top cruise lines for seniors

7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel by sea

The best senior cruises mix adult-focused onboard activities with fascinating destinations ashore. No two retirees want the same thing from their travels. However, generally, most seniors have time to dedicate to longer itineraries.

Some have saved their money to enjoy a more premium cruise ship experience, but all are happy to snap up a cruise deal or find a promotion offering increased value from their cruise booking.

How did we choose the top cruises for seniors? We prioritized cruise lines that target couples and adults, rather than families, as well as cruise ships with fine dining, grownup entertainment and plenty of opportunities to socialize. We looked for destination-intensive cruises offering immersive cultural opportunities, bucket-list itineraries and a range of sailing lengths.

We dismissed the huge ships with their whiz-bang top-deck attractions, although these are ideal for grandparents on a multigenerational holiday with family. We also skipped the small expedition ships that require a level of physical fitness not all seniors possess.

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Based on those criteria, here are the seven best cruise lines for seniors who love to travel and are looking to spend more time at sea.

Viking 's 930-passenger ocean ships top our list of the best cruises for seniors because they are designed specifically for an adult crowd. No one younger than 18 is allowed on board, and all the programming is created with passengers aged 50-plus in mind.

These cruises are ideal for academic-minded seniors. Viking chairman Torstein Hagen says that he set out to create "the thinking person's cruise," and lectures and other destination-specific programming are the main form of entertainment on board. That doesn't mean Viking cruises are boring, though. In fact, the crowd-pleasing ABBA tribute show in the theater is not to be missed.

Viking ships are comfortable, homey oases done up in sophisticated Scandinavian decor.

Itineraries are focused on getting senior cruisers to key attractions around the world, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with a shore excursion each day included in the cruise fare. Thrifty retirees will appreciate the "no nickel and diming" philosophy and cruise fares that cover everything except cocktails and spa treatments.

Complimentary dining includes a specialty Italian restaurant and the Chef's Table, with its rotating tasting menus themed around international cuisines.

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

Also recommended for the senior and baby boomer crowd are Viking's river ships in Europe , Vietnam and Egypt (among other destinations) and the line's expedition products in Antarctica and on the Great Lakes , which have similarities to the ocean ships, including the all-inclusive pricing.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar 's small sailing ships and motorized yachts range from 148 to 342 passengers. Although kids 8 and older are allowed on board, you are unlikely to see many on these upscale vessels. Most Windstar cruisers are active seniors who come as couples, pairs of friends or solo travelers, looking for a destination-rich experience on ships where they won't feel lost in a crowd.

Windstar has two classes of ships. Older couples celebrating a milestone anniversary should choose a sailing ship, with its vast open deck space and picturesque sails that set the mood for romance. Seniors who prefer more personal space should seek out the 312-passenger motorized yachts with their all-suite accommodations.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise highlights on all ships include an outdoor deck party with a lavish buffet and late-night conga line, as well as meals created by James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs. (Windstar partners with the prestigious culinary organization.)

Because of their small size, all Windstar ships can visit quiet harbors and out-of-the-way places that big ships can't in destinations like Tahiti, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean .

Azamara Cruises

With four nearly identical ships holding fewer than 700 passengers each, Azamara has carved out a niche catering to well-traveled seniors looking to cruise in clubby surroundings.

The line's cruises are best for seniors who don't want to splurge on a fancier luxury product but still want an upscale level of ambiance, service and amenities. While kids aren't banned, the line makes clear on its website that it "discourages" passengers younger than 18.

Azamara passengers appreciate the boutique hotel-like decor, which includes faux fireplaces in the impressive libraries, called The Drawing Room on each vessel.

The line's destination-focused itineraries in Europe and elsewhere spend more time in ports than average ships, staying overnight in key destinations. This is ideal for passengers who want to explore on their own. The line also offers a complimentary "AzAmazing Evenings" program on every cruise. They feature cultural performances ashore in amazing destinations, such as Turkey's ancient city of Ephesus.

Related: 5 best adults-only cruise lines

Holland America

Holland America is one of the best cruise lines for seniors because it hits the sweet spot with its midsize ships. Carrying 2,668 passengers or fewer, these vessels offer big-ship amenities but lack the more over-the-top waterslides and thrill attractions found on megaships. The line is a great choice for baby boomers and older seniors who wish to enjoy the line's alternative dining options, casinos and choice of entertainment.

An older crowd does not mean a sedate group. Holland America hosts live music in a big way. Passengers dance the night away at venues that include B.B. King's Blues Club, featuring some of the best live bands at sea. Explorations Central (EXC) programming is designed to educate passengers about the destinations they visit, and a fun roster of other onboard pursuits includes a winemaking experience with Chateau Ste. Michelle.

The ships are also particularly accessible. Many staterooms offer roll-in showers and other assistive features. Vessels also are equipped with a lift system for pools and tenders.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

In addition to one-week cruises in the Caribbean and Alaska (the line's specialty), Holland America explores South America, the South Pacific and other destinations around the globe. The line also offers months-long world cruises.

Senior travelers with a penchant for traditional cruising will find Cunard 's ocean liners to be a top cruise option. Founded in 1840, the cruise line has a long legacy and is proud of its less casual vibe, which includes nightly dress codes. Go old-school with dress-up galas held in real ballrooms with high ceilings and twinkling chandeliers. Gentlemen hosts are on hand if ladies need a dance partner.

Those same ballrooms host daily afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches and scones with cream, served on fine china by white-gloved waiters. Other refined onboard activities include watching shows in Queen Mary 2's onboard planetarium, attending lectures by guest speakers, fencing, taking art classes and enjoying classical concerts.

Not everyone stays in a fancy suite, but seniors ready to splurge should book either Queens Grill or Princess Grill rooms for upscale accommodations and meals served in exclusive, intimate restaurants.

QM2 is the only ship that offers regular transatlantic service between Southampton, England, and New York. The 2,081-passenger Queen Elizabeth and 2,061-passenger Queen Victoria spend time in Europe and other destinations, and all three ships offer world cruises around the globe. When it debuts in 2024, the line's 3,000-passenger Queen Anne will also sail in the Mediterranean.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Retirees who have worked hard and are ready to treat themselves right will find that Regent Seven Seas Cruises is one of the best cruises for seniors looking for luxury.

The cruise line brags of operating the most luxurious ships afloat. It's hard to argue that point, especially on the line's latest ship, $545 million, 746-passenger, all-suite Seven Seas Grandeur. The ship boasts a football field's worth of marble, an impressive art collection and one of the most expensive suites at sea — a Regent Suite, which is priced at $11,000 per day, per couple.

Other high-end lines, such as Seabourn and Silversea , operate intimate ships with extraordinary service, accommodations and cuisine. However, Regent differs with its shore excursion-inclusive, one-stop-shopping fares and grand European hotel ambience — especially on the sister ships Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer.

Related: 12 best all-inclusive cruise lines

The other Regent ships are well-maintained 480- to 684-passenger older vessels. On all, if you don't feel like going to one of the restaurants, you can stay in your bathrobe and order a meal served course by course in your suite.

Also, except for summer and holiday periods, you are unlikely to find kids on board.

Regent sails to some 450 ports of call around the world, including world cruise itineraries, so senior travelers can find sailings to all the destinations they've been waiting to explore.

Oceania Cruises

Wellness-focused seniors love Oceania Cruises ' 648- to 1,210-passenger ships for their spa and fitness center and healthy food options. Foodies are drawn by the inspired dining. PBS host and cookbook author Jacques Pepin has a French bistro on the line's two largest ships, Marina and Riviera, and he's one of the line's culinary advisors. All the line's ships include impressive steakhouses , and some feature Red Ginger, an extraordinary modern take on Asian cuisine, as well as other eateries.

The ships provide an appealing country club-like ambiance, which is upscale without being fancy. Older passengers tend to be the sort who like to entertain themselves, though they might be distracted by the standout attraction of a real cooking school where expert chefs give classes on Marina and Riviera.

As a nod to solo travelers, the line is in the process of adding solo cabins designed and priced for one.

Oceania is known for destination-focused itineraries in the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe, among other places. Most are 10 nights or longer; world cruises are up to 180 days.

Bottom line

You'll find seniors on nearly every cruise line out there. Some older travelers are looking to explore the world, while others prefer cheap trips to beachy destinations.

Everyone's top choice will be different, but we think these seven lines represent the best senior cruises. They prioritize an adult-focused onboard experience and destination-intensive itineraries more readily accessible to retirees.

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9 Best Cruises for Seniors to Take As Soon As You Retire

From relaxing in the Caribbean to exploring the rivers of Europe, these are the best cruises for travelers over 60.

Cruises offer advantages for travelers of all ages, but for seniors , conveniences like being able to visit many destinations without packing and unpacking, arranging flights, transfers, checking in and out of hotels, finding restaurants, and booking excursions are especially important. And, for seniors with limited mobility, those cruise features just might mean the difference between taking a wonderful trip or staying home.

Generalizing about individuals of any age, especially seniors, just doesn't work. Physically, many are as active and capable as 25 year-olds, while others may have limitations that prevent long walks or managing heavy luggage. Some are curious and want to see every detail on an itinerary; others are content to relax and watch the scenery go by. Many are entertained by learning new things or hearing from expert lecturers, while others enjoy nightlife and live shows. Limited budgets are not unusual among seniors with fixed incomes, while others can afford to choose more luxurious options .

There are cruises that meet every need. In fact, most large ships have so much to offer that couples or groups of friends cruising together can choose the activities they enjoy most and then join for dinner or cocktails at the end of the day. Solo travelers have opportunities to meet others during meals, excursions, or onboard activities. Many cruise companies and ships pay particular attention to amenities that make travel easier and more appealing for seniors , especially those with special needs. Travelers as young as 50 may be eligible for special discounts on cruises, so it's never too early to start planning a cruise for the next phase of your life.

That said, here are the 9 best cruises for seniors, from the rivers to the seas.

River Cruises for Seniors

Increasing in popularity with new ships added each year, river cruising is ideal for seniors.

Ports are usually close to cities, sailing is smooth, ships are small (with usually no more than 200 passengers), and most shore excursions offer several levels of walking intensity. For those who prefer to stay onboard, comfortable lounges, outdoor seating, and stateroom balconies provide the perfect views.

European rivers are among the most traveled, especially the Rhine and Danube, with lovely towns to see and visit. Others are the Douro, Seine, and Rhone as well as the Mekong in Vietnam, the Nile in Egypt, and the Volga in Russia. Cruises range from a week to as long as three weeks when several rivers are combined. Specialty river cruises might focus on food, wine, or Christmas markets. These are the top river cruise lines for seniors.

River Cruise Lines

Viking River Cruises are adults-only and on several rivers. Hit the Danube to get from Vienna to Bucharest, sail the Nile with Egyptologists, or pass through Holland during tulip season. Catering to retirees, with most passengers over the age of 60, Viking is for the well-traveled cruiser looking for their next adventure. It considers itself “the thinking person’s cruise,” with excursions and onboard programming designed with educational and cultural impact in mind. Their "Longships" offer larger suites and outdoor dining. Musical performances, lectures, cooking demonstrations, and destination insights provide plenty to do onboard.  

AmaWaterways focuses on European cruises, but offers a few sailings through Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well. Their ship, AmaMagna, sails the Danube and offers twice the width of traditional river cruise ships, allowing for more lounge space on the Sun Deck as you glide to gorgeous locales, more intimate activities and excursions, and additional dining options. A range of shore excursions ensures there's something for everyone's interests and abilities at each port, from guided hikes and bike rides to cooking demonstrations. Everything is as convenient as possible with ports steps from points of interest, and concierge services that help travelers reserve their flights, airport transfers, and hotel reservations for before or after the cruise.  

Avalon Waterways offers river cruises as short as four or five days for those who want to "test the waters" before a longer commitment. They sail across Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, with special interest journeys like the Storyteller Series, which hosts authors like Candace Bushnell and Gillian Flynn onboard. With larger suites and fewer passengers, these cruises are perfect for passengers who want to stretch out and enjoy a quiet respite. Travelers can choose which off-boat activities they want to participate in (like picnics, kayaking, or painting) based on their abilities and what kind of trip they want. The plushly-appointed Panorama Suites with floor to ceiling windows and open-air balconies make your cabin one of the most comfortable places to watch the world pass by.

American Cruise Lines sails the rivers of the United States — including the Mississippi, the Ohio, the Hudson, and the Columbia and Snake Rivers — so you can go on an adventure without having to board a flight. Accommodations like large staterooms with interior entrances, elevators to all decks, and spacious public spaces will be appreciated by older passengers. Dine whenever you like on local fare (like gumbo on the Mississippi or a boiled seafood dinner in the Northeast) and enjoy the daily cocktail hour. Local experts join your trip and share knowledge and history about the area you're traveling through making your trip as educational as it is relaxing. 

Ocean Cruises for Seniors

For ocean cruises, ships are usually larger and trips are longer, although it depends on the destination. Megaships have capacities of around 2,000 to 6,000 passengers; mid-size ships carry about 1,000-2,500; small ships can hold around 1,200 or less. Naturally, more dining options, entertainment, pools, and public areas are available on larger vessels. For seniors who are more comfortable remaining on the ship, there are many opportunities to keep busy, and the ship is a destination in itself. Travelers with limited mobility may choose shore visits carefully or decide to enjoy the view from afar as they take advantage of the ship's amenities and social scene.

Many oceangoing ships have accessible cabins and elevators, wheelchair-width doorways, and even special equipment to aid in boarding a smaller boat for shore excursions. Several have medical care and physicians aboard — a benefit for all passengers, not just seniors — for emergencies or illness. Most cruise companies request that they be advised of their passengers' special needs at least 45 days before departure to ensure that proper accommodations are arranged.

Oceangoing Cruise Lines

Holland America Line travels to South America, Antarctica, Alaska, Canada, New England, the Caribbean, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. A line preferred by many seniors, it offers staterooms with mobility assistive features such as space for wheelchairs and scooters, roll-in showers, grab bars, and lift systems to make tenders (smaller ships that go ashore in some ports) wheelchair accessible. Provisions are made on most ships for deaf or hearing-impaired passengers, as well.

Seabourn Cruise Line cruises the world from Australia and New Zealand, Asia, India, Africa, Antarctica, Alaska, and the Caribbean, to the Arctic, Northern Europe, and more. Staterooms specially designed for guests who require mobility assistance are available. Service animals are permitted (but not pets or therapy companions) as long as proper paperwork and vaccinations are current. Provisions are available for passengers who have limited eyesight or hearing, including large print or Braille menus and visual emergency alarms.

Azamara 's mid-sized ships sail to the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Their “Destination Immersion” experiences mean longer trips with more time in port and overnights onshore, as well as onboard programming designed around your specific destination. Azamara takes an extra step even before the cruise begins by offering assistance getting on and off the ship for boarding and shore excursions. With advance notice, Azamara will even make arrangements for transportation from the airport to the pier.

Silversea 's small luxury ships range in size from 50 to 304 suites for travelers who prefer more intimate surroundings and atmosphere. Also, smaller ships can generally anchor closer to port cities, so disembarking is more convenient, and views are more interesting for those who stay on the ship. Your dedicated butler will help you with minutiae like unpacking and reservations, so you can just focus on relaxing. There's a low single supplement and "gentleman hosts" so you're never without a dance partner even if you're traveling solo. With gourmet meals, beverages (including premium spirits), gratuities, and activities all covered in the price, Silversea's cruises are not likely to attract children, which may be a plus for some seniors (as much as they might love their grandkids!).

Princess Cruises , considered by many to be one of the best cruise lines for seniors, offers many options: Various departure cities (including Florida for any local retirees), one-way or round-trip cruises, and Cruisetours that include extended land excursions. Rest assured that ships, destinations, and excursions are designed with accessibility in mind. Princess' crown jewel is their Alaskan cruises , during which passengers can meet sled dog puppies and handlers, hear from mountain climbers, fishermen, and loggers, and learn from experts about Alaskan wildlife without even leaving the ship. Most importantly, passengers can enjoy spectacular views from the comfort of the ship and marvel at sights unique to the 49th State.

Whether you pick an ocean sojourn or a river ride, cruises are some of the best ways to see the world. From the rivers of Europe to the blue-green waters of the Caribbean to U.S. trips you can board without ever getting on a plane, cruises take the convenience of a resort on the road. And as many cruise lines pay special mind to accessibility and inclusivity, they make traveling at any age (or solo) all the easier. 

If you’re a senior looking for some post-retirement fun or are a well-seasoned traveler in need of your next adventure, book a cruise today. 

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9 bucket list cruises for seniors and retirees.

These cruise lines appeal to older travelers with adults-only sailings, accessible staterooms and more.

Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Make the memories of a lifetime on a cruise for seniors and retirees.

Cruises are an often dreamt-about retirement goal, especially for long-time cruise lovers who have always been short on time. Retirement can be the ideal season of life to sail off into the sunset for several weeks, whether to far-off lands like Antarctica or a peaceful journey down the Danube. In some cases, seniors embrace their golden years by booking epic, monthslong voyages around the world.

Many small- and medium-sized ships cater to the over-60 crowd, but that doesn't mean guests will be relegated to shuffleboard and bingo games. Today's seniors still have plenty of adventures to experience and memories to make, both on board and on shore. The following cruise lines offer the top bucket list sailings for seniors and retirees.

Windstar Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, oceania cruises, holland america line, cunard line, aurora expeditions.

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Anyone who has ever fancied a near-private yacht-style cruise experience will love the vibe of Windstar Cruises. Each of its yachts holds between 148 and 342 guests, with a 1-to-1.5 crew-to-guest ratio. This makes for more intimate sailings – not only because there's simply less ship to maneuver on foot, but also because Windstar ships have access to ports that megaships aren't permitted to enter. The end result is the unique ability to explore lesser-known destinations and smaller cities. While Windstar is not a strictly adults-only cruise line , you won't see any little ones on board, either. Children must be at least 8 years old to sail on the line, which further adds to the high-end ambiance.

In 2021 and 2022, Windstar's Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend ships received a refresh. The three all-suite yachts were cut in half and enhanced with new suites and amenities, bringing the capacity to 312 passengers on each vessel. These Star Plus Class ships also boast new restaurants, a reimagined spa and fitness center, and more efficient engines, among other improvements. Elevators help make the Star Plus Class ships more accessible for anyone with limited mobility (note that Wind Class ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit do not have elevators). Additionally, Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend each have four wheelchair-accessible suites, which feature a smaller queen bed and reduced "wheel around" space.

On board, passengers can drop by the Open Bridge anytime for an impromptu lesson in chart reading, listen to live music in the Lounge or jump directly into the water from the Watersports Platform. Culinary highlights include restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, which serves a twist on modern Spanish cuisine by the 10-time Michelin-starred chef, as well as culinary shore excursions with hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market tours to explore fresh local ingredients.

The cruise industry is abuzz with interest in one of Windstar's newest itineraries, which introduces passengers to the Middle East. The Inaugural Sparkling Sands & Cities itinerary sets sail in November 2023, visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; and Muscat, Oman, among others. Foodies will be especially interested in the James Beard Foundation's Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf itinerary, scheduled to embark in February 2024. Windstar's other destinations include Asia, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific and more.

Read: How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Adam Hillier | Courtesy of Viking

Spanning seven continents via river, ocean and expedition vessels, Viking is considered a quintessential high-end cruise experience. For more than 25 years, it has provided destination-focused sailings designed to allow its guests to explore the world in supreme comfort. Its voyages particularly appeal to travelers older than 50 who are interested in science, history, culture and cuisine.

Every Viking cruise fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, onboard meals, beer and wine (with lunch and dinner service), Wi-Fi access, and all port charges and government taxes. On Viking's ocean and expedition vessels, guests also enjoy complimentary self-service laundry, access to the Thermal Suite in The Spa, high tea service, alternative restaurant dining and 24-hour room service. But the best part for older cruisers may be what's not included on Viking sailings: kids. This adults-only cruise line is dedicated to guests 18 and older.

Viking's fleet – with capacities ranging from 80 to 998 passengers (on river and ocean cruises, respectively) – feature elegant Scandinavian-style decor. The small ship cruises get closer to their destinations, spend more time in port and include more overnight stays, too.

One of Viking's newest ocean vessels, the all-veranda Viking Saturn, debuted in 2023 and focuses on European sailings. Its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean route from Venice to Athens is particular popular, with stops in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Greece. Another in-demand route is the Danube Christmas Delights itinerary on the Viking Longships, which visits enchanting villages, cultural capitals and iconic Christmas markets for a festive holiday cruise .

To suit their needs, guests can choose between different activity levels for walking tour-focused shore excursions. For bibliophiles, The Library on each ship is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute on the expedition vessels. Viking also holds exclusive partnerships with prestigious scientific institutions, which makes it possible for at least 36 experts – including field research scientists, mountain guides, submarine pilots and other specialists – to accompany passengers on each expedition journey.

Book a  Viking cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Billed as one of the world's most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines , Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features small ships with an average capacity of 120 guests and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the rivers of 1-to-2.4. Part of the allure of the small ship size is a more personalized travel experience that delivers passengers to destinations ocean liners aren't able to visit (such as the Venetian Lagoon, where large ships have been banned from entry).

Uniworld ships are akin to floating boutique hotels, designed to reflect the destinations in which they sail – a vast list that includes ports in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Guests will appreciate the exquisite details on board, including unique artwork from some of the most famous artists in the world (think: Pablo Picasso and David Hockney), handmade fabrics from local artisans and handcarved furnishings.

Additionally, Uniworld's all-inclusive cruise experience includes all onboard meals, which are made with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, as well as unlimited premium spirits and fine wines. In the base fare, voyages also include a selection of shore excursions, daily entertainment, fitness centers, wellness classes, airport transfers, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi access and more.

Uniworld makes it particularly easy to visit many of Europe's most enchanting Christmas towns on a single cruise, where passengers can visit the festive holiday markets and get all their seasonal shopping done. For seniors with more time to spare, the Rivers of the World Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This 55-day itinerary departs from Lima, Peru , in October 2024 and takes 40 guests across three continents via four ships to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Find  Uniworld Boutique River Cruises  on GoToSea.

This upscale brand recently relaunched under A&K Travel Group with a reimagined vision. Crystal Serenity (which holds up to 740 guests) and Crystal Symphony (carrying up to 606 passengers) underwent a combined $150 million dollar refurbishment that includes updated suites and new wellness offerings at the Aurōra spa. While sailing the high seas with Crystal, passengers' needs are met at every step of the way – a perk made possible by the nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. A dedicated butler in every stateroom and suite will help with packing and unpacking, stocking your fridge, making restaurant reservations, booking excursions and more.

Crystal offers impressive enrichment programming, hosting high-profile lecturers with backgrounds in sports, entertainment and science. Spend some time refining your technology skills at Computer University@Sea and perfecting your ballroom dance moves, photography abilities, golf swing or bridge game. There's also a well-stocked library containing books on a range of subjects, along with board games and a pickleball court.

