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Royal Caribbean Wedding - To Do or Not To Do

By amberocks18 , April 4, 2017 in Royal Caribbean International

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amberocks18

I've been planning to get married onboard a cruise and have enjoyed Royal Caribbean's cruise line for years so I thought it would be a no-brainer perfect idea. Reading reviews about the wedding package planning process is giving me terrible anxiety that this is a nightmare in the making. Has anyone recently had a wedding with Royal Caribbean? How was it? Highs and Lows please! All advice appreciated! I believe they have replaced their coordinating company so I hope that means service has improved. I'm not into planning all the details but being an active participant for a successfully communicated celebration is expected but from what I've read, even the basic idea of customer service is terrible.

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Our daughter got married while at sea on Liberty two years ago. Everything the ship people did for us was outstanding, no complaints at all. They even got the Captain to perform the ceremony, it can also be the Staff Captain and you have no control over who does it.

The problem was the pre-cruise planning coordinator, called Royal Romance at the time. They were difficult to connect with, messages and emails would take days to be returned. They blew one major communication to the ship, which was the plans for the ladies in the wedding to have their hair and makeup done the morning of the ceremony. Because the ship spa people didn't know about this plan, they took much longer than planned and no photographs could be taken before the ceremony. They moved the photos to after the ceremony which caused the bride and groom to miss most of the reception.

I would suggest you somehow find a way to open a line of communication with the coordinator on the ship, so you can double check all your plans.

I got married 8 years ago on the Explorer of the Seas. Reviews weren't any better back then and I relied heavily on this site for advice/help. Royal Romance were a royal PIA but ultimately it was worth it and I don't regret at all.

It was annoying having to go through the cruse for everything since we got married on ship in port but if you are planning on having this type of wedding, you have to go in it with an open mind. I did a bunch of stuff to make it my own and had my friend carry on a suitcase and set up the reception area the best way she could while I was getting ready for the ceremony.

I wrote my own ceremony and even though I had sent it in weeks in advance, the person who married us never received it and wanted to do his own thing. We compromised and did a bit of both. I made my own playlist for the ceremony and that worked perfect. We had a buffet reception (in the lounge) which was wonderful.

We had 150 people come onboard for the wedding (which was in the theater) and about 90 people stay onboard to sail with us for the week. We set up wedding related activities in Bermuda such as a beer/food tasting and a golf outing.

Feel free to email me if you want to ask me any questions. I'd be happy to help. I know how scary and unsure the whole thing is!

[email protected]

If you aren't really picky, it could be fine. If you are the planner...then get married BEFORE you board...and do it your own way. Let the cruise be the "after party".

We got married at sea on Princess 9 years ago so I can't comment on recent RCCL wedding experiences, but I'll add a few things.

We really enjoyed our wedding. We got married the 1st day at sea. The ceremony was followed by a lunch in a specialty restaurant and then a reception in a lounge. We had a total of 50 people. The prices are set so there's no negotiating, etc, but we did not find things to be any more expensive than land based options (and sometimes less expensive).

You do have to give up a lot of control--and be ok with that---when doing a cruise ship wedding. If you have very specific ideas of exactly how your wedding must be (or else the day is ruined) it's not a good option.

I kept a binder of all communication with the planners, etc. and took it with me. There were a few things I had to pull out to show the planner on the ship. In our case, the shipboard planner was not good at all, but the maitre d' of the specialty restaurant was so fantastic and did everything in his power to make up for the planner.

There were some things that did not go as planned (photographer never showed up at the cabin to take pre-ceremony photos as agreed, the hair appointments were not set as planned--and the planner would not help with it and the spa would not do my makeup like the agreed to on embarkation day), but in the end we had a wonderful time with family and friends.

If you go in to it with the mindset that things can go wrong, but in the end you'll be married and have a wonderful adventure, it can be a wonderful option for a wedding.

One of my friends was married on St. Thomas (Magen's Bay beach) during a Serenade cruise 12 years ago. Not a recent ceremony, but everything went perfect for them that day, including hair and makeup. amberocks18, have you checked out the Honeymoon & Wedding Cruises forum? http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=31. Congrats on your wedding!

Thank you all so much for the feedback! I truly appreciate it. I do feel that I am okay with not having a lot of specific control but the standard communication and timeline follow through can be managed with proper organization, which I rock at! You all brought back my excitement to proceed. I know there will be bumps, no wedding is perfect, but I just don't want it to be a disaster either. I'm thinking that as long as I can effectively communicate with the director on the actual cruise I will be okay. Our close friends and family are all excited about the idea, or at least tolerating it for us. It is a short inexpensive cruise, 3 nights to the bahamas, we all live in south florida, and this is mainly for an elongated reception since i think traditional weddings are over too quickly for all the time and money spent planning. Honeymoon will be separate. We are thinking about getting married on the day before the ship returns so I will have a day and a half on board before to hammer out any issues which may be the key.

I will try to remind myself to keep it simple and that this is for my guests to celebrate with us so as long as we are together we will enjoy it

• 4 weeks later...

Matched2014

Hi! My Fiancee and I are planning the same thing right now and have the SAME concerns after reading all of the bad reviews and numerous emails unresponded by the "Royal Wedding" staff. We are planning on getting married on the Harmony in December and when we spoke with Marcus on the phone, he was very nice and seemed to think there would be no problem with what we wanted. He told us to send him an email with the details of what we want (very small - there's only about 10 of us and we don't have a lot of demands, just basic, ceremony by Captain, wedding cake, photos, maybe some lite snacks, etc.). We sent the email a week ago and have tried to get him to respond twice with nothing.....I just sent him another email and mentioned the bad reviews, I wasn't rude, just stated the facts, so HOPEFULLY we will get a response, but any advice on how to get through all of this is greatly appreciated here as well!! GOOD LUCK to you too!!! When is your cruise/wedding?

I was planning a much larger cruise than you mentioned sothe package price and the minor benefits included were my biggest hurdle, my fiancéand I have since put the “ceremony on board” off the table. There are so manyunknowns for the logistics and minimum contact based on the package contract inorder to sort it all out that for such a large event it was going to cost afortune for mediocre return, so it wouldn’t be worth the money for us. I’ve hadpretty good contact and good service, just the way they do the planning and thepackage offered that put us off. I think I may have spoken to Marcus once andgot the same service, I say bypass him and call for help. I have been working withKayla who was very nice and responsive, see if you can ask for her. For thedescription you mentioned, the wedding cruise will probably be just right foryou, but for us, we are just too large a group. Best Wishes for a great weddingand happy marriage!

Thank you so much! Already emailed Kayla and got a response.....good luck to you on your wedding as well and congratulations!!

• 7 months later...

Hello. Any updates on the weddings? I'll be getting married on Anthem of the Seas on 1st Sea Day (April 1st) and I'm planning the wedding now with Laura G.

My fiance and I are planning to get married on the 5 day cruise to Bermuda in 2019 through royal caribbean. We decided on this awhile ago, but had to wait for the official 2019 itineraries to be released. I am horrified after reading some of the reviews... are there any updates on your wedding? I would appreciate any and all tips as we prepare for this.

I agree with a small wedding prior to the cruise...and let the cruise be the "thing"! A ceremony is a ceremony......no need to pay big bucks for the wedding...the MARRIAGE is the thing!

We are renewing our vows for our 25th anniversary on Liberty of the Seas the week of Feb 4th. Communication via email has been our complaint so far. Along with the huge cost and what you get for it. Can give you an update of how it goes after we return if you would like.

My cousin just had her ceremony on the Oasis earlier this month. She did it the first sea day and had a wonderful time. Early in the process she had communication problems but complained and escalated and wound up with a wonderful supervisor who was very on the ball.

She was very happy with the results, had great photos, we all had hair appointments the day of, she had make up done. They liked the cake but I thought it was dreadful. Staff was friendly and unobtrusive while serving food and drinks. We had a second cocktail party later in the week which was also nicely done.

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• 2 weeks later...

I will be getting married on RCCL Anthem of the Seas on August 4, 2018. So far, the experience with "Royal Celebrations" has been fine. Sure, I don't get to pick every minute details about the wedding, but honestly, that takes some stress off. Our coordinator, Laura, has been great and is fairly responsive to my calls/emails, so no complaints there. Everyone I tell about my wedding plans are so impressed and think it's a really neat, unique idea - which is exactly what my fiance and I were going for. Here's hoping everything keeps going smoothly!

Glad it's working for you. I think Royal changed the contractor, because they were called Royal Romance when our daughter got married 3 years ago.

The onky advice I can give is to try to get the contact on the ship so you can confirm details. For example, our daughter had arranged for the bridal party to get their hair and makup done on the morning of the wedding. However, Royal Romance neglected to tell the ship about this, so 5 girls show up at the salon and there's only one stylist working that morning. Needless to say, this took way longer than expected, pre-wedding photos were cancelled, and they missed half the reception taking the photos thst should have been taken before the wedding.

• 1 year later...

Moving this subject up due to wedding and vow renewal season. Any words of wisdom? We are renewing our vows on Adventure during our May cruise. So far the planning is good. It will just be the two of us, but I'm sure many of you will have bigger affairs. How goes?

We got married embarkation day at Dazzles on Oasis. The pre wedding communication was a little lacking, but it ended up being a great experience. Food was above what we expected, the venue and on ship experience for our non sailing guests was amazing. The time wasn't as structured as you would expect but would absolutely do it again. Let me know if you have any questions!

My wife and I got married 13 years ago on the Rhapsody of the Seas in port in Galveston. We had about 75 people attend the wedding and reception. We absolutely loved it. Like many others have said if you are willing to give up a little control it will be fine. Although it was in port you still have to prepare for a remote wedding bringing on extra luggage for wedding clothes etc. We did it with the idea of not having to deal with multiple vendors etc. We picked a package with Royal they did the rest. Other than picking the menu and drinks I don't remember having to hassle with much. It was a blast for those guests that had never been on a cruise ship before to see their amazement. 

So much so my brother got married on the Liberty of the Seas 2 years ago. They really enjoyed themselves and had no complaints. As stated you can have the ship provide an official but myself and my bro both had our mom( who is an ordained minister) marry us both. Great memories for my family so we have a deep connection with Royal Caribbean.

I will say since being on some of the newer mega ships if you have a large group coming I would choose one of those ships. They have chapels that are large enough to accommodate a large group if you still want that church feel. Our wedding felt like a one week event without a letdown. I took my tuxedo off and threw swimming trunks on and was at the pool with a drink less than 30 min after my reception. Of all my friends weddings every still remembers ours 13 years later. 🙂

Hey all! I got married on Embarkation Day in August 2018 on Anthem of the Seas. I wrote a VERY DETAILED review of the entire experience on Cruise Critic. I've copied the link below. Check it out and let me know if you have any questions for things I didn't address - I'm happy to help!

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Home » Cruise Tips » Cruise Weddings: A Complete Guide to Getting Married on a Cruise Ship

Cruise Weddings: A Complete Guide to Getting Married on a Cruise Ship

Planning or planning to attend a wedding at sea? Here's our guide on everything you need to know about cruise weddings.

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Decided to say, “I do”? Congratulations! The next step in planning your nuptials is typically deciding on a wedding venue. Why limit your options to land when you can exchange vows on a cruise ship? If you’re considering how to have a wedding on a cruise ship, there are a few things to know. The following should help you on your way to planning — or attending — a wedding on a cruise ship.

