In short
A cruise suits couples because the planning is done and there is time both together and apart. Choose a balcony cabin, travel outside school holidays for a calmer ship, and look for adults-only areas and a table for two. Tell the cruise line about an anniversary when you book.
Why a cruise suits couples
- No arguing about the plan. The route is fixed; you only choose what to do in each port.
- Together and apart. One goes to the spa, the other to a talk or the gym — and you meet for dinner.
- A new place without effort. No driving, no train tickets, no checking out.
- Easy to build around a date. Sailings are published well ahead, so you can pick one that includes your anniversary or birthday.
Routes for couples
| Route | Mood | Best time |
|---|---|---|
| Norwegian fjords | Quiet, scenic, the view from the balcony is the highlight | May to September |
| Mediterranean | Old towns, food and wine, warm evenings on deck | April to October; May, June and September are calmer |
| Caribbean | Beaches, warm sea, sunsets — winter sun | December to April |
| Northern lights | Snow, dark skies and the chance of the aurora | October to March |
| River cruise | Calm, a different town every day, small ships | Spring to autumn; Christmas markets in December |
Time for the two of you on a big ship
- A balcony cabin. Breakfast or a glass of wine with a view, without anyone else — on a scenic route it is the best place on the ship.
- Adults-only areas. Many large ships have a sun deck, pool or spa area for adults only; some charge for access.
- A table for two. Ask for it when you book or on the first day; in specialty restaurants (usually paid) it is easier.
- The quiet hours. Early morning on deck and the evening after the shows are calm even on full ships.
- Outside school holidays. Fewer families, calmer pools and easier tables.
Celebrating an occasion on board
- Tell the cruise line when you book that you are celebrating an anniversary or birthday; it is noted on your booking.
- Extras on board: many lines offer celebration packages — flowers, a cake, sparkling wine in the cabin, a dinner — usually for a fee.
- Choose the day: a sea day or an evening in port is better for a special dinner than an early start the next morning.
- A proposal at sea: ask guest services on the first day for a quiet spot and time — see our Valentine's Day cruise guide.
Planning around a specific date? Read how to plan a cruise around a milestone.
Common questions
Is a cruise romantic?
It can be: sunsets on deck, dinners with a view and a balcony of your own. It depends on the route and the ship — a fjord or river cruise is quieter than a big ship in the school holidays.
Is a balcony cabin worth it for a couple?
On scenic routes and longer cruises, usually yes. On a busy route with a port every day, many couples find a window cabin enough.
Are there adults-only areas on cruise ships?
Many large ships have an adults-only sun deck, pool or spa area. Some are included, some charge for access — check the ship's deck plan.
How do we celebrate an anniversary on a cruise?
Mention it when you book, ask about the line's celebration packages and plan the special dinner on a sea day or a relaxed evening.
When is the quietest time to cruise as a couple?
Outside school holidays: for example May, June and September in the Mediterranean, or January in the Caribbean.
Keeping it affordable
Whether it is your first cruise together or a tradition, the same club rules apply to each booking: the member price (INsider Pricing), about 17% below the retail price, or your Reward Points, which can cover up to half of the price of qualifying bookings. They do not add up in one booking. Not every cruise line can be booked through the club: check the specific sailing in the club's search. How booking with points works →
General information; adults-only areas, packages and dining options differ by cruise line and ship. Percentages describe the club's rules and are indicative. Reislite is an independent information site run by partners, not a website of inCruises.