Cruising for Millennials - Is It a Non-Starter?

When starting this blog, my intention was to demonstrate that cruising is a holiday choice for everyone, not just the elderly.  Whilst more traditionally chosen by the retired (they have the benefit of more time and disposable income after all), cruising has now become mainstream.  

Cruise lines have, in recent years, invested heavily in state-of-the art features and technology specifically aimed at attracting younger passengers, introducing more contemporary public spaces and alternative entertainment.  Having already captivated the ‘Baby Boomers’, they turned their attentions to a younger generation of potential passenger.  So that would include Millennials then, right? Well - sort of.

Am I a Millennial?

It depends what your definition of ‘Millennial’ is.   The dictionary definition is as follows:

 “a person reaching young adulthood in the early 21st century“. 

However, this definition seems to be quite fluid with a variety of opinions as to the date range which applies. Overall, the earliest proposed birthdate for Millennials is 1976 and the latest 2004.  And that is where it becomes problematic if you are one of the Millennials born after 1999 and want to cruise independently.

Cruise Age Restrictrictions

Most cruise lines have a minimum booking age of 21.  In fact on most US ships you are considered ‘a minor’ if under 21.  This is an alien concept to U.K., European and Australian travellers for example, who officially reach adulthood at 18.

There are a few exceptions- for example Azamara, NCL and Virgin Voyages will accept “under-aged” legally married couples; Carnival and Celebrity will allow legally married couples or serving military personnel between 18-20 to book and travel “unaccompanied’ provided supporting documentation is provided.  Some lines go even further (Costa for example), insisting that guests between 21-24 have to share a cabin with a companion who is aged at least 25.  Oh, and even if you manage to get onboard - you won’t be able to drink alcohol or play in the casino until you are 21 (you may have beer or wine if you have written parental consent, and a few lines will allow gambling from 18).

Who takes under-21 bookings?

British cruise lines P&O, Marella and even Cunard do allow you to book and travel unaccompanied from aged 18, and to drink alcohol. Royal Caribbean have a minimum age of 21 for departures from US ports but for departures from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand the minimum age is eighteen (18).

Should Millennials Choose To Cruise?

So should you give up on the idea of a cruise until your late twenties? Definitely not! The industry needs you, and you need to cruise.

Just make sure you choose the right cruise line, departure port or travelling companion or get ‘bank of mum and dad’ to sub you and go with the ‘rents (you can lose them once on board)! Guaranteed it will be the best vacation you will ever experience!