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How do cruise weddings work?

A legal marriage can’t be recognized in open seas, which are not under the jurisdiction of any country, unless the ship captain or officiant is also a justice of the peace, minister, or notary public. That means that most legal cruise weddings take place either onboard the ship in port or harborside, docked in a destination. Many cruise ships do have chapels, but some offer more scenic options like a ceremony out on deck.

Each port has their own requirements to obtain a marriage license, which couples are responsible for handling. Documentation should be completed and submitted approximately two to three months prior to any legal ceremony at sea.

Same-sex marriages are a possibility in countries where they are recognized. Of course, any couple can also opt for a symbolic ceremony, meaning that there is still all the pomp and circumstance of a celebration, without it being legally binding.

Cruise wedding couples can choose to hold their ceremony in a homeport like Seattle or Miami before departure. This gives them the ability to choose their own clergy and invite day guests onboard for the afternoon before setting sail. Or they can choose a wedding in a port of call, like Mexico, either onboard the ship or at a venue like the beach of a resort.

Attending as a guest? It’s probably best to leave the giant gift box of fine China at home and opt for either a cash gift or utilize the couple’s registry to mail them their present ahead of time. Some cruise lines even offer their own registry and wedding websites. This allows the cruising couple to register for shipside gifts like spa treatments , excursions , and onboard spending money .

When to book a cruise wedding?

It’s important to decide if most of the wedding guests will only be along for the vows, or if friends and family are also cruising with you. If you extend the invitation for the latter, be sure to book your cruise wedding well in advance. You will need to secure a block of cabins with a group rate and ensure that guests have ample time to plan the vacation and request off work.

On the other hand, if guests are traveling just for the ceremony, be sure to advise them to fly in well before the day so they don’t miss the big event.

Cruise lines only allot a certain number of weddings to take place on any given week or sailing. So, if you have a very specific date in mind, it’s best to book as far in advance as possible . The downside to this is that during that long stretch of time, something could impact the sailing affecting dates, ports of call, and more. As with any cruise, all guests need to be flexible — even those exchanging nuptials.

One way to handle any potential tweaks to your cruise wedding is to provide as much logistical (time and place) information as possible on save the dates but refer to the voyage as “ Caribbean ” or an “ Alaskan adventure ,” rather than listing specific ships or ports. As the date draws nearer and it’s time to send out the official invitations, you can include more information at your discretion.

As with every aspect of a cruise wedding, it’s important to discuss how any changes (or heaven forbid, cancellations ) will be handled with your coordinator so expectations can be managed.

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What is included in wedding cruise packages?

Each cruise line has a dedicated wedding coordinator to help plan the absolute best cruise weddings. Typically, there are a variety of packages on offer, much like at any banquet hall or more traditional wedding venue.

These wedding cruise packages vary in offerings from an intimate ceremony on the ship to an idyllic destination event and reception — but they do not include the cost of the cruise itself. In addition to standard marriage packages, many cruise lines also offer vow renewals and even romantic proposal packages.

Inclusions of wedding packages vary by cruise line and by tier. Packages typically employ the cruise line’s preferred vendors, so keep in mind that it might be difficult or impossible to handpick florists or photographers.

Expect cruise wedding inclusions along the lines of:

• Services of a wedding coordinator pre-cruise and onboard
• Ceremony officiated by ship captain
• Decorations
• Recorded music
• Wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
• Dedicated photographer
• Keepsake certificate and small gifts for the wedded couple
• Dinner for two and/or a luncheon for guests
• Breakfast in bed

As with any milestone event, you can keep it as simple as an intimate elopement or as lavish as a large ceremony with a banquet dinner with every upgrade on offer. Choosing a cruise line that provides options will help tailor your wedding day to fit within your means as well as your dreams.

Should I get married onboard or in port?

The decision to officiate a cruise wedding onboard or in port is a personal decision, but there are a few logistical differences between the two options.

Only couples with a relatively small guest list are able to conduct their wedding onboard a cruise ship. Most lines restrict onboard wedding parties to 50 non-sailing guests maximum.

Sailing with more than 50 guests might be its own organizational challenge, but couples looking for a larger wedding at sea can opt to hold their ceremony at a land-based venue in one of their itinerary’s approved destinations.

Some neat options of cruise wedding venues include the shores of San Juan; a winery in Santorini; cruise line private islands like MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve; or atop a glacier in Juneau, Alaska. The nice part about a destination cruise wedding package is that many cruise lines include roundtrip transportation from the ship to the venue for the couple in the cost of the package.

Either a marriage in port or onboard can be legally binding, as long as the couple works with the cruise line to file the correct paperwork in advance.

What is the best cruise ship to get married on?

Because you’ll be embarking on your built-in honeymoon along with your wedding, be sure to choose a ship and itinerary that distinctly suits your style. A notable exception is popular cruise line Viking Cruises, which does not offer cruise weddings.

The ship that will serve as the setting for your wedding day should reflect you as a couple . In addition to the itinerary and the length, consider how you’ll want to spend your time aboard together. Are you looking for a ship that will cater to the whims of your entire wedding party or are you looking for an intimate escape that revolves around time by the pool or in the spa?

Using a travel advisor who specializes in cruise weddings could be helpful in selecting the right vessel for your preferences and perhaps most importantly, your budget . It’s also helpful to note that not every ship in a cruise line’s fleet accommodates legal marriage ceremonies.

How much do cruise weddings cost?

In terms of the packages, cruise weddings are a considerable value when it comes to how much is spent on the ceremony and reception in comparison to the average land-based wedding. However, an inherent part of a cruise wedding is the cruise, which can fluctuate in price depending if the betrothed are looking to splash out on a suite or opt for a more modest cabin.

As an example, Carnival ’s entry-level Signature Ceremony for up to eight guests is $1,799. Princess Cruises , known for being the “Love Boat,” offers a selection of wedding packages including a Timeless Wedding at Sea, also for up to eight guests, for $4,495. Most wedding packages are modifiable to add additional guests for a per-person fee.

Other popular cruise lines that offer a range of cruise wedding packages include Disney Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Windstar Cruises, and more.

A simple Polynesian-style vow renewal ceremony on Paul Gauguin Cruises is just $290. But its weeklong Tahitian cruises typically start from about $10,000 per couple.

Weddings held during busy holiday seasons as well as popular times of the year (read: summer) might incur an additional fee. 

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What to wear for a cruise wedding?

While a cruise wedding is unlike your typical occasion, it still borrows from common wedding etiquette. The marrying couple sets the tone for their special day. It is up to them whether it is a fully formal event or if the theme is more beachy chic.

If you’re a guest, take your cue on what to wear from the invitation and when in doubt, ask. Just because it’s a destination wedding in Hawaii doesn’t automatically mean flip-flops and shorts are acceptable. On the other hand, many couples enjoy the freedom to fuss less about gowns and tuxedos as they — and many of their nearest and dearest — get ready to voyage through Alaska or set sail on a tropical vacation.

Did you find this guide to cruise weddings helpful? Were you or someone you know married at sea? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences with cruise weddings.

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Cruise weddings: Everything you need to know about getting hitched at sea

Are you considering a cruise wedding? At-sea nuptials have many selling points — including a wedding planner and a built-in honeymoon — especially for couples looking for smaller, more intimate weddings (up to 125 guests). They're also ideal for elopements. Yet before you decide to get married on a cruise ship, you'll want to understand all the pros and cons.

Think of cruise ships as floating hotels that can offer all the essentials a wedding venue needs, including food, drinks and overnight accommodations for guests. You've got space to host wedding-related events over several days — such as a pre-reception cocktail hour, pre-ceremony spa day with the girls and morning-after brunch. Cruise ship employees are trained in hospitality, with photographers, bakers and DJs already on board. Plus, imagine how gorgeous your wedding photos will be with the wide, open sea as a backdrop!

"This is a type of wedding that can fit anybody. People are ready to sail [again], they're ready to cruise, and they've waited a while to get married," due to COVID-19, says Liz Bernal, a travel planner who helps couples arrange their cruise weddings on behalf of Celebrity Cruises . "It's not just couples getting married for the first time, [and] not just second or third marriages."

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If you're leaning toward swapping wedding vows on a cruise, know that cruise weddings aren't all "Love Boat"-inspired glamour. You'll need to make decisions around where to get married (at sea or in port) and understand how those choices affect your guest list, risk of cancellation and the legality of the ceremony. Perhaps the biggest question is whether you want friends and family sailing with you on your honeymoon.

Before you say "I do" to a cruise ship wedding, take some time to school yourself on the fine print and important decisions you'll need to make.

Should I get married on board or in port?

One of the first decisions couples need to make is whether to schedule their nuptials for embarkation day, at sea or in a port of call.

"We find most weddings are celebrated on board during embarkation day. This allows attendees who aren't sailing with the couple to visit the ship for the ceremony," says Matt Lupoli, of Carnival Cruise Line media relations. This option allows you to not only invite friends and family to your wedding but also enjoy a private honeymoon — without your mother-in-law or best man tagging along.

Another popular option is to get married while the ship's at sea. This is a fantastic option because you won't have the time pressure of embarkation day, nor will you have to give up any fun activities or beach time in port. Princess Cruises reports that 75% of its weddings are at sea.

One drawback of an at-sea wedding is that you may be forced to host events indoors because of high winds, rain or limited deck space, and the hours to rent a specific venue have to mesh with the ship's other programming needs -- including other weddings. Plus, if you want guests at your ceremony, they will need to book and pay for the entire cruise (or you'll have to pony up for their cabins).

With an at-sea wedding, you can ask the ship's captain to marry you, a perk only available on a few cruise lines (Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises , Cunard and Royal Caribbean , for example) when sailing in international waters. Your photos will look amazing, but buyer beware: Unless the captain is also a judge, notary public, justice of the peace or minister, your at-sea nuptials will be a symbolic, not a legal, wedding.

Related: 5 best honeymoon cruises for newlywed bliss

The final option is to get married at a cruise line's private island or during a port stop in another country. About 5%-10% of Princess Cruises' weddings are in port. For local flavor, you might be able to weave in reggae music in the background while in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, or gift guests leis in Honolulu. The drawback is that you can't control all of your surroundings; for example, the ceremony might be on a public beach.

One thing's for sure: The Caribbean's sunny ports are as popular as ever for a wedding ceremony.

"We're starting to see more weddings on the islands, whether their whole group is sailing with them or meeting them there," says Bernal.

Is getting married on a cruise ship legal?

The short answer is yes, in most cases. But you do need to get your paperwork in order before the wedding day.

If you're getting married on embarkation day at a domestic port such as Miami, Seattle, New Orleans or Fort Lauderdale, you can bring your own officiant to conduct a legal wedding, the same as you would at any land-based wedding venue. If your ceremony will take place during the cruise, either a local notary public (for ports in the U.S.) or a nondenominational officiant (international ports) will preside over the ceremony, making the wedding legal.

Don't worry — you don't have to find an available officiant in Jamaica or the Bahamas. The cruise line's wedding planners will do it for you. For example, all three of Princess Cruises' wedding packages include either a legal ceremony by the captain or one performed by a local officiant in port.

