Amanda PhillipsCruising is a great option no matter what kind of holiday you are after. From family-holidays, to trips away with friends, solo adventures and romantic getaways, cruising can fit any travel need. Cruise holidays are also a great option for honeymoons (or even destination weddings). If you have your eyes set on a honeymoon on board a cruise ship, here are 10 things to remember to ensure it is the perfect romantic getaway for your first holiday as a married couple.
1. Select a stunning itinerary
Cruise ships sail to literally everywhere in the world – so the possibilities for a romantic honeymoon are endless. You and your love can keep to the honeymoon-esque destinations of the Caribbean or Indian Ocean. But if adventure brought you together, opt for cruises that take you through South America, Asia or even Alaska!
2. The ship
If you fancy an intimate, adults-only environment then cruise lines like SeaDream Yacht Club or Azamara Club Cruises will suit. However, for adventurous couples who prefer a lively atmosphere, there is Royal Caribbean or Carnival Cruises. Every couple is unique in their preference, and there is a ship out there for every loved-up honeymooner.
3. Splurge on a romantic suite
Don’t wake up on your honeymoon without a view of the stunning location you’re arriving in. Leave the inside cabin for another time and invest in a relaxing suite that you can both relax in and enjoy your first holiday together as a married couple.
4. Choose your dining selectively
They say that food is the way to the heart – and a cruise line offers plenty of romantic culinary experiences. However, on your honeymoon you might not want to dine among other passengers in the communal buffet. Get first in line to book your space at one of the speciality restaurants and re-create that first romantic dinner. Some cruise lines also offer couples-only private diners.
5. Book a romantic excursion
Arriving in a different place every day is what makes cruising one of the best ways to explore the world. Make the most of it by looking out for excursions with that special romantic touch.
6. Relax with a couples treatment
Your honeymoon is meant to be a time to relax. Good thing almost all cruise ships boast an onboard spa, where calming couples’ therapies are on the menu.
7. Reserve one of their private deck spaces
Mix up your surroundings and fall asleep under the stars or snuggle up in a rented cabana. Many cruise ships have secluded corners that can be booked out for a few hours, or even the night. For inspiration, Azamara have Nights in Private Places while Celebrity Cruises offer bookable cabanas on the famous lawn club.
8. Look out for special honeymoon packages
If you’re wary that a cruise honeymoon will result in a call from your bank manager, don’t worry. Several cruise lines offer special packages for honeymooners that have these exclusive extras already included.
9. Add your cruise honeymoon to your gift registry
Another way to make sure your honeymoon is indulgent but not bank-breaking is to add it to your gift registry. Some cruise lines (such as NCL and Princess Cruises) allow you to add extras (such as speciality dining and spa treatments) to your wedding gift registry. Admit it, this is more exciting than receiving a blender.
10. You can even make it official at sea
You don’t have to wait for your honeymoon to start your romantic voyage. Many couples choose to get married on board their favourite cruise ship – sometimes by the captain!