cruise ship weddings australia

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Welcome to P&O Cruises. This website presents a main menu on the left hand side from where you can browse our cruises, and a toolbar menu at the top page with search, live chat, support, and profile settings.

• Skip to side menu (Press enter)
• Skip to toolbar menu (Press enter)
• Skip to content (Press enter)

Wedding & Vow Renewal Cruises

Celebrate your special day, your way.

Weddings ● Vow Renewals ● Commitment Ceremonies

A Wedding to Remember

Getting married onboard a cruise ship is an incredibly unique experience and one you and your guests will never forget. Whether it’s a big white wedding or an intimate vow renewal, P&O celebrates diversity and love in every form, and we welcome all types of unions onboard.

Ceremonies at Sea

Extra touches, drink & canapé receptions.

To complement your chosen celebration, we offer a range of red, white and sparkling wine options. Canapé receptions can be pre-booked with your travel agent or our expert Celebrations at Sea team. Please note drink and canapé receptions are subject to availability.

Professional Photo Packages

Don’t miss a single memory. Our professional onboard photographers offer an array of innovative products and sophisticated services, including beautifully crafted albums and prints for your home. Our team can confirm photo packages once your wedding confirmation is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enquire now.

Download a Brochure

Celebrate your special day, your way, on the open ocean with P&O.

Available Mon- Fri 8:00am - 6:00pm (AEST)

Call (02) 8326 4830

To reach our Groups Enquiries Team

[email protected]

• My Favourites
• Experiences

The lowdown of getting married on a cruise ship

It’s affordable, everyone gets a holiday and the venue and catering are taken care of. If you haven’t considered a wedding at sea, this may change your mind.

This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. When you click on them, or share this content, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Cruise line’s huge move in Australia

8 things we love about the Crystal Serenity

Got a spare $134K? Regent just launched the world’s most expensive cruise

Anyone who has ever helped organise a wedding will know that every aspect, from the venue to the cake, can involve huge mark-ups. And then there’s the guests to consider. If it’s a destination wedding will they all have the funds to pay for airfares, food and accommodation There is another way, and it’s affordable. A wedding at sea means everyone gets to have a great holiday and you get quality time with family and friends. What’s more, all that pesky organising of the venue and catering is taken care of. Here’s what some cruise lines are offering.

VOWS WITH A VIEW

For P&O Cruises , summer is the most popular time for cruise ship weddings. They already have 45 ceremonies scheduled between now and the end of 2019, and so far there are 21 weddings booked for 2020.

It’s easy to see the attraction. The line has its own Australian wedding planner, Natasha Bhan, who has delivered nearly 500 on-board weddings, commitment ceremonies and renewals of vows for intimate events of 16 guests to larger affairs of 100 people or more. And the happy couple are given the VIP treatment with extras including a spa voucher, complimentary dinner, bathrobes to take home and an invitation to the ‘Meet the Officers’ party on applicable cruises.

Australian and New Zealand laws require a registered celebrant to perform a wedding ceremony and guests can choose their own to officiate the ceremony. The ceremony is held on-board while the ship is in port on the day of embarkation, allowing the celebrant to disembark prior to sail away. Picture being on-board P&O’s flagship Pacific Explorer enjoying spectacular views of Sydney Harbour while exchanging wedding bands.

DREAM WEDDING

Dream Cruises offer a range of on-board indoor and outdoor venues for wedding ceremonies — from a classic cocktail party to a buffet, seated dinner or banquet. After the festivities, guests can retire to a peaceful room or a connecting suite that’s ideal for families. The highlight though has to be the opportunity to really get your name up in lights with their 300 metre-long shipside LED lighting system to make that special announcement.

THE LOVE BOAT IN REAL LIFE

Once the cruise line to host TV series The Love Boat, Princess Cruises are deft hands at organising weddings and offer a number of packages including a ceremony performed by the captain. What’s more, Princess has a registry where guests can give shore excursions and spa treatments to the newly wedded couple. Princess’ wedding co-ordinators can arrange everything from flowers, music and cakes to photography, tuxedo rental and ironing. And they have a wedding planner tool.

HAVE A ROYAL WEDDING

Prefer to get married on a Queen? Be it Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth, Cunard roll out the red carpet to couples wishing to tie the knot. Imagine your very own champagne soiree followed by dancing in a grand ballroom. The Cunard wedding package includes a wedding ceremony venue, a ceremony at sea conducted by the captain, two fresh floral arrangements, music, a commemorative wedding certificate, a bottle of Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée, wedding invitations and thank you cards for your voyage guests, services of the on-board wedding co-ordinator, White Star Bellman to escort the wedding couple to the ceremonial room, a pressing service for outfits, and priority services. You are also able to personalise your special day and choose from a host of additional finishing touches.

When she’s not travelling the world on a cruise ship, music-loving Andrea can be found searching for additions to her record collection in New York or LA. She once sat next to ’90s Maxi Priest on a flight, and has her sights set on a trip to Mexico City – and cruising on Viking Orion.