However, at-sea weddings on lines other than Princess get tricky: When a ship is sailing, it's in international waters, yet the ship is registered to a particular country. For example, Celebrity Cruises requires you to obtain a marriage license from Malta, as that's where its ships are registered. A notary public or religious officiant is always provided with any cruise line's wedding package.

Once you have an officiant, what about marriage licenses? Each country has its own requirements for in-port and at-sea weddings, and the cruise line's weddings department will assist in obtaining the information and, ultimately, the license. For example, if you want to get married while the ship is in the Bahamas, you need to first obtain a marriage license from that country, a process that can take up to 90 days. To get married in a U.S. port, you only need a marriage license from that state.

How big can a cruise wedding be?

Cruise weddings can range in size, though cruise lines do limit numbers. In many cases, the size of the venue restricts the number of guests allowed. The maximum size for a cruise wedding is about 150 guests.

According to Princess Cruises, two-thirds of its weddings have fewer than 10 people in the group and the average size of larger weddings is 25, with about two weddings each year with 40 or more guests. As the cruise line returned to service after the COVID-19 pandemic began, it reported that smaller, more intimate ceremonies were becoming more popular. Being married at sea by the captain is still, by far, the most sought-after package, says Princess Cruises.

Carnival's weddings run larger. "The average number of guests is about 40, but we host weddings of all sizes — from only the couples themselves to very large parties," said Lupoli. Celebrity Cruises has also started to see more larger cruise weddings post-pandemic.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Can I invite guests who won't be sailing with us?

Beyond total guest numbers, each cruise line has strict rules about how many non-sailing guests can attend your embarkation-day wedding. For example, Royal Caribbean allows a maximum of 75 wedding guests (out of 150 total) to be day visitors who come for the shipboard ceremony and then leave before the ship sets sail.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it's not as easy for non-sailing guests to come onboard as before. They may need to submit their vaccination card or negative COVID-19 test results. You'll need to make these rules clear to your attendees and know that they can change between when you book the cruise wedding and the big day itself.

Shoreside ceremonies — in a port of call on the ship's itinerary — also welcome non-sailing guests but have capacity limits. The available venues can only fit so many people. This option is trickier, however, because you are only in port for one day, most likely. What if your aunt's flight into the port is delayed? She will miss the wedding altogether.

Even so, Bernal is seeing more of this in the Caribbean. "They'll jump on the flight to the island and meet the couple and then stay on the island for a few days," she says. "You can have non-guests in ports of call come on the ship but usually the couple comes off the ship to get married on the beach."

"The norm [for in-port weddings] is to sail with the whole group," she says, rather than have guests fly in for the ceremony.

Which cruise lines offer weddings, and which should I pick?

Name a popular cruise line and chances are you can get married on one of its ships. Viking is a notable exception that does not offer weddings.

Your best bet is to choose a ship whose personality and amenities match your preferences. But a few lines stand out for their wedding offerings.

Princess Cruises was the first cruise line to offer legal marriages at sea by the captain.

Princess Cruises' three packages (At Sea Wedding Cruise, Harborside Wedding Cruise and Ashore Wedding Cruise) fold in all the details for a flat fee and also offer a registry so that guests can help amp up the luxuries on their honeymoon at sea. Guests and friends can gift shore excursion credits, specialty-dining experiences, spa treatments and a private breakfast or dinner on the balcony. Celebrity Cruises also offers legal weddings at sea by the captain .

Royal Caribbean's and MSC Cruises' family-friendly onboard amenities, such as waterslides and large kids clubs, are a huge hit for couples planning to invite guests of all ages. Royal Caribbean offers four packages for weddings at sea with sailing guests, embarkation-day ceremonies with sailing and non-sailing guests, portside events around the world and elopements with just the couple or up to 10 guests.

Just like its parks, Disney offers Fairy Tale Weddings on its ships . Disney Cruise Line offers six venues, including indoor and outdoor spots on its ships (accommodating up to 40 guests) and on Castaway Cay (the line's private island in the Bahamas, which can host up to 100 guests). You can have costumed Mickey and Minnie join you for photos or offer a Dole Whip unity ceremony, as one couple did .

Windstar Cruises ' yacht-style smaller ships entice many couples planning a cruise elopement , with either just them or only a few guests. Many couples like the upscale yet low-key feeling of getting away on their own yacht, where entertainment focuses on fine dining, relaxing on deck and exploring in port, rather than running around to shows, rock climbing walls and other crazy big-ship attractions.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for romance

What are examples of cruise wedding packages?

Exact wedding package inclusions depend on the cruise line you're sailing, whether you're getting married at sea or in port, and the level of package you choose.

Wedding coordinators and event managers for cruise lines — included with all packages — make the decision-making easy. They'll help you nail down specifics in advance so you can have a relaxing time on board. There are also third-party travel planners specializing in cruise weddings, such as The Wedding Experience , the exclusive wedding service provider for Celebrity Cruises, Windstar Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.

To give you a general idea, most cruise wedding packages are going to include a dedicated, private venue for the ceremony, a photographer, floral arrangements and a private space for the reception, whether it's a simple cake-cutting event or a plated meal. Some will also include Champagne to toast the couple.

Examples of extra-fee add-ons include videography, photography or live entertainment at the ceremony or reception (Carnival Cruises charges $150-plus for some tunes to accompany your celebration).

"We start with a package and design your ceremony to be just for you," says Bernal. "There's so many possibilities."

Bernal says one couple arranged a fireworks show off the coast of Puerto Rico and worked with Celebrity Cruises to stop the ship in the middle of the ocean for the best view. It's becoming more popular for couples to host a series of events on board the ship during the wedding week, says Bernal. Previously, couples have organized a whiskey tasting for the guys; afternoon tea for the girls; bachelorette parties at a ship's bar, club or lounge; or a private dinner in an onboard restaurant for guests the day after the wedding. All of these can be arranged by the ship staff.

How much does a cruise wedding cost?

The average price for a cruise wedding falls between $7,000 and $20,000, according to GroupTravel.org , a sliver of what a land wedding normally costs (an average of $30,000). Your specific cost will depend on which cruise wedding package you choose and which inclusions and add-ons you select.

On the more casual and festive end, Carnival Cruise Line weddings start at $1,499; MSC Cruises' weddings cost roughly the same. On the luxe end, Cunard's Royal Ceremony at Sea package starts at $3,300. Of course, you will still need to pay for your own cruise fare, on top of the wedding package rates, as do your guests.

The good news is that with these all-inclusive packages, you know exactly how much your at-sea wedding will cost from the beginning.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge for a suite on a cruise

How far out should I book my wedding date?

If your goal is to make guests happy, the further out you book, the better access they have to cabin categories and locations, as well as flights. This also goes for pricing. Sailings and flights booked months out are often cheaper. Use those save-the-date mailings to your guests wisely and provide them with as much information as possible.

Plus, cruise ships have limited spots for weddings each week. For example, as of July, Royal Caribbean is fully sold-out for 2022 weddings and is not accepting bookings for additional nuptials this year.

The caveat, however, is that the further in advance you book, you run a risk of change or cancellation as ships are known to swap itineraries or take ships out of service. In other words, don't play up Aruba or a specific ship — all your guests need to know early on is that it's a Caribbean sailing.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

Bottom line

If you don't like being the center of attention, then a cruise wedding may not be for you. Everyone on board and in port is going to ooh and aah at you as you sashay by in your wedding finery. This type of ceremony is also not ideal for couples who want to invite hundreds of guests or want the flexibility to select the perfect caterer, photographer, cake, florist or musicians.

On the other hand, if you want to plan a simple, stress-free wedding, it doesn't get much easier than this. Cruise weddings are ideal for couples who want a small event and love the one-stop shopping of having all the event details taken care of by the cruise line.

Which brings us to the honeymoon. Many couples use the sailing as their honeymoon — yet another aspect of the wedding you won't need to plan. But if your guests are joining the sailing, your romantic getaway may not be very private. If you want family and friends to attend your at-sea wedding, consider whether you can sneak away when needed without hurting anyone's feelings.

If you can't stand the thought of sharing a romantic vacation with your extended family, consider an embarkation-day wedding and bid your guests goodbye after the reception. The trade-off is your pierside event might not be as scenic as an onboard ceremony with expansive sea views.

Ultimately, if you're a person who wants a hassle-free wedding, with a one-stop shop for planning and a built-in honeymoon, then swapping vows ashore, in port or at sea might just be your dream affair.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Cruise Weddings: Everything You Need to Know

Getting married on a cruise is a one-of-a-kind experience. If you're considering having a cruise wedding, here is essential info to help you with the cruise wedding process.

We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.

That First Moment

If you’re considering getting married abroad but can’t decide on a single location for your big day, you may want to consider a cruise wedding. Getting married on a cruise allows you and your guests to visit multiple destinations and easily stay close to one another—plus you can all enjoy the amenities a cruise ship has to offer. So, is a cruise wedding right for you? We talked to Heather Marohl of Travel Pros in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Frank Armstrong of Cruise & Vacation Travel in Le Roy, Michigan, and Julie A. Miller of Unlimited Vacations & Cruises in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, to get all the details on cruise weddings.

* Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cruises are on hold for the time being. Please be sure and check local and federal guidelines before booking.

What types of couples and weddings are cruise weddings best suited for?

According to our pros, cruise weddings can work for a variety of different couples and styles. However, it’s best for those who don’t mind  letting go of the details  and keeping things simple. “From the flowers to the music, cruise weddings tend to be simple and you likely won’t have many choices to pick from, if any,” says Heather. In terms of wedding size, cruise ship weddings tend to work for  smaller guest lists —but some cruises can accommodate larger party sizes. Cruise weddings also can be ideal for couples who  don’t want any guests at all , and who want to combine their wedding or elopement with a unique honeymoon experience.

What are the cost differences between a cruise ship wedding and an “on-land” destination wedding?

“The  traditional destination wedding  is more costly, but you get a lot more options, more security—you are not at the whim of the sea—and you can have more people,” says Heather. “Cruise weddings, first you have to pay for the cruise itself, and then the wedding package. Some companies offer à la carte options, which can add up quickly. You will also have to pay for license fees, which vary by cruise line, per package, per location if you’re getting married on shore.”

How do cruise weddings work? Do couples typically get married on the ship or at a port?

It’s up to you. Some couples choose to get married on the ship before it departs, while others get married on land at a destination port. “If friends and family cannot afford to take the cruise but can be at the wedding, then having it on ship prior to sailing would be the logical choice,” says Frank. “If friends and family can go on the cruise, then there is nothing like being married in a tropical garden or on the beach in a Caribbean island.”

Can you legally get married on a cruise ship?

You’ll have to  take note of legal requirements  when it comes to getting married on a cruise ship or on land. Some countries have residency requirements, meaning you have to reside on the island for a certain period of time in order to legally marry there—not possible if you’re just making a cruise stop. Of course, you could legally marry in your home country before your cruise and have a symbolic wedding at the port. When it comes to getting married on a cruise ship, you’ll need to follow the laws of the country where the ship is registered. So you can easily marry on certain cruise lines’ ships, while there are others where you can’t. Be sure to do your research, talk to a  travel agent who specializes in weddings , and apply for licenses far in advance.

B. Jones Photography

How long of a cruise typically works best for a wedding.

If you’re planning on combining your wedding with a honeymoon, a five to seven-day cruise will likely be ideal. “If the wedding party can sail along with the couple, then the party continues for the entire cruise and that could also be a very memorable event for all,” says Frank.