Dining options on board include Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian dining venue developed by Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Unlike some other cruise lines that charge a fee for each specialty dining reservation, Crystal allows guests to enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for sailings of 11 days or less. After dinner, nightly entertainment can be found in several venues, such as live music in the Galaxy Lounge.

Crystal sails on itineraries of varying length to the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa and the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, and Asia. If you're planning a bucket list trip, consider the line's 123-night 2025 World Cruise, which travels to 62 destinations across 31 countries between Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Barcelona, Spain .

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Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Seniors with a penchant for epicurean delights tend to gravitate toward Oceania Cruises for their cruise vacations – it's known for having one of the finest culinary programs at sea. This cruise line focuses on small ship luxury, with seven ships currently in service carrying between 670 and 1,250 passengers each. An eighth ship, Allura, is set to debut in 2025.

Newer ships like the Vista – the first of the Allura class vessels, which joined the fleet in May 2023 – have wheelchair-accessible rooms and a plethora of onboard culinary venues. A few highlights include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes; The Bakery at Baristas, serving freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant Ember, an upscale American eatery. Don't miss the Cellar Master's Wine Luncheon: a two-hour, hand-selected tasting led by the head sommelier that features a five-course menu paired with premium wines for each dish.

Senior cruisers will enjoy the Aquamar Spa's signature massage therapies, which use natural ingredients and modern techniques to release stress and tension. The Vitality Center offers a steam room, a thalassotherapy pool and heated lounge beds for extra relief. Onboard entertainment on Oceania, meanwhile, includes musical performances and immersive shows with dance numbers led by "Dancing With the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart. The Culinary Center is a fan favorite for seniors, offering the opportunity to practice cooking techniques and learn about the unique flavor profiles of regional dishes.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a location Oceania doesn't sail to, with cruises to Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, Antarctica and more, as well as transoceanic voyages and 180-day world cruises. Oceania also provides a good overall value, thanks to its included specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, round-trip airfare and transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

Explore  Oceania Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

As a premium, midsize cruise line, Holland America Line offers plenty of destinations, excursions and activities aligned to an older audience. The smaller ship size, which averages around 2,000 passengers per sailing, allows for many of the ships to dock in ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, getting passengers even closer to the destinations they're visiting. For older passengers who may have limited mobility, the option to simply disembark the ship without waiting for a tender or other means of transportation can make or break a trip.

Holland America Line, though family-friendly, offers myriad excursions that are primarily adult-oriented and open to all types of adventurers. Shore excursions are clearly marked with an activity level ranging from easy to strenuous, from leisurely wine tastings and relaxing strolls through ancient towns to ATV rides through the jungle and dog-sledding on a glacier only accessible via helicopter.

Onboard entertainment and activities are plentiful; guests often enjoy the multiple music lounges and venues on each ship, along with hosted programs such as bingo and trivia. For seniors who can't get enough of the pickleball trend, Holland America Line has partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring branded courts and equipment on board. After all that action on the court, unwind in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon with a rejuvenating treatment. (Pro tip: Add on the Thermal Suite for access to the healing hydrotherapy circuit and heated, tiled loungers that will melt all your cares away.)

The numerous onboard dining options bring together cuisines and flavors from all over the world, with specialty restaurants featuring menus developed by a team of master chefs known as Holland America's Culinary Council. In addition to casual dining in the Lido Market and multicourse affairs in The Dining Room, each ship also features the Pinnacle Grill, an onboard steakhouse offering high-end meats and seafood. Other specialty restaurants vary by ship and may include Italian eatery Canaletto and the French-inspired Rudi's Sel de Mer.

Holland America Line sails all over the world. It does an especially nice job with its Greek island cruises and Adriatic Sea adventures. One of the line's newest ships, Rotterdam , is a crowd-pleaser with its sleek design details and an onboard art collection valued at more than $4.1 million. Still, longtime favorites like the refurbished Oosterdam and Eurodam host plenty of happy guests.

Compare  Holland America Line  cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Azamara

Another all-inclusive, senior-friendly brand is Azamara, which boasts a long list of perks covered in the base fare. Your one-time payment covers meals and beverages, including standard spirits, international beers and a limited amount of wine by the glass; you can upgrade to a beverage package if you'd like access to premium brands. Other included amenities range from self-service laundry to gratuities to special cultural evenings featuring onboard or onshore performances by locals.

There are four ships in Azamara's fleet. Each carries up to 702 passengers, so they still fit comfortably into the small ship category and can access less-visited ports than larger vessels. Destinations on Azamara include ports throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, and the Caribbean; there are also transoceanic itineraries. If spending roughly half a year on a cruise ship sounds like your ideal retirement plan, consider the Azamara World Voyage in 2025. Over 155 nights, you'll visit 37 countries.

Each of the line's ships has staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, and Azamara has created customized shore excursion tours for guests with disabilities as well. Accessible tours are designed for full-time wheelchair users or guests unable to navigate motor-coach steps.

There are plenty of entertainment options on board, including Club Crooner's hits from current and classic songbirds, as well as ship-specific venues with various song and dance performances. Plus, every cruise hosts a White Night signature dinner and entertainment event on the pool deck (so be sure to pack your favorite white attire). Unwind with darts, arts and crafts, pingpong, shuffleboard, trivia contests, bingo and dance lessons. Don't miss opportunities to attend lectures through the enrichment program.

Find an  Azamara  cruise on GoToSea.

Christopher Ison | Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line's ocean liners have sailed between the U.K. and New York since 1840 – and the brand's relationship with the British monarchy is integral to its heritage. As such, each ship is named after a British queen. The newest ship, Queen Anne, joins the fleet in 2024.

In keeping with its history, Cunard Line has several signature experiences that help set the brand apart. Afternoon tea is a Cunard tradition observed daily in the Queen's Room; expect white-gloved waiters serving scones and finger sandwiches alongside infused teas in silver teapots (add Champagne for an additional fee). During gala evenings, guests don tuxedos and ballgowns for a sophisticated celebration you won't soon forget. Themes range from Masquerade to Roaring 20s; you'll get a heads-up before you pack your cruise attire .

Each of the four stateroom grades has its own dedicated fine dining restaurant with excellent service and indulgent menus, though there are several casual dining options as well – not to mention specialty dining venues for an additional fee. A host of activities will keep you busy day and night, including a library, open-air pools, fitness facilities, live music, theater performances, guest speaker events, board games, film screenings, art classes, planetarium shows (on Queen Mary 2) and group dance classes.

Accessible shore experiences are available in many ports, ranging from lower activity-level tours to adaptations for wheelchair users. Accessible staterooms are available on Queen Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 ; these come with modifications like wider entryways, nonslip bathroom floors and shower seats.

Explore  Cunard Line  deals on GoToSea.

Scott Portelli | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Nothing says "once-in-a-lifetime" quite like embarking on an expedition to the world's most remote destinations – and, specifically, to Antarctica. For cruisers looking to explore this far-off land, Aurora Expeditions is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Founded by legendary adventurer Greg Mortimer, the brand sends an education-focused expedition team on each voyage, with a ratio of about one team member per every eight passengers. With an average of just 132 cruisers on these sailings, you'll get more one-on-one time with your expedition team.

Seniors can climb aboard Aurora Expeditions' Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle ship for innovative itineraries to the Great White Continent. When the ship isn't pausing to watch breaching whales, passengers can kayak between icebergs, visit penguin colonies or take guided hikes across the tundra. Aurora describes its cruises as "100% climate neutral," with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

All of Aurora Expeditions' voyages let travelers explore at their own pace, making it a great option for all ages. There are many included activities on each expedition, such as bird-watching, photography, lectures on wildlife, Zodiac cruises and near-shore excursions. The line will even outfit you with Muck boots and waterproof polar jackets. The entire voyage is laid-back, with an informal dress code.

On board, all cabins have a view of the ocean, and most have their own balcony. Tips are included in the cost of your cruise, and guests can enjoy a complimentary house wine or beer with dinner. Look forward to hearty dishes to help fuel your activities, with some buffet-style meals, a la carte options and a reservations-required restaurant on each ship.

Read: The Top Antarctica Cruises

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the mid-'90s and has since visited dozens of destinations around the globe. Whether she's on the newest megaship, an older small ship or a luxury yacht, she loves life at sea. She used extensive research and her decades of experience as a cruiser to write this article (she has taken two cruises with her 70-year-old dad just this year). Schildhouse covers the travel industry for myriad top-tier outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, AARP, Fodor's, Reader's Digest and Insider.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

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Senior Citizen Cruises: Everything You Need to Know

Last updated: February 6th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

Whether you’re young or young at heart, cruising at any age is one of the most exciting and enlightening ways to see the world. For older adults, aka those over 55 or “senior citizens,” cruises are a particularly carefree way to travel.

Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned cruiser, you may be a bit more discerning when it comes to what you’re looking for in a cruise vacation. Luckily, Celebrity Cruises checks all the boxes for senior cruises. We offer over 300 exciting cruise destinations and itineraries worldwide, a wide variety of luxury staterooms and cruise amenities, world-class dining venues, thrilling entertainment, and easy-to-navigate cruise ships.

Are there cruises for seniors?

While we don’t offer specific senior citizen cruises, older guests can be assured they’ll have an unforgettable cruise experience on any Celebrity ship wherever they choose to cruise around the world.

Cruising is an easy way to experience multiple destinations in one vacation while enjoying the amenities and activities offered on a luxury cruise ship.

Read: Multi-Country Cruises Around the World

It’s also an excellent opportunity to spend time with multiple family members, reconnecting and enjoying a shared experience. Celebrity makes it easy to plan family reunion cruises , as well as anniversaries and vow renewals, for small groups or large.

Celebrity Cruise ships offer a variety of staterooms, including accessible options for those who may have mobility, sight, or hearing needs, and on some ships, single occupancy staterooms for those cruising solo .

Onboard dining includes 24-hour room service, flexible reservation times for dinner, options for a variety of diets, and lighter fare at venues throughout the ship.

Whether you want to sit back and relax on a pool deck lounger or be on the go from early morning until late night, senior citizen cruises accommodate every level of interest and activity.

Take a leisurely or brisk walk or jog on deck, check out the variety of classes offered at the fitness center, or pamper yourself with spa appointments for everything from massages to facials and body wraps.

Read: 15 Ways to Stay Fit On a Cruise

At every one of our port destinations, you can book shore excursions to satisfy a variety of interests tailored to your preferred level of activity, such as private journeys arranged exclusively for you, small-group discovery tours, and destination highlights that take you to the must-see landmarks and iconic sights in each port.

Are there things to consider when booking senior citizen cruises?

There are a few things that will make cruising as a senior a safe, hassle-free, and enjoyable experience.

Start by looking at a ship’s accommodations and see if they fit your specific needs, desires, and interests.

The Retreat® is our all-inclusive luxury vacation experience perfect for guests looking for the best accommodations, amenities, and service.

For spa lovers, AquaClass staterooms feature spa-inspired amenities and are located close to our onboard spa. AquaClass guests receive unlimited access to the Sea Thermal Suite or the Persian Garden, depending on the ship.

Receive an extra personal touch with our Concierge Class staterooms , which include extra perks like personalized concierge service and an exclusive destination seminar.

Review the ship’s deck plans, which will show you stateroom categories, locations, and configurations, dining venues, amenities such as pools, sundecks, and hot tubs, designated adult-only areas, social gathering spaces, spa and fitness facilities, and more.

Reviewing the deck plan will allow you to choose the best stateroom that’s close to an elevator for less walking, or a stateroom in an area that’s closest to where you’ll spend the most time aboard, such as the pool deck, the spa and fitness area, or dining venues.

Are Celebrity ships good for seniors?

Celebrity Cruises was voted best premium cruise line for 11 years in a row for a reason. The luxurious accommodations, stylish design, innovative spaces, and world-class dining you’ll find onboard Celebrity Cruises is perfect for people of all ages—seniors included.

Celebrity’s excellent and well-rounded crew ensures that every guest, from the youngest to the oldest, is given the utmost consideration. Throughout your journey, you’ll receive personalized attention from our crew, from the time you board the ship up until the moment you bid farewell to your favorite bartender, dining room staff, and room attendant.

Are there accessible staterooms and venues on cruise ships?

Celebrity Cruises is committed to safe, comfortable, stress-free, and enjoyable travel for all our guests. To that end, we offer accessible staterooms on each of our ships.

Read: Accessible Travel Guide

Accessible staterooms are specially designed for cruisers with disabilities. Our accessible staterooms have carefully considered features such as wider doors with removed door sills for convenient wheelchair access.

Read: Cruises for Seniors With Disabilities

Select staterooms have a five-foot turning radius for ease in navigating and accessible verandas with wheelchair-accommodating balconies so you can enjoy the view.

Additional features like lowered clothes bars in the closet, roll-in showers with handheld showerheads, grab bars, and fold-down shower benches are standard in accessible rooms, as are lower sinks and vanities, higher toilets, and ramped thresholds in the bathroom.

An accessible stateroom can also be customized for guests with hearing or sight special needs. We offer teletypewriters (TTY), which are portable room kits with a visual-tactile alert system for door knocking, telephone ringing, alarm clock, and smoke detector, plus closed captioning in every television in our staterooms.

Accessible rooms are held for cruise travelers with disabilities until all other non-accessible staterooms in that category are fully booked. Since there are only a limited number of these rooms, it’s best to book early and fill out the required Special Needs Form.

Celebrity ships are also accessible with wide corridors, conveniently located elevators, and open and inviting public spaces.

You’ll also find lifts for one pool and one whirlpool on each ship, lowered slot machines and playing tables in the casino, and accessible public bathrooms. Gradual inclines lead into public rooms, and automatic doors are available on Solstice-class and Edge-series ships.

Celebrity’s commitment to accessibility extends to assistance with an airport to pier transfer when arranged in advance; assistance in boarding and departing the ship; and assistance in reaching areas of the ship that may not be accessible.

When it comes to shore excursions, there are a number of accessible tours in destinations across the globe.

On accessible tours, vans with wheelchair lifts are provided. Make sure to book in advance to ensure the availability of equipped vans.

What can seniors do on the ship?

One of the most exciting aspects of a senior citizen cruise experience is the infinite variety of activities for guests of every age.

From early morning to the late evening, there are engaging, educational, and entertaining things to do throughout the ship. Of course, there’s also the option to do nothing at all.

Start Your Day

Enjoy a leisurely morning coffee on your veranda by ordering from our 24-hour room service menu. Check out the day’s activities and offerings in Celebrity Today, the daily newsletter delivered to your room each evening during turndown service.

If you love the idea of a full-service breakfast to start off the day, head to the Main Restaurant. If you’re on the go, stop at one of the cafes for a cappuccino and freshly baked pastry, or grab a juice or smoothie at the Spa Cafe after a leisurely deck walk.

Like the variety of a breakfast buffet? Head to the Ocean View Cafe and have a breakfast feast, complete with a fabulous ocean view from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Tour the Ship

During a leisurely day at sea, get acquainted with your ship and discover its magnificent public spaces, lounges, and bars.

On one of our insider access ship tours, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at areas of the ship typically reserved for our crew. Explore the engine control room, see the main galley where meals are prepared, and visit the bridge where the captain charts the way to your destination.

Explore Eden

On Celebrity Edge or Apex, visit Eden, an immersive and interactive venue where you can indulge your senses from morning until night. This three-level transformational space is a cool, calming place to relax early in the day and breathe in the aroma of fresh herbs in the garden.

Take a Class

Brush up on your culinary skills at a hands-on cooking class, or become even more wine-savvy at a wine-and-food-pairing seminar hosted by our onboard master sommeliers.

Appreciate Art

Each Celebrity ship has its own amazing collection of contemporary art. Enjoy browsing the ship’s permanent art collection, attend an art lecture, or bid on works of art for sale at an onboard auction.

Spend Time Outdoors

At the adults-only* Solarium, unwind on a sundeck lounger with that book you’ve been meaning to read, or take a refreshing dip in the pool.

On our Solstice-class ships, head up to The Lawn Club for a game of bocce or croquet on real grass. Practice your putting, have a picnic lunch, or listen to a live concert.

On Edge or Apex, order a salad, flatbread pizza, or classic burger at the casual Rooftop Garden Grill, then stroll the greenery and natural art spaces of the Rooftop Garden. On select ships, you can also enjoy a game of pickleball on the sports court.

*Solarium kid’s hours available from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm on select itineraries – Antarctica, Alaska, and the Baltics.  

Read: Things to Do Outdoors on a Cruise Ship

Book Shore Excursions and Destination Lectures

Attend scheduled lectures on your port destinations, which will give you a deeper appreciation for local culture, customs, and history. Stop by the Shore Excursions Desk to book activities in port.

Visit The Spa

Get pampered with one of the rejuvenating treatments available at our luxurious onboard spa. Treat yourself to a mani/pedi and hairstyling just because or in preparation for the ship’s Evening Chic night.

Schedule a facial and get skincare tips from The Spa’s professional aestheticians. Unwind with a soothing stone massage or body wrap.

Try aqua therapy treatments like herbal steam baths and Finnish saunas at the soothing Persian Gardens (complimentary for AquaClass guests).

On Edge or Apex ships, the SEA Thermal Suite (also complimentary for AquaClass guests), offers Hammam, a modern take on the Turkish Bath, a state-of-the-art collection of deep table massages, a Salt Room, and over 120 spa therapies and treatments. You can even schedule acupuncture or advanced treatments at MedSpa.

Indulge in Retail Therapy

Stroll the marble walkways of the European-inspired shopping arcade on board. Shop in luxury boutiques and find the perfect outfit for upcoming shore excursions, something “wow” for Evening Chic nights, a lovely piece of jewelry as a memento of your trip, or leather goods and other cruise gifts for your loved ones back home.

Get Connected

At the iLounge, Celebrity’s 24/7 computer lounge, use Apple computers, take technology classes, and learn tips and tricks from the Certified Apple Experts who staff the lounge.

Pose at the Photo Studio

Are you cruising with family or for a special occasion such as an anniversary, special birthday, or holiday? This is a great time to gather everyone and head to the ship’s photo studio for a family portrait taken by a professional photographer.

Our professional roving photographers also take plenty of candid photos of you and your family throughout your cruise, so make sure to check out the Photo Gallery to see snapshots of your favorite moments on board.

Dine in Style

Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its world-class cuisine, and our expert culinary teams make sure that each meal at every dining venue is sublime.

Read: How to Eat Healthy on a Cruise

The Main Restaurant serves a large menu of classic and modern specialties in a two-story setting that manages to be inviting and intimate at the same time.

In specialty restaurants, you’ll find a truly unique culinary experience that will delight your taste buds.

In Tuscan Grille , traditional Southern Italian dishes including fresh handmade pasta, USDA Prime steaks, and a regional Italian wine list are highlights of the menu.

Murano is our French-inspired dining venue with a number of signature dishes prepared tableside. For a true gastronomic treat, try the Five Senses food and wine pairing menu.

Le Petit Chef is a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines great food and great fun. This 3-D experience is perfect for a festive multigenerational family dinner. Enjoy watching animated tiny chefs prepare your meal right on your plate, just as your server delivers the real food to your table.

Blu , the exclusive restaurant for AquaClass guests, serves a menu of fresh, bold flavors and a wine list of sustainable and biodynamic wines in a beautifully modern setting.

For guests of The Retreat, Luminae offers exclusive menu items not available at any other dining venue on the ship, and special dishes created by our Global Culinary Brand Ambassador, Chef Daniel Boulud.

Be Entertained

Evenings aboard Celebrity ships are lively and exciting, with Broadway-worthy shows in the theater, bands, jazz, and folk concerts at The Lawn Club, impromptu performances by our entertainers that can pop up anywhere, plus concerts, DJ music, cabaret entertainment, and silent disco.

What are the best cruise destinations for seniors?

When choosing the perfect itinerary for a senior citizen cruise vacation, consider the climates, destinations, and things to do that you’re most interested in.

Do you want to unwind on stunning Caribbean beaches? Experience the historic landmarks and ancient sites of the Old World? Looking to explore far-flung destinations like South America or Australia and New Zealand?

No matter where you sail, you’ll find shore excursions that cater to guests of all ages, activity levels, and interests.

Senior Citizen Cruises to Alaska

Alaska cruises are popular for travelers of all ages, especially senior cruisers and multigenerational families.

For smaller crowds, cruise during shoulder season months in April or May. Summer cruises to Alaska are great for a memory-making multigenerational vacation when the kids are out of school and parents can use up their vacation days.

Caribbean Cruises for Seniors

Swaying palms, enticing blue waters, and exquisite beaches are hallmarks of the Caribbean islands. Caribbean cruises sail year-round, so you’ll have a range of itineraries, departure ports, and itinerary lengths to choose from.

On an Ultimate Caribbean cruise itinerary, explore the beautiful islands of Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Maarten. Enjoy beach excursions, duty-free shopping, swimming and snorkeling, wonderfully fresh seafood, and the inviting local culture.

Cruise the Western Caribbean on a five-night itinerary sailing to the Florida Keys and Cozumel, Mexico, with two nights at sea to relax and luxuriate in all the excitement and activities your ship has to offer.

On an Eastern Caribbean and Bahamas cruise, explore the Old Fort at San Juan, Puerto Rico, shop for luxury goods in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, savor the French-influenced food in St. Maarten, and bask on the white sand beaches of Tortola and the Bahamas.

Norwegian Fjords

Always wanted to see the fjords of Norway? On a Norway cruise , sail to the stunning ports of Bergen, Alesund, Geiranger, and Stavanger.

In this beautiful country, you’ll see the old wharf, walk the cobblestoned town of Bryggen, sample traditional Norwegian food , visit the Geiranger Fjord with its dramatic waterfalls and towering mountainsides, and take an easy hike on Pulpit Rock in Stavanger, which rises over 1,800 feet above the sea.

Scandinavia

Travel to Scandinavia on a cruise with overnight stay in Copenhagen, where you can spend time at Tivoli Gardens, see the city from the waterside, and experience “hygge,” the concept of coziness, warmth, and comfort.

Other ports of call include Stockholm, Sweden and Tallinn, Estonia.

Read: Things to Do in Tallinn

The Galapagos

Senior cruisers looking for an eco-adventure are sure to find it on a seven-night all-inclusive cruise to the Galapagos Islands .

On Celebrity Flora, enjoy unparalleled luxury while exploring the incredible marine and land wildlife of the volcanic islands that make up the Galapagos.

Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Hawaii

If you have the pleasure of extended time to travel at your leisure, a perfect senior cruise is our 17-night cruise to Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Hawaii that embarks from Honolulu and disembarks in Sydney.

Cruise to Maui, then on to Bora Bora and French Polynesia—some of the best Pacific islands to visit . Cross the International Dateline, then sail on to Auckland, Bay of Islands, and finally to Sydney, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere.

Read: Best Things to Do in Bora Bora

Back-to-Back Cruises

One of the best ways to celebrate being a senior citizen is to book an extended vacation on a back-to-back cruise. Consider a back-to-back with an 11-day cruise from Vancouver , British Columbia to the Hawaiian Islands, then embark on the 17-night Honolulu and Tahiti cruise that disembarks in Sydney.

