Cruise passengers below the age of 21 are no longer eligible to travel alone on US departures with two major cruise lines, according to terms and conditions updates that could cause significant disruption to holidaymakers. Carnival and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines introduced the new rules effective from 1 February 2025.
The new 21-and-up minimum age threshold for lone cruisers is stricter than previous rules that prevented under-18s from booking. It means that passengers who are deemed “minors” for some purposes in the US must be escorted by someone over the age of 25. The chaperone can be a relative or “guardian” but is not required to be a “legal guardian”. Bookings for under-21s made without an accompanying adult guest will no longer be accepted.
“Guests are required to be 21 years of age [on embarkation day] to travel on their own. Guest ages will be verified at embarkation. Guests not conforming to this policy will result in denied boarding and no compensation will be provided at embarkation,” Carnival’s policy reads. “Guests 20 years of age and younger must travel with a relative or guardian 25 years of age or older.”
Inappropriate marketing?
The news, emerging just before the US spring break season, may come as a potential shock to customers who have been drawn to the idea of taking a cruise by “party destination” advertising that seems targeted at a younger audience. Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at Coco Cay, a private island destination in the Bahamas, is one such example, with marketing videos that do not appear to feature anyone over the age of 21 and promotional descriptions whose language is peppered with youth speak.
“Cranked up thrills. Next-level chill. Endless possibilities. Perfect Day at CocoCay, the award-winning Royal Caribbean® private destination, is loaded with ways to take your vacay to the absolute max,” the firm’s website reads.
Age restrictions and exceptions
Company policy changes preventing under-21s from booking cruises or purchasing other services highlight a broader debate over what young people are permitted to do in the US and elsewhere.
Marriage is legal from the age of 18 in the US. Joining the military and potentially giving one’s life for one’s country is allowed from the age of 17. Yet, according to the US minimum legal drinking age law, which can seem draconian to many other world citizens, under-21-year-olds are not permitted to buy alcohol. And now they may not go on a Royal Caribbean or Carnival cruise unaccompanied.
There are however some exceptions to the cruise line small print. Married couples who are both under the age of 21 will be allowed to book cruises with both firms, if they can produce a valid marriage certificate. Signed-up and active members of the military between the ages of 18 and 21 will also be allowed to sail.
For any other younger guests who have already booked on Carnival or Royal Caribbean cruises, the advice from travel and tourism operators is to contact the relevant cruise line without delay to discuss the situation.
