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After months of playing the part of wedding ringleader, you and your betrothed deserve a stress-free vacation, the kind of honeymoon where all of the work is done for you. What you need is a cruise.
If the thought of cruising conjures up images of Captain Stubbing and grannies playing shuffleboard on the Lido Deck, think again, cruising is for everyone—young lovers and the young at heart. With so many on board perks and opportunities for pampering (think spa treatments, frothy piña coladas by the pool, and candlelit dinners for two), it’s ideal for honeymooners.
Cruising is also popular because it’s the ultimate in hassle-free traveling. You unpack only once, travel when you’re sleeping, and typically wake up to a stunning new destination each morning. And with an even broader range of itineraries available from more cruise lines than ever, there’s something for every couple, no matter the price range or level of activity you’re looking for. Bon voyage!
Cruise ship roundup
Hit the high seas with one of these cruise lines for a memorable honeymoon.
Carnival
They don’t call it “The Fun Ship!” for nothing. Carnival is known for its young, “Las Vegas of the seas” vibe. Itineraries range from three to 16 days, with destinations as diverse as Alaska, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, the Bahamas, and New England.
Biggest draw: the price; Carnival is one of the most budget-friendly cruise lines. Trips are generally competitive with any on-land resort alternative.
Biggest drawback: assigned seating at dinner. Ask about more intimate dining at the supper clubs on board.
Price: inexpensive. Visit carnival.com.
Disney
You loved the theme parks as a kid. Why not take to the seas with Mickey and the gang as a newlywed? Rooms are spacious, service and food are world-class, and there are plenty of magical memories to be made in ports of call such as Mexico, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. And with accoutrements such as the Disney Magic’s new spa villas, complete with indoor side-by-side spa treatment rooms, personal hot tub, and open air shower, you might not want to leave the ship.
Biggest draw: Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.
Biggest drawback: Unless you make reservations at Palo, Disney’s adults-only restaurant, you’ll spend each evening dining with other families’ tykes in tow.
Price: moderate. Visit disneycruise.com.
Silversea
This line offers four luxurious all-suite ships that are intimate and downright decadent. Silversea offers special on-board enrichment programs that cater to all tastes from golf enthusiasts to wine lovers and gourmands. Ports of call span the globe from the Far East and South Pacific to the Caribbean and Mexico, Africa, and the Mediterranean.
Biggest draw: Custom tailored trips—choose your ports, number of days, and accommodations.
Biggest drawback: The cost. As you’d expect, a cruise like this isn’t for honeymooners on a tight budget.
Price: very expensive. Visit silversea.com.
Star Clippers
Return to the golden age of the tall sailing ships with Star Clippers, the only modern-day cruise line of its kind that offers a mega-yacht experience. There’s a decidedly casual atmosphere on board and your activity level is up to you. Boating enthusiasts can lend a hand hoisting the sails or just relax and watch the waves roll by. With the honeymoon package, couples will be welcomed with a bottle of champagne in their stateroom upon arrival, along with a complimentary fruit and wine basket. Newlyweds are also given a special gift and certificate signed by the captain.
Biggest draw: The ships can visit smaller ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships.
Biggest drawback: nautical-themed cabins are stylish but small.
Price: moderate. Visit starclippers.com.
Windstar
With its smaller vessels, Windstar is a popular with honeymooners looking for an intimate vacation free from the crowds found on larger cruise lines. Two of its ships, the Star and Spirit offer a romance dinner featuring ingredients known for their aphrodisiac properties. And at mid-cruise honeymooners are treated to complimentary chocolate-covered strawberries delivered to their stateroom and rose petals on the bed at turndown. Lovebirds also receive an official honeymoon certificate signed by the captain and hotel manager on the last night on board.
Biggest draw: dining is always open seating.
Biggest drawback: a smaller ship equals less entertainment options on board.
Price: expensive. Visit windstarcruises.com.