Use Flights by Celebrity to book all of your airline reservations to get to your embarkation point. With Flights by Celebrity, you can be assured by our Lowest Price Guarantee, use the airline points you’ve accrued, enjoy 24/7 assistance so you’ll never miss a cruise due to delayed or canceled flights, and have the option to book now and pay later.

Which shore excursions can seniors take?

One of the joys of senior citizen cruises is being able to explore all of the destinations you visit at your own pace. Learning about the culture, customs, history, and geography of those destinations is an easy way to enrich your vacation.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Wonders of the World during multigenerational trips and make memories that will stay with your family for a lifetime.

Once you’ve booked your cruise, you can browse shore excursions on our website and sort by interest, activity level, and accessibility.

See the ruins of Pompeii or go on a wine-tasting excursion in Tuscany.

Swim with gentle stingrays or experience the wonders under the sea without getting wet on a fascinating glass-bottom boat tour in the Caribbean.

Take a restorative dip in the hot spring baths at Castries, St. Lucia; Kagoshima, Japan; or Reykjavik, Iceland.

See exceptional wildlife in their natural habitat and the spectacular wilderness of Alaska during a gentle hike or boat tour of the Last Frontier.

Book Your Senior Citizen Cruise

If you’re ready to explore the world as a senior traveler, browse our cruise itineraries and book online, or call one of our vacation specialists today.

Related Itineraries

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Discovering the Best Cruise Lines for Seniors Over 60

Dec 6, 2023 | CRUISE TIPS | 0 comments

The Best Cruises for Seniors – An Introduction

As we gracefully age, life becomes a collection of moments, and what better way to curate unforgettable memories than by embarking on a luxury cruise? In fact, according to a review published by the Cruise Lines Industry Association (CLIA) , the average age of cruisers in 2022 was 47, with the over-sixties representing 34% of the total. In this article, we look at the best cruises for seniors and our thoughts on the best cruise lines to choose from.

Cruise vacations are not just for the young and adventurous; they are tailor-made for seniors seeking relaxation, enrichment, and the joy of discovering new horizons. In fact In this extended exploration, we will delve deeper into the best cruise lines offering the best cruises for senior catering to the discerning tastes of individuals over 60 and promise an indulgent escape into the lap of luxury.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Seven Seas Explorer in Santorini, Greece

“An Unrivalled Experience” Regent Seven Seas Cruises stands out as an epitome of luxury and sophistication. With their all-inclusive approach, seniors can savour the joy of seamless travel, allowing them to focus solely on creating memories. From world-class cuisine to meticulously curated shore excursions, Regent ensures that every detail is attended to with the utmost care.

Picture yourself enjoying a gourmet dinner while witnessing a breathtaking sunset over the open sea—an experience that encapsulates the essence of Regent’s commitment to excellence. It is very impressive, and it offers some of the best senior cruises available. For a truly all-inclusive, more immersive visual experience, consider capturing the onboard entertainment’s elegance and the suites’ sheer opulence.

Our favourites are Regent’s Explorer class ships – Seven Seas Splendor, Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Grandeur. You can read our experiences using the links below. Related: Cruising Returns with Seven Seas Splendor Also: A Grand Preview – Seven Seas Grandeur

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Symphony in Hong Kong Harbour

Enriching the Mind and Soul Crystal Cruises has long been synonymous with opulence, but its dedication to intellectual enrichment sets it apart for seniors. Onboard lectures, cultural programs, and destination-focused activities are crafted to engage the mind and soul. Seniors can immerse themselves in a world of learning while enjoying the lavish amenities that Crystal Cruises is renowned for.

Consider capturing the essence of these enriching moments with photos of passengers attending insightful lectures or partaking in a cultural workshop against the backdrop of the ocean. Dive deeper into Crystal Cruises’s cultural immersion experiences, showcasing how seniors can truly broaden their horizons. Following the demise of Crystal under the umbrella of the Abercrombie and Kent Travel group, there may be senior cruise deals available to entice more experienced cruises back to the cruise line.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Serenity in Exploration Viking Ocean Cruises takes seniors on a journey of exploration, promising a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure. With smaller ships designed for an intimate experience, Viking allows seniors to navigate the world’s most scenic destinations effortlessly.

Capture the magic of seniors strolling through historic European cities or marvelling at the wonders of nature in the Norwegian fjords—each moment on a Viking cruise is a testament to the serenity of exploration. Extend the narrative by detailing specific itineraries, highlighting the unique experiences available at each destination.

Silversea Cruises

Silver Moon in Barbados

Intimate Luxury at Sea Silversea Cruises offers an unparalleled all-inclusive cruise experience for seniors seeking a more intimate setting. With smaller ships that can access exclusive ports, Silversea provides a sense of exclusivity and personalized service. Imagine capturing the joy on a senior’s face as they savour a private dining experience under the stars or unwind in their spacious suite with panoramic ocean views.

Silversea is about creating moments that are as unique as they are unforgettable. Expand on the personalized services and exclusive experiences that set Silversea Cruises apart, demonstrating how every aspect is tailored to the preferences of seniors.

Our favourite Silversea ships are Silver Monn and Silver Spirit, where we experienced the Monaco Grand Prix.

Related: Monaco Grand Prix on a Cruise Related: Silversea Silver Moon Review

Seabourn Ovation in Cobh, Ireland

A Symphony of Luxury Seabourn takes all-inclusive luxury cruising to new heights, providing an experience akin to a symphony of opulence. With intuitive service and carefully crafted itineraries, seniors can revel in the beauty of each destination.

Picture a senior couple enjoying a private veranda breakfast while sailing through the azure waters of the Caribbean or dancing under the stars during an exclusive evening event. Seabourn ensures that every moment onboard is a harmonious celebration of life.

Elaborate on Seabourn’s diverse itineraries, showcasing the range of destinations and experiences available to seniors, and delve deeper into the exclusive events that make each voyage a symphony of luxury. Our favourite Seabourn ships are Seabourn Sojourn, Encore and Ovation.

Related:  Seabourn Ovation Review

River Cruises

Uniworld SS Bon Voyage in Bordeaux, France

River cruises offer seniors an intimate and culturally immersive experience. Imagine sailing through Europe’s heart, passing historic landmarks along the Danube or Rhine rivers. Smaller river cruise ships foster camaraderie, and docking in charming towns allows seniors to explore cultural treasures effortlessly.

Visualize sipping local wines on the deck or strolling through cobblestone streets during shore excursions . River cruises provide a unique blend of relaxation and cultural discovery, making a River Cruise an ideal choice for seniors who appreciate both.

Our particular favourites include Crystal River Cruises (now Riverside Cruises) and Uniworld.

Related: Crystal Ravel Review Related: The Ultimate Guide to River Cruising

Cruising after 60 is not just a journey; it’s an opportunity to embrace life’s luxuries, explore the world, and create lasting memories.

Whether it’s the refined elegance of Regent Seven Seas, the intellectual stimulation of Crystal Cruises, the intimate luxury of Silversea, the serenity of Viking Ocean Cruises, or the symphony of opulence with Seabourn, each cruise line caters to the unique desires of seniors over 60. So, set sail into the golden years with style because the best is yet to come. Bon voyage!

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Welcome all cruise enthusiasts! We’re Mike & Anita, your spirited guides to cruising the high seas (and Rivers), and we’ve clocked in over 600 days at sea.

This blog is dedicated to all you cruise lovers out there. It is a place to dive into the wonderful world of cruising. Join us on this exciting voyage where we share not just tips but insider secrets and money-saving gems about cruising.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time cruiser, get ready to explore, learn, and soak up the joy of our seafaring adventures. Happy Cruising! 🚢✨

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Cruises for Seniors

Cruising is a popular vacation choice for seniors looking for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway. With a wide range of cruise lines, destinations, and activities to choose from, it’s important to find the right cruise that caters to the needs and preferences of seniors. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the best cruises for seniors, including senior-friendly amenities, accessible cabins, medical facilities, popular destinations, and a variety of activities and entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for a Caribbean cruise for relaxation, a European river cruise for cultural exploration, or an Alaskan cruise for nature lovers, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the key takeaways for planning the perfect cruise for seniors.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a cruise line with senior-friendly amenities
• Look for cruise lines that offer accessible cabins
• Consider cruise lines with medical facilities onboard
• Caribbean cruises are great for relaxation
• European river cruises offer cultural exploration

Choosing the Right Cruise Line

Cruise Lines with Senior-Friendly Amenities

When choosing a cruise line for seniors, it’s important to consider the amenities that are specifically tailored to their needs. Some cruise lines offer teen-friendly cruises , providing a great opportunity for multi-generational family vacations. These cruises feature activities and entertainment options that cater to teenagers, ensuring they have a memorable and enjoyable experience onboard. From dedicated teen clubs to exciting sports facilities, there’s something for every teenager to enjoy on these cruises.

Cruise Lines with Accessible Cabins

When choosing a cruise line for seniors, it’s important to consider the availability of accessible cabins . These cabins are designed to accommodate passengers with mobility issues, making it easier for them to navigate the ship and enjoy their cruise vacation . Some cruise lines even offer specialized amenities and services for passengers with disabilities. It’s recommended to check with the cruise line in advance to ensure that they have accessible cabins available for your desired itinerary. Additionally, some cruise lines may require passengers with mobility issues to provide medical documentation or travel with a companion for safety reasons. Planning ahead and communicating your needs to the cruise line can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for seniors with mobility challenges.

Cruise Lines with Medical Facilities

When choosing a cruise line, it is important to consider the medical facilities available onboard. Seniors may have specific health needs that require immediate attention, and having a well-equipped medical center can provide peace of mind. Some cruise lines go above and beyond by offering 24/7 medical staff and advanced emergency equipment . These facilities are staffed by experienced medical professionals who can handle a wide range of medical issues. In case of an emergency, the medical staff can provide urgent care and stabilize the situation until further assistance is available. It is reassuring to know that help is just a call away, especially when traveling to remote Tauck destinations 2023 .

Destinations for Senior Cruisers

Caribbean Cruises for Relaxation

Caribbean cruises are a popular choice for seniors looking for a relaxing vacation. With their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm weather, the Caribbean offers the perfect setting for a stress-free getaway. Exploring Port Canaveral is one of the highlights of a Caribbean cruise. This bustling port in Florida is known for its vibrant atmosphere and numerous attractions. From exploring the Kennedy Space Center to enjoying the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Port Canaveral. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Port Canaveral has it all.

European River Cruises for Cultural Exploration

European River Cruises offer a unique opportunity for seniors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Europe. These cruises take passengers along picturesque rivers, allowing them to visit charming towns and cities that are steeped in history. From the stunning architecture of Vienna to the romantic canals of Amsterdam, there is something for everyone on a European River Cruise. Whether you’re interested in exploring art, music, or cuisine, these cruises offer a wide range of cultural experiences. Cruise vacations on European rivers provide a relaxed and intimate setting , perfect for seniors who want to enjoy a leisurely pace and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Alaskan Cruises for Nature Lovers

Alaskan cruises are a popular choice for nature lovers seeking breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters. With its rugged coastline, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Alaska offers a unique and unforgettable cruising experience. One of the main attractions of Alaskan cruises is the opportunity to see majestic whales, playful seals, and graceful dolphins in their natural habitat. The pristine beauty of the Alaskan wilderness is truly awe-inspiring, with snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. Whether you’re exploring the Inside Passage or venturing into the remote wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park, an Alaskan cruise promises a journey filled with natural wonders and unforgettable moments.

Activities and Entertainment on Senior Cruises

Wellness Programs and Spa Services

Wellness programs and spa services are an essential part of the cruise experience for seniors. These services are designed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a soothing massage, take a yoga class, or enjoy a facial treatment, the cruise ship’s spa is the perfect place to unwind and pamper yourself. Cruise packages for young singles are also available, offering a unique opportunity for younger travelers to enjoy the benefits of wellness programs and spa services while on board. With a variety of treatments and activities to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Enrichment Lectures and Workshops

Enrichment lectures and workshops are a key component of senior cruises, providing educational and entertaining opportunities for passengers. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from history and art to science and technology. Expert speakers and instructors are brought on board to share their knowledge and engage with the audience. Whether you’re interested in learning about the local culture of your destination or expanding your horizons with a new skill, there’s something for everyone. Participating in these lectures and workshops is a great way to make the most of your cruise experience and connect with like-minded individuals.

Live Music and Dancing

Live music and dancing are popular activities on senior cruises. Passengers can enjoy a variety of musical genres, including jazz, swing, and ballroom. The ship’s talented musicians provide live performances throughout the cruise, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Whether you prefer to sit back and listen or hit the dance floor, there is something for everyone. According to Reddit , many seniors rave about the high-quality music and dancing experiences on senior cruises.

Dining Options for Seniors on Cruises

Special Dietary Needs and Restrictions

When it comes to catering to special dietary needs and restrictions, cruise lines understand the importance of providing options for all passengers. Whether you have food allergies, follow a specific diet, or require kosher or halal meals, there are various choices available. Most cruise lines offer a range of menu options that cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sodium meals . Additionally, if you have any specific dietary requirements, it is recommended to inform the cruise line in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs. Los Angeles to Alaska is a popular cruise route that offers a variety of dining options for seniors with special dietary needs.

Fine Dining Experiences

When it comes to dining on senior cruises, fine dining experiences are a highlight. Many cruise lines offer exquisite menus prepared by renowned chefs, ensuring a memorable culinary journey. From gourmet dishes to elegant dining rooms, seniors can indulge in a luxurious dining experience. However , it’s important to note that top cruise companies prioritize the needs and preferences of their senior passengers when it comes to dining options. They offer a variety of choices to accommodate different dietary needs and restrictions. Whether you have specific food allergies, follow a special diet, or require vegetarian or gluten-free options, these cruise lines have got you covered.

In addition to the exceptional food, these cruise lines also provide impeccable service. The attentive staff will ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary. From personalized recommendations to prompt service, you can expect a high level of attention to detail. So , sit back, relax, and savor the delectable cuisine while enjoying the stunning views from the ship’s dining venues.

To enhance your dining experience even further, some cruise lines offer specialty restaurants. These intimate venues provide a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a romantic dinner. Moreover , the variety of dining options extends beyond formal dining rooms. Cruise ships also feature casual and buffet dining venues, allowing seniors to enjoy a more relaxed and laid-back dining experience. Whether you prefer a formal dinner or a casual meal, there is something for everyone on senior cruises.

Casual and Buffet Dining

Casual and buffet dining options on senior cruises provide a relaxed and flexible dining experience. Passengers can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes and flavors from around the world. Whether you prefer a casual meal by the pool or a buffet-style feast, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering desserts, the dining venues onboard offer something for everyone. August cruises are a great time to indulge in the culinary delights offered on senior cruises, as the warm weather and vibrant atmosphere add to the overall dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there age restrictions for seniors on cruises.

Most cruise lines do not have specific age restrictions for seniors. However, some cruise lines may offer special discounts or benefits for passengers above a certain age, such as 55 or 60.

Are there wheelchair-accessible cabins available on cruises?

Yes, many cruise lines offer wheelchair-accessible cabins for passengers with mobility impairments. It is recommended to inform the cruise line in advance to ensure availability.

Can I bring my own medications on a cruise?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own medications on a cruise. It is advisable to carry medications in their original packaging and bring a sufficient supply for the duration of the cruise.

Are there medical facilities on board cruise ships?

Most cruise ships have medical facilities and staff to provide basic medical care. However, it is important to note that these facilities may have limited services and passengers with serious medical conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before embarking on a cruise.

Are there activities specifically designed for seniors on cruises?

Many cruise lines offer activities and programs specifically designed for seniors, such as fitness classes, art workshops, and dance lessons. These activities provide opportunities for seniors to socialize and engage in enjoyable experiences.

Can I request special dietary accommodations on a cruise?

Yes, most cruise lines offer special dietary accommodations for passengers with specific dietary needs or restrictions, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or kosher options. It is recommended to inform the cruise line in advance to ensure proper arrangements.

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Cristina is an accomplished travel writer and an expert in all things cruising, contributing her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm to Sea Savant. With over 15 years of experience in travel journalism, Cristina has a profound understanding of the cruise industry, from the intimate details of ship life to the broad spectrum of global destinations.

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Best Cruises for Seniors

The best cruises for seniors are the ones that allow you to see every whimsical wonder of the world in the utmost comfort. All Princess ships – along with most destinations and excursions – are wheelchair accessible, allowing you to take part in the unforgettable experiences that each itinerary offers. As you embark on your best years yet, start crossing iconic items off your bucket list with relaxing cruises from Princess.

Alaska Cruises for Seniors

Thanks to the personalized service and ability to connect with other passengers during activities, every cruise with Princess can feel like your own senior cruise – especially in Alaska where you can experience all the excitement of exploration without the hassle of having to coordinate a jam-packed itinerary. From the comfort of your stateroom balcony or the upper deck, witness acrobatic humpback whales break the water’s surface and listen to the thunder of calving glaciers around you. If you wish to venture out into the Great Land, ride through cascading waterfalls and around snow-capped mountains on a relaxing railway tour . These fully restored locomotive trains can bring you back in time as you journey past the original Klondike Trail of 1898. With convenient departures from Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C., the best Alaska cruises for seniors are just a short flight – or drive – away.

World Cruises for Seniors

Nothing feels as rewarding as a well-deserved retirement. With more time to do the things you’ve always dreamed of, kiss your ordinary life goodbye and settle into the luxuries of a World Cruise . Departing both domestically and internationally, our global routes take you to emerald-colored volcanoes in Iceland and elephant orphanages in Sri Lanka – all over the span of several months. Every day invites you to cross new experiences off your travel wish list. Raise your wine-filled glass to the crimson sky and toast to adventure while surrounded by panoramic sunset views of Cape Town. Or, sit counter-side in a cozy Sicilian cottage-style home and learn secrets to famous Italian recipes while tasting the savory flavors of homemade tomato sauce and fresh-baked bread. Besides our roundtrip itinerary from Fort Lauderdale, our World Cruises were crafted as one-way journeys to help you maximize your time touring the decorated streets of Morocco by motorcoach or testing your luck at the glamorous Monte Carlo Casino.

Local Cruises for Seniors

Some of the greatest wonders of the world are right in your backyard. Embark on a seven-day roundtrip journey down the California Coast and visit scenic ports of call – like Monterey and Ensenada – without a long car ride. Sip your way through the Guadalupe Valley while savoring creamy, rich cheeses that perfectly accompany the fruitful flavors of your wine. Or, observe majestic penguins marching across the pebbled terrains and polar bears in their cotton-colored coats at the world-famous San Diego Zoo. After a day of leisurely exploration, unwind on board in a private cabana in The Sanctuary – a haven just for adults – where sounds of children are muted and you can peacefully reflect on your days’ activities.

Cruises for Single Seniors

Ignite your sense of wonder and romance on any of our world-class itineraries. From the sparkling evening lights of the Eiffel Tower to the charming gondolas of the Venice Canals, there are countless fairy-tale moments to find a suitor. Opportunities to meet like-minded individuals exist both on and off the ship. With daily cocktail parties and singles-only nights , dress to the nines and enjoy an evening full of hand-crafted drinks and inspiring dialogues. Whether floating through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea or sampling dazzling dishes in a culinary demonstration, you’ll feel like you’re on a senior citizen cruise as you meet an abundance of fellow retirees.

With Princess, it’s never too late to embark on an unforgettable journey . Whether you prefer domestic adventures or international expeditions, turn any of our cruise itineraries into the senior citizen cruise you've always dreamed of.

The 6 Hottest Cruise Lines for People Over 60

Posted: April 15, 2024 | Last updated: April 15, 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey

For seniors looking to embark on a cruise adventure, choosing the right cruise line is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. From onboard amenities to itinerary options, there are several factors to consider before making a decision. We scoured travel websites like Conde Nest Traveler and Travel+ Leisure to compile this list of the best cruise lines for seniors, featuring options that cater specifically to the needs and preferences of older travelers. 

Whether you're seeking a relaxing ocean voyage or a culturally enriching river cruise, these top-rated cruise lines offer exceptional service, top-notch amenities, and unforgettable experiences for seniors looking to explore the world by sea.

1. Holland America Line

Price range : $100-$3,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for : Budget-conscious travelers who still want to experience the amenities and services of a top-notch cruise.

Why it's good for seniors: Offers a traditional cruise experience with attentive service, classic decor, and excellent food options. They have a wide range of enrichment programs and activities, including culinary arts classes and lectures on various topics, which are ideal for seniors who love learning.

Cruising the seas for over 150 years, Holland America Line  started back in 1873 when the company launched its very first steamship, the Rotterdam. Since then, the cruise line has become renowned for its elegant ships, exceptional service, and classic ambiance that harkens back to the golden age of cruising.

One of the things that makes Holland America Line stand out is for offering exceptional value to its passengers. Compared to other luxury cruise lines, Holland America Line is often considered more affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to experience the amenities and services of a top-notch cruise. 

 The cruise line offers a wide range of classes, workshops, and lectures on various topics, including cooking, art, music, and history. These programs are ideal for seniors who enjoy learning and want to expand their horizons while cruising.

Over the years, Holland America Line has won numerous accolades for its exceptional service and onboard experience. It has been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Cruise Critic for its outstanding ships, dining, and itineraries. The cruise line has also been awarded for its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing waste and emissions and preserving the natural environment.

2. Celebrity Cruises

Price range : $800-$5,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for : Travelers looking for a luxurious and sustainable cruise experience.

Why it's good for seniors : Offers a luxurious and sophisticated cruise experience with excellent service and amenities. They have a wide range of onboard activities, including art auctions, live music performances, and wine tastings, which are ideal for seniors who appreciate the finer things in life.

Celebrity Cruises burst onto the scene in 1989 with a clear mission: to provide a more upscale and sophisticated cruising experience. And boy, did they deliver. The cruise line quickly established a reputation for its elegant ships, exceptional service, and refined ambiance.

From stylish staterooms with plush bedding and 24-hour room service to Michelin-starred dining options and personalized concierge service, Celebrity Cruises is dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of comfort and indulgence.

Celebrity Cruises has a diverse range of itineraries that cover all corners of the globe, but some of their most popular routes include the Caribbean, Alaska, and the Mediterranean. Their Mediterranean cruises are particularly noteworthy, as they offer a chance to explore some of Europe's most iconic destinations in style, including Barcelona, Rome, and Santorini.

The company has received numerous accolades and awards, including recognition as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute for several consecutive years and it has  also been a consistent winner of Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards.

3. Viking Ocean Cruises

Price range : $2,000- $10,000  per person for a 7-night cruise.

Top choice for: Travelers who value cultural enrichment, immersive experiences, and sleek Scandinavian design.

Why it's good for seniors : Offers a relaxed and elegant cruise experience with a focus on cultural immersion and enrichment. They have a wide range of shore excursions that allow seniors to explore destinations in-depth, along with onboard lectures and performances that provide insight into local history and culture.

