viking cruise from florida

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NEW! Viking World Cruise

• From £47,990
• 59 Guided Tours
• 29 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• Day 1 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, United States
• Day 2 Sail the Gulf of Mexico
• Day 3 Cozumel, Mexico
• Day 4-5 Sail the Caribbean Sea
• Day 6 Cartagena, Colombia
• Day 7 Colón, Panama
• Day 8 Scenic Sailing: Panama Canal
• Day 9 Sail the Pacific Ocean
• Day 10 Puntarenas (Puerto Caldera), Costa Rica
• Day 11-14 Sail the Pacific Ocean
• Day 15 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• Day 16-17 Sail the Pacific Ocean
• Day 18 Los Angeles, California, United States
• Day 19-23 Sail the Pacific Ocean
• Day 24 Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii, United States
• Day 25 Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hawaii, United States
• Day 26-30 Sail the Pacific Ocean
• Day 31 Bora Bora (Vaitape), French Polynesia
• Day 32 Moorea (Opunohu Bay), French Polynesia
• Day 33 Tahiti (Papeete), French Polynesia
• Day 34 Sail the South Pacific Ocean
• Day 35 Rarotonga (Avatiu), Cook Islands
• Day 36 Sail the South Pacific Ocean
• Day 37 Cross the International Dateline (West)
• Day 38-39 Sail the South Pacific Ocean
• Day 40 Bay of Islands (Waitangi), New Zealand
• Day 41 Auckland, New Zealand
• Day 42 Rotorua (Tauranga), New Zealand
• Day 43 Napier, New Zealand
• Day 44 Wellington, New Zealand
• Day 45-47 Sail the Tasman Sea
• Day 48 Sydney, Australia
• Day 49 Sydney, Australia
• Day 50 Sail the Australian Coast
• Day 51 Brisbane, Australia
• Day 52 Sail the Australian Coast
• Day 53 Whitsunday Islands, Australia
• Day 54 Cairns, Australia
• Day 55 Cairns, Australia
• Day 56 Sail the Coral Sea
• Day 57 Thursday Island, Australia
• Day 58-59 Sail the Arafura Sea
• Day 60 Darwin, Australia
• Day 61-62 Sail the Timor Sea
• Day 63 Komodo National Park (Rinca), Indonesia
• Day 64 Bali (Benoa), Indonesia
• Day 65 Bali (Benoa), Indonesia
• Day 66 Sail the Java Sea
• Day 67 Java (Semarang), Indonesia
• Day 68 Java (Jakarta), Indonesia
• Day 69 Java (Jakarta), Indonesia
• Day 70 Sail the Java Sea
• Day 71 Singapore, Singapore
• Day 72 Singapore, Singapore
• Day 73 Scenic Sailing: Strait of Malacca
• Day 74 Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia
• Day 75 Langkawi, Malaysia
• Day 76 George Town, Malaysia
• Day 77 Phuket (Patong Beach), Thailand
• Day 78-79 Sail the Bay of Bengal
• Day 80 Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Day 81 Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Day 82 Sail the Laccadive Sea
• Day 83 Malé, Maldives
• Day 84-86 Sail the Indian Ocean
• Day 87 Mahé (Victoria), Seychelles
• Day 88-89 Sail the Indian Ocean
• Day 90 Mombasa, Kenya
• Day 91 Mombasa, Kenya
• Day 92 Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Day 93 Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Day 94 Sail the Indian Ocean
• Day 95 Nosy Be (Andoany), Madagascar
• Day 96-98 Sail the Indian Ocean
• Day 99 Maputo, Mozambique
• Day 100 Richards Bay, South Africa
• Day 101 Durban, South Africa
• Day 102 East London, South Africa
• Day 103 Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa
• Day 104 Sail the Indian Ocean
• Day 105 Cape Town, South Africa
• Day 106 Cape Town, South Africa
• Day 107 Sail the South Atlantic Ocean
• Day 108 Lüderitz, Namibia
• Day 109 Walvis Bay, Namibia
• Day 110 Walvis Bay, Namibia
• Day 111-112 Sail the South Atlantic Ocean
• Day 113 Luanda, Angola
• Day 114-116 Sail the South Atlantic Ocean
• Day 117-119 Sail the North Atlantic Ocean
• Day 120 Praia, Cape Verde
• Day 121 São Vicente Island (Mindelo), Cape Verde
• Day 122-123 Sail the North Atlantic Ocean
• Day 124 Canary Islands (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Spain
• Day 125 Agadir, Morocco
• Day 126 Agadir, Morocco
• Day 127 Casablanca, Morocco
• Day 128 Casablanca, Morocco
• Day 129 Seville (Cádiz), Spain
• Day 130 Lisbon, Portugal
• Day 131 Lisbon, Portugal
• Day 132 Porto (Leixões), Portugal
• Day 133 A Coruña, Spain
• Day 134 Sail the Atlantic Ocean
• Day 135 Paris (Honfleur), France
• Day 136 Dover, England
• Day 137 London (Greenwich), England
• Day 138 London (Greenwich), England

Sail the Indian Ocean

Sail the Indian Ocean, the 3rd largest in the world. It is almost six times the size of the United States, spanning more than 6,000 miles from Africa’s southern tip to Australia’s west coast. Spend a relaxing day at sea to unwind and admire the vistas from your stateroom veranda.

Sail the Indian Ocean, the 3rd largest in the world. It is almost six times the size of the United States, spanning more than 6,000 miles from Africa’s southern tip to Australia’s west coast.

