Carnival and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines just updated their passenger policies with new age restrictions that could affect travel plans for young holidaymakers.
As of February 1, passengers under the age of 21 are no longer allowed to travel alone on excursions departing from the U.S.
Travelers younger than 21, the legal drinking age in the country, must be accompanied by a relative or a guardian. The guardian, however, does not have to be a legal guardian.
Any “underage” guest attempting to book a trip will not be assigned their own stateroom (cabin or suite) without a chaperone who’s over the age of 25.
“The age limit will be waived for children sailing with their parents or guardians in connecting staterooms; for underage married couples; and for active duty members of the United States or Canadian military,” Royal Caribbean’s website reads.
“Certain other restrictions and conditions will apply; such as compliance with the age twenty-one (21) alcohol policy, and proof of marriage for underage couples or proof of active duty military status required.”
“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 states. “Guests 20 years of age and younger MUST travel with a relative or guardian 25 years of age or older.”
Previously, Royal Caribbean allowed guests aged 18 and younger to book solo trips.
These new changes are likely to affect the number of young people onboard cruises in the future, especially with spring break right around the corner.
According to Cruise Critic, Royal Caribbean has been known to promote its “Perfect Day at Coco Cay,” an exclusive private island party, as well as a list of desirable destinations for students to sail to during their week off from school. However, under the new guidelines, the majority of undergraduate college students won’t be able to book trips on either Royal Caribbean or Carnival cruise lines for their spring break.
Happily, other options remain for teenagers hoping to travel the high seas.
You can read The Independent’s list of the six best cruises for young people here.