When Viking Ocean Cruises launched in 2015, it was clear that the cruise line was a game-changer in the industry. With its focus on cultural enrichment, destination-focused itineraries, and sleek Scandinavian design, Viking Ocean Cruises quickly became a favorite among discerning travelers.

The cruise line offers an extensive range of onboard lectures, performances, and activities that are designed to provide passengers with a deeper understanding of the destinations they're visiting. From cooking classes and wine tastings to art workshops and historical lectures, there's something for everyone on a Viking Ocean Cruises voyage.

Another highlight of Viking Ocean Cruises is its destination-focused itineraries. The cruise line emphasizes immersive experiences in ports of call, allowing passengers to get a true sense of the local culture and history. From exploring ancient ruins in Athens to tasting wine in Bordeaux, Viking Ocean Cruises offers a range of experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Since its launch, Viking Ocean Cruises has received numerous accolades and awards, including being named the #1 Ocean Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure for four years in a row. From the serene Nordic-inspired spa to the infinity pool with a retractable roof, Viking Ocean Cruises offers a range of features designed to make passengers feel pampered and relaxed.

4. Princess Cruises

Price range: $500-$3,000 per person for a 7-night cruise.

Top choice for: Travelers who value diverse itineraries, exceptional service, and family-friendly amenities

Why it's good for seniors : Princess Cruises offers a diverse range of onboard activities and entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, casinos, and movies under the stars. They also have a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants and traditional dining rooms, which are perfect for seniors who love to socialize and try new things.

Princess Cruises  has been a mainstay in the cruising world since it launched in 1965. The cruise line has since grown into one of the largest and most popular in the industry, known for its diverse itineraries, exceptional service, and family-friendly amenities.

One of the standout features of Princess Cruises is its diverse range of itineraries. The cruise line offers voyages to all corners of the globe, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to Alaska and beyond. Whether you're looking to explore ancient ruins, soak up the sun on a tropical beach, or spot whales in the wild, there's a Princess Cruises itinerary that's perfect for you.

Another highlight of Princess Cruises is its family-friendly amenities. The cruise line offers a range of activities and features that are designed to appeal to travelers of all ages, from kids' clubs and teen lounges to family-friendly dining options and onboard entertainment.

The cruise line has been named Best Cruise Line for Multi-Generational Families by Travel Weekly and Best Cruise Line for Food Lovers by Food & Wine Magazine, among many other honors.

5. Oceania Cruises

Price range : $1,500-$5,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for: Travelers who value gourmet cuisine, immersive itineraries, and luxurious accommodations

Why it's good for seniors : Oceania Cruises offers a sophisticated and intimate cruise experience with a focus on culinary excellence and cultural immersion. They have a wide range of shore excursions and onboard activities, including cooking classes and wine tastings, which are ideal for seniors who love food and wine.

 With its focus on gourmet cuisine, immersive itineraries, and luxurious accommodations, Oceania Cruises has been a leading name in the luxury cruising industry since its launch in 2002.

The cruise line is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, with menus created by renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin . From the elegant main dining room to the specialty restaurants and cooking classes, Oceania Cruises offers a culinary experience that's unparalleled in the cruising world.The cruise line offers voyages to destinations all over the world, from the exotic ports of Southeast Asia to the rugged landscapes of Alaska. With a focus on smaller, less crowded ports of call, Oceania Cruises offers passengers the opportunity to explore destinations in-depth and experience the local culture and history.

Another highlight of Oceania Cruises is its luxurious accommodations. The cruise line offers some of the most spacious and elegant staterooms at sea, with each room featuring a private balcony and a range of upscale amenities. From the opulent Owner's Suites to the comfortable Veranda Staterooms, every aspect of the accommodations on Oceania Cruises is designed with comfort and style in mind.

 Oceania Cruises has been named the Best Cruise Line for Foodies by USA Today and has received high praise from publications such as Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler.

6. Cunard Line

Price range: $1,500-$10,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for : Travelers who value elegance, luxury, and sophistication

Why it's good for seniors : Cunard Line offers a classic and refined cruise experience with a focus on luxury and tradition. They have a wide range of enrichment programs and activities, including ballroom dancing lessons and guest lectures, which are ideal for seniors who enjoy elegant and intellectual pursuits.

Cunard Line is one of the most iconic names in the cruising world. Since its launch in 1839, the cruise line has been synonymous with elegance, luxury, and sophistication, offering passengers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

One of the standout features of Cunard Line is its commitment to the traditions of ocean travel. The cruise line's iconic ocean liners, including the Queen Mary 2, are designed to evoke the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era, with elegant decor, fine dining, and exceptional service.

Cunard Line is also known for its immersive itineraries. The cruise line offers voyages to destinations all over the world, from the glittering capitals of Europe to the exotic ports of Asia and Africa. Whether you're looking to explore historic landmarks, soak up the sun on a tropical beach, or experience the local culture and cuisine, there's a Cunard Line itinerary that's perfect for you.

Another highlight of Cunard Line is its commitment to exceptional service. From the attentive staff to the luxurious accommodations and amenities, Cunard Line is dedicated to providing passengers with an experience that's truly unforgettable. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Cunard Line goes above and beyond to ensure that every detail of your voyage is taken care of.

The cruise line has been named Best Luxury Cruise Line by Travel Weekly and Best Cruise Line for Romance by US News & World Report, among many other honors.

Editorial note :  Prices may vary based on the time of year, itinerary, and cabin type selected.

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11 Best Cruises for Seniors

If you are considering a cruise with older travelers, then check out the list of best cruise lines for seniors.

Book Your Cruise

Cruising is one of the best experiences you can have at any age. But not every cruise is best for every age group.

Here is a list of the top 11 best cruises for seniors . So, if you are a senior or someone looking to book a trip with an older person, then you can consider this list when choosing a Senior cruise for your upcoming voyage.

Top 11 Best Cruise Lines for Seniors

Here is the assorted list of the best cruise lines for seniors that are perfect for senior cruisers –

• Holland America Line
• Cunard Line
• AmaWaterways
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

1. Holland America Line

Holland America Line has built a reputation for providing one of the best services for senior passengers. This cruise line has long been popular among senior travelers due to the classic and classy cruise experience. The ships are medium-sized and prioritize essential amenities such as exquisite dining, entertainment, and itineraries.

2. Cunard Line

Cunard Line takes you back to the golden age of sailing. It provides an authentic experience of British tea, enriching lectures, and a planetarium. This line also has various stateroom offerings for guests with different budgets. They provide top-notch entertainment with flawless service, making it one of the best cruise lines for seniors.

Their “Viking Inclusive Value” pricing includes one complimentary shore excursion in each port. Its service and thoughtfully appointed ships make it an ideal cruise for older passengers.

4. AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways is among the top river cruise lines across the globe. It has a total of 24 ships and provides extraordinary itineraries.

AmaWaterways is highly inclusive, and guests are provided with all necessary amenities. They have a unique ‘Twin Balcony’ concept, which offers a full-size exterior balcony and a French balcony. Lastly, this foody-focused cruise line offers fantastic shore excursions without extra charges, ideal for senior cruisers to explore a destination.

Related: What Cruises Are Good for Senior Citizens ?

5. Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL made it to the top due to its affordable fares, freestyle cuisine option and frequent deals for senior cruisers . Apart from this, their attentive services and indoor facilities also make them one of the favorites for senior citizens. For older people, Norwegian offers various services, such as fitness centers with yoga sessions, spa facilities, casinos, and an onboard art gallery to showcase magnificent paintings of world-class artists.

6. MSC Cruises

MSC Cruise Line is a European-owned cruise line that upholds its 300-year-old legacy. All MSC cruise ships have a modern infrastructure with outstanding hospitality entertainment options that avoid language barriers and, most importantly, nightlives in the industry. Seniors from all around the world sail on MSC. Its biggest sailing market is in South Africa and South America. However, if you’re traveling as a senior citizen, you can try some amazing services such as extravagant parties, 24*7 butler parties, interactive sessions, onboard health facilities, and gluten-free food.

7. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruise Line has received the best premium cruise line for 11 years in a row, and the reason behind it is the luxurious accommodations, innovative spaces, world-class dining, and stylish design. This cruise line is perfect for all ages – including seniors. The line offers various services for them, such as 24*7 room services, cooking classes, therapeutic services, and intriguing entertainment programs. Even the accommodations have various options with easy accessibility options for those who have mobility issues.

8. Seabourn Cruise Line

If you are a senior citizen who wants luxury with a more formal experience, then Seabourn Cruises is for you. It lets you enjoy sophisticated luxury and gives you a private club atmosphere that never pressures you to wear formal clothes like a suit and tie. This cruise line really works very hard to make every guest feel welcome and make sure that they make the most of their trip. However, it boasts handcrafted itineraries for its guests, which take them to some exotic locations across the globe from various departure ports from Australia and New Zealand, India, Asia, Antarctica, Alaska, and the Caribbean to Northern Europe, the Arctic, and many more.

Related: Why are Cruises Good for the Elderly ?

Azamara is a Miami-based cruise line and one of the best senior-friendly brands. There are four ships in its fleets and it has a long list of perks covered in the base fare. This cruise has a fancy, upscale level of ambiance, services, and amenities that make you awe-inspiring. Not only that, it also allows kids onboard and clearly says that it “discourages” passengers under age 18. The line gives some destination goals and focuses on itineraries like Europe. The major highlight of the itinerary is staying overnight in key destinations and allowing passengers to explore those destinations more uniquely.

10. Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruise Line is one of the most famous senior citizen cruise lines , which offers healthy food options, a spa, and a fitness center specially designed for seniors. Their ships provide an appealing ambiance like a country club, which looks upscale without being fancy. This cruise line is also famous for destination-focused itineraries to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and other places, including world cruises, which last up to 180 days. It provides a good overall value for its cruise experience. Also, don’t forget that it includes specialty restaurants, shore excursions, round-trip airfare, transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

11. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas cruise line is an ultra-luxury cruise line with the most inclusive cruise line at sea. It offers everything beyond your imagination with its indulgent and luxurious sailings. Regent differs with its shore excursion-inclusive. This cruise line differs because of its shore excursion-inclusive, football field, accommodations, services, one-stop-shopping fares, and grand European hotel ambiance on its sister ships. However, it also offers in-room services for dining and breakfast. Go ahead and book your Regent cruise , which can take you to more than 450 ports of call around the world. It offers the world cruise itineraries to explore the globe.

Related: Which Cruise Line Is Best for 50-Year-Old Couples ?

So, if you are looking for the best cruise ships for seniors . then consider the comprehensive list provided above. All of the cruise lines offered above add their taste to an itinerary and give a unique experience for senior travelers. Whichever you choose to explore your cruise destination , you won’t be disappointed.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cruises Line for Seniors

1. Is There a Cruise for Senior Citizens?

2. Which Cruise Line Is Best for Entertainment and Activities for Seniors?

3. Which Is the Best Gastronomy Cruise Line for Seniors?

4. What if I Am Looking for the Best Destination Immersion Cruise Lines?

5. Are Cunard and Viking Ocean Cruise Lines Best for Personal Enrichment and Education?

6. Which Are the Best Cruise Destinations for Seniors?

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10 Cruise Lines For Seniors Who Love To Travel By Sea

Cruising is an unforgettable escape for the elderly who love to see the world. Discover these spectacular cruise lines that are perfect for seniors!

• Holland America Line offers flexible dining options and specialty meals for seniors, providing a top-notch onboard experience.
• Princess Cruises provides a personalized MedallionClass experience, making the vacation more effortless for seniors.
• Celebrity Cruises offers budget-friendly cruises with excellent stateroom accessibility and a range of amenities for seniors with mobility, sight, or hearing needs.

The golden years don't just mean staying home, watching shows on TV, going to the grocery, or being a green thumb. More often than not, seniors who love to travel by sea are thinking about cruising with the love of their lives—seeing the world from a different perspective—the sea. The world has many spectacular destinations for senior travelers to let them experience fascinating cultures, heritage, and history that they may have known or learned about during their younger years. It would be a dream come true to experience it, and cruising is a great way to see otherworldly scenery, amazing landscapes, and the beauty of the sea.

Make new friends. Create unforgettable memories and experience comfort and luxury on any of these spectacular cruise lines for seniors!

The Ultimate World Cruise: The Pros Vs. Cons Now That This Nine-Month Cruise Is Well Underway

10 holland america line, offers dining time flexibility and special requests for meals, especially vegetarian dishes.

Some of the world's major attractions aren't that easy to access without a watercraft, and the Holland America Line is a perfect way to do it. This award-winning cruise line is straightforward when it comes to top-notch onboard experience and specialty dining. Holland America Line is one of the best cruise lines for every type of traveler , particularly seniors, especially the cruise line's As You Wish dining option that allows passengers to choose their dining time. Its Pinnacle Class ships can accommodate up to 2,600 passengers, while its Rotterdam Class ships can hold up to 1,400 passengers, giving seniors a more intimate experience.

• Recommended Cruise: Holland America Line - Eurodam (7-Night Cruise to Alaska)
• Popular Destinations: North & South America, Europe, Asia, South Pacific, Alaska
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Dining Time Flexibility, Fine Dining, Special Meals Request, Medical Doctors & Nurses Onboard
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 11

Some of the itineraries are one-way, which may require passengers to book a flight back home.

9 Princess Cruises

Offers personalized princess medallionclass experience for a more effortless vacation.

From its award-winning excursions to its state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass experience, Princess Cruises doesn't disappoint, especially for seniors who want to have a more efficient stay during their cruise. For instance, the MedallionClass experience features a small, wearable device that enables passengers to unlock their staterooms as they approach without the need for a key card or find their loved ones anywhere on the ship. It's also a plus that passengers can purchase these devices and have them personalized according to their liking. Also, world-class entertainment awaits all seniors aboard Princess Cruises, including Rock Opera and the Encore ballroom orchestra.

• Recommended Cruise: Princess Cruises - Caribbean Princess (7-Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean)
• Popular Destinations: Asia, Europe, South America & Antarctica, Caribbean, Mexico
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Staterooms Auto-Unlock, Broadway-style Entertainment, Multi-course Dining, 24/7 Medical Care
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 15

For American passengers who may need medical services during the cruise, they may need to verify their insurance policy if the coverage also applies outside the U.S. as Princess Cruises ships are registered in Bermuda.

8 Celebrity Cruises

Features excellent stateroom accessibility for seniors with mobility, sight, or hearing problems.

With the excellent cruise packages that Celebrity Cruises offers without compromising luxury, seniors can explore the spectacular landscapes that the world offers without breaking the bank. It's one of the cheapest cruise lines in the world , perfect for seniors on a budget. For as low as $269 starting price per person, travelers will experience luxury and comfort for three nights onboard the Celebrity Reflection across Florida and the Bahamas (Nassau and CocoCay). Celebrity Cruises ships also feature staterooms that cater to passengers who have mobility, sight, or hearing needs.

• Recommended Cruise: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Equinox (12-Night Cruise to Transatlantic)
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Europe, Mediterranean, Alaska, Transatlantic
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Budget-friendly Cruises, Michelin-starred Dining, 24/7 Medical Care, Stateroom Accessibility
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 16

7 Norwegian Cruise Line

Regularly offers senior discounts and deals for all its cruises around the world.

The best thing about Norwegian Cruise Line is its frequent deals for seniors 55 years and older, giving them a chance to tick off one of their bucket lists by cruising across the seas. Its Freestyle Cruising Experience also allows seniors to enjoy the cruise without the need to follow the schedule, such as dining time and place.

Passengers can do more of their chosen shore excursions and choose to have their meals at their preferred time and restaurant onboard. Many of its staterooms are also wheelchair accessible, and its ships also offer scooter rentals for seniors to get around easily. Norwegian Cruise Line also doesn't disappoint when it comes to entertainment, offering world-class performances, including the Donna Summer Musical aboard Norwegian Prima .

• Recommended Cruise: Norwegian Cruise Line - Norwegian Pearl (9-Night Cruise to Europe)
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe-Mediterranean, Alaska, Bermuda
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Freestyle Cruising, Wheelchair Accessibility, Scooter Rentals, Doctors & Nurses Onboard
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 20

The swimming pools, whirlpools, or Jacuzzis are available for use, but diapers (child and adult) are not allowed in the pools under the regulations of the United States Public Health.

6 Seabourn Cruise Line

A luxury small-ship cruise line perfect for seniors seeking a more intimate cruise.

For seniors who fancy a more intimate cruise, Seabourn Cruise Line is the answer. Headquartered in Seattle, this ultra-luxury small-ship cruise line features five ships and two sister vessels that sail through seven continents with carefully curated cruises. Its all-inclusive offerings include an exclusive yacht-like atmosphere and complimentary Signature Events that seniors will love.

Of course, the spa and wellness program is not to be missed through the expert help of an onboard certified yoga and meditation practitioner. Seabourn Cruise Line also has readily available screen reader programs and a familiarization tour upon arrival for passengers with low vision or even those who are blind. It's one of the top-rated luxury cruise lines that are favored by passengers !

• Recommended Cruise: Seabourn Sojourn (7 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea)
• Popular Destinations: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Baltic Sea
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Wheelchair Accessibility, Medical Center, Yacht-like Atmosphere
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 7

Wheelchair-accessible suites must be booked at least 45 days before the planned dates for any of the Seabourn Cruise Line ships.

5 Royal Caribbean International

Features stateroom accessibility and offers fun-filled activities perfect for active seniors.

Active seniors will experience unmatched fun and jam-packed activities with Royal Caribbean International , featuring 32 cruise ships sailing worldwide. It's the biggest cruise line by revenue and the second-largest by passenger count. The cruise line also sets the bar high when it comes to accessibility, especially for seniors and persons with disability.

The Broadway-style show will surely entertain the seniors, while those who love sightseeing can use the glass-walled observation capsule called North Star, which rises to 300 feet above sea level aboard the Quantum of the Seas. It's a Guinness World Record holder as the highest viewing deck on a cruise ship. Royal Caribbean is one of the top-rated cruise lines that Americans book .

• Recommended Cruise: Royal Caribbean International - Rhapsody of the Seas (8-night Cruise to the South Caribbean)
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, The Bahamas, Alaska
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Accessibility Services & Programs, Medical Center, Broadway-style Entertainment
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 32

Passengers who are on dialysis or those who are bringing oxygen are allowed onboard, provided that these are arranged at least 30 days ahead of the sail dates.

10 Cruises That Are Perfect For The Tropical Winter Getaway You're Seeking

4 msc cruises, features high-tech interconnectivity app and device for digitally savvy seniors.

The third-largest cruise line in the world, MSC Cruises is unstoppable with its unique, luxury experience onboard. For digitally savvy seniors, this European cruise line features a state-of-the-art interconnectivity app, the MSC for Me, which enables passengers to browse, book, and plan activities tailored to their needs while onboard.

There's also a wearable MSC for Me Wristband that allows passengers to unlock their cabins, book services, and make purchases. And if these are not enough, the MSC for Me Chat feature allows passengers to stay in touch with their loved ones wherever they are onboard. Of course, world-class dining, dazzling casinos, and magical Broadway-style shows are a plus. Who would have thought that MSC Cruises is one of the cheapest cruises to book ?

• Recommended Cruise: MSC Grandiosa (7-Night Cruise to South America)
• Popular Destinations: Mediterranean, Caribbean, The Bahamas & Florida, Northern Europe, South America
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: State-of-the-art Interconnectivity App & Wearable Device, Broadway-style Shows, Medical Center
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 23

3 Oceania Cruises

A small luxury cruise line offering budget-friendly cruises, perfect for seniors on a budget.

Miami-based Oceania Cruises is known for its small, luxury ships, perfect for seniors looking for a more exclusive and intimate cruise. But there's more. It's also one of the cheapest cruise lines in the world that doesn't compromise comfort and opulence. For instance, cruises to the Bahamas and the Mediterranean are budget-friendly yet feature luxurious amenities and experiences for passengers.

From personalized services to world-class dining, Oceania Cruises is a crowning jewel of the seas. Seniors can read a book at the library, enjoy wine tasting, enroll in a culinary class, or join an art workshop while onboard. Oceania Cruises ships also feature wheelchair-accessible staterooms to accommodate passengers with medical and special needs.

• Recommended Cruise: Oceania Insignia (10-Night Cruise to Australia & New Zealand)
• Popular Destinations: Europe, North America, South Pacific & Tahiti, Caribbean, Australia & New Zealand
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Medical Center, Stateroom Accessibility, Intimate Cruise Experience
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 8

Oceania Cruises allows wheelchairs or scooters onboard, provided that they are collapsible and have a width that doesn't exceed 22 inches.

2 Viking Cruises

Scandinavian-style cruise line with excellent stateroom accessibility for seniors.

Offering expeditions and ocean and river cruises, Scandinavian-style Viking Cruises is one of the best luxury cruise liners in the U.S. that offers luxurious accommodations and valuable excursions at an incredible price. The cruise line is known for having the world's best small cruise ships that offer both comfort and luxury, regardless of the voyages that passengers may fancy. It also doesn't disappoint when it comes to stateroom accessibility for seniors in a wheelchair or other passengers with mobility issues. Seniors will also love the cruise line's Nordic-inspired spa services and special dietary needs that the elderly may need, provided that these are arranged at least 30 days before sailing.

• Recommended Cruise: Viking Jupiter (14-Night Cruise to the Mediterranean)
• Popular Destinations: Mediterranean, Caribbean & Central America, Australia & New Zealand, South America
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: Medical Center, Wheelchair Accessible, Destination-Focused Dining, Onshore Experiences
• Number of Ships in Fleet: Over 90 vessels for expedition, ocean, and river cruises

10 Beautiful Cruises From New York City You Should Try

1 silversea cruises, an all-inclusive cruise line with 24-hour butler service, perfect for seniors seeking ease and a comfortable voyage.

Small but mighty. Silversea Cruises is known for its ultra-luxury accommodations but is also smaller compared to many of its competitors. But this is what beckons seniors to book a cruise with its 12 ships that offer voyages around the world. And the highlight? All of its vessels are all-inclusive, with a 24-hour butler's service, making it easier and more comfortable for the elderly.

Its SALT Program (Sea And Land Taste) for passengers aboard the Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and Silver Nova vessels allows passengers to go on shore excursions, where they can try and taste the local food cultures and cooking techniques. These select excursions are popular among seniors and foodies, plus it's even more exciting that they will be accompanied by the cruise line's food expert. Silversea Cruises has also racked up great reviews as one of the best cruise lines in the world .

• Recommended Cruise: Silversea - Silver Dawn (2-Night Cruise to Asia)
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean & Central America, Asia, Arctic & Greenland, Mediterranean, South America
• Amenities & Services for Seniors: 24-hour Butler Service, All-inclusive Accommodation, Intimate Cruises, Comprehensive Medical Center
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 12

10+ Best Cruises for Seniors to Take in 2023

Ever wonder why your grandparents or perhaps even your cool aunt can’t stop raving about their latest cruise vacation? Well, it seems the open seas have been casting a hypnotic spell on our silver-haired tribe. And for good reason!