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This 180-day World Cruise Departs in 2024, Sailing to 5 Continents, 37 Countries, and 85 Ports

Viking just announced its 2024-2025 lineup of World Cruises.

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

The year may have just begun, but Viking is already looking to the future. 

On Thursday, the cruise line announced its 2024 to 2025 World Cruise itineraries, which will take guests (you guessed it) around the world. The longest cruise is the new Viking World Voyage I , departing on Dec. 19, 2024 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It will sail for 180 days visiting 85 ports of call across 37 countries on five continents.

“For 25 years, we have been committed to providing our guests with immersive and culturally enriching experiences while traveling the world in comfort,” Torstein Hagen, the chairman of Viking, shared in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . “Our previous World Cruises sold out in a matter of weeks, and we continue to see strong demand from our guests for extended voyages. Our seamless World Cruises are the greatest of all adventures and allow guests to explore more of the world with us.”

On each world cruise, Viking will offer guests deep cultural enrichment programs, including onboard lectures and locally focused entertainment, all meant to inspire an even deeper appreciation for its ports of call. Viking noted in the press release announcing these cruises that this includes the Viking Resident Historian program, which “provides guests with a high-level historical and cultural education specific to their journey.”

For those who can’t make the entire 180-day trip, Viking is offering a shorter version of the world cruise on Viking Sky. The 163-day Viking World Voyage II departs Los Angeles on January 5, 2025, and visits 29 countries before returning to New York. Guests who board the 930-person Viking Sky in New York will sail Mexico, transit the Panama Canal, and explore South America. Passengers will then embark in Los Angeles, at which point Viking Sky will cross the Pacific, visiting both the Hawaiian Islands and French Polynesia along the way. It will then explore New Zealand and Australia and sail onward through Asia, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe, before returning to New York. 

Alternatively, guests can hop on the 121-day voyage Viking World Journeys on the brand-new Viking Neptune, which departs Los Angeles on Jan. 9, 2023, and visit 23 countries before guests disembark in London four months later.

As for what to expect on board, identical ocean ships Neptune and Sky both feature Scandinavian design across their Veranda Staterooms that start from 270 square feet, all the way to the 14 Explorer Suites, which range from 757 to 1,163 square feet for those who want a little more space for their around-the-world journey. 

Those who want to book their trip ASAP will be rewarded, as now through March 31, 2023, Viking is offering exclusive savings, including free business-class airfare, ground transfers, visa service, and a top-shelf beverage package. And, all World Cruise guests will receive $2,000 per person in shore excursion credits, so they can get to know the world just a little bit better with every stop. Learn more and book your sailing here . 

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• Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Los Angeles, California
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Panama Canal & the Pacific Coast

• From $8,499
• 5 Guided Tours
• 5 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Los Angeles, California Los Angeles, California to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Panama Canal & the Pacific Coast Map

Lush rainforests & landscapes

Sail across the Gulf of Mexico and discover the tranquil island of Cozumel, famed for its world-class diving spots and delicious seafood. Take in the historic gems of Cartagena, Colombia, and cruise to Panama to cross its historic canal, a 20th-century engineering marvel. See the lush rainforests and verdant landscapes of Puntarenas, the tropical jungle of Costa Rica and explore Cabo San Lucas on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

Pricing that covers everything guests need—and nothing they do not.

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen

42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand

Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service

Security safe

110/220 volt outlets

Ample USB ports

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Ft. Lauderdale

From $499 | 1 Nights

From $1,199 | 2 Nights

Post: Los Angeles

From $1,299 | 2 Nights

On this itinerary, your Viking Resident Historian is delivering the following iconic lectures:

• - Explorers: The Age of Discovery
• - Pirates & Treasure Hunters
• - Pre-Columbian Civilizations
• - Oceans in Context
• - Islands in History
• - History of Navigation

Viking Resident Historian

As part of our onboard cultural enrichment program and commitment to destination-focused learning, our Viking Resident Historian faculty provides guests with lectures and roundtable discussions on the arts, architecture, music and culture of upcoming ports and various aspects of world history.

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Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

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• Scandinavia
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• World Cruises
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Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

Panama Canal with Viking Cruises

Many people consider a cruise through the Panama Canal to be a must-do experience , and it is one of the most popular locations for cruise ships worldwide. On Viking Cruises’ Panama Canal cruises, you will see a variety of ports of call, beautiful landscapes, and engaging cultures—all with the goal of making your trip through the Panama Canal as enjoyable as possible. During your journey, you will be able to explore the canal’s huge lock system. While cruising through the amazing, more than 100-year-old Panama Canal, you might wonder how far the human mind can go in its pursuit for solutions.

Viking Cruises to the Panama Canal from Florida

The Viking Cruises ship departs from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) in Florida  on its way to the Panama Canal.  Cruises are often combined with visits to Panama City and Colon  in Panama , which have the world’s largest duty-free shopping area. The opportunity to see the passage through the locks will be both amazing and overwhelming, after which you may head ashore to explore the culture of the inhabitants or the beauty of the rainforest. Combine your cruise with an excursion, and you’ll see significantly more of the attractions than on a regular cruise vacation. All of this and more awaits you on a Viking Cruises voyage to the Panama Canal.

Enjoy your Viking Cruises cruise vacation to the Panama Canal from Florida.

