Carnival & Royal Caribbean Updated Their Age Rules—Here’s How It Could Affect Young Travellers

There’s important news for young travellers planning a cruise with Carnival or Royal Caribbean—both cruise giants have updated their age policies, particularly affecting cruises departing from the United States.

Carnival and Royal Caribbean, two of the world’s leading cruise lines that frequently set sail from major hubs like Miami, have clarified their age-related rules for passengers under 21. If you’re under 21 and dreaming of cruising, you’ll now need to plan carefully to ensure you’re not turned away at the port.

What Are the New Age Rules?

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean now require passengers under 21 to be accompanied by someone who is at least 25 years old. The accompanying traveller does not have to be a legal guardian, but they must be a relative or someone acting as a guardian figure. If you’re under 21 and travelling alone—or even with friends your age—you’ll unfortunately not be allowed to board.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes, there are some exceptions. Young couples under 21 who are legally married do not need a 25+ companion; they just need to provide their marriage certificate as proof. Both cruise lines also grant exceptions for active military personnel under 21, allowing them to cruise independently.

Statements from the Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Line clearly states:

“Guests must be at least 21 years old on embarkation day to travel independently. Guests aged 20 or younger must have a companion who is 25 or older and is either a relative or guardian. Failure to meet these conditions means boarding will be denied without compensation.”

Royal Caribbean similarly specifies:

“For sailings departing from North America, the minimum age to cruise unaccompanied is 21.”

However, this rule isn’t universal—cruises departing from regions outside North America, such as the UK, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, permit guests aged 18 or older to travel unaccompanied.

Policies of Other Major Cruise Lines

Disney Cruise Line allows passengers aged 18 or older to cruise independently. Minors under 18 must travel with someone who is at least 21 years old.

Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line, similar to Carnival and Royal Caribbean, requires guests to be 21 or older to cruise alone, with an exception allowing married couples under 21 to share a stateroom, provided they present proof of marriage.

Already Booked Your Cruise?

If these updated rules affect your current booking, it’s crucial to contact your travel agent or reach out directly to your chosen cruise line to discuss alternative arrangements immediately.

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