We’ll call it “The Ignorance of Youth” rule. And there’s good reason for it.
The world’s two largest cruise lines – Royal Caribbean and Carnival – have altered their age requirements for passengers sailing out of U.S. ports. You’re no longer allowed to sail by yourself if under age 21, unless your cabin mate is 26 or older. And that person has to be a relative or “guardian,” although not a legal guardian.
There have been multiple incidents over the last year with large-scale disturbances on ships caused by young people sailing alone or in groups. Some have turned violent. The change in philosophy is a direct result of those incidents.
Most resorts and cruise lines had already banned Spring Break groups because of the abuses that usually follow. These new cruise line age restrictions are in addition to those.
This is another example of a few ruining it for everyone else … and themselves at the same time. Those perpetrators usually face criminal charges and permanent bans.
You’re in luck if you’re married and both under the age of 21. I guess the cruise lines figure those folks have better things to do. The only requirement is they must present a marriage certificate or license as evidence.
Ignorance of the rule is no excuse either. If you show at the pier for embarkation not conforming ti the policy, you will be denied boarding with no compensation.
With policies changing over time your best option is to consult a travel agent whenever booking travel. Their job is to be aware of the evolution of travel rules and keep clients informed. Don’t take a change on getting caught in between policy changes.