The Best Honeymoon Cruises: How Much Do They Cost & Which One to Choose
From luxury to affordable, these honeymoon cruises offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for couples. Trust us, you don't want to miss out on these...
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If you and your partner want a first-married holiday to remember, we highly recommend booking a honeymoon cruise. Cruises have had a serious glow-up in recent years and luxury and non-luxury cruise operators are now offering honeymoon holidays that provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences perfect for newlyweds to celebrate their nuptials.
Who wouldn't want to visit several of the best honeymoon destinations in the world, all in one trip? Anyone wondering if a cruise is good for a honeymoon will soon be rushing to book one after seeing some of the amazing cruise packages and holidays below.
Imagine merging a honeymoon in Bora Bora with all the surrounding islands or embarking on an incredible honeymoon experience whilst island hopping on your Caribbean honeymoon.
Honeymoon Cruises: Everything You Need to Know About Going on a Cruise Honeymoon
Some of the world's most romantic honeymoon experiences can be found cruising and the variety is so impressive. Whether you're into action and adventure, nature and wildlife, beaches and cocktails or tranquil relaxation, there is a honeymoon cruise out there for you.
What's more, we've enlisted the expert advice from some of the world's most prestigious and well-known cruise operators who have some top tips for honeymooners looking to book a cruise.
Ready to set sail and find your perfect cruise honeymoon?
Locations: Bridgetown, Roseau, Kralendijk, Willemstad, Saint Pierre and Kingstown.
The UNESCO Treasures cruise is a luxury cruise perfect for honeymooning couples. The nine-night cruise includes a welcome bottle of champagne, nine incredible and diverse culinary experiences, unlimited drinks, spa access and more.
Not only will you have a five-star experience on board, but you'll also get to visit a wealth of destinations across the Caribbean including the capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, where your honeymoon cruise will start and finish.
The onboard accommodation includes rooms with terraces and endless ocean views, as well as a range of penthouses including the deluxe, premier and grand rooms which are the epitome of luxury. And that's not all - there are also a few residence rooms for a truly 'home away from home' feel. These rooms come complete with multiple living spaces, private decks, dining rooms and your very own butler!
Locations: Singapore, Port Klang, Malaysia; Penang, Thailand; Phuket, Langkawi, Malaysia; Malacca, Singapore; Laem Chabang and Phu My, Vietnam.
Couples who are looking for an exciting honeymoon cruise that takes them to some of the world's most unique and breath-taking locations will love the Fascinating Far East cruise operated by Marella Cruises and TUI. The cruise lasts two weeks and takes you from Singapore's main port, to a number of incredible islands and destinations across Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and more.
The cruise has a perfect balance when it comes to the itinerary. It includes plenty of time to explore each of the incredible locations, as well as a number of days in-between stops where you are at sea, enjoying the gorgeous views this part of the world has to offer.
On board Marella Discovery 2, you will find top-notch facilities including seven bars, seven restaurants, two pools, a spa and plenty of entertainment including Broadway-style performances, a cinema, mini golf course and even rock climbing walls.
Chris Hackney, Managing Director at Marella Cruises explains some of the additional perks: “On all Marella Cruises, everything from meals and snacks to flights, transfers and tips is all included as standard in the price of the holiday. Plus, guests can upgrade to Premium All Inclusive for even more choice including speciality coffees, premium cocktails and more."
Locations: Fort Lauderdale, St Maarten; Philipsburg, Charlotte Amalie and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Below Deck fans will be more than familiar with the much-talked-about port of Fort Lauderdale, which just so happens to be the kick-off spot for the Puerto Plata, St Thomas and St Maarten trip operated by ROL Cruises. For the ultimate beach experience, board the Celebrity Beyond cruise ship and enjoy the five-star treatment.
The facilities on board include two-storey martini glass hot tubs, private cabanas, a 24-hour stateroom attendant, an indoor Solarium, immersive entertainment which includes acrobats and hypnotic music acts, a range of state-of-the-art rooms, some with gorgeous ocean views.
Visit some of the Caribbean's most gorgeous locations including Charlotte Amalie, St Maarten, Puerto Plata and more on this week-long honeymoon cruise.
Locations: Papeete, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva Island, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Uturoa and Raiatea Island.
