Oceania Cruises is charting a new course of "tranquility and sophistication at sea," announcing on Wednesday that the company's luxury ships will transition to an adults-only model for all future cruises.
Any existing reservations that were made for minors before Jan. 7 will be fully honored, "ensuring a seamless and considerate transition for valued guests," the company added.
Oceania Cruises noted that the new policy reflects its ongoing commitment to creating a "relaxed atmosphere of genuine hospitality and meaningful connection," which the company said were "hallmarks" of its culinary-centric voyages.
Several people shared their thoughts on the new guideline in the comment section.
"We have been on many Oceania cruises in the past and have only seen very few children at all … I think the better solution would have been to ban these passengers from any additional cruise and continue to allow families with well behaved children to enjoy the experience," one person penned.
"Wow as a recently retired professional I am happy to see this shift," another commented. "This is great and I wish more cruise lines would be adults only!" a third wrote.
In its press release, Oceania Cruises said it conducted extensive research among frequent guests and seasoned travel partners, as well as new passengers, before updating its age requirements.
"Feedback consistently showed that guests choose Oceania Cruises for its serene atmosphere, sophisticated service and unhurried pace, traits that are highly sought after and valued by mature, affluent travelers," the company noted.
Jason Montague, Oceania Cruises' chief luxury officer, said guests frequently mentioned that the calm environment aboard the company's ships was a key factor in their decision to book additional trips.
"By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey – one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery," Montague added.