Cruising has become a big deal over the past few years, even among Gen Z-ers, which is why this liner has made a big move in Australia.

With just 740 guests on board and fresh from a 2023 refurb, this cruise liner is one of our favourite ways to explore the ocean.

This cruise will stretch the deepest pockets.

Cruiser’s secret to seeing Venice without crowds

This traveller discovered the ideal way to visit some of Europe's most popular destinations without battling crowds of tourists.

Mon - Fri 8:00am - 7:00pm Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm (AES/DT) Closed on Public Holidays.

Onboard Weddings, Vow Renewals, and Engagement Parties

Revel in the romance of the seas and create a special moment you and your partner will always remember. Our professional Wedding Planners will work with you to arrange a symbolic ceremony on board to celebrate your wedding, renew your vows, or declare your love.

For a truly memorable experience, choose from a variety of elegant venues on board our ships while discovering the Mediterranean , Northern Europe  and Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar  or get married in the Caribbean  at our stunning beachside destination like Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve .

Enjoy excellent food and drink options for your wedding menu and choose your cake, flowers, music, photo package and much more.

choose your wedding package

Classic Celebration package

• Pre-Cruise Wedding Planner and onboard Wedding Coordinator
• Ceremony with pre-recorded music attended by Ship’s Officer and venue with Floral arrangements
• Preserved bouquet & Matching Boutonniere
• 1 Symbolic ceremony certificate, signed by the Captain
• Two-Tiered Cake (26 cm and 20 cm) and sparkling Wine Toast for Couple and guests (up to 6)
• Photography Service (1hr)*
• Stateroom Décor (night of Ceremony).
• 1 Printed Photo cm 20x25

Romantic Celebration Package

• Three-Tiered Cake (26 cm, 20 cm and 12-15 cm) and a bottle of Champagne (Moet & Chandon)°
• Photography Service (2hr)*
• Stateroom Décor (night of Ceremony) with 1 Deluxe Breakfast for 2
• 1 Bottle of Moet & Chandon & canapé served in the cabin (+2 flutes as souvenir)
• 1 Romantic dinner for two at a restaurant of your choice, including a bottle of Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte
• Priority Check-in for Bride and Groom and ironing dresses service
• 2 Printed Photos cm 20x25

Deluxe Celebration Package

• Champagne (Veuve Clicquot) Toast for Couple and guests
• Photography Service (3hr)*
• 3 Printed Photos cm 20x25
• Hair style for her, Cut, Style and Shave for him and manicures for the Bride and Groom

Ocean Cay Celebration

• Pre-Cruise Wedding Planner and onboard/onsite Wedding Coordinator
• Ceremony with pre-recorded music attended by Ship’s Officer
• Wedding Pavilion venue with floral arrangements to adorn the ceremony location
• Round Trip Transportation for the couple on Ocean Cay
• Ironing wedding dresses service and Preserved bouquet & Matching Boutonniere
• 1 Symbolic ceremony certificate and booklet, signed by the Captain
• Two-Tiered Wedding Cake; Champagne Toast for Couple and guests (up to 6)
• Photography Service (2hrs including the ceremony and Ocean Cay locations)*
• Stateroom Décor (1 night) and Deluxe breakfast in the stateroom the morning after the ceremony
• 1 Bottle of Moet & Chandon, two gift flutes and canapés in the stateroom on embarkation day

MSC Wedding Planners will ask you to complete a form collecting all your wishes for your wedding cruise including the exact date and time. MSC ceremonies are symbolic only and have no legal or religious binding. Privately contracted services are not permitted. Cakes are decorated with the names of the couple and served in the ceremony lounge or restaurant on request. If the package is intended as a surprise, an invitation to the Captain's Cocktail will be sent to the couple as a diversion. You can have your ceremony carried out only as part of one of the four mentioned packages. Both the contents of these packages and their prices may vary and are subject to confirmation. 

The packages include up to 8 participants (the couple plus 6 guests; ages 3 and older count as guests, as sparkling wine can be substituted with fruit juice or punch). A supplement of $6/€5 shall be payable in advance for each participant above the total number of 8, with cake and sparkling wine for everybody to toast!

MSC WEDDING PHOTO PACKAGES

Photography hour(s) are included in your selected Wedding Celebration Package Classic, Romantic, Deluxe and Ocean Cay.

Elevate your experience with our team of professional photographers, who will capture the moments of your special day to create your wedding story.

Choose among 4 options for your enhanced wedding photo-service: Wedding Photo Package , Wedding Storybook Package , Wedding Storybook and Framed Photo Package & Wedding and Shoreside Photo Package . Add your selected choice to your cruise booking in your personal area. 

Once on board, please visit the Photo Gallery to discuss all arrangements prior to your wedding day.

Book now  and Save up to 20% vs. onboard prices!

Your choice of 20 photos will be printed on high quality 8”x10” (20x25cm) photo paper, framed in individual gallery mats and presented in a beautiful keepsake box.

