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9 Best Cruises for Seniors to Take As Soon As You Retire

From relaxing in the Caribbean to exploring the rivers of Europe, these are the best cruises for travelers over 60.

Cruises offer advantages for travelers of all ages, but for seniors , conveniences like being able to visit many destinations without packing and unpacking, arranging flights, transfers, checking in and out of hotels, finding restaurants, and booking excursions are especially important. And, for seniors with limited mobility, those cruise features just might mean the difference between taking a wonderful trip or staying home.

Generalizing about individuals of any age, especially seniors, just doesn't work. Physically, many are as active and capable as 25 year-olds, while others may have limitations that prevent long walks or managing heavy luggage. Some are curious and want to see every detail on an itinerary; others are content to relax and watch the scenery go by. Many are entertained by learning new things or hearing from expert lecturers, while others enjoy nightlife and live shows. Limited budgets are not unusual among seniors with fixed incomes, while others can afford to choose more luxurious options .

There are cruises that meet every need. In fact, most large ships have so much to offer that couples or groups of friends cruising together can choose the activities they enjoy most and then join for dinner or cocktails at the end of the day. Solo travelers have opportunities to meet others during meals, excursions, or onboard activities. Many cruise companies and ships pay particular attention to amenities that make travel easier and more appealing for seniors , especially those with special needs. Travelers as young as 50 may be eligible for special discounts on cruises, so it's never too early to start planning a cruise for the next phase of your life.

That said, here are the 9 best cruises for seniors, from the rivers to the seas.

River Cruises for Seniors

Increasing in popularity with new ships added each year, river cruising is ideal for seniors.

Ports are usually close to cities, sailing is smooth, ships are small (with usually no more than 200 passengers), and most shore excursions offer several levels of walking intensity. For those who prefer to stay onboard, comfortable lounges, outdoor seating, and stateroom balconies provide the perfect views.

European rivers are among the most traveled, especially the Rhine and Danube, with lovely towns to see and visit. Others are the Douro, Seine, and Rhone as well as the Mekong in Vietnam, the Nile in Egypt, and the Volga in Russia. Cruises range from a week to as long as three weeks when several rivers are combined. Specialty river cruises might focus on food, wine, or Christmas markets. These are the top river cruise lines for seniors.

River Cruise Lines

Viking River Cruises are adults-only and on several rivers. Hit the Danube to get from Vienna to Bucharest, sail the Nile with Egyptologists, or pass through Holland during tulip season. Catering to retirees, with most passengers over the age of 60, Viking is for the well-traveled cruiser looking for their next adventure. It considers itself “the thinking person’s cruise,” with excursions and onboard programming designed with educational and cultural impact in mind. Their "Longships" offer larger suites and outdoor dining. Musical performances, lectures, cooking demonstrations, and destination insights provide plenty to do onboard.  

AmaWaterways focuses on European cruises, but offers a few sailings through Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well. Their ship, AmaMagna, sails the Danube and offers twice the width of traditional river cruise ships, allowing for more lounge space on the Sun Deck as you glide to gorgeous locales, more intimate activities and excursions, and additional dining options. A range of shore excursions ensures there's something for everyone's interests and abilities at each port, from guided hikes and bike rides to cooking demonstrations. Everything is as convenient as possible with ports steps from points of interest, and concierge services that help travelers reserve their flights, airport transfers, and hotel reservations for before or after the cruise.  

Avalon Waterways offers river cruises as short as four or five days for those who want to "test the waters" before a longer commitment. They sail across Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, with special interest journeys like the Storyteller Series, which hosts authors like Candace Bushnell and Gillian Flynn onboard. With larger suites and fewer passengers, these cruises are perfect for passengers who want to stretch out and enjoy a quiet respite. Travelers can choose which off-boat activities they want to participate in (like picnics, kayaking, or painting) based on their abilities and what kind of trip they want. The plushly-appointed Panorama Suites with floor to ceiling windows and open-air balconies make your cabin one of the most comfortable places to watch the world pass by.

American Cruise Lines sails the rivers of the United States — including the Mississippi, the Ohio, the Hudson, and the Columbia and Snake Rivers — so you can go on an adventure without having to board a flight. Accommodations like large staterooms with interior entrances, elevators to all decks, and spacious public spaces will be appreciated by older passengers. Dine whenever you like on local fare (like gumbo on the Mississippi or a boiled seafood dinner in the Northeast) and enjoy the daily cocktail hour. Local experts join your trip and share knowledge and history about the area you're traveling through making your trip as educational as it is relaxing. 

Ocean Cruises for Seniors

For ocean cruises, ships are usually larger and trips are longer, although it depends on the destination. Megaships have capacities of around 2,000 to 6,000 passengers; mid-size ships carry about 1,000-2,500; small ships can hold around 1,200 or less. Naturally, more dining options, entertainment, pools, and public areas are available on larger vessels. For seniors who are more comfortable remaining on the ship, there are many opportunities to keep busy, and the ship is a destination in itself. Travelers with limited mobility may choose shore visits carefully or decide to enjoy the view from afar as they take advantage of the ship's amenities and social scene.

Many oceangoing ships have accessible cabins and elevators, wheelchair-width doorways, and even special equipment to aid in boarding a smaller boat for shore excursions. Several have medical care and physicians aboard — a benefit for all passengers, not just seniors — for emergencies or illness. Most cruise companies request that they be advised of their passengers' special needs at least 45 days before departure to ensure that proper accommodations are arranged.

Oceangoing Cruise Lines

Holland America Line travels to South America, Antarctica, Alaska, Canada, New England, the Caribbean, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. A line preferred by many seniors, it offers staterooms with mobility assistive features such as space for wheelchairs and scooters, roll-in showers, grab bars, and lift systems to make tenders (smaller ships that go ashore in some ports) wheelchair accessible. Provisions are made on most ships for deaf or hearing-impaired passengers, as well.

Seabourn Cruise Line cruises the world from Australia and New Zealand, Asia, India, Africa, Antarctica, Alaska, and the Caribbean, to the Arctic, Northern Europe, and more. Staterooms specially designed for guests who require mobility assistance are available. Service animals are permitted (but not pets or therapy companions) as long as proper paperwork and vaccinations are current. Provisions are available for passengers who have limited eyesight or hearing, including large print or Braille menus and visual emergency alarms.

Azamara 's mid-sized ships sail to the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Their “Destination Immersion” experiences mean longer trips with more time in port and overnights onshore, as well as onboard programming designed around your specific destination. Azamara takes an extra step even before the cruise begins by offering assistance getting on and off the ship for boarding and shore excursions. With advance notice, Azamara will even make arrangements for transportation from the airport to the pier.

Silversea's small luxury ships range in size from 50 to 304 suites for travelers who prefer more intimate surroundings and atmosphere. Also, smaller ships can generally anchor closer to port cities, so disembarking is more convenient, and views are more interesting for those who stay on the ship. Your dedicated butler will help you with minutiae like unpacking and reservations, so you can just focus on relaxing. There's a low single supplement and "gentleman hosts" so you're never without a dance partner even if you're traveling solo. With gourmet meals, beverages (including premium spirits), gratuities, and activities all covered in the price, Silversea's cruises are not likely to attract children, which may be a plus for some seniors (as much as they might love their grandkids!).

Princess Cruises, considered by many to be one of the best cruise lines for seniors, offers many options: Various departure cities (including Florida for any local retirees), one-way or round-trip cruises, and Cruisetours that include extended land excursions. Rest assured that ships, destinations, and excursions are designed with accessibility in mind. Princess' crown jewel is their Alaskan cruises , during which passengers can meet sled dog puppies and handlers, hear from mountain climbers, fishermen, and loggers, and learn from experts about Alaskan wildlife without even leaving the ship. Most importantly, passengers can enjoy spectacular views from the comfort of the ship and marvel at sights unique to the 49th State.

Whether you pick an ocean sojourn or a river ride, cruises are some of the best ways to see the world. From the rivers of Europe to the blue-green waters of the Caribbean to U.S. trips you can board without ever getting on a plane, cruises take the convenience of a resort on the road. And as many cruise lines pay special mind to accessibility and inclusivity, they make traveling at any age (or solo) all the easier. 

If you’re a senior looking for some post-retirement fun or are a well-seasoned traveler in need of your next adventure, book a cruise today. 

Related Articles

5 Best Cruises for Seniors

One of the perks of living as a retiree is the luxury of traveling. Even if you’ve yet to retire, wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy cruises for seniors?

Cruises come in so many types — different destinations, durations, and activities aboard the ship as well as on land.  You want to pick a cruise that best fits you, especially if you’re opposed to cruises geared towards a younger generation or if you have medical or physical limitations.

You should understand cruise secrets that relate to every cruise before your choice. They are good to know but will not affect your desire to cruise. They will enhance your trip.

Table of Contents

Things you need to consider:

Before you even start scouting for the best cruises for seniors , here are a few questions you need to ask yourself first to help you narrow down your choices:

• – How many days do you intend to travel?
• – Are you traveling solo, with a partner, with family, or with a group?
• – What are you looking to gain from this trip?
• – Do you have any mobility issues? Any health conditions that need special assistance?
• – How much is your budget ?

Different ships offer different amenities, different services, and different facilities. Some cruise lines don’t offer the utmost convenience to passengers with disabilities, even though they have complied with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Yet, some cruise lines go as far as featuring hydraulic pool chairs in their pools as well as providing wheelchair accessibility. Some ships cater to multi-generation families while others are designed to exclusively accommodate adults.

And of course, there is always the problem of what to wear on a cruise.

However, with the wide selection of cruises available, picking the right one can seem overwhelming and a bit taxing. You don’t want to book a trip that falls below your expectations.

Information from other travelers on cruise message boards can give you the “inside information” before booking.

The following are some great cruises for seniors to consider.

Our Top 5 Picks for Best Cruises for Seniors:

1. viking cruises.

Viking Cruise Lines  is a privately held company. What’s interesting is that although this cruise line offers luxury service, they are listed in the class of small ships. As such, they can travel to the same locales as larger ships but can also go places where larger ocean lines cannot go.

Nevertheless, many of their guests commend the cruise line for its upscale service and amenities they provide. These services are included in the fare.

Among its many accolades, Viking Cruise ship Venus has been ranked #4 by  Condé Nast Traveller  in “The Best New Cruises in the World: 2022 Hot List”. It was also nominated #1 for  “The Top 10 Large-ship Ocean Cruise Lines in 2020”  by  Travel + Leisure .

Their cruises are also limited to passengers who are aged 18 and older.

The Fleet – Viking

Viking Cruises takes pride in its nine ships for ocean travel. All of their ships offer high-end amenities and services while small enough to be able to enter places larger ships would have to avoid.

Viking Cruises are known for its complimentary onshore excursions as well as its fantastic food experience. Known for large ship amenities on a small ship, most ships can accommodate 686 guests.

From the Viking Venus (built in 2021) grand amenities and exceptional food service to its unique itineraries and personal service on board, Viking certainly knows how to treat guests.

The ships choose certain ports so guests have the opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Guests describe their Viking experience as intimate and breathtaking. Their Infinity pool is perfect for any senior who seeks a moment of detoxification and relaxation.

The Destinations – Viking

Almost anywhere you would want to visit. The itineraries are spectacular. Decide what port you wish to visit and chances are Viking Cruise Lines goes there.  

Why You’ll Love It – Viking

• Accommodates guests with special needs and medical conditions
• Medical facility with onboard physicians
• Wheelchair accessible staterooms for guests
• with special needs and limited mobility
• Fantastic rates for singles
• Onboard cooking school program
• Spa services in the Nordic tradition
• Guest lecturers
• Resident historian for lectures and discussions
• Accommodates special dietary needs (to be arranged a minimum of 30 days prior to sailing)
• Complimentary onshore excursions

  Other Unique Offerings – Viking

• Amazing Evenings – experience local culture up close and personal
• Land Discoveries – exciting shore excursions led by the world’s top tour guides
• Nights and Cool Places – after-dinner tours that include after-hours museum visits and live performances and visits to arts, architecture, and scenery experienced best at night
• Guest Experiences – immersion into local culture including excursions to private ancestral homes, farms, historic estates, and villas that allow you to mingle with the locals

The Cost – Viking

• Gratuities are prepaid upon reservation
• Cruise rates are all-inclusive, they include shore excursions and specialty restaurants

Upcoming cruises – Viking:

What: 13- Night Atlantic Ocean Passage When: March 21, 2023, on board the Viking Star Where: Embark: Fort Lauderdale-St. Marten-Madeira- Mediterranean Sea- Debark: Barcelona Price: Starting at $3.499.00

What: 10-Night Classic Panama Canal Passage When: February 1, 2023, onboard Viking Star Where: Price: Starting at $3,349.00

In one word… Elegant. 

2. Celebrity Cruise Line

With over 34 years of cruise experience,  Celebrity Cruise Line  certainly understands travel in its truest sense. In particular, the Celebrity Apex, built in 2020, exemplifies their attention to detail.

Every nook and cranny of the ship showcases the luxury ship. The lounges are opulent, and the dining is superb. They have specialty dining, main dining, and complimentary dining. There should be no complaints concerning the dining.

They have an adult-only solarium pool if you prefer some romantic time with just you and your partner. The rooftop garden is a few steps away. In addition, the pool is surrounded by a deck whose focal point is the ocean views. 

The lounges are available to everyone on the ship. It is exciting to spend a few hours in the casino. Workouts are available in the gym and the machines are always beckoning you to work out. After a busy day, there is nothing like lounging in the spa to work up an appetite for the coming dinner.

The Fleet – Celebrity

Another premium cruise line, Celebrity Cruise Lines has 13 cruise ships as well as three Galapagos Expedition Series ships. 

There are 29 departure ports to choose from. After choosing your departure port, the hard part is determining where to cruise to because the choices are endless. 

The Destinations – Celebrity

Why You’ll Love It – Celebrity

• Shore excursions
• New accessible cabins & amenities
• Wheelchair accessible tender transfer system
• Widely enhanced enrichment programs
• The Culinary Arts Center – Daniel Boulud is their Global Culinary Brand Ambassador
• “Select Dining Anytime” dining option
• Flexible dining schedule
• Wine tasting & mixology
• Sidewalk Cafe / Exploration Center
• Movie Theater
• Laundry service

Other Unique Offerings – Celebrity

• World Cruise itineraries – extensive, varied, and length of up to 18 days
• Exotic itineraries (Amazon and Antarctica)
• Partnered with  Special Needs at Sea  for those guests with special needs
• Broadway show tunes
• Art tours & art galleries – Partnered with Park West Gallery

In one word… World-class. 

3. Royal Caribbean International

Now if you’re looking for really, really huge ships, then the Royal Caribbean International ’s fleet would certainly not disappoint you.  This cruise line offers a wide array of activities that will surely make your stay worthwhile and full of fun and adventure.

