Adult Cruises

Although not every ship is child free, many cruise lines offer a more adult experience to those who want it. The following are some of the more popular examples of an adult cruise experience.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is one of the few cruise lines to offer adult cruises where the minimum age is 18 years. Two child free ships in its fleet; the Arcadia offers a contemporary cruise experience, her modern flair and signature features set her apart. Choice is her watchword and everywhere you go you will find evidence of her unique style and innovation. For a more intimate holiday choose Artemis, the smallest member of the P&O Cruises fleet. Artemis is friendly, intimate and child-free. You will find every facility you would expect on board a P&O Cruises ship from a spa to a library and even a cyb@study. And with outside and balcony cabins only (the first ship ever to be built in this way), you need never be far from an ocean view.

Holland America Line

For couples of all ages Holland America Line offers relaxing holidays. There is time to spend together - or do what you like doing most on holiday (whether that's lounging around poolside, maybe a workout in the sea view fitness centre, joining a cooking demonstration or taking an iPod are tour of all the beautiful antiques on your ship), then meet up for cocktails at one of the many bars.

Celebrate a special occasion with a table for 2 at the romantic reservations only 'Pinnacle Grill'; enjoy a couple's massage at the sumptuous Greenhouse Spa, snuggle up over an expresso in the Explorers Lounge and listen to jazz, piano or a string quartet - or head for the more contempory sounds of the nightclub!

Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Lines broke the mould with the 'freestyle cruising' concept, placing the emphasis on fun, freedom and flexibility. There are no timetables, no fixed meal times and no rigid dress codes - you set your own style and pace. There are up to 10 restaurants on board, meaning you can eat at a different venue every night if you want. And, when it comes to activities, there are no schedules to follow - simply do what you want, when you want. Norwegian Cruise Lines offers spacious and comfortable Staterooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV, fridge and safety deposit boxes. Upgrades are also available to an ocean view with balcony.

Cunard Line

Cunard's magnificent flagship, Queen Mary 2 is perhaps the greatest ocean liner of all time! Harking back to the golden age of ocean travel, she effortlessly combines old-world opulence with modern convenience, providing impeccable service, superb entertainment and gourmet cuisine. Amenities include the world-renowned Canyon Ranch Spa Club, 4 outdoor pools, 14 bars, 10 restaurants, the Empire casino and Mayfair range of shops. Dressing up for the evening is all part of the experience, so pack your tuxedo and evening gown! There are 4 levels of accommodation, ranging from Standard Inside Staterooms with king-size or twin beds to Deluxe Balcony Staterooms.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Packed with activities in a relaxed and fun atmosphere, there really is something for everyone on board Carnival cruises. He might choose some professional golf, a swim or workout in the gym, while she goes for wine tasting, shopping or an indulgent spa treatment! Then lay by the pool or take time out in the Jacuzzi together. Carnival's elegant 'reservations only' supper clubs serve the finest cuisine to tempt your taste buds for a romantic quiet meal. And you'll have a chance to dress up on 2 nights during 7-day cruises for the captain's cocktail party and the gala farewell dinner. On the other evenings, you can dress more casually for dinner. For a small supplement, why not opt for a Stateroom with a private balcony with your own space in the sun with romantic sea views and sunsets thrown in!

Costa Cruises

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast served in your cabin and then focus on spending the rest of the day together. Prepare to be pampered and enjoy ultimate relaxation. There are plenty of on-board activities to choose from, why not take up a dance class, and then enjoy a relaxing lunch in one of the many restaurants, followed by an afternoon coffee on the deck or a cocktail in the piano bar. Book a spa treatment together in an effort to wind down for the evening ahead. Then reserve an intimate table for two in the á la carte restaurant and finish the evening off on the dance floor, putting in practice what you learnt, and fall in love all over again.

Find out more about the available adult only ships

• Arcadia
• Artemis