There are no one-size-fits-all excursions regarding 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 or booking a cruise with a honeymoon destination in mind?
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.
1. Royal Caribbean
- Best for: Young couples
- AAA member benefit: One complimentary 8x10 onboard print or digital photograph per stateroom on any seven-night or longer sailing when booking a balcony and suite stateroom category.
- AAA Vacations® benefit:
- Sparkling wine placed in stateroom upon arrival
- A welcome plate of chocolate-covered strawberries placed in stateroom upon arrival
- $25 per stateroom onboard spending credit (six nights or less balcony and above)
- $50 per stateroom onboard spending (7 – 10 nights balcony and above)
- $100 per stateroom onboard spending (11+ nights balcony and above)
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.
2. Cunard
- Best for: A sophisticated and elegant cruise experience
- AAA member benefit: N/A
- AAA Vacations® benefit: Additional $100 onboard credit per stateroom for all open voyages seven nights and longer on Queen Anne®, Queen Mary 2®, Queen Victoria® and Queen Elizabeth®.
- Princess and Queens Grill Suites:
- $500 per stateroom on 7-17-night voyages
- $900 per stateroom on 18 nights or longer voyages
- Britannia accommodations (Oceanview to Balcony):
- $200 per stateroom on 7-17-night voyages
- Princess and Queens Grill Suites:
For couples seeking the best luxury cruise line for a romantic getaway, Cunard is the perfect choice. The line's luxurious amenities, attentive service and timeless ambiance create a perfect setting for romance. Cunard's ships are known for their grand public spaces, like ballrooms and casinos, offering an opportunity to dress up and enjoy a night out.
3. Azamara Club Cruises
- Best for: An intimate voyage
- AAA member benefit: $150 per stateroom onboard spending credit on select sailings in a Club Ocean View stateroom or above.
- AAA Vacations® benefit: $200 per stateroom onboard spending credit
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.
As one of the least crowded cruise ships you’ll find, 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.
4. Celebrity Cruises
- Best for: LGBTQ+ travelers
- AAA member benefit: Onboard credit per stateroom based on category booked (for all departures three nights or longer, excluding Galapagos):
- $25 (outside)
- $50 (balcony)
- $75 (Concierge Class and above)
- AAA Vacations® benefit: Onboard spending credit per stateroom based on category booked:
- $25 (outside)
- $75 (balcony)
- $100 (Concierge Class and above)
Who was the first cruise line to legally marry same-sex couples? You guessed it — Celebrity Cruises, one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cruises around. 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.
5. Carnival Cruise Line
- Best for: Thrifty travelers
- AAA member benefit: Up to $200 per stateroom onboard spending credit for Interior Oceanview Balcony/Suite:
- 3 - 5 Day Cruises $50 $75 $100
- 6 + Day Cruises $100 $150 $200
- AAA Vacations® benefit (not available on sailings less than three nights): $25 per stateroom onboard spending credit (3-5 days, ocean view)
- $50 per stateroom onboard spending credit (3-5 days, balcony and suites)
- $50 per stateroom onboard spending credit (6 + days, ocean view)
- $75 per stateroom onboard spending credit (6+ days, balcony and suites)
- Two-category upgrade
Budget-minded cruisers, 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 or the perfect honeymoon cruise, Carnival Cruise Line offers jaunts for two to five days at under $100 per person per night. 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.
6. Regent Seven Seas
- Best for: An all-inclusive experience
- AAA member benefit: Up to $400 per suite, onboard spending credit on selected promotional voyages.
- AAA Vacations® benefit: Choice of one of two Complimentary Regent Choice Shore Excursions (first two guests in stateroom).
Regent Seven Seas is perfect for couples looking for an all-inclusive, luxurious cruise experience. Regent Seven Seas offers an intimate and unforgettable atmosphere with spacious suites, personalized service and gourmet dining. The cruise line's itineraries focus on smaller ports and hidden gems, allowing couples to explore new destinations together. On board, couples can enjoy various activities, from relaxing in the spa to participating in cooking demonstrations or wine tastings.
7. Princess Cruises
- Best for: Couples with kids
- AAA member benefit: Reduced deposit (as low as $50 per person) along with a complimentary Princess Medallion clip (first two guests in the stateroom) during quarterly cruise sales
- AAA Vacations® benefit:
- $25 OBC per stateroom (six days or less)
- $50 OBC per stateroom (7-10 days)
- $100 OBC per stateroom (11-16 days)
- $150 OBC per stateroom (17-44 days)
- $50 shore excursion credit per stateroom
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 last just because you have kids, and Princess Cruises aims to offer the best cruises for families.
From the Reef Family Splash Zone, an interactive splash pad, to Discovery and Animal Planet Excursions, there are plenty of things to do on the cruise the whole family can 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.
8. Seabourn Cruise Line
- Bet for: Couples seeking a luxurious yacht-like experience
- AAA member benefit: $300 per suite (double occupancy) onboard spending credit on select departures. Singles receive $150 per suite.
- AAA Vacations® benefit: $200 per suite onboard spending credit on selected sailings.