Type of service:  Charges apply

Your Wedding Storybook: this 30 page 10x14” (26x36cm) album includes 30 images of your choice

• All images from your Wedding Storybook will also be printed on high quality 5x7” photo paper and provided in digital format on a USB Stick.

Type of service : Charges apply

• Your Wedding Storybook: this 30 page 10x14” (26x36 cm) album includes 30 images of your choice with an additional copy to share;
• All images from your Wedding printed on high-quality 5x7” (13x18 cm) photo paper and provided in digital format on a USB Stick;
• 1 high-quality framed 8x10” (20x25 cm) photo of your choice.

• Your Wedding Storybook: this 30 page 10x14” (26x36 cm) album includes 30 images of your choice with two additional copies to share.
• All images from your Wedding printed in two sizes, 5x7” (13x18 cm) and 8x10” (20x25 cm), on high-quality photo paper and all images from your wedding and every cruise photo of you and your partner provided in digital format on a USB Stick with a second USB Stick to share.
• Two additional hours with our Photography Team to be used any day of your cruise onboard or shoreside.*

EXTRA SERVICES AVAILABLE

• Culinary delights & extra toasts:  full list and choice of menus available on board
• Live ceremony music:  for the perfect atmosphere (fees per hour payable aboard based on availability)

enrich your cruise and make it even more special

Book online and get advantage of our discounted prices vs. onboard prices!

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

• Pre-Cruise FAQ
• Onboard FAQ
• Post-Cruise FAQ
• Cruisetours FAQ
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

Celebrate Your Wedding with Princess

Princess Perfect Weddings creates unforgettable moments by offering packages tailored for couples seeking unique and romantic ways to say "I do," including grand ceremonies in The Love Boat’s picturesque piazza as well as outside deck areas that offer breathtaking venues with stunning ocean views, providing a perfect backdrop for a romantic ceremony, at a price significantly lower compared to land-based venues.

Princess Perfect Weddings offers couples a range of options within a variety of wedding, renewal of vows and proposal packages, each ensuring that the couple's dream vision can be realized, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. 

With all Princess Perfect Weddings packages performed at sea, ship captains serve as the ceremony officiant and all packages include a dedicated wedding specialist who works closely with couples pre-cruise and on board to tailor their wedding package according to their unique vision and requirements. From selecting the perfect venue to arranging decorations, flowers, and photography, every detail is handled to ensure a seamless and unforgettable event.

In addition to the beautiful ceremony and reception venues, couples and their guests also enjoy the unmatched amenities and entertainment onboard the iconic Love Boat. From world-class dining options to luxurious spas, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling onboard activities, Princess ensures an unparalleled experience for all guests.

For more information about Princess Perfect Weddings, visit  princess.com/weddings

This is what it costs to get married on a cruise ship

By Kristine Tarbert | 10 months ago

Destination weddings are a popular option for some couples, but what if that destination was at sea?

Yes, cruise ship weddings are also a booming business and it might not cost as much as you might think.

In an Easy Weddings' survey this year, of over 3,500 engaged and recently married (2020-22) couples, the average spend for an Australian wedding was $34,715.

So how much would it cost to get married on a cruise ship?

READ MORE: Australians warned over fines for bikini habit during Europe holidays

Princess Cruises recently launched their newest Princess Perfect Weddings packages, offering couples a range of options from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.

With all Princess weddings performed at sea, the ship captains actually serve as the ceremony officiant and all packages include a dedicated wedding specialist who works closely with couples pre-cruise and on board to tailor their wedding package according to their requirements.

Couples can also choose between a symbolic wedding ceremony or an actual legal wedding ceremony.

The smallest option to book is a Perfect Pair Wedding, which includes the couple and up to two guests. A symbolic wedding will cost $US2,995, while a legal wedding, includes marriage license for $US3,495 ($5,200).

READ MORE: Tourist filmed carving names into Rome icon facing fine and prison time

And what do you get for that cost? And indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship's captain, fresh florals, a wedding cake, and sparkling wine toast, a dedicated photographer service and memorable prints.

Plus a romantic breakfast for the couple, stateroom gifts and goodies, a pre-cruise and onboard wedding co-ordinator, and a keepsake certificate. 

You can have up to eight guests plus a solo live musician during the ceremony in a Timeless Ceremony at Sea that costs $US3,995 for a symbolic wedding or $US4,495 ($6,700) for a legal wedding.

The top package is a Timeless Wedding at Sea, which also includes bridal hair styling and makeup, a dedicated venue to celebrate after ceremony, signature welcome cocktails curated by the couple, and a premium dining experience for up to 18 guests.

A symbolic wedding will cost $US5,995 and a legal wedding is $US6,495 ($9,600).

The Love Boat line of ships also has added packages for Princess Proposals at Sea for $US795 ($1,200) and Vow Renewal Celebrations $US1,595 ($2,300).

It's worth noting that these prices don't include the cost of the actual cruise itself, but even a cruise worth $10,000 is cheaper than what some pay for a wedding on land these days.