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, March 13, 2025

14-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: March 13, 2025; Duration: 14-day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports of[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, February 27, 2025

14-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 27, 2025; Duration: 14 day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, February 7, 2025

10-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal and Panama City with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: February 7, 2025; Duration: 10-day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports of[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, January 24, 2025

14-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 24, 2025; Duration: 14 day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, January 10, 2025

14-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: January 10, 2025; Duration: 14 day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal New Year cruise from Fort Lauderdale, December 27, 2024

14-day Holiday cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: December 27, 2024; Duration: 14 day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars;[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, December 7, 2024

10-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal and Panama City with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: December 7, 2024; Duration: 10-day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports of[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, November 23, 2024

14-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: November 23, 2024; Duration: 14 day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, November 9, 2024

14-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal & Montego Bay with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: November 9, 2024; Duration: 14 day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports[…]

Viking Mars, Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale, October 20, 2024

10-day cruise to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Puerto Limon, Colon, Panama Canal and Panama City with Viking Cruises Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: October 20, 2024; Duration: 10-day cruise; Cruise Line: Viking Cruises; Cruise Ship: Viking Mars; Ports of[…]

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10 Night Classic Panama Canal Passage

Focusing their sailings on the culture of each cruises destination. Onboard each sailing you have lectures, demonstrations and tastings as part of a Culture Curriculum.

Experience rich island cultures and dazzling blend of turquoise waters, emerald isles, European legacies, magnificent natural beauty and breathtaking manmade wonders on your Viking Oceans cruise to the Caribbean.

With incredible weather, delicious fare and some stupendous attractions, you will find that Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is one of the most attractive ports in the entire US.

• Viking Mars - Passenger Capacity: 930 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2022 Last Refurbished: N/A

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

Cruise Line

Cruise Ship

Viking Mars

Departing From

Destination

Ports of call.

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida , Cozumel, Mexico , Belize City, Belize , Caldera (san Jose), Costa Rica , Colon, Panama , Fuerte Amador, Panama

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Viking Oceans: up to FREE Airfare*

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit* - TCW Exclusive

• Itinerary & Pricing

10 Night Classic Panama Canal Passage sailing on the Viking Mars

Departure dates: oct 2024 - dec 2025.

From $4,199

From $13,999

From $3,799

From $3,299

Stateroom prices for Oct. 20, 2024

Published prices from

Based on Balcony cabin prices

Based on Suite cabin prices

Sailing Map

*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

†  Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares.

Rates and offers are subject to select dates and categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, and include NCCF. Government taxes and fees are additional. All rates and offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability and confirmation, and may change without notice. Adjustments for currency and/or fuel fluctuations may apply. Air seats are limited; therefore, air fares are subject to change and not guaranteed until full payment is received. Optional shore excursions/tours/concerts, excess baggage charges, drinks, beverages and meals not included in the package are additional costs to the passenger. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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NEW! Viking World Voyage I

• From $79,995
• 86 Guided Tours
• 38 Countries
• Dates & Pricing

NEW! Viking World Voyage I Map

Circumnavigate the world

Traverse the globe on an unforgettable voyage across vast oceans to destinations on six continents. From Ft. Lauderdale, discover faraway lands in the South Pacific and Asia. Witness wildlife in the African bush and see the Iberian Peninsula's gems. Explore the British Isles and the rugged beauty of the far north. Immerse yourself in intriguing cities with overnights in Cape Town, Singapore, London and more, as you experience the world like never before.

VIKING WORLD VOYAGE I

Free business class airfare + transfers $2,000 per couple shore excursion credit $1,000 per couple shipboard credit an additional $1,000 per couple shipboard credit for viking explorer society members complimentary visa service, silver spirits beverage package, wi-fi and more., expires june 30, 2024.

Viking Inclusive Value

Pricing that covers everything guests need—and nothing they do not.

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen

42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand

Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service

Security safe

110/220 volt outlets

Ample USB ports

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Ft. Lauderdale

From $899 | 2 Nights

Post: New York

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Protect Your Trip »

9 bucket list cruises for seniors and retirees.

These cruise lines appeal to older travelers with adults-only sailings, accessible staterooms and more.

Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Make the memories of a lifetime on a cruise for seniors and retirees.

Cruises are an often dreamt-about retirement goal, especially for long-time cruise lovers who have always been short on time. Retirement can be the ideal season of life to sail off into the sunset for several weeks, whether to far-off lands like Antarctica or a peaceful journey down the Danube. In some cases, seniors embrace their golden years by booking epic, monthslong voyages around the world.

Many small- and medium-sized ships cater to the over-60 crowd, but that doesn't mean guests will be relegated to shuffleboard and bingo games. Today's seniors still have plenty of adventures to experience and memories to make, both on board and on shore. The following cruise lines offer the top bucket list sailings for seniors and retirees.

Windstar Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, oceania cruises, holland america line, cunard line, aurora expeditions.

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Anyone who has ever fancied a near-private yacht-style cruise experience will love the vibe of Windstar Cruises. Each of its yachts holds between 148 and 342 guests, with a 1-to-1.5 crew-to-guest ratio. This makes for more intimate sailings – not only because there's simply less ship to maneuver on foot, but also because Windstar ships have access to ports that megaships aren't permitted to enter. The end result is the unique ability to explore lesser-known destinations and smaller cities. While Windstar is not a strictly adults-only cruise line , you won't see any little ones on board, either. Children must be at least 8 years old to sail on the line, which further adds to the high-end ambiance.

