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Couple celebrating their wedding at sea on a cruise ship
October 3, 2025

5 Reasons to Get Married on a Cruise (and Make It the Wedding of Your Dreams)

Why Couples Are Choosing Cruise Weddings

When it comes to saying “I do,” more couples are moving beyond traditional ballrooms and banquet halls. They want weddings that feel unique, adventurous, and unforgettable, the kind of celebration that lasts longer than one evening. That’s why cruise weddings are growing in popularity.

A wedding at sea combines romance, convenience, and travel into one seamless experience. From sunset vows to built-in honeymoons, here’s why a cruise wedding might be the perfect way to begin your forever.

Bride and groom at cruise destination wedding with ocean views

1. The Ultimate Destination Wedding

Every port becomes a new backdrop for your love story. Picture exchanging vows against a Caribbean sunset, along the Mediterranean coastline, or on a private island. With a cruise wedding, your venue sails with you, meaning your ceremony and honeymoon blend into one seamless adventure.

2. Stress-Free Planning with Cruise Wedding Packages

Most cruise lines offer all-inclusive wedding packages that handle the details like officiants, flowers, music, and even your wedding coordinator. Instead of juggling multiple vendors, you get a team dedicated to making your big day effortless, so you can stay focused on what really matters…celebrating with your loved ones!

Wedding party celebrating at cruise destination in the Caribbean

3. A Wedding + Vacation for Your Guests

Your special day becomes a vacation for everyone. Guests enjoy pools, spas, dining, live shows, and excursions, making the celebration last long after the vows are spoken. Think of it as a wedding, family reunion, and group getaway rolled into one.

4. Surprising Affordability

Many couples are shocked to learn that cruise weddings can be more budget-friendly than land-based options. Because venues, catering, accommodations, and entertainment are bundled, you often get more value for your money. Plus, your honeymoon is included, a win-win for both romance and your wallet!

5. An Unparalleled Experience at Sea

Few things compare to standing on the open ocean, horizon stretching endlessly behind you, as you say “I do.” From intimate ceremonies to lively receptions, cruise weddings deliver unforgettable memories that guests will talk about for years.

Groove Cruise couple celebrating their wedding with friends

The Groove Cruise Spin on Weddings

For couples who want to go beyond traditional, Groove Cruise offers the most unique wedding-at-sea experience imaginable. Captains have celebrated engagements, anniversaries, and even weddings onboard, all surrounded by world-class DJs and the supportive Groove Cruise community.

The love stories that unfold onboard prove how magical a wedding at sea can be. Whether you envision a barefoot beach ceremony, a quiet moment under the stars, or a high-energy dance floor celebration, Groove Cruise makes it possible.

For serious inquiries about weddings on Groove Cruise, please email weddings@whettravel.com

Vow renewal cake during a cruise anniversary celebration

Beyond Weddings: Vow Renewals & Anniversaries at Sea

Cruise celebrations are for more than just newlyweds. Many couples choose to mark anniversaries, vow renewals, or milestone moments onboard. The ocean provides a naturally romantic backdrop, and cruise lines offer tailored packages to make these occasions just as special as a wedding.

On Groove Cruise, Captains have celebrated everything from 10-year anniversaries to surprise vow renewals under the stars, proving that love stories of all kinds belong at sea.

FAQs About Cruise Weddings & Celebrations

Can you legally get married on a cruise ship?
It depends. Some cruise lines perform legal ceremonies onboard, while others arrange the legal marriage at port and host a symbolic ceremony at sea. Always check with your cruise line about documentation requirements.

How much does a cruise wedding cost?
Costs vary depending on the cruise line, package, and itinerary. Basic wedding packages can start at around $1,500, while more elaborate celebrations with receptions, dining, and extras may range from $5,000–$10,000+. Compared to land weddings, cruises often provide great value since accommodations and entertainment are included.

Do cruise lines provide wedding planners?
Yes! Most cruise lines include a dedicated wedding planner or coordinator who helps manage everything from flowers and music to the ceremony timeline, so you can relax and enjoy your big day.

Can guests who aren’t sailing attend the wedding?
On some cruises, non-sailing guests can board for the ceremony while the ship is in port, though they must disembark before departure. Policies vary, so it’s best to confirm with your chosen cruise line.

Can you renew your vows on a cruise?
Absolutely! Many couples choose cruises for vow renewals, anniversaries, or milestone celebrations because of the romance of the ocean and the convenience of onboard packages. From small, intimate ceremonies to full-scale celebrations, vow renewals are a popular choice at sea.

Is a cruise wedding suitable for small or large groups?
Both! Cruise weddings are flexible. Whether you want an intimate ceremony with just a few guests or a big celebration with dozens of family and friends, cruise lines can customize packages to fit your group size.

What destinations are best for a cruise wedding?
Popular options include the Caribbean for tropical vibes, the Mediterranean for history and culture, and Europe for romantic cities. Each itinerary creates a different atmosphere for your big day.

Bride and bridesmaids getting ready for cruise wedding celebration

Tips for Planning Your Cruise Wedding

  • Book early for the best staterooms and group packages.

  • Understand the legalities: some couples marry officially at port, while others hold symbolic ceremonies at sea.

  • Pick the right itinerary: Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Europe each bring a different vibe to your big day.

  • Add personal touches: onboard photographers, live music, or custom décor make your ceremony uniquely yours.

A Wedding That’s Truly Your Own

Getting married on a cruise isn’t just about a ceremony, it’s about beginning your marriage with love, laughter, and adventure. Whether you book a cruise line wedding package or embrace the one-of-a-kind Groove Cruise experience, your big day at sea will be a memory you and your guests never forget.

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Groove Cruise couple celebrating love on the dancefloor
all aboard!
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