Are you looking for the best party cruises? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
As a guy in my 20s who’s spent plenty of time cruising and enjoying the party scene at sea, I know firsthand which cruises are the best for a good time.
Whether you’re a solo traveler eager to meet new people, a group of friends on a bachelor or bachelorette trip, or simply someone who loves a great party vibe, booking the right cruise is essential for having a great time.
From quick weekend getaways to week-long parties at sea, I’ve put together the ultimate guide to the best party cruises and cruise lines.
With that said, here are the 15 best party cruises right now.
15 Best Party Cruises
1. Oasis of the Seas
Royal Caribbean is known for making some of the most extravagant cruise ships in the world. Recently, I sailed on the Oasis of the Seas and the party never stopped.
Whether at Spotlight Karaoke, The Rising Tide Bar, The Pig & Whistle English Pub, or Blaze Night Club, there was always something going on. Sailing on a cruise ship with so many entertainment venues is one of the best things about the Oasis of the Seas because the fun never stops.
If you like live music and dancing, the Music Hall is the place for you. This bar and club has live performances and a dance floor.
During the day, the pool deck has many bars, hot tubs, pools, and water slides. Hanging out by the pool is a great way to meet new people and have a day to drink under the sun.
Another cool thing about the Oasis of the Seas is the amazing Boardwalk neighborhood, with Johnny Rockets and Playmakers sports bar. If you’re into sports, you’ll have the best time watching a sports game at Playmakers.
The thing that makes Oasis of the Seas so unique from other cruise ships is the amount of activities going on at night. Many people compare Oasis-Class cruise ships to Vegas because the party never stops.
Whether you want to dance at the night club or watch a big game at Playmakers sports bar, there is something for everyone.
Tip: Cruising during winter break, spring break and summer vacation are the best ways to ensure that you will be on a fun party cruise.
2. Norwegian Joy
Norwegian Cruise Line tends to cater towards a younger crowd, so if you’re a young adult, you’ll love cruising with Norwegian. Norwegian is one of the best cruise lines for drinking, partying and having fun.
The Norwegian Joy is a newer cruise ship which began sailing in North America in 2019. This cruise ship has plenty of activities onboard including a virtual reality room, water slides and Go-Karting.
Onboard the Norwegian Joy, there is an adult only area called Spice H20 on deck 17, which is inspired by Ibiza. During the day it’s an area to grab a drink and relax. However, in the evening it becomes a completely different atmosphere.
When you visit Spice H20 at night, you’ll get to party and dance under the stars. Throughout the cruise, several themed parties will be from 80s night to Spanish night and the Glow Party.
Furthermore, the casino, nightclub venue, and bars are active throughout the evenings. Once you’re done partying, you can head to The Local for a late-night snack!
If you party all night, the best way to recover is to visit the spa. The Thermal Spa onboard NCL Joy is one of the best and biggest at sea. The saunas, steam rooms, and lounge chairs are perfect for relaxing and recharging for a new night of partying.
Tip: On most cruise lines passengers have to be 21 to drink. Onboard Norwegian, passengers who are 18 years old can consumer beer or wine in international waters with the permission of a parent.
Related: Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages: What’s Included and is it Worth it?
3. Carnival Mardi Gras
Carnival Cruise Line is known for having fun ships, and fun passengers who like to have a good time. On the Carnival Mardi Gras, there are plenty of activities for young people and the young at heart, such as a water park, a 600 foot ropes course and the Bolt Roller Coaster!
Since the Carnival Mardi Gras has nearly 20 different bars onboard, a fun thing for passenger to do is bar crawling. Experiencing the different bars onboard is so much fun and a great way to try the various beverages that Carnival has to offer.
One of the reasons why Carnival cruise ships are so good for partying is because of the amount of guests. For instance, the Carnival Mardi Gras has 6,500 people, so you’ll always meet cruise passengers looking to party.
Whether you’re cruising with family and friends or solo, you will have a blast onboard Carnival Mardi Gras!
If you’re looking for a fun party cruise at an affordable price, check out the Carnival Mardi Gras!
Tip: Short Bahamas cruises (3-4 days) usually attract those that want to party more than any other. Plan a long weekend cruise for a fun friends getaway.
Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
4. Virgin Scarlet Lady
Virgin Voyages is an adult-only cruise line that’s doing things differently. The target market for Virgin Voyages is a younger demographic. However, active and open-minded cruisers of all ages will feel at home.
One thing that makes Virgin Voyages unique from other cruise lines is their Studio Cabins. These cabins are designed for one cruise passenger, making them a great choice for solo cruisers.
The Virgin Scarlet Lady has a cool, fun party vibe. This cruise ship has a tattoo parlor onboard and the “Scarlet Night Party,” known as the best and most wild party at sea.
Cruise passengers, also known as “sailors,” as Virgin Voyages calls them, are told to wear red for the Scarlet Night.
The night begins in the main atrium, and as the evening progresses, the party moves around various parts of the cruise ship, eventually ending on the lido deck.
The party can get pretty wild, with a live DJ, club-style lighting, and dancers performing on the lido deck. Towards the end of the night, most people start jumping in the pool, creating a chaotic and fun party at sea.
Throughout the cruise, The Manor is the nightclub where everyone goes to party. This nightclub is two stories tall and has a large bar area, a dance floor, and an elevated DJ booth.
Compared to other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages has the best nightclub. The design is amazing, and the attention to detail is impressive. For instance, they have a hall of mirrors as you enter the club, which is a great spot to take photos.
Since Virgin is an adult-only cruise line, there will be no kids. This means that the entertainment onboard is catered towards adults instead of family-friendly.
Check out the Virgin Scarlet Lady if you want to party and have the ultimate adult-only experience.
5. MSC Meraviglia
The MSC Meraviglia came in 2017. This cruise ship is known for its beautiful two-story Infinity atrium, glittering Swarovski staircase, and resort-style pool deck. Luckily, MSC tends to be a more affordable cruise line, which attracts many young adults.
Here are some things to expect on this cruise if you like to party:
The TV and Studio bar is where you can do karaoke, watch live shows, and grab a drink. As it gets later, check out the Meraviglia bar and lounge. This is the nightclub area where passengers drink, dance, and party late into the night.
Having sailed on MSC, I know first-hand that the passengers enjoy drinking a lot and partying late. If you’re on a Caribbean sailing, expect an active party scene, which is really fun.
Overall, the MSC Meraviglia is a fun and beautiful cruise. The great thing about cruising with MSC is that they tend to be very affordable vacation.
If you’re looking for the best value party cruise, sailing with MSC is a good idea. They have great food, drinks, and a clientele that likes to party.
Tip: Caribbean and Mexico cruises are fun party cruises as the party continues on the beaches and affordable excursions.
6. Wonder of the Seas
The Wonder of the Seas is one of the newest ship from Royal Caribbean cruise line, and one of the largest cruise ships in the world!
This cruise ship is very similar to the Oasis of the Seas, which is, in my opinion, the ultimate party cruise. Of course, the Wonder of the Seas is new, and there are even more great things to do!
Cruising on the Wonder of the Seas is a great way to travel and have fun. There is plenty of entertainment, including an Aqua Show.
Whether during the day or evening, the party never stops on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas.
Furthermore, Wonder of the Seas stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day, at Cococay. Cruise passengers can keep the party going when they get off the cruise ship because their drink package works on the private island!
Recently, Royal Caribbean released the Utopia of the Seas, which offers 3 to 4-day itineraries. The Wonder and Utopia are very similar, so if you prefer a shorter sailing, consider booking Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas.
Related: What to Wear on a Royal Caribbean Cruise
7. Carnival Vista
Carnival Cruises are always a good time, and the Carnival Vista is no different. This ship first set sail back in 2016, and it is known as an affordable and very fun cruise.
In fact, the Carnival Cruise Line includes a lot of things, and it is an amazing vacation value.
Since Carnival ships tend to be less expensive, they attract a fun and younger demographic. This means that if you’re a young adult, you’ll have no trouble making friends and finding people to party with in the evening time.
On the Carnival Vista is the Sky Box Sports Bar, a nice place to watch sports games and have drinks. In the evening, Sky Box turns into a nightclub with a live DJ and a dance floor.
