Cruising with Celebrity Cruises offers a luxurious experience for travelers of all ages — from families with young children to solo adventurers and retirees. However, before you embark, it’s essential to understand the age policy on Celebrity Cruises, which sets specific guidelines for infants, children, teenagers, and adults. These policies ensure safety, compliance with international regulations, and an enjoyable experience for every guest on board.
Celebrity Cruises operates under a detailed set of age restrictions covering everything from cabin occupancy and onboard activities to alcohol consumption and shore excursions. Whether you’re planning a multigenerational family vacation or a romantic getaway, knowing these rules can help you plan your journey more efficiently.
One of the first questions many families ask is: What is the minimum age to cruise on Celebrity Cruises? The answer depends on the itinerary.
For most sailings: The minimum age for infants is 6 months old at the time of sailing.
For transatlantic, transpacific, Hawaii, South America, and certain remote itineraries: Infants must be at least 12 months old.
This difference exists because longer voyages and those with multiple sea days have limited access to medical facilities or emergency ports. The cruise line follows strict safety protocols, ensuring that younger infants aren’t exposed to unnecessary risks during extended sea travel.
Parents should note that Celebrity Cruises requires proof of age for infants and children at the time of check-in. Birth certificates or passports are the most commonly accepted documents.
Celebrity Cruises also has policies for who can occupy a stateroom or suite.
Guests must be at least 21 years old to book and occupy a cabin alone.
Young adults aged 18 to 20 may occupy a cabin only if traveling with someone who is 21 or older, in an adjoining or nearby stateroom.
Minors under 18 must always be booked in the same stateroom as their parent or guardian, or in an adjacent cabin that connects internally.
This policy ensures the safety and supervision of minors while maintaining a consistent standard of onboard responsibility. For families booking multiple cabins, the cruise line will often make special arrangements to ensure parents and children are accommodated close together.
Celebrity Cruises is known for offering family-friendly amenities, but there are still specific age rules for babies and toddlers.
Infant Minimum Age: 6 months for standard sailings; 12 months for long or transoceanic routes.
Diaper Policy: Babies and toddlers must be potty-trained to use swimming pools or whirlpools. Diapered children, even those in swim diapers, are not permitted in pool areas due to maritime health regulations.
Nursery and Babysitting: Some Celebrity ships offer “Camp at Sea” programs and limited babysitting services for children aged 3 and above who are potty-trained. However, infants under 3 years generally require full parental supervision at all times.
For parents, it’s important to plan ahead. Celebrity does not typically provide strollers, baby food, or formula, so families must bring these essentials onboard. Cribs or Pack ‘n Plays can be requested in advance but are subject to availability.
Celebrity Cruises provides an excellent range of programs for kids and teens through its Camp at Sea initiative. However, there are specific age categories and participation rules to know about.
Camp at Sea Age Groups:
Shipmates (Ages 3–5) – Engaging games, storytelling, and crafts under professional supervision.
Cadets (Ages 6–9) – Interactive educational sessions and team activities.
Captains (Ages 10–12) – More adventurous and tech-focused programs.
Teens (Ages 13–17) – Lounges, video games, movie nights, and social activities tailored for older teens.
All youth activities are supervised by trained staff who are certified in CPR and first aid. Children must be potty-trained and able to participate without diapers to join these programs.
Parents should also be aware that children under 13 are not permitted to sign themselves in or out of youth programs — they must be signed in and out by a parent or guardian. Teen guests (ages 13–17) may sign themselves in and out, but parental permission is required beforehand.
If a traveler wishes to sail solo, Celebrity Cruises enforces clear rules based on age.
Guests must be at least 21 years old to book a cabin and travel independently.
Guests aged 18 to 20 may travel alone only if:
They are married (proof of marriage required), or
They are active members of the U.S. or Canadian military.
Celebrity Cruises strictly monitors these requirements at booking and check-in. For younger guests, a parent or legal guardian must accompany them on the voyage and remain onboard throughout.
Celebrity Cruises has a clear pregnancy policy for health and safety reasons. Expectant mothers who have entered their 24th week of pregnancy or beyond by the end of the cruise are not permitted to sail. Passengers who are pregnant must provide a doctor’s note confirming the estimated due date and that they are medically fit to travel.
Since many destinations lack immediate medical access, this policy helps protect both the passenger and the unborn child. Expecting mothers are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider before booking.
The drinking age on Celebrity Cruises varies depending on where the ship is sailing.
For sailings departing from North America, South America, Asia, and Australia: The minimum drinking age is 21 years.
For sailings departing from Europe, South America (except U.S. departures), and other international locations: The minimum drinking age is 18 years.
However, there’s a notable exception: on European sailings, parents or guardians may sign a waiver allowing 18–20-year-old children to consume alcohol onboard in moderation. This exception only applies to beer and wine, and the waiver must be signed at the Guest Relations desk upon boarding.
Celebrity Cruises maintains a strict no-tolerance policy for underage drinking and will revoke beverage privileges if any violations occur. Alcohol purchased ashore is also subject to shipboard restrictions — bottles are stored until the end of the voyage.
Smoking rules on Celebrity Cruises are designed to ensure a clean and comfortable atmosphere for all guests.
The legal smoking age is 18 or 21, depending on the departure country’s regulations.
Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas and on specific sections of the ship.
All staterooms, balconies, and indoor areas are non-smoking zones.
Violating these rules may result in cleaning fees or further penalties. Electronic cigarettes and vapes fall under the same policy.
For guests interested in gaming, the Celebrity Cruises casino is open to adults only.
The minimum age to gamble is 18 years old, except for cruises departing from the United States, where the age limit is 21.
Guests under the legal age are not permitted to loiter or participate in casino activities.