In 2021 and 2022, Windstar's Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend ships received a refresh. The three all-suite yachts were cut in half and enhanced with new suites and amenities, bringing the capacity to 312 passengers on each vessel. These Star Plus Class ships also boast new restaurants, a reimagined spa and fitness center, and more efficient engines, among other improvements. Elevators help make the Star Plus Class ships more accessible for anyone with limited mobility (note that Wind Class ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit do not have elevators). Additionally, Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend each have four wheelchair-accessible suites, which feature a smaller queen bed and reduced "wheel around" space.

On board, passengers can drop by the Open Bridge anytime for an impromptu lesson in chart reading, listen to live music in the Lounge or jump directly into the water from the Watersports Platform. Culinary highlights include restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, which serves a twist on modern Spanish cuisine by the 10-time Michelin-starred chef, as well as culinary shore excursions with hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market tours to explore fresh local ingredients.

The cruise industry is abuzz with interest in one of Windstar's newest itineraries, which introduces passengers to the Middle East. The Inaugural Sparkling Sands & Cities itinerary sets sail in November 2023, visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; and Muscat, Oman, among others. Foodies will be especially interested in the James Beard Foundation's Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf itinerary, scheduled to embark in February 2024. Windstar's other destinations include Asia, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific and more.

Read: How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Adam Hillier | Courtesy of Viking

Spanning seven continents via river, ocean and expedition vessels, Viking is considered a quintessential high-end cruise experience. For more than 25 years, it has provided destination-focused sailings designed to allow its guests to explore the world in supreme comfort. Its voyages particularly appeal to travelers older than 50 who are interested in science, history, culture and cuisine.

Every Viking cruise fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, onboard meals, beer and wine (with lunch and dinner service), Wi-Fi access, and all port charges and government taxes. On Viking's ocean and expedition vessels, guests also enjoy complimentary self-service laundry, access to the Thermal Suite in The Spa, high tea service, alternative restaurant dining and 24-hour room service. But the best part for older cruisers may be what's not included on Viking sailings: kids. This adults-only cruise line is dedicated to guests 18 and older.

Viking's fleet – with capacities ranging from 80 to 998 passengers (on river and ocean cruises, respectively) – feature elegant Scandinavian-style decor. The small ship cruises get closer to their destinations, spend more time in port and include more overnight stays, too.

One of Viking's newest ocean vessels, the all-veranda Viking Saturn, debuted in 2023 and focuses on European sailings. Its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean route from Venice to Athens is particular popular, with stops in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Greece. Another in-demand route is the Danube Christmas Delights itinerary on the Viking Longships, which visits enchanting villages, cultural capitals and iconic Christmas markets for a festive holiday cruise .

To suit their needs, guests can choose between different activity levels for walking tour-focused shore excursions. For bibliophiles, The Library on each ship is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute on the expedition vessels. Viking also holds exclusive partnerships with prestigious scientific institutions, which makes it possible for at least 36 experts – including field research scientists, mountain guides, submarine pilots and other specialists – to accompany passengers on each expedition journey.

Book a  Viking cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Billed as one of the world's most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines , Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features small ships with an average capacity of 120 guests and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the rivers of 1-to-2.4. Part of the allure of the small ship size is a more personalized travel experience that delivers passengers to destinations ocean liners aren't able to visit (such as the Venetian Lagoon, where large ships have been banned from entry).

Uniworld ships are akin to floating boutique hotels, designed to reflect the destinations in which they sail – a vast list that includes ports in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Guests will appreciate the exquisite details on board, including unique artwork from some of the most famous artists in the world (think: Pablo Picasso and David Hockney), handmade fabrics from local artisans and handcarved furnishings.

Additionally, Uniworld's all-inclusive cruise experience includes all onboard meals, which are made with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, as well as unlimited premium spirits and fine wines. In the base fare, voyages also include a selection of shore excursions, daily entertainment, fitness centers, wellness classes, airport transfers, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi access and more.

Uniworld makes it particularly easy to visit many of Europe's most enchanting Christmas towns on a single cruise, where passengers can visit the festive holiday markets and get all their seasonal shopping done. For seniors with more time to spare, the Rivers of the World Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This 55-day itinerary departs from Lima, Peru , in October 2024 and takes 40 guests across three continents via four ships to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Find  Uniworld Boutique River Cruises  on GoToSea.

This upscale brand recently relaunched under A&K Travel Group with a reimagined vision. Crystal Serenity (which holds up to 740 guests) and Crystal Symphony (carrying up to 606 passengers) underwent a combined $150 million dollar refurbishment that includes updated suites and new wellness offerings at the Aurōra spa. While sailing the high seas with Crystal, passengers' needs are met at every step of the way – a perk made possible by the nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. A dedicated butler in every stateroom and suite will help with packing and unpacking, stocking your fridge, making restaurant reservations, booking excursions and more.

Crystal offers impressive enrichment programming, hosting high-profile lecturers with backgrounds in sports, entertainment and science. Spend some time refining your technology skills at Computer University@Sea and perfecting your ballroom dance moves, photography abilities, golf swing or bridge game. There's also a well-stocked library containing books on a range of subjects, along with board games and a pickleball court.

Dining options on board include Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian dining venue developed by Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Unlike some other cruise lines that charge a fee for each specialty dining reservation, Crystal allows guests to enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for sailings of 11 days or less. After dinner, nightly entertainment can be found in several venues, such as live music in the Galaxy Lounge.

Crystal sails on itineraries of varying length to the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa and the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, and Asia. If you're planning a bucket list trip, consider the line's 123-night 2025 World Cruise, which travels to 62 destinations across 31 countries between Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Barcelona, Spain .

