travel

Love Is in the Air: 5 Romantic Cruise Destinations

Marti Gonzalez
Marti Gonzalez 4 Min Read
A couple holding hands while lounging on the deck of a cruise ship

Article summary:

Cruise vacations remain a top choice for romantic getaways, blending shared adventure, scenic ports and intimate moments at sea. From tropical island escapes to culturally rich European voyages and dramatic natural landscapes, these five itineraries are ideal for couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries or simply time together. Each cruise pairs unforgettable destinations with elevated onboard experiences designed for connection and relaxation.

Featured romantic cruise destinations:

  • Princess Cruises – Hawaii & Polynesia: Sun-soaked beaches, overnight stays in Honolulu and iconic island scenery
  • Viking Ocean Cruises – Iberia, France & England: Adults-only elegance with historic cities, wine regions and relaxed exploration
  • Celebrity Cruises – Bali, Malaysia & Thailand: Temples, tropical coastlines and immersive cultural experiences
  • Azamara Cruises – Southern Africa & Indian Ocean: Exotic wildlife, wine country and secluded island beaches
  • Silversea Cruises – Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Iconic South American cities, coastal beauty and ultra-luxury sailing

Ready to turn that cruise vacation daydream into a departure date? 🚢 AAA’s insights and tips can help you choose the right ship, itinerary and stateroom with exclusive savings and benefits. 

Read to Learn More
Couple walking on deck of Princess Cruise ship

Cruises have long been synonymous with romance— from honeymoon cruises to anniversary trips and vow renewals. Sailing together brings the magic of shared adventure, candlelit dinners under the stars and scenic ports perfect for strolling hand-in-hand. Couples literally sail off into the sunset. The following romantic cruise destinations — from classic European gems to exotic South Pacific havens — are ideal for couples seeking unforgettable moments together.


Guests learning to play ukulele on board Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises

Hawaii & South Pacific Escape

Dubbed the “Love Boat,” Princess Cruises combines sun-soaked islands with unforgettable shared experiences. Couples can island-hop through Honolulu, Maui, Hilo and Kauai, then sail to Papeete and Moorea in French Polynesia, where turquoise lagoons and vibrant culture await. Elegant dining, immersive shore excursions and the relaxed aloha spirit set the stage for romance. From sunset strolls on Waikiki to pristine South Pacific beaches, this cruise blends adventure with intimate moments at every port.

Romantic excursions

  • Sunset strolls and local luau experiences in Honolulu
  • Scenic hikes, rainforests and volcanic views on Maui and Kauai
  • Snorkeling and beach picnics in Moorea and Papeete

Must-visit spots


Set sail on nostalgia and inspiration — read how The Love Boat’s Jill Whelan turned her iconic TV roots into a real-life role with Princess Cruises and discover why cruising might be your next favorite way to celebrate life’s big moments.

Read the Full Story
Celebrity ship leaving a harbor in Malaysia

Celebrity Cruises

Bali, Malaysia & Thailand

From lively urban centers to peaceful coastal scenery, Celebrity Cruises’ Asian itineraries immerse couples in a perfect blend of adventure and romance. Couples can explore historic temples, tropical beaches and lively markets, while enjoying elegant onboard accommodations and fine dining. Each port offers opportunities to connect, adventure and share once-in-a-lifetime experiences together.

Romantic excursions

  • Sunset dinner cruise in Marina Bay (Singapore)
  • Beach horseback riding in Phuket
  • Cooking classes for two featuring Thai cuisine

Must-visit spots

 view of colourful buildings in Porto, Portugal

Viking Ocean Cruises

Iberia, France & England 

Historic cities, coastal scenery and European culture define this Viking Ocean Cruises’ immersive voyage through Spain, Portugal, France and England. Sailing from Barcelona to London, the itinerary offers extended time in port, allowing couples to explore at a relaxed pace. Viking’s adults-only ships and destination-focused approach create a refined, intimate setting ideal for reconnecting.