This line is a true match for active seniors. Also, it is the best fit if you wish to bring your entire family (kids and grandkids) because of the many different amenities and services they offer and there is always something to do for everyone.

You can eat at the Windjammer buffet or in the main dining room. There are many choices in addition to these two for food choices. You can choose a large ship like Allure of the Seas or travel on a smaller ship.

The Fleet -RC

The Royal Caribbean International cruise line operates 28 ships, which are categorized according to 6 different classes, quantum, voyager, Radiance, Vision, Oasis, and Freedom. Each of which has ships with names that end in “of the Seas.”

The Quantum of the Seas may have been built in 2014 but  Conde Nest Traveler  considers it to be one of the best cruise ships in the world. That says a lot for Royal Caribbean. The Quantum class is one of the largest classes of passenger ships in the world. It holds a maximum of 4905 passengers.

If you can not find something to do, the fault lies with you. There is always something going on while cruising on Royal Caribbean. 

The Experience – RC

Royal Caribbean ships are very large, and they offer several activities. There is no way you will ever run out of things to do during your voyage.

You can eat and eat and eat. Or you can drink and drink, and drink. In between, there is a surf simulator, rock climbing wall, sports court, movies, indoor pools, outdoor pools, theater, bars, and lounges to name a few. While you visit the casino, the kids can visit the adventure ocean youth area. 

Activities include an escape room, laser tag, music hall, entertaining shows, bumper cars, sky diving, and surf stimulators, to name a few.  on shore excursions. If you prefer you can just lay back and relax. Your waiter will bring you whatever you require. You have the choice, to relax or participate. Hey, just do both! 

The Destinations – RC

Why you’ll love it – rc.

• Wheelchair-accessible staterooms
• Rock-climbing wall
• Surf simulator
• Skydiving simulator
• Observation tower – a glass-walled capsule that reaches up to 300 ft above sea level
• Outdoor and indoor pools
• Fitness center
• Kids’ water park – wave pool
• Multiple whirlpools
• Indoor Solarium
• Broadway-style, The Royal Theater
• 2-story Royal Esplanade mall
• Library and card room
• Multi-purpose venues
• A lounge that offers a panoramic ocean view
• Large, indoor gym
• Basketball court
• Bumper Cars and Roller Skating Arena
• Circus school
• Casino and Music Hall

Other Unique Offerings – RC

Quantum of the Seas offers a Dynamic Dining experience as the ship does not have a main dining room; instead, the ship has several complimentary main restaurants along with 6 additional smaller complimentary dining venues, not to mention room service. It is one of the perfect cruises for seniors.

In one word… Dynamic. 

4. Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is luxury cruising and intimate. They are also known for their exquisite dining experiences as well as their hands-on culinary classes. Artisanal ice cream is offered daily to all guests. Their Lido buffet offers some of the best dining experiences at sea.

The Fleet – Oceania

Oceania is luxury cruising and intimate. Most of their mid-size ships have a maximum of 656 guests. These include the Regatta, the Insignia, Sirena, and the Nautica. Two ships that can accommodate 1238 guests are the Marina and the Riveria.  The ships that can accommodate 684 guests include Insignia, Nautica, Regatta, and Siren.

The Experience – Oceania

Aboard the Oceania ship, guests experience a more personal touch because of its high staff-to-guest ratio so guests are assured that they can be attended to at any given time. This cruise line is known for its impeccable service as well as its internationally acclaimed restaurants.

The Destinations – Oceania

Why you will love it – oceania.

• Spacious suites and staterooms, 70% with private verandas
• Coffee Cafes
• Afternoon Tea
• Cooking classes
• Art & craft lessons
• Access to boutique ports and seaside villages
• Enrichment programs
• The Culinary Center (cooking classes) – onboard
• Culinary Discovery Tours
• English-trained butlers for guests in suites

Other Unique Offerings – Oceania

• Dining at all specialty restaurants
• Soft drinks, bottled water, cappuccino, espresso, teas, and juices
• Shuttle service from the ship to the city center in many ports of call
• Access to Canyon Ranch SpaClub® private Spa Terrace
• Room service dining 
• Artist Loft enrichment center

Upcoming Cruises – Oceania

What: Stockholm to Oslo When: September 4-13, 2022 Duration: 9 days How much: Starting at $2,699.00

One word to describe it…  Intimate. 

5. Silversea Cruises

Owned by an Italian family, Silversea speaks luxury, excellence, and elegance. Silversea Cruise ships are small but don’t be fooled by their size since their ships are known for being ultra-luxury as they offer all-suite accommodations coupled with their staff’s exemplary service. With its eleven ships sailing to over 900 ports across seven continents, the Silversea cruise line is unique. Their fare is all-inclusive, including shore excursions.

The Fleet  – Silversea

The ships range from carrying 100 guests up to 608. In 2023 they will introduce the Silver Nova which will have a capacity of 728 passengers. Most suites face the ocean and there is no scarcity of staterooms with verandahs.

The Destinations include all 7 continents and places in between. 

Why You’ll Love It – Silversea

• All accommodations are suites (75% have private verandas)
• Butler service
• Sails up narrow waterways
• Open-seating dining
• Enrichment programs including guest lecturers and culinary and wine voyages
• Spa and fitness center
• Medical center onboard (doctor and nurse)
• Luxury Cruise on a smaller intimate ship

Other Unique Offerings – Silversea

All-inclusive cruise fare. All port charges, gratuities, and beverages are included in the cruise fare. No surprise additional fees.

The Cost – Silversea

The prices range from $3,300 for a 6-day cruise to $96,400 for a 131-days, depending on where you want to go and how long you want to be on a cruise.

Upcoming Cruises – Silversea

When: August 25, 2022, through September 1, 2022 (9 days)

Ports of Call: Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, Debark: Seward

How much: Starting at $3,750.00

One word to describe it…  Ultra-luxury. 

Cruises for seniors are a great way to travel. Explore other local cultures. Taste some fine cuisine. Behold magnificent scenery. Get all the pampering you deserve. There’s a whole lot more to experience even when we’re getting older.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have chosen your cruise, you still have some more work to do: planning , packing, passports, and more. There is more to do but the hard part is done. You are going on a cruise. Enjoy, but what is there not to enjoy?

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Best Cruises for Seniors

The best cruises for seniors are the ones that allow you to see every whimsical wonder of the world in the utmost comfort. All Princess ships – along with most destinations and excursions – are wheelchair accessible, allowing you to take part in the unforgettable experiences that each itinerary offers. As you embark on your best years yet, start crossing iconic items off your bucket list with relaxing cruises from Princess.

Alaska Cruises for Seniors

Thanks to the personalized service and ability to connect with other passengers during activities, every cruise with Princess can feel like your own senior cruise – especially in Alaska where you can experience all the excitement of exploration without the hassle of having to coordinate a jam-packed itinerary. From the comfort of your stateroom balcony or the upper deck, witness acrobatic humpback whales break the water’s surface and listen to the thunder of calving glaciers around you. If you wish to venture out into the Great Land, ride through cascading waterfalls and around snow-capped mountains on a relaxing railway tour . These fully restored locomotive trains can bring you back in time as you journey past the original Klondike Trail of 1898. With convenient departures from Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C., the best Alaska cruises for seniors are just a short flight – or drive – away.

World Cruises for Seniors

Nothing feels as rewarding as a well-deserved retirement. With more time to do the things you’ve always dreamed of, kiss your ordinary life goodbye and settle into the luxuries of a World Cruise . Departing both domestically and internationally, our global routes take you to emerald-colored volcanoes in Iceland and elephant orphanages in Sri Lanka – all over the span of several months. Every day invites you to cross new experiences off your travel wish list. Raise your wine-filled glass to the crimson sky and toast to adventure while surrounded by panoramic sunset views of Cape Town. Or, sit counter-side in a cozy Sicilian cottage-style home and learn secrets to famous Italian recipes while tasting the savory flavors of homemade tomato sauce and fresh-baked bread. Besides our roundtrip itinerary from Fort Lauderdale, our World Cruises were crafted as one-way journeys to help you maximize your time touring the decorated streets of Morocco by motorcoach or testing your luck at the glamorous Monte Carlo Casino.

Local Cruises for Seniors

Some of the greatest wonders of the world are right in your backyard. Embark on a seven-day roundtrip journey down the California Coast and visit scenic ports of call – like Monterey and Ensenada – without a long car ride. Sip your way through the Guadalupe Valley while savoring creamy, rich cheeses that perfectly accompany the fruitful flavors of your wine. Or, observe majestic penguins marching across the pebbled terrains and polar bears in their cotton-colored coats at the world-famous San Diego Zoo. After a day of leisurely exploration, unwind on board in a private cabana in The Sanctuary – a haven just for adults – where sounds of children are muted and you can peacefully reflect on your days’ activities.

Cruises for Single Seniors

Ignite your sense of wonder and romance on any of our world-class itineraries. From the sparkling evening lights of the Eiffel Tower to the charming gondolas of the Venice Canals, there are countless fairy-tale moments to find a suitor. Opportunities to meet like-minded individuals exist both on and off the ship. With daily cocktail parties and singles-only nights , dress to the nines and enjoy an evening full of hand-crafted drinks and inspiring dialogues. Whether floating through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea or sampling dazzling dishes in a culinary demonstration, you’ll feel like you’re on a senior citizen cruise as you meet an abundance of fellow retirees.

With Princess, it’s never too late to embark on an unforgettable journey . Whether you prefer domestic adventures or international expeditions, turn any of our cruise itineraries into the senior citizen cruise you've always dreamed of.

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‘Senior cruiser’ is a broad term for the over-55s that does not apply to everyone in the same way. A 60-year-old might not want to spend their holiday with people in their 80s and 90s.

Likewise, a fun-loving 70-year-old may prefer a party cruise rather than a quieter ship aimed at seniors. Cruising caters to this wide spectrum of mature travellers because the industry has a long history of entertaining differing age groups.

Generally, the longer the cruise, the older the clientele, as they have the time and money to travel for two weeks or more. A three-month round-the-world voyage will likely be full of retirees. Itineraries that focus on history and culture also tend to attract more seniors. Popular destinations include Alaska, Antarctica, Asia, Europe, the Panama Canal, transatlantic crossings (between the UK and New York) and circumnavigations of Australia and New Zealand. River and expedition cruises have a mix of demographics, but most will be aged in their 60s and 70s, with no or few children onboard.

Cruises for older travellers are not significantly different to cruises for younger people, but there are some subtle differences. Traditional activities include bingo, bridge, ballroom dancing classes, trivia, quoits, shuffleboard, lectures, wine-tasting and cooking classes. Entertainment is largely musical, with performances by big bands or classical duos, or Broadway-style productions in the ship’s theatre. Some ships will have a library, games room and casino, while others are proudly casino-free.

For people with mobility issues, accessible cabins can be found on most big ships, with more space for wheelchairs, walkers and walking frames, and specially equipped bathrooms.

Best cruise lines for seniors

Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises are good for all ages. To sail (probably) child-free, spend more on a luxury line such as Silversea, Seabourn, SeaDream, Regent Seven Seas, Windstar or Ponant. Premium brands such as Cunard, Azamara and Oceania Cruises are also less likely to have many children onboard. Adults-only ocean cruise lines include Viking, Saga Cruises (over-50s only) and Fiji’s Blue Lagoon Cruises. Based in the UK, P&O Cruises, as opposed to P&O Australia, has two adults-only cruise ships: the 1874-passenger Aurora and 2,094-passenger Arcadia. British line Marella Cruises’ 1,814-passenger Marella Explorer 2 is also adults-only and includes tips and a selection of drinks. All river cruising is suited to seniors; excellent choices include Travelmarvel, Avalon Waterways, Scenic, Viking, Emerald Cruises and APT.

Cruising seniors

Rosemary Riddell is 66 and is loving life as a cruising couple with her husband Mario , in their retirement. They’ve already ticked off five cruises and are sailing to the Pacific in March.

She says between the convenience, the atmosphere and the service, nothing makes for a better holiday than cruising.

“There’s no lugging around luggage, no dishwashing and cooking, all your entertainment is included, it’s the same bed every night. Everyone is up for a chat. There’s always friendly crews and fellow passengers,” she says.

In particular, Royal Caribbean not only makes the Riddells feel special, but also sets the couple up perfectly for romance and indulgence.

“Royal Caribbean, from day one, just spoils you. We don’t do suites or drink packages, but we love being pampered,” she says. “We enjoy food, our choices vary and it’s always delicious whether main dining or upgrading to Wonderland, Izumi or Giovannis.”

Highlights of their cruising life include: “A simple cruise from Sydney to Cairns is fantastic. Cruising from Barcelona to Venice was amazing especially the dawn sailing down the Grand Canal in Venice was a once-in-a-lifetime great experience.”

On board, Ms Riddell is a bingo-lover, with her husband equally adept at quizzes, and you can catch them anywhere from letting loose at disco nights to swerving on the dodgem cars.

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5 Best Cruise Lines for Senior Citizens

Erica Silverstein

• February 23, 2021

Which cruise line is best for seniors? That really depends on what kind of senior you are. Some retirees are ready for adventure, looking to conquer the world (or check off bucket-list destinations) with extensive travels and new experiences.

Others want to use their non-working years to pursue their hobbies or expand their minds. Still other older adults want to simply relax and enjoy not having a schedule to follow.

No matter what your vacation goals are, there’s a cruise line for you. And here’s a secret: The most popular cruises for seniors are often beloved by younger cruisers as well.

You won’t be stuck with a ship full of only old people — and you can travel with your family (if they have the vacation time!).

While any cruise line could be a great choice for seniors, here are our picks for the five best cruise lines for senior citizens.

1. Holland America

Holland America has long been a popular cruise line with seniors who are looking for a classy and classic cruise experience. The line’s midsize cruise ships prioritize simpler pursuits — live music, shuffleboard, fine dining — over excessive bling and crazy top-deck attractions.

You’ll find traditions here, such as ringing a bell to announce the beginning of dinner service and serving pea soup to chilly cruisers glacier-spotting in Alaska.

Seniors who want to explore the world while staying true to their favorite cruise line choose Holland America for its global itineraries, including annual world cruises and longer voyages.

Its Explorations Central department creates onboard activities to educate travelers about the culture, food, and attractions of their cruising region.

If Alaska is on your bucket list, Holland America has a long history in that area, and offers cruises on multiple ships each season. Its land-based pre- or post-cruise tours feature the line’s own wilderness resorts and Alaska Railroad cars, as well as routes into Canada’s Yukon that no one else offers.

The pace onboard might be leisurely, but that doesn’t equal boring. Holland America’s commitment to live music has earned it accolades for its trio of musical hotspots: Billboard Onboard with its rockin’ pianists, B.B. King’s Blues Club bringing the house down with Memphis-style R&B, and Lincoln Center Stage for classical melodies. Its passengers embrace the fact that you’re never too old to boogie down.