This first phase of new packages features only at-sea options, but more packages, including a signature Randy Fenoli Weddings package (after the American TV host and bridal designer was announced as brand ambassador), as well as Weddings Ashore, as set to be announced later this year.

For a daily dose of 9Honey, subscribe to our newsletter here .

• Travel News
• Cruise Ships

Property News: Expert predicts Sydney house prices could reach the $2 million median in two years' time.

How to nab accommodation in London for under $100 a night

The ten best places to visit on a trip to South Korea

Four-year-old plane lover surprises his pilot dad on board

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

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: ∅.

Cruise Ship Weddings

There are many reasons a pair of lovebirds might choose to be married during a cruise. The couple in question might be drawn by the allure of the open sea, or by the charm of a beautiful foreign destination. Or perhaps they simply want to have their wedding and honeymoon all in one – the ceremony and celebrations blend into each other as the voyage continues!

Whatever the reason for choosing a cruise ship wedding, there are plenty of options to suit you and your partner. Let’s take a look at a few cruise lines that can offer you the cruise wedding of your dreams.

P&O Australia weddings

For the full cruise wedding experience, it’s hard to go past P&O. Their Ceremonies at Sea program offers couples a wide range of options for their special day, including affordable packages for ceremonies, receptions and photo/video coverage.

The big day will begin with priority check-in and boarding on your chosen cruise. You, your soon-to-be spouse and your guests will then enjoy a beautiful ceremony in a private on-board venue, followed by cake-cutting and a photo session. Afterwards, you can keep the celebrations going with a Drinks & Canape Reception package; alternatively, you might choose to reserve a private celebration dinner at Luke Mangan’s Salt Grill Restaurant. Whatever your choice, P&O’s Ceremonies at Sea is sure to give you a day you’ll never forget.

While they’re unable to offer ceremonies while the ship is at sea, P&O’s port-based wedding ceremonies are currently available on embarkation days in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, Newcastle, Fremantle and Auckland. Weddings, as well as renewals of vows and commitment ceremonies, are available on all P&O ships.

Royal Caribbean weddings

Whether you envisage an on-board ceremony or a destination wedding, Royal Caribbean’s romantic wedding packages have got you covered. Their Royal Romance Wedding Specialists can help you plan every detail of the perfect wedding day you have in mind.

Choose from a Paradise Shipboard ceremony, offering everything you need for a simple, elegant on-board wedding; or a Paradise Destination ceremony, which allows you to choose the ultimate exotic backdrop for your day – there’s a range of beautiful destinations available. You can also choose to be married while your ship sails the high seas with a Royal Romance At Sea package, providing a uniquely romantic setting for your special day.

Whichever ceremony you choose can be completed with a Royal Reception. Celebrate your just-made vows in style with a formal wedding luncheon, or a lunch or hors d’ouevres buffet with bar service. Put the finishing touches on your day with optional extras such as professional photography/videography, entertainment, or special wedding cake customisations.

Celebrity Cruises weddings

Celebrity Cruises are another great option for couples wishing to be married at sea or in a breathtaking foreign destination. With options to customise everything from reception entertainment and floral decorations to canapes and wedding favours, Celebrity’s wedding packages will ensure the day is everything you imagined and more.

Author: Alison Campbell

Post Date: 8th September 2020

Categories: Cruising

Get married on a cruise and save up to $60,000

It’s valentine’s day on wednesday – and we know our readers are a romantic lot.  so whether it’s renewing your vows or saying “i do” for the first time, we’ve compiled the good lovers’ guide to cruise ship weddings..

And we discovered a ceremony at sea is amazing value. According to comparison and money site Canstar, the average Australian wedding costs <$65,000.  Even Government money site MoneySmart says plighting your troth costs an average $36,200.

Cruise ship packages, complete with the Captain, a cake, sparking wine and flowers can cost as little as $3,000.  For a little bit more, you can even marry on the beach or at a port stop, and throw in a photographer.

Who has the best value when it comes to walking up the gang plank rather than the aisle?

With Valentine’s Day coming up, we’ve shortlisted the best price packages.  Now all you need to do is propose!

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offer couples three packages – a ceremony at sea, one harbourside, or one ashore. The ‘At Sea’ wedding package takes place on board. This includes legal ceremony officiated by the Captain, wedding Chapel (or library hire, depending on the ship), a bouquet, boutonniere, a wedding cake, sparkling wine, and a keepsake wedding certificate. Princess Cruises’ ‘Harbourside’ wedding package is for you if you have non-sailing guests. It’ll have all the same inclusions, with the main difference being that you won’t be on board, so the wedding can be legalised by a local officiant. The ‘Ashore’ option allows you to get married at one of the line’s picturesque destinations – such as a beach, garden, or glacier. Again, a local officiant will carry out the ceremony, and this package differs from the first two to include: destination vows, and a specialty cake for the bride and groom.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offer four wedding packages named ‘Vows at Sea,‘ ‘Embark on Romance’, Intimately Yours’, and ‘Destination I do’. The ‘Vows at Sea’ package includes a personal planner, wedding day coordinator, private wedding venue on board, wedding cake and musical accompaniment, bottle of Moet & Chandon champagne, a three-tier wedding cake, chocolate covered strawberries, honeymoon dinner, mimosa breakfast, wedding certificate, gift registry, non-denominational wedding officiant, plus a special gift from Royal Caribbean.

