The fun and carefree vacation experience of cruising is loved by many, however, seniors often find that they’re looking for something a little bit different out of their voyages. Cruises for seniors tend to be quieter, less crowded more engaging for their demographic, with a wide variety of things to do.
Those who are looking into cruising as a senior tend to 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 more busy atmosphere. By prioritizing a cruise line that focuses on adult travelers, you'll find a ship more likely to offer 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, as 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. Below, we break down and detail the 10 best cruises for seniors:
1. Holland America Cruise Line
Best for:
- Luxury travelers
- Seniors looking for quieter cruises
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
Best for:
- Seniors who want to travel alongside other seniors
- Seniors who want to weave cultural excursions into their trips
Many seniors consider 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
Best for:
- Seniors who prefer a more refined, sophisticated travel experience
- Seniors who prefer quieter travel
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
Best for:
- Luxury travelers
- Seniors who want to travel to far-off destinations
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
Best for:
- Seniors looking for a more intimate cruising experience
- Luxury travelers interested in bespoke itineraries
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
Best for:
- Luxury travelers
- Seniors who want to travel worldwide
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
Best for:
- Seniors with an active lifestyle
- Seniors who want to mix and mingle with other travelers
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
Best for:
- Seniors who prefer smaller cruise ships
- Luxury travelers who prioritize culinary experiences
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.
9. Celebrity Cruise Line
Best for:
- Budget-friendly travelers
- Seniors who want to travel with their children and grandchildren
Considered by many to be one of the best cruise lines for seniors, Celebrity Cruise Line offers a wide range of tour itineraries and ships for travelers to choose from. While some Celebrity cruises appeal to travelers of all ages, seniors will find that they are in good company on their ships.
From popular Caribbean itineraries to cruises that travel as far away as Barcelona and Rome, you can truly travel the globe on the Celebrity Cruise Line. Their itineraries are known for being immersive and inviting, giving you an opportunity to explore the ports of call that are included with your cruise. While on board the ship, you will have access to world-class amenities, including Broadway-style shows, fine dining restaurants and signature spa treatments.
10. Princess Cruise Line
Best for:
- Luxury travelers
- Seniors with an active lifestyle
- Seniors who want to travel with people of all ages
Established more than 70 years ago, Princess Cruise Line is one of the oldest and most reliable cruise lines in the industry. To this day, this cruise line is committed to excellence, and it is known for its ability to provide each traveler with personalized service. As one of the most popular cruise lines for seniors, Princess Cruise Line offers cruises to destinations around the world, with its Hawaiian and Alaskan cruises being some of its most beloved cruises.
Seniors who want to enjoy the finer things appreciate the attention to detail that is put into each Princess Cruise Line experience. With one of the newest fleets of ships available, Princess Cruise Line is committed to blending the latest technology into the cruising experience. In addition to being able to relax in style and streamline their vacation experience, seniors also have access to endless entertainment on board, including shows, interactive activities and more. Their heated pools are particularly inviting, especially after a long day exploring the port.
Multi-generational travel is becoming particularly popular, especially among retirees who want to treat their extended families to an incredible adventure. Seniors who are booking multi-generational trips often find that Princess Cruise Line is an ideal option, because there are family-friendly amenities as well as adult-only experiences on board, ensuring that everyone can enjoy special moments during their vacation.
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