Foodies, or anyone who enjoys a good meal, can blend their own wines, attend cooking demos, and book reservations at several specialty dining venues and pop-up restaurants for a romantic evening of fine wine and gourmet food. And seniors who are tired of relying on their grandkids for tech help can pick up a few computer-based tricks at the onboard Microsoft Studios workshops.

For anyone traveling solo, Holland America pulls out all the stops. Its newest ships feature a handful of single cabins priced for one, and the activities staff arranges get-togethers for solo travelers to meet, mingle, and enjoy activities with a group.

2. Viking (Ocean)

One of the newer cruise ventures out there, Viking’s ocean ships have quickly become a favorite among the senior cruiser crowd. Mature travelers appreciate the line’s commitment to destination immersion, variety of dining options, well-thought-out cabins, and lack of up-charges.

For seniors on the go, Viking is all about the destination, rather than oodles of leisurely sea days. You get to explore a new port nearly every day, with one or more included shore excursions in every port.

Cruisers can pay extra for extra-special experiences, but don’t have to shell out a dime on tours if they don’t wish to. Itineraries also feature at least one overnight in  port, so passengers can dine at a local restaurant or take in a cultural performance in the evening.

Every ship in the fleet was custom-built for the line and they’re all nearly identical, so loyal passengers won’t find too many surprises cruise to cruise. All cabins are spacious, with thoughtful touches such as king-size beds, spacious showers, heated bathroom floors, complimentary movies on demand, and balconies in every room.

Viking is also committed to a more-inclusive cruise fare. In addition to the free shore excursion in every port, the line includes Wi-Fi, all onboard restaurants and room service, its thermal suite, self-serve laundry facilities, and many beverages (specialty tea and coffee, bottled water, and wine, beer, and soda with lunch and dinner) in its fares. Frugal folks will appreciate the incredible value they get for their money.

Onboard entertainment is low-key, but organized with Viking’s target audience in mind. Learn more about your cruising destination from a resident historian, or watch a TED talk. Enjoy live music in public lounges, an intimate musical show in the Torshavn lounge, or a rockin’ Beatles show on the pool deck. Some ships even have planetariums.

If you’re thinking about a multigenerational cruise with your grandkids, think again. Viking has a no kids policy, and all passengers must be 18 or older.

RELATED: 5 Things I Love About Viking Sky

Some luxury lines nail it with fine dining, attentive service, well-appointed onboard spaces, and leisurely itineraries…but lack variety of entertainment because the ships are simply too small. Crystal is one of the best luxury cruise lines for seniors because it hits that right note between total pampering and a big variety of things to do.

Crystal’s ships are a little larger than its high-end competitors, which translates into more spaces for dining and activity options. On one night, you might choose among the main Broadway-inspired show in the theater, a comedian or cabaret in a smaller show lounge, a live duo hosting Irish Pub Night in the bar, or even a film in the movie theater. Entertainment is a focus for the line, not an afterthought, and Crystal makes the most of the space it has.

Itineraries hit plenty of exotic ports, but make sure to include plenty of sea days for enjoying bridge workshops, mahjong games, ballroom dance classes (with gentleman hosts to squire single ladies), guest speakers, golf clinics…or a lie-in and lounge-about leisurely day. Spend an afternoon at the spa, and you’ll feel like you’ve found the fountain of youth.

Choices are also plentiful when it comes to dining. You’ll become a sushi convert at Nobu’s onboard restaurant, stuff yourself silly with meat at the Brazilian churrascaria, or try it all with family-style dining at Silk Kitchen. Enophiles can book intimate, gourmet wine dinners in the  Vintage Room. Even the all-day snacks in the Bistro and the burgers at Trident Grill are a cut above.

Crystal has branched out into river, yacht, and expedition cruising, so seniors who like to change things up can try different types of ships and itineraries without sacrificing the Crystal quality they’ve come to know and love. River ships ply the Rhine and Danube, the intimate yacht luxuriates in the Greek Isles and Seychelles, and the expedition ship adventures to the poles. Combine that with annual world cruises, and Crystal has multiple ways of helping you check off those bucket list destinations.

4. Princess

Retirees who want to vacation with their children and grandchildren, or who want big-ship choices without the frenetic pace of the mega-ship behemoths, should take a look at Princess. Its ships are large (but not ​ too ​large) and have cabin, activity, and dining options for a variety of budgets and interests.

The patriarch of the family can book into a spacious suite to host family gatherings and enjoy VIP perks, while younger relatives can book rooms with a smaller price tag, or that can sleep a family of four without breaking the bank. Seniors can enjoy a cooking class or casino spree, escape to the adults-only Sanctuary sun deck, and even renew their vows. (Princess, after all, is the Love Boat cruise line.) Meanwhile, the grandkids can make friends at the Camp Discovery kids club, hit the pool, or play games on the digital screens around the ship.

At night, the whole family can come together for dinner and a show. Celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary at the steakhouse or Italian trattoria, go casual at the buffet or with a pizza dinner, or meet up in the main dining room where the menu can accommodate everyone’s tastes and dietary restrictions.

You won’t find rock-climbing walls or waterslides on Princess ships, though evening movies on the pool deck, complete with popcorn, are a popular after-dinner event. By day, you’ll find plenty of activities — from themed parties to animal demos and live performances — taking place in its piazza-style atrium.

At night, main stage shows feature the talents of Jim Henson and Stephen Schwartz — as well as some of your talented shipmates in The Voice of the Ocean. (Though not every show is on every ship, so consider that before booking if it’s an important option for your family.)

With nearly 15 ships, Princess goes pretty much wherever you want to cruise. The line is well established in Alaska, gets rave reviews for its Japan sailings, and offers plenty of North American options to Mexico (its original Love Boat route), the Pacific Coast, Hawaii, and Canada/New England. That’s in addition to the staple cruise itineraries in the Caribbean (great for fun in the sun with family) and Europe (for sightseeing with ease with the grandkids).

Do you long for the transatlantic crossings of yore, with day after day spent gazing out at the seemingly endless sea and your only concern is whether you hit the shuffleboard deck before or after lunch?

Would you prefer an ocean liner to a cruise ship, especially from a cruise line with a longstanding history of ocean crossings and even military service? If you’re that type of senior, Cunard is the perfect line for you.

Cunard stands out from other cruise lines for its commitment to transatlantic cruises. It offers weeklong cruises between Southampton (near London) and New York for most of the year. There are no port stops in between, allowing travelers to get maximum enjoyment of the ship and its onboard activities.

And Cunard goes all out with shipboard activities, but ones that appeal to older adults. In addition to ballroom dance classes and fitness classes, travelers can enjoy fencing and watercoloring workshops.

Seniors who’d rather expand their mind can attend lectures by guest experts, educational shows at QM2’s first-at-sea planetarium, and learn iPad and computer skills. Look for special themed cruises, such as fashion, literature, and genealogy sailings if you want to explore an interest in depth during your week at sea.

Tradition is important to cruisers on this oh-so-British line, and one signature Cunard event is daily afternoon tea, complete with live music and scones topped with cream and jam.

Another is the line’s formal evenings; as in the old movies, you’ll need to don your best gown or tuxedo and escort your partner around the ballroom dance floor after dinner. Sailing solo? Don’t fret; gentleman hosts are on hand to whirl you about the Queens Room.

Another throwback is Cunard’s separate dining rooms for guests in Princess and Queens Grill suites. For the ultimate luxury, book one of the top-of-the-line suites (some are lavish duplexes) and you’ll enjoy the services of a personal butler, a private sun deck, priority boarding, and a reserved table at the most exclusive dining venues onboard.

Just because the line is British, though, doesn’t have to mean it’s stuffy and formal. Each ship has an onboard pub, offering classic English pub fare and games, such as trivia quizzes and cheering on your favorite sport team. You’ll find plenty of fun on the outer decks, such as paddle tennis and deck quoits, and outdoor parties at night.

Cunard has three ships, and two of them sail round-the-world voyages during the winter months. So seniors who want to explore the Mediterranean or chase the sun to the Caribbean can live out all their travel dreams without switching lines.

READ MORE: The 7 Best Lines for a Family Reunion Cruise

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Bucket List Cruises for Seniors Over 60

Last updated: March 30th, 2022

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Add to your bucket list one of these best cruises for seniors over 60 that will take you to fabulous destinations around the world, help you create family memories, and have you pampering yourself on vacation like never before.

Multigenerational Cruises

Multigenerational cruises are a great way for seniors to bond with their children and grandchildren. Whether you’re the matriarch or patriarch of your family, it’s time to start planning this trip that your entire family will remember for the rest of their lives.

Cruises for seniors over 60 who are traveling with children and grandchildren should have a wide range of activities to appease all ages. This will help to get all your family members excited for the cruise, too.

Choose cruise ships with kids and teen clubs as well as separate adult-only areas on the ship. An onboard spa is great for the ladies (or men) of the family to bond while getting a rejuvenating massage or other treatment, while a pool will get the kids excited. And that’s just the start. There are so many different things to do on a cruise ship that there’s no end in sight for the fun your family can have on this very special bucket list cruise for seniors.

Read: Senior Citizen Cruises

Multi-Week Cruises for Seniors Over 60

If you’re retired, you have the luxury of time since you’re not hustling to get to work every day and you no longer have to request time off or only get one week of vacation at a time. Instead, you can sail away for weeks on end. We offer itineraries that are two to three weeks long and take you around some of the most exciting and exotic locations in the world.

Get away for 15 nights on a Best of India & Southeast Asia cruise that takes you to the wonders of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore as well as the vibrant cities along the western India, such as Mumbai and Goa.

Another one of our longer bucket list cruises for seniors over 60 to add to their repertoire is an Arabian Sea and Suez Canal cruise. Experience the most beautiful parts of the Middle East before sailing through Egypt along the Suez Canal and finishing your cruise in the Mediterranean.

Read: Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt

If you’ve always dreamed of South America, take a 15-night Chile to San Diego cruise that visits ports of call along the western edge of South and Central America. Extend your vacation even longer with a fun City Stay in San Diego during which you can explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter, dine at beachfront restaurants, and enjoy the antics of animals at the San Diego Zoo.

Dreaming of Europe? Get away to Spain, Italy, and the Canary Islands on a  transatlantic cruise  itinerary that sails through the region while your ship travels between Florida and Rome.

A 15-night transatlantic cruise typically starts with seven days crossing the Atlantic Ocean before arriving to Tenerife, where you can easily tick off your list of things to do in the Canary Islands . You will spend two more days at sea before stopping in Mediterranean ports like Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Provence, Florence, and Rome.

For an itinerary that will truly let you unwind and relax, book our 19-night Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Hawaii cruises. You’ll sail across the Pacific between Sydney or Melbourne in Australia, and Honolulu, Hawaii, stopping at the beautiful islands of French Polynesia along the way plus have ports of call in New Zealand.

Cruises For Seniors Over 60 Who Have Been There, Done That

If you’ve already explored the ancient sites of Rome, sailed into the caldera of Santorini, marveled at the architectural curves of the Taj Mahal, and enjoyed a show in the Sydney Opera House, then it’s time to get off the beaten path a bit more with one of these unforgettable bucket list cruises for seniors over 60. Here are a couple ideas:

If you missed the era of backpacking through Southeast Asia as a youth, fear not – you can still explore the wonders of Southeast Asia, but don’t need to worry about rowdy hostels. Instead you’ll be exploring this gorgeous region of the world in style and comfort when you cruise there. Our Southeast Asia cruise itineraries  sail to beloved Southeast Asia destinations like Halong Bay (via Hanoi) and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, and alluring Singapore.

Read: Best Beaches in Phuket

Looking for somewhere totally off the grid? Head to the Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador. You’ll sail through an ecological wonderland unlike anywhere else on earth, where endemic species are numerous, sea mammals swim curiously and unafraid alongside humans, and Galapagos tortoises live to be 100 (or older!).

Turn this into even more of an enviable bucket list cruise by booking your Galapagos cruise on  Celebrity Flora , the new all-suite ship that was specifically designed for the Galapagos Islands.

If you haven’t made it to Machu Picchu yet, you can also add a land excursion to Machu Picchu into your  Galapagos Vacation Package .

Cruise in an Edge-Class Suite

Bucket list worthy cruises for seniors over 60 don’t have to be just destination related. Consider the mode of transportation as well and where you’ll be residing on the ship.

On our new  Celebrity Edge ship  (and subsequent Edge-class ships) you’ll be able to travel like you never have before by booking yourself into one of our incredible suites, like the Edge Villas or Iconic Suites.

The incredible Edge Villas have a loft bedroom over the spacious living area. Every part of the suite overlooks the ocean from the two-story windows. Step outside onto your expansive terrace where you will find a plunge pool and comfortable lounge seating. Making the Edge Villas even more spectacular is that they have a second entrance that connects right into the Retreat, an exclusive area just for Suite Class guests with its own pool area, bar, and sun deck, and lounge.

If you’d prefer a luxurious suite that doesn’t have stairs, check into one of the Iconic Suites, the largest suites on board which have a massive outdoor living space with a sun bed, hot tub, and lounge seating.

Read: Cruises for Seniors With Disabilities

Book One of These Best Cruises for Seniors Over 60

Start crossing items off your bucket list on one of these special cruises for seniors over 60. Whether you’re traveling alone, with your partner, or with a dozen family members, you’ll be on your way to a spectacular vacation full of memories you’ll treasure. To book, browse  cruise itineraries here  and then book online using the easy to navigate online booking platform, or call us at 1-888-751-7804 and one of our helpful cruise experts can assist you.

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Best Cruises for Single Seniors in 2024

Overall Rating:

What Are Singles Cruises for Seniors?

If you’re a senior who enjoys solo travel and meeting new people, you might want to book a singles cruise. These adventures can be a great way for older adults to enjoy traveling alone at surprisingly affordable prices. Beyond singles cruises, you can also look into general cruise lines that cater to the older set.

Pro Tip: To learn more about my favorite cruises, read my guide to the best cruises for seniors .

The Advantages of Singles Cruises for Seniors

Singles cruises for seniors offer many benefits, such as discounted room prices, wine tasting, and onboard entertainment –– not to mention plenty of opportunities to meet other singles.

Less planning

Since most singles cruises are all-inclusive, you don’t have to worry about last-minute itinerary planning. Most singles cruises provide a day-by-day itinerary with information on daily activities, events, and excursions. For those who want an adventurous time without having to plan, a cruise is a great option. Personally, planning travel makes me anxious, so I love handing the process over to the professionals.

Meeting new people

A singles cruise is designed to cater to people of all ages who are looking to meet new people. If you’re recently divorced or looking for a new relationship, a singles cruise offers an opportunity to meet others in a similar position. These cruises will often have programs like speed dating and dances to help facilitate interactions. Plus, some cruises cater to singles specifically, giving you a discount or “single supplement.”