The ‘Embark on Romance’ option has the same inclusions but allows any non-sailing guests to witness the ceremony before the ship sails. You’ll also get a pier-to-ship escort and priority check-in.

Couples who pick the ‘Intimately yours’ package get to have 10 guests at their ceremony. This packages features similar inclusions to the two named above.

For the ‘Destination I do’ deal, couples can choose from a location in port – or get married on the ship while it’s docked. Choose from locations like Antigua, Bermuda, and Florida. Full-blown reception options are available at an additional cost, as well as for photography or live music services.

Celebrity Cruises

The line became the first to recognise same-sex marriages and from October 2017, Celebrity’s captains can perform marriages for the LGBTQ community. The first same-sex couple were married at the beginning of this year on the Celebrity Equinox. Celebrity has three packages – Celebrations Package, Shipboard Package, and the Shoreside Package.The Celebrations package is for couples who’d like to host an entire reception on board the ship. This includes: a pre-sailing event manager, reserved indoor event location, full photography service, and a one or two-hour food and beverage reception. If you want to be married onshore at an exotic destination, try the Shoreside package. The Shipboard alternative allows you to be wed at an exotic port of call of your choice (off the ship), before you set sail. And as a third option – consider their Shoreside package. This is your wedding as organised by the cruise line – at your choice of over 200 destinations worldwide. Celebrity Cruises also offer engagement packages, and an option for vow renewal ceremonies as well.

Cunard’s ‘At Sea’ wedding package includes a captain-officiated ceremony, on board wedding coordinator, a wedding license, priority check in, two floral arrangements, accompanying wedding music, and a keepsake marriage certificate. You’ll also get complimentary invitations and thank you cards for your guests. Reception packages can also be arranged on board – with the option for either lunch or dinner dining. Depending on the ship selected, there are plenty reception variations on offer at Curnard’s onboard dining venues – such as the option for a cocktail and canapé wedding reception.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line also have same-sex wedding ceremonies in destinations where the union is recognised by the local legal system. Norwegian offers three wedding packages : A ‘Wedding at Sea’, ‘Harbourside’ Package, and a ‘Destination’ wedding option. The ‘At Sea’ wedding includes a group service coordinator, boutonniere, bouquet, a 6-inch cake and champagne to toast, canapés, chocolate-covered strawberries, and a one-hour wedding photography service. The Bahamas will issue your marriage certificate. They also have a package option that is performed by a ship officer, and thus not legally binding. Destination weddings with Norwegian Cruise Line vary in price – depending on the on shore location of choice. Choose from settings as blissfully exotic as the sands of Bermuda or a glacier in Alaska. A la carte options and additional enhancements like floral arrangements and spa experiences are available at a cost – to complement the basic package inclusions.

P&O Cruises

P&O’s ‘Weddings at Sea’ Package includes: services of the on board wedding coordinator to make your special day, everything you dreamed of. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, or an exclusively adult ceremony, they can accommodate to suit. Your choice of destinations will determine the price – choose from a Caribbean or Mediterranean voyage.

The package includes invitations and thank you notes, Captain officiating the ceremony, ceremony venue with floral arrangements, wedding music, a professional photographer, and an official copy of the marriage certificate. The bride and groom receive a bottle of champagne on arrival, and another to perform a post-ceremony celebratory toast.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line’s in the US offers three packages with three options each according to your budget. The ‘Intimate ceremony’ package is designed for a small affair. The ‘Intimate Ceremony’ ranges in price from gold, platinum, and diamond. The basic gold package includes up to 10 guests including the bride and groom, a pre-cruise wedding planner, private venue, local officiant, two-tier cake, champagne for a toast and a honeymoon dinner for the newly wedded couple. You’ll also get an official wedding license and keepsake marriage certificate. Upgrading to the platinum tier gets you breakfast in bed, enhanced decorations, a silk bouquet and chocolate-cover strawberries. You’ll get all the bells and whistles in the highest diamond tier, plus florals for up to three bridesmaids, complimentary bathrobes and a couples’ massage.

If you’re inviting plenty more guests, consider the line’s ‘Grand Ceremony’ package, where you can host up to 50 non-sailing guests and enjoy all other package inclusions. As for decorations, you’ll receive aisle runners and two pillars with silk floral arrangements. The third and most extravagant Carnival wedding package is the ‘Carnival Classic’ – which has all of the above featured as well, followed by a complete on board reception, again available at gold, platinum, and diamond tier price points where you can get Moet + Chandon champagne and a three-tier cake.

