If you want to see the world, a sea voyage is a great way to really discover new places. While other forms of travel limit you to one or two cities per trip, cruising allows you to visit multiple different locations – and have a great time moving from place to place. But as you age, the amenities you seek in a cruise ship can change. While previously you may have prioritized nightlife or children’s activities, you may now prefer a quieter scene with an emphasis on more relaxing programming, or one full of daytime activities and engaging evening entertainment. Read on to see what the best cruises are if you’re over 60, no matter what you’re looking for, according to travel experts. Good Trip!
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Think of Silversea as the sexy and elegant older sibling of your traditional mega-cruise. The company offers all-inclusive luxury accommodations that include gourmet dining and alcoholic beverages. “The atmosphere is perfect for socializing, eating and dancing,” he says David AdlerFounder and CEO of The Travel Secret.
He notes that guests over 60 will particularly enjoy the stylish accommodations and personal butler service (there’s an almost one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio). The fleet of 10 ships visits more than 900 destinations, including the Mediterranean and Alaska, the Galapagos Islands and Australia. Each liner offers a spa, fitness classes and a range of restaurants. The programming is geared towards adults, so you don’t have to worry about the little ones running around.
One of the most well-known cruise lines in the US is also an incredible option for the elderly. “People over 50 often want excitement,” she says Kyle Kroeger, founder of travel guide website ViaTravelers. “That’s why I’m suggesting one of the superships like Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas.” Kroeger notes that these megaships have some additional benefits. For one, their size helps make movement less noticeable, which reduces seasickness. But older guests are likely to be more drawn to the activities on offer.
Aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise, you can do everything from rock climbing and miniature golf to ice skating and a day at the spa. The ship isn’t just for adults – and offers plenty of activities for youngsters – but there are plenty of adult-only programs both on the ship and on shore.
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Miami-based Celebrity Cruises caters to the over-60s with a more sedate experience. “It delivers the excitement of typical mega-cruises but adds a touch of luxury and a lot of relaxation,” he says Marcello de Lio, co-founder of High Seas Cruising. “Unlike most mainstream mega-cruises, Celebrity’s cruise lines lack an active nightlife and party atmosphere.”
Instead, these liners feature robust casinos, spas, and shopping malls. There are also shows, live music and activities for the little ones (if the grandkids come along). And should you fancy a nightcap or two, there are plenty of low-key evening parties and events to attend.
This British cruise line – one of the oldest in the world – is all about luxury. In fact, Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II were both on board. “Cunard is well respected for its traditional approach to cruising and has the honor of operating the last remaining ocean liner, the Queen Mary 2,” says De Lio.
The daily program includes lectures, films, afternoon tea and croquet. De Lio notes that the cruise line also has one of the largest libraries at sea. In the evenings, expect stylish events such as formal events with black tie, ballroom dancing and live music.
With outstanding amenities and destinations, Viking Cruises tops our list as the best cruise for over 60s. The Switzerland-based company operates river, ocean and expedition cruises – so if you decide it’s a favorite, you can sail pretty much anywhere.
De Lio notes that Viking places a high value on education in its shore excursions and onboard activities. The destinations are also top notch. For example, you can travel to Budapest, Hungary, Vienna, Austria, and Regensburg, Germany on a romantic Danube cruise. Or explore North America with an expedition cruise that travels the Great Lakes and Canada.
Viking has received numerous awards for its incredible offering, including #1 for river cruises and ocean cruises in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2021 Reader’s Choice Awards. It was also recognized in Travel + Leisureis 2021 World Best Awards.
In other words, it’s time to stop reading and start booking.
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