Courses and events

Singles cruises offer plenty of great activities, such as wine tastings, chef-prepared meals, dancing, pool parties, concerts, and group exercises. All of this helps make it easier to meet new people.

• Viking Ocean Cruises : Best Overall Value
• Singles Travel International : Made for Singles
• Silversea : Luxurious and All-Inclusive
• Tauck World Discovery : Great Expeditions
• Holland America Line : 35-Day Trips
• Solos Holidays : Social Activities
• Cunard : Great Onboard Entertainment
• Riviera River Cruises : Great for Solo Travelers
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises : Discounts Available

1. Viking Ocean Cruises - Best Overall Value

What we like most:.

• Wide range of trips
• Luxurious suites
• Excellent customer service
• Risk-free guarantee

Cost: $799+ per person

Viking offers river, ocean, and expedition voyages on all seven continents. I could choose from a variety of cruise destinations, including Scandinavia, Northern Europe, Asia, and Australia. As the world’s leading small-ship cruise line, Viking Ocean Cruises has a fleet of new, state-of-the-art ocean ships, ranging from Viking Star to Viking Saturn. Each ocean ship can carry up to 930 adult guests for an intimate experience and longer overnight stays at ports. With so many adults on a boat, it was easy for me to meet people, especially at meal times.

To book a cruise, I simply visited the Viking website and selected the region, departure date, and duration of my stay. If you’re looking to travel to Scandinavia and Northern Europe for a duration of 12 days, you can choose your sail date and include a promo code to get the best deals. You can also select the number of guests and specify the type of stateroom or suite you would like to book.

Viking Ocean Cruises offers a risk-free guarantee for guests, allowing you to change your cruise date up to 14 days before your departure. Viking will also waive any change fees. Other features of this cruise include spacious veranda staterooms and suites. In addition to a variety of destinations, Viking Ocean Cruises offers special savings on both airfare and cruise costs.

FYI: Cruises aren’t the only way to meet that special someone. Consider trying one of the best dating websites for seniors .

2. Singles Travel International - Made for Singles

• Made specifically for singles
• Worldwide destinations
• Meet-and-greets onboard
• Online community

Cost: $7,173 average, but ranges from $2,398 to $14,779

With affordable (comparatively speaking) cruises starting at $2,398 per person, Singles Travel International is a tour agency that offers fun cruise destination trips for single seniors over the age of 50. With several destination options ranging from Antarctica, Africa, and South America, seniors can enjoy a fun solo getaway at affordable prices.

With over 28 years in business, Singles Travel International offers great savings on single supplements, free membership, and fun singles cruise meet-and-greets and cocktail hours. Other benefits include an option to find a travel companion and ongoing promotions and discounts.  For example, when I was booking my trip, I could’ve saved thousands by getting a premium membership. This is a good option if you think you want to take cruises more regularly.

Plus, when I signed up for a free membership, I got a $50 discount on my first vacation and free access to its online community for senior singles over the age of 50.

3. Silversea - Luxurious and All-Inclusive

• Made specifically for seniors
• Generous all-inclusive options
• Onboard spas and fitness centers
• Gourmet dining

Cost: $3,600+ per person

If you’re looking to pamper yourself with a luxury cruise, Silversea provides amazing shore excursions and all-inclusive service covering 900 destinations. Although pricing is on the high side, you can still find plenty of great deals on both airfare and transfers. With Silversea, you can travel and explore new destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Asia, and Alaska –– all while enjoying the views from your luxury oceanview suite.

Booking as a solo traveler, I received a 25 percent single supplement on some voyages, which means a 25 percent discount. Not every cruise line offers this discount, as each room can support two people, typically.

You can choose from all-inclusive cruises or special Silversea Expeditions luxury cruises if you’re looking to travel to remote regions. Some of the benefits of choosing Silversea include complimentary beverages, gourmet dining, shore excursions, and educational lectures on the places you’re visiting. As someone who loves to learn, I found this trip both educational and fun, not to mention delicious.

With Silversea’s all-inclusive offerings, you’ll also enjoy personalized services with butler service for all its suites. Additionally, you’ll have access to a luxurious spa and fitness center, along with a beauty salon and acupuncture services for older adults with arthritis or back pain. It was lovely to have a spa to come home to after a long day exploring!

4. Tauck World Discovery - Great Expeditions

• Extensive guided land tours
• River and ocean cruises
• Fine dining
• Panoramic sun decks

Cost: $3,990+ per person

Looking for a solo getaway? Tauck World Discovery offers solo cruise adventures for older adults. Consider booking a solo trip on one of its European River Cruises, with prices starting at $4,390 per person for eight- to 25-day tours. In addition to river and small-ship cruises, Tauck offers guided land tours in destinations like Africa, Canada, Israel and Jordan, and Latin America.

We recommend solo travelers book one of the European River Cruises. For example, I was interested in the longest, Grand European Cruise, a 25-day cruise that hits Amsterdam, Budapest, Vienna, Nuremberg, Regensburg, and Koln. It starts at $13,990. I like this cruise because it will allow me to see nine European countries and stay three nights in Bucharest. Altogether, I am going to see these countries:

• Netherlands

Other features and benefits of booking a cruise through Tauck is that you’ll enjoy unlimited complimentary beverages, fine dining, and amenities such as a fitness center, spa, and sun deck featuring panoramic views of the river. For the European River Cruises, some of the destinations include the Danube, Douro, and Rhone rivers.

5. Holland America Line - 35-Day Trips

• Trips up to 133 days long
• Helpful smartphone app
• Onboard casinos
• Wine tastings

Cost: $499+ per person

With 149 years in business, Holland America Line offers 19 cruise destinations with over 473 ports. If you’re looking for an affordable cruise option, I recommend traveling with Holland America Line. Its Worry-Free Promise program gives guests the chance to change their cruise plans or cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure if you or a travel party tests positive for COVID-19.

Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 classic ships with destinations and ports in Alaska, Europe, the Panama Canal, Asia, and more. You can choose from seven- to 133-day cruise trips, depending on your destination and travel needs. The longest cruise goes from pole to pole, leaving and departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. If you’re a single senior, you’ll love the amenities the cruise ship offers, such as classical cruise ship music, theatrical shows, concerts, and other live entertainment.

Some of the additional features of this cruise line include spacious suites and staterooms, along with unique dining options and a casino. You can also use its free mobile-friendly app to personalize your cruise experience and browse your planned activities for the day. Depending on the cruise ship you choose, you can also participate in wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.

Did You Know: Before you head for the sea, be sure to have your travel insurance in order.

6. Solos Holidays - Social Activities

• Caters to solo travelers
• Great onboard entertainment
• Spacious rooms
• Ample social activities

Cost: $261+ per person

Solos Holidays caters to solo travelers who enjoy going to exciting destinations while meeting new people. Based in London, this company focuses on “singles holidays” and offers a wide selection of destinations across the globe. Some of the cruise destinations include Europe, Australia, Asia, and Africa.

I recommend going on A Taste of the Fjords. I departed from London and spent seven nights in Norway (prices start at $1,420 per person). On the ship, dining and entertainment options were plentiful, and the destinations — Bergen, Flam, and Stavanger —  were beautiful and picturesque. Plus, as a single, it was nice being with a group of eight and a tour leader, as I didn’t feel lonely. This is one of the more affordable cruise options, which is always appreciated.

7. Cunard - Great Onboard Entertainment

• Low starting prices
• Orchestra performances
• Onboard libraries and gyms
• Planetarium shows

Cost: $699+ per person

Cunard provides luxury cruise services across the globe. In fact, in the past, it has had esteemed guests like Elizabeth Taylor and Charlie Chaplain onboard its ships. Depending on the type of vacation and travel experience you’re looking for, you can anticipate spending around $699 per person for an English cruise to up to $2,199 per person for a Caribbean cruise. This is incredibly affordable, as cruises can cost tens of thousands of dollars, which is not in my budget. Here are the prices I saw when I looked in October 2023:

When you book a cruise with Cunard, you’ll enjoy amenities such as afternoon tea, live orchestra performances, and events moderated by prolific speakers. In addition to spacious open decks and Broadway-style shows, seniors will enjoy a packed itinerary of events and activities.

Other features include twice-daily turndown services, concierge services, personal butlers, great dining options, and complimentary room service. Guests can also enjoy group dance classes, planetarium shows, and access to the library and gym facilities.

We recommend choosing one of its seven-day transatlantic cruises onboard its Queen Mary 2. The best part is you’ll have access to live performances from the Royal Shakespeare Company, along with various accommodations to make your stay enjoyable. Cruises start at $849 per person for a Christmas 2023 voyage.

8. Riviera River Cruises - Great for Solo Travelers

• Luxurious amenities
• Niche destinations
• Flexible trips

Cost: $899+ per month

Riviera River Cruises offers several river cruises in Europe and other destinations around the world. Solo travelers can expect to pay around $899 to $5,479 for longer-duration trips.

If you enjoy solo traveling without sharing a room, then we’d recommend the Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg River Cruise for Solo Travelers. This eight-day cruise starts at $2,449 per person and features eight guided tours, a live classical quartet recital, daily meals, and five-star services. For this particular cruise, you’ll embark in Cologne and visit destinations like the Rhine Gorge and the historic Mainz port. Plus, there are departures aimed at solo travelers specifically, which start at $2,749 per person. Unfortunately, there’s no single supplement, but there are also no additional fees; I paid the listed price, which was a welcome departure from other cruise lines and their many hidden fees.

When you choose Riviera River Cruises, you’ll enjoy amenities and features like daily morning and afternoon tea and coffee, along with full daily meals, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the option to extend your cruise. Other benefits include access to an expert cruise director and concierge services to help make for an enjoyable stay.

Pro Tip: To start planning your next trip, be sure to check out my rundown of the best travel destinations for seniors .

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Discounts Available

• Over 450 ports
• Great discounts
• Spacious accommodations
• Tours up to 21 days in length

Cost: $6,074+ per person

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers all-inclusive luxury travel around the world, with over 450 ports of call. Each ship can carry up to 750 guests, with destinations in Africa, Arabia, Alaska, Asia, and the Mediterranean. The average price with the single supplement ranges from $6,074 per person from Cape Town to Rio De Janeiro to as high as $12,562 for an 18-day cruise from Sydney to Singapore.

Not every cruise line offers discounted prices for singles, so although these prices are on the higher side, they’re a good option for singles who want a more luxurious experience and have the funds for it.

Some of the benefits of choosing a cruise from Regent Seven Seas Cruises include all-inclusive fares, free open bars, and unlimited beverages, along with free access to specialty restaurants. You’ll also receive free unlimited internet and up to a 50 percent discount for a reduced single supplement for select suite categories.

Bottom Line

If you’re single and want to meet new people, a cruise can be a great way to step out of your comfort zone. Many cruises cater to solo travelers and single seniors, providing ample opportunities to participate in mixers, galas, and other activities aboard a ship. Many cruise lines will often offer great discounts for those who book one-passenger trips, so be on the lookout for those deals throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. There are many singles cruises for seniors to book throughout the year.

Cruise lines that don’t allow kids include Viking Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and P&O Cruises.

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here

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Best Cruise Lines for Older Adults and Couples

Whether it’s hitting the road with our little trailer or boarding a flight to a new city, I love traveling. One of my very favorite ways to see the world is via a cruise because you only have to unpack once, yet travel to many locations. Cruising is a super popular way to travel, and for understandable reasons. You have all of the amenities of an all-inclusive resort with the added benefit of seeing multiple destinations throughout your cruise itinerary.

My favorite part about a cruise is that you can do as much or as little as you want. If I find myself in the mood for relaxing, I can sign up for a day at the spa, read a book, or gaze off into space and relax. If I want to have a day of fun, cruises are absolutely full of shore excursions and lots of on-board activities, from Bingo to casinos to yoga to comedy shows. Most also have a gym so you can stay on top of your exercise routines.

There are many cruise lines out there, and they range from luxury ships that offer exquisite cuisine and pampering to more affordable trips that are a little easier on the wallet. It can be a little overwhelming when you’re trying to decide which one to book. My husband and I have taken many cruises over the years and have grown quite fond of several cruise lines.

Before we get into discussing our favorite cruise lines, I thought I would share some other cruise posts you might like:

• Essentials to Pack for a Cruise
• Cruise Wear for Women Over 50: What to Pack
• What to Pack for a Riverboat Cruise

We used this cruise line when we took our riverboat cruise down the Danube in 2019. Since Viking operates both ocean cruises and river cruises, they have over 90 ships in their fleet and offer a wide array of destinations and cruise lengths. This line is perfect for my husband and me since it’s aimed at passengers that are over 50 years. In fact, all Viking ships are adults-only, and nobody under the age of 18 is allowed on board. Viking focuses on cultural enrichment, so passengers get more time to experience the local culture and explore historical sites.

Seabourn is a leader in luxury cruising with destinations around the world. You’ll love their delicious cuisine and wonderful service. They even have a new vessel that is designed for polar areas like Antarctica, which would be such a blast! They offer hand-selected itineraries that take you beyond the reach of larger ships. Seabourn’s intimate ships have a club atmosphere and one of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry. I love the idea of that because being crowded together isn’t my idea of fun. There’s also never a tab to pick up because complimentary fine wine and spirits are available on board at all times.

Windstar Cruises

We’ve done several cruises on the Windstar Cruise Line and are huge fans. We like their smaller ships which hold less than 200 passengers. By breakfast the day after boarding, every crew member had memorized our names, so we felt like we were guests on a private sailing yacht!

I love that their smaller ships don’t have food court-type dining. Everything is in a dining room and feels special. You’ll eat like a king (or queen) on board because the onboard menus are designed by Michelin-star chefs and are included in your cruise fare. I can attest that I never arrive home lighter than when I left.

These upscale and intimate ships are a little larger than Windstar’s but still small in comparison to some of the larger cruise lines. Although there are only seven ships in their fleet, there is no shortage of amazing destinations. Oceana visits more than 450 ports.

On board, you’ll discover beautiful amenities and a country club-esque ambiance where you can spend your days at sea reading in their gorgeous libraries, doing wine tastings, or taking art workshops or cooking classes. This cruise from Reykjavik to Oslo looks wonderful. They have so many great destinations and itineraries to choose from, including Alaska, Australia, and New Zealand, the Greek Islands, Tahiti and the South Pacific, and the Panama Canal!

Reading about all these amazing destinations has given me serious wanderlust! Do you like cruising? What’s your favorite cruise line and destination? I think our favorite so far has been the Baltic Sea into St Petersburg. I’m so glad we got to experience that while we could.

