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FLORIDA - Carnival Cruise Line has announced the cruise line is increasing the minimum age for unaccompanied travelers to 21 years old.
This change, effective for bookings made after February 1st, aims to enhance onboard safety and ensure compliance with conduct regulations.
According to the updated guidelines, guests under 21 must be accompanied by a relative or guardian who is at least 25 years old; notably, this guardian does not need to be a legal guardian.
The cruise line has stated that age verification will occur during embarkation, and non-compliant guests will be denied boarding without compensation.
Exceptions to this policy include legally married couples and qualified military personnel from the U.S. and Canada who are at least 18 years old, provided they present appropriate documentation.
This adjustment comes as the cruise industry approaches peak seasons like spring break and summer, periods that traditionally attract younger travelers.
Previously, Carnival allowed solo travelers aged 18 and above.
This move aligns Carnival's policy with other major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, which also require solo travelers to be at least 21 years old for voyages departing from North America.