Which wedding details will a cruise arrange? What is the couple responsible for?

If you’re getting married on the ship, the cruise will typically provide a  wedding coordinator  with their package. “Generally, the cruise line includes the flowers, music, photographer, and officiant (this could be the captain) in the packages, though some of these might cost extra,” says Heather. “The couple is responsible for, but not limited to, registering for their marriage license, their attire, and  the invitations .” If you’re getting married on land, you’ll be responsible for arranging all of the details—and it’s recommended to hire a planner at your wedding location to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Are there any times of year that should be avoided when it comes to cruise weddings?

“This depends on the destination of your cruise,” says Heather. “The Caribbean’s hurricane season is from June 1 through November 30, so I would avoid booking during this time period as to not have to  deal with any unpredicted storms . The Greek Islands generally close for the off-season. Alaska cruises have a particular set of dates when they allow cruises.” Frank notes that holidays and the family vacation season (summer) can be quite  expensive and crowded  and might not be the best for a cruise wedding.

What are some popular cruise locations for weddings?

The Caribbean is most popular, but again, be aware of residency requirements before booking. St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and St. Lucia tend to be popular. But don’t limit yourself to warm-weather locations! Why not try Alaska? Says Heather: “How many people can say they got married on a glacier?” There are also U.S.-based cruises, such as ones that sail along the New England and Canadian coastlines during the fall. Or for something completely different, the famed Queen Mary 2 offers weddings as it sails across the Atlantic Ocean!

Easton Studios

What are some popular cruise lines for weddings?

Many cruise lines and companies can accommodate weddings, including Princess Cruises , Disney Cruise Line , Carnival Cruise Line , Crystal Cruises , Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , and Royal Caribbean , among others. These cruise lines offer a variety of routes and price points so it’s often best to work with a travel agent to find the exact cruise that best suits your desired event.

What can go wrong with a cruise wedding?

Mother Nature pose certain problems when it comes to cruise weddings. Cruises may skip ports due to weather, which can be a risk if you’re planning a wedding on land. And as we’ve seen, cruises can be at greater risk for COVID-19 outbreaks due to the close quarters.

How should you travel with valuable wedding essentials, such as rings and attire?

If you’re hosting a cruise wedding, it’s important to think about how you’ll be transporting your valuable items, such as your rings, attire, and more . When it comes to these items, it’s essential to have them close by at all times—do not check valuable items and do not showcase them out in the open. You might also want to bring a steamer on your trip to ensure that you can straighten out any attire that may become wrinkled in transport.

Related WeddingWire Articles

10 Best Cruise Lines for Weddings

A cruise wedding combines one of the most important days of your life with exciting travel destinations, plenty of entertainment and an array of things to eat, do and drink. Most major cruise lines offer a variety of services to help you plan your wedding, and options range from onboard wedding ceremonies to weddings before you embark, on top of a glacier or on a sandy beach. Even better? Cruise ship weddings come with a built-in honeymoon.

But before you start planning, let's start with the basics: What does a cruise ship wedding cost? They start around $1,500 (plus the cruise costs) for Carnival’s Intimate Gold wedding package. From there, prices climb depending on the line you choose and what you add on to your ceremony.

Read on for Cruise Critic's 10 favorite cruise lines for weddings. They offer a variety of options and price points for most travelers planning a cruise wedding.

1. Disney Cruise Line

Why Choose Disney for a Cruise Wedding?

A Disney Cruise wedding is perhaps the ultimate fantasy-made-reality ceremony, depending on your tastes (of course). It's also a great option for anyone whose wedding party includes children as well as those entering blended marriages with young kids. Disney's ships are already some of the most well-liked in the world, with large rooms and plenty of on-brand entertainment. Additionally, Disney offers a low-stress, low-hassle package that -- while not cheap -- certainly delivers on bringing fairytales to life.

Disney Cruise Wedding Package Details:

Disney Cruise's Fairy Tale Weddings are available on all of the line’s ships. Packages start at $3,500 and include fresh floral options for the couple, the services of a Disney cruise wedding coordinator and officiant, a solo musician (typically a pianist), Champagne toast, an elegant wedding cake with keepsake topper, a commemorative Disney wedding certificate, onboard credit for the wedding couple and dinner at Palo, the line's adults-only alternative restaurant, found on all Disney ships. The package can accommodate eight guests, plus the couple.

Coolest Perk of a Disney Cruise Wedding:

Dress-steaming is included in the Disney wedding package price. We also love that you can opt for an upgraded ceremony on Castaway Cay , Disney's private Bahamian island, for an extra charge.

Disney Cruise Wedding Caveat:

DIsney's wedding package can be pricey when you start adding upgrades. Beyond the cake and Champagne, a reception or other services for wedding guests isn't included, though you can add an appetizer-and-open-bar reception for an additional cost. You can also invite additional guests to your wedding ceremony, but events with more than 10 guests will also incur an extra cost.

Note that, if the couple gets married onboard, the captain or a ship officer will preside over the ceremony. Disney Cruise Line weddings do not include the marriage license, so the couple is responsible for providing any necessary legal documentation. If the wedding occurs on Castaway Cay, the ceremony will be performed by a Bahamian official, but it is not a legal marriage; the couple will need to already be legally married before the ship departs the U.S.

Related: 9 Things to Know When Planning a Cruise Wedding

2. Celebrity Cruises Wedding

Why Choose a Celebrity Cruise Wedding?

Weddings on Celebrity cruises include the option to have the captain perform either a legal or symbolic ceremony at sea -- including legal same-sex weddings -- under the line’s Malta registration. The line's fleet of ships offers a pleasant mix of fun and luxury, leaving the happy couple and their guests with plenty to do before and after the big day. Celebrity's newest ships are also upping the luxury factor on their Edge Class ships, with The Retreat -- an exclusive suite-only complex with its own deck, pool, and dining option.

Celebrity Cruise Wedding Package Details:

The Celebrity Weddings program offers onboard ceremonies and destination weddings and are some of the most reasonably priced on this list for couples who don't necessarily need a huge list of bells and whistles. Shipboard packages begin at $1,495 and include a captain-led ceremony (at sea only), an event coordinator's services, recorded music, one hour of photography (photographs sold separately), cake for two, a bottle of Champagne, flowers for the couple, and a keepsake wedding album. Shoreside weddings start at $1,895 and in-port weddings are pricier, including all of the same features plus roundtrip taxi transportation to the ceremony site for the couple.

Coolest Perk of a Celebrity Cruise Wedding:

Celebrity is known for its Deck Weddings onboard the ship, featuring a flowing, white, draped canopy for a ceremony perched above the water. This will cost extra

Celebrity Cruise Wedding Caveat:

Licensing and regulatory fees are not included in Celebrity's base wedding package prices. A license for a legal wedding at sea is $750, for instance. Also, the number of wedding ceremonies performed on each sailing is based on the captain's availability. Couples should book their wedding packages in advance to allow time for the processing of marriage licenses and legal documents; for legal ceremonies at sea, all documentation should be completed and submitted about 10 weeks prior to sailing.

3. Carnival Cruise Weddings

Why Choose Carnival for a Cruise Wedding?

Carnival cruise weddings appeal to younger couples thanks to the line's famous amenities and spirited, party-friendly atmosphere. It's also one of the least expensive cruise wedding options on this list. Carnival Spirit , Carnival Pride , Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle have onboard chapels, though you can buy Carnival's wedding packages on any of the ships in the fleet, with venues assigned according to the number of guests and the reception options chosen.

Carnival Wedding Package Details

Carnival offers three categories of wedding packages: Intimate, for weddings with 10 or fewer guests (including the couple); Grand, for 11 guests and up; and Classic, which includes the ceremony and reception packages for a minimum of 20 guests (including the couple). Even the most basic Carnival small wedding packages include the services of a personal wedding planner, a wedding coordinator, a private shipboard ceremony venue, priority check-in (for embarkation-day weddings), a nondenominational officiant, a bottle of sparkling wine, a tiered wedding cake, recorded wedding music, ceremony decor, a honeymoon dinner for the couple and the services of a photographer (prints are extra).

Add-ons cover additional decorations, a mimosa breakfast, silk flowers for the couple, massages, sparkling wine upgrades, larger cakes, and cake toppers. All Carnival wedding packages can be arranged to take place on embarkation day, onboard the ship in a port of call, off the ship in a port of call and onboard while at sea (symbolic only).

Coolest Perk of a Carnival Cruise Wedding:

We like the free and easy-to-use online gift registry that makes it simple for guests to contribute to the couple's destination wedding. It provides couples with a wedding website, blog, email wizard, photo album and tools to upload to social media.

Carnival Cruise Wedding Caveat:

Plan ahead. Weddings in port are available on Carnival cruise ships only in select ports (including embarkation ports), and there's a limit to how many weddings can take place on the same day. A maximum of 50 non-sailing guests may attend a wedding on the ship. Surcharges (ranging from $100 to $200) may apply for ceremonies during popular seasons, including Thanksgiving, winter holidays, Valentine's week and all of May and June.

4. Princess Cruises Weddings

Why Choose Princess for a Cruise Wedding?

Princess is a prime choice for cruise weddings because, of all the lines offering shipboard nuptials, it provides one of the best combinations of features, services and facilities. Princess' Tie the Knot packages are available on all ships, and most ships have dedicated wedding chapels.

Princess Cruises Wedding Package Details:

Princess offers three wedding packages, all named Tie the Knot and priced similarly depending on your wedding needs, and starting at $2,000.

The Tie the Knot at Sea package includes use of the onboard wedding chapel or other select ship venue, a ceremony officiated by the captain, a wedding coordinator, live music, two floral arrangements, wedding bouquets or boutonnieres for the couple, the services of a photographer and a selection of prints, wedding cake, bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine and two keepsake flutes, a commemorative wedding certificate, chocolate-covered strawberries, deluxe breakfast for two, dinner for the couple at a specialty restaurant and rose petals on the bed at turn-down.

In addition to the above benefits, you'll score priority check-in and boarding for the couple and guests with the Tie the Knot Harborside package, which includes a service in port before embarkation. Alternatively, Princess Cruises' Tie the Knot Ashore package includes a ceremony at a beach or garden (or even at a glacier in Alaska) and transportation for the couple in addition to the standard services of a Tie the Knot ceremony. Note that receptions, photography packages and enhanced ceremony options are available at extra cost on Princess Cruises.

Coolest Perk of a Princess Cruise Wedding:

Not only can your ceremony be conducted at sea by your Princess ship's captain, but the line also features state-of-the-art technology that allows you to broadcast the ceremony live, via webcam, to friends and family on land. Some Princess captains are pretty romantic. On one particular cruise over Valentine's Day, the captain casually announced he'd conduct vow renewals for anyone who wanted them, and about a half-dozen couples showed up.

Princess Cruise Wedding Caveat:

Keep in mind that licensing fees for a Princess cruise wedding can add up to an additional $500 to any selected wedding package. There may also be surcharges for weddings held during busy peak season or holiday travel periods.

Related: Renewing Your Vows At Sea

5. Norwegian Cruise Line Weddings

Why Choose a Norwegian Wedding at Sea?

Norwegian Cruise (NCL) weddings come in a vast array of options, which can turn basic packages into full-blown extravaganzas. Its ships also feature a wide range of specialty restaurants for easy romantic dining for two. NCL also offers legal same-sex ceremonies, available in destinations where same-sex marriages are recognized by local law.