75 Comments

Oh Jennifer, my favorite subject – Cruising! Don’t you just love the tranquility of being on the water. I could talk for hours about my experiences and check itineraries/prices at least 2x per week and my coffee table is littered with cruiseline brochures (they arrive almost daily). I’d literally live aboard a ship given the opportunity and funds. Embarking on my 8th ocean cruise (all in the past 3 years) next month to the Western Caribbean. Living in SE Florida has it’s perks. Drive and Sail. Personally, I like the Retreat experience on Celebrity and won’t book any trips unless at least a Sky Suite is available (prefer the Royal suites on the smaller revolutionized M class ships with the jacuzzi tubs on the balcony but $$$$ are up there now in line with Regent, Seabourne and Oceania’s penthouse suites). Celebrity’s personalized service aboard, exclusive areas for dining, lounging and swimming (Retreat Guests only) and the butlers make for maximum enjoyment while kicking back and relaxing. Is as though it’s a ship within a ship resort experience, even on their 3 floating cities (Edge Class). Retreat staff know your name after day 2 or 3. Still prefer Seabourne though when my budget allows. Those smaller ships, excellent cusine, better ports with longer stays and the outstanding service beats all imho. (Haven’t sailed Regent yet though). I’m scheduled on a Viking river cruise next year – Bucharest to Budapest. 1st time on Viking. Thinking of booking a b2b by flying to Barcelona and cruising the mediterranean while in Europe. Exciting prospects.

I appreciate reading your take on these cruise lines. My husband and I were just talking about booking one again. We had a Viking River cruise booked that was canceled twice due to Covid. One reason we chose Viking was the more casual dress code. What do you know about dress codes on these other lines?

My husband and are cruise lovers, too. We’ve been on 10 cruises with Azamara. It’s an all inclusive line of 4 ships with less than 700 passengers. It’s the staff and itineraries that keep us coming back. It’s like stepping into nice relaxing hotel. We’re taking an Italy intensive cruise in June with friends we met on a Panama cruise in 2018. Can’t wait!!

Have sailed on most major lines. Favorites wer a European cruise on Celebrity (concierge class), and Princess to Tahiti on one their smaller ships they bought from Renaissance Cruises. Taking Viking Sky from Barcelona to Florence this September. Will be a new experience. Last cruise was on one of the Norwegian mega ships. While it has everything, it also has 5,000 people. Never again!

Good Morning Jennifer, Like many of your readers, we love cruising too. We have only cruised with Oceania 10 cruises in all. Our last one was in November from Barcelona to Maimi. We had a ball. Still have our CPAP cruise What’s App group. With 5 couples ( at least one in each pair uses a CPAP) LOL. One of the couples even cruised with us 10 years ago! We keep in touch on FB. Such fun to meet so many lovely people. I am also in contact with some of the entertainment crew FB and Instagram. Oceania also makes a point of learning your names and preferences. My stylist swears by Windstar and it sounds fantastic too. I used many of your packing and cruise tips to get ready for my November cruise. Thank you Happy sailing

My husband and I have done two Viking River cruises…the Rhine and the Danube and loved them both. We’re looking forward to doing a Viking ocean cruise.

We have been cruising for decades. We are going on a river cruise here in the USA this month. I’m looking forward to seeing how it differs from ocean cruising. The examples you cite here are all top-end and therefore very expensive. The more mainstream cruise lines can also deliver a great trip. I’ll put in a good word for Holland America Lines.

Jennifer, You have ignited my wanderlust with this post, along with all the other travel posts that are linked! I think the anticipation of the trip for weeks or months before you go, plus the planning of a travel wardrobe are a big part of the fun. I have mistakenly used my last copy of your very helpful packing list. Would you mind linking it again? Thank you for all the armchair fun! ~Valla

Our introduction to River cruising was the Viking Grand European tour in July of 2019, Amsterdam to Budapest on the Rhine, Main and Danube. It was a fantastic trip, and we’re so grateful we went when we didn’t have to worry about any virus other than the usual varieties. The ship has to pass through dozens of locks, as you know. Midway through our trip we learned a commercial ship had run into a lock and made it impassable. Because Viking runs tours on each route from both directions, all we had to do was switch ships with passengers on the Budapest to Amsterdam route and continue on our way. Viking paid for everyone’s lunch in that day’s destination while they transferred our bags to the new ship, where we had the same cabin. The worst inconvenience we suffered was having to repack—small potatoes that made a big impression!

That’s amazing! Viking floods that route with ships; it’s such a beautiful place to see.

Hi, Jennifer: Question for you here. Great column and commentary btw. I would love to take a cruise, but am hesitant because of my significant other who is disabled and can only walk short distances without using a transport chair. Are some of the cruise lines more accomodating for disabilities than others? Travel has been a real problem for us in various venues even those that are supposedly “disability-friendly.”

Most of the larger cruise lines are very accessible. Not Viking river cruises. I’d stick with Holland America, Princess, royal Caribbean, or Celebrity. Been on all but HA. I use a travelscoot.

Nan, please don’t hesitate to book a cruise. Most of the cruise lines are ADA passenger friendly and onboard staff are accommodating, respectful and helpful. Windstar may present a challenge due to the very nature of sailing yachts and their closer quarters/narrow hallways. From my personal observation and experiences, Seabourne will go out of their way to make you comfortable and the Celebrity ADA concierge will even locate you a rental scooter and attendant if required. Of course, all cruise lines will allow you to bring your own ADA equipment onboard and all but a handful have accessible cabins with roll in showers. Hope this information helps you.

Most cruise lines will be very accommodating, and you won’t have any problem at all!

Leaving on our 4th in a few weeks. Looking forward to it….

Bon Voyage!

We are small ship cruisers! We have done 2 Scenic cruise excursions in Europe, totally all inclusive! We were in S . France in September,Absolutely beautiful. In January we did a 2 week adventure on Windstar …it was the best vacation ever! Such a nice way to spend the month of January.,sandals and sundresses.!

The small ships are our preferred way to go too.

Amazing!! They sound fabulous

We love cruising and have been on many – 28 to be exact! But after picking up Covid last summer on a cruise I am very nervous to go again. Too many people in a small space. It is my favorite way to see the world and feel pampered at the same time. Don’t know if I will ever feel comfortable going again and that makes me sad.

I understand your hesitancy, and it is close quarters. I hate that we have to worry about COVID now.

Elaine, May I suggest looking into PONANT, a French line out of Brittany. Presently disembarked this morning in St Lucia awaiting flight home to Vancouver in a few days, and best ever! Meticulously clean , with all staff wearing masks ( as per French law) and these smaller Explorer ships 180 max passengers. This cruise was just 123 of us , with 22 French passengers. Try US site , otherwise price in Euros on en.ponant. I believe if you are fully vaccinated, with booster, you will feel secure. They are very definite regarding health , with a small clinic/ pharmacy / hospital supplied with doctor & assistant on every vessel. My previous trip ( Lisbon to London) last spring , just as cruises restarted required full disclosure regarding Covid. Portugal ,at that time, was the only EU country to require visitors to prove Covid free status. We were again tested by PONANT prior to boarding. We 84 passengers all passed with flying colours. All balcony cabins and suites. Hope this may prompt you to look into this amazing company, Elaine. I am an ardent supporter, with another solo cruise coming up in late May. Only way for me.

Thanks for the great list of cruise lines. We love river cruising with Uniworld, you are treated like royalty!

Our friends cruised on Uniworld and loved it.

We have done two Uniworld cruises (pre-Covid) — Amsterdam to Basel and Budapest to Prague. Loved both of them and planning to book another. Uniworld is pricey, but it is all-inclusive, and you really are treated like royalty.

We have traveled on land and water, for many years, with Vantage. We love the Vantage staffing and the fact that the company offers many land trips as well. Vantage, too, is casual and comfortable and we have met some amazing people on both the land trips and the river cruises. We were in Egypt with Vantage during the revolution of 2011 and the care and attention we received was remarkable. Our son was contacted by phone every day with information on our status, we were evacuated to Jordan, we were flown home from Amman by whatever route was best for us despite our having made different original flight plans, and we were reimbursed for the days that we could not spend going up the Nile. On our most recent river trip on the Danube and Rhine, water levels were low, and so a local tour boat was hired to take us on the portion of the trip that the larger river boat could not travel. We all had a wonderful time!

Vantage sounds like an amazing line with great customer service. I’ve always wanted to see Egypt.

Very timely post today as we are thinking about booking a cruise. It’s been quite awhile since I’ve been on one. Princess cruise line to the Caribbean. I think we would like a riverboat cruise. Anyway thank you for the great info.

Currently I am in love with Celebrity Cruise Line ! Top notch food and the crew is just great ! And for river cruises don’t forget American Cruise Lines ! I am a Travel Agent and many people love to see the United States and what a better way than to do it on a ship!

We are hoping to cruise the Mississippi one day soon.

Wait! Don’t forget AmaWaterways! They are also a river cruise line, like Viking, only BETTER. Great staff, lovely boat, great food.

I would also like to mention Regent for ocean cruises – a step up from Celebrity, but not as $$ as Oceania.

We are Regent Seven Seas supporters, too, Catherine! We love the all-inclusive aspect and the personal connections with the wonderful, caring staff. The ports are fantastic and the included tours are always very special!

We travelled most summers (my husband was a teacher) with our children but didn’t start cruising until retirement. The smaller cruise lines look lovely but are not in our price range however we’ve had wonderful cruises with Holland America and Celebrity. No cruises in the last 4 years but we have 3 planned for this year, including one in the Caribbean with our children and grandchildren as an alternative to a week in a beach rental. No one has to shop or cook or clean, we can just enjoy each other’s company!

We also took an Alaskan cruise in 2018 with our kids and grands. It was great. Like you said no one had to shop, cook, or clean! We had dinner together every night in the main dining room. Because Carnival allowed 2 year olds in their children’s program and we had twins, that was our choice. And the ship and activities WERE fun. This summer we are going on Royal Caribbean to the western Caribbean. I must mention Gate1 travel.com for river cruises. They are very affordable and may only lack 2 bells and a whistle. Ha. Viking and our ship were together at every port and we had to tender through each others’ sometimes.

Those sound so fabulous! Great points…you can just enjoy the family.

Viking for us every time. No casino, no noises, no kids, very casual. The extent of dressing up was a knit dress and scarf. No need to impress. Very nice tour opportunities or you could do your own thing on shore if you had previously been to the cities, which we did a few times. We loved it and plan to go back. I would definitely not enjoy a huge cruise ship, as I don’t want or need manufactured entertainment every night. I look for peace and relaxation when I go on these trips, not Vegas!

We’re not into lots of entertainment at night either so the Viking was perfection.

Thank you for this article we are taking our first Viking in September, before we always did Holland America. I can’t wait to read what to pack I have no idea since it has been so long and I read Viking is more casual. Thank you for this article.

Janice, Viking is very casual. No long dresses for women, no suits for men, altho a jacket might be used. My husband wore a nice collared shirt and a vest with his long trousers. He didn’t take a jacket other than a warm fleece. Good walking shoes are essential since the tours sometimes involve a lot of walking. You could have one pair of nice shoes for wearing on the ship, for instance.. I took booties. No fancy stuff. I packed one dress, wore it once, and home on the plane. Otherwise nice pants and top worked fine. They furnish hair dryers, you won’t need that. We tend to dress up a little when traveling, no slouchy sweats or big white tennis shoes . We try to look more like an older local person might look..

You will love Viking! It’s so much more intimate.

Great summary of cruise line’s Jennifer. We love cruising and have really enjoyed the SilverSeas line. The service is fantastic and love the smaller ships so we don’t feel like in are on a floating city. It’s low key which suits us fine. It’s a great way to travel, not only because of the service but also the opportunity to visit different ports and if there is one that you want to explore further, you can visit another time. Bon voyage!

Our friends loved their SilverSeas cruise. We have to check into their itineraries. The floating cities aren’t our cup of tea either.

We, too, love cruising! We haven’t since COVID though and had one scheduled for Australia/New Zealand and I had a heart episode and couldn’t go. Our travel buddies said it was great but the ship missed ports because of New Zealand’s strict requirements about ship hills, etc (long story). I have to say that China was the most interesting and the only place where we felt totally foreign, no “silver blond haired people” that we saw. At the panda reserve I was having a “bad tummy day” and sat to rest and people would touch my hair, one couple even put their baby on my lap for a photo. There is always an unexpected spot on our trips that are breathtaking – Malta, Valletta, a sweet craft village in Hungary. We have cruised with a number of cruise lines all of which have pros and cons. Tauck Tours are great!

I’m so sorry to hear about your heart episode. I hope everything is stable now. I’ve always wanted to see China and a cruise sounds like the perfect way to do it.

Thank you for the suggestions/synopsis of the various cruise lines! My husband and I have only been on one cruise which I would highly recommend. The Hurtigruten cruises (both north bound and south) along the coast of Norway are truly spectacular. These boats were the original mail boats (modern versions now, of course) for the country and still serve as supply lines for the ports. The stops along the way offer great opportunities to see a part of the country that would be impossible otherwise. I wish I were on one of those boats right now!

Those sound amazing!! I’ve never heard of that line. Thanks for sharing with us.

We’ve done two Viking river cruises and one Viking ocean cruise and have found them to be wonderful. The ocean cruise had an on board historian that gave several lectures which were insightful and very interesting! We were in Croatia, so one of the talks was about Game of Thrones which we love. He related many of the events and characters to historical people and events but made the lecture fun, not at all dry or boring. The Danube River cruise was awesome! Wonderful shore excursions! We extended our stay in Budapest which I highly recommend. I also would recommend the Rhône in Provence which was beautiful! A stay in Paris for a few days really rounds or the trip.

The Rhône is on our bucket list. Budapest was fabulous!

We are doing the Rhône in August with AMAWaterways. It will be our second time on the Rhone. Lovely area.

Loved your suggestions on cruise lines. We did the Viking Riverboat Rhine Cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam last spring and it was fabulous. My first experience on a riverboat and I am ready to go again. We also met a couple we keep in touch with and we are meeting them at the coast of Spain in May! I am curious about Windstar and want to check them out. My husband is a lake sailor and would love their boat experience. I have read your posts in the past for cruise packing and they were very helpful. Have a great day!

It all looks wonderful but I have a deathly fear of the water. I have heard it all, big boats, you will never know you are in the water. Hmm, yes I will. But it all looks so relaxing and entertaining.

Truth be told, I’m not fond of the water either but for some reason I am not afraid on the ships.

My husband loves to sail too which is why we started on Windstar. The stabilizer bars keep them from tipping which makes me happy 😁

My husband and I love to travel but always said we wouldn’t take a cruise until we turned 70. That happened a few years ago but we haven’t taken one yet because we’re worried we won’t like it. But this gives me some motivation to try it. Sounds like you’ve had many great trips!

I think you’ll love them. They can be just as busy or quiet as you like and the destinations are fabulous.

