Virgin Voyages Bet Big on the ‘No Children Allowed’ Cruise Policy — And It’s Paid Off

Virgin Voyages, run by the same company that runs Virgin America and Virgin Atlantic airlines, has implemented a unique policy for cruises. The company, owned by billionaire Sir Richard Branson, has implemented a “no children allowed” policy on many of its trips. And, believe it or not, the policy has paid off big for the cruise line.

Why Virgin Voyages Has a No Children Allowed Policy

According to Travel & Tour World, bookings on Virgin Voyages increased by 34% internationally, with revenue rising by 45% globally and 30% in the United Kingdom, driven by demand for tranquil, child-free sea vacations. The adult-oriented cruise line has piqued the interest of a generation seeking customized experiences, better service, and a more relaxed ambiance.

Since its introduction in 2021, Virgin Voyages has grown its fleet with elegant, mid-sized ships meant to provide a new perspective on sea vacations. A fourth vessel is set to begin operations later this year, with a maiden voyage departing from New York. These ships are creating a new market and threatening the industry’s long-standing family-centric model.

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With an average guest age of 43 to 47, Virgin Voyages caters to a younger clientele than the industry norm. The distinct ambiance can be seen throughout the ships, from vivid party nights like Scarlet Night, which turns the ship into a sea of red, to secret speakeasies concealed beneath the deck.

Even the entertainment selection defies expectations by combining interactive shows, wellness experiences, and immersive themed events. Guests are encouraged to actively participate in the spirit of each voyage, with communal eating and impromptu activities supporting the brand’s carefree philosophy.

With ambitious new routes on the horizon and ongoing expansion on deck, this cruise line is not just participating in the business; it is redefining it. Offering a polished yet entertaining sea vacation, the brand is gaining traction by emphasizing what modern tourists love most: authenticity, innovation, and peace.

Other Adults-Only Elements on Cruises

While Virgin Voyages is the only cruise line that exclusively offers adults-only cruises, it is not the only cruise line with adults-only elements. Recently, when Norwegian Cruise Line unveiled the Aqua, it also unveiled some adults-only elements available on the line.

During the unveiling, Norwegian Cruise Line discussed the ship’s new innovations, including the company’s “most expansive” Ocean Boulevard, an expanded adults-only Vibe Beach Club, a three-story hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, a Glow Court sports complex with an interactive LED floor, improved lodging, and the brand’s first three-bedroom Duplex Haven Suites. In addition, the ship includes various new dining options.

The Aqua was officially unveiled on April 13, with “Modern Family” actor Eric Stonestreet serving as the ship’s godfather. The 3,571-guest Norwegian Aqua, built by Fincantieri at its Marghera, Italy, yard, is NCL’s first Prima Plus-class ship. It includes several experiences that were initially introduced on Prima-class ships.

“As a new cruiser who has a deep passion for travel, it is absolutely spectacular to see the amazing features and experiences that travellers and their families can enjoy aboard Norwegian Aqua, including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster!” Stonestreet said. “The team at Norwegian Cruise Line, onboard and ashore, are the very best of the best, and I am honored to serve as the godfather of the beautiful Norwegian Aqua.”

However, as NCL adds a new ship to its list, it also removes one from the fleet.

Late last month, it was revealed that the Seven Seas Navigator would be decommissioned following its final journey in late 2026. This is the first ship retirement since the Paul Gauguin, a Tahiti-based ship, was decommissioned in 2010.

Norwegian Cruise Line withdrew the Norwegian Majesty before transferring the Gaugin to Louis Cruises in 2009.