NCL Wedding Package Details:

Norwegian offers four wedding packages that start at around $2,000. Its Wedding at Sea ceremony, priced from $3,099, is performed onboard while at sea and officiated by the ship captain on Breakaway , Getaway , Epic , Escape and Bliss . This package includes flowers for the couple; a cake; recorded music; Champagne toast; one bottle each of sparkling wine, house wine and prosecco; chocolate-covered strawberries; canapes delivered to the stateroom; one hour of photography service (prints are extra); and dinner for two in Norwegian's fine-dining French restaurant, Le Bistro. Norwegian's Wedding at Sea package also includes a group service coordinator, who can make dinner reservations, organize group seating at shows and otherwise assist the couple and their guests, in addition to overseeing the wedding. Marriage certificates will be issued by the Bahamas (additional fee).

The most basic (and cheapest) package is Norwegian's Symbolic at Sea option, while a Harborside package allows couples to be married onboard at select ports of call. Packages are available in a wide range of ports in the U.S. (including Alaska and Hawaii), Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Caribbean and Bermuda. This package adds priority embarkation for the couple and their guests (if the wedding is on embarkation day).

Destination weddings through NCL vary in price according to port, but start at $3,495, and offer a range of exotic onshore locations to hold nuptials: a glacier in Alaska, a bay in St. Thomas, the sands of Bermuda and more. It adds round trip transportation for the bride and groom to the wedding location in port.

Marriage licenses are extra in all cases, and prices vary depending on local authorities.

In addition to the basic packages, there is a huge range of a la carte options, including spa and beauty services (not available on embarkation day), flowers (including custom orders), live music and a wide variety of wedding receptions -- from cold hors d'oeuvres with an open bar to a full sit-down luncheon for a minimum of 25 guests.

Coolest Perk of a Norwegian Cruise Wedding:

Couples getting married on a Norwegian cruise can add a conch shell aisle or fresh rose arch to shoreside ceremonies for extra charges.

Norwegian Cruise Wedding Caveat:

If you're holding anything more than an intimate wedding on a Norwegian cruise, you'll be charged an extra fee for an additional wedding coordinator for every 25 guests beyond the first 25.

6. Royal Caribbean Cruise Weddings

Why Choose Royal Caribbean for a Cruise Wedding?

Among the choices for Royal Caribbean wedding packages, you have an option to get married at sea, with your ship's captain or first officer officiating a ceremony that includes special nautical vows. There are three packages to choose from, including a small-scale ceremony option, though prices for the larger packages are on par with Disney Cruise Line. Also like Disney, a reception is not included in Royal Caribbean's wedding package prices.

Royal Caribbean weddings are great for multi-generational weddings, where kids, teens, adults and mature guests will all be attending. There is always a huge range of entertainment, dining, drinking and relaxing options on board even the smallest Royal Caribbean ship, making it easy to keep guests happy before and after the wedding itself.

Royal Caribbean Wedding Package Details:

The line offers three different ways to tie the knot on board. The most basic and intimate wedding option with Royal Caribbean is the Intimately Yours package, which allows the couple to get married onboard while the ship is sailing, with up to 10 guests. The package, starting at $1,950, features the services of a wedding planner and coordinator, onboard ceremony with a nondenominational officiant, a photographer (prints are extra), recorded music, a three-tier wedding cake, dinner for two at a specialty restaurant, chocolate-covered strawberries and a mimosa-accompanied breakfast-in-bed for the couple in their decorated stateroom, a bottle of Champagne and a keepsake wedding certificate

A Vows at Sea package starts at $3,850 includes up to 50 guests and use of a private onboard wedding venue while the ship is at sea. The Embark on Romance option, from $5,600, lets the couple get married onboard the ship while it's in port on embarkation day, allowing non-sailing guests to participate in the ceremony before the ship departs. This package includes the same services above and covers up to 50 people, but adds priority check-in and a pier-to-ship escort for the couple and their guests. Note that there is a $250 surcharge for every additional 25 guests as well as other related charges (see our caveat below).

There is also one wedding package available to get hitched ashore: the "Destination I Do" offering, starting at $4,650 (for up to 50 guests). Couples can choose from a destination in port (or opt to stay on the ship while it's docked there) in locations like Antigua, Bermuda and Florida; or at the line’s private island retreat -- appropriately named for a wedding venue -- Perfect Day at CocoCay. This Royal Caribbean wedding package includes local transportation for the bride and groom, a bouquet and boutonniere, and a cake for two. The services of an officiant, wedding planner and coordinator, a bottle of sparkling wine and keepsake wedding certificate are also included.

Note that the cost for in-port marriage licenses vary by destination, from $200 to $700; a shipboard marriage license costs $900. Additional services for floral arrangements, live music and photography can be arranged at an additional cost.

Receptions are not included in the price of the ceremonies, but several add-on options are available, ranging from open bars and hors d'oeuvre to sit-down lunch and buffet meal service.

Coolest Perk of a Royal Caribbean Wedding:

Royal Caribbean's shoreside ceremonies run the gamut from simply scenic (a beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico ) and bespoke (a winery in Santorini, Greece ) to bucket-list affairs (like a ceremony atop a glacier in Juneau, Alaska ).

Royal Caribbean Wedding Caveat:

Watch out for a la carte charges that can add up on Royal Caribbean. For instance, couples who want to plan a wedding less than 90 days from sailing pay a fee that varies based on the package chosen. Note, too, that wedding parties of more than 50 guests require an additional wedding coordinator for an additional fee. Beyond that, an additional surcharge applies to weddings and vow renewals scheduled in May, June, September and October. Holidays -- such as New Year's Day, Valentine's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve -- are also subject to higher rates.

7. P&O Cruise Weddings

Why Choose a P&O Cruise Wedding?

Planning a wedding on P&O Cruises means first selecting the right ship for your needs. Not all of P&O's ships cater to the same clientele and some don't allow children (which can be a plus for some couples). With that in mind, it's important to know your guest list (or at least the age restrictions of your wedding) before you book. Aurora and Arcadia are child-free (nobody younger than 18 is allowed onboard), while Azura , Brittania , and Ventura allow children.

P&O Cruise Wedding Package Details:

Wedding packages start around $2,100 for a ceremony without guests and go higher for up to 10 guests. The cost includes the venue, ceremony conducted by the ship's captain (a civil service legally recognized under Bermudian law), floral arrangements, music, a tiered cake, a commemorative certificate, Champagne, an onboard wedding coordinator, and breakfast in bed.

Coolest Perk of P&O Cruise Weddings:

Pressing of the couple’s attire and complementary hair and makeup for the bride are a nice addition to both packages on P&O cruises.

P&O Cruise Wedding Caveat:

A hefty marriage license fee is required for couples marrying onboard Azure, Ventura, Arcadia and Aurora. Additionally, the per-person costs of a wedding aboard P&O cruises is a bit steep compared to other entries on this list.

8. Holland America Line Cruise Weddings

Why Choose a Holland America Cruise Wedding?

Holland America (HAL) weddings are available on a variety of ships and itineraries worldwide. Packages include extra amenities when a minimum number of staterooms are booked for guests and you'll find cool in-port wedding offerings, including glacier ceremonies in Juneau. The line caters to a mature clientele, making it attractive to older couples looking to wed. Almost all of Holland America's ships have dedicated chapels.

Holland America Wedding Package Details:

Weddings start at $1,800 for HAL's onboard At Sea Symbolic ceremony with up to eight guests on all sailings. That price includes an onsite wedding coordinator, a ship officer to perform the ceremony, flowers for the couple, a bottle of sparkling wine, a small wedding cake, a commemorative photo album, recorded music and a keepsake wedding certificate.

The line also has two additional wedding packages with increasingly stepped-up amenities for either legal or symbolic ceremonies at select ports in North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The Anchors Away Harborside package, starting at $2,000, adds priority check-in for the couple and their guests, and photography services.

The Ashore package comes in a wide range of price points depending on your destination of choice. At the lower end of the spectrum are weddings on HAL's private island, Half Moon Cay. Pricier options include Sydney and Santorini.

The Coolest Perk of a HAL Cruise Wedding:

Holland America offers special wedding extras when at least eight staterooms are booked for an At Sea Symbolic or Anchors Away Harborside wedding through its Group Advantage Program. The bride and groom get a free stateroom upgrade for 16 guests. The entire group receives lunch at Pinnacle Grill (Holland America's upscale alternative restaurant), a private wine tasting and chocolate-covered strawberries, plus a bottle of in-room Champagne.

Holland America Cruise Wedding Caveat:

Expect surcharges for the following dates: December 24 to January 4, February 11 to February 18 and all of May and June.

9. Cunard Line Cruise Weddings

Why Choose a Cunard Cruise Wedding?

Cunard can offer you a Royal Ceremony at Sea on board the majority of its voyages and on any of its ships. Couples are drawn to the line's historic charm, formality and British influence, all of which make for a timeless experience. If it's classic romance you're after, a Cunard cruise wedding is probably the right choice for you.

Cunard Cruise Wedding Package Details;

The line's at-sea wedding package is one of the pricier base rates on this list, starting at $3,300. It includes a choice of ceremony venue, a ceremony officiated by the captain, priority check-in (and disembarkation for the bridal couple), an onboard wedding coordinator, two floral arrangements for the ceremony, traditional wedding music (recorded, although live music such as a pianist, harpist or string quartet is available for a fee), commemorative wedding certificate, a bottle of Champagne, couple’s breakfast in bed, and dinner for two in the ship’s steakhouse.

Reception packages for lunch or dinner service can be arranged at onboard dining venues like The Verandah, Todd English or Britannia, depending on the ship. There are additional possibilities for canapes and cocktail receptions, too.

Coolest Perk of a Cunard Cruise Wedding:

Wedding packages on Cunard include some above-and-beyond extras, like a White Star Bellman to escort the bride to the ceremonial room and pressing service for bridal outfits.

Cunard Cruise Wedding Caveat:

Weddings can only take place on sea days and on cruises lasting at least seven nights. There are only two time slots available for ceremonies daily (late morning and mid-afternoon). Wedding parties with more than 20 guests are limited to the morning slot. Additional cake, flowers and photography services are available for a fee. The marriage license is not included and the fee is one of the highest out there.

10. MSC Cruise Weddings

Why Choose an MSC Cruise Wedding?

MSC weddings allow couples sailing in the Caribbean to legally tie the knot onboard or ashore with its wedding packages. Couples aren't required to be married before the sailing, nor do they have to worry about bringing legal documents onboard.

MSC Cruise Wedding Package Details:

There are four MSC wedding packages: Classic, Romantic, Deluxe, and an Ocean Cay Celebration. The Classic option includes a pre-cruise wedding consultant, recorded music, flowers for the couple, a symbolic certificate signed by the captain, cake and Champagne toasts for up to 6 guests, and stateroom decorations, as well as one hour of photography.

The Romantic and Deluxe packages add additional photography services, a larger cake, specialty dinner, and even pre-wedding salon services for the couple. An MSC wedding on Ocean Cay features a blend of the three onboard packages, with a ceremony taking place in the wedding pavilion adorned with flowers on the line’s private island.

