An Exciting Adventure on the Seas
Cruises are one of the best ways to travel, combining a wealth of onboard activities and amenities with beautiful views, great food and stops in the world’s best destinations. However, as you age, the kids’ clubs, circus performances and onboard nightclubs may not be what you’re searching for from a vacation. Enter senior cruises; specifically designed for slow travel, with luxury cabins and more refined entertainment and activities, meaning cruising doesn’t have to stop at a certain age.
Short cruises, long-distance trips, vacations for those with mobility issues - the sky is the limit. Read on to learn more about the best cruises for seniors, from European riverboat cruises to American getaways.
1. Capitals of Eastern Europe, Viking Cruises
Riverboat cruises are popular with older generations, as they travel slowly, taking in more sights over fewer days, allowing you to enjoy your destination fully. Most Viking passengers are over 60, thanks to their adults-only policies, spacious suites, excellent fine dining, musical performances and fascinating lectures onboard, making the brand one of the best cruise lines for seniors.
Their Capitals of Eastern Europe 17-day cruise begins in Vienna, a remarkable city steeped in musical history and beautiful architecture. It stops in Bratislava, Budapest and Belgrade, among many other ports, before landing at its final destination of Bucharest. All stops include shore excursions, from short walking tours of cities and churches to dining or cycling for more active travelers. The elegant longships have spacious staterooms with river views or private verandas, a sun deck, indoor and outdoor dining space, plus a library and bar. With regional menus and wine, and lectures giving you insight into every port stop, Viking provides an in-depth cruise for seniors in Europe starting from $5,200pp.
2. American Revolution Cruise, American Cruise Lines
For those who don’t want to stray far from home or who have limited mobility, choosing cruises for seniors within the United States such as those offered by American Cruise Lines is the ideal solution. History buffs in particular will love their 11-Day American Revolution Cruise, which starts and ends in Baltimore.
You’ll explore the towns and cities that shaped US history, such as Annapolis, to visit the homes of the Founding Fathers, and Mount Vernon, the 18th Century home of George Washington. All of this is accompanied by onboard authors, actors and experts on the Revolutionary War who’ll bring history to life on your journey. A stunning sky lounge, restaurant, library and even a rooftop putting green offer activities to fill your spare time, and don’t forget to bring your formal wear for evening soirees and afternoon tea. Fares for this unique-themed cruise begin at $8,000.
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3. Southern Caribbean Seafarer, Holland America Line
Holland America stands out as one of the best ocean-going cruise lines for seniors, thanks to the many mobility assistance features, added comfort for visual or hearing-impaired passengers and ever-helpful staff. The 10-Day Southern Caribbean Seafarer cruise is for those looking for a sunshine-filled vacation not too far from US shores. Departing and returning to Fort Lauderdale, you’ll have port stops on the stunning islands of Curaçao, Bonaire and Aruba, as well as America Holland’s very own private island, Half Moon Cay.
Choose from inside, ocean view and vista suite staterooms, and onboard, enjoy everything from smooth jazz to classic rock in their live music lounges and the breathtaking BBC Earth in Concert. There are almost limitless dining options, which include sushi, Italian, a steakhouse and an award-winning French brasserie for sophisticated dinners. This is one of Holland America’s most affordable cruises, starting at just $1,400 for an Ocean View Suite.
4. Voyage of the Glaciers, Princess Cruises
Alaska offers the perfect mix of adventure and exploration while not straying too far from home. Princess Cruises’ incredible 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers, traveling from Anchorage to Vancouver, is one of the best seniors cruises that allow you to make the most of this otherworldly destination. The cruise includes three port stops at Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, plus two scenic cruises to Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park.
Don’t fret if mobility or age doesn’t let you get out and about - from your stateroom you’ll have sweeping views of America’s breathtaking 49th state, and onboard, you can hear from wildlife experts, dog sledders and mountaineers, who will share their knowledge and experience with you. Lawn games, a casino, a spa, shops and an art gallery are all at your fingertips, alongside a plethora of restaurants, a wine bar and a Chef’s Table experience. Each evening, the theatre, cinema, cigar lounge and dance hall await. Interior rooms start at $600, while balcony rooms are $3,600.
5. Colourful India and the Ganges, Avalon Waterways
Just because you’re past a certain age, it doesn’t mean your love for adventure or exploring new places has lessened. If you’re searching for senior cruises that delve into the heart of Asia, look no further than Avalon’s 13-Day India and the Ganges River cruise. India can be a challenging destination to navigate even for seasoned travelers, but this incredible tour provides expert guides, an excursion to the famous Taj Mahal, and watch daily life go by on India’s most spiritual river from your balcony.
The spacious dining rooms serve both regional and Western cuisine, allowing you to sample rich local flavors. Along with guides, headsets are provided for excursions, and in your downtime, the ship offers a library, spa and bar area for relaxing, plus an outdoor and indoor lounge to escape the heat. This unparalleled adventure is on sale for 2023, starting at $7,000 for a Deluxe Stateroom.