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Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Seniors with a penchant for epicurean delights tend to gravitate toward Oceania Cruises for their cruise vacations – it's known for having one of the finest culinary programs at sea. This cruise line focuses on small ship luxury, with seven ships currently in service carrying between 670 and 1,250 passengers each. An eighth ship, Allura, is set to debut in 2025.

Newer ships like the Vista – the first of the Allura class vessels, which joined the fleet in May 2023 – have wheelchair-accessible rooms and a plethora of onboard culinary venues. A few highlights include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes; The Bakery at Baristas, serving freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant Ember, an upscale American eatery. Don't miss the Cellar Master's Wine Luncheon: a two-hour, hand-selected tasting led by the head sommelier that features a five-course menu paired with premium wines for each dish.

Senior cruisers will enjoy the Aquamar Spa's signature massage therapies, which use natural ingredients and modern techniques to release stress and tension. The Vitality Center offers a steam room, a thalassotherapy pool and heated lounge beds for extra relief. Onboard entertainment on Oceania, meanwhile, includes musical performances and immersive shows with dance numbers led by "Dancing With the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart. The Culinary Center is a fan favorite for seniors, offering the opportunity to practice cooking techniques and learn about the unique flavor profiles of regional dishes.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a location Oceania doesn't sail to, with cruises to Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, Antarctica and more, as well as transoceanic voyages and 180-day world cruises. Oceania also provides a good overall value, thanks to its included specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, round-trip airfare and transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

Explore  Oceania Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

As a premium, midsize cruise line, Holland America Line offers plenty of destinations, excursions and activities aligned to an older audience. The smaller ship size, which averages around 2,000 passengers per sailing, allows for many of the ships to dock in ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, getting passengers even closer to the destinations they're visiting. For older passengers who may have limited mobility, the option to simply disembark the ship without waiting for a tender or other means of transportation can make or break a trip.

Holland America Line, though family-friendly, offers myriad excursions that are primarily adult-oriented and open to all types of adventurers. Shore excursions are clearly marked with an activity level ranging from easy to strenuous, from leisurely wine tastings and relaxing strolls through ancient towns to ATV rides through the jungle and dog-sledding on a glacier only accessible via helicopter.

Onboard entertainment and activities are plentiful; guests often enjoy the multiple music lounges and venues on each ship, along with hosted programs such as bingo and trivia. For seniors who can't get enough of the pickleball trend, Holland America Line has partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring branded courts and equipment on board. After all that action on the court, unwind in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon with a rejuvenating treatment. (Pro tip: Add on the Thermal Suite for access to the healing hydrotherapy circuit and heated, tiled loungers that will melt all your cares away.)

The numerous onboard dining options bring together cuisines and flavors from all over the world, with specialty restaurants featuring menus developed by a team of master chefs known as Holland America's Culinary Council. In addition to casual dining in the Lido Market and multicourse affairs in The Dining Room, each ship also features the Pinnacle Grill, an onboard steakhouse offering high-end meats and seafood. Other specialty restaurants vary by ship and may include Italian eatery Canaletto and the French-inspired Rudi's Sel de Mer.

Holland America Line sails all over the world. It does an especially nice job with its Greek island cruises and Adriatic Sea adventures. One of the line's newest ships, Rotterdam , is a crowd-pleaser with its sleek design details and an onboard art collection valued at more than $4.1 million. Still, longtime favorites like the refurbished Oosterdam and Eurodam host plenty of happy guests.

Compare  Holland America Line  cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Azamara

Another all-inclusive, senior-friendly brand is Azamara, which boasts a long list of perks covered in the base fare. Your one-time payment covers meals and beverages, including standard spirits, international beers and a limited amount of wine by the glass; you can upgrade to a beverage package if you'd like access to premium brands. Other included amenities range from self-service laundry to gratuities to special cultural evenings featuring onboard or onshore performances by locals.

There are four ships in Azamara's fleet. Each carries up to 702 passengers, so they still fit comfortably into the small ship category and can access less-visited ports than larger vessels. Destinations on Azamara include ports throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, and the Caribbean; there are also transoceanic itineraries. If spending roughly half a year on a cruise ship sounds like your ideal retirement plan, consider the Azamara World Voyage in 2025. Over 155 nights, you'll visit 37 countries.

Each of the line's ships has staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, and Azamara has created customized shore excursion tours for guests with disabilities as well. Accessible tours are designed for full-time wheelchair users or guests unable to navigate motor-coach steps.

There are plenty of entertainment options on board, including Club Crooner's hits from current and classic songbirds, as well as ship-specific venues with various song and dance performances. Plus, every cruise hosts a White Night signature dinner and entertainment event on the pool deck (so be sure to pack your favorite white attire). Unwind with darts, arts and crafts, pingpong, shuffleboard, trivia contests, bingo and dance lessons. Don't miss opportunities to attend lectures through the enrichment program.

Find an  Azamara  cruise on GoToSea.

Christopher Ison | Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line's ocean liners have sailed between the U.K. and New York since 1840 – and the brand's relationship with the British monarchy is integral to its heritage. As such, each ship is named after a British queen. The newest ship, Queen Anne, joins the fleet in 2024.