Romantic excursions

  • Wine tastings and tapas in Spain
  • Riverside walks and café dining in Bordeaux
  • Evening strolls along historic European harbors

Must-visit spots

Wondering if cruise travel insurance is worth it? Tune in to this episode of the Well-Traveled with AAA podcast to get the answers straight from the pros. 

Listen Now
Aerial view of Mahe' Island, Seychelles

Azamara Cruises

Seychelles Islands, Mombasa, Zanzibar & South Africa

Embark on an entrancing journey with Azamara Cruises, where dramatic coastlines, pristine beaches and exotic wildlife come together to create an unforgettable adventure. This itinerary takes you through the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean. From the historic streets of Zanzibar to the rolling vineyards of Cape Town, couples can enjoy immersive excursions and intimate experiences designed to inspire connection and discovery.

Romantic excursions

  • Explore Stone Town in Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Savor world-class wines amidst the scenic Cape Town’s Cape Winelands
  • Indulge in a secluded, romantic dinner on white-sand beaches of Mauritius

Must-visit spots

  • Port Victoria, SeychellesExplore colorful Creole architecture and bustling markets in this charming coastal hub.
  • Nosy-Be, Madagascar: Discover the "Perfume Island," known for fragrant plantations and vibrant marine life.
  • Cape Town, South Africa: Experience stunning mountainscapes and cosmopolitan charm
Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Silversea Cruises

Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires

A vibrant blend of South American culture, stunning coastal scenery and iconic cities defines this luxurious journey from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires with Silversea Cruises. Couples can immerse themselves in the energy of Rio’s Carnival, relax on tropical Brazilian beaches and explore elegant Uruguayan ports before arriving in the passionate tango capital of Argentina. Refined onboard amenities — including butler service, all‑inclusive dining and spacious suites with private verandas — set the stage for unforgettable shared experiences from sunrise to sunset on ultra-luxury voyages.

Romantic excursions

  • Feel the rhythm at Rio Carnival parades and street parties in Rio de Janeiro
  •  Wander beach towns like Ilhabela and Punta del Este hand‑in‑hand
  •  Discover Montevideo’s historic plazas and seaside promenades

Must‑visit spots

  • Rio’s famous beaches — iconic Copacabana and Ipanema landscapes
  • Punta del Este, Uruguaychic coastal charm and sunset views
  • Buenos Aires, Argentina — passionate tango nights, world‑class cuisine and vibrant street life

All aboard with AAA

Set sail on the ultimate romantic escape. Whether you crave sleek modern luxury, intimate elegance or timeless charm, each cruise offers couples the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. AAA Members enjoy exclusive perks—think reduced deposits, complimentary upgrades and onboard credit—to make your getaway even more magical. Let a knowledgeable AAA Travel Agent help you plan and book a memorable, romantic adventure.  

FAQs for planning a romantic cruise:

Booking 6–12 months in advance can help secure the best staterooms, preferred dining times, and onboard activities—especially for popular destinations or honeymoon trips.

Couples often prefer balcony cabins or suites for privacy, ocean views, and intimate spaces to enjoy sunrise or sunset together. Some ships also offer adults-only deck areas for added tranquility.

Yes! Most cruise lines provide options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets. Guests can request accommodations when booking or notify the dining team onboard.


Cruises offer romantic extras such as private dinners, spa packages for two, champagne in the cabin or even vow renewal ceremonies. Many ships can help personalize celebrations with flowers, chocolates or special menus.

Pack light layers for varying climates, formal attire for elegant dining, comfortable shoes for excursions, swimwear for beaches and pools and a few special items for romantic evenings like a shawl, jewelry, or a favorite fragrance.

Absolutely. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, or unexpected delays, giving couples peace of mind while traveling internationally or to remote destinations.

Explore, discover, wander...

Pack your bags for romance

Set sail on the perfect romantic getaway — let an expert AAA Travel Agent guide you.

Contact an Agent