The Best Honeymoon Cruises to Book Now

If there’s one thing we’ve learned writing about travel over the years, it’s that honeymoon cruises are one of the easiest trips to plan. Not only can you get a ready-made itinerary across multiple cities and countries in one trip, but you only have to unpack once! That’s a win-win if you ask us.

Whether you’re looking to sail the Caribbean, Mediterranean or even Alaska, the options for honeymoon cruises are truly endless. We gathered our team of travel experts to share their advice on why cruising is a great choice for your honeymoon, as well as their tips to help you plan the perfect trip.

Why You Should Consider Honeymoon Cruises

While honeymoon cruises are convenient, they also come with their perks.

“Most cruise lines offer special honeymoon packages that include things like champagne, private dinners and couple’s massages, as well as offer on-ship amenities such as a casino, gym and spa,” says Matt James, travel expert with Visitingly. “Not only will you get to enjoy all the luxury and amenities of a cruise ship, but you’ll also get to explore some of the most amazing places on Earth.”

Honeymoon cruises will also allow you to visit more than one destination while only having to pack for a single trip. “With a honeymoon cruise, you can visit a few destinations within just a few days’ time since you’re sailing overnight. Plus, you’re able to enjoy the ship’s amenities when you’re not in port so you don’t feel like you’re losing travel time at the airport,” says Siera Duiser, Independent Travel Agent with Destinations to Explore. “You can treat yourself to a couples massage in the spa, gamble in the casino, catch a show, take a swim and so much more.”

There are also several cruises that do not require a passport. While it’s always recommended that you get a passport before traveling abroad, there is a loop hole with what’s called “closed-loop” cruises. These are cruises that begin and end at a U.S. Port. While it’s not possible for all destinations, there are closed-loop cruises that travel to destinations like Bermuda and Mexico that will not require you to bring a passport onboard.

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The Best Honeymoon Cruises for 2023

If you and your partner are the kind of couple who love spending time together and exploring new sights (without the pressure of creating your own schedule and transferring from airport to airport) a honeymoon cruise might be right for you. Below, we’re sharing some of the top honeymoon cruises to book if you’re planning on taking your honeymoon in 2023 and beyond. 

Danube River

If you’re seeking a scenic river cruise that takes you through the enchanted countries of Hungary, and Austria (which actually used to be one country just over 100 years ago), you can’t go wrong with a cruise along the Danube. AMA Waterways offers a 7-day cruise along the Danube River that travels from Vilshofen to Budapest. “River cruises are great because they acquire local ingredients daily at port to use for meals in the evening,” says Katherina Khoury, Personal Travel Designer with Travel Edge.

Some of the highlights of this cruise include a hike into the hills to visit Veste Oberhaus, a 13th century fortress that has since turned into a museum and open-air theater. There is also a full-day excursion through one of Austria’s most famous and populated cities, Salzburg. Also, don’t miss the morning walking tour through the city of Linz, where you will visit the Mozart House and a stop by the charming mountainside town of Český Krumlov, which is part of the Czech Republic. 

Greek Isles and Mediterranean

The Greek Isles and the Mediterranean are wonderful itineraries that can vary to include Montenegro, Croatia or focus on just Greece, notes Khoury. “These itineraries can be so romantic due to the constant beauty this region provides,” she says. Khoury highly recommends enjoying a balcony room to enjoy the views and sunsets in private. The history in this region can be felt in its architecture that dates back to over 2500 years ago, she says, where you’ll be able to visit the same monuments that still stand today. Princess Cruise Line offers several Mediterranean cruises to choose from, including departures from Barcelona, Rome, Athens and beyond. 

Southeast Galápagos

If you enjoy snorkeling and exotic landscapes, you might want to add this destination to the top of your list. Choose between an expedition cruise, luxury cruise or multi-sport cruise, and see wildlife endemic to the area that you won’t see anywhere else. Once you book your cruise, consider extending your trip on mainland Ecuador before or after flying to the Galapagos. Here, Khoury notes that you can visit the jungle and learn about coffee, chocolate as well as immerse yourself in even more wildlife. While there are endless options for honeymoon cruises taking off around the Galápagos, the Southeast Galápagos Cruise is popular among honeymooners. It’s 6 days and includes highlights such as snorkeling at Devil’s Crown, visiting Gardner Bay, playing with sea lions in South Plaza and visiting Giant tortoises on Santa Cruz. 

Hawaiian Islands

Perhaps the most popular honeymoon destination for Americans looking to venture outside of the continental U.S., Hawaii continues to draw crowds of newlyweds. While you can certainly honeymoon in Hawaii without spending the majority of your time on a ship, why would you when it gives you the opportunity to visit as many islands as you want?

“Honeymoon cruises have wonderful perks because they allow you to easily visit all the islands without having to move your belongings around,” says Khoury. “You can experience the islands your way, by doing the activities you love at port, enjoying the nightlife and live music and still experiencing water excursions, nature tours, hiking, visiting National Parks and, of course, checking out renowned beaches.” The Hawaiian Seascapes Cruise is 8 days long and takes you to four islands—Lana’i, Maui, Hawaii before ending at Kona Harbor, Hawaii (Big Island). 

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Caribbean Cruise

For honeymooners who envision endless crystal-blue waters, loads of sunshine and tropical beach visits as part of their post-wedding trip, the Caribbean is an easy choice. Since it’s a chain of islands, it’s the perfect destination to visit by ship, as it allows you to explore multiple destinations and partake in fun excursions including snorkeling, sailing and even windsurfing. One popular Caribbean cruise among honeymooners is the 7-Day Caribbean Islands cruise from Seabourn, which departs from Bridgetown Barbados and takes you to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Johns and Antigua, and drops you off in St. Maarten. Every day is a new and exciting destination, so you’re sure to never get bored. 

Alaska

“This cruise is perfect for couples who love the outdoors and want to experience the natural beauty of Alaska,” notes James. “The cruise includes stops at various ports, where you can explore the glaciers, mountains, and forests. You can also take part in activities such as dog sledding and whale watching.” Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers all-inclusive luxury options, with durations ranging from 7 to 14 nights. Some fun highlights include staying in the Denali-area, visiting Fairbanks or Anchorage, and more. 

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