You see, cruises are like that perfect pot of stew – a mix of everything. And for those solo senior travelers? It’s a socializing haven. Plus, rumor has it many cruise lines sprinkle in some senior-special amenities and discounts.

Why Do Retired People Go on Cruises?

Retired life offers the liberty of time, and what better way to use this time than by sailing the open seas? Indeed, retirement is the golden era of newfound freedom, adventures, and relishing moments. It’s no surprise then that cruising has become synonymous with senior dreams.

Many retirees are drawn to the idea of waking up in a new destination every other day, all while staying in the same cozy cabin they’ve come to call their second home. This nomadic charm, combined with the sheer luxury of having everything at arm’s length, is irresistible.

Solo senior travelers are often in search of camaraderie. Cruises become a vessel (pun intended) for meaningful connections, where friendships are forged over shared experiences and moonlit deck dances. Furthermore, post-retirement, there’s a newfound zeal to learn and experience , which cruises satiate with their rich itineraries that blend relaxation with discovery.

The Advantages of Cruising for Seniors

First and foremost, imagine the bliss of hassle-free multi-destination travel . The world unfolds before you, and yet, there’s no need to grapple with luggage every other day or endure tedious transfers.

Now, let’s sprinkle in some magic. Many cruise lines have caught on to the senior wave and are rolling out the red carpet. We’re talking amenities crafted just for our beloved senior cruisers. Think specialty restaurants, roll-in showers, and even daily afternoon teas.

And the cherry on top? Opportunities for socialization ! Remember school field trips where you made lifelong buddies? Cruises are the grown-up version of that. Activities, shore excursions, or simply lounging on the deck, every corner is an opportunity to strike a conversation, share a story, and create bonds. After all, there’s no age limit to making new pals, right? Cheers to cruising through the golden years in style! 🥂🚢💃🕺🏽

Are There Cruises for Seniors Only?

There isn’t a “seniors-only” label slapped on any ships. However, before you drop that anchor of disappointment, here’s a tidbit to float your boat: many cruises have mastered the art of catering to mature travelers without making it an age-exclusive affair.

For example, Viking ships have an adults-only policy, making them the closest thing to ideal senior cruises . You won’t find youngsters splashing in the pool or teens hogging the dance floor. Instead, you’ll be in the company of like-minded, mature individuals, basking in serene environments, thoughtful amenities, and enriching activities tailored for the discerning traveler.

River Cruise Ship Offerings for Seniors

Sailing on a river cruise ship is akin to embarking on an enchanting voyage through time. These vessels, gracefully adorning the world’s rivers, serve as time machines, gently meandering through the annals of history, art, and civilizations.

European Rivers

Europe, a continent rich in history, culture, and tales of love, war, and revolution, is best explored through its iconic rivers.

Rhine: The Rhine, a European gem, sweeps from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, offering diverse vistas from vineyards to cathedrals and medieval towns. Notably, the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley showcases castles and ruins, telling tales of yore.

Danube: The Danube, the “River of Kings,” flows through cities like Vienna and Budapest. Each stop boasts historic architecture, but its essence lies in the shift from vibrant city life to Austria and Hungary’s serene wine regions.

Seine: The Seine, iconic to Paris, is a journey through romance. Beyond Paris, it winds through Normandy, combining art, history, and gastronomy. Highlights include Impressionist landscapes and the poignant D-Day beaches.

Specialty Cruises for Seniors

For those seeking more than just sightseeing, specialty cruises offer themed experiences that cater to specific passions and interests.

Wine Tasting: Embark on a wine-tasting cruise through Europe’s premier vineyards from Bordeaux to Wachau. Connect with local vintners, engage in winemaking sessions, and relish select vintages amidst scenic vistas.

Christmas Markets : Experience a European winter’s charm on a Christmas market cruise. Revel in nostalgic settings with twinkling lights, artisan crafts, festive melodies, and the scent of roasted chestnuts, immersing in sheer holiday delight.

Outside Europe

The world’s rivers stretch far beyond Europe, beckoning with exotic allure and tales untold.

Nile in Egypt: The Nile, Egypt’s heartbeat, reveals historic wonders as you cruise. From Giza’s pyramids to Luxor’s temples, it’s a trip through time. The contrast between Cleopatra’s tales and Cairo’s modern streets enriches the voyage.

Mekong in Vietnam: The Mekong, threading through Asia, offers varied sights and experiences. From tranquil floating villages and temples to bustling Ho Chi Minh City, discover markets and savor local dishes, all while soaking in the region’s culture.

Top River Cruise Lines for Seniors

• Viking River Cruises: One of the best-known river cruise lines, Viking offers itineraries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Their Longships are specifically designed for river cruising, boasting innovative engineering and a Scandinavian-inspired design.
• Avalon Waterways: With a fleet of Suite Ships, Avalon Waterways emphasizes luxury and spacious staterooms. They operate in Europe, Asia, and South America.
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection: Offering a boutique experience on the water, Uniworld boasts ships with luxurious and unique designs. Their destinations include Europe, Russia, Asia, and Egypt.
• AmaWaterways: Recognized for its innovative ship design and diverse itineraries, AmaWaterways cruises the waters of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
• Scenic: An all-inclusive luxury cruise line, Scenic offers spacious suites, fine dining, and a nearly 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio. They sail in Europe, Asia, and Egypt.
• Tauck River Cruising: This premium cruise line emphasizes immersive shore excursions and all-inclusive pricing. Tauck’s itineraries are mainly based in Europe.
• Crystal River Cruises: An extension of the luxury ocean cruise line, Crystal River Cruises offers six-star service on Europe’s waterways.
• Emerald Waterways: As Scenic’s sister company, Emerald offers a premium, value-focused experience. Their Star-Ships sail through Europe and Southeast Asia.
• Riviera River Cruises: With a focus on the British market, Riviera offers a range of itineraries throughout Europe.
• CroisiEurope: As one of the longest-operating river cruise companies, CroisiEurope has an extensive fleet and offers a wide range of European itineraries, as well as some in Asia and Africa.

Each of these river cruise lines offers distinct experiences, catering to various tastes, budgets, and destination preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, value, or a specific type of onboard atmosphere, there’s likely a river cruise line that aligns with your desires.

Top Ocean Cruise Lines for Seniors

The world of ocean cruising offers a myriad of options tailored to suit the preferences and needs of older travelers. Cruise lines constantly evolve their offerings, ensuring seniors have a memorable cruise experience. It’s no wonder, then, that for many senior cruisers, selecting the right cruise line, size, and destination becomes a delightful task.

Megaships: Operated by renowned cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, these vessels are akin to floating cities, boasting diverse onboard activities and entertainment. Many feature accessible staterooms for seniors, ensuring comfort amidst a wide array of amenities.

Mid-Size Ships: Brands like Holland America Line highlight mid-size offerings, blending intimacy and amenities. These ships offer fine dining, varied onboard activities, and traditions such as daily afternoon tea without the hustle of larger vessels.

Small Ships: Lines like Silversea Cruises focus on intimate experiences with access to unique ports. Their all-inclusive pricing often covers gourmet meals, fine wines, and unique shore excursions, ensuring a premium, immersive experience.

By Destination

Caribbean: With its clear waters and sandy beaches, the Caribbean is a prime destination for senior cruisers. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to sun-soaked beaches, cruise lines present vibrant cruise deals for a refreshing escape.

Mediterranean: Seniors are drawn to the Mediterranean’s ancient sites, diverse cultures, and culinary delights. From Italy’s romance to Greece’s ruins and Turkey’s bazaars, cruise lines like Oceania Cruises offer immersive shore excursions into the region’s heritage.

Alaska: Alaskan cruises unveil nature’s majesty, from glaciers to diverse wildlife. Cruise lines, including Holland America, provide luxurious voyages into Alaska’s wilderness, merging nature’s splendor with comfort.

Selecting an ocean cruise as a senior is not merely about the destination or the size of the ship; it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with individual preferences and desires. So, for all senior citizens looking to create lasting memories, the horizon is vast and inviting.

Ocean and River Cruises Ideal for Seniors: Our Picks

Navigating the world of cruising can feel like sailing through a stormy sea of options. But fear not, fellow travelers! We’ve done the heavy anchor lifting for you. Let’s plunge into the waves and discover the best river cruises tailored for seniors, focusing on amenities and affordability.

Best Amenities and Services

Among the armada of cruise lines, one name stands out when it comes to offering the best amenities and services for seniors: Viking Cruises . Their river cruise ships are exclusively adult-only, ensuring a peaceful environment ideal for seniors.

With onboard medical care , accessible cabins , and a range of activities tailored to the older audience, Viking ensures that senior travelers feel at home on the high seas. Their attention to detail, combined with cultural immersion experiences and educational opportunities, make them the crown jewel for senior cruisers seeking a blend of luxury and enrichment.

Most Affordable for Seniors

While many cruise lines offer senior citizen rates and discounts, Carnival Cruise Line emerges as the beacon for those watching their pennies. Known for its festive atmosphere and value-packed cruise deals, Carnival doesn’t shy away from rolling out the red carpet for the golden age brigade.

Their Senior Citizen Rates for guests aged 55 or older offer a wonderful opportunity for seniors to experience the joys of cruising without breaking the bank. Plus, with a variety of shore activities tailored to various physical abilities, seniors can choose their own adventure, be it relaxed or invigorating.

Honorable mentions must be given to Holland America Line for their dedication to older passengers and Crystal Cruises for their exquisite pricing and luxurious onboard amusement options.

Whether you’re a senior looking for the pinnacle of luxury or seeking the best bang for your buck, the vast ocean of cruise options has something for every taste and budget. Remember to pack your spirit of adventure, and maybe some sea-sickness tablets, just in case! Happy cruising! 🛳️🌊

Preparing for Your Cruise: Essential Tips for Seniors

Ahoy, senior sailors! As we embark on this voyage to the vast ocean of preparation, let’s ensure smooth sailing by packing right, staying spry, and making accommodations for any special needs.

• What to Pack : Let’s start with the basics. Beyond your snazzy cruise attire, remember to pack medications (in their original bottles, mind you), a trusty pair of comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a lightweight jacket for those cooler evenings on deck. Oh, and a sun hat? It’s not just for fashion; it’s a lifesaver under the tropical sun.
• Health And Safety Precautions: Keep your health ship-shape! Consult your doctor before setting sail, especially if you have underlying conditions. Once aboard, frequent hand-washing is a must. Many cruise ships offer onboard medical care , but always carry a small first aid kit for minor hiccups. And, of course, travel insurance is your trusty lifeboat, so don’t forget it!
• Arranging for Special Needs: Got mobility issues or dietary requirements? Fear not! Most cruise lines , from Viking to Holland America , offer accessible staterooms and meal options for various diets. Simply inform the cruise line in advance, and they’ll be more than ready to cater to your needs.

Seniors set sail on your next adventure aboard a cruise. As we anchor this discussion, remember: age is just a number, but traveling? It’s the secret to extending your wisdom. After all, they say, “Age doesn’t limit your horizons, it only enhances the view!” Bon Voyage and happy cruising! 🚢🌍

Are cruises cheaper for seniors?

Yes, many cruise lines offer special rates and discounts for senior passengers. These discounts can vary based on the cruise line, destination, and time of year. It’s always wise for seniors to inquire about any age-related deals or promotions when booking, and some even provide special “senior citizen rates” for those above a certain age.

What age is senior for cruises?

The age considered “senior” varies among cruise lines, but it typically starts at 55 years old. By this age, passengers often qualify for senior discounts or promotions. However, specifics can differ, so it’s a good idea to check with individual cruise lines about their particular age requirements for senior deals.

Can you cruise if you are over 70?

Absolutely! There’s no age limit to enjoy a cruise. However, passengers over 70 may need to provide a doctor’s note certifying they’re fit to travel, especially amidst health concerns or global health crises. It’s always advisable for older travelers to check the cruise line’s policies and ensure they have suitable travel insurance.

Is Royal Caribbean senior friendly?

Should an 80 year old go on a cruise.

Absolutely, if they’re in good health and have a spirit of adventure! Cruises offer various activities and relaxation opportunities suitable for all age groups. However, it’s essential for someone in their 80s to consult with their doctor before traveling, ensure they have the right travel insurance, and choose a cruise line that caters to their specific needs and preferences.

Which cruises are all inclusive for seniors?

Many luxury cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages suitable for seniors. Brands like Silversea Cruises , Regent Seven Seas , and Viking Cruises are known for their all-inclusive offerings which cover meals, beverages, most shore excursions, and sometimes even airfare. Additionally, some cruise lines provide senior-specific packages that might include extras like onboard credits or specialty dining.

Digital Marketer

I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. When not cruising, I spend my time on growing my marketing agency.

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Which Cruise Line Is Best For Seniors

Published: December 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jacqui Uhl

• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome aboard! Cruising is not just for the young and adventurous – it’s also a fantastic vacation option for seniors. With a variety of cruise lines catering to the needs and preferences of older travelers, seniors can embark on memorable journeys to explore beautiful destinations while enjoying a range of amenities and activities.

When it comes to choosing the best cruise line for seniors, there are several factors to consider. Seniors often value comfort, accessibility, and a relaxing atmosphere, making it essential to find a cruise line that offers senior-friendly amenities and activities tailored to their needs. Additionally, health and safety considerations, as well as options for solo travelers and those with limited mobility, play a crucial role in selecting the perfect cruise line.

In this article, we will explore the top cruise lines that go the extra mile to cater to the needs and preferences of seniors. From luxurious ocean liners to intimate river cruises, there is a perfect sailing for every senior adventurer. So let’s dive in and discover which cruise line is best suited for seniors seeking a memorable vacation on the high seas!

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Cruise Line for Seniors

Choosing the right cruise line for seniors involves considering several factors that contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some key aspects to take into account:

• Accessibility: Seniors may have specific mobility needs, so it’s crucial to ensure that the cruise line offers accessible amenities and facilities, including wheelchair accessibility, elevators, and easy-to-navigate layouts.
• Medical Facilities and Services: Look for cruise lines that have well-equipped medical facilities and professional staff on board. This can provide peace of mind in case of medical emergencies or if you require regular health monitoring.
• Dining Options: Many seniors prefer flexible dining options, such as open-seating or anytime dining, which allows them to choose when and where they want to eat. Some cruise lines also offer specialty restaurants with a variety of cuisines to cater to different dietary preferences.
• Entertainment and Activities: Consider the variety of activities and entertainment options available on board. Look for cruise lines that offer enrichment programs, live shows, music performances, and educational activities suitable for seniors.
• Itinerary and Destination: Evaluate the cruise line’s itineraries and destinations. Some seniors prefer shorter cruises or cruises that visit ports with easy access to attractions and historical sites. Pay attention to the ports of call and the activities available at each destination.
• Cruise Size and Atmosphere: Determine whether you prefer a larger ship with more amenities or a smaller ship with a more intimate atmosphere. Larger ships often offer a wider range of onboard activities and entertainment, while smaller ships provide a quieter and more relaxed ambiance.
• Cost and Value: Consider your budget and what you are getting for your money. Look for cruise lines that offer senior discounts, inclusive amenities, and package deals that provide value for money.

By taking these factors into account, you can narrow down your options and find a cruise line that aligns with your preferences and needs as a senior traveler. Now, let’s explore the top cruise lines that offer senior-friendly amenities and activities to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Cruise Lines with Senior-Friendly Amenities

There are several cruise lines that excel in providing senior-friendly amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for older travelers. Let’s explore some of the top cruise lines that cater to the needs of seniors:

• Princess Cruises: Known for their exceptional service and attention to detail, Princess Cruises offers a range of amenities to make senior travelers feel right at home. Their ships are equipped with accessible staterooms, wheelchair-friendly facilities, and trained staff to assist with any requirements. They also provide a variety of enrichment programs, including educational lectures and art classes, to keep seniors engaged and entertained.
• Holland America Line: Holland America Line is renowned for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for seniors seeking a more relaxed and refined experience. Their ships feature accessible accommodations, wide corridors, and ramps, ensuring easy movement throughout the ship. Holland America also offers cooking demonstrations, live music performances, and cultural activities to cater to the interests of older guests.
• Crystal Cruises: Crystal Cruises is synonymous with luxury and impeccable service. Their ships are equipped with wheelchair-accessible cabins, spacious public areas, and attentive staff to assist seniors with any needs. Crystal Cruises also offers a range of senior-friendly activities, such as ballroom dancing classes, enrichment lectures, and wine tastings.
• Disney Cruise Line: Don’t be fooled by the name – Disney Cruise Line is not just for kids! Seniors can also enjoy a magical experience with access to senior-friendly amenities. Disney ships feature accessible staterooms, wheelchair-friendly spaces, and well-trained staff to cater to the needs of older guests. Plus, there are adult-exclusive areas, such as lounges, pools, and restaurants, where seniors can relax and unwind.
• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises combines modern luxury with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice among seniors. Their ships offer accessible staterooms, wheelchair-friendly facilities, and trained staff to assist seniors with mobility needs. Celebrity Cruises also provide a range of activities, including art classes, wine tastings, and live music performances, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

These cruise lines go above and beyond to accommodate the needs and preferences of senior travelers. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious experience, an enriching journey, or a fun-filled adventure, these cruise lines offer the amenities and services necessary for a memorable vacation. Next, we’ll explore the best cruise line for seniors with limited mobility, ensuring that everyone can embark on a fantastic cruise adventure.

The Best Cruise Line for Seniors with Limited Mobility

Sailing the high seas is an incredible experience for seniors with limited mobility, and there are cruise lines that are committed to providing accessible options for these travelers. Let’s explore the best cruise line for seniors with limited mobility:

• Royal Caribbean: Known for its innovation and accessibility, Royal Caribbean is an excellent choice for seniors with limited mobility. Their ships feature accessible cabins, ramps, and elevators, making it easy for wheelchair users to navigate around the ship. Royal Caribbean also offers shore excursions with wheelchair-accessible transportation and facilities, ensuring that seniors can explore ports of call comfortably.
• MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises is dedicated to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all passengers, including seniors with limited mobility. Their ships are equipped with spacious corridors, ramps, and designated wheelchair-accessible cabins. MSC Cruises also offers shore excursions with accessible transportation and facilities, allowing seniors to fully enjoy onshore activities.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has made great strides in ensuring accessibility for seniors with limited mobility. Their ships feature wheelchair-accessible cabins, public areas, and access to dining venues. NCL also offers assistance to seniors with embarkation and disembarkation, as well as accessible transportation for shore excursions.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line is committed to making cruising accessible and enjoyable for all passengers. Their ships have accessible cabins, wheelchair-accessible public areas, and designated seating in theaters and dining venues. Carnival Cruise Line also offers shore excursions specifically designed for seniors with limited mobility.
• Azamara: Azamara is a smaller cruise line that provides a more intimate and accessible experience for seniors with limited mobility. Their ships feature accessible cabins, ramps, and elevators, ensuring easy movement throughout the ship. Azamara also offers shore excursions with accessible transportation and facilities, allowing seniors to explore ports of call comfortably.

These cruise lines prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that seniors with limited mobility can enjoy every aspect of their cruise adventure. From wheelchair-friendly cabins and public areas to accessible transportation for shore excursions, these cruise lines go the extra mile to accommodate the needs of seniors with limited mobility. Next, let’s explore cruise lines that offer activities and entertainment geared towards seniors, enhancing their onboard experience.

Cruise Lines with Activities Geared Towards Seniors

For seniors looking for a cruise experience that caters to their interests and provides engaging activities, there are cruise lines that offer a wide range of options. Let’s take a look at some cruise lines that provide activities geared towards seniors:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers a luxurious experience with a focus on enrichment programs for senior passengers. They provide guest lectures on a variety of topics, ranging from history and art to science and culture. Additionally, Regent offers wine tastings, cooking classes, and book clubs, ensuring there’s something for every intellectually curious senior.
• Cunard Line: Cunard Line is an iconic cruise line that offers classic and refined experiences perfect for seniors. They provide a wide range of activities, including guest speakers, theater performances, dance classes, and arts and crafts sessions. Cunard also offers a traditional afternoon tea service, providing seniors with an opportunity to relax and socialize in a sophisticated setting.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking Ocean Cruises caters to the interests of older passengers with their enrichment programs and cultural activities. They offer lectures on history, art, and destinations, as well as cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. Viking also provides onboard performances, including classical music concerts and theatrical shows, ensuring a refined and engaging experience for senior cruisers.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania Cruises is known for its focus on culinary experiences, making it an excellent choice for food enthusiasts among senior travelers. They offer cooking classes, culinary tours, and wine tastings led by renowned chefs and sommeliers. Oceania also provides painting classes, arts and crafts workshops, and live music performances, ensuring a diverse range of activities for seniors to enjoy.
• Seabourn: Seabourn is a luxury cruise line that provides a personalized and intimate experience for senior passengers. They offer a variety of activities, from guest lectures and dance classes to spa treatments and fitness sessions. Seabourn also organizes exclusive events, such as wine tastings and culinary demonstrations, ensuring a high-quality and enjoyable experience for seniors.

These cruise lines understand the interests and preferences of senior passengers, providing a wide range of activities and enrichment programs tailored to their needs. From educational lectures and cultural experiences to culinary delights and artistic pursuits, these cruise lines ensure that seniors have a truly immersive and engaging onboard experience. Next, let’s discuss cruising options for solo seniors, as many older travelers embark on journeys alone.

Cruising Options for Solo Seniors

For seniors who enjoy the freedom and independence of solo travel, there are cruise lines that cater to solo passengers by offering dedicated programs and accommodations. Let’s explore some of the cruising options for solo seniors:

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line offers a dedicated solo traveler program, “Studio Staterooms,” on their ships. These staterooms are designed specifically for solo travelers and include access to a private lounge and socializing area exclusively for solo passengers. This provides an opportunity for solo seniors to meet fellow travelers and engage in social activities while enjoying their privacy.
• Cunard Line: Cunard Line also offers solo traveler accommodations on select ships, providing a range of stateroom options designed for singles. These cabins offer all the comforts and amenities necessary for solo travelers, including access to private lounges and dining areas. Cunard Line’s formal atmosphere and engaging activities make it an excellent choice for solo seniors looking for a refined and enjoyable experience.
• River Cruises: River cruises are another fantastic option for solo seniors seeking a more intimate and immersive experience. Many river cruise lines, such as AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises, offer solo traveler-friendly policies, including reduced single supplements and dedicated events for solo passengers. These cruises allow solo seniors to explore picturesque riverside destinations while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded fellow travelers.
• Hurtigruten: Hurtigruten, known for its expedition-style cruises, offers several cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. These cabins provide all the necessary amenities and allow solo seniors to experience unique itineraries, including breathtaking journeys to remote destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic. Hurtigruten’s small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere create an ideal setting for solo travelers to connect with fellow adventurers.
• Saga Cruises: Saga Cruises is a cruise line exclusively for passengers aged 50 and above, making it an ideal choice for solo seniors. They offer a variety of cruises designed for solo travelers, with single cabins available across their fleet. Saga Cruises also organizes solo traveler meet-ups and social events, providing opportunities for solo seniors to connect with like-minded individuals.

