Major wedding law reform could legalise ceremonies on cruise ships at sea

The UK government has launched “a major consultation” on proposals to change wedding laws that would mean couples can “marry almost anywhere”.

The proposed reforms, which could be the biggest shake-up to wedding legislation in 200 years, shift away from bricks-and-mortar venues, so couples could choose to have legal ceremonies on cruise ships at sea, castles, canal boats, forests, beaches and more.

The proposals aim to make getting married “simpler, more affordable and more meaningful” and look to allow couples to create ceremonies that “reflect who they are”, for instance where interfaith couples can celebrate both faiths and traditions.

The Law Commission estimates the reforms could increase the number of weddings in England and Wales by 3%, which could generate £139 million in additional annual spending, contributing more than £238 million to the UK economy over the next decade.

The changes, if adopted, would mean a “major boost” for Britain’s wedding, tourism and hospitality industries.

Deputy prime minister and justice secretary David Lammy said: “They say you can’t put a price on love – but too often, the cost of weddings puts this commitment out of reach.

“That’s why I’m reforming archaic rules, so couples have more freedom to say ‘I do’ on their own terms, while strengthening safeguards to protect the meaning and permanence of marriage.”