Can I have a legal wedding onboard Virgin Voyages?

Virgin Voyages does not conduct legally binding weddings onboard, but you can handle the paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony at sea that’s just as meaningful.

How far in advance should I plan my cruise wedding?

We recommend at least 6–12 months in advance, especially for group packages.

Can guests who aren’t sailing attend the ceremony?

No—only guests booked on the cruise can attend, but we can help plan shore-based celebrations before or after the voyage.

Do you offer wedding group discounts?

Absolutely. Blue Horizons specializes in group perks, including free guests, suite upgrades, and private excursions.

How to Plan a Dream Cruise Ship Wedding

Apr 30

Written By Michael Brady

How to Plan a Dream Cruise Ship Wedding: Expert Tips for a Perfect Destination Celebration

When it comes to unforgettably tying the knot, a cruise ship wedding offers an unparalleled combination of romance, adventure, and elegance. Imagine saying “I do” with the open ocean stretching in every direction, a stunning sunset as your backdrop, and all the elements of a luxurious honeymoon bundled into one. But how exactly do you plan such a magical celebration? From choosing the right cruise line to customizing your wedding ceremony, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your dream cruise ship wedding.

Why Choose a Cruise Ship Wedding?

Cruise ship weddings have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. Here’s why:

All-Inclusive Packages: Cruise lines offer everything you need for a wedding, from officiants to cake and photography, all bundled together for an affordable price. This takes the stress out of coordinating different vendors and allows you to focus on enjoying your big day.
Exotic Locations: With a cruise wedding, you’re not just getting married on a ship — you’re getting married on the water, with breathtaking views of some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether it’s the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Alaska, you can choose the backdrop of your dreams.
Built-in Honeymoon: One of the greatest perks of a cruise wedding is that your honeymoon is already taken care of. After your ceremony, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the luxury of the ship, as well as explore exotic ports of call with your new spouse.
Stress-Free Planning: Cruise lines offer professional wedding planners who will help organize every aspect of your ceremony, ensuring that it goes off without a hitch. Many of them have packages tailored to couples who want a no-fuss, beautiful event.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for Your Wedding

Selecting the right cruise line for your wedding is crucial to ensuring a seamless experience. Here’s what to consider when making your decision:

1. Wedding Packages

Each cruise line offers different wedding packages, so it’s important to research and compare. Some lines may offer more basic options, while others may have more luxurious offerings. Popular lines known for their wedding services include:

Royal Caribbean: Known for their beautiful ceremony locations and customization options, Royal Caribbean is a favorite among couples who want a lively atmosphere combined with elegance.
Carnival Cruise Line: If you're looking for a fun and affordable wedding, Carnival offers budget-friendly packages that include everything from flowers to photography.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers more flexible wedding options, allowing you to choose a location on the ship or at a port of call, plus a range of luxurious add-ons.
Celebrity Cruises: A premium line that offers upscale wedding packages, ideal for couples looking for a more refined and intimate celebration.

2. Destination Options

Think about the type of destination you want. Do you want to say your vows at sea or in an exotic port of call? Make sure the cruise line you choose offers destinations that match your vision.

3. Ship Size and Atmosphere

The ship’s size can greatly affect the type of wedding atmosphere you’ll have. Larger ships tend to offer more variety in terms of wedding venues, but a smaller, more intimate ship can offer a cozy and personal experience.

4. Customization Flexibility

Some couples want a unique wedding, while others prefer something simple. Choose a cruise line that offers the level of customization you desire. Some allow you to add your personal touch with décor, music, and more, while others may have more set options.

5. Wedding Planner Support

Check if the cruise line offers dedicated wedding planners who can assist with organizing every detail of your ceremony. An experienced planner will make your life much easier, especially when you're working with a cruise line that’s organizing multiple weddings on the same day.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Cruise Ship Wedding

1. Book Your Cruise Wedding Package

Once you’ve chosen the cruise line and ship, it’s time to book your wedding package. This will typically include the ceremony, officiant, basic décor, and some extras like photography or a small reception. Most cruise lines offer customizable packages, so you can upgrade based on your preferences. Be sure to ask about all available options and what’s included in each package.

2. Select Your Ceremony Location

One of the highlights of a cruise ship wedding is the choice of location. Your options may include:

On the Deck: Picture saying “I do” on an open deck, with the ocean as your backdrop.
In a Chapel: Many ships have a dedicated wedding chapel for couples who prefer a more traditional setting.
In Port: Some cruise lines allow you to get married at a port of call, on a beach, or even at a landmark location.

3. Plan Your Wedding Date

Selecting the perfect wedding date is essential, not only for your personal schedule but also in terms of the cruise line’s availability. Some dates, especially during peak wedding seasons, may be harder to secure. Be sure to book early to ensure availability.

4. Choose Your Wedding Vendors

Cruise lines typically offer a selection of approved vendors for everything from florals to photography. It’s important to review their portfolio and ask about upgrades or customizations. You may want to consider adding:

Photography: Capture the moment with professional photos.
Flowers: Choose the flowers you want for your bouquet, boutonniere, and décor.
Entertainment: Many couples opt for live music or a DJ during their reception.

5. Send Invitations

Once your wedding package is booked and your date is set, it's time to send out invitations. Be sure to include the details about the cruise, including the dates, ship name, and any important information regarding travel arrangements. Some cruise lines even offer online tools to help you send digital invites.

6. Plan the Reception and Honeymoon

While your ceremony will be the highlight of the day, don’t forget about the reception and honeymoon! You’ll want to celebrate with your closest family and friends, either on the ship or at a destination port. Additionally, consider booking a luxury honeymoon suite onboard to start your life as a married couple in style.

Reception: Many couples choose to hold a small reception on board, complete with a cake and champagne. Others may opt for a larger reception with a full meal and entertainment.
Honeymoon: Since you’re already on a cruise, your honeymoon is right there waiting for you. Explore the destinations, relax on the beach, and enjoy the amenities that come with your cruise package.

7. Prepare for Your Wedding Day

As the wedding day approaches, make sure you have everything ready. You’ll need to bring your marriage license (most cruise lines require this) and any other necessary documents. Don’t forget your dress, accessories, and honeymoon essentials.

Be sure to also schedule time for pre-wedding pampering, such as a spa treatment or a couples massage. Many cruise lines offer packages for brides and grooms to relax before their ceremony.

What to Expect on the Big Day

On the day of your cruise ship wedding, expect everything to be taken care of by the cruise line’s staff and your wedding planner. You’ll likely start with a pre-wedding briefing where you’ll go over the schedule and review any last-minute details. After that, you’ll be guided to your ceremony location, where the magic happens.

Enjoy the beauty of the sea, the elegance of the ship, and the joy of getting married with your closest family and friends (if you choose to have guests). After the ceremony, you can celebrate with your reception or explore the ship and destinations on your honeymoon.

Additional Tips for a Perfect Cruise Ship Wedding

Guest List: Consider the size of your guest list. Many cruise ships offer intimate wedding options, so you don’t have to worry about a huge event. Having a smaller guest list can make the day feel more personal and intimate.
Dress for the Weather: Since you’ll be outdoors, make sure your wedding dress and attire are comfortable and weather-appropriate. Think about the heat or potential for wind if you’re getting married on the deck.
Keep it Stress-Free: Remember, your cruise wedding is meant to be a stress-free celebration. Let your cruise line’s wedding planner take care of the details, and enjoy every moment of your special day.