These cruise lines understand the unique needs and preferences of solo seniors, providing dedicated programs and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you choose a mainstream cruise line that caters to solo travelers or opt for a river cruise or specialized expedition cruise, embarking on a solo journey can be a fulfilling and enriching experience for senior travelers.

Next, let’s discuss health and safety considerations that are crucial for senior cruisers to ensure a worry-free vacation at sea.

Health and Safety Considerations for Senior Cruisers

Health and safety are paramount considerations for senior cruisers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience. Here are some essential health and safety considerations for seniors planning a cruise:

• Medical Facilities and Insurance: Before embarking on a cruise, it’s important for seniors to review the onboard medical facilities and services available. Most cruise lines have medical facilities staffed with trained medical professionals, but it’s advisable to carry travel insurance that covers any potential medical expenses during the cruise.
• Medication Management: Seniors should ensure they have an ample supply of their required medications for the duration of the cruise. It’s also advisable to keep medications in their original containers and carry a copy of the prescription, in case of any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.
• Mobility Assistance: If seniors have limited mobility or require special assistance, it’s important to inform the cruise line in advance to make necessary arrangements. Cruise lines offer amenities such as accessible cabins, wheelchair ramps, and priority boarding to ensure a comfortable experience for seniors with mobility challenges.
• Sanitary Practices: Following good hygiene practices is crucial for maintaining health and safety on a cruise. Seniors should frequently wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizers available throughout the ship. It’s also important to avoid touching the face, especially before cleaning hands, to reduce the risk of infection.
• Dietary Considerations: Informing the cruise line about any specific dietary needs, allergies, or restrictions is essential for seniors to ensure that their dining experience is safe and enjoyable. Cruise lines are well-equipped to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions, including gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-sodium options.
• Staying Hydrated: It’s important for seniors to stay hydrated while on a cruise since spending time in the sun and being in air-conditioned environments can lead to dehydration. Drinking ample fluids, particularly water, is vital to prevent heat-related illnesses and maintain overall well-being.
• Travel Vaccinations: Depending on the cruise itinerary, it’s advisable for seniors to consult with their healthcare provider to ensure they are up-to-date with necessary vaccinations for the destinations they will visit. Some countries may require specific vaccinations as a condition of entry, so it’s essential to take necessary precautions.

By considering these health and safety guidelines, senior cruisers can ensure a worry-free and enjoyable journey. It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before embarking on a cruise to assess your overall health and any specific considerations based on your medical history.

Choosing the best cruise line for seniors involves considering various factors such as accessibility, amenities, activities, and health and safety considerations. Fortunately, there are cruise lines that excel in providing senior-friendly experiences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for older travelers.

Cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Crystal Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises offer senior-friendly amenities, including accessible accommodations, wheelchair-friendly facilities, and a range of enriching activities. These cruise lines go above and beyond to cater to the needs and preferences of seniors, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.

For seniors with limited mobility, cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line provide accessible facilities and accommodations to ensure easy movement throughout the ship. These cruise lines also offer shore excursions with accessible transportation and facilities, allowing seniors to explore ports of call comfortably.

Cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Cunard Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Seabourn provide activities and entertainment geared towards seniors, offering enrichment programs, cultural experiences, and culinary delights to engage and entertain older passengers.

For seniors traveling solo, cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard Line, and river cruises provide dedicated solo traveler accommodations and programs. These options allow solo seniors to enjoy their privacy while offering opportunities to meet and socialize with fellow travelers.

Health and safety considerations are paramount for senior cruisers. Checking medical facilities and carrying travel insurance, managing medications, practicing good hygiene, and informing the cruise line about dietary needs are vital for a safe and healthy cruise experience.

In conclusion, senior travelers have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing the best cruise line. By considering factors like accessibility, amenities, activities, and health and safety precautions, seniors can embark on a memorable cruise adventure that caters to their unique preferences and needs. So set sail and enjoy the incredible experiences awaiting you on the high seas!

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8 Best Cruises for Seniors

Updated : April 18, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

• Holland America Cruise Line
• Viking River Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• AmaWaterways
• Silversea Cruise Line
• Azamara Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruise Line

Plan Your Senior Cruise With AAA.

Cruising is a vacation experience that is universally loved — but seniors often find that they’re looking for something a little bit different out of their voyages. Cruises for seniors tend to be quieter, more intimate and, in many ways, more engaging, with a plethora of things to do .

Those who are looking into cruising as a senior have different priorities. Whether you are hoping to book a cruise for single seniors, or embarking on a retirement celebration, you will want to keep the following in mind:

• Choose a cruise line that caters to adult travelers. Many of the larger, more well-known cruise lines appeal to families, young travelers or large groups, which can give them a lively or raucous atmosphere. By prioritizing a cruise line that focuses on adult travelers, you are going to find a ship that offers the dynamic you crave.
• Select a cruise line that goes out of its way to accommodate all types of travelers, regardless of their needs. Cruise lines that include mobility assistance or personalized accommodation will be able to provide you with the best possible experience.
• Focus on cruise lines that offer cultural experiences and immersive destinations. For many seniors, cruising is a convenient and comfortable way to see the world and they are often looking to visit ports of call that allow them to broaden their horizons.
• Look for cruise lines that specialize in low-impact adventures. You are not limited by your age, but you may need to be more mindful about the types of excursions and activities that you enjoy during your cruise.

In order to take a comprehensive look at the best cruises for seniors and to understand the offerings that would best align with your personal needs for your trip, you should consider booking your voyage with a cruise travel agent who specializes in senior cruises. An experienced cruise travel agent will be able to match you with the perfect cruising experience and secure you the best possible package for your adventure.

These are the cruise lines that are considered to be the best cruises for seniors:

1. Holland America Cruise Line

Appealing to those who are looking to indulge in luxury, the Holland America Cruise Line has long been favored among seasoned travelers who are enjoying their golden years. While this cruise line does not necessarily offer specific senior cruises, you will find that most voyages consist primarily of adult travelers, which makes them quieter and more laid-back than sailings on other cruise lines.

With 11 ships in its fleet and itineraries that span across the globe, the Holland America Cruise Line has no shortage of options. Seniors who are looking to check off those bucket list destinations will find their selections to be inviting, with trips to Australia, Africa and the Panama Canal available.

2. Viking River Cruises

Many seniors consider the Viking River Cruises to be the ultimate cruising experience, largely because these sailings are designed with adults over the age of 50 in mind. With intimate ships, exclusive dining experiences and excursions that appeal to cultured, seasoned travelers, Viking River Cruises offer a refined and relaxed atmosphere that is hard to resist.

Known primarily for their river cruises, Viking ships are smaller and quieter, providing guests with a leisurely glide down some of the most important waterways in the world. Its European cruise options are particularly popular, with many first-time river cruises selecting itineraries that trek down the Rhine River through Paris and into the Alps, or the Danube River, which winds throughout Germany. Recently, Viking River Cruises began adding ocean sailings, helping to expand the brand and allowing seniors to broaden their horizons while sticking with their favorite cruising experiences.

3. Cunard Line

Built according to the traditional ideals of the British, the Cunard Line is a sophisticated cruise line that is preferred by polished travelers who enjoy a sense of sophistication and culture while they are abroad. Compared to other cruise lines that offer glittering casinos and a vibrant nightlife scene, Cunard specializes in sailings that feel as if they are a relic from an era gone by. The Queen Mary 2, considered to be the gem of its fleet, is known for its libraries, planetarium and tearoom and travelers often spend their days at sea attending lectures or reading books on deck. On the Cunard Line, the evenings require cocktail attire or formal attire, adding to the customary atmosphere.

4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The Regent Seven Seas Cruises are considered to be the ultimate in luxury, specializing in world-class destinations, bespoke services designed for affluent travelers and opulent, suite-style state rooms. Most travelers on board their fleet of grand ships are over the age of 55, however, there are some multi-generational parties who book these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The ships within the Regent Seven Seas fleet travel to more than 450 destinations around the world, allowing seniors to choose from far-off, exotic locales that other cruise lines may never venture to. In addition to enjoying immersive, first-class tours at these destinations, travelers on board the ships benefit from customized butler service, extravagant meals and state-of-the-art fitness centers. Whether you are interested in cruises for single seniors or a romantic getaway that feels like a second honeymoon, you will be able to enjoy a personalized, indulgent experience when you book a Regent Seven Seas cruise.

5. AmaWaterways

Known for its sleek ship designs that provide guests with prime viewing locations as they glide down European rivers, AmaWaterways is a pioneer in river cruising. Similar to Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways markets its cruises to seniors who are looking for a restful voyage that provides an opportunity for cultural immersion and historical experiences.

Most AmaWaterways cruises embark down European rivers, such as the Danube River or the Rhine River. However, it has recently expanded its offerings in order to include bucket list destinations, such as safari cruises through Africa or Nile River cruises that wind through the heart of Egypt.

6. Silversea Cruise Line

If you are looking to book an upscale cruise for seniors, then look no further than the Silversea Cruise Line . Specializing in the ultra-luxury market, the Silversea Cruise Line offers sailings that travel to more than 120 countries around the globe, giving travelers the opportunity to reach exotic destinations, such as Bora Bora or Bird Island in South Africa. Every stateroom on the ship is a suite and each suite comes with its own butler service, allowing you to enjoy a tailor-made experience that leads to a truly memorable voyage.

7. Azamara Cruise Line

Seniors who are searching for a lively and adventurous cruise that is still catered to meet their unique needs will love the offerings from Azamara Cruise Line . Featuring a fleet of small cruise ships, Azamara Cruise Lines offers many of the exciting amenities as the mega ships without the chaos and noise. Its interactive activities, such as arts and crafts clubs as well as dinner and dancing events make this one of the best cruises for single seniors.

In addition, this cruise line goes out of its way to accommodate travelers with mobility limitations. All guests can enjoy tailor-made shore excursions and many excursions can be adapted in order to accommodate those with mobility restrictions. As a result, it's one of the most inclusive and immersive cruise lines for seniors.

8. Oceania Cruise Line

On the Oceania Cruise Line , elegance and opulence reign supreme. Boasting a fleet of 10 small ships, this cruise line is able to access some of the more exclusive ports, giving travelers the opportunity to enjoy quiet, immersive experiences in lesser-known locales around the world.

While its world-class itineraries are unbeatable, many travelers find that it's tough to disembark from the ship, thanks to its exquisite culinary program. Fine dining is the standard on board these ships, allowing you to enjoy flavor-infused meals that truly nourish the soul.

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Best Cruises for Single Seniors in 2024

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What Are Singles Cruises for Seniors?

If you’re a senior who enjoys solo travel and meeting new people, you might want to book a singles cruise. These adventures can be a great way for older adults to enjoy traveling alone at surprisingly affordable prices. Beyond singles cruises, you can also look into general cruise lines that cater to the older set.

Pro Tip: To learn more about my favorite cruises, read my guide to the best cruises for seniors .

The Advantages of Singles Cruises for Seniors

Singles cruises for seniors offer many benefits, such as discounted room prices, wine tasting, and onboard entertainment –– not to mention plenty of opportunities to meet other singles.

Less planning

Since most singles cruises are all-inclusive, you don’t have to worry about last-minute itinerary planning. Most singles cruises provide a day-by-day itinerary with information on daily activities, events, and excursions. For those who want an adventurous time without having to plan, a cruise is a great option. Personally, planning travel makes me anxious, so I love handing the process over to the professionals.

Meeting new people

A singles cruise is designed to cater to people of all ages who are looking to meet new people. If you’re recently divorced or looking for a new relationship, a singles cruise offers an opportunity to meet others in a similar position. These cruises will often have programs like speed dating and dances to help facilitate interactions. Plus, some cruises cater to singles specifically, giving you a discount or “single supplement.”

Courses and events

Singles cruises offer plenty of great activities, such as wine tastings, chef-prepared meals, dancing, pool parties, concerts, and group exercises. All of this helps make it easier to meet new people.

• Viking Ocean Cruises : Best Overall Value
• Singles Travel International : Made for Singles
• Silversea : Luxurious and All-Inclusive
• Tauck World Discovery : Great Expeditions
• Holland America Line : 35-Day Trips
• Solos Holidays : Social Activities
• Cunard : Great Onboard Entertainment
• Riviera River Cruises : Great for Solo Travelers
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises : Discounts Available

1. Viking Ocean Cruises - Best Overall Value

What we like most:.

• Wide range of trips
• Luxurious suites
• Excellent customer service
• Risk-free guarantee

Cost: $799+ per person

Viking offers river, ocean, and expedition voyages on all seven continents. I could choose from a variety of cruise destinations, including Scandinavia, Northern Europe, Asia, and Australia. As the world’s leading small-ship cruise line, Viking Ocean Cruises has a fleet of new, state-of-the-art ocean ships, ranging from Viking Star to Viking Saturn. Each ocean ship can carry up to 930 adult guests for an intimate experience and longer overnight stays at ports. With so many adults on a boat, it was easy for me to meet people, especially at meal times.

To book a cruise, I simply visited the Viking website and selected the region, departure date, and duration of my stay. If you’re looking to travel to Scandinavia and Northern Europe for a duration of 12 days, you can choose your sail date and include a promo code to get the best deals. You can also select the number of guests and specify the type of stateroom or suite you would like to book.

Viking Ocean Cruises offers a risk-free guarantee for guests, allowing you to change your cruise date up to 14 days before your departure. Viking will also waive any change fees. Other features of this cruise include spacious veranda staterooms and suites. In addition to a variety of destinations, Viking Ocean Cruises offers special savings on both airfare and cruise costs.

FYI: Cruises aren’t the only way to meet that special someone. Consider trying one of the best dating websites for seniors .

2. Singles Travel International - Made for Singles

• Made specifically for singles
• Worldwide destinations
• Meet-and-greets onboard
• Online community

Cost: $7,173 average, but ranges from $2,398 to $14,779

With affordable (comparatively speaking) cruises starting at $2,398 per person, Singles Travel International is a tour agency that offers fun cruise destination trips for single seniors over the age of 50. With several destination options ranging from Antarctica, Africa, and South America, seniors can enjoy a fun solo getaway at affordable prices.

With over 28 years in business, Singles Travel International offers great savings on single supplements, free membership, and fun singles cruise meet-and-greets and cocktail hours. Other benefits include an option to find a travel companion and ongoing promotions and discounts.  For example, when I was booking my trip, I could’ve saved thousands by getting a premium membership. This is a good option if you think you want to take cruises more regularly.

Plus, when I signed up for a free membership, I got a $50 discount on my first vacation and free access to its online community for senior singles over the age of 50.

3. Silversea - Luxurious and All-Inclusive

• Made specifically for seniors
• Generous all-inclusive options
• Onboard spas and fitness centers
• Gourmet dining

Cost: $3,600+ per person

If you’re looking to pamper yourself with a luxury cruise, Silversea provides amazing shore excursions and all-inclusive service covering 900 destinations. Although pricing is on the high side, you can still find plenty of great deals on both airfare and transfers. With Silversea, you can travel and explore new destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Asia, and Alaska –– all while enjoying the views from your luxury oceanview suite.

Booking as a solo traveler, I received a 25 percent single supplement on some voyages, which means a 25 percent discount. Not every cruise line offers this discount, as each room can support two people, typically.

You can choose from all-inclusive cruises or special Silversea Expeditions luxury cruises if you’re looking to travel to remote regions. Some of the benefits of choosing Silversea include complimentary beverages, gourmet dining, shore excursions, and educational lectures on the places you’re visiting. As someone who loves to learn, I found this trip both educational and fun, not to mention delicious.

With Silversea’s all-inclusive offerings, you’ll also enjoy personalized services with butler service for all its suites. Additionally, you’ll have access to a luxurious spa and fitness center, along with a beauty salon and acupuncture services for older adults with arthritis or back pain. It was lovely to have a spa to come home to after a long day exploring!

4. Tauck World Discovery - Great Expeditions

• Extensive guided land tours
• River and ocean cruises
• Fine dining
• Panoramic sun decks

Cost: $3,990+ per person

Looking for a solo getaway? Tauck World Discovery offers solo cruise adventures for older adults. Consider booking a solo trip on one of its European River Cruises, with prices starting at $4,390 per person for eight- to 25-day tours. In addition to river and small-ship cruises, Tauck offers guided land tours in destinations like Africa, Canada, Israel and Jordan, and Latin America.

We recommend solo travelers book one of the European River Cruises. For example, I was interested in the longest, Grand European Cruise, a 25-day cruise that hits Amsterdam, Budapest, Vienna, Nuremberg, Regensburg, and Koln. It starts at $13,990. I like this cruise because it will allow me to see nine European countries and stay three nights in Bucharest. Altogether, I am going to see these countries:

• Netherlands

Other features and benefits of booking a cruise through Tauck is that you’ll enjoy unlimited complimentary beverages, fine dining, and amenities such as a fitness center, spa, and sun deck featuring panoramic views of the river. For the European River Cruises, some of the destinations include the Danube, Douro, and Rhone rivers.

5. Holland America Line - 35-Day Trips

• Trips up to 133 days long
• Helpful smartphone app
• Onboard casinos
• Wine tastings

Cost: $499+ per person

With 149 years in business, Holland America Line offers 19 cruise destinations with over 473 ports. If you’re looking for an affordable cruise option, I recommend traveling with Holland America Line. Its Worry-Free Promise program gives guests the chance to change their cruise plans or cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure if you or a travel party tests positive for COVID-19.

Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 classic ships with destinations and ports in Alaska, Europe, the Panama Canal, Asia, and more. You can choose from seven- to 133-day cruise trips, depending on your destination and travel needs. The longest cruise goes from pole to pole, leaving and departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. If you’re a single senior, you’ll love the amenities the cruise ship offers, such as classical cruise ship music, theatrical shows, concerts, and other live entertainment.

Some of the additional features of this cruise line include spacious suites and staterooms, along with unique dining options and a casino. You can also use its free mobile-friendly app to personalize your cruise experience and browse your planned activities for the day. Depending on the cruise ship you choose, you can also participate in wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.

Did You Know: Before you head for the sea, be sure to have your travel insurance in order.

6. Solos Holidays - Social Activities

• Caters to solo travelers
• Great onboard entertainment
• Spacious rooms
• Ample social activities

Cost: $261+ per person

Solos Holidays caters to solo travelers who enjoy going to exciting destinations while meeting new people. Based in London, this company focuses on “singles holidays” and offers a wide selection of destinations across the globe. Some of the cruise destinations include Europe, Australia, Asia, and Africa.

I recommend going on A Taste of the Fjords. I departed from London and spent seven nights in Norway (prices start at $1,420 per person). On the ship, dining and entertainment options were plentiful, and the destinations — Bergen, Flam, and Stavanger —  were beautiful and picturesque. Plus, as a single, it was nice being with a group of eight and a tour leader, as I didn’t feel lonely. This is one of the more affordable cruise options, which is always appreciated.

7. Cunard - Great Onboard Entertainment

• Low starting prices
• Orchestra performances
• Onboard libraries and gyms
• Planetarium shows

Cost: $699+ per person

Cunard provides luxury cruise services across the globe. In fact, in the past, it has had esteemed guests like Elizabeth Taylor and Charlie Chaplain onboard its ships. Depending on the type of vacation and travel experience you’re looking for, you can anticipate spending around $699 per person for an English cruise to up to $2,199 per person for a Caribbean cruise. This is incredibly affordable, as cruises can cost tens of thousands of dollars, which is not in my budget. Here are the prices I saw when I looked in October 2023:

When you book a cruise with Cunard, you’ll enjoy amenities such as afternoon tea, live orchestra performances, and events moderated by prolific speakers. In addition to spacious open decks and Broadway-style shows, seniors will enjoy a packed itinerary of events and activities.

Other features include twice-daily turndown services, concierge services, personal butlers, great dining options, and complimentary room service. Guests can also enjoy group dance classes, planetarium shows, and access to the library and gym facilities.

We recommend choosing one of its seven-day transatlantic cruises onboard its Queen Mary 2. The best part is you’ll have access to live performances from the Royal Shakespeare Company, along with various accommodations to make your stay enjoyable. Cruises start at $849 per person for a Christmas 2023 voyage.

8. Riviera River Cruises - Great for Solo Travelers

• Luxurious amenities
• Niche destinations
• Flexible trips

Cost: $899+ per month

Riviera River Cruises offers several river cruises in Europe and other destinations around the world. Solo travelers can expect to pay around $899 to $5,479 for longer-duration trips.

If you enjoy solo traveling without sharing a room, then we’d recommend the Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg River Cruise for Solo Travelers. This eight-day cruise starts at $2,449 per person and features eight guided tours, a live classical quartet recital, daily meals, and five-star services. For this particular cruise, you’ll embark in Cologne and visit destinations like the Rhine Gorge and the historic Mainz port. Plus, there are departures aimed at solo travelers specifically, which start at $2,749 per person. Unfortunately, there’s no single supplement, but there are also no additional fees; I paid the listed price, which was a welcome departure from other cruise lines and their many hidden fees.

When you choose Riviera River Cruises, you’ll enjoy amenities and features like daily morning and afternoon tea and coffee, along with full daily meals, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the option to extend your cruise. Other benefits include access to an expert cruise director and concierge services to help make for an enjoyable stay.

Pro Tip: To start planning your next trip, be sure to check out my rundown of the best travel destinations for seniors .

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Discounts Available

• Over 450 ports
• Great discounts
• Spacious accommodations
• Tours up to 21 days in length

Cost: $6,074+ per person

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers all-inclusive luxury travel around the world, with over 450 ports of call. Each ship can carry up to 750 guests, with destinations in Africa, Arabia, Alaska, Asia, and the Mediterranean. The average price with the single supplement ranges from $6,074 per person from Cape Town to Rio De Janeiro to as high as $12,562 for an 18-day cruise from Sydney to Singapore.

Not every cruise line offers discounted prices for singles, so although these prices are on the higher side, they’re a good option for singles who want a more luxurious experience and have the funds for it.

Some of the benefits of choosing a cruise from Regent Seven Seas Cruises include all-inclusive fares, free open bars, and unlimited beverages, along with free access to specialty restaurants. You’ll also receive free unlimited internet and up to a 50 percent discount for a reduced single supplement for select suite categories.

Bottom Line

If you’re single and want to meet new people, a cruise can be a great way to step out of your comfort zone. Many cruises cater to solo travelers and single seniors, providing ample opportunities to participate in mixers, galas, and other activities aboard a ship. Many cruise lines will often offer great discounts for those who book one-passenger trips, so be on the lookout for those deals throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. There are many singles cruises for seniors to book throughout the year.

Cruise lines that don’t allow kids include Viking Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and P&O Cruises.

