10 Best Cruise Destinations for Retirees

The cruise industry has long catered to seniors. As such, they have cruises especially geared toward providing comfort, relaxation, as well as immersive experiences. Here are the 10 Best Cruise destinations for retirees.

10. Aurora Expeditions

Relaxation and a personalized experience are guaranteed on this trip which sets a limit of a maximum of 132 passengers. Aurora Expeditions has a dedicated team of experts to take you on an adventure to the Arctic or Antarctica. Experiences include viewing whales, guided hikes through penguin colonies, birdwatching, kayaking among icebergs, and more.

9. Regent Seven Sea Cruises

If you’re seeking a stress-free experience in luxury, Regent Seven Sea Cruises delivers and prioritizes accessibility. Although you will see the occasional younger child traveling with grandparents, most passengers are 55 and up. Their packages include everything from airfare to shore excursions within the cost. Regent Seven Sea Cruises travels to over 450 destinations worldwide.

8. Silversea

If you love being waited on hand and foot, the elegant fleet of Silversea Cruises offers all-inclusive experiences. Pricing includes all-suite accommodations, gourmet dining, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and wines, excursions, and gratuities. SilverSea travels to over 900 destinations across seven continents. Active seniors might consider SilverSea’s expedition cruises, which include adventures such as hiking, kayaking, and more.

7. Windstar Cruises

For senior travelers seeking an intimate experience, there’s Windstar Cruises. Their small, luxury cruise ships accommodate 148-342 guests. Their crew-to-guest ratio is 1-to-1.5, ensuring lots of personalized service. Plus, Windstar can access ports inaccessible to larger ships, allowing travelers to explore less frequented destinations. Windstar’s all-suite yacht ships feature restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, elevators, and wheelchair-accessible suites.

6. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is considered one of the best cruise lines for seniors. They offer wheelchair accessibility on all ships, most destinations, and excursions. This allows seniors to fully participate in the remarkable experiences the cruise line offers. There are one-way, round-trip, and Cruisetours with extended land excursions. Princess Cruises features movies in onboard theaters, and world-class entertainment and musical performances.

5. Viking Cruises

Many take comfort in knowing that Viking Cruises only allows adult passengers aged 50 and up. The familial atmosphere of their cruises enhances the tranquil experience. Viking Cruises offers river, ocean, and expedition voyages. They also feature inclusive pricing that covers meals, activities, shore excursions, Internet access, beer and wine during lunch and dinner, and lectures.

4. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages does things differently with its “no kids, no buffets” policy, making travel ideal for seniors. Virgin offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, training sessions, and group classes. Relax in the wellness spa. There is abundant entertainment, from nightclubs and live performances to casinos. Enjoy 20 eateries at no additional cost, with no set dinner time or main dining room.

3. Oceania

Oceania offers some of the finest dining at sea, something foodie travelers will appreciate. You’ll find a diverse range of culinary offerings, from upscale to wellness-inspired dishes. Newer ships cater to the needs of the mobility-impaired and offer wheelchair-accessible rooms. Relax in the spa. Oceania offers an extensive range of destinations, including Asia, South America, Africa, and the Middle East.

2. Cunard

Seniors will appreciate the luxurious, classy, and traditional travel offered by Cunard. Enjoy daily afternoon tea in the Queen’s Room, where white-gloved waiters serve scones and finger sandwiches. Both fine dining with indulgent menus and casual options are available. Stay entertained around the clock through live music and theater performances, onboard activities, films, and lectures. Enjoy a themed gala evening.

1. Holland America Line

Holland America offers a premium experience tailored to seniors. Midsize ships carry roughly 2,000 passengers, while smaller vessels can reach ports inaccessible to larger ships. Holland America focuses on adult-oriented excursions like wine tastings and walks through ancient cities. Onboard, enjoy multiple music lounges, bingo, and more. There’s a diverse selection of dining options from around the world. Staterooms feature accessibility.