Couples can customize either package by upgrading with photography and videography services, music, fresh flowers, food and beverages, specialty items such as favors and aisle runners, transportation for shoreside events, and personalized stationery for announcements and invitations.

Coolest Perk of an MSC Cruise Wedding:

For a wedding photo to remember, couples can opt to have their pictures snapped on MSC's dazzling Swarovski crystal-encrusted staircases.

MSC Cruise Wedding Caveat:

MSC's North America-based ships offer only symbolic onboard wedding ceremonies.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

'Definitely get married on a cruise ship': The weddings take less planning than on land

• Carnival Cruise Line performed 2,200 weddings and vow renewals in 2019.
• There's less planning involved on the part of the marrying couple for a cruise ship wedding.
• The cost of a wedding and cruise combination can vary, just like a wedding on land.

Like so many others, Tom Hayes and Jimmy Isaacs had to push back their wedding because of COVID-19. But unlike most couples, the London-based pair's wedding didn't take place at a typical venue. Instead, they were wed on a cruise ship.

Hayes told USA TODAY that he's been on around 20 cruises – and that when he and Isaacs started seeing each other, he turned his other half into a cruise addict, too.

"Naturally, when Jimmy proposed to me in June 2019 we both immediately knew we wanted to get married at sea," Hayes said. "We had planned to marry aboard Norwegian Epic, sailing out of Barcelona in April 2021."

The couple married April 18 on the same ship with 27 of their loved ones. 

While it's not the most common destination for a wedding, marriages are performed on cruise ships fairly often.

Learn more: Best wedding loans

HOW MUCH TO SPEND: The 'appropriate' range of a wedding gift can vary

Royal Caribbean International, for example, hosts around 1,000 weddings each year, Celia De La Llama, a spokesperson for the line, told USA TODAY. 

And Michele Andjel, spokesperson for P&O Cruises and Cunard, Carnival Corporation's UK brands, told USA TODAY that on annual average, P&O Cruises hosts more than 500 weddings and Cunard more than 100.

Holland America Line carried out 27 weddings in 2019, the last "typical year" before the pandemic, spokesperson Erik Elvejord said. This year, Holland America already has 20 weddings "on the books."

In the same year, Carnival Cruise Line did 2,200 weddings and vow renewals, Matt Lupoli, Carnival spokesperson, said.

HERE'S HOW COUPLES CAN CUT COSTS: Many 2022 weddings are over budget thanks to inflation

FROM DOORDASH TO EGG DONATIONS: Couples putting in extra work to pay off 2022 wedding costs

Why get married on a cruise ship?

Macy Reeves married her husband on Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Sunrise ship on Feb. 8, 2020. They chose to get married at sea because of the size of her family, she said. 

"I couldn't afford to invite everyone to the wedding (it would've been more than 300 people) so a cruise wedding fixed that because I could invite as many sailing guests as I wanted and I was limited to 30 nonsailing guests," Reeves explained.

That means that anyone who booked a sailing on the ship could come to the wedding and an additional 30 could come onboard for the wedding and leave afterward.

"It worked out perfect," she said. "We had a five-day honeymoon cruise with our friends and family."

Just over a decade ago, Sharine and Dana Grayson-Thomas, frequent cruisers, got married on the Norwegian Jewel before it departed from New York City.

They made the decision to wed on a ship after already booking a venue, DJ, flowers, cake and more for a land-based wedding in Connecticut, Sharine told USA TODAY in July while the couple was celebrating their 10th anniversary on Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas.

While planning, the Grayson-Thomases found themselves asking "will the guests like this?" And realized that they'd planned a celebration that wasn't for them at all.

"We were like, 'this is not us,'" Sharine said. "We were trying to plan for everyone else to enjoy."

So they changed course, cut their guest list from 200 to 60, and booked their wedding with Norwegian Cruise Line, which, at the time, Dana said was the only cruise line to offer same-sex wedding ceremonies.

What's it like to get married on a cruise ship?

Reeves boarded the ship at 10 a.m. on her wedding day and the event began around noon.

Before the ceremony, guests could spend the time as they pleased on the ship – drinking, eating, playing mini-golf – while Reeves readied herself. Then, they had a 12-minute ceremony before an onboard reception with dancing, drinks, dining and toasts before nonsailing guests disembarked.

While the ceremony and reception were shorter than land-side commemorations, the full celebration was longer.

"Other cruise guests saw us in our wedding attire and congratulated us," she said. "People bought us drinks when (we were) out on the boat. We participated in a wedding show onboard the boat. It was just a big party for five days instead of a one-day celebration with family and friends how most weddings are."

Sharine and Dana Grayson-Thomas boarded with their 60 guests before the rest of the passengers at 10:30 a.m.

They had a "circle of love" ceremony in one of the lounges with special purple, pink and fuchsia touches featuring silk flowers – you can't bring live flowers onto a cruise ship, they explained.

After the wedding ended, the newlyweds started their vacation with 14 of their loved ones, including their children.

How it works for wedding guests

Similar to a destination wedding, a cruise wedding offers guests the opportunity to become passengers and to stay for a vacation. And that is taken into account during the planning process.

"It was important to us that we chose a sailing that offered both a short (three-night) and long (seven-night) option so that our guests could stay for as short or as long as they wished – and this itinerary really fit the spec," Hayes explained.

But, depending on the situation, invited guests don't always have to remain on board after the wedding in order to attend.

Reeves had 30 "nonsailing" guests come onboard for the ceremony while the ship was docked in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. They stayed for the ceremony and a reception before disembarking.

Like Reeves, the Grayson-Thomases had some guests that disembarked after the wedding. After checking out the ship while waiting for the ceremony to begin, they said some of their guests had regrets about not sticking around for a vacation.

How much does it cost?

Like a wedding shoreside, the cost of the experience can vary.

For Hayes and Isaacs, the wedding aspect itself cost the London-based couple around £1000, or $1300. The actual cruise cost more. 

"We're on for seven nights and are in a Spa Suite – spoiling ourselves – so it's £2,600 ($3,410) for the two of us," Hayes said. "But some of our guests are doing three nights and in an inside cabin at £400 ($520) per person."

Reeves, who got married on a Carnival Cruise Line ship, said they spent around $4,000 on the ceremony and reception onboard and a "grand total" of $10,000 on the entire experience including her dress, the rehearsal dinner, the cruise, photographer, ceremony – the whole nine yards.

As of April 2022, the starting price to have a wedding on a Carnival  ship is $1,499 with up to 10 guests including the couple, a two-tier cake and a few other amenities. Cost increases from there. However, the cruise line is not currently booking new reservations for weddings or vow renewals, according to its website .

The Grayson-Thomases' 2011 wedding cost around $17,000, Sharine estimated – that covered the cost of the cruise for the couple, their children and the wedding itself. Dana commented that they saved a great deal of money by getting married at sea.

For reference, a wedding in the U.S. cost around $34,000 total on average in 2021, according to The Knot.  The ceremony and reception portion cost $28,000 on average.

How does planning work?

Getting married on a cruise ship entails minimal work on the part of the couple, according to Hayes.

"There's less to do," he said. "No negotiating with multiple suppliers – the florist, the venue, the band, the caterers, the drivers, the hotel, the bar staff, etc."

Instead, they were able to simply contact the Norwegian Cruise Line's special events team to communicate their desires. Norwegian also has a calendar available on its website for interested couples to investigate open dates for weddings and their assorted packages available for purchase.

Sharine Grayson-Thomas said the same. 

"If you like to have total control of everything and be like a 'bridezilla,' it’s not for you, they're really planning everything," she explained. "You're choosing a few things and you're giving them money for it."

Dana Grayson-Thomas said there are a few ways to incorporate your own flare, especially if the ceremony is held before the ship departs such as theme colors.

Reeves also hired a private photographer to work her wedding – even though she was bending the rules a bit.

"You're not supposed to … but I did it anyway," she said. "(The cruise line) wants you to use their photographers but if you tell them your 'aunt' or 'uncle' is a photographer and is taking your photos for free then they'll allow it."

And while no live flowers are allowed on board because of the possibility of insects traveling from one country to another on the ship, Reeves worked with a florist to select artificial floral arrangements to bring on board, she said.

Even though she added her own touches, it still was simpler than it would have been to plan a wedding shoreside, she said.

"Since the whole wedding was 2.5 hours total, it made the planning part very easy because it was just ceremony and reception," she explained. "I also had to have everything planned out and submitted to my Carnival cruise wedding planner at least 60 days before the wedding."

There was a downside though, to the simplicity: It felt rushed. Reeves and her husband, Michael, had to miss a few dances to go take photos with the photographer since there wasn't designated time to do that – when it may have taken place during a cocktail hour at a traditional venue.

But, Reeves said, they don't have any regrets.

"It was a fantastic experience," she said. "I would recommend anyone who is uncertain about what kind of wedding they're wanting but they know they want casual, fun, and unique to definitely get married on a cruise ship."

And Hayes agreed. "We had a wonderful day and the ship’s staff couldn’t have done more to make it go smoothly."

How to Plan a Dream Cruise Ship Destination Wedding in 12 Steps

Congratulations on your engagement fellow cruise ship lover! Either that, or you are a first time cruiser who is entertaining the idea that getting married on a cruise ship for a destination wedding would be absolutely fabulous.

Sailing the high seas, a warm tropical wind in your face and the vibrant beat of the DJ playing tunes on deck, whilst you sip a cold beverage and snuggle up to your new spouse in a comfy wicker pod chair — sign me up!!

If that sounds like your little slice of paradise, but you aren’t quite sure where to start, not to worry. We’re here to help you sort out a few planning issues in this article.

Step 1: Choose a wedding location & number of guests

There are a number of different locations you can choose for your cruise wedding, each of which gives you a unique experience, and will influence the final price.  In general, you will choose a location that is:

• Port of call
• At the port of departure

Question: How many people do you want onboard sailing with you?

Answer #1: Just for Two – An intimate cruise elopement would keep prices down and ensure a relaxed vibe. Do what you want when you want, without the pressures of appeasing or entertaining guests. You can also opt for a cruise send-off wedding, held at the departure port of the cruise. This option combines the intimacy and reduced price of the previous option while also involving more family and friends.

Answer #2: A Family Affair – Taking your family and friends along with you on the cruise is possible. You can choose to say your vows at a chosen port on the ship’s itinerary. This way, everyone gets to enjoy a destination style wedding, while the happy couple gets to enjoy the intimacy of their cruise without interruptions.

Step 2: Choose the destination / length of travel

The destination and length of your cruise are two critical components of planning a cruise wedding. Start by thinking about the style of wedding you want. If you imagine an intimate cruise for two, your length of travel is only limited by your budget.

Typically, cruises can be categorized into the following lengths of time:

• 3 – 6 nights
• 8 – 13 nights

Getting married on the cruise ship with the whole family or at an established port? You may want to limit your cruise to only 5 or 6 days. That way everyone can take the necessary time off work to travel and cruise with you.

Combine your travel season with your cruise length and you should find a few different options that work for you.

Step 3: Choose your date

When choosing a date for your destination cruise wedding, consider booking in the shoulder season just before or after peak season. The weather will likely be as nice as the high season, and your tickets may be less expensive. If traveling with a group, you will also have a better shot at getting the perfect cabin configuration for your group.

Picking a date for your destination cruise can be quite the chore. It is difficult to pick that perfect calendar date so that the people you invite are able to take time off work, schedule what to do with the kids, set aside a budget, and generally go on a vacation.