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here

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Top 10 Cruise Lines for Senior Travelers

Sailing on a journey of leisure and discovery, seniors seek cruise lines that offer vacations and unforgettable all-around experiences. With a focus on comfort, luxury, and tailored amenities, selecting the perfect cruise line becomes paramount. Discover the top ten cruise lines catering to the elderly, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and world-class service.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Popularly known as “the thinking person’s cruise line,” embarking on an expedition on the Viking Ocean Cruises offers seniors a blend of luxury and cultural immersion. With enriching shore excursions, spacious accommodations, and a strict no kids and no casinos policy, the cruise caters to mature travelers seeking refined experiences.

Royal Caribbean International

The Royal Caribbean International promises elders an adventure-filled journey with state-of-the-art amenities and diverse onboard activities. From Broadway-style shows to culinary delights, every moment onboard is a vibrant celebration of life.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line’s timeless elegance and personalized service create an atmosphere of sophistication for older guests. The sail line has heavily invested in onboard entertainment activities like pickleball, and the passengers can enjoy gourmet dining and live music performances, ensuring that indulgence awaits at every turn on their classic ships.

Oceania Cruises

For elders seeking a more intimate cruising experience, Oceania Cruises delivers with its smaller ships and destination-focused itineraries. With their extensive destination catalog that includes Africa, South America, the Caribbean, Antarctica, and more, one is not short of travel choices. Culinary connoisseurs are not left behind either, as the master chefs prepare a variety of gourmet cuisines.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises caters to seniors with comfortable accommodations and enriching onboard activities, including art auctions and educational seminars. In comparison to other excursions, Princess is one of the best when it comes to caring for the elderly and the disabled. All their vessels are fitted with plenty of wheelchair-accessible lifts and cabins, ensuring that everyone is catered for.

Crystal Cruises

When it comes to high-end cruising, no one does it better than Crystal Cruises. With its all-inclusive luxury, attention to detail, and high passenger-to-guest ratio, the liner is a favorite among seniors. As a high passenger-to-guest ratio and all-inclusive luxury liner, the liner pampers seniors with exceptional service and all-inclusive luxury. Every aspect of the journey exudes luxury and sophistication, from butler-serviced suites to world-class entertainment.

For any senior intrigued by traditionalist vibes, the Cunard is the cruise to board. The iconic ocean liners offer senior citizens a taste of maritime history coupled with modern comforts. Alongside elegant ballrooms, traditional afternoon tea, captivating lectures, and one of the largest libraries at sea, it’s an expedition steeped in tradition and refinement.

Silversea Cruises

With over 900 destinations worldwide, Silversea Cruises provides older folks with an intimate and luxurious sailing experience aboard their small, ultra-luxury ships. The ships accommodate scooters and wheelchairs, and all suites come with a dedicated butler who helps provide personalized service for the passengers.

Azamara, famously known for its immersive destination experiences and boutique-style ships, offers a peak travel experience for seniors. The voyage is cost-friendly, with the base fare covering all meals and beverages. What’s more, there are plenty of entertainment options, ranging from dance lessons, bingo, arts and crafts, and a White Night signature dinner event.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is undoubtedly the best cruise for elders who want to bring their grandchildren on a trip. The liner has an unmatched all-inclusive sail experience, with the airfare, meals, drinks, and excursion costs all covered in the base fare. Since most passengers are above 55 years old, Regent is also perfect for solo travelers.  

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Blog » Resources » 10 Best Cruise Lines for Seniors in 2024

10 Best Cruise Lines for Seniors in 2024

You have found our helpful list of the 10 best cruise lines for seniors in 2024

A list of the best cruise lines for seniors is a curated compilation of cruise line companies that have consistently demonstrated a remarkable commitment to providing an exceptional and enriching cruise experience specifically tailored to the needs and preferences of senior travelers. These cruise lines recognize the unique travel style and preferences of seniors, carefully crafting their offerings to ensure a seamless, comfortable, and enjoyable voyage. From providing spacious and well-appointed accommodations to catering to diverse interests and dietary needs, these cruise lines go the extra mile to make seniors feel welcomed, valued, and engaged throughout their journey.

This list includes:

• The 10 best cruise Lines for seniors in 2024
• 10 cruise lines catering to seniors to watch in 2024
• Cruise line vacations for seniors
• Senior preferences for cruise lines
• Cruise lines that seniors prefer

Let’s get to it!

10 Best Cruise Lines for Seniors

As the years gracefully unfold, the desire for exploration and adventure remains a constant companion. For many seniors, embarking on a cruise is an enticing prospect, offering a unique blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and opportunities for personal enrichment. However, navigating the vast array of cruise line options can be a daunting task, especially for those seeking a tailored experience that caters to their specific needs and preferences. This is where a list of the best cruise lines for seniors proves to be an invaluable guide. Compiled with careful consideration of the unique needs and aspirations of senior travelers, this list presents a curated selection of cruise line companies that have consistently demonstrated a remarkable commitment to providing an exceptional and enriching cruise experience specifically tailored to this demographic. From prioritizing comfort and accessibility to offering diverse enrichment programs and personalized service, these cruise lines strive to create a seamless, enjoyable, and memorable journey for seniors, ensuring that their golden years are filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

1. Silversea Cruises

This ultra-luxury cruise line offers an unparalleled level of service and amenities, making it a perfect choice for discerning seniors. Guests can enjoy spacious suites, gourmet dining, and a variety of enrichment programs.

2. Viking Cruises

This upscale cruise line is known for its destination-focused itineraries and its focus on cultural enrichment. Seniors will appreciate the smaller ship sizes, which make it easier to get around, and the variety of lectures and workshops offered onboard.

3. Oceania Cruises

This mid-sized cruise line offers a sophisticated and elegant experience, catering to a discerning clientele. Seniors will enjoy the spacious accommodations, the attentive service, and the variety of dining options.

4. Holland America Line

This traditional cruise line is known for its classic elegance and its focus on providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Seniors will appreciate the comfortable accommodations, the variety of activities and amenities, and the friendly and attentive service.

5. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

This ultra-luxury cruise line offers an all-inclusive experience, with everything from gratuities to shore excursions included in the fare. Seniors will enjoy the luxurious accommodations, the gourmet dining, and the impeccable service.

6. Windstar Cruises

This small-ship cruise line offers a more intimate and personalized experience, with a focus on providing a high level of service. Seniors will appreciate the smaller ship sizes, which make it easier to get around, and the variety of ports of call.

7. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

This river cruise line offers a unique and immersive experience, taking guests on a journey through the heart of Europe. Seniors will enjoy the smaller ship sizes, the leisurely pace of the journey, and the opportunity to explore charming towns and villages.

8. Crystal Cruises

This luxury cruise line offers an all-inclusive experience, with everything from gratuities to fine wines and spirits included in the fare. Seniors will enjoy the luxurious accommodations, the gourmet dining, and the impeccable service.

9. Tauck River Cruises

This upscale river cruise line offers a luxurious and immersive experience, taking guests on a journey through the heart of Europe. Seniors will enjoy the spacious accommodations, the attentive service, and the variety of shore excursions.

10. American Queen Voyages

This paddle wheel river cruise line offers a unique and nostalgic experience, taking guests on a journey through the heart of America. Seniors will enjoy the spacious accommodations, the variety of activities and amenities, and the opportunity to explore historic towns and cities.

As we conclude our exploration of the best cruise lines for seniors, it becomes evident that embarking on a voyage designed specifically for this demographic is not merely a vacation; it’s an opportunity to rediscover the joy of exploration, embrace new experiences, and create lasting memories. These cruise lines have not only set the standard for exceptional service and personalized attention but have also carefully curated a diverse array of activities, amenities, and destinations, ensuring that every senior traveler can find a journey that aligns with their individual preferences and interests.  Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a combination of these elements, these cruise lines have paved the way for a seamless and enriching introduction to the world of cruising, specially tailored for seniors. So, step aboard with an open mind, embrace the excitement of new discoveries, and let the magic of cruising unfold, creating a cherished memory that will forever be etched in your traveler’s heart.

FAQ: 10 Best Cruise Lines for Seniors in 2024

Here are some frequently asked questions about the 10 Best Cruise Lines for Seniors in 2024.

Do cruise lines offer special packages for seniors?

Yes, many cruise lines offer special packages for seniors. These packages typically include a variety of discounts and perks, such as:

Reduced fares: Cruise lines often offer discounted rates for seniors. These discounts can be significant, sometimes saving you hundreds of dollars or more on your cruise fare.

Onboard credits: Cruise lines may also offer onboard credits to seniors. These credits can be used to purchase onboard activities, such as shore excursions, spa treatments, and specialty dining.

Free upgrades: Some cruise lines offer free upgrades to seniors. These upgrades may include a better stateroom, access to exclusive amenities, or priority boarding.

Special events: Cruise lines may also host special events for seniors, such as welcome receptions and onboard tours.

What sorts of shore excursions are good for seniors?

Shore excursions are a great way to enhance your cruise experience and explore new destinations. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which excursions are right for you, especially as a senior traveler. Here are some factors to consider when choosing shore excursions for seniors:

Mobility: Choose excursions that are within your physical abilities and don’t require excessive walking or strenuous activity.

Interests: Select excursions that align with your personal interests, whether it’s history, culture, nature, or something else entirely.

Duration: Consider the length of the excursion and ensure it fits comfortably within your port time schedule.

Accessibility: Opt for excursions that offer accessible transportation, restrooms, and facilities to accommodate any mobility needs.

What should a senior consider in picking a cruise line for a vacation?

A: Choosing the right cruise line for a senior can greatly enhance the overall vacation experience. Here are some important factors to consider:

Cruise Line Reputation and Experience: Opt for cruise lines with a proven track record of providing exceptional service, catering to the needs of senior travelers, and maintaining high standards of safety and comfort.

Ship Size and Amenities: Consider your preference for smaller, more intimate ships or larger vessels with a wider range of amenities and activities. Smaller ships may offer a more personalized experience and easier navigation, while larger ships provide more entertainment options and spacious common areas.

Destinations and Itineraries: Select cruise lines that offer itineraries aligned with your interests and preferences. Choose destinations that intrigue you, whether it’s exploring historic cities, immersing in diverse cultures, or enjoying scenic coastlines.

Accommodation Options: Carefully review the various stateroom categories to find one that suits your comfort and privacy needs. Consider factors like size, location, balcony access, and accessibility features.

Dining Options and Dietary Needs: Choose cruise lines that cater to diverse palates and dietary restrictions. Ensure they offer a variety of dining venues, including buffet-style, fine dining, and options for specific dietary requirements.

Enrichment Programs and Activities: Review the range of onboard activities and enrichment programs to ensure they align with your interests. Look for options like lectures, workshops, cultural experiences, fitness classes, and entertainment tailored for seniors.

Shore Excursions and Accessibility: Explore the shore excursions offered by the cruise line to ensure they cater to your mobility needs and interests. Check if excursions provide accessible transportation, restrooms, and facilities.

Special Offers and Senior Packages: Check for any special discounts, promotions, or packages specifically designed for seniors. These may include reduced fares, onboard credits, or complimentary upgrades.

Reviews and Recommendations: Gather feedback from other seniors who have cruised with the selected line. Read online reviews and seek recommendations from travel agents or fellow travelers to gain insights into the overall experience.

Personalize Your Experience: Communicate any specific needs or preferences to the cruise line in advance, such as mobility assistance, dietary restrictions, or special requests. This allows them to personalize your experience and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

TOP CRUISE LINES, SHIPS, AND PLACES FOR SENIORS: Bucket List Ocean and River Experiences for the 2020s

by Cruzus Staff | Apr 20, 2021 | Cruises , Top 21 | 0 comments

Top Cruise Lines, Ships, and Places for Seniors:

Bucket list ocean and river experiences for the 2020s, a changing industry pauses and recalibrates, the good, the bad, and the ugly, hold the obituary – we’re not dead, yet, cruise capacity revealed, cruise decisions and your personality, most senior-friendly cruise lines, bucket list cruises for seniors, largest cruise ships in the world, cruise lines and fleet additions catering to seniors.

Best Expedition Cruises

Best Luxury Yacht Cruises

Best River Cruises

More Senior Cruising Experiences Ahead

Over 30 million people were cruising in 2019, which represented nearly 2 percent of the global travel industry. While most were ocean cruisers, nearly 3 million were river cruisers. Representing two different cruise experiences, ocean and river cruises appeal to different types of travelers: 

• River cruise ships (50 to 200 passengers) have limited onboard facilities and activities since they are very destination-oriented with guests spending a great deal of time docked at inland river ports from where the tour onshore sites and engage in local activities. Most river cruise ships have one dining room, limited entertainment, and lots of face time with fellow passengers.
• Ocean cruise ships (300 to 5,500 passengers) are less destination-intensive since they are designed to offer a “cruise experience” complete with numerous onboard facilities and activities and some onshore experiences the originate in major international cruise ports; very large cruise ships (4,000+ passengers) offer multiple restaurants (20+) and several high-energy activities (rock climbing, ziplining, rollercoasters, go-cart racing, water slides, belly-flop contests), bars, programs, shopping, and entertainment venues. 

According to CruiseMapper.com, the average passenger size of ocean cruise ships is 3,000; the average passenger size of large river cruise ships is only 150.  While some ports (especially Venice, Dubrovnik, Santorini, Barcelona, Key West, and the Galapagos) complain about being overwhelmed with cruise visitors (the curse of overtourism), nonetheless, the cruise industry is an economic multiplier – when up and running it employs nearly 2 million people worldwide and contributes more than $150 billion to the global economy. But there’s a heavy price to be paid for such ostensible “success.”

Healthy by traditional P&L economic indicators (very profitable), the cruise industry is troubling by other measures (environmental impact and externality costs). Indeed, it has a long history of “dirty energy” consumption (cruise ships use the most toxic and polluting fuels), dumping trash and untreated sewage at sea and in ports, and generating plastic pollution. They are not known as environmentally-friendly companies or good stewards of the environment. Many are floating trash cans doing irreparable damage to the environment (polluting waters, damaging coral reefs, disrupting fisheries, trashing beaches).

All segments of the cruise industry faced unprecedented uncertainty about their futures and the travel industry. A great deal of collateral damage was evident in the economies of 2,000 port cities – especially those in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Europe, and Alaska – which where disproportionately impacted by the shutdown of cruise ships as well as in the major cruise ship building yards of Germany, Italy, France, Finland, and South Korea. 

• Ships – 24
• Passenger Capacity – 88,000
• Ships – 23
• Passenger Capacity – 70,700
• Ships – 19
• Passenger Capacity – 62,700
• Ships – 17
• Passenger Capacity – 49,800
• Ships – 16
• Passenger Capacity – 44,000

Parent Company: Carnival

• Ships – 15
• Passenger Capacity – 36,786
• Ships – 12
• Passenger Capacity – 35,900
• Passenger Capacity – 20,400
• Ships – 7
• Passenger Capacity – 16,600
• Ships – 6
• Passenger Capacity – 2,818
• Ships – 3
• Passenger Capacity – 6,700
• Passenger Capacity – 5,000

Total : Ships - 98, Capacity - 239,704

Parent company: royal, parent company: caribbean.

• Ships – 14
• Passenger Capacity – 28,500
• Ships – 9
• Passenger Capacity – 3,100

Total : Ships - 47, Capacity - 119,600

Parent company: norwegian, total : ships - 28, capacity - 58,400, parent company: all other.

• Ships – 22
• Passenger Capacity – 4,400
• Passenger Capacity – 7,300
• Ships – 8
• Passenger Capacity – 7,400
• Passenger Capacity – 17,000
• Passenger Capacity – 1,200
• Ships – 5
• Passenger Capacity – 700
• Passenger Capacity – 5,700
• Passenger Capacity – 798
• Ships – 4
• Passenger Capacity – 8,500
• Passenger Capacity – 13,600
• Passenger Capacity – 2,500
• Passenger Capacity – 2,800
• Passenger Capacity – 5,300
• Passenger Capacity – 4,132
• Passenger Capacity – 2,100
• Passenger Capacity – 2,250
• Passenger Capacity – 600
• Ships – 2
• Passenger Capacity – 200
• Passenger Capacity – 3,300
• Passenger Capacity – 100
• Passenger Capacity – 2,600
• Passenger Capacity – 1,998
• Passenger Capacity – 5,720
• Ships – 1
• Passenger Capacity – 400

Total : Ships - 148, Capacity - 161,398

Grand total : ships - 323, capacity - 581,202.

What type of cruiser are you? Let’s start by considering options by addressing these 18 preference/like questions:

• Do you like big, intermediate, or small ships – from 5,000 to 200 passengers?  
• Do you prefer ocean cruise ships or river cruise ships?  
• Do you want an expensive suite with lots of room or a standard cabin with a balcony, a basic cabin with a window only, or an inexpensive and even smaller inside cabin?  
• What about all inclusive versus the standard pay-as-you-go cruises (lots of extras), which include required gratuities, pricey drinks, and upcharges on specialty restaurants (sometimes referred to as nickel-and-diming cruise ships)?  
• Do you like to associate with young people and families; do you prefer adults-only cruises with mid-aged professionals and/or a 65+ senior crowd; or do you like to mix with all age groups?  
• Do you enjoy meeting strangers, listening to and telling stories, and making lots of small talk about the standard “we just arrived” questions — “Where are from? Have you cruised a lot? What’s your favorite cruise line and destinations?” — over a dinner table filled with food, drinks, and talkers.  
• Are you a casual cruiser (prefer minimal dress codes and no coat/tie or dressy dress required) or do you prefer occasionally getting dressed up for dinner, dancing, and galas?  
• Are you looking for a bargain cruise ($80 to $200 a day per passenger, mainly sailing on older ships or on huge mega ships cruising the Caribbean) or do you have luxury cruising on your mind ($500 to $1,300 a day per passenger)?  
• If you prefer luxury cruising, are you primarily interested in 800-1,200 passenger luxury cruises, 300-700 passenger luxury cruises, or under 300 passenger luxury cruises, including under 200 passenger luxury yachts (some come complete with helicopters and submarines!)?  
• Do you prefer lots of onboard activities or are you looking for only a few appealing things to do, such as attending enrichment programs, playing bridge, or hanging out at the lounge and listening to an oldies-but-goodies or jazz dual (pianist and singer)?  
• Are you a foodie who prefers ships with noted specialty restaurants and culinary activities or are you normally satisfied with typical cruise cuisine, including buffets?  
• Do you prefer dining in a main dining room that has open seating or one with assigned seating and designated seating times?  
• Are you especially interested in destinations in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Northern Europe or do prefer more exotic places such as Asia, Australis, South Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and South America?  
• What about leisure cruises that go to Barcelona, Santorini, St. Petersburg, Sydney, and Singapore versus adventuresome expedition/exploration cruises that visit such unusual places as the Galapagos, the Amazon, Greenland, the Arctic, and Antarctica?  
• Do you want to stop in many ports or do you prefer staying onboard and enjoying more sea days?  
• Are you environmentally sensitive and prefer eco-friendly ships and cruise lines that are living their values with new hybrid electric cruise ships and leaving minimal carbon footprints in the places they visit?  
• Do you like traditional “fly and flop” vacations, or do you prefer something different and more challenging, such as adrenaline-filled learning and adventure vacations – grab a deck chair and chill out with an umbrella drink, or jump in a zodiac with a fancy camera in search of whales, polar bears, and penguins?  
• Each cruise line and cruise ship has its own particular character, personality, and culture. The larger ships offer the most options, from multiple restaurants and shops to entertainment venues and family-friendly activities. The Caribbean is the center for relatively inexpensive cruises – many are half the cost of comparable cruises in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Asia.

If you’re interested in testing your cruise personality related to identifying the right cruise for you, take these introspective and fun quizzes/tests:

• What type of cruise is right for you?
• The Cruising Personality Test: What sort of cruiser are you?

In fact, 60-69 is the medium age of today’s cruisers. Unlike younger cruisers, who take relatively short (3-7 days) and inexpensive ($100-200 per day) trips to popular Caribbean and European destinations, older cruisers tend to prefer longer itineraries, exotic locations, transatlantic crossings, around-the-world cruises, and luxury cruises that last beyond 10 days and cost $400 to $1,000+ per day. They are the driving force behind the steady growth in luxury cruise ships and yachts to exotic locations. Being relatively happy repeat cruisers, they like to take several cruises – sometimes 4 each year — on their always expanding bucket list. A happy life in one’s 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s means cruising on one’s favorite cruise line (Crystal, Regent, Seabourn, Silversea, Viking) and perhaps booking a luxury yacht offered by Crystal, Seabourn, Scenic, Viking, Ponant, Emerald, or Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Don’t forget the iconic ocean liner, Cunard’s senior-favored Queen Mary 2 , that regularly does 7-night New York City-to-London “crossings.” Much loved by seniors, Queen Mary 2 includes dressy Gala evenings, Big Band performances, ballroom dancing, jazz ensembles, classical recitals . . . and barking dog kennels! 

Most cruise lines have very specific demographics and price points in mind when they market their ships, itineraries, and activities. Cruise lines want to capture the senior market since this is a very travel- and cruise-friendly audience with significant disposable incomes, sophisticated tastes, and a desire to take multiple trips each year. Seniors also are a very critical group when it comes to costs/value, service, food, cabins, entertainment, shore excursions, cleanliness, and accessibility. However, to fully capture this market, cruise lines must make special accommodations for seniors with disabilities, health issues, dietary needs as well as those interested in fine dining, bingo, arts and crafts, enrichment programs, and other senior-oriented entertainment. Accordingly, many cruise lines have in-house senior specialists and special senior programs focused on this lucrative market.

In general, the least expensive “fly and flop” cruises focus on the Caribbean, involve the largest ships on shorter itineraries (3-10 days), include many onboard adrenaline-pumping activities (any seniors want to tackle the 40-foot rocking climbing wall, anxious to go ziplining, hop on a rollercoaster, jump onto a fast-moving water slide, or try competing in a belly flopping contest?), and appeal to families and younger people. Some are very family-friendly (Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises) with many activities geared towards children and multi-generational travelers. Some also carve out adults-only enclaves (private sun deck, pools, restaurants, bars, fitness centers, personal butlers, free drinks) on separate decks for VIPs and those not interested in mixing with the multigenerational crowds (for example, Carnival’s “Serenity Adult-Only Retreat”; Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Posh Beach Club, Vibe, Spice H2o, and The Haven”; Princess Cruises’ “The Sanctuary”; MSC Cruises’ “Top Deck Solarium” and “Yacht Club”; Disney Cruises’ “Satellite Sun Deck”; Royal  Caribbean’s “The Solarium”). Others are adults-only cruises (Saga, Virgin Voyages, Viking Cruises, Fred Olson, P&O Cruises, Emerald Waterways, Scenic River Cruises). And still others are very adult-focused with specific age restrictions – no babies or very young kids (Silversea, Seabourn, and Windstar).

On the other hand, the more adults-only and senior-oriented cruise lines represent smaller and higher-end cruise lines (with the exception of a few budget-oriented ships for seniors), tend to offer longer cruises (7-30 nights) and go to more international waters and exotic places. The luxury cruise industry is definitely oriented toward adults and seniors – the important cruise demographic with time, money, and motivation to engage in repeat high-end cruising. 