We took our first cruise, destination Alaska. We weren’t sure we were going to like ship life but it was wonderful and a great way to see the state and a good starter experience for us. What a shock when we got off the ship and had to start paying for things again! We took a second cruise to the Mediterranean with another couple and I’ll never forget taking a yoga class on the bow of the ship with the large cathedral of Marseille in the background! Both ships were smaller than 750 passengers and we loved every minute of our experiences. I don’t think I could do more than a week though. I live and work on a ranch and can’t sit still much longer than that!

Good morning, Jennifer! My husband and I have taken all 3 of the cruise lines you mentioned, with Windstar being our favorite. Viking’s ship (it was an ocean cruise) was lovely, Seabourn had the best entertainment — almost Broadway-level quality, but Windstar’s service was over the top. We have many pictures with the staff and they always make me smile. Thanks for a wonderful blog!

We’re hoping to take another Windstar this summer. They’re just wonderful.

Good morning Jennifer, my favorite topic cruises. My husband and I took a Viking cruise on the Danube. What a wonderful way to visit Europe. We met a very nice couple and still keep in touch with them. Our very favorite cruise line is Celebrity. We have taken 7 cruises with them not including the one we have scheduled for Aug 24th on the Mediterranean. We always book their Aqua Class cabins. So fun talking about cruises😍😍 Have a great day and keep on cruising

We just love cruising!! I’ll have to check into the Aqua class cabins.

Good morning Jennifer, I just got home from a 10 day cruise to Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. So nice to get away from the cold weather. This was a family cruise of brothers and sister all over 65 with spouses. We had a great time! We went with Celebrity Cruiseline and thought they were excellant. Depending on what time of the year you go you will find most passengers are senior citizens. The last 2 cruises we’ve been on have been all older adults. We’ve been on Princess and Carnival. Carnival seems to have a younger crowd and some have duty partying. If you have a bucket list of countries you’d like to see, you can’t beat cruising. The unpacking once and great food and service is the best. Wish you had posted the “what to pack for a cruise” a couple of weeks ago. Lol.

Your trip sounds amazing! How fun to get all the siblings together.

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5 Best and Awesome Cruises for Seniors

Best cruise lines for seniors over 60.

Yes, being a senior comes with many advantages but the luxury of traveling is by far the best advantage you can get. And, what better way than going on a cruise to bid adieu to your troubles? Heading on a cruise does away with nerve-wracking elements that other kinds of travel usually carry and gives you a glimpse of never-ending vistas of water and mesmerizing sights. Having said that, the extensive array of cruises seniors can choose from can be confusing but fear not.

Here are five of the best cruise lines for seniors.

1. Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises helps you explore the world in comfort and adopts a fuss-free approach. It is all about offering you a traveler’s experience and comes with the largest fleet of river vessels that offer incredible cruising along Europe, China, Portugal, Egypt, Southeast Asia, and Russia. It gives you access to small ports and gives you a chance to get up-close-and-personal with the destination and its culture in a wonderful way. Viking Cruises offer diverse ocean as well as destination centric cruising at its best while never compromising on the quality of the voyage.

2. Holland America Line

Whether you are traveling solo or with your significant other, the Holland America Line makes traveling easy and comfortable. It presents shore excursions, wheelchair accessible rooms, new accessible cabins and amenities, and a world-class demonstration kitchen along with seminars and classes. This cruise line offers exotic itineraries as well as world-tour itineraries and possesses 15 mid-size cruise ships that offer 500 sailings to all seven continents.

3. Cunard Line

If you are looking for an unbelievable voyage that offers world-class entertainment, flawless service and gourmet dining at its best, Cunard Line is your best bet. It lends a classic yet contemporary touch to proceedings and blends in well with a wide variety of budgets as well as lifestyles. It comes with a full-scale planetarium, enrichment programs and lectures, as well as British style afternoon tea.

4. Royal Caribbean International

The Royal Caribbean International is a cruise line that provides an unsurpassed experience while assuring good value for your money. This cruise line guarantees extremely large ships promises ample amount of fun and adventure. It currently manages operations for 24 ships and comes with amenities such as a fitness center, multiple whirlpools, wheelchair accessible staterooms, an indoor solarium, a casino and music hall along with multi-purpose venues. To complete the unique ambiance, it offers a vibrant dining experience.

5. Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is immensely popular for its exquisite dining experience. Its imaginative insider tours help you get to the heart of the destination you are traveling to with a particular emphasis on culinary and cultural traditions. Its mid-size ships offer impeccable service as you travel to destinations such as Africa, South America, the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, and other places. Its Latin art collections, coffee cafes, private verandas, culinary discovery tours, and shore excursions are sure to make your voyage an awesome experience.

So whether you are edging closer towards retirement or are already living the stress-free life and the perks that come with it, going on a cruise is a wonderful idea. Choosing from these five cruise liners will further make your experience all the more worthwhile.

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Best Cruise Lines for Single Seniors

Do you like going on cruises? Are you single and would like to travel with similar people in your age range? Several cruise lines cater well to single seniors by offering activities, accommodations, and social events tailored to their interests. 

Here are some popular cruise line options for single seniors:

• Best Luxurious Cruise Line – Silversea Cruises – Silversea specializes in luxury cruising with smaller ships that offer an intimate atmosphere. Its sophisticated ambiance and personalized service can appeal to single seniors looking for a premium experience.
• Best Adult-Only – Viking Ocean Cruises – Viking Ocean Cruises offers an intimate and relaxed cruising experience with no children on board. Itineraries focus on cultural immersion, and its ships feature a variety of amenities and activities suitable for solo travelers, including single stateroom options.
• Best Entertainment – Cunard Line – Known for its elegant atmosphere and traditional ocean liner experience, Cunard attracts many single seniors. The line offers a variety of enrichment programs, social activities, and formal evenings.
• Best Long Cruises – Holland America Line – Holland America provides a classic cruising experience with a focus on enrichment activities, cultural experiences, and fine dining. Their ships offer a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers, including dedicated solo cabins on some ships.
• Best Over 50 – Saga Cruises – Specifically designed for passengers aged 50 and older, Saga Cruises caters to the needs and interests of mature travelers. They offer single cabins, a relaxed atmosphere, and a variety of inclusive activities and excursions.

When choosing a cruise line, consider factors such as the itinerary, onboard amenities, dining options, and the atmosphere that best suits your preferences and interests as a single senior traveler. 

What to Look for in a Cruise Line for Single Seniors

When single seniors are choosing a cruise line, several factors must be considered to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience. 

Solo Cabins

Some cruise lines offer cabins designed specifically for solo travelers. These can be more affordable than paying a single supplement on a regular double cabin. Check if the cruise line provides these and what the associated costs are.

Single Supplements

Many cruise lines charge a single supplement fee, which can sometimes be up to 100% of the cabin cost. Look for cruise lines that offer reduced or no single supplement fees, which can make cruising more affordable for solo travelers.

Age Demographic

Choose a cruise line that caters to a mature audience or offers specific cruises for seniors. This can enhance your social experience, providing you with opportunities to meet other travelers in your age group.

Onboard Activities and Programs

Look for ships that offer programs and activities suited to your interests. Enrichment programs, lectures, workshops, cultural tours, and gentle physical activities are popular among senior travelers.

Social Opportunities

Some cruise lines organize events specifically for solo travelers, such as welcome receptions or group dining options. These can help you meet other solo travelers and create a sense of community on board.

Itinerary and Duration

Consider the length of the cruise and the destinations. Some seniors prefer longer cruises that visit multiple or exotic locations, while others might prefer shorter, more relaxed itineraries.

Accessibility and Medical Facilities

Check the ship’s accessibility features, especially if you have mobility challenges. Also, ensure that there are medical facilities onboard, which is crucial for older travelers.

Dining Options

Flexible dining options, including open seating and multiple venues, are important to seniors. Some appreciate gourmet dining experiences, while others might prefer more casual options.

Ship Size and Amenities

The size of the ship can impact your experience. Smaller ships often provide a more intimate and less crowded experience, which might appeal to those who prefer a quieter environment. Larger ships might offer more amenities and activities.

Cost and Inclusions

Finally, consider what is included in the price of your cruise. Some luxury lines offer all-inclusive pricing that covers meals, beverages, and even excursions, which can be very convenient and help manage your budget.

Cruise Lines for Single Seniors

These cruise lines prioritize comfort, accessibility, and refined entertainment, ensuring that single seniors can enjoy a fulfilling and hassle-free voyage. 

With special features like single cabins, age-specific activities, and inclusive pricing, these cruise lines are superb choices for seniors traveling solo or looking to meet peers in a sophisticated, welcoming setting.

Best Luxurious Cruise Line – Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises is renowned for its ultra-luxury cruising experience. It operates a fleet of small, intimate ships that sail to over 900 destinations globally. This cruise line is perfect for those seeking an all-inclusive experience with personalized service. 

The cruise line offers a premier experience tailored towards those who value sophistication, serenity, and depth in their travel adventures. Its focus on luxury and personal comfort makes it an excellent choice for single seniors who are looking for a rich and hassle-free cruising experience.

Key Features of Silversea Cruises

• All-Inclusive Luxury – Silversea fares generally include gourmet dining, sophisticated wines and spirits, gratuities, and an in-suite butler service, ensuring a highly personalized and carefree cruise experience.
• Intimate Ship Size – The smaller ship size not only allows access to ports that larger ships cannot reach but also creates a more personal and less crowded experience. This environment fosters easy socializing and personalized attention from the crew.
• Enrichment Programs – Silversea offers extensive enrichment opportunities such as lectures from guest speakers, culinary demonstrations, and destination-focused insights that cater to the intellectually curious traveler.
• Personalized Experience – Due to the small size of the ships, staff can provide more attentive and personalized service. Each suite comes with butler service, enhancing the luxury experience.
• Exotic and Comprehensive Itineraries – Silversea ships visit both common and off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering deeper cultural immersion and unique experiences.
• High-Quality Dining – With a variety of dining options including partnerships with Relais & Châteaux, Silversea offers exceptional culinary experiences that are included in the cruise fare.
• Higher Cost – Silversea’s luxurious offerings and all-inclusive nature mean it tends to be more expensive than many other cruise lines, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.
• Less Varied Nightlife and Entertainment – Compared to larger ships, the entertainment onboard is more subdued, focusing more on enrichment than on high-energy shows or parties.
• Older Ships – Some of the ships are older, which might not appeal to those looking for the latest onboard technologies or brand-new facilities, although they are well-maintained and luxurious.

Best Adult-Only Cruise Line – Viking Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises is known for its modern, elegant ships and emphasis on cultural enrichment and destination-focused itineraries. It maintains an adults-only policy, which provides a calm atmosphere, particularly appealing to those seeking a quiet and sophisticated cruise experience. 

The line caters extensively to solo travelers, including offering specific single staterooms, making it an excellent choice for single seniors who appreciate culture, history, and relaxed sophistication. Viking Ocean Cruises provides a refined and thoughtful ocean or river cruising experience that is ideal for single seniors looking for relaxation, enrichment, and a deep dive into the cultures they visit.

Key Features of Viking Ocean Cruises

• Adults-Only Policy – Viking Ocean Cruises maintains a strict 18-and-over policy, which ensures a serene environment free from the noise and activity associated with children and families. This policy appeals especially to those seeking peace and quiet.
• Cultural Immersion and Enrichment – Viking provides its passengers with immersive cultural experiences both onboard and ashore. Lectures, themed talks, and destination performances are common, as are included excursions at each port that focus on local culture, history, and cuisine.
• All-Inclusive Value – Fares include one shore excursion in each port and all onboard meals (including specialty restaurants), making the cruising experience worry-free and comprehensive with no hidden costs.
• Focus on Destination – Itineraries are designed to spend more time in port, often with overnight stays, allowing deeper exploration of the destinations.
• Intimate and Comfortable Ships – With a smaller ship size compared to mainstream mega-ships, Viking offers a more personal and less crowded experience, facilitating easier social interactions and more attentive service.
• High-Quality, Varied Dining Options – Viking’s cuisine is widely praised. It features ingredients sourced from destinations along the itinerary and multiple dining venues that are all included in the cruise fare.
• Limited Entertainment Options – The entertainment onboard Viking is more low-key, lacking the large-scale shows or casino facilities found on bigger cruise ships, which might not appeal to those seeking a vibrant nightlife.
• Higher Price Point – While offering considerable value through its inclusive pricing, Viking’s upfront cost can be higher than some other cruise lines, which might be a deterrent for budget-conscious travelers.

Best Entertainment – Cunard Line  

Cunard Line stands as a beacon of traditional and elegant ocean travel. It is known for its iconic transatlantic crossings aboard the Queen Mary 2, among other luxurious vessels. This cruise line blends modern amenities with classic charm, offering a timeless cruise experience that appeals to those who appreciate a touch of nostalgia and class. 

With its unique blend of historical grandeur and contemporary sophistication, Cunard is a favorite among more mature travelers, including single seniors looking for a distinguished and serene cruising experience.

Cunard Line delivers a cruise experience that is steeped in tradition and luxury, making it particularly appealing to single seniors and those who cherish an elegant, slower-paced travel style. It stands out for its commitment to maintaining the grace of classic ocean voyages while still providing all the amenities expected of a modern luxury cruise.

Key Features of Cunard Line

• Transatlantic Crossings and World Voyages – Cunard is famed for its transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton, a unique offering in the modern cruising world. It also offers extensive world voyages that appeal to those who wish to explore the globe in comfort.
• Enrichment Programs – Cunard prides itself on a broad range of enrichment activities. These include lectures from its Insights program, which features talks by notable historians, scientists, politicians, and more. Cunard also offers workshops and classes ranging from acting and dancing to wine tasting and art.
• Traditional British Elegance – Cunard ships exude classic British elegance, including afternoon tea served by white-gloved waitstaff, grand ballrooms, and formal gala nights, providing an experience reminiscent of the golden age of ocean travel.
• Sophisticated Atmosphere – The cruise line upholds a formal and refined ambiance that caters especially well to those who enjoy dressing up and engaging in traditional cruise activities like ballroom dancing.
• Extensive Itineraries – In addition to the unique transatlantic crossings, Cunard offers a diverse range of itineraries globally, from short trips to full world cruises, providing options for all lengths and types of vacations.
• High-Quality Dining, Entertainment, and Service – Cunard has a strong reputation for its dining options, from the grand main dining rooms to alternative dining venues that offer a range of gourmet meals prepared to high standards.
• Formal Atmosphere May Not Appeal to All – The emphasis on formality, including mandatory gala nights where formal attire is required, might not appeal to those looking for a casual vacation experience.
• Higher Cost – Cunard’s luxurious offerings and unique experiences generally come with a higher price tag, especially for the transatlantic crossings and suites, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.