Honeymoons in Bora Bora and other locations in French Polynesia are beyond luxurious - but cruising around all that these archipelagos have to offer takes luxurious honeymooning to a whole other level. This ten-night honeymoon includes visits to some of the world's most beautiful islands including Papeete, Rangiroa and more, as well as a few days simply sailing across the beautiful South Pacific.
This trip takes place on the Regatta cruise ship which is the flagship for the Oceania Cruises fleet, and it's clear to see why. The ship comes with more than 400 members of staff to help serve the maximum of 656 guests - giving you an idea of just how brilliant the service is.
Food on-board is vast, with options including informal breakfasts overlooking the water, to fine-dining in a beautifully-decorated restaurant. The cruise entertainment is just as varied, too, with an on-board casino, a wealth of bars and lounges, three shopping boutiques, a number of entertaining shows and even a library.
Locations: Botswana; Chobe National Park, Zambia; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe; Hwange National Park, Pretoria, South Africa; Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mozambique; Maputo, South Africa; Richard's Bay, Durban and Mossel Bay.
Perhaps one of the most unique honeymoon cruises on the list is the five-star South African Adventure Safari. Now, safari honeymoons already make for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but when you elevate it to a land, rail and sea trip, it very much takes the honeymoon to the next level.
The adventurous trip lasts a staggering 27 nights, giving you (almost!) an entire month of honeymooning to enjoy. The holiday begins with a 13 night land tour consisting of both road and rail trips across some of the most renowned safari locations in all of South Africa, before you board the five-star Azamara Pursuit cruise ship for an all-inclusive voyage lasting almost two weeks.
The cruise aspect of the honeymoon includes visits to numerous locations in Mozambique and South Africa, aboard one of the most impressive cruise ships in existence. If you're looking for a unique honeymoon which will really scratch that itch of adventure, nature and wildlife all in one, this is definitely the trip for you.
Locations: Hungary; Budapest, Kalocsa, Serbia; Belgrade, The Iron Gates, Romania; Giurgiu, Tulcea, Braila, Constanta, Bulgaria; Ruse, Vidin, Serbia; Donji Milanovac, Novi Sad and Osijek, Croatia.
If you're after a cruise that's a little closer to home, you'll love the Danube Delta Discovery cruise operated by TUI. Couples who have the travel bug will love this impressive European tour which sees guests visit 13 locations across five different countries.
On board the ship are two fabulous restaurants, sunbathing and lounging spots, and a full board package for all guests including in the price. As well as the excellent on-board facilities, you can enjoy European cultural activities from soaking in the Budapest spas to indulging your taste buds in the Paprika capital of the world.
This is also an excellent option for novice cruisers or couples who are a little apprehensive about sailing through completely open waters as it gives that luxurious cruise feel on one of Europe's largest rivers as opposed to an ocean-sailing ship.
Locations: Mahe, Cousin Island, Remire, Curieuse Island, Aride Island, Grande Soeur, Praslin Island and La Digue.
Seychelles honeymoon holidays are the epitome of luxury, and the Essential Seychelles cruise operated by Panache Cruises is no exception. For eight glorious nights, you and your partner can enjoy a honeymoon aboard Le Champlain, a cruise ship with eco-design at the heart of its manufacturing.
And it's not just the environmental footprint that is impressive on this ship. From the panoramic lounge and the sublime pool, to the state-of-the-art theatre and point eye viewing bar, no detail has been overlooked in this luxurious vessel.
And as for the cruise itself, what could be more romantic than just over a week sailing around the Seychelles archipelagos, exploring every corner from Cousin Island and Grande Soeur, to Mahe and La Digue.
Locations: Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Rangiroa, Nuku Hiva, Hawaii; Hilo, Kailua Kona, Kahului, Nawiliwili and Honolulu.
Explore some of the world's most scenic beaches and oceans on the Highlights of Hawaii & French Polynesia cruise which takes you from the stunning Tahitian islands of Papeete and Bora Bora all the way to the luxurious honeymoon spot of Hawaii in the USA.
The cruise lasts a whopping 18 nights, meaning you can fully switch off from the wedding planning stress and eliminate any post-wedding blues with an incredible first holiday as a married couple. Like many honeymoon cruise packages, flights are included and there are a number of additional extras on offer such as a generous on-board spend and speciality dining every night.
