Myth #4: Cruises are for old people

Myth Busted: Cruises Aren’t Just for Old People (Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Edition)

When a lot of people picture cruising, the stereotype pops up: retirees in deck chairs, shuffleboard, and early bird dinners. But the truth is, modern cruising attracts travelers of all ages — and the numbers prove it. Plus, with cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity designing ships and experiences tailored to younger adults, couples, and families, the “floating retirement home” image couldn’t be more off course.

What the Numbers Really Say

Don’t just take my word for it — let’s look at the stats:

• The average age of a cruiser is around 46–47 years old (according to CLIA).

• About 36% of cruisers worldwide are under 40 — that’s more than one in three passengers.

• In North America, over half of cruise travelers are under 40.

• And here’s a fun one: about 31% of cruisers in the last two years were brand-new to cruising — many of them Millennials and Gen Z hopping aboard for the first time.

So sure, you’ll see retirees on board. But they’re sharing the ship with families, honeymooners, groups of friends, and travelers who’d never call themselves “old.”

Why the Stereotype Stuck Around

Once upon a time, cruises were mostly long voyages, slower paced, and a little more formal — perfect for folks who had plenty of time on their hands. Add in decades of pop culture jokes about shuffleboard and bingo, and the stereotype stuck.

But cruising has evolved big-time, and nowhere is that more obvious than with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.

Royal Caribbean: Big Thrills, Big Ships, and Big Fun

If you’ve ever thought cruises sound “boring,” Royal Caribbean would like to have a word. These are the ships with rock-climbing walls, surf simulators, zip lines, ice-skating rinks, Broadway-level shows, and nightlife that keeps the fun going long after sunset.

And it’s not just what’s on the ship — Royal Caribbean is changing the game with its own private destinations.

• Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas) — Royal’s crown jewel private island. It’s got:

  • Thrill Waterpark - the tallest waterslide in North America.

  • Oasis Lagoon - the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean (with a swim-up bar, naturally).

  • Up, Up and Away - a helium balloon ride that takes you 450 feet into the sky.

  • Coco Beach Club - infinity pool with ocean views, upgraded food options, floating cabanas and more

  • Hideaway Beach - adults-only area with its own vibe — DJs, pools, and cocktails with an ocean view.

See what I mean? That’s not just shuffleboard.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. Royal Caribbean is rolling out even more “Perfect Day”-style destinations around the world:

• Royal Beach Club Paradise Island (The Bahamas) — opening December 2025, with swim-up bars and stunning beaches.

• Royal Beach Club Cozumel (Mexico) — opening 2026, with cabanas, snorkeling, pools, and local flavors.

• Perfect Day at Costa Maya (Mexico) — coming 2027, featuring one of the world’s longest lazy rivers and record-breaking slides.

• Lelepa, Vanuatu — also in 2027, a more nature-focused, sustainable South Pacific escape.

Royal isn’t just building ships — they’re building entire playgrounds on land and sea.

Celebrity Cruises: Sleek, Stylish, and Social

Celebrity takes a different approach: think boutique hotel at sea. Their Edge-class ships are full of airy spaces, rooftop gardens, chic lounges, and jaw-dropping dining rooms. The vibe is modern luxury without being stuffy.

Celebrity is a big hit with couples, foodies, and friend groups who want a cruise that feels stylish, social, and yes — totally Instagrammable. The dining is next-level, the cocktail bars are gorgeous, and the entertainment ranges from cutting-edge shows to rooftop movie nights.

And here’s the kicker: Celebrity guests also get to experience Perfect Day at CocoCay, which means they can dip into all the thrills, pools, and adults-only beaches right alongside Royal guests.

Cruises for All Ages

Take a step back, and the myth crumbles. Modern cruises — especially with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity — are designed to offer something for everyone:

• Adventure seekers: zip lines, surf simulators, waterslides, and nightlife.

• Food and wine lovers: craft cocktails, rooftop gardens, and world-class dining.

• Families and multi-gen groups: kids’ clubs, teen lounges, family-friendly shows, and beach days that everyone enjoys together.

• Couples and friends: private cabanas, spas, poolside bars, and stylish lounges.

And with more shorter cruises and weekend sailings, you don’t need weeks of vacation time to make it happen.

Final Word

The idea that cruises are “just for old people” has officially sunk. With the average cruiser in their 40s, more than a third under 40, and cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity building ships and destinations full of thrills, style, and choice, there’s never been a better time to cruise no matter your age.

So the real question isn’t “Am I too young for a cruise?” It’s “Which ship do I want to board first?”