In keeping with its history, Cunard Line has several signature experiences that help set the brand apart. Afternoon tea is a Cunard tradition observed daily in the Queen's Room; expect white-gloved waiters serving scones and finger sandwiches alongside infused teas in silver teapots (add Champagne for an additional fee). During gala evenings, guests don tuxedos and ballgowns for a sophisticated celebration you won't soon forget. Themes range from Masquerade to Roaring 20s; you'll get a heads-up before you pack your cruise attire .

Each of the four stateroom grades has its own dedicated fine dining restaurant with excellent service and indulgent menus, though there are several casual dining options as well – not to mention specialty dining venues for an additional fee. A host of activities will keep you busy day and night, including a library, open-air pools, fitness facilities, live music, theater performances, guest speaker events, board games, film screenings, art classes, planetarium shows (on Queen Mary 2) and group dance classes.

Accessible shore experiences are available in many ports, ranging from lower activity-level tours to adaptations for wheelchair users. Accessible staterooms are available on Queen Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 ; these come with modifications like wider entryways, nonslip bathroom floors and shower seats.

Explore  Cunard Line  deals on GoToSea.

Scott Portelli | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Nothing says "once-in-a-lifetime" quite like embarking on an expedition to the world's most remote destinations – and, specifically, to Antarctica. For cruisers looking to explore this far-off land, Aurora Expeditions is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Founded by legendary adventurer Greg Mortimer, the brand sends an education-focused expedition team on each voyage, with a ratio of about one team member per every eight passengers. With an average of just 132 cruisers on these sailings, you'll get more one-on-one time with your expedition team.

Seniors can climb aboard Aurora Expeditions' Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle ship for innovative itineraries to the Great White Continent. When the ship isn't pausing to watch breaching whales, passengers can kayak between icebergs, visit penguin colonies or take guided hikes across the tundra. Aurora describes its cruises as "100% climate neutral," with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

All of Aurora Expeditions' voyages let travelers explore at their own pace, making it a great option for all ages. There are many included activities on each expedition, such as bird-watching, photography, lectures on wildlife, Zodiac cruises and near-shore excursions. The line will even outfit you with Muck boots and waterproof polar jackets. The entire voyage is laid-back, with an informal dress code.

On board, all cabins have a view of the ocean, and most have their own balcony. Tips are included in the cost of your cruise, and guests can enjoy a complimentary house wine or beer with dinner. Look forward to hearty dishes to help fuel your activities, with some buffet-style meals, a la carte options and a reservations-required restaurant on each ship.

Read: The Top Antarctica Cruises

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the mid-'90s and has since visited dozens of destinations around the globe. Whether she's on the newest megaship, an older small ship or a luxury yacht, she loves life at sea. She used extensive research and her decades of experience as a cruiser to write this article (she has taken two cruises with her 70-year-old dad just this year). Schildhouse covers the travel industry for myriad top-tier outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, AARP, Fodor's, Reader's Digest and Insider.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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‘Worth Every Single Cent’: Couple Splurge on Viking Cruise for Anniversary

M ichelle and Gary Brown, of Collegeville , usually very budget conscious, decided to treat themselves to a luxury Viking cruise down the Rhine River in Europe for their 25th wedding anniversary, writes Nathan Diller for USA Today .

The trip cost around $13,000, but after spending years longingly watching Viking commercials on television, they felt that the trip for such a special occasion was “worth every single cent,” said Michelle.

The price tag of the cruise included a veranda suite on the Viking Hervor ship, all the meals, excursions, airport transfers, flights, and more.

The ship makes stops in Cologne, Germany and Strasbourg , France as well as other popular destinations along the way.

“If I would have done a European trip to all these different cities, it would have probably been close to that (price),” said Michelle.

The cruise had a capacity of just 190 guests, which made it possible for the crew members to properly get to know them during the eight days.

The cruise line offered “top-of-the-line everything,” including lamb chops for lunch on the ship on the first day.

“I mean, it was just something that we are not really accustomed to in the life that we live,” said Michelle. “This was a real special treat.”

Read more about the couple in USA Today .

_______________________

Check out this guide to Viking River Cruises.

Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on DELCO Today in June 2023.

FEATURE STORY

Cruise Ships are Revving up

It looks like 2023 is the year that vacations take to the ocean again en masse. The vessels are larger and more decked out than ever

By Fran Golden

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

Cruise ships are on a mission to recapture the seas. The COVID pandemic forced cruise lines to pull their ships into port, but now that health concerns have eased, passengers are returning. They are finding an industry reborn.

As a longtime travel journalist, I have been on 170 ships, and I have seen how cruise lines can engage in a hospitality arms race. Before the pandemic struck, many new megaships were already on order, but the delay in launching means that 2023 will feel even more momentous for the industry. Come with us as we look at the crazy-huge world of cruises.

An adults-only deck on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

SHIP DESIGN

Making Big Ships Feel Less Big

THERE’S AN interesting paradox about megaships. The extreme sizes mean that cruise lines can add more and more things to do, but at some point, ships may become too large for passengers to easily enjoy. And so Royal Caribbean has divided its Icon of the Seas ship, to launch next year, into eight “neighborhoods,” the idea being that you choose the section that suits your interests and mostly stay in that area. One neighborhood caters to families with children, for example, while another is meant for young singles and couples.

Carnival Cruise Line has “adults-only spaces,” where passengers can enjoy some peace and quiet around hot tubs, pools and bars, away from the family crowd.

Royal Caribbean has a show with superhero characters.

ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway Shows and Ways to Play Onstage

THE OLD Las Vegas–style revues are long gone. Now singers and dancers recruited from Broadway and London’s West End appear in slightly truncated versions of Broadway shows such as Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, which on the Norwegian Prima morphs into a big disco party with the audience.