You can choose from the selection of dreamy bedrooms on board, from inside and outside rooms to balcony accommodation and gorgeous suites - there's so many options on offer on board the Regatta, the flagship vessel for Oceania Cruises.
Locations: Bridgetown, Barbados, St John's, Antigua; Philipsburg, St Maarten; Road Town, Basseterre, St Kitts and Pointe-A-Pitre, Guadeloupe.
Another one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world is, of course, Barbados and the surrounding islands. The Cocktails and Coconuts cruise operated by Marella ships and TUI offers a week-long honeymoon cruise that takes you to a number of swoon-worthy destinations across Barbados, Antigua, Guadeloupe and more.
With guaranteed good weather, you can enjoy activities like coastal hikes, snorkelling, sailing and more - and did we mention that day three of the cruise takes you on a catamaran cruise and lobster lunch - if that doesn't scream honeymoon, we're not sure what does.
Unlike some of the longer trips, this week-long cruise gives couples the chance to enjoy a multi-destination honeymoon that can be continued on land with locations such as the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cuba and other South American countries nearby to explore, as well as Florida which sits just above the Caribbean Sea.
Managing Director Chris Hackney explains the options further: “Marella Cruises are a great honeymoon option for newlyweds as it offers a wonderful way to see the world, with the opportunity to visit multiple ports and even countries in just one trip.
"What’s more, guests have the option to combine their cruise with a week’s stay in the destination, either at the start or the end of their itinerary. And, best of all, there’s no need to pack and repack bags when heading to a new destination, or waste any time on planes, meaning a stress-free holiday."
Cruises are perfect for honeymooners who want to explore several destinations without the hassle of planning more than one trip, or organising dozens of transfers.
The team at ROL Cruise explain: "There’s something inherently romantic about cruising, from the uninterrupted, panoramic sunset views to dressing up to enjoy an indulgent, fine dining experience. As you head out onto your balcony overlooking the glistening sea, you can relish in the company of your loved one whilst visiting new destinations and making memories to last a lifetime."
“Depending on your itinerary, you can see multiple ports or even countries in one sailing! While on board, you can both enjoy each other’s company in ultra-luxury, while enjoying delicious food, incredible drinks and an unforgettable on-board atmosphere and attentive service. The possibilities are endless.”
James Cole, Managing Director at luxury cruise specialists Panache Cruises adds “Cruises were made for honeymoons! Some people even get married at sea or at their port of departure (although this option can take significant planning). Cruises are becoming increasingly popular with honeymooners though for a wide variety of reasons.
"Couples like the fact that they can visit multiple countries or destinations in one trip without having to pack and unpack multiple times. Once you are on-board, everything is taken care of and you can just sit back and relax. After a day exploring a new destination take afternoon-tea on your own private veranda or indulge in a spa treatment or sauna infusion in the on-board spa.
"Imagine dining at a different fine dining restaurants of Michelin Star standard every night; all included in your standard luxury cruise fare. You can simply choose which restaurant you want to try and make a reservation at no extra cost.
"After dinner you can enjoy West End style entertainment or enjoy a romantic drink at one of the ship’s cocktail bars. All drinks on-board are usually included too from speciality coffees to cocktails and fine wines. The same is usually true for shore excursions which are often included in the price of a standard fare.
What Cruises Are Good for a Honeymoon?
Unsplash / Jairph
When it comes to choosing which honeymoon cruise to book, the options are endless - which can of course be a little overwhelming. We'd recommend thinking about the type of destinations you want to visit and starting there. Are you after adventure and lots of land excursions, or would you prefer sailing the seas and sunbathing most of the time?
James from Panache Cruises explains the benefits of high-end cruising for newlyweds, "Luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines have an incredible reputation for service as standard but they always pull out all the stops for people who get engaged on-board or who board the ship as newlyweds. Luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines also offer many added extras which make a honeymoon incredibly special.
"Cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas have the most comprehensive programme of ‘inclusive’ shore excursions but other lines like Oceania Cruises, Silversea, Seabourn and Azamara all offer their own range of free tours when in port. They have a wide selection of specially crafted day trips for young couples from romantic catamaran cruises to horse riding adventures through unspoilt landscapes.
"Alternatively, spend your days ashore lounging in a private beach club or walking the cobbled streets of a small Tuscan village. The cost of shore excursions can quickly mount up if they are not included in the fare (as with mid-tier cruise lines) so make sure you include these costs when planning your honeymoon."