Related Posts

Find out all you need to know from our professional Cruise Passenger team

How to get onboard the Scenic Eclipse II in Australia and save up to $7500

Ultimate guide to Christmas cruising in Australia from just $700

2025 Best cruises from Southeast Asia from $462pp for five nights

Cruise lines offer Kimberley expeditions from $7818pp

What happens when cruise ships leave guests behind? 

Can you really get 80% off a cruise? The truth about those special deals

7 ways to get a cabin upgrade

10 ways to stay safe on your shore excursion

Best cruises from Melbourne with savings of up to $1000

Best cruises from Sydney offer up to 60% off, saving thousands

Cruise Passenger Ultimate Guide: Crown Princess

How a baggage handler saves cruisers – and a marriage! And 7 tips to ensure your bags aren’t lost

Cruise&Travel magazine is Australia’s No.1 publication for travel enthusiasts.

There are four issues per year, with each issue is packed full of must-read features, including cruise news, reviews, destination guides and the most enticing itineraries.

• Tips & Advice
• &Travel
• Cruise Planner
• Privacy Policy

• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers

Wedding on a cruise??

By Sallyandtex , October 21, 2023 in Australia & New Zealand Cruisers

Recommended Posts

Sallyandtex

Hi, asking for a family member. 

Has anyone experienced going to a wedding  or being married on a cruise?

If yes, which comlany/ship and can you please tell me about your experience. Particularly the service and communication with the  couple for planning and also how good/bad it was.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

MicCanberra

I wasn't part of it but there was a wedding party bride and groom and a few others, on one our cruises, most of the family members were meeting at one of the ports for the wedding ashore and the reception. Our ship missed the port. They did have the honeymoon anyway.

1 hour ago, MicCanberra said: I wasn't part of it but there was a wedding party bride and groom and a few others, on one our cruises, most of the family members were meeting at one of the ports for the wedding ashore and the reception. Our ship missed the port. They did have the honeymoon anyway.

I think the Carnival one I looked at they do it in Sydney prior to everyone else on embarkation day.

I went to the wedding forum here but most of the chat is outdated and US based

Here are some links that may help. 

Note the Royal Caribbean and Celebrity sites are down for maintenance today,

https://www.google.com/search?q=cruise+ship+weddings+australia&client=tablet-android-samsung-rev2&sca_esv=575557852&source=android-home&source=hp&ei=3dc0ZemhHO-i2roP-oqYyAk&iflsig=AO6bgOgAAAAAZTTl7a2qBAWgVE3Q8QkQwmd1Js4ZGKfY&oq=cruise+ship+weddings&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IhRjcnVpc2Ugc2hpcCB3ZWRkaW5ncyoCCAAyBRAAGIAEMgUQABiABDIFEAAYgAQyBRAAGIAEMgUQABiABDIFEAAYgAQyBhAAGBYYHjIGEAAYFhgeMggQABgWGB4YDzIGEAAYFhgeSO1eULwQWNxLcAF4AJABAJgB6AKgAe4jqgEIMC43LjExLjK4AQHIAQD4AQGoAgrCAhAQLhgDGI8BGOUCGOoCGIwDwgIQEAAYAxiPARjlAhjqAhiMA8ICERAuGIAEGLEDGIMBGMcBGNEDwgIIEAAYgAQYsQPCAgsQABiABBixAxiDAcICDhAuGIAEGLEDGMcBGNEDwgIOEC4YigUYsQMYgwEY1ALCAg4QLhiABBixAxiDARjUAsICCxAuGIoFGLEDGIMBwgILEAAYigUYsQMYgwHCAgsQLhiABBixAxiDAcICDhAAGIAEGLEDGIMBGMkDwgIIEAAYigUYkgPCAhEQLhiABBixAxiDARjHARivAcICERAuGIoFGLEDGIMBGMcBGK8BwgIFEC4YgAQ&sclient=gws-wiz

https://www.princess.com/learn/cruise-gifts-celebrations/romance/wedding-cruises/

https://www.pocruises.com.au/experiences/groups/wedding-vow-renewals

https://www.carnival.com.au/wedding-cruises

mum and son

I may be wrong, but I don't think you can get married at sea unless your celebrant is also travelling on the cruise. I have friends who were married on the Pacific Aria some years ago and they had to get married while the ship was still docked. All guests have to be booked passengers, but I believe the celebrant will come onboard and perform the wedding and then disembark before it sails, unless they are a booked passenger.

There are some recent reviews of onboard weddings on fb groups for some of the ships that call Brisbane home. The happy couples were thrilled with the service from the cruiseline (P&O) from the reviews I read. 

8 minutes ago, mum and son said: I may be wrong, but I don't think you can get married at sea unless your celebrant is also travelling on the cruise. I have friends who were married on the Pacific Aria some years ago and they had to get married while the ship was still docked. All guests have to be booked passengers, but I believe the celebrant will come onboard and perform the wedding and then disembark before it sails, unless they are a booked passenger.   There are some recent reviews of onboard weddings on fb groups for some of the ships that call Brisbane home. The happy couples were thrilled with the service from the cruiseline (P&O) from the reviews I read. 