There are also deck parties, which are outdoor pool parties, with dancing and more.
During the day, you can grab drinks at the Blue Iguana Tequila Bar and the poolside bar. This is a great place to have a cocktail and relax by the pool.
Overall, the Carnival Vista is one of the best cruise ships on which to party at sea. The various bars, entertainment venues, and the fun atmosphere make for a really good time.
Related: What’s Included on a Carnival Cruise – Everything You Need to Know
8. Norwegian Breakaway
When I originally went on the Norwegian Breakaway, I was still a teenager and not old enough to drink. However, one thing I do remember is that the party never stopped.
There are so many fun activities on the Norwegian Breakaway, and there is great nightlife. The entertainment, activities, and even the cruise director and staff are very energetic.
Bliss is the nightclub onboard the Norwegian Breakaway, and it is an absolute blast. With great music from the DJ, a dance floor, and a bar, you can’t ask for more!
As the Norwegian Breakaway gets later, many cruise passengers stop in at O’Sheehans, which is conveniently located near the Bliss nightclub. O’Sheehans is a bar and grill that serves wings, burgers, and nachos 24 hours a day.
One thing that is super unique about the Norwegian Breakaway is that there is an ice bar (it’s actually really cold!), where your glass, the chairs, and the decor are made of ice. The Ice Bar is a popular attraction onboard the Norwegian Breakaway, so be sure to check it out.
Tip: If you’re planning on drinking on your cruise, consider purchasing a beverage package as it can cost well over $12 per drink on a cruise!
Related: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Perks Explained
9. Anthem of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas is known for amazing attractions like indoor sky diving, rock climbing and bumper cars. With these amazing activities onboard, the Anthem of the Seas tends to attract young people who are looking for a good time.
The Anthem of the Seas is one of the largest ships in the world, with over 4,000 passengers. Generally, those who cruise with Royal Caribbean are either younger or, as I like to say, young at heart.
The vibe on the Anthem of the Seas is fun, and everyone onboard wants to have a great vacation.
Like all Royal Caribbean ships, you can expect a lively and fun atmosphere. With so many incredible venues, you’ll always find fun things to do throughout the cruise.
In the evening, there are plenty of amazing shows worth seeing. From production shows to guest entertainers and comedians, Royal Caribbean is known for its outstanding entertainment.
Later at night, the party often starts in Boleros, a Latin-themed nightclub. Going to the nightclub is the perfect way to party, meet people, dance, and have a great time.
Related: 7 Best Cruises for Teenagers
10. Norwegian Escape
The Norwegian Escape came out in 2015, but is a favorite cruise ship for many! This cruise ship has water slides, a ropes course and many bars.
When it comes to getting drinks, there is a Cellars wine bar, the Skyline Bar, the casino bar, and the Atrium Bar, which are great places to grab a drink and socialize with people.
The Skyline Bar is where most partying and dancing happens later at night. On an active party cruise, you can expect the festivities to end around 2:00 AM.
Similarly to the Norwegian Breakaway, the Norwegian Escape has O’Sheehans, a great place to eat and grab a bite to eat late at night with friends.
The Norwegian Escape is a very cool ship with plenty of activities. There are fun things going on throughout the day, and the party goes late into the evening.
Tip: Checkout themed cruises which can be party cruises for people of all ages. Some popular ones that are known for their adult parties include Groove Cruise and Temptations (swingers cruise).
11. Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship at sea. Known for its “Iconic Nightlife,” it features 15 bars, live music venues, and entertainment venues.
From a vibrant Sports Bar to a lively Karaoke Bar, and an incredible AquaTheatre, the Icon of the Seas offers abundant activities for all age groups. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a music lover, or simply enjoy a relaxing drink, there’s a different experience to ignite your evening every night of the cruise..
While Royal Caribbean is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, the Icon of the Seas elevates the experience to a whole new level, offering a unique blend of shows, live music, and bar venues.
If you’re seeking the ultimate party cruise experience, look no further than the Icon of the Seas. It’s your ticket to one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences at sea.
12. Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady is the sister ship to the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady. Furthermore, these cruise ships share many similarities, and they are ideal for partying.