Best Long Cruises – Holland America Line

Holland America Line (HAL) is renowned for its mid-sized ships that combine classic maritime traditions with modern hospitality and service. This cruise line appeals to a mature demographic, offering an elegant, relaxed, and refined cruising experience. 

Known for its excellent customer service, spacious staterooms, and a wide array of enrichment programs, Holland America Line is particularly popular among mature adults and single seniors who prefer a sophisticated yet understated atmosphere.

Holland America Line is a superb choice for single seniors and mature travelers who prioritize comfort, excellent service, and enriching experiences over the hustle and bustle of larger, more family-oriented cruise lines. Its commitment to a refined cruise experience makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful and enriching vacation on the seas.

Key Features of Holland America Line

• Mid-sized Ships – HAL’s ships are designed to be larger than boutique vessels but smaller than mega-ships, striking a balance that allows for a more intimate feel without sacrificing amenities. This size allows for easier navigation of the ship and a more personal level of service.
• Enrichment Programs and Activities – Holland America places a strong emphasis on cultural enrichment and lifelong learning, offering culinary demonstrations in the Culinary Arts Center modeled after the setup of a broadcast kitchen, digital workshops powered by Windows, and BBC Earth Experiences presentations. These programs appeal particularly to those interested in personal growth and learning.
• Culinary Excellence – In partnership with America’s Test Kitchen, HAL offers cooking shows and hands-on workshops where passengers can learn cooking techniques and recipes. The dining options aboard are diverse, ranging from casual to fine dining, including partnerships with renowned chefs.
• Focus on Destination Immersion – Holland America Line excels in creating itineraries that go deep into the cultural aspects of their destinations, often including longer stays, overnight port visits, and extensive shore excursion options to explore local cultures.
• Adult-Focused Activities – The onboard atmosphere emphasizes serene experiences like cooking classes, wine tastings, and music performances, catering more to adults and less to families with young children.
• Excellent Service – Known for attentive and high-quality service, the staff on HAL’s ships ensure that each guest feels cared for and valued. This is particularly appealing to older adults who appreciate recognition and personal interaction.
• Quieter Nightlife – Those looking for vibrant nightlife might find HAL’s entertainment offerings a bit subdued. The nightlife focuses more on relaxation and conversation rather than high-energy parties or late-night dance clubs.
• Decor and Amenities May Feel Dated – Some passengers feel that the ships, while elegant, could benefit from updates and renovations to match the more modern amenities found on newer ships from competing lines.

Best Over 50 – Saga Cruises

Saga Cruises is a British-based cruise line that specifically caters to travelers aged 50 and over, making it an ideal choice for mature adults and single seniors seeking a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience tailored to their interests. 

The cruise line operates smaller ships, which creates an intimate and friendly atmosphere. This exclusivity for older adults ensures that all facilities, activities, and excursions are designed with senior travelers in mind, providing a bespoke and worry-free cruising environment.

Saga Cruises provides an excellent option for single seniors and older travelers who appreciate an environment that caters exclusively to their age group. With a focus on comfort, accessibility, and tailored activities, Saga ensures a relaxed and enriching cruise experience in a friendly, like-minded community atmosphere.

Key Features of Saga Cruises

• Age-Specific Cruising – Saga Cruises requires at least one guest per cabin to be aged 50 years or older, with a companion over the age of 40 if not traveling solo. This age policy ensures that the onboard experience, activities, and entertainment are specifically tailored to the preferences of mature adults.
• Smaller Ship Size – Saga’s fleet consists of smaller ships, which not only allows access to less-trafficked ports of call but also facilitates a more personal and less crowded experience onboard. This setup enhances the quality of service and allows for easier socializing among passengers.
• All-Inclusive Pricing – Fares on Saga cruises include many amenities that are often extra on other lines, such as travel insurance, gratuities, shuttle buses to and from port towns, Wi-Fi, and a selection of wines at meals. This makes it easy for seniors to manage their travel budget without surprise costs.
• Personalized Attention and Service – With a high staff-to-passenger ratio and smaller ship sizes, passengers receive more personalized attention from the crew, enhancing the quality of the customer service experience.
• Comprehensive Medical Support – Understanding the needs of its demographic, Saga ships are well equipped with medical facilities, and there are qualified medical professionals onboard to handle any health-related issues that may arise.
• Designed for Accessibility – The ships and their programs are designed with accessibility in mind, which is a crucial consideration for seniors. Facilities are easily navigable for those with mobility issues, and special accommodations can be arranged as needed.
• Limited Ship and Itinerary Choices – Being a smaller cruise line, Saga offers fewer ships and itineraries compared to larger global operators. This might limit options for those looking for more exotic or varied routes.
• British Focus –  With a primarily British passenger base and operations, the onboard culture, entertainment, and food might be heavily UK-centric, which might not appeal to non-British travelers looking for a more international experience.

Whether choosing the luxurious intimacy of Silversea, the culturally immersive Viking Ocean Cruises, the traditional elegance of Cunard, the enriching environments of Holland America, or the senior-specific offerings of Saga Cruises, each line provides unique advantages that cater to mature adults. These cruise lines prioritize comfort, accessibility, and refined entertainment, ensuring that single seniors can enjoy a fulfilling and hassle-free voyage.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you planning a cruise in the near future? Are you single and interested in cruise lines that cater well to single seniors? Have you been on one of these cruises? What was your experience? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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This was a really informative blog. Thank you. I am quite new to cruising but have been on 4 in the past year. I always choose an inside cabin as I have the same facilities as everyone else, but for about half the price (another cruise!). Out of the four cruises, three had no single supplement at all. One was on P and O and two on MSC, so it is always worth looking around x

Tags Senior Cruises

Sixty and Me

Sixty and Me is a community of over 500,000 women over 60 founded by Margaret Manning. Our editorial team publishes articles on lifestyle topics including fashion, dating, retirement and money.

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The 6 best cruise lines for young adults

Travelers between the ages of 18 and 25 often get overlooked on cruises. They are too old for the teen clubs, even if they are still in high school at 18, but may be too young to drink at the onboard bars. Many cruise lines forget that 20-somethings still want to meet their onboard peers in group settings arranged by the cruise line — especially if they're traveling with older family members with different vacation interests.

The best cruise lines for young adults often have meetups that allow them to make friends quickly on the first night; have a cool, laid-back vibe in adults-only areas that they can finally access after graduating from the kids clubs; and have some sense of adventure built into the itinerary.

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Young adult cruisers can find a party around every corner on Carnival Cruise Line or adventures off the ship with Royal Caribbean International. Even solo cruisers will find cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line that are designed just for them, with communal spaces ideal for making friends.

Here, we list the six best cruise lines for young adults ages 18 to 25. Plus, we outline a few key things you should know when picking a cruise line, especially if you are younger than 21 (or traveling with someone who is).

3 things young adult cruisers need to know

Booking restrictions.

Some cruise lines do have restrictions for travelers looking to book a sailing if they are younger than 21. For instance, Royal Caribbean sets the minimum age to sail unaccompanied by an adult on cruises from North America at 21. (You only need to be 18 years old to sail from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.)

Before booking with any cruise line, you'll want to check the minimum age requirement of the cruise line to be sure you or someone in your group meets the requirements.

Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when booking your cruise

Drinking age on cruises

On most sailings from the U.S., guests must be at least 21 years old to drink alcohol on the ship. One exception to this rule is Margaritaville at Sea , which allows guests who are 18 to drink once the ship is in international waters or on Grand Bahama Island.

If you're sailing from a country that allows legal drinking at 18, as many European countries do, check the drinking policy for those who are younger than 21 for that particular sailing or cruise line before booking. For example, Disney Cruise Line allows 18- to 20-year-olds to consume alcohol on closed-loop sailings departing from any European country. Parents or guardians just need to sign a consent form.

Be warned, though, that consuming or even buying alcohol for those younger than 21 is a serious offense that can lead to forced debarkation on sailings that say the age for drinking is 21 and older.

Cruise line alcohol policies

Cruise lines generally frown on bringing your own alcohol on board, limiting bottles and charging corkage fees. Check your specific cruise line's policies because they are all different.

For example, Disney Cruise Line allows those who are at least 21 to bring two bottles of wine or six beers onto the ship with them in a carry-on bag on embarkation day and again at each port of call. Carnival Cruise Line allows cruisers 21 and older to bring one bottle of unopened wine per person on board in their carry-on luggage on embarkation day only.

If you decide to try to sneak on more alcohol than allowed , security can confiscate and discard it. Most cruise lines will open bottles of water, mouthwash and other clear liquids to confirm it's not contraband alcohol.

Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide

OK, enough of the rules and regulations. Here are our favorite cruise lines for young adults.

Best cruise line for a party: Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its lively atmosphere and party vibes. Sailings on Carnival are among the most affordable, which can benefit young adults looking for a fun vacation on a budget.

Along with fun fast-casual dining spots from celebrities like Guy Fieri and Shaquille O'Neal, Carnival's so-called "Fun Ships" have an abundance of shows, trivia challenges and outdoor activities that appeal to younger cruisers. On Carnival ships, those 18 and older can gamble in the onboard casino but cannot order drinks at the many themed bars unless they're at least 21 years old.

Carnival doesn't typically offer planned events for cruisers ages 18 to 25. Travelers looking to meet similarly aged travelers can connect with shipmates on Facebook groups dedicated to their sailing and arrange an unofficial meetup with other young adults on board. Active shore excursions, the fitness center and the hot tub on the adults-only sun deck are great places to look for peers during a cruise.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise line for young adult meetups: Disney Cruise Line

Even though Disney Cruise Line is known as the family cruise line, young adults may be on board because they have younger siblings or their family enjoys visiting Disney parks. Cruisers who have aged out of Vibe, the teen club for 14- to 17-year-olds, will find their own "secret" onboard club known as the 1820 Society.

Cruisers ages 18 to 20 who want to participate in the planned activities can see all the available happenings on the Disney Cruise Line app once they're on the ship. Young adults should attend the first meetup, which is where introductions and icebreaker games happen. Throughout the cruise and even on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, meetups and activities are scheduled for the age group.

Another plus for young adults is that Disney only requires guests to be 18 years old to sail unaccompanied. That means you and your friends don't need a parent chaperone for a weekend cruise filled with late-night dance parties in the District and brunch at the adults-only Palo restaurant .

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

Best cruise line for young foodies: Celebrity Cruises

Young adult cruisers who get excited about international cuisine and craft cocktails will enjoy Celebrity Cruises , especially its newest Edge-class ships. The line is a good choice for multigenerational trips, especially as its fares might be beyond a 20-something's budget.

Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond and the upcoming Ascent are filled with hip venues, such as Craft Social with its dozens of boutique beers and Eden with its innovative, nature-themed cocktails. If you want to feel the ocean breeze on your face while sipping a martini, head to the Rooftop Garden, where greenery, plush loungers and ocean views will keep you coming back throughout your cruise.

Dining at the many onboard restaurants is also a treat, with venues specializing in sushi, backyard barbecue, French bistro classics and handmade Italian pasta. If your budget doesn't allow for specialty dining, you won't get menu fatigue with four main dining rooms included in the fare. Each restaurant is themed around a different country's cuisine, including Greek, French, Italian and new American.

Related: 5 reasons you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Best cruise line for quick sailings: Royal Caribbean

Young adults may struggle to take time off from work or school to do a weeklong cruise. With Royal Caribbean , travelers in their late teens and 20s can take part in two- to five-night sailings from the U.S. or Europe that have affordable rates. Even better, some of the line's largest and attraction-laden ships sail these shorter itineraries, so you won't have a chance to be bored.

Cruises from Florida often go to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , which adds even more value to the cruise by adding a hassle-free beach day into the destination mix. On the island, lunch is free and you can use your shipboard beverage package to cover your drinks. Plus, the inviting pool and many beaches are great places to hang out and enjoy the water. You must pay extra to ride CocoCay's many waterslides, zip line or tethered hot air balloon.

On board the ships, young adults can meet others at the sports court for a pickup game of basketball or pickleball. The nightclubs and lounges are fun spots to dance and sing with new friends. The minimum age to sail without an older adult in the cabin for cruises departing from North America is 21.

Best cruise line for an adults-only atmosphere: Virgin Voyages

Young adults looking for a kid-free vacation should check out Virgin Voyages , an adults-only cruise line where the minimum age to book is 18. Gratuities, Wi-Fi and sassy group workouts are included in the fare. Each of the three (soon to be four) ships have many restaurants, such as Pink Agave for Mexican and Gunbae for Korean barbecue, all of which are fee-free.

At sea, guests ages 18 and older can enjoy an alcoholic beverage, but while docked in any U.S. port, the minimum drinking age on board is 21.

One of the most exciting moments of every Virgin Voyages sailing is Scarlet Night, when the entire ship is decked out in red thanks to added red lights and red crew outfits. Guests are encouraged to don their crimson best and attend a late-night dance party on the pool deck.

Adventurous passengers can get matching ink with their besties at the onboard tattoo shop or attend a risque show at night. This is definitely a cruise to take with your partner or peers, not your parents.

Related: An expert cruiser's first impressions of Scarlet Lady

Best cruise line for young adults traveling solo: Norwegian Cruise Line

Solo travelers are often overlooked and, frankly, outpriced on many cruises. With single supplement charges, solo cruisers pay the same total price for a room as two people sharing a cabin.

Norwegian Cruise Line changed the game with its Studio cabins. These 100-square-foot inside rooms are designed for one, so travelers won't be paying extra. Studio guests also get access to the Studio Lounge, a communal gathering space with big-screen TVs, drinks and snacks. Not all NCL ships offer solo cabins ; studios are available on multiple ships, including Norwegian Escape, Epic, Encore, the new Norwegian Prima and the upcoming Norwegian Viva.

On board, cruisers will find plenty of fast-casual and table-service dining options, including one of our favorite food halls at sea, Indulge Food Hall on Norwegian Prima and Viva. Active young adults will enjoy the go-kart tracks , virtual reality game rooms, waterslides and lively dance clubs found on many of Norwegian's newest ships. If you prefer to relax with a book and enjoy the ocean breeze, you can do that, too.

Bottom line

Whether on a family trip with younger siblings or older parents, a party cruise with friends or a relaxing escape with your significant other, young adults can find ships that speak their language. We recommend these six lines for 18- to 25-year-olds, but even on other ships, a good attitude and an adventurous spirit will go a long way toward making a trip you didn't choose extra fun. Young adults can find plenty that appeals to them on most cruises — with or without mom and dad.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Best Cruise Lines for the Money

With lodging, food and entertainment all included in one price, a vacation at sea is often a better value than a

With lodging, food and entertainment all included in one price, a vacation at sea is often a better value than a land-based getaway – if you choose wisely. To help you make the most of your travel budget, U.S. News ranked the following cruise lines based on a methodology that factors in itinerary affordability, amenities included in the base fare, health ratings and reputation among experts and travelers. Read on to learn more about this year's best cruise lines for the money, and be sure to check our latest cruise deals for an even more affordable vacation experience. 