Casino staff strictly enforce age verification. Guests should carry valid photo identification when entering the casino area.
When it comes to exploring ports of call, the age requirements for shore excursions can vary by destination and activity.
Most excursions are open to all ages, but some — such as snorkeling, scuba diving, zip-lining, or ATV adventures — have minimum age limits (usually 8, 12, or 16 years old).
For certain tours, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Parents are advised to check the specific excursion descriptions before booking, as age restrictions are clearly listed for each activity.
Celebrity Cruises promotes wellness through its world-class fitness centers and spas, but not all areas are open to children or teens.
Fitness Center:
Minimum age to use gym equipment is 16 years.
Guests aged 13–15 may use the gym only with a parent or guardian present.
Children under 13 are not allowed in the fitness area.
Spa and Salon:
Spa treatments are generally available to guests 18 and older.
Select teen spa services may be offered to guests aged 13–17, but parental consent is mandatory.
Thermal suites and saunas are reserved for adults 18 and over.
These policies ensure the comfort and safety of all guests while maintaining the relaxing atmosphere Celebrity Cruises is known for.
Celebrity Cruises’ nightlife is lively yet refined. However, access to nightclubs and late-night venues is age-restricted.
Minimum age for nightclub entry is 18 years.
Guests under 18 are not permitted in bars or lounges after 10:00 PM unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Alcohol service follows the standard regional drinking age policy.
This ensures a mature environment for adults to unwind without compromising family-friendly standards.
Celebrity Cruises understands that parents may need some time alone during their vacation. The line provides limited babysitting and childcare options, subject to ship availability.
In-cabin babysitting: Available for children aged 12 months to 12 years, for an hourly fee. Reservations must be made in advance.
Group babysitting (Slumber Party): Offered for children aged 3–11 years during evening hours at Camp at Sea. Kids can enjoy games, movies, and snacks while parents enjoy a dinner or show.
All caregivers are trained members of the ship’s youth staff, and safety protocols are strictly followed.
For passengers staying in The Retreat — Celebrity’s luxury suite experience — the age rules are similar but come with additional privacy expectations. Children are welcome, but parents should note that certain areas (such as the Retreat Lounge and private sundecks) are adult-oriented and may not be suitable for young children.
Staff may restrict access for minors during specific hours to preserve the ambiance and comfort of other guests.
Celebrity Cruises also hosts group bookings for schools, youth organizations, and family reunions. In such cases, the following policies apply:
Groups must have one adult (21+) for every five minors.
All minors must be supervised at all times in public spaces.
The cruise line may require a signed Parental Consent Form for each underage participant.
Failure to meet these requirements can result in denied boarding or cancellation without refund, as Celebrity Cruises prioritizes passenger safety and legal compliance.
When traveling internationally, minors under 18 years old must carry proper documentation to comply with immigration and cruise regulations.
For minors traveling with both parents, a passport and birth certificate usually suffice.For those traveling with only one parent or without parents, Celebrity Cruises may require:
A notarized Parental Consent Letter authorizing the accompanying adult to travel with the child.
Copies of both parents’ identification documents.
These measures prevent unauthorized travel with minors and align with international maritime and child protection laws.
One of the reasons Celebrity Cruises is popular among families is its ability to cater to multiple generations. From toddlers to grandparents, everyone can enjoy tailored experiences — as long as the age rules are respected.
Grandparents traveling with grandchildren without parents must provide the proper consent forms, especially for international sailings. Cruise staff may request additional identification during embarkation, so it’s wise to prepare these documents in advance.
Age policies aren’t just about rules — they ensure safety, legal compliance, and onboard harmony. Ships sail under specific flag states and visit ports with varying local laws, meaning Celebrity Cruises must adhere to a mix of international maritime regulations and local jurisdiction requirements.
By following these guidelines, the cruise line ensures that:
Children are safely supervised,
Alcohol consumption remains responsible,
Onboard experiences maintain a refined and secure environment, and
Medical and emergency procedures can be effectively implemented if necessary.
CategoryAge Requirement
Minimum Infant Age6 months (12 months for long sailings)
Minimum Booking Age21 years
Casino Entry18 or 21 depending on region
Drinking Age21 (or 18 in select regions)
Fitness Center16 (13–15 with supervision)
Spa Access18+ (limited services for 13–17)
Nightclub Entry18+
Camp at Sea3–17 years (potty-trained only)
Babysitting12 months–12 years
Pool AccessPotty-trained children only
Pregnant GuestsNot allowed beyond 24 weeks
Understanding these age restrictions helps families and travelers plan smoother, stress-free vacations. Here are a few practical tips:
Book Early for Families: Cabins for families fill up fast, especially those with connecting doors or bunk configurations.
Check Itinerary-Specific Rules: Some destinations (like Alaska or Europe) may have different local drinking or gambling age limits.
Carry All Documents: Keep birth certificates, passports, and consent letters handy.
Communicate with Guest Services: If traveling with minors, contact Celebrity Cruises’ customer service before sailing to confirm any special arrangements or medical requirements.
By staying informed, travelers can focus on what truly matters — creating unforgettable memories at sea.
Celebrity Cruises’ age policy is designed to ensure safety, enjoyment, and compliance for every guest on board. Whether you’re sailing with toddlers, teens, or traveling solo, understanding these guidelines will help you make the most of your journey.
From drinking age and casino limits to childcare and cabin rules, every detail reflects the cruise line’s commitment to comfort and security. With proper planning, families can relax knowing that Celebrity Cruises provides a sophisticated, inclusive environment that caters to every age group.
So, whether you’re planning your first family cruise or an adults-only getaway, rest assured that Celebrity Cruises’ age policy has been thoughtfully crafted to balance freedom with responsibility — making every voyage smooth, safe, and truly unforgettable.
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