6 Cruises That Are Tailor-Made For Millennials (Yes, There's Laser Tag)

Cruises have surged in popularity with the millennial generation in recent years, and when you see the crazy cool amenities many cruise lines are offering, it's hardly a surprise. Think award-winning culinary concepts, adrenaline-pumping deck-side activities, and maybe even an intimate show from your favorite musical artist — all on the open sea. Cruises also offer the added benefit of affordability, less time commitment (if you want it), and a taste of multiple locations in one sun-drenched trip. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or a total newbie, keep reading for six awesome cruise experiences designed with the millennial generation in mind. Glow-in-the-dark laser tag, anyone?

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Mariner of the Seas
Getty | Michael H

Mariner of the Seas

A virtual reality trampoline experience, a surf simulator, winding water slides — wait, are we talking about a cruise ship here? The colorful vessel on the Royal Caribbean fleet is bringing adventurous travel to the sea, recently undergoing a $120-million renovation to add action-packed amenities like the Sky Pad (the bungee trampoline experience that transports cruisers to a virtual world), a glow-in-the-dark laser-tag emporium, and a planetary Royal Escape Room challenge.

If you're new to the world of cruising and this sounds a bit intimidating, you don't have to make a huge commitment — Royal Caribbean offers a ton of two- or three-day options out of Miami.

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U River Cruises
Getty | d3sign

U River Cruises

This millennial-focused cruise line hit the scene in 2017 and vowed to deliver a fresh take on experimental travel, offering unconventional amenities onboard like mixology classes, a silent disco, complimentary top-deck yoga, and even a rooftop camping experience where passengers can spend a night in tents under the stars.

Molly Cowen, a travel expert at TravelPirates, told POPSUGAR, "Expect stylish, compact boats, and hot European destinations like Amsterdam and Budapest. For those seeking authenticity, these cruises offer some great perks: you can dock directly in the city center and sign up for local events ranging from pub crawls to foodie tours to live music."

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Anchored
Getty | Malorny

Anchored

By day, spend your time rock climbing, playing minigolf, trying your luck at the onboard casino, or merely lounging poolside amidst panoramic ocean views. By night, you'll be rocking out to top-rated urban and house acts until the sun rises over the Mediterranean.

"The glam Anchored cruise spans over five nights and includes a musical lineup of well-known house and electronic acts," added Cowen. "But that's not where the entertainment stops. The ship features millennial-friendly touches like sunrise yoga, specialty cocktail bars, and Instagram-worthy dining."

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Carnival Fantasy
Getty | Jeff R Clow

Carnival Fantasy

Imagine spiraling down a waterslide before taking a break for street tacos and margaritas while a live band rocks out in the background. Or maybe a day at the spa followed by an al fresco dinner under the stars is more your speed? The Carnival Fantasy has that, too. Carnival Cruise line prides itself on showing the world how fun is done on the open sea, and its Fantasy class brings both the party and the R&R. Set sail to the Caribbean for a short jaunt on the turquoise waters, or, if you can carve out 10 days, an exhilarating journey to the Panama Canal will be one for the books.

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Holy Ship!
Unsplash | Jamie Mirrison

Holy Ship!

This isn't your ordinary EDM show. Besides the epic pool parties, talent contests, and other imaginative onboard activities, Holy Ship! delivers a top music festival-caliber lineup without the Coachella crowds. Join 4,000 of your (soon to be) closest friends for a week of dance parties and music sets from some of the best leading and emerging musical artists and DJs on the planet.

"This cruise has gained a cult following for a number of reasons, including its community spirit and high-energy parties," continued Cowen. "Theme nights, karaoke contests, and meet-and-greets will help you make lifetime memories and friends from all over the world."

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Themed Cruises
Unsplash | Sheila Jellison

Themed Cruises

Are you a diehard fan of The Walking Dead? There's a cruise for that. Live and breathe fashion? The Transatlantic Fashion Cruise is totally your speed. Whether you love wine, EDM, or RuPaul (sashay onto the Queens Overboard cruise to the Caribbean), chances are there's an adventure on the open sea tailor-made for you.