When searching for quality seniors’ cruises, you need to consider a few of the most important traits that make cruises the trip of a lifetime.
Those traits are the activities sponsored by the line as well as those available at each stop, the price of the trip and any excursions, the locations the cruise stops at, and the amenities available on deck. Each of these can take on many forms, pleasing all types of cruise novices and experts. Take a look below at the five best seniors’ cruises and what each of them has to offer.
1. Holland America’s 7-14 Day Alaskan Explorer
Alaska has been a popular choice for senior vacationers for many years, and this cruise option shows why. In either 7 or 14 days, enjoy the beautiful scenery of glaciers, bays, wildlife, forests, and snowcapped mountains. Enjoy ample time off water, exploring small towns and villages and learning about the history and culture of Alaskan life. This cruise leaves from Vancouver, British Columbia.
Activities
Cruising is about relaxing, and you can do that in style in the spa, salon, or thermal suite. You can even take a break in the hydro pool to soothe tired muscles, or get them massaged in a sea-view massaging room. For entertainment, head to the Culinary Arts Center, where chefs showcase different methods of preparing dishes. The showroom features dancing, singing, and humorous entertainment throughout the day. The ship also has a casino.
Price
Prices vary based on the time of year. The week-long trip has price ranges beginning at $800 per person, and the two week roundtrip begins at $1,400 per person.
Locations
The 7 day round-trip option takes you up to Glacier Bay National Park, while the 14 day option reaches all the way to Anchorage. The main sites include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway if staying for the week. If taking the two week roundtrip, look forward to the previous stops, as well as Anchorage, Homer, Kodiak Island, and Hubbard Glacier.
Amenities
Enjoy laundry and dry cleaning services, religious and holiday services, and beverage options that allow a one price per day expense. There is a fitness area on board, as well as multiple lounges, top-deck clubs, and quiet reading areas.
2. Celebrity Cruises’ 12 Night Scandinavia and Russia Cruise, MS Silhouette
For those who enjoy learning and engaging with multiple cultures and seeing iconic historical landmarks and buildings, this cruise is the perfect option. Let the Celebrity Silhouette take you from the Netherlands to Russia on this amazing 13 day cruise.
Activities
Celebrity Solstice cruises specialize in offering classes for those eager to learn new skills. Enjoy your time at sea by learning a variety of art and culinary lessons in the Art Studio. Eat at the always intriguing Qsine, or try a grilled dish at the Lawn Club Grill. And of course, at each port city there are many chances to take part in excursions or just make your own way around.
Price
The average cost per person for this cruise is roughly $1,800, not including taxes, fees, and any additional packages.
Locations
This cruise stops in Amsterdam, Berlin, Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Helsinki, Stockholm, and Copenhagen. Boarding and departure takes place in Amsterdam.
Amenities
The Canyon Ranch SpaClub specializes in keeping you relaxed and rejuvenated, while the onboard shopping plaza gives you the chance to find amazing new articles of clothing or jewelry. Celebrity offers an available option to stay at a 4-star hotel 3 nights before boarding, as well as many amazing shore excursions at port cities. There are available internet, beverage, and specialty dining packages.
3. Norwegian Cruise’s 8 Night Western Caribbean Cruise, MS Getaway
Enjoy the best of tropical weather, relaxing days at sea, and awesome sites in the Caribbean on this 9 day cruise. It stops at some of the best ports in the area, and makes sure you’re well taken care of in-between. Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its amazing shows, luxury dining and entertainment, and variety of onboard activities.
Activities
If in the mood for excellent music, head over to the jazz and blues club or the dueling pianos bar. You can also enjoy Broadway musicals like Legally Blonde or Wine Lovers, the Musical. The Illusionarium offers dining with professional magicians as entertainment, and Burn the Floor features world-class salsa dancers. There is even a comedy club on board.
Price
Packages begin at $1,100, not including taxes, fees, or onboard packages.
Locations
This cruise departs from Miama, FL. It ports at Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian’s Private Island), Ocho Rios, Georgetown, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.
Amenities
The Getaway offers 10 complimentary dining options, as well as pools, hot tubs, mini golf, and a fitness center. There is a spa, spa saltroom, casino, and aqua park. For those traveling solo, Norwegian offers a no-additional-fee single studio room.
4. Uniworld’s 8 Day Castles Along the Rhine River Cruise, S.S. Antoinette
Take this less traditional cruise and sightsee along the Rhine River in Western Europe. The cruise hits 4 different countries and provides breathtaking views of the countryside and ancient castles. The S.S. Antoinette is a smaller ship, carrying only 154 guests, and a great option for those seeking a quiet luxury getaway.
Activities
Featured excursions include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bicycle tours, canal tours, and wine tasting. While onboard, enjoy local entertainment, fine dining, and comfortable viewing parlors.
Price
This luxury cruise has options beginning at $3,300, which includes a riverview stateroom.
Locations
The Rhine River cruise hits The Netherlands, France, Germany, and Switzerland, Port cities include Amsterdam, Cologne, Rudesheim, Strasbourg, and Basel, with multiple other cities available to explore through excursions.
Amenities
This cruise has an unlimited beverages perk, including alcohol and mineral water. It is an All Inclusive cruise, featuring 6 days of excursions, guided tours, internet and Wi-Fi, all meals, and all gratuities onboard and on shore.
5. Royal Caribbean’s 8 Night Queensland Cruise, MS
Explore the Outback in the most relaxing way possible. This cruise ship features a design that makes it more wheelchair friendly. Stop in at some of Australia’s biggest and best known cities, as well as see the beautiful coast for yourself.
Activities
Enjoy free shows in the Main Theater, a casino, an outdoor movie screen, mini golf, and multiple bars, grills, and clubs. There is also a duty-free shopping area. Dining options include a Brazilian steakhouse, a Mexican restaurant, sushi, and Italian. On shore, you can do walking tours, take a day off on the beach, or go dolphin watching.
Price
Packages start at under $800, not including any taxes, fees, or available excursions.
Locations
Port cities include Sydney, Brisbane, Newcastle, and Airlie Beach.
Amenities
There is a complimentary Boardwalk Doghouse (featuring specialized hotdogs), Park Café, and Windjammer Café. There are 3 pools, including one that is adult-only, a spa, fitness center, and 3 whirlpools.