What Are the Different Types of Honeymoon Cruises?
Cruises, like any other type of honeymoon holiday, can't be bunched into one category. There are dozens of different types of beach honeymoons, hundreds of varying adventure holidays and so many different minimoon hotels and destinations you can travel to - and cruise honeymoons are very much the same.
Panache Cruises' Managing Director explains, "Luxury cruises fall into four broad categories, namely: elite ocean, luxury river cruises, yacht style and expedition cruises. All are perfect for honeymooners but will offer very different experiences.
"Elite ocean cruises will be the best option for people who are looking to explore areas like the Caribbean or the Adriatic on larger ships with up 1,000 people. There are usually more dining options on ocean-sailing luxury ships which will generally offer Michelin standard speciality restaurants included in the fare. There are usually expansive spa areas and excellent evening entertainment options too.
"Luxury river cruises offer honeymooners a more sedate experience and an opportunity to visit some of the most romantic cities in the world including Vienna, Lisbon, Bruges, Avignon and of course Paris. Luxury river cruise vessels are much smaller and will typically accommodate around 150 people.
"Expedition cruises offer more adventurous newlyweds the opportunity to visit ‘once in a lifetime’ destinations before the onset of family life. Explore hard to reach destinations such as the Antarctic, the Galapagos Islands, Spitsbergen or the Patagonia region of South America. Due to the remote nature of many of these destinations, these are usually more expensive.
"At the other end of the spectrum, a lot of people opt for super yacht style cruises around areas like the Balearic Islands staying on vessels like Emerald Azzurra in the most luxurious accommodation imaginable. Similarly priced to expedition cruises, a 10 night stay on Emerald Azzurra will cost upwards of £10,000 per couple.”
How Much Does a Honeymoon Cruise Cost?
Unsplash / Jordan Mcgee
The price of a cruise honeymoon will depend on a number of factors including length, destination, board and the level f luxury amongst many other things. Some shorter river cruises in Europe can start from between £600 - £1,000 per person for 3-5 days of sailing, whereas luxurious cruises that last several weeks or even a month can cost upwards of £10,000 per person.
We've enlisted some of the industry experts to shed a bit more light on how much a cruise costs and what you can expect at each level. Chris from Marella Cruises says, “The price of a Marella Cruises can vary depending on multiple factors; the chosen itinerary, the type of cabin and the time of year the booking is made.
"Newlyweds also have the option to add in additional ‘vow celebration’ packages that will add an extra special touch to their holiday including; dinner at the captain’s table, VIP seats at one of our onboard shows, flowers in their cabin, professional photographs and so much more.”
James Cole from Panache Cruises adds: "There are many different kinds of cruise ship categories and this can have a drastic impact on price. The very largest mid-tier ships can carry up to 7,000 passengers whereas luxury and ultra-luxury cruise ships typically carry between 200 and 1,000 passengers.
"The available space per passenger on a luxury cruise will be double that on a mainstream cruise and the passenger to crew ratios will be twice as high. A luxury cruise will therefore offer much higher levels of intimacy and more privacy, backed up with superb service. Whilst these aspects will affect the price of the overall cruise, the experience will be very different as a result.
“The costs can vary significantly depending on the cruise line and the duration of the trip. Prices can vary from £200 per night to £700 per night but it’s important to remember that these are ‘all inclusive’ prices and can include everything from speciality restaurants, all drinks, spa treatments, shore excursions and gratuities.
"A lot of honeymooners can overlook these additional cost elements when pricing up their trip. By comparison, many mid-tier cruise lines draw people in with attractive initial prices but these do not include all these extra elements, which are almost always chargeable as extras. The best advice is to always look very carefully at the ‘total price’ of your trip when comparing offers.
"The cost of a cruise with a true luxury cruise line always offers incredible value for money because everything is included. The cost of shore excursions alone on a standard cruise line might amount to £2,000 per couple on some seven night cruises for example. Another thing to note about luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines is that all ships are cashless so you can literally step on-board and not spend a penny.
"The all-inclusive nature of a true luxury cruise means that you can instantly switch off and relax in the knowledge that there are not going to be any nasty surprises at the end of your cruise. This is hugely reassuring when planning a honeymoon as couples will understandably want to make their budget go as far as possible."
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