The following ocean cruise lines have developed reputations for being adult- and senior-oriented with many activities and programs designed specifically for seniors:

• Holland America

Ponant/Paul Gauguin

• Viking Cruises

Virgin Voyages

Both Cunard and Crystal also provide “Gentlemen Hosts” or “Ambassadors” to dance with guests in search of competent dance partners, many of whom are older single women. Silversea and Holland America also offer this dance service but only on select cruises.

These large and less luxurious cruise lines also are known for their senior-friendly components, themes, and activities:

• Carnival Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Princess Cruises  
• Royal Caribbean Cruises

The following river cruise lines have similar good reputations with senior cruisers:

• Abercrombie and Kent
• AmaWaterways
• American Cruise Lines (American and Canadian rivers and ocean coasts)
• American Queen Steamboat Company (American rivers)
• Avalon Waterways
• Crystal River Cruises
• Viking River Cruises
• Vodohod Cruise and Travel (Russian rivers)
• Paris to Normandy, France (Viking)
• Across Africa – Chobe River (AmaWaterways); South Africa & Namibia (Norwegian)
• Holland & Belgium (Tulip & Windmill River Cruise – Uniworld, Crystal)
• Alsace, France (barge)
• Trans-Atlantic crossing (Cunard’s ocean liner Queen Mary 2)
• Northern Europe (Viking)
• Monaco (Windstar, Oceania)
• Cyclades Islands (Greece – Silversea, Celebrity)
• South Pacific (Regent) – romantic
• Southeast Asia (Princess, Seabourn)
• Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka (Ponant, Oceania, Norwegian, Celebrity)
• Antarctica, South Georgia, Falkland Islands (Viking, Celebrity, Lindblad, Quark)
• Around-the-world cruise
• Panama Canal (Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian)
• New York to Montreal in the fall (Oceania, Silversea)
• America’s heartland – Deep South, Mississippi (American Cruise Lines)

Other lists by CruiseCritic.com include these 10 bucket list cruises:

• Australia Circumnavigation
• Panama Canal
• South Pacific
• Norwegian Fjords
• World Cruise
• Company – Royal Caribbean
• Year – 2018
• Passenger Capacity – 5,400
• Year – 2016
• Year – 2010
• Year – 2021
• Company – Carnival Cruise Line
• Passenger Capacity – 5,200
• Company – P&O Cruises
• Year – 2020
• Company – AIDA Cruises
• Company – Costa Cruises
• Year – 2019
• Passenger Capacity – 5,224
• Company – MSA Cruises
• Passenger Capacity – 4,888
• Company – MSC
• Passenger Capacity – 4,580
• Passenger Capacity – 4,100
• Year – 2022
• Passenger Capacity – 5,448
• Company – Genting Cruise Lines/Dream Cruises
• Passenger Capacity – 4,700
• Company – MSC Cruises
• Company – Royan Caribbean
• Year – 2023
• Passenger Capacity – 5,600

When choosing a cruise, it’s important to know your ship. While many older ships are fine, we prefer a bias toward the new — select the newest ships (built after 2016) that are more environmentally-friendly (LNG and hybrid electric powered) and technologically advanced. Unfortunately, many of the newest ships are also the huge 5,000+ passenger ships being launched by Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Costa, P&O, and Dream Cruises which appeal to a younger demographic. A ship that’s 3-5 years old and has yet to be refitted/refurbished may show lots of wear and tear – worn, dated, and a problematic performer. If you book a ship that has just been refitted/refurbished at 5 years, you may feel you’re boarding a new ship.

The small and newer ships especially appeal to seniors who become dedicated repeat cruisers with the same brand cruise line. You’ll find many well-traveled seniors, for example, who do most of their cruising on Seabourn, Regent, Silversea, and Crystal; some regularly switch back and forth between these four luxury lines. For river cruises, it’s usually Tauck, Uniworld, Crystal, Scenic, and Viking that get repeat attention. These smaller ships are disproportionately luxury ships associated with several ocean and river cruise lines. Some also are small luxury expedition ships and yachts that carry fewer than 200 passengers. 

Senior cruisers tend to favor the following cruise lines. Please note the newest additions to their fleets – ships that many seniors may be interested in exploring: 

OCEAN CRUISE SHIPS

American Queen Steamboat Company (Victory Cruise Line) – all expedition ships owned and chartered by SunStone Ships, Inc.

• Ocean Discoverer (2023) 
• Ocean Albatros (2022)
• Ocean Odyssey (2022)
• Silvia Earle (2021)
• Ocean Explorer (2021)
• Ocean Victory (2021) 
• Ocean Victory (2021)
• Greg Mortimer (2019)

Atlas Ocean Voyages (new untested yacht line launched in 2021)

• World Discoverer (2023)
• World Adventurer (2023)
• World Seeker (2022)
• Work Traveller (2022)
• World Navigator (2021)

Crystal Cruises (Luxury Yacht)

• Endeavour (2021)

Emerald Cruises (Luxury Yacht)

• Azzurra (2020)

Hapag-Lloyd (Expedition)

• Hanseatic Nature (2021)
• Hanseatic Inspiration (2021)
• Hanseatic Spirit (2021)

Hurtigruten (Expedition)

• MS Fridtjof Hansen (2020)
• MS Roald Amundsen (2019)

Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic

• National Geographic  Endurance (2021)
• National Geographic Resolution (2021)
• National Geographic Venture (2018)
• National Geographic Quest (2017)

Norwegian Yacht Voyages

• NYV Caroline (2023)
• Unnamed (two 230-passenger hybrid ships in Ponant’s Explorer Class, 2022)
• Le Commandant Charcot (2021)
• 5 Explorer Class (9,900 GT) Ships (2018-2020) – used by Abercrombie & Kent
• Le Lyrial (2015)

Regent Seven Seas

• Seven Seas Splendor (2020)
• Seven Seas Explorer (2016)

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

• Unnamed (2023)
• Unnamed (2022)
• Evrima (2021)
• Saga Cruises
• Spirit of Adventure (2021)
• Spirit of Discovery (2019)

Scenic (Luxury Yacht)

Scenic Eclipse 2 (2022)

• Scenic Eclipse (2019)
• Sea Cloud Spirit (2021)
• Seabourn Venture (2021)
• Seabourn Ovation (2018)
• Seabourn Encore (2016)
• Silver Dawn (2021)
• Silver Origin (2020)
• Silver Moon (2020)
• Silver Muse (2017)

Viking (Ocean)

• Viking Neptune (2022)
• Viking Mars (2022)
• Viking Venus (2021)
• Viking Jupiter (2019)
• Viking Orion (2018)
• Viking Sun (2017)
• Viking Sky (2017)
• Resilient Lady (2022)
• Valiant Lady (2021)
• Scarlet Lady (2020)

RIVER CRUISE SHIPS

• Amadeus Cara (2021)
• Amadeus Star (2019)
• Amadeus Queen (2018)
• Amadeus Provence (2017)
• AmaSiena (2021)
• AmaLucia (2021)
• AmaDoura (2019)
• AmaMagno (2019)
• AmaLea (2018)
• American Cruise Lines
• American Melody (2021)
• American Jazz (2020)
• American Harmony (2019)
• American Song (2018)
• American Queen Steamboat Company
• American Duchess (2017) 
• Avalon View (2021)
• Avalon Envision (2019)
• Avalon Saigon (2017)

Croisi Europe

• Zimbabwean Dream (2020)
• MS Amalia Dream (2019)
• MS Elbe Rodrigues (2018)

Crystal River Cruises  

• Crystal Ravel (2018)
• Crystal Debussy (2018)
• Crystal Bach (2017)
• Crystal Mahler (2017)
• Crystal Mozart (1987/2016)

Ecoventura (Relais & Chateaux Expedition Collection)

• Evolve (2021)
• Theory (2019)
• Emerald Waterways
• Emerald Luna (2021)
• Emerald Harmony (2019)
• Riviera River Cruises
• MS Geoffrey Chaucer (2020)
• MS George Eliot (2019)
• MS Douro Splendour (2018)
• MS William Wordsworth (2018)
• MS Robert Burns (2018)
• Spirit of the Danube (2022)
• Spirit of the Rhine (2021)
• Scenic Luxury and Cruise Tours
• Scenic Amber (2016)
• Scenic Azure (2016)
• Scenic Spirit (2016)
• Scenic Aura (2016)
• Adorinha (2021)
• S.S. Sao Gabriel (2021)
• Mekong Jewel (2020)
• S.S. Joie De Vivre (2017)
• Viking Mississippi (2022)
• Viking Saigon (2021)
• Viking Skaga (2020)
• Viking Osiris (2020)
• Viking Gersemi (2020)
• Viking Fjorgyn (2020)
• Viking Hervor (2020)
• Viking Kari (2020)
• Viking Einar (2019)
• Viking Helgrim (2019)
• Viking Vali (2019)
• Viking Ullur (2019)
• Viking Tir (2019)

According to Expedition Cruise Specialists and several other expedition cruise experts, today’s most popular expedition destinations are:

• The Galapagos Islands
• The Arctic (North Pole)
• Iceland/Greenland/Northern Lights
• Northwest Passage (Canada)
• Kimberley Coast (Australia)
• Papua New Guinea
• Indonesia Archipelago
• Kiribati’s Southern Line Islands

Other popular destinations include:

• British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest
• Costa Rica and Panama
• Baja California/Sea of Cortez
• South Pacific (Australia, New Zealand, Melanesia, Micronesia)
• Russian Far East
• Canadian Arctic
• French Polynesia
• Mekong River and Delta (Vietnam/Cambodia)

Today’s best expedition and exploration cruises are offered by more than a dozen companies. For a quick overview of each company and an inside view of their operations, be sure to visit their video libraries, which appear on their websites and on their YouTube channels. Start with these 13:

• Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic . (11 ocean ships, 2 river boats). Operates in Costa Rica, Panama, Alaska, Amazon, Arctic, Antarctica, Russian Far East, Galapagos, Patagonia, Vietnam/Cambodia, Pacific Northwest, South Pacific/French Polynesia, and elsewhere. Be sure to visit Lindbald’s wonderful travel video library , which includes more than 250 videos on Lindbald expedition cruise experiences around the world.
• UnCruise Adventures . (9 ships, 22-86 guests each). Operates in Alaska, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Pacific Northwest, Galapagos, Hawaiian Islands, Sea of Cortez, Costa Rica, and Panama. Check out their video library of expedition cruises on YouTube.
• Quark Expeditions . (6 small expedition ships; 2 icebreakers, each carrying fewer than 200 passengers). A leader in polar adventures with major operations in Antarctica and the Arctic (North Pole). You can explore their operation by viewing their extensive video library , which is also available on their YouTube channel.
• Hurtigruten . (15 small ships including 2 new hybrid-powered ships). Operates in Norway, Antarctica, Alaska, Greenland, Iceland, Northwest Passage, and elsewhere. U.S. operations headquartered in Seattle. Check out their extensive video library , which appears on their YouTube channel. For an overview of the world’s first hybrid cruise ship and Hurtigruten’s revolutionary new hydro-powered ships, see their ship video on sustainability . 
• Aurora Expeditions . (2 ships, 138 passengers). Primarily operates in Antarctica, the Arctic, Costa Rica, Panama, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, Iceland, Patagonia, Russia, Kimberley, and Indonesia. View Aurora’s video library by visiting their YouTube channel.
• Windstar Cruises . ( Primarily a leisure cruise line with small ships, including some large motorized sailing ships, which also offers a few expedition cruises). Operates expedition cruises in Costa Rica, Panama, Tahiti, Indonesia, and Australia. While Windstar does not maintain a video library, you can find a few Windstar videos on YouTube.
• Variety Cruises . (8 ships and 3 yachts). Covers Costa Rica, Panama, Middle East, Black Sea South Pacific, West Africa, Cape Verde, Seychelles, Red Sea, and more. Check out their video library on YouTube.
• G Adventures . A budget expedition cruise and travel company especially popular with young travelers. Primarily operates in Antarctica, the Arctic, and Norway.  You can review their video library on YouTube but somewhat difficult to locate their cruise videos.
• Zegrahm Expeditions . (13 chartered ships – 24 to 172 guests). Operates in all 7 continents. Check out their video library on YouTube. 
• StarClippers . The tall sailing ship company with 3 large ships under sail and power. Primarily operates in Thailand, Indonesia, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. View their tall ship video on YouTube. You can search for several other Star Clippers videos on YouTube.
• Adventure Canada . (2 ships, including a 3-masted motorsailer). Operates in the Arctic, Antarctica, Costa Rica, Panama, Greenland, Iceland, Pacific West, Canadian Coast. Includes a limited video library on YouTube.
• Celebrity Cruises . (2 ships dedicated to Galapagos operations – Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Flora). Operates in all 7 continents, but only does expedition cruises to the Galapagos. Its 3,000 passenger/crew Celebrity Infinity does visit Antarctica three times a year during January and February. Several other large Celebrity ships visit Alaska. Be sure to check out Celebrity’s video of their pioneering Galapagos cruises and Alaskan cruises .
• American Cruise Lines . (5 cruise ships mainly designed for rivers and coastal areas). Columbia and Snake River, Alaska, Puget Sound, Mississippi River, and elsewhere. Be sure to review ACL’s video library that features their unique cruises.

Being “best” in this category has little to do with luxury and comfort. “Best” is defined in other ways and relates to special experiences. The best companies have excellent reputations for their destinations, adventures, educational programs, safety records, food, and onboard specialists and professionals familiar with exploring challenging but interesting places.  

Today’s most popular luxury yachts, which carry from 100 to 200 passengers and may include helicopters and submarines, are operated by these high-end cruise companies:

• World Traveller (2022)

Crystal Cruises

• Crystal Endeavour (2021)
• Crystal Esprit (1989)

Emerald Cruises  

Sea Cloud (3-masted fully-rigged sailing ship)

SeaDream Yacht Club

• SeaDream II (1985)
• SeaDream I (1984)

For more information on luxury yachts, please see our companion article entitled “Top Expedition and Luxury Yacht Cruises.”  

Seniors represent the major demographic group for river cruise companies. According to Tourpia.com , the most popular river cruises around the world include these top 10 rivers:    

• River Nile Cruise
• Amazon River Cruise
• Yangtze River Cruise
• Danube River Cruise
• Mekong River Cruise
• Rhine River Cruise
• Volga River Cruise
• Kerala Backwaters Cruise
• Mississippi River Cruise
• Douro Cruise (Portugal)

Some of the most popular exotic river cruise destinations include:

• Amazon River
• Brahmaputra River (NE India)
• Chobe River (Botswana)
• Ganges River (India)
• Irrawaddy River (Myanmar)
• Mekong River (Vietnam & Cambodia)
• Nile River (Egypt)
• Yangtze River (China)

The best river cruise companies were identified earlier in the discussion about new ships (2017-2023) being added to these river cruise fleets:

• CroisiEurope
• Tauck River Cruising
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

The budget-end of river cruising includes these six cruise lines:

• Emerald Waterways (budget-end of Scenic Luxury and Cruise Tours)
• Gate 1 Travel
• Grand Circle Cruise Lines
• Vantage Deluxe World Travel

At the luxury-end of river cruising, these seven river cruise companies are the leaders in this industry; each has a loyal following of repeat cruisers:

• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection  
• Abercrombie & Kent (charters Ponant cruise ships)

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Middle East latest: Worshippers in Tehran chant 'death to Israel' after strike; man 'carrying explosives' arrested at Iranian consulate in Paris

Worshippers in Tehran gather at a demonstration just hours after an apparent Israeli strike in Iran. Elsewhere, a man is arrested at the Iranian consulate in Paris after claiming to be carrying explosives.

Friday 19 April 2024 16:40, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• What we know so far about Israel's apparent attack on Iran
• Iran has 'no plan for immediate retaliation'
• Blinken refuses to talk about Israel's reported attack
• Man arrested at Iranian consulate in Paris
• Worshippers in Tehran chant 'death to Israel'
• Analysis:  This strike has escalation written all over it
• Analysis: Iran isn't biggest threat to the coalition right now
• Live reporting by Andy Hayes and Emily Mee and, earlier, Jess Sharp

The strongest of Iran's proxies - the Hezbollah militia in Lebanon - has been almost dismissive in its response to the overnight events in Isfahan.

In the first public statement, the deputy secretary general of Hezbollah Sheikh Naim Qassem seemed to express disdain at what they appear to be judging as Israel's low-level response.

"They are afraid," he said, adding: "And do not have a clear plan."

If that is the agreed line, then it would seem to be drawing a line under the most recent worrying flare-up.

We've spent the past week talking to Hezbollah; to those closest to Hezbollah; to those in Lebanese authority and to military personnel - and they all stated clearly and unequivocally how the militant group did not want war with Israel.

"The ball is in Israel's court," said one senior political figure.

Read more from our special correspondent Alex Crawford below...

By Alex Rossi , international correspondent in Tel Aviv

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been throughout his career a generally cautious politician, either deferring decisions or taking the least incendiary options.

There's a school of thought in Israel that he had no choice but to act after the Iranian barrage of missiles and drones.

To not do anything would have flown in the face of decades of Israeli security policy.

How then to deal with the Iranian strike and balance the different international and domestic pressures? Certainly, allies like the US were suggesting that after the successful interceptions and defence of the nation, he should "take the win".

But members on the far right of his right-wing coalition were urging him to go "berserk" - the logic being that only a forceful overreaction would restore Israel's deterrence in the region.

It is why his radical national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, has labeled the Israeli response as "lame" on social media.

Strong words yes, but he is unlikely to cause a major headache on the Iranian question. Mr Netanyahu's far-right coalition members are, though, much more likely to be very demanding when it comes to Gaza.

There the Israeli prime minister could find himself being given red lines when it comes to who rules the strip when the fighting stops.

Mr Netanyahu may also be compelled into taking action in the southern city of Rafah. The US and others have strongly objected to such an operation because it would make the humanitarian situation even more dire.

The bottom line is when it comes to making things difficult it will be the Palestinian question, if anything, not Iran that sinks the coalition and puts Mr Netanyahu in a tight spot.

Iran appears to be "downplaying" the apparent Israeli attack on its own soil, a journalist who has written about the country told Sky News.

Tara Kangarlou, author of The Heartbeat of Iran, said she had spoken to a former government official in Iran on Friday and asked him whether he thought Tehran would respond.

He apparently replied that Iran cannot afford an all-out war because it "knows the United States will support Israel and back this conflict".

Judging by Iran's domestic news services, Ms Kangarlou said the regime was "sort of downplaying" Israel's alleged actions.

She added: "Today is Friday and usually if the regime wants to announce something, the Friday prayers are the time to do so. 

"And we haven't heard from the supreme leader. We haven't really heard from the president. 

"So no one is coming out to condemn this attack and say 'we are going to retaliate against Israel'. 

"And that tells us that Iran wants to sit this one out, at least based on what we're seeing and what I've heard from former officials in Iran, because they can't afford an all-out war."

The Iranian president has claimed Tehran's attack on Israel is a "sign of power". 

Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel last weekend, but little damage was caused. 

Speaking to a crowd in the city of Damghan, President Ebrahim Raisi said the attack showed the "steely determination of our nation". 

The US has imposed sanctions on two entities that it said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank. 

One of the entities, Mount Hebron Fund, launched an online fundraising campaign that raised $140,000 for settler Yinon Levi. 

Levi had led a group of settlers that assaulted Palestinian and Bedouin civilians, burned their fields and destroyed their property.

The second entity, Shlom Asiraich, raised $31,000 on a crowdfunding website for David Chai Chasdai. 

The United States says Chasdai initiated and led a riot that included setting vehicles and buildings on fire and causing damage to property in Huwara, resulting in the death of a Palestinian civilian.

Washington previously sanctioned five settlers and two unauthorised outposts in the West Bank in two rounds of sanctions. 

"Such acts by these organisations undermine the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank. We will continue to use our tools to hold those responsible accountable," deputy secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo said. 

Things appear to be business as usual for many Iranians in Isfahan, where Israel's drone attack targeted a major military base. 

Here we can see members of the public shopping at Isfahan Bazaar and relaxing near the Zayandeh Rud River and Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

Israel has reminded Iran that its "highly sensitive facilities" are "within reach of the long Israeli arm", a senior diplomat has said.

The Israeli military have "left their calling card", Sir Richard Dalton added.

But the UK's former ambassador to Iran and Libya also told Sky News he wanted to "utter a word of caution".

He commented: "Is it really over? Israel might have something else that it wants to do. 

"And there will be disappointment amongst the more hawkish in Israel that this slap on the wrist of Iran was not more serious."

However, Sir Richard said he thought Israel had "shown much better judgement on this occasion than it did in launching this cycle of retaliation on the 1st of April with its reckless and unlawful attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus".

Senior Iranian military commanders were killed in that strike - which was allegedly carried out by Israel.

Iran has said it launched missiles and drones towards Israel on Saturday in response to Israel's alleged actions in the Syrian capital.

Regarding the apparent Israeli strike in Iran, Sir Richard said he hopes it was a "good omen for future relationships between Israel and its United States partner, that while emphasising the independence of their decision making, nevertheless, the Israeli war cabinet decided to heed the advice not to undertake significant escalation".

A short while ago, we brought you news of a man arrested in Paris who was threatening to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate. 

Police searches have now found he was not carrying explosives. 

A police source told Reuters news agency the man was seen at about 11am local time entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest. 

The area was cordoned off, and the man was arrested after leaving the consulate.

French TV channel BFM said the man was carrying replica grenades. 

A police source said the same man was suspected of attempted arson near the Iranian consulate in an incident last September.

Le Parisien newspaper said on its website that, according to several witnesses, the man had dragged flags on the floor of the consulate and said he wanted to avenge the death of his brother.

It is unclear whether the incident is linked to the current tensions between Iran and Israel. 

The US was given a last-minute warning from Israel about the drone attack against Iran, according to Italy's foreign minister.

Although the US has been tight-lipped over the matter, Italy's Antonio Tajani said American officials briefed G7 ministers in a closed-door session. 

"There was no sharing of the attack by the US," he said.

"It was mere information."

Mr Tajani, who was chairing the meeting, said the US provided the information at a session this morning that was changed at the last minute to address the suspected attack. 

"There is a group of Italians who live in the city where the drones arrived and everyone is okay, they say that life has restarted regularly," he added.

Worshippers in Tehran have gathered at a demonstration just hours after an apparent Israeli strike in Iran. 

People chanted "death to Israel", "death to America" and "death to Zionists", while waving Iranian and Palestinian flags. 

One man said: "They (Israelis) didn't do anything special, based off what I heard from news agencies.

"I don't think they have the courage to do anything after Iran's successful strike."

Israel has not commented on this morning's attack but sources have told our US partner NBC News that it was behind the strike. 

It was launched in retaliation to Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel last weekend, which came after two of its generals were killed in a strike on its embassy in Syria on 1 April. 

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