That is my understanding of Australian weddings. In the US, the Captain has the authority to marry at sea. Even an Australian Captain who is a qualified celebrant would not have authority to marry Australians at sea.

The P&O packages are mostly geared for pre-cruise. The wedding party boards and the ceremony is held by their celebrant while the ship is in port. Those that want to stay aboard to celebrate with the bride & groom will have already booked the honeymoon cruise. If done ashore, it could be done in any port of the cruise, but as far as I am aware it is only the departure port to have it on the ship. It could be different on other lines. The above links will be invaluable in finding what they will or won't do, and how much it will cost.

In Australia, the Captain can "remarry you" at sea, aka do a renewal of vows ceremony.

Another option is to get married on one of the islands, but you need to line that up with a church and/or celebrant first. Every guest will need to travel to get there, but not necessarily on the cruise. We have friends who were married in Port Vila several years ago. After the ceremony, the singer played a ukulele and sang Happy Wedding to You.

Aus Traveller

28 minutes ago, mum and son said: I may be wrong, but I don't think you can get married at sea unless your celebrant is also travelling on the cruise. I have friends who were married on the Pacific Aria some years ago and they had to get married while the ship was still docked. All guests have to be booked passengers, but I believe the celebrant will come onboard and perform the wedding and then disembark before it sails, unless they are a booked passenger.   There are some recent reviews of onboard weddings on fb groups for some of the ships that call Brisbane home. The happy couples were thrilled with the service from the cruiseline (P&O) from the reviews I read. 

It depends on which cruise line. Princess actively 'chases' the wedding market with many of their ships having a Wedding Chapel. A few years pre-COVID Princess announced that they were changing their port of registry for the ships (or might have been some of their ships) to Hamilton in the Bahamas so their captains would be able to perform weddings.

19 hours ago, mum and son said: I may be wrong, but I don't think you can get married at sea unless your celebrant is also travelling on the cruise. I have friends who were married on the Pacific Aria some years ago and they had to get married while the ship was still docked. All guests have to be booked passengers, but I believe the celebrant will come onboard and perform the wedding and then disembark before it sails, unless they are a booked passenger.   There are some recent reviews of onboard weddings on fb groups for some of the ships that call Brisbane home. The happy couples were thrilled with the service from the cruiseline (P&O) from the reviews I read. 

Thankyou, can you tell me key words for FB group at all there's lots...if it's allowed here

7 hours ago, Sallyandtex said: Thankyou, can you tell me key words for FB group at all there's lots...if it's allowed here

I don't know if I'm allowed but if you look for people who are addicted to the P&O ship based in Brisbane and search wedding you'll find plenty of info.

A couple was married on board the P&O Pacific Encounter on its cruise (23rd-30th Oct) to Cairns. The wedding was on the first full sea day.

2 hours ago, Aus Traveller said: A couple was married on board the P&O Pacific Encounter on its cruise (23rd-30th Oct) to Cairns. The wedding was on the first full sea day.

Oh great! Do you know if they did a review/blog?

24 minutes ago, Sallyandtex said: Oh great! Do you know if they did a review/blog?

I have no idea if they did a review. I heard about the wedding when the bride appeared in a talent show "The Voice of the Ocean". I thought she should have won but the audience voted for the young girl, not the mature-age woman. Both singers were excellent.

Friends of ours were going to be married on P&O out of Sydney and then cruise the South Pacific with us all in tow. Unfortunately, covid scuttled that idea. They ended up doing the deed at Mt Tamborine on the Gold Coast. Nice, but a cruise immediately following the ceremony would have been a bonus.

clairebearinaus

In Victoria at least, to be registered as 'legal' (i.e. certificate issued) a marriage has to be conducted either by a celebrant licensed in Australia or a minister of religion. 

I haven't done a cruise wedding myself but was married overseas and since then have never been in a situation where I needed to show a certificate or prove I am married.  Government agencies etc. just accepted that I am when I told them so.  Some people I know are more keen on having that piece of paper (comes in handy if changing surname, and also when getting divorced!) so had a simple registry office marriage either before or after their 'destination wedding'.

I did look into a vow renewal ceremony (on Celebrity I think?) and it was straightforward and inexpensive.  They mentioned that any of the officers could show up to do it so I very much doubt they are accredited celebrants.

For a marriage performed in Victoria to be legal, it has to be performed by a licensed celebrant or a minister of religion. Traditionally ship's captains could perform marriages, but currently, this is only so when the country where the ship is registered allows it. The marriage would be as legal as yours that you mention was overseas. Not all countries give ship's captains the right to perform marriages. Princess Cruises announced several years ago that they were changing the port of registry for their ships from London to Hamilton Bermuda so the captain could conduct marriages.

A marriage on a ship is quite different from the vow renewal ceremony that has no legal standing whatsoever and does not require the celebrant to be registered anywhere.