Someone you really want at your wedding may potentially miss out. But, don’t let that stop you from going ahead. Try to compromise and pick a date that works for all the people on your must attend list.

Step 4: Which Cruise Line?

Picking the right cruise line for your style of wedding is an important task. It really depends on the type of cruise you want for you and your guests. We’ve put together a quick guide to six popular and affordable cruise ship lines , many of which allow you to host a destination wedding at a port of call.

Do your research and ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to the cruise ship companies and dig into the specific wedding packages.

Also, try browsing a website like Cruise Critic . They have additional guides and reviews of both cruise lines as well as individual ships. What’s also great is the message board forum they host on their website, where real couples and fellow cruisers interact by posting questions and answers. It is an invaluable source of on-the-ship information and tidbits that you may not find anywhere else.

We’ve successfully used Cruise Critic in the past when planning and taking our own cruises. Just like any other social network, follow the rules and etiquette and you’ll be fine!

Step 5: Book The Cruise

We’re currently working on a complete guide to booking your wedding cruise. In the mean time, we will say that our past experiences booking a cruise vacation using online platforms have been easy and hassle free.

Several options exist for booking your cruise:

• Direct booking option on a cruise line website
• Use an online travel booking platform like CruiseDirect, Travelocity, or Expedia
• Calling the cruise line’s reservation center
• Use a travel agent (yes, they still exist!)

Top Online Cruise Booking Sites

1. CruiseDirect

Type the search term “book a cruise online” and you’ll find CruiseDirect near the top of the search results. As a leading online cruise travel company, they’re dedicated to providing their customers with access to great deals on cruise vacations.

We love the variety of cruise companies they have on offer as well as their reputation as a highly rated cruise company.

2. VacationsToGo

We’ve used this company several times to book cruises including our mini-moon cruise after our wedding. Their warm and friendly customer service agents have never let us down.

We love keeping track of last minute discounts by using the 90-Day Ticker feature. While we don’t often avail of the deep discount prices (up to 80%+ off!!!), it is fun to browse and dream about sailing the open seas again.

3. Travelocity

One of the most trusted names in online travel booking, we’ve used Travelocity to book hotels and car rentals in the past with great success.

The selection of cruise packages includes well known brands like Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, and Princess Cruises.

Tip: Save money by booking as a group

There are benefits to booking your cruise as a group. Cruise lines offer various savings and deals for groups, especially if traveling for a wedding. Deals can include a free stateroom for the bride and groom, an onboard private reception area, dinner seating arrangements that seat your group together, free cocktails, and other welcome gifts for your wedding party.

Step 6: Send Save the Date Cards

Expect that some people won’t be thrilled with the idea of a destination wedding for a number of reasons. And that’s okay! If it’s what you want then go for it.  Just know that it is an expense that some may not be able to afford, or  simply don’t enjoy cruising. You may receive less save-the-date cards back than you expected.

Whether you send cards out yourself or use an all-inclusive service, the main thing to keep in mind is that you want to have the people who matter most beside you on your big day.

A destination themed postcard design could be the perfect choice for your save the dates. Our suggested online stationer Minted.com (we used them for our own wedding!) has lots of great design options. The two designs below are whimsical and travel oriented to set the tone:

If you need a little etiquette refresher, here’s our article on how to address your save the date cards .

Step 7: Setup Your Wedding Website

Making a wedding website is a fun and simple activity nowadays, thanks to the modern necessity of being online. Look for a service that lets you drag and drop elements you want into your site, at whatever budget rate you have. These range from free DIY versions to more expensive options that set up the perfect site for you.

Be sure to share details on how to make reservations and other important info.

We reviewed one of the most popular wedding websites (Minted), so go check out our in-depth review here.

Step 8: Selecting a photographer

Photographers are skilled professionals that make your wedding the event you’ll remember the rest of your life. The ship package you choose may provide you with a skilled wedding photographer who already knows all the best photo spots around the ship or at your chosen venue.

If you are looking to save money, more modern options of sharing a wedding hashtag, curating group videos via social media, or letting a friend or family member be the designated documentary specialist are all budget friendly.

Step 9: Set up a wedding registry

Many cruise ships offer a registry service as part of a wedding package. Ask ahead if that interests you. This allows gifts to be added on board or even let guests pay for the couple’s amenities on board.

What kind of registry gift giving can you expect from a cruise ship?

• Shore and land excursions
• Dinner for two in a specialty restaurant
• Beverage package
• On-board credit for one of the boutique shops
• Credit to the spa
• … and more

Example cruise lines that offer an on-board registry:

• Royal Carribean
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princes Cruises

Step 10: Marriage License

International laws and special circumstances mean you will need to be on top of your game when it comes to getting a marriage license for a cruise ship wedding. Make sure you get the license with plenty of time left ahead of your departure date. You can always have a legal ceremony before or after the cruise if you are worried about the complexity of it on board.

Step 11: Send Invites

Invites for a ship wedding are going to look similar to an ordinary invite with a few exceptions. Make sure to include directions to either the dock or the meeting point for departure.

If your wedding is taking place in a port of departure, you will want to mark a time that allows people to get to the ship in time for the ceremony.

The above Minibook invite by Minted is a wonderful wedding invitation for a destination or cruise ship wedding that might have a lot of details to pass on to guests. Don’t forget to make note of any special circumstances your location might call for — no heels at a glacier ceremony would be a good tip to pass on!

Step 12: The Dress

Some cruise lines offer rentals for things like tuxes and bridesmaid dresses. If you don’t have time to secure those items ahead of time, or you don’t want to rent them from a shop for the duration of your cruise, this might be your best option. This will also free up space in your luggage.

Flying to your cruise ship departure destination? Be sure to read our guide to packing and folding your wedding dress .

Bon Voyage!

The planning is done for your dream destination wedding on a cruise ship! Now it is time to get out your calendar and count down the days until you too are popping the champagne and sipping a Bahama Mama on the lido deck!!

i want to know how arrange for wedding for ship!!?

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Wedding Planning

Elena & Daniel: husband and wife team behind Love and Lavender. Read Our Story

• Weddings & Occasions

Plan Your Cruise Wedding

WEDDING PACKAGES

Every wedding is different, so we offer packages designed around your wishes. All of our weddings are offered on embarkation day, at sea, on the ship in a destination, or on land in a destination.

SIGNATURE CEREMONY

If you’re only inviting a few guests or if you have lots of friends to share this moment with, Signature Ceremonies are ideal for you.

• Includes 10 guests including the couple 1
• Pre-cruise wedding planner
• Priority embarkation assistance (embarkation day weddings only)
• Private shipboard venue
• 15–20-minute ceremony
• Pre-recorded ceremony music
• Local officiant
• Keepsake wedding certificate
• Two-tier cake
• Sparkling wine toast 2
• Honeymoon dinner for the couple
• Photography services
• One canvas (16" X 20") 3
• Service charges, gratuity included
• Aisle runner
• Two pillars with silk floral arrangements

• 1 Additional guests will be charged at $29 per person plus applicable sales taxes.
• 2 Served to adult attendees only.
• 3 With the purchase of any wedding photography package. Photo canvas is non-refundable.
• 4 Not available for destination on-island weddings. Call for more about décor options.

IT’S A CELEBRATION!

For maximum fun on your wedding day, choose a ceremony followed by an onboard reception.

• Minimum of 20 guests including the couple 1
• One canvas (16" X 20") 2
• Sparkling wine toast 3

• 1 Carnival weddings can accommodate a maximum of 50 non-sailing guests in the embarkation ports. Prices displayed are based on a party of 20. Additional guest charges will apply at a cost of $42 per person. The one hour reception includes a choice of hors d’oeuvres and a premium beverage package.
• 2 With the purchase of any wedding photography package. Photo canvas is non-refundable.
• 3 Sparkling wine toast is for adult attendees only.
• 4 Not available for destination weddings; Call for more about décor options.

LOVE ASHORE

Paradise awaits you. For those longing to say “I do” with a beautiful ocean backdrop, on a sandy white beach or plush garden setting, we offer idyllic island settings for your special day.

• Wedding ceremony location in a beautiful setting
• Ceremony performed by a wedding officiant (non-denominational official/minister or notary public)
• Assistance of a wedding coordinator on location to oversee guest needs during the wedding ceremony
• Recorded ceremony music
• Transportation to and from the location for the couple (where applicable, transportation to and from the courthouse) 1
• Wedding cake 2
• Champagne toast for the couple
• 1-hour photography service at the ceremony 3
• One Canvas (16" X 20") 4

• 1 This package includes round trip transfers (island taxi) to the wedding location for the wedding couple only. Additional guests may attend at an extra cost, prices vary per location (subject to applicable sales tax based on port).
• 2 All Love Ashore wedding packages include a single tier wedding cake for the wedding couple served on island, with the exception of Half Moon Cay where the cake will be served back onboard. Please inquire with your Wedding Planner for more details.
• 3 Photographer and editing included; photographs sold separately prior to the end of the cruise.
• 4 With the purchase of any wedding photo package. The canvas is non refundable.

DIAMOND ENHANCEMENT PACKAGE

And for the most memorable experience... why not add more?

• Couple’s continental breakfast including mimosas
• Silk flower petals displayed on the cake table
• Chocolate-covered strawberries delivered to couple’s stateroom
• Carnival Weddings Exclusive Beach Kit for the couple
• Moet+ Chandon sparkling wine delivered to the couple’s cabin
• 30-minute couple’s massage
• Keepsake silk floral bridal bouquet and boutonniere

• 1 Enhancement package cannot be purchased a la-carte and is non-refundable.

Your Choice of Wedding Venues

Embarkation Day Wedding

If you’re welcoming guests to your wedding who won’t be sailing with you, the perfect place and time for your ceremony is before the cruise starts. You’ll begin your vacation with a wedding aboard the ship, and then set sail on an amazing honeymoon cruise!

Wedding At Sea

A ceremony at sea is the perfect way to celebrate your nuptials, with family and friends, during the cruise.

• At sea marriages are symbolic in nature and have no legal or binding effect. The symbolic ceremony is performed by an assigned shipboard officer or member of management.

Onboard Destination Wedding

If your wedding party is planning to sail along with you, holding your ceremony aboard the ship while at a port of call of your choice is a great option. You’ll find plenty of time to pamper yourself at the spa in the days before your wedding, and once the knot’s tied, the rest of your cruise is your honeymoon!

Destination Wedding

Say “I do” on an island! If this is your dream, a destination wedding is the choice for you! Picture the island breeze in your hair, the most amazing view as the backdrop for your photos and your friends and family around you to share the moment. We can make this happen!

• All shoreside beach venues may not be private.
• Photo includes flower arrangements available for purchase in select locations through vendor.

PLAN NOW OR LEARN MORE

Have a planner contact you, download digital brochure, view weddings faq s, personal touches.

Entertainment 1

All Carnival wedding packages include complimentary pre-recorded music. If you’re interested in exploring other entertainment for your reception 2 , please contact us for options!

Starting at $150

• 1 Entertainment cannot be purchased for the Signature Ceremony.
• 2 Reception entertainment is provided by a shipboard Social Hostess.

Let's Cut The Cake!