Daytime entertainment likewise has been updated. While the old belly flop and hairy chest contests are out, a replacement has emerged: On Carnival’s Mardi Gras and its sister ships, you can watch—or play!— Family Feud Live .

Carnival Cruise Line’s Bolt roller coaster

Board a Floating Theme Park

ROLLER coasters are thrilling enough, but one at sea gives you the sensation of flying above the vast ocean blue. Melisa Colby, 62, has ridden the coaster on Carnival’s 5,282-passenger Mardi Gras. “The first time, I screamed,” says the preschool teacher from Jacksonville, Florida. “The second, third and fourth times, I was smiling and putting my arms up in the air.”

On Royal Caribbean’s Icon, travelers will enjoy a water park with six slides. Nearby, on an attraction that’s a combination skywalk, ropes course and thrill ride, you’ll be able to strap on a harness and walk a plank. At the end of the plank, the bottom drops out, and you’ll swing 154 feet above the ocean.

The Norwegian Prima Speedway

Norwegian Cruise Line’s new 3,100-passenger Norwegian Prima is topped with a go-kart track. Another attraction is a 10-deck drop in a waterless tube slide mostly suspended off the side of the ship.

Food on Celebrity Beyond

Eat Your Way Around the World

FOOD HAS always been a cruising calling card, and it has gotten better and more varied to reflect the growing “foodie” culture. Global flavors and vegan and vegetarian options are getting more play, and cruise companies have finally realized that their passengers might like to taste food from the destinations they’re visiting, such as jerk chicken when they sail to Jamaica.

To satisfy a whole lot of tastes, the Norwegian Prima has a complimentary Food Hall where you can choose from counters featuring Southern comfort food, Spanish tapas or Indian chicken tikka, to name a few options. “They are leading in trends that we are seeing on land and doing it so well,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor in chief of the leading website Cruise Critic.

From left: Emeril Lagasse; Celebrity Beyond ’s Magic Carpet restaurant

Some cruise lines are adding new specialty restaurants that charge extra for upgraded choices, such as sushi and aged steaks. Big culinary names may be involved. Emeril Lagasse has New Orleans–style bistros on Carnival’s latest ships (a shrimp po’boy won’t break the bank at $6), while the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and sister ship Celebrity Ascent (debuting in December 2023) will boast restaurants by renowned chef Daniel Boulud (from $75 per person for three courses; $125 for five).

Over the years that traveler Jill Dill Vincent, 78, has cruised with Carnival, she has seen more sophisticated menus in the main dining rooms. “I love the lobster,” she says. Her husband, Ken, 74, favors the desserts, especially the “melting chocolate cake.”

Drinks on the Carnival Mardi Gras, left , and the Norwegian Prima

Brewing Up Refreshment

THE CRAFT beer boom can’t be contained by land. The latest Carnival ships have onboard breweries. Also in vogue: molecular cocktails that smoke and change colors. At a bar on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, you can order the Crystal Ball, a tequila drink that arrives in a foggy orb. Norwegian Prima has a “sustainable” bar featuring drinks made with ingredients that might otherwise be discarded, as well as earth-friendly biodynamic wines.

Sea kayaking in Alaska, on a Holland America excursion

PORTS OF CALL

Beyond the Beach

THE CARIBBEAN and Bermuda together represent 44 percent of the world cruise market, according to the Cruise Lines International Association, making them by far the world’s most popular cruise destinations. For North American travelers, cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean are also expected to be popular this year as passengers regain their sea legs.

From left: Wildlife in the Caribbean; salmon fishing on a Princess cruise stop in Alaska.

That’s fairly typical. But what is changing is what travelers do when on shore: “more sustainable and local experiences,” says Roberta Jacoby, a hospitality and travel industry consultant. Cruise lines are fulfilling demand with cultural, adventure, multigenerational, lifestyle and wellness addon shore excursions via local operators. On Holland America Line and Princess Cruises ships in Alaska, you can go salmon fishing with a local fisherman and, after you reel in “the big one,” have your catch cooked by the ship’s chefs. On a Caribbean cruise, you might visit an ecopark and farm that promotes environmental education on St. Kitts or skip the beach in favor of a green monkey encounter at a wildlife reserve in Barbados.

Fran Golden is an award-winning travel journalist and the author of numerous travel books, including 100 Things to Do in Alaska Before You Die.

COMPARE THE COSTS*

Visit the Caribbean by sea, or stay at a resort? Sample trips for a couple from Chicago:

MIDRANGE Seven-night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas from Miami

February 25 to March 4

PRICE: $2,070 for Oceanview Cabin, including food and many activities

NOTES: Alcohol, onboard Wi-Fi, tipping and shore excursions are extra, plus $200 for hotel on night before departure.

AIRFARE: $225 round trip per person

TOTAL: About $2,720 plus onboard extras

MIDRANGE Seven-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Vista from Miami

March 9 to 16

PRICE: $6,698 for a Veranda Stateroom, including food and onboard activities

NOTES: Wi-Fi included; alcohol and excursions are extra, plus $200 for hotel on night before departure.

AIRFARE: $380 per person

TOTAL: About $7,660 plus onboard extras

LUXURY Seven nights at Secrets Aura Cozumel

PRICE: $4,981 for a Junior Suite at this Mexican oceanfront resort, spa and dive center. That includes unlimited dining, drinking and tips.

NOTES: Off-resort trips and activities are not included.

