Major cruise line announces switch to adults-only voyages

Oceania Cruises will accept bookings only for guests aged 18 and over for reservations made on or after January 7, while existing bookings for children made before that date will be honoured. The company says the change follows research into guest preferences and aims to enhance the onboard ambience.

Oceania Cruises, a US-based luxury operator, will now offer voyages only to adults. The change took effect for bookings made on or after January 7, and reservations for children made before that date will be honoured. The company says the decision followed extensive research into guest preferences and is intended to elevate the onboard ambience. Oceania described its typical clientele as valuing a serene atmosphere, sophisticated service and an unhurried pace. Key details: - Adults-only bookings apply to reservations made on or after January 7. - Reservations including children made before January 7 will still be honoured. - Oceania cited research and customer feedback as the basis for the change, aiming to enhance onboard ambience. - Chief commercial officer Nathan Hickman said children make up a very small share of guests and that the average age aboard is in the mid-60s. - The company has announced a 129-day "Kangaroo Route" from Sydney to London, departing February 26, 2027, which will visit four continents, 34 countries and 80 ports. - The reported starting price for that itinerary was £48,919 for a Veranda Stateroom and it includes unlimited beer, wine and spirits or shore excursion credit as an alternative. Summary: Oceania's policy change will make its sailings adults-only and is described as intended to shape a quieter, more serene onboard experience. Undetermined at this time.