I really don't understand about vow renewals, it is not like they run out or expire naturally.

BTW, I am quite happy with the vowels I was given originally so doubt I will ever renew them.

2 hours ago, MicCanberra said: I really don't understand about vow renewals, it is not like they run out or expire naturally. BTW, I am quite happy with the vowels I was given originally so doubt I will ever renew them.

I was thinking about a renewal of vows, but I was worried she would leave me standing at the alter.

I never really understood vow renewal. It seems to infer that maybe they didn't really mean it the first time.

12 minutes ago, lyndarra said: I never really understood vow renewal. It seems to infer that maybe they didn't really mean it the first time.

We haven't bothered to do the vow renewal when it has been offered on a ship. There didn't seem much point.

3 hours ago, MicCanberra said:   BTW, I am quite happy with the vowels I was given originally so doubt I will ever renew them.

New Zealanders do. They've been doing it for years. 😎

Apologies OP, I didn't mean to spark a derail. 

An acquaintance of mine once said that marriage license should be like a dog license and only renew it as needed. 😱 😱

Cheers Carole

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail Beyond the Ordinary with Oceania Cruises
• ANNOUNCEMENT: The Widest View in the Whole Wide World
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:21 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 03:17 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:00 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:41 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• Travel Updates

More couples tying the knot at sea

CRUISE ship weddings are booming in popularity as brides and grooms increasingly opt for affordable, hassle free nuptials at sea.

Missing travellers rescued from Aussie outback

Aussies warned over Euro summer of chaos

Photo of men standing on rock sparks outrage

But the idea may not be everyone's cup of tea, with the wedding guests then joining the happy couple on their honeymoon. P&O Cruises began offering wedding packages nearly two years ago but Carnival Australia spokesman David Jones said the concept had gone ``gangbusters'' in the past few months. "It's got to the point now where we have 55 weddings booked, including one wedding on a ship coming out of Brisbane next year with 150 guests,'' he said. "The family and friends all sail on the honeymoon with the bride and groom. "There's a lot of gregarious brides and grooms out there who don't mind their family coming along.'' Three-day cruises are the most popular for cruise ship weddings, with all of P&O's short breaks cruises next year set to include weddings. Due to legal requirements the wedding must take place while the ship is berthed, so the celebrant comes on board for the ceremony then leaves before the ship departs. "The brides love the fact that virtually all the arrangements are made,'' Mr Jones said. "They effectively only have to turn up on the day with their hair and make-up done and everything else is done for them.'' Wedding packages cost $1,320 including the venue, a photographer for two hours, flowers, cake and group dining for wedding guests. Couples can pay extra for an upgraded photo package and reception in celebrity chef Luke Mangan's Salt Grill restaurant. Vow renewals have also taken off, with 40 ceremonies planned over the next few months. "We're going to have to ration the renewal of vows to five per cruise because the captains are very busy people looking after the ship,'' Mr Jones said. Christy and Jason Howard, from Emu Park near Rockhampton, were married onboard Pacific Dawn in March and travelled on their honeymoon cruise with a wedding party of 50 people. The wedding and cruise cost the couple around $3000 on the cruise, $1399 for the wedding and $699 on photos. "My sister used to work at P&O and we just decided to do it," Mrs Howard said. "It's something different and we got a weeks holiday as well as getting married. "I wasn't stressed at all. All we had to do was select the type of cake and colour of the flowers - everything else was done for us." Bob and Nikki Watson, from Canberra, were married aboard the Pacific Jewel in July with 16 guests. "It was so much cheaper than a regular wedding,'' Mrs Watson said. "We stayed in the best suite but if we'd chosen a regular cabin it would have been around $5000 for the whole lot. "I'm at a time of my life where everyone is getting married and they're all going to so much effort and they're all so stressed - all we had to choose was the colour of the flowers and the type of wedding cake. "There's so many wedding where you don't get to spend any time with the bride and groom because they're duty bound to spend time with their family. "We probably didn't spend that much time with guests ourselves but we got to see them over the next ten days but if we didn't want to see them we could just go to our room.'' Louise Hirschbichler and Jon Kiploks, from Port Hedland in Western Australia, also plan to wed aboard the Pacific Jewel in January, with 50 guests expected for the nuptials. "Originally we thought we'd run away to Bali or Thailand but we didn't want to hurt family too much,'' Miss Hirschbichler said. "Both of us had cruised before and we were floating ideas around. "We have a lot of friends and family back home in Adelaide but it would have cost around $26,000.'' Instead the whole experience will cost around $11,000, including the 10 day cruise, $40 a head dinner at Salt Grill and photographs. "It's still dramatically cheaper and everyone gets a holiday as well,'' Ms Hirschbichler said.  

A group of travellers have been rescued in the Aussie outback after becoming stranded with their vehicle in remote terrain.

A number of European hotspots have begun a controversial measure that will affect everyone planning a long-awaited soiree in the northern hemisphere sun.

A photo of three young men standing on a rock in the Queensland bush has sparked furious controversy online.