Should Luxury Cruise Lines Ban Kids? Oceania Cruises goes adult-only
- Esther
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
As you might have heard, Oceania Cruises has announced that all new bookings will now be for adults only, effectively banning children from their ships. This has sparked quite a debate in the luxury cruise line industry.
On one hand, banning children ensures a serene, adult-focused experience. On the other hand, it excludes families who enjoy cruising in luxury.
Some luxury cruise lines, like Explora Journeys, still welcome children on board. However, during festive sailings such as Christmas or New Year, the number of children tends to rise, which is not always appreciated by adult guests.
So, if children are allowed, should there be a maximum percentage on board to preserve the luxury experience? Where should cruise lines draw the line?
Oceania Cruises luxury cruise line goes adults-only
"Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time again," stated Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. "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."
This announcement, made on January 8th, 2026, marks a significant change in the luxury cruise industry.
Oceania Cruises is a luxury-leaning, upper-premium cruise line, known for refined dining, elegant ships, and a serene, adult-friendly atmosphere. By listening to their guests’ preferences, Oceania has chosen to differentiate itself from other luxury cruise lines that still accept children on board, creating a truly tranquil experience for adult travelers.
Why banning kids makes sense for luxury cruise lines?
Luxury cruises are all about tranquility, elegance, and exceptional service. By limiting the number of children on board or going fully adults-only cruise lines can ensure quiet public spaces, fine dining without disruptions, and personalized luxury service that meets guests’ expectations.
Many travelers choose a luxury cruise precisely for the adult-focused atmosphere, where they can relax, enjoy sophisticated amenities, and immerse themselves in the destinations without noise or distractions.
An adults-only policy helps protect the serene and upscale feel that defines the luxury cruising experience, maintaining the calm environment that keeps returning guests coming back.
Which luxury cruise lines still accept children on board?
While some lines, like Oceania Cruises, have chosen to go adults-only, there are luxury cruise lines that still welcome children. These include:
Explora Journeys
Silversea
Regent Seven Seas
Seabourn
It’s important to note that even on these lines, the onboard experience is primarily adult-focused. Facilities for children are limited, and the overall atmosphere remains calm and refined, in line with luxury expectations.
During holiday sailings, such as Christmas or New Year, the number of children on board can increase significantly. While families enjoy this, some adult guests feel that it slightly impacts the serene and upscale ambiance typically expected on luxury cruises.
Where should luxury cruise lines draw the line?
The question of children on board is not always black and white. If luxury cruise lines choose to accept children, where should they draw the line?
Should there be a maximum percentage of children allowed per sailing?
Should there be stricter age restrictions?
Should there be specific sailings dedicated to families?
Balancing the needs of adult guests seeking tranquility with those of families who enjoy cruising in luxury can be challenging. Too many children on board can alter the serene, sophisticated atmosphere, while strict restrictions may exclude families who value premium experiences.
Ultimately, this is a question for both cruise lines and travelers: How can luxury cruising maintain its adult-focused appeal without alienating families?
My experience
When I worked on the Legend of the Seas, there were about 2,300 guests on board, and during the summer we had around 800 children, which is a lot. This was completely normal for mainstream cruise lines, and children are of course part of the cruising experience.
However, the number of children can vary significantly from cruise to cruise, which sometimes affects the onboard atmosphere and is something that both families and adult passengers notice.
My insider tip: If you are seeking absolute peace, it’s best to avoid even luxury cruises during school holidays or the peak summer months..
If luxury cruise lines choose to continue accepting children, they could implement a maximum percentage per sailing. This ensures the adult-focused luxury atmosphere stays intact while still welcoming families who value a luxury experience. It’s all about finding that perfect balance.
The question will remain: will other luxury lines follow?
Want to read more? Check out:Is there still a formal night on cruises?
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