AIRFARE: $206 per person

TOTAL: About $5,395 plus off-resort extras

LUXURY Seven nights at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

PRICE: $7,299 for a Caribbean Honeymoon Walkout room at this oceanfront resort on a Caribbean island. That includes unlimited dining and drinking.

AIRFARE: $536 per person

TOTAL: About $8,370 plus off-resort extras

*Sources: royalcaribbean.com , amrcollection.com , oceaniacruises.com , sandals.com , kayak.com . Prices are as of December 5, 2022.

STAY HEALTHY WHILE AT SEA

IN THE WAKE of the pandemic, cruise ships have upgraded their health and safety systems, from hand sanitizers throughout the ship to medical-grade air filters in the ventilation systems to robots that shoot ultraviolet rays to kill bacteria.

But you’ll no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to board many ships, though unvaccinated travelers are still encouraged to provide a negative COVID test result. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which shut down cruising in North America from March 2020 to June 2021, ended its intense monitoring of the industry in July 2022, saying that cruise passengers “can make their own risk assessment when choosing to cruise, much like they do in other settings.”

Here’s what to expect:

→ Cruise ship medical centers have been upgraded with equipment to test for COVID-19, and medical teams have added personnel to better treat anyone who falls ill, even severely ill.

→ When a passenger tests positive, contact tracing commences. On some ships, security cameras will use facial recognition to aid in this task; on the big ships with thousands of passengers you may be traced via an app on your smartphone or a smart wristband provided at check-in.

→ Passengers who get sick will be confined to their cabins or cabins set aside for quarantine purposes. Meals will be delivered to those rooms.

→ Wearing a mask is a personal choice.

SHIP SIZE REALLY DOES MATTER

TRANSATLANTIC OCEAN LINERS

1911 RMS Titanic

882.9 feet 2,435 passengers

RMS Queen Mary 1,019.5 feet

2,038 passengers

RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 964.5 feet

2,081 passengers

PLEASURE SHIPS

1971 Pacific Princess (the “Love Boat”)

550 feet  750 passengers

1972 TSS Mardi Gras 650 feet

1,240 passengers

1988 Royal Caribbean Sovereign of the Seas (first “megaship”)

2,690 passengers

1996 Carnival Destiny 893 feet

3,350 passengers

2009 Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas 1,187 feet

6,771 passenger

2020 Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas 1,188 feet

7,084 passengers

ETA 2024 Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas 1,198 feet

7,600 passengers

Aboard Wind Surf , a Windstar Cruises ship, in Majorca, Spain

ANOTHER ROUTE

Small Ships Can Come Up Big

THE AVERAGE ocean cruise ship carries about 2,125 passengers. But sharing a boat with so many people isn’t for everyone, which is why many smaller-ship excursions have become available.

“People who think that cruise ships have not changed since The Love Boat or that all ships are built for 5,000 of your closest friends are simply wrong,” says Rob Clabbers, president of Q Cruise + Travel in Chicago.

Small ships that carry fewer than 1,000 passengers don’t have amusement park attractions, but they have other benefits, especially for older travelers, including a more adult crowd. Viking bans anyone under age 18 on its 930-passenger ocean ships and on its riverboats.

A trio performs in the Wintergarden on a Viking cruise, which also offers tea service.

With their shallow drafts, small ships can navigate into more out-of-the-way places. It’s the difference between, say, docking next to other megaships in bustling St. Thomas and then getting passengers to shore via shuttle boats, and anchoring next to the superyachts of the rich and famous in trendy St. Barts. Since small ships don’t need to keep track of thousands of passengers, they also tend to stay longer in port, giving passengers more time to enjoy local dining and nightlife.

The Evrima , a 149-suite ship that is part of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet.

On most of these cruises, you will pay a premium. Want a weeklong trip on a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection ship that carries 298 passengers? That goes for $7,000 to $25,000 for most seven-night cruises. A cruise to Antarctica on equivalent lines costs about that much too. But some small-ship companies will reduce prices to less than $3,000 per person for seven-night sailings in the competitive Caribbean and during quieter seasons, such as fall and winter, in Europe.

SOME LEADING SMALL-SHIP CRUISE LINES

→ Windstar Cruises This line has a fleet of three 148- to 342-passenger sailing ships and three all-suite 312-passenger motor yachts. The informal environment on voyages features a lavish buffet served under the stars.

→ Viking Ocean ships These ships follow the same all-inclusive model as the company’s riverboats in Europe. Viking in 2022 topped award lists by both  Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.

→ Azamara cruises The line’s four upscale ships top out at around 700 passengers and include cultural events with local performers.

→ Other premium lines Also consider Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. Or look for older ships on mass-market lines, some of which carry fewer than 3,000 passengers. —F.G .

From top: Courtesy Royal Caribbean Cruises; Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line; Courtesy Royal Caribbean Cruises; Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line; Courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line; Courtesy Celebrity Cruises; (from left) John Lamparski/Getty Images, Courtesy Celebrity Cruises; (from left) Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line, Courtesy Gene Sloan/The Points Guy; (from left) Courtesy Princess Cruise Lines, Adrian Davies/NPL/Minden Pictures; Courtesy Michael Nalley/ Windstar Cruises; Courtesy Charissa Fay/Viking Cruises (2); Courtesy Jack Hardy/The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection; Courtesy Windstar Cruises; Courtesy Charissa Fay/Viking Cruises; Courtesy Jenna Lyn/Azamara; Courtesy Holland America

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