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Editor Pick

8 Best Cruise Lines for Couples

Updated: November 14, 2023

Written by

AAA Travel Editors

There are no one-size-fits-all excursions when it comes to the best cruise line for couples. Your cruise experience will be as unique as that first glance at your partner, so how do you pick a couples cruise vacation that's love at first sight?

Set your priorities first. Are you looking for an anniversary voyage or a cruise with no kids? Maybe you want to book a party trip with other couples? Are you just looking for a long weekend away?

You’re in luck since eight of the best cruise lines for couples are just waiting for you to book. If you're still having trouble deciding, then consider talking with a AAA Travel Agent. Remember, as a AAA member, you'll have access to some of the best savings and benefits when you book a cruise.

Royal Caribbean International: Best Cruise Line for Young Couples

Test your love's true romance by challenging them to ride the waves in Royal Caribbean's FlowRider surf simulator. But, that's not the only action-packed amenity that'll get your true love's heart pounding. For 20- and 30-something thrill-seekers, try escape rooms, rock climbing, bumper cars and bungee trampolines onboard before disembarking on your island holiday. 

When you book a Royal Caribbean International cruise as a AAA member, you'll receive a bottle of sparkling wine, a welcome fruit basket, and up to a $100 per stateroom onboard spending credit. 

Holland America Line: Best Couples Cruises for Your 50th Wedding Anniversary

Holland America is the perfect cruise line for older adults looking for romance and adventure. With fewer children onboard, the atmosphere is more relaxed and intimate, making it ideal for a romantic getaway. The ships also are disability-friendly, with mobility assist staterooms that make it easy for older adults to get around. And for couples who want to let loose and have some fun, Holland America offers B.B. King's Blues Club and the Rolling Stone Rock Room, providing the perfect setting for a boisterous date night. With ocean voyages to destinations all over the world, Holland America provides plenty of opportunities to explore new places and create lasting memories together.

Princess Cruises: Best Cruises for Couples with Kids

While most people think that romance and kids don't mix, Princess Cruises knows that the two can go hand-in-hand. Celebrating your love shouldn't come in last just because you have kids. Princess Cruises aims to offer the best in family-friendly sea getaways. From the Reef Family Splash Zone, an interactive splash pad, to Discovery and Animal Planet Excursions, there are activities for every member of your family to enjoy. Plus, you can book a babysitter for an evening so you can enjoy some much-needed adult time. Whether you're celebrating your love on Valentine's Day or your anniversary, Princess Cruises is the perfect way to show your family how much they mean to you.

Carnival Cruise Line: Best Cruises for Thrifty Travelers

Budget-minded vacationers, rejoice! You no longer have to sacrifice your sea-faring dreams for the sake of your wallet. Carnival Cruise Line offers low-cost cruises and flexible payment plans, so you can focus on enjoying your dream vacation. For couples looking for a romantic getaway, Carnival Cruise Line offers jaunts for two to five days at under $100 per person, per night. (Book ahead to confirm schedule and fare.) And with budget-friendly options like these, you can easily find the perfect cruise for you and your loved ones. So whether you're looking for a romantic escape or an unforgettable family vacation, Carnival Cruise Line has got you covered.

Azamara Club Cruises: Best Cruises for an Intimate Voyage

Big things come in small packages, and your romantic couples cruise is no exception. There's a reason why Azamara is called small luxury; its small luxury cruise ships are like floating boutique hotels, with longer cruises that allow you and your partner to explore romantic hot spots like Greece, Norway, Australia, France and Italy. The intimate ship setting makes it easy to bond with your loved one, and Azamara’s experienced staff are always on hand to help make your cruise unforgettable. Whether you're enjoying a candlelit dinner for two or exploring new ports of call together, an intimate cruise is the perfect way to spend quality time with your partner.

Celebrity Cruises: Best Couples Cruises for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Who was the first cruise line to legally marry same-sex couples? You guessed it — Celebrity Cruises. And Celebrity continues to be a popular choice for LGBTQ+ travelers. Ships host Pride events, drag performers and gay icons, making it a great choice for fun-loving couples looking for a romantic getaway. With Celebrity, travelers can relax knowing that they're sailing with a company that values romance and inclusivity.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise: Best Cruises for Couples Without Children

Are you looking for a cruise where you and your main squeeze can cuddle up without having to worry about minors underfoot? Uniworld's long-term policy is to not make any special arrangements or accommodations for children under the age of 18. River cruises are specifically designed for active travelers from 21 to 45 years old. As a result, you can expect a traditional cruising experience with the added advantages of inland travel. So if you're looking for an immersive romantic getaway, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises should be your ideal option.

Ama Waterways: Best Cruises for Wine Lovers

Ama Waterways is charting new territory in wine-themed cruises, showcasing what’s said to be the best libations at sea. Professional winemakers and vineyard owners will guide you and other lucky oenophiles through the often overwhelming world of vino both on the ship and at several juice-drenched destinations. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just getting started in your educational wine journey, these cruises offer the perfect way to explore the world of wine. Cheers!

Book Your Next Cruise with AAA

AAA Travel provides peace of mind when you travel — before, during and after your vacation! AAA Travel has teamed up with some of the industry's best cruise lines to provide you added amenities, AAA Vacations® 24/7 Member Care and Best Price Guarantee. Your next cruise vacation starts with AAA — your complete travel solution. Visit your local AAA Travel Agent or book at https://www.aaa.com/tripcanvas/category/cruises.

Written by

AAA Travel Editors

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