning fjords and secluded coves in a Zodiac boat, perfect for getting closer to the natural environment.
• Guided Hiking Expeditions: Explore Alaska’s scenic trails on a guided hike, where you’ll witness the stunning landscapes while learning about the local flora and fauna.

Day 1: Embarkation in Juneau

Board your ship in Juneau, and begin your adventure through Alaska’s wildest and most scenic areas. Meet your crew and fellow passengers as you sail into the untouched wilderness of Glacier Bay.

Day 2: Glacier Bay National Park

Spend the day exploring the iconic Glacier Bay, with guided kayaking, skiff tours, and up-close views of the massive glaciers and wildlife that call this area home.

Day 3: Chichagof Island

Explore the hidden coves of Chichagof Island, known for its rugged coastline and rich wildlife. Beachcombing and wildlife viewing are highlights of the day’s adventure.

Day 4: Icy Strait

Icy Strait offers prime opportunities for whale watching. Take a guided Zodiac tour or relax onboard as you look out for humpbacks and orcas in these nutrient-rich waters.

Day 5: Lynn Canal

Discover the dramatic fjords of the Lynn Canal. Kayak through some of the deepest fjords in North America or embark on a hiking expedition through this picturesque landscape.

Day 6: Admiralty Island

Home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world, Admiralty Island offers unparalleled wildlife viewing. Take part in a guided hike and keep your camera ready for bears and other wildlife.

Day 7: Endicott Arm

Sail through the ice-filled waters of Endicott Arm, passing towering cliffs and glaciers. The highlight of the day is Dawes Glacier, where you may witness the incredible sight of ice calving into the water.

Day 8: Disembarkation in Juneau

Return to Juneau to disembark, bringing your Alaskan adventure to a close. Reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had and the untouched landscapes you’ve explored.

Cruises that are Nearly Adult-Only

While not strictly adult-only, the following cruises tend to have fewer children onboard, providing a quieter and more relaxing experience for adult travelers. For the best experience, consider traveling during off-peak seasons when fewer families are onboard.

1. Celebrity Millennium

Celebrity Cruises is known for providing a more sophisticated cruise experience, with fewer children and more adult-oriented activities. The Celebrity Millennium is a great option for adults looking for a quiet, refined atmosphere.

2. Holland America Line – Eurodam

Holland America Line’s Eurodam is known for attracting an older crowd, making it a quieter, more peaceful option for those looking to enjoy Alaska’s beauty without too many children onboard.

When to Book Your Adult-Only Cruise

Timing is everything when it comes to booking an adult-only Alaska cruise. For the most serene experience, consider traveling in May or September when school is in session and fewer families are likely to be onboard. Booking during these shoulder seasons can also offer lower prices and fewer crowds at popular destinations.

May: Early Season Peace

In May, the cruise season is just starting, which means fewer tourists overall. This is a great time to experience Alaska’s blooming landscapes and quieter excursions.

September: The End of the Season Calm

September is another excellent month to enjoy an adult-only Alaska cruise. With children back in school and the season winding down, the atmosphere is much more relaxed, and you can often find great deals on last-minute bookings.

Packing Tips for Your Adult-Only Alaska Cruise

Packing for an Alaska cruise requires careful planning due to the varying weather conditions you’ll encounter. Here’s a list of essentials to ensure you’re well-prepared for your adult-only adventure:

• Layered Clothing: Alaska’s weather can change rapidly, so pack layers to adjust easily to different temperatures. Include a waterproof jacket, thermal wear, and comfortable hiking clothes.
• Comfortable Shoes: You’ll want durable, waterproof hiking shoes for excursions and a pair of comfortable shoes for onboard activities.
• Binoculars: To fully appreciate Alaska’s wildlife and stunning scenery, bring a pair of binoculars to get up-close views of bears, whales, and eagles.
• Camera: Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife provide endless photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone with plenty of storage for pictures.

Conclusion

An adult-only Alaska cruise offers a serene and sophisticated way to explore one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. With exclusive excursions, curated onboard activities, and intimate settings, these cruises are perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful escape. Whether you choose a small, adventurous vessel or a luxurious, all-suite ship, you’re sure to experience Alaska like never before.

For more travel inspiration, explore our detailed guides on Alaska to Japan cruises, discover the 20 best things to do in Sitka, Alaska, or check out our ultimate guide to Alaska cruises with kids.