If you’re a couple that’s taking a cruise, you’re likely thinking about romance. And why not? There’s something instantly romantic about being able to get away from it all, spend time with someone you love, and do it all with beautiful, tropical surroundings.
But there’s no reason to simply be happy with the status quo when it comes to the romantic feelings on a cruise. After all, there are a number of ways you can take an already romantic time and make it even greater.
Order in Strawberries & Champagne
If you really want to get the romance going, what better way than having a delivery of chocolate-dipped strawberries and a little champagne? In fact, you can even order them ahead of time to have them delivered and waiting for you when you get on the ship.
Every line offers a cruise planner where you can book anything from wi-fi packages to shore excursions before you sail. For many, this includes food and beverages you can purchase to celebrate special occasions. And yes, that includes romantic gifts.
Carnival, for instance, offers multiple types of strawberries guests can order and even heart-shaped cakes. As well, you have your choice of multiple brands of wine or champagne.
If you’re aiming for romantic, getting the evening started with some of these goodies is ideal.
Make Love on the Balcony
If you’re on a getaway with your partner, then there’s little doubt that making love is on your minds. So how can you make it more romantic?
What about having a go of it in the open air with a view that’s second to none?
If you book a balcony or suite cabin, then you’ll have your own private outdoor space. It’s nothing too large; typically it’s only large enough for a couple of chairs and a small table. Still, you’ll have a view of the open water and fresh air that can’t be beat. It’s only natural that adults think of taking full advantage.
In that case, just know that while it’s private, it’s not completely private. There are gaps in the dividers where a neighbor might be able to see into your balcony. As well, sound will travel.
Still, if you do get the urge, just take a step out before to make sure no neighbors are around and keep it quiet.
Take an Adults-Only Cruise
While we have nothing against kids, there’s little argument that having lots of kids around kills the romantic vibe. The solution? Taking an adults-only cruise.
Any ship you sail will have an adults-only area, but only a certain few cruises are actually adults-only. The most well-known is Virgin Voyages. The cruise line’s entire focus is only on passengers that are 18 and over.
When you sail with adults, it doesn’t just mean there aren’t any kids on the ship. It also means that everything can be tailored toward adult tastes. That includes entertainment options that can be more risqué and sexy without having to worry about younger passengers, which always help set the mood.
In effect, the entire vibe of the cruise can bend more toward romance instead of having to keep in mind less mature passengers.
Book a Couples Massage in the Spa
If you really want to turn up the romance, then the cruise ship’s spa is the place to be. The lines offer all sorts of treatment, ranging from salon services to acupuncture to relaxing in the thermal spa.
But what you’ll want to check out to crank up the romance are the couples massages. All the cruise lines will offer them, and while expensive, it’s a chance to relax and enjoy some time with your loved one while also getting a rub-down to take care of all those aches and pains.
Of course, there’s no hanky-panky during the massage itself, but afterwards you might be in the mood to take things back to the room and enjoy each other’s company.
Take a Night to Dine in a Specialty Restaurant
Food and dining is a major part of any cruise, but if we’re being honest, most dining on the ship isn’t that steeped in romance. Having a meal in the buffet or the main dining room while surrounded by hundreds of other passengers doesn’t exactly set the mood you might be going for.
If that’s the case, then think about dining in a specialty restaurant. Yes, these restaurants do cost extra, but they also serve food that’s better (it’s prepared just for you instead of thousands of people every night) and most importantly, in an atmosphere that’s much more intimate.
If you’re thinking of a quiet, cozy meal away from lots of other people, then that’s exactly what many of these restaurants offer. It’s a chance to bond and connect over a meal without having tons of other people around.
Upgrade Your Room & the Overall Experience
Finally, one of the best ways to up the romance factor on a cruise is to upgrade your stateroom. Now any room you book on a cruise will be fine, but there are definitely some that will better set the mood.
First, we’d suggest definitely having a room with a balcony at a minimum. But if you can afford it, a suite should be at the top of the list.
Not only are these rooms more spacious and comfortable, but they often come with some nice perks. Notably, many suites get access to suites-only areas of the ship. There’s often a restaurant, lounge, and most importantly a private pool deck.
Here, it’s quieter than the main pool deck and there are far fewer people. So if you’re wanting to, say, soak in a hot tub without having a dozen other people with you, then your best option is going to be here.
Go at an off-time and it can even feel like the entire pool area is built for only you. That definitely is more romantic than sharing a spot with hundreds of other passengers and blaring music.