Beginning in 2025, the Brilliant Lady is sailing around North America and leaving Los Angeles, Miami, and New York.
Virgin Voyages is renowned for its thrilling entertainment, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable themed parties. From the Pyjama Party to the Scarlett Night, the ship hosts various wild and exciting events that will leave lasting memories.
As the night unfolds, the party comes alive in the nightclub and casino. The thrill continues until the early hours of the morning, with the parties winding down around 3-4 AM, a time that’s unheard of on most cruises!
Virgin Voyages is the epitome of a party cruise line. The pulsating music, electrifying club atmosphere, and overall vibe create an unparalleled party experience at sea, making it the ultimate choice for those seeking a unique and thrilling cruise vacation.
13. MSC Seascape
The MSC Seascape stands out as one of the best party cruises, offering an exceptional nightlife experience. Sailing out of Miami, the ship combines the city’s vibrant energy with a unique European flair, thanks to the many international travelers MSC attracts, especially from Europe.
This mix of cultures creates an electrifying and unique atmosphere onboard. When you visit the nightclub, you’ll meet cruise passengers from all around the world. During my cruise with MSC, I became friends with people from Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and Mexico.
The ship’s nightlife features the lively Red Cabaret nightclub, which is huge! This multi-story club features a bar, dance floor, live DJ, and plenty of seating for conversations.
The deck parties are also a highlight, especially the popular White Party, where everyone dresses in white and dances under the stars, creating a chic and memorable time.
For a dose of nostalgia, the 80’s Party in the Grand Atrium offers a blast from the past, with classic tunes and passengers dressing up in retro clothing to set the vibe.
MSC Seascape delivers a one-of-a-kind party experience at sea. Whether you’re sailing with friends, family, or solo, MSC Seascape is a great choice for a party cruise.
14. Norwegian Prima
The Norwegian Prima is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to party at sea, with an atmosphere designed for nonstop fun.
Onboard NCL Prima, you’ll find some of the most exciting party spaces, including the high-tech Sensoria Lounge, where immersive light and sound shows create the ultimate party venue.
The Vibe Beach Club offers an exclusive adults-only deck with private cabanas, a full bar, and plenty of space to lounge and enjoy a drink while enjoying the beautiful ocean views.
For those cruise passengers looking for a unique experience, the Prima Theater transforms into a late-night club after hours, complete with a full bar and DJ.
The Galaxy Pavilion adds to the lively onboard scene with thrilling VR experiences and an interactive atmosphere that keeps things exciting.
With its cutting-edge entertainment, innovative party venues, and lively cruise passengers, the Norwegian Prima delivers a memorable party experience.
15. Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, formerly the Grand Classica, is a fantastic choice for party cruisers looking for a quick weekend getaway. With two, three, and four-night cruise itineraries to the Bahamas year-round, Margaritaville at Sea is a great choice for a quick escape, especially for younger Florida locals.
Onboard, the ship features half a dozen bars that keep the drinks flowing late into the night. These bars serve tropical specialties like lychee martinis, vodka-based cocktails, pina coladas, and, of course, their famous margaritas.
Nightclubs start the party at 6 p.m., playing top hits that set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Margaritaville at Sea Paradise also attracts big-name musical acts throughout the year, including artists like KT Tunstall, Tito Puente Jr., and the Marshall Tucker Band, so check the entertainment schedule before you sail.
For those who want to extend the fun, there’s even an option to pair the cruise with an all-inclusive resort stay in the Bahamas, complete with unlimited food, drinks, and activities. This is perfect for a mid-cruise party on land before returning to sea.
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Final Thoughts on The Best Party Cruises
Well there it is, the best party cruises!
When it comes to partying on vacation, it’s hard to beat cruising. As someone who has cruised a lot, I know how partying never stops on the right cruise!
As an adult, letting loose on a cruise and having a good time makes for an awesome vacation.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Ethan Schattauer, a seasoned cruiser since the age of four, has gone on over 40 cruises with his family. Drawing from his extensive travel experiences, Ethan offers a fresh and youthful perspective on the world of cruising. He also writes about cruise cuisine, onboard experiences, and practical tips, providing valuable insights for cruise travelers worldwide.