Cruise line offering free holidays for passengers aged between 18 and 26 but there's one huge catch

That sinking feeling when you get excited by a good deal - only to realise that you're too old.

One year away from turning 30 is even less fun when it means you miss out on a free holiday.

It turns out that if you're aged between 18 and 26, you've got the chance to sail the world for free, but with one catch.

This is because US cruise liner Virgin Voyages has announced its provided travellers with a deal of a lifetime - to 'bring the kids for free'.

What a time to be aged between 18 and 26! (Chris Putnam/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

Virgin Voyages explained in a statement: "'If you're old enough to vote, you're old enough to sail' was the thinking that inspired Virgin Voyages' (cheeky) definition of 'children'.

"As a brand celebrated for its adults-only atmosphere, the company is changing its tune and answering the call of its sailors to bring their (adult) children on board.

"Whether your (not so) little ones are about to graduate, head off to college or be bumped from their current health insurance, there's truly no better way for parents to celebrate with their grown-up kids than aboard Virgin Voyages' award-winning fleet."

However, the catch is that you have to take your parents on the cruise with you, or you have to go with your parents.

For some this may be a bit of an issue, but for others it's a pretty sweet deal.

Though Virgin Voyages noted: "[The promotion is] only applicable with a second sailor in the cabin. If a third and fourth sailor are added to the cabin, they will pay the full prevailing cabin price."

The catch is that you have to take your parents with you. (Matt Blyth/Getty Images)

If it is something you might be interested in, just know that you need to have it booked before 23 August, 2024.

And sailings can include any vessel apart from Valiant Lady travelling on 30 December, 2024, the Resilient Lady setting off on 28 December, 2024 and Scarlet Lady, scheduled to leave on 28 December, 2024.

The cruise liner added: "At the time of booking, the Sailor must contact Sailor Services or their First Mate to apply the promotion to the booking.

"The offer is not automatically applied to any booking meeting the requirements."

Also remember that the 'Kids Sail Free' offer can not be used alongside other offers or promotions.

One last thing is that holidaymakers must book through Virgin's Sailor Services for the offer to be eligible.

To learn more info, click here.