Pardon the pun, but one of the sweetest parts of getting married is the cake… both the taste and the tradition. That’s why all Carnival shipboard wedding packages include a classic two-tier wedding cake. 1 Most important, the cake is customizable to your taste — choose a flavor for the cake and for the filling.

Cake Flavors

Choose from butter/vanilla, chocolate, marble, lemon, coconut, carrot or red velvet. And yes, you can mix flavors!

Cake Filling

Select your filling of choice from vanilla, chocolate, cream cheese, strawberry, lemon, or coconut.

• 1 On-island cakes are 1-tier cakes. If you need more cake to feed your guests, larger cake sizes can be purchased to make sure all your guests get a slice!
• Photos are displayed with extra decorations and other cake enhancements available for purchase through the vendor in the home ports and destinations venues.

Photography

Carnival’s professional photography team will be there to capture the most important moments of your wedding… and help create visual memories that will last a lifetime. The service is included with your wedding package, although photographs are sold separately. If you choose to purchase photos, you’ll actually go home with them — they’ll be ready before your cruise is over!

Your Wedding Day Video

Our wedding videos 1 are unique & modern; we capture the highlights of your special day in short video clips with a music backing. Includes highlight coverage of the ceremony & reception as well as a short love story. Video of the bride and groom shot around the ship after your wedding. Our wedding video does not contain any original audio from the ceremony or interviews and is presented on a USB flash drive. The video can be purchased separately or as an additional upgrade on to any of our wedding photography collections.

Video only: $899 2

Video when purchased in addition to a Wedding Photography Collection: $599 2

• 1 Total length of the edited video is 3-5 minutes long, depending on overall ceremony and reception.
• 2 Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

RENEWAL OF VOWS

Do you ever catch yourself thinking you’d totally marry your special someone again? A Renewal of Vows ceremony aboard a Carnival cruise is a great way to tie the knot a little tighter. Get ready to say “I still do!” as you celebrate the time you’ve spent together… and the years still to come. Make new memories as you affirm that your feelings remain every bit as strong as the day you first said those simple, powerful words. It wouldn’t be a ceremony without friends and family on hand, so feel free to invite them along — it’s a party, after all! This time, let Carnival take care of the little details that made the first time great: wine, music, wedding cake and more are included, with options for open bar and even more guests. The ship’s captain will actually officiate your ceremony, signing your certificate to seal the deal. Learn more about Renewal of Vows ceremonies.

HONEYMOON CRUISES

View Weddings FAQs

Engagement packages.

So much can go into the decision of whether to pop the question to your partner… but deciding on where to do it should be pretty easy! Some people may have a personally-meaningful spot in mind, but we think everyone should think about getting engaged on a Carnival cruise. After all, there are lots of good reasons to choose the cruise! For one thing… well, have you seen those amazing ocean views? Let the beauty of nature itself be the scenery of the memories you’ll surely carry with you for the rest of your life, or choose another private onboard location. (Yes, photo and video services are included — our pros will be capturing that moment!) When you choose an engagement package from Carnival Weddings, our staff of planners get right to helping bring your ideas to life, or even suggest some of our own. And even after the planning stages are over and the big moment is upon us, you’ll love our attention to detail and execution, giving you the confidence to know things are going to go smoothly. Find out all the details about onboard engagement packages.

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TAKE YOUR LOVE ON AN ADVENTURE

MAKE IT UNFORGETTABLE ROYAL WEDDING CRUISES 

You’re getting married! This is one of the most exciting and important times of your life, and Royal Caribbean® has everything you need to make your wedding as beautiful and seamless as you can imagine. From the right venue to the right menu, you’ll find fantastic choices onboard. Our inclusive wedding packages leave room for customization and those special personal touches, so the cake, flowers, music, breakfast-in-bed, and more are up to you.

Ready to say “I Do”? Start planning your Royal Wedding by submitting your information.

EMBARK ON ROMANCE 

Invite sailing and non-sailing guests to share in your occasion during embarkation day. Plus enjoy dinner for two at a specialty restaurant and more.

Start your wedding on the right note with live music at the ceremony. Then dance away at your reception with a live band, pianist, or DJ.

From custom bouquets to accents and arrangements, Royal Weddings offers an array of floral options to make your celebration more colorful.

Create a reception that reflects your personal style. Choose from a variety of unique options--from cocktail parties to restaurant buy-outs.

Pamper yourself with a couples' massage, a warm towel shave or prepare for your special day with salon services.

Capture your special moment with our team of professionally trained photographers.

Create a stunning honeymoon registry and wedding website and be sure on your way to an extraordinary journey together.

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Weddings? Burials at sea? Unexpected things you can do on a cruise ship besides cruising

When thinking of a cruise , we generally imagine sailing away for a relaxing vacation of sun and fun. Lots of food, perhaps a drink with an umbrella in it and the magnificent ocean.

We're lucky in Florida, home to some of the world's busiest cruise ports including PortMiami, Port Canaveral , Port Everglades, Port Tampa Bay, JAXPORT, and Port of Palm Beach. There is also a port in Key West, but this is mainly used for cruise ship calls rather than a homeport.

Most people know cruises offer a great value and are nearly all-inclusive with good food , accommodations and entertainment. Add to that exotic ports of call and shore excursions that strike all fancies, from beach bums to adrenaline junkies.

But there are some lesser-known accommodations available on most cruise ships .

From joyous occasions to celebrations of life, here are some extraordinary services cruise ships offer.

You can get married on a cruise ship

Want to say "I do" onboard a majestic ship or at an exotic location?

You can do that on a cruise ship and be on your honeymoon at the same time.

Many cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Lines , Carnival and Royal Caribbean , offer weddings and wedding renewals aboard the ship or at scenic tropical locations.

Your guests don't even have to cruise with you.

For example, 50 non-sailing guests can take part in weddings aboard Carnival Cruise Line ships before the cruise sails from the port of embarkation.

Royal Caribbean allows for 75 of 150 wedding guests to be non-sailing. NCL permits up to 10 non-sailing guests free of charge, but a reception must be booked if you have up to 50 guests who are not sailing.

Check with your cruise line for availability and details.

Burial at sea: Scattering a loved one's ashes from a cruise ship

A loved one's remains can be buried at sea during a cruise.

Several cruise lines allow for the scattering of cremated remains from their ships, provided the guest can produce the decedent's death and cremation certificates.

The remains are generally required to be in a biodegradable urn and some cruise lines require the entire urn to be tossed into the sea.

Cruise lines work with guests to determine burial time and place. Guests are usually taken to a more secluded part of the ship and given privacy for scattering the remains.

Contact your cruise line before boarding for availability and policies.

Cruise ships have jails. Can you get arrested on a cruise ship?

While there are a lot of perks for traveling via cruise ship, there are some facilities available on most cruise ships that may surprise you.

For example, many cruise ships have a small jail, called a brig. The brig is generally located on one of the bottom decks.

Misbehavior or breaking the law on a cruise ship can see you confined to your cabin or locked up in the brig.

Do cruise ships have hospitals?

Most cruise ships sailing from U.S. ports have medical facilities, including a doctor, on board to treat minor illnesses and injuries, and to stabilize patients with more serious health issues until they can be transferred to land-based facilities.

While available, medical care on a cruise ship is not free . Your land-based health insurance is generally not accepted on board and medical service fees are charged to your sailing account.

Your health insurance may not cover you while you're on the ship and out of the country. Check with your provider before boarding and look into travel health insurance for concerns over recouping any out-of-pocket costs.

Is there a morgue on cruise ships?

Morbidly, yes, there's a morgue on board. It's legally required , according to Readers Digest .

In case of a death, the body is stored in the morgue until it can be transferred off the ship.

Support local journalism by  subscribing to a Florida news organization .

Taco Relish

Groom Sinks Partner's Plans For A Titanic-Themed Wedding

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

From choosing attire, the menu, guest list, and decor, any married couple knows the hard work and compromise that goes into planning a wedding.

But how about wanting to make your entire wedding theme about one of history's biggest disasters and Hollywood's biggest blockbusters? One groom-to-be did, and now his fiancé is asking Reddit if he's in the wrong for putting his foot down. Keep reading to learn more.

The Ship Of Dreams

In April 1912, the RMS Titanic set sail from the U.K. on its maiden voyage across the Atlantic Ocean bound for New York City. The luxury liner was carrying approximately 2,200 passengers and crew when, on April 14, it struck an iceberg 400 miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, and sank, killing 1,500 people.

But even over 100 years later, the disaster has ingrained itself in our history and culture and remains a fascination for many.

James Cameron's Titanic

The fascination of the Titanic disaster was sparked once again when, in 1997, director James Cameron released his three-hour epic film Titanic , which cleaned up at the Oscar Awards and made lead actors Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio household names.

To this day, it remains one of the highest-grossing films of all time and is still a historical and cultural phenomenon.

The Reddit Post

User throwawaytitanic2 recently took to a popular subreddit to get a bit of clarity on a situation that involved him, wedding planning, and his fiancé's favorite film.

He begins the story by explaining that he is a 23-year-old and is engaged to his 33-year-old fiancé who just so happens to be "obsessed" with James Cameron's film Titanic .

Wedding Bells Are Ringing

While planning for their upcoming wedding, the Reddit original poster (OP) says his fiancé made it clear that he wanted their "whole wedding" to be Titanic -themed, even to the point where OP would dress as Jack and his fiancé as a male version of Rose.

OP himself is not a fan of the film and felt that it's unfair to make the theme about something that only one person is passionate about. And that's where the wedding planning suddenly takes a turn straight into an iceberg field.

Iceberg, Right Ahead!

"I told him I wouldn't mind some Titanic references here and there but he started crying and said he wants the whole thing to be Titanic -themed because that's 'the wedding he always dreamed about,'" OP explains .

He says his fiancé then stormed out of the house and the couple did not speak to each other for two days.

My Heart Won't Go On?

OP says that he feels guilty for making his fiancé cry, but feels he's being "unreasonable." When he spoke to his parents about the issue, however, they were on the fiancé's side and said that he should go along with the Titanic theme due to sacrifices being part of marriage.

He then asks Reddit if he's in the wrong "for refusing to do a Titanic -themed wedding?"

Not Enough Lifeboats

Reddit voted and they overwhelmingly found user throwawaytitanic2 to not be in the wrong in this situation and they felt like this captain did not deserve to go down with his ship.

They were confused by the overall theme and wondered what the heck a Titanic -themed wedding would even look like. "I'd hate to be in the wedding band," one person commented.

Cal Hockley Vibes

Other users focused their attention on the groom specifically and how he was acting more like Rose's jealous fiancé Cal than Jack Dawson. They said that ignoring OP's wants and then throwing a tantrum when he didn't get his way is toxic, adding that his parents being okay with it was also concerning.

"Why are you marrying someone who is 1) ten years older than you and 2) apparently still a child?"

One Of History's Deadliest Maritime Disasters

Other users focused their attention on the fact that Titanic was a deadly maritime disaster first and a romantic film second. They wondered what other disasters might be tastelessly co-opted for future wedding themes.

"I know you're not crazy about theme weddings, but I've given this a lot of thought. Now hear me out... World War Two," one Redditor joked .

A Happy Hollywood Ending

In a later post update, OP explains that he and his fiancé reconciled and he apologized for overreacting. The couple has decided on a dual theme for their wedding of both Titanic and Batman because OP is a Batman man.

"Thanks everyone for your (mostly) helpful advice," he wrote .

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