With a small passenger capacity and all-inclusive amenities, Seabourn Cruise Line is perfect for couples seeking an intimate and luxurious yacht-like experience. With a small passenger capacity and all-inclusive amenities, Seabourn offers a personalized and relaxing atmosphere. The line's spacious suites, gourmet dining and attentive service ensure a romantic cruise experience. You’ll find smaller destinations on Seabourn’s itineraries, allowing couples to explore new places together.
9. Oceania Cruises
- Best for: A culturally immersive experience
- AAA member benefit: $100 per person onboard spending credit on select voyages.
- AAA Vacations® benefit: Free Pre-Paid Gratuities (for first two guests in stateroom), complimentary group wine tasting with sommelier (for first two guests in stateroom).
Oceania Cruises caters to couples passionate about enriching their minds and palettes. The line's intimate atmosphere and focus on culinary excellence create a perfect setting for a romantic getaway. On board, you’ll find a team of world-class chefs who prepare delicious meals inspired by the destinations you visit. The cruise line also offers a variety of cultural enrichment programs — from lectures by guest speakers to cooking classes — that couples can enjoy together.
10. Viking Ocean + Expedition Cruises
- Best for: An adventurous getaway
- AAA member benefit: $100 per person shipboard credit for all cruises 8-11 days, $200 per person shipboard credit for all cruises 12 days or longer
- AAA Vacations® benefit: N/A
Viking Ocean and Expedition Cruises offers a unique blend of exploration and luxury, making it one of the best cruise lines for adults. Viking's expedition cruises take couples to remote and pristine destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic. These cruises offer an opportunity to experience the wonders of the natural world together.
Viking’s itineraries focus on cultural enrichment and typically feature longer port stays that allow you to delve deeper into each destination. On board, you’ll find a variety of activities, from lectures by destination experts to cooking classes with regional specialties.
11. Holland America Line
- Best for: Your 50th wedding anniversary
- AAA member benefit: $50 onboard spending credit per person for the first two guests in the stateroom
- AAA Vacations® benefit (to 1-night Pacific Coast cruises, World Cruise and Grand Voyages):
- $50 onboard spending credit per person for the first two guests in the stateroom
- $50 Denali Dollars per person for first two guests on Alaska Cruise tours Verandah staterooms and above
Holland America is the perfect cruise line for older adults looking for romance and adventure or for those seeking the best anniversary cruises. With fewer children onboard, the atmosphere is more relaxed and intimate, making it ideal for a romantic getaway. The ships also accommodate those with disabilities; there are a number of rooms designed specifically for wheelchair and scooter accessibility, making it easy for older adults to get around.
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.
12. Silversea Cruises
- Best for: Worldwide exploration
- AAA member benefit: Up to $300 per person onboard credit on selected sailings
- AAA Vacations® benefit: N/A
If you’re after an ultra-luxurious experience with itineraries that explore a diverse range of destinations, Silversea Cruises is for you. Traveling anywhere from the Mediterranean to Antarctica, Silversea offers the best luxurious on-ship experience and exciting destination-focused itineraries for the travel-savvy. Whether you want to relax at sea with a spa treatment or explore the corners of the Arctic, Silversea won’t disappoint.
13. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise
- Best for: Couples without children
- AAA member benefit: $250 per couple savings on cruises up to 13 days, $500 per couple savings on cruises of 14 days or more
- AAA Vacations® benefit: $300 per couple onboard spending credit
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, and river cruises are specifically designed for active travelers from 21 to 45 years old.
These ships have a smaller passenger capacity compared to mainstream cruise lines, making this line one of the best small cruise lines for a serene environment. Uniworld cruises also sail along some of the most romantic rivers in the world, such as the Danube, the Rhine and the Seine, making it the perfect choice for a couple’s trip.
FAQs About Going On a Cruise as a Couple
Still have questions about the best cruises for couples? Find answers below.
How Do I Choose a Cruise Line for a Couple’s Trip?
Choosing the right cruise line depends on what you’re looking for in a cruise. Consider factors like:
- The ship's size and atmosphere
- Dining quality
- Entertainment options
- Destinations visited
- Level of luxury desired
Research different cruise lines and read reviews to find out exactly what each offers. You can also consider booking a cruise with a travel agent who specializes in cruises.
What Cruise Destinations Are Best When Traveling as a Couple?
The best cruise destinations while traveling as a couple depend on your interests and preferences. Some popular options include the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Alaska.
The Mediterranean offers a rich history, stunning architecture and delicious cuisine. The Caribbean is perfect for relaxation and water sports. Alaska is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. If you’re looking for honeymoon destinations, consider river cruises, which can offer a more intimate experience.
How Can I Make a Couple’s Cruise Special for My Partner?
There are many ways to make a couple's cruise special. Consider booking a cruise suite with a balcony or ocean view, surprising your partner with a romantic dinner or spa treatment or planning a special shore excursion. You may also want to pack a special gift or write a love letter to your partner.
Book Your Next Couple’s Cruise with AAA
With their diverse range of itineraries, luxurious amenities and attentive service, these best cruise lines for couples offer the perfect escape for romance and adventure. With a AAA Membership, you’ll find many ways to save on your next trip.
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 added amenities, AAA Vacations® 24/7 Member Care and Best Price Guarantee. Visit your local AAA Travel Agent or book here.