From relaxing in the Caribbean to exploring the rivers of Europe, these are the best cruises for travelers over 60.
Cruise Benefits for Seniors
Cruises offer advantages for travelers of all ages, but for seniors, conveniences like being able to visit many destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking, arranging flights, transfers, checking in and out of hotels, finding restaurants, and booking excursions are especially important. Moreover, for seniors with limited mobility, those cruise features 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 seniors are as active and capable as 25-year-olds, whereas others may have limitations that prevent long walks or managing heavy luggage. Some are curious and wish to see every detail on an itinerary; others are content to relax and enjoy the scenery. Many enjoy learning new things or hearing from expert lecturers, while others prefer nightlife and live shows. Additionally, limited budgets are often a consideration among seniors with fixed incomes, while some can indulge in more luxurious options.
There are cruises that cater to every need. In fact, most large ships offer a wealth of activities so that couples or groups of friends can select the experiences they enjoy most and then come together for dinner or cocktails at the end of the day. Solo travelers also have plentiful opportunities to meet others during meals, excursions, or onboard activities. Cruise companies are increasingly attentive to amenities that enhance travel convenience and appeal for seniors, especially those with special needs. Notably, travelers as young as 50 may be eligible for special discounts on cruises, so it’s always a good time 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, river cruising is ideal for seniors. Ports are typically close to cities, sailing is smooth, and ships are smaller with usually no more than 200 passengers. Furthermore, most shore excursions offer varying levels of walking intensity. For those who prefer to stay onboard, comfortable lounges, outdoor seating, and stateroom balconies provide stunning views.
The most popular European rivers include the Rhine and Danube, featuring picturesque towns to visit. Other notable rivers include the Douro, Seine, Rhone, Mekong in Vietnam, Nile in Egypt, and the Volga in Russia. Cruises vary in duration from a week up to three weeks when multiple rivers are included. Specialty river cruises may focus on topics such as food, wine, or Christmas markets.
River Cruise Lines
Viking River Cruises is an adults-only option spanning several rivers. Sail from Vienna to Bucharest along the Danube, explore the Nile with Egyptologists, or traverse Holland during tulip season. Catering to retirees, most passengers are over 60, making it a perfect choice for well-traveled cruisers seeking adventure. With excursions and onboard programming focused on education and culture, they provide ample opportunities for enriching experiences.
AmaWaterways primarily focuses on European cruises, with select sailings in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Their ship, AmaMagna, offers greater width compared to traditional river cruise ships, allowing for enhanced lounge space and diverse dining options. A broad array of shore excursions caters to various interests and abilities, making the experience truly inclusive.
Avalon Waterways has shorter river cruises lasting four to five days for those wanting to “test the waters.” Travelers can choose activities based on their interests, and the luxurious Panorama Suites provide stunning views with floor-to-ceiling windows.
American Cruise Lines operates within the United States, including the Mississippi, Ohio, Hudson, and Columbia rivers. They prioritize accessibility with elevator access and spacious public areas, allowing older passengers to enjoy local cuisine and educational experiences about the regions visited.
Ocean Cruises for Seniors
For ocean cruises, ships tend to be larger and trips are often longer, depending on the destination. Megaships can accommodate between 2,000 and 6,000 passengers, while mid-size vessels hold about 1,000 to 2,500. There are abundant dining options, entertainment, pools, and public areas available on larger ships. For seniors preferring to remain onboard, numerous activities and onboard amenities await, making the cruise itself a destination.
Many ocean-going ships provide accessible cabins, elevators, wheelchair-width doorways, and essential equipment for boarding smaller boats during shore excursions. Several cruise lines even have medical facilities and physicians available, which is advantageous for all passengers.
Oceangoing Cruise Lines
Holland America Line offers voyages to numerous destinations, including South America, Antarctica, Alaska, and the Caribbean. This line is especially favored by seniors, providing staterooms designed with mobility assistance features and accommodations for hearing-impaired passengers.
Seabourn Cruise Line travels globally, offering staterooms specifically designed for guests needing mobility assistance. They permit service animals and provide options for passengers with vision or hearing challenges, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Azamara provides great mid-sized ships traveling to numerous global locations. Their “Destination Immersion” experiences allow extended stays in port and immediate assistance for onboarding and excursions. Furthermore, they can arrange airport transportation ahead of time.
Silversea’s small luxury ships create an intimate atmosphere and typically anchor closer to port cities, enhancing convenience for disembarkation and onboard views. Dedicated butlers cater to your needs, allowing you to focus on relaxation, with a low single supplement available.
Princess Cruises is often regarded as among the best cruise lines for seniors, offering diverse options that prioritize accessibility. Their Alaskan cruises showcase stunning views and encounters with local wildlife, ensuring a memorable experience without leaving the ship.
Whether you select an ocean voyage or a river cruise, both represent some of the best ways for seniors to explore the world. From the scenic rivers of Europe to the azure waters of the Caribbean, cruises offer the convenience of resort-style travel without the need for a flight. Many cruise lines also emphasize accessibility and inclusivity, making them suitable for all ages.
