I went on my first adults-only cruise. From a playground to a tattoo shop, these 8 things surprised me most.
Business Insider
Last updated: June 9, 2026
The author initially disliked cruising after a family-focused trip on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, finding it too child-centric and disruptive. Seeking a different experience, they tried Virgin Voyages, an adults-only luxury cruise line, hoping it would change their perception.
- The author's first cruise experience in 2022 on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas was dominated by child-oriented activities and amenities, such as waterslides, splash pads, a carousel, and an escape room. The presence of screaming children on the pool deck made relaxation difficult, leading the author to question the appeal of cruising.
- In contrast, a subsequent seven-night Mediterranean cruise in August 2023 on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady proved to be a significantly more positive experience. This sailing was on an adults-only, luxury ship, which the author believed would offer a more serene environment. The cruise sailed from Spain to Italy and France, providing a journey through peaceful luxury. The author stayed in a cabin with a balcony, and the starting rate for the voyage was $5,910, though they received a media rate. The ship offered numerous pleasant surprises that changed the author's opinion on cruising.