Read Best Cruises Methodology

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Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages may not seem like the most affordable offering at a glance, but it presents cruisers with supreme value. Base fares include all onboard dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, group fitness classes and more. Add those benefits to Virgin's ongoing sales, and you're looking at a top-notch experience for less. 

• 4.39 Overall Rating
• 3 Ships in Fleet

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' vessels offer the endless amenities and buffets of its competitors' megaships but maintain the service standard of smaller lines. Rates on Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries run less than $200 per person, and all-inclusive add-on packages are available.

• 4.36 Overall Rating
• 13 Ships in Fleet

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises targets more adult travelers (especially on longer voyages) than family-oriented lines like Royal Caribbean International, but at similar prices. Along with lodging and select dining, fares cover activities like cooking demonstrations and educational lectures.

• 4.02 Overall Rating
• 15 Ships in Fleet

Royal Caribbean International

With more than 25 cruise ships, Royal Caribbean is one of the largest lines sailing the ocean today. Having the ability to accommodate thousands of guests per ship allows the company to keep rates low. In fact, travelers may find itineraries in popular destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, the Bahamas and the Pacific Coast for around $250 per person.

• 4.17 Overall Rating
• 25 Ships in Fleet

Holland America Line

Cruisers will find this premium cruise line to be a pretty good bargain, with four-day Caribbean sailings often starting at less than $300 per person, and short voyages along the Pacific Coast coming in around $100 per person. But cutting costs doesn't mean skimping on service; Holland America ships offer individualized attention, free room service and all-inclusive package options.

• 4.14 Overall Rating
• 11 Ships in Fleet

MSC Cruises

MSC offers sailings from North American ports like Miami, New York City and Orlando, Florida, though the majority of its voyages depart from international locales. But even if you have to fly to a foreign port, you'll save money over a typical land vacation abroad. Mediterranean sailings can start at around $100 per person, and the line offers several deals and money-saving packages.

• 3.79 Overall Rating
• 22 Ships in Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival specializes in budget-friendly fun, offering frequent, significant discounts on already low prices. In fact, itineraries for around $200 per person are the norm. Access to most of the ships' activities won't cost a penny, but keep in mind that some extras (like specialty restaurants, beverages and certain attractions) aren't covered in fares.

• 3.90 Overall Rating

Norwegian Cruise Line

With its popular, frequently running Free at Sea program, Norwegian offers travelers discounts on Wi-Fi, excursions, alcohol, airfare and more on top of its already low prices. And, similar to luxury lines, Norwegian ditches steadfast rules like assigned dining times, but costs a fraction of the price.

• 3.97 Overall Rating
• 19 Ships in Fleet

Cunard Line

While you may not expect to find a more opulent line like Cunard on this list, the cruise provider has a surprising number of relatively reasonable fares for upcoming sailings. Travelers can fully enjoy the line's old-world elegance knowing that room service, onboard activities and most dining options are included in the base price.

• 4.07 Overall Rating

Costa Cruises

A member of the Carnival family, Costa Cruises is primarily based in Europe. The fleet offers lower rates than its competitors, particularly for its Mediterranean itineraries (think: fares starting at less than $100 per person). Although it offers family-friendly amenities, Costa's ships are also well-suited to adults, with various entertainment options like theater shows and casinos.

• 3.50 Overall Rating
• 8 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Condé Nast Traveler

The 11 Best Cruise Lines for Adults

Posted: February 28, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

The world's best cruise lines for adults have one major perk in common: the child-free utopia passengers are afforded while sailing. Daydreaming on deck , leisurely romantic dinners, dancing into the wee hours, popping champagne, and even getting tatted—such unabashed joys have everything to do with being grownup and nothing to do with kids.

The best adult cruises allow passengers to pursue relaxation, rejuvenation, and indulgence, undisturbed by tantrum-minded toddlers and other children potentially ruining your me-time groove. For when it's time to sail away from the stresses of life on land, we've pulled together the very best cruise lines for adults, plus their most exciting itineraries available for booking in 2024 and early 2025.

Note that while some of these lines are strictly adults-only, others are adults-oriented, meaning that they may have some well-behaved older children on board during school holidays but otherwise, rarely do. Most are small ship experiences with geared-to-grownup itineraries spanning the globe and leaning into all-inclusiveness and luxury—all the better to admire when it’s all about you.

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Formerly Crystal Cruises, the adults-driven luxury line was purchased by Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, then dramatically remodeled and reborn as Crystal. Its legions of fiercely loyal fans are largely back, as are many familiar crew who pamper passengers incessantly. Its two gorgeous ships, 740-passenger Crystal Serenity and 606-passenger Crystal Symphony , fairly ooze sophistication and style. Crystal renewed its partnership with Nobu Matsuhisa; the line's award-winning onboard restaurant Umi Uma presents the globally renowned chef’s only plates at-sea. These ships voyage most of the world, with inclusions like nearly all dining, alcohol, 24-hour room service, gratuities, butler service, and WiFi.

The sailing to take this year: Crystal Serenity offers a 12-day Cape Town to Tema, Ghana , visiting Namibia , Angola, and São Tomé, a dual-island nation dubbed Africa’s Galápagos. Incredible outings include climbing Walvis Bay’s colossal sand dunes and exploring São Tomé’s pristine forests with nearly 200 endemic species. Departs May 5, 2024, from $6,900 per person .

This adults-oriented luxury French line of small sleek ships include its six newest 184-passenger “Ponant Explorer” vessels, four 264-passenger expedition sister ships, and 32-passenger yacht Le Ponant . While many cruises are bilingual, sails in partnership with the prestigious Smithsonian Journeys are English-only. Count on some 44 such itineraries including onboard talks given by world-class experts, one excursion in each port, and other fare-included perks such as dining, alcohol, WiFi, and gratuities. So many Smithsonian Journeys compel, such as a nine-day Celtic Voyage, eight-day Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea, and a nine-day Circumnavigation of Sicily.

The sailing to take this year: Hats-off to Le Champlain’s immersive Sicily voyage sailing roundtrip Valletta, Malta . Besides noted ports, this sail includes visits to Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Maltese isle of Gozo; and another UNESCO stunner, Lipari in the Aeolian Islands. The line's 2025 departures add Tunis as a further temptation. Departs April 14, 2024, June 2, 2025, and August 29, 2025, from $8,580 per person .

Seabourn, an ultra-luxury adults-oriented line, recently introduced twin polar-class expedition ships, 264-passenger Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture, with exploration toys like submarines and a 24-expert team to guide and engage passengers. Luxe elements include all-suite accommodations, complimentary caviar, and eight dining venues. Seabourn’s five all-suite ocean liners include the two newest and most glam 600-passenger sister ships, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore . Seabourn fares include all the restaurants on board (including the new Mediterranean venue Solis on non-expedition ships), alcohol, 24-hour suite dining, dancing on deck, and caviar in the surf beach barbecues.

The sailing to take this year: Seabourn ships roam the globe, with knockout itineraries like a 12-day “Canary Island Jewels and Morocco” on Seabourn Ovation , sailing roundtrip Lisbon . Imagine sipping local wine in the westernmost Canaries, wandering lively souks in Tangier, and learning to cook delicious Moroccan specialties. Departs April 26, from $6,204 per person .

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ultra-luxurious and opulent, this adults-oriented six-ship line is inclusive to the max: think business-class airline tickets for international flights, fine dining, all-suite accommodations, 24-hour suite service, alcohol, dining, valet laundry, gratuities, transfers, and some shore excursions. Multi-million-dollar art collections on the three newest ships stun. On brand-new 744-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur , revel in 1,600 masterpieces including multiple Picassos and a Fabergé egg, the first to reside at-sea. The entire ship’s design is jaw-droppingly beautiful and restaurants, like pan-Asian Pacific Rim and the French Chartreuse, excel.

The sailing to take this year: This ship sails many locales, like an enchanting 12-day fall foliage cruise from Boston to Montréal , with complimentary excursions like visiting Kennebunkport, Maine , a Nova Scotia pub tour, and high tea at the iconic Château Frontenac in Quebec City . Departs October 1, 2024, from $12,699 per person .

Windstar Cruises

This luxe-minded, adults-oriented line counts six vessels that accommodate between 148 and 342 passengers. Three are tall-sails Wind Class ships; three are all-suite Star Plus Class yachts. All offer a relaxed, friendly on-board ambiance, with itineraries leaning into small ports, late-night departures, and port overnights . From the water sport platform, guests can kayak, paddle board, snorkel, or water trampoline. Besides the Caribbean and Mediterranean, Windstar ships also ply far-flung waters, from transatlantic crossings to cruises in South America and Iceland . Star Breeze now sails Tahiti voyages, cruising the unforgettable turquoise waters of French Polynesia year-round.

The sailing to take this year: “Tahitian Treasures and Magnificent Marquesas ” (the latter a cruise rarity) sails 14-days roundtrip Papeete, including visiting Paul Gauguin’s former home on Hiva Oa, exploring a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and ogling the Pacific’s largest Tiki sculptures. Departs July 4, 2024, from $6,199 per person .

Scenic is an adults-oriented, ultra-luxury polar-class expedition line with two 228-passenger vessels, Scenic Eclipse I and Scenic Eclipse II . The ships feel sexy and sophisticated, with all-suite accommodations, butler service, up to 10 dining experiences, nine bars and lounges, and a huge spa with a yoga and Pilates studio. Expect numerous inclusions, like alcohol, dining, WiFi, gratuities, and shore excursions (other than helicopter or submersible rides) led by seasoned experts. Scenic explores the globe, emphasizing polar itineraries .

The sailing to take this year: The line recently introduced a Scenic Eclipse II Western Australia Kimberley region itinerary. Expedition highlights include coral islands with thousands of endemic birds, vertical waterfalls, and ancient Indigenous rock art. Sailing May until September, 11-day voyages between Broome and Darwin, Australia, begin at $11,730 per person .

Virgin Voyages

If you want to cruise with the cool kids, book an adults-only Virgin Voyages cruise. This line puts the hip in hipster; it calls cruisers sailors , is LGBTQ+-friendly, and attracts everyone from 20-something groups of friends to middle-aged-and-up couples. The premium line’s fares includes complimentary dining in a whopping 20 restaurants like Gunbae, a Korean bbq hotspot, WiFi, group fitness classes, and gratuities. Think high-energy happy campers, er, sailors, who celebrate with new tats done on board, many cocktails (don’t miss the Champagne Lounge), dance parties, pop-up circus performances, and hanging in port late-night. The three 2,770-passenger sister ships Scarlet Lady , Valiant Lady , and Resilient Lady sail the Caribbean and Med.

The sailing to take this year: Find fast fun on Scarlet Lady five-day roundtrip Miami cruises, like “Fire and Sunset Soirées,” with a private Beach Club experience in Bimini, Bahamas ; it’s abuzz with private cabanas, beach bonfires, and floaty pool parties. Departures March 20, April 17, May 1, December 11, from $1,620 per person .

An adults-oriented ultra-luxury line, Silversea offers both polar-class expedition ships and ocean liners that sail to more than 900 destinations across all seven continents. Fares include all-suite accommodations, butlers, caviar service, gratuities, alcohol, most dining, and some shore excursions (all outings on expedition ships).

The sailing to take this year: Among itineraries, consider cruising Antarctica on board the intimate and glam 200-passenger (in polar regions) Silver Endeavor . With spacious suites, four restaurants, and a passionate expedition team, the ship sails the region between late October 2024 into March 2025. Six-day itineraries include roundtrip flights to Antarctica, bypassing the often-turbulent Drake Passage. Sailing six to 18-days roundtrip from Puerto Williams, Chile, starting at $12,150 per passenger .

On this adults-only cruise line, choose between river , ocean, and expedition vessels. Viking ships sail all seven continents. Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris explore the poles but also sail Niagara, the Great Lakes, and Chilean fjords. While categorized as upper premium, Viking’s ocean and expedition fleet includes many amenities, such as one shore excursion per port, all dining, afternoon tea, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, spa Thermal Suite access, WiFi, and 24-hour room service.

The sailing to take this year: Since Viking is Norwegian, start with a “Viking Homelands” cruise. The 15-day voyages on various 930-passenger ocean-going sister ships sails between Stockholm and Bergen, Norway, and visits six countries including Poland, Denmark, and Germany. The packed itinerary includes sailing fjords and hiking remote Swedish islands, to touring Berlin and Copenhagen . Departures from May 3, 2024 to August 36, 2024; from $7,999 per person.

SeaDream Yacht Club

Pajamas embroidered with your name, sleeping under the stars on Balinese Dream Beds, candlelit dinners under the stars, water sports from the ships’ marina with a slide into the sea—there are so many allures of the adults-oriented, privately-owned 112-passenger Sea Dream I and Sea Dream II . The extensively remodeled luxury ships feel like exclusive yachts, with crew quickly learning your personal preferences. Elegant staterooms and suites offer amenities like organic bath toiletries, plush robes, and 24-hour room service. Stellar cuisine includes raw, plant-based, and organic selections with included wine pairings.

The sailing to take this year: The mega-yachts primarily cruise the Med and Caribbean, with standouts like Sea Dream I ’s seven-day “Secluded Southern Spain and Morocco” itinerary from Lisbon to Málaga . Excursions include a Seville, Spain , overnight with flamenco performance, visit to an Algarve, Portugal , fishing village with wine-tasting and exploring historical Cordoba, Spain . Departs May 13, 2024, from $7,699 per passenger .

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Adults-oriented Uniworld has a stunning fleet of 17 river cruise ships . Awash in antiques, custom fabrics, and original art, the vessels resemble luxurious European boutique hotels rather than typical riverboats. Each possesses its own vibrant personality, reflecting the waters it sails. Count handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, marble baths with Asprey toiletries, and towel warmers among posh amenities. Alcohol, farm-to-table dining, airport transfers, excursions, gratuities, and wellness classes are included, and often-local entertainment. These posh boats sail throughout Europe and Asia , as well as Peru , with some offering land or rail extensions.

The sailing to take this year: Beloved by oenophiles, S.S. Bon Voyage’s Brilliant Bordeaux sails eight days roundtrip Bordeaux, France on three rivers, promising multiple wine tastings, and village and heritage walking tours. Departing March 31, 2024 to October 27, 2024 from $3,599 per person .

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A cruise line for every type of traveler: How to choose the right one for you

• Cruise lines have their own identities and areas of focus, and some lend themselves more to certain vacation types than others.
• Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line are solid options for families.
• Aurora Expeditions, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises offer trips with a spirit of exploration at their core.

No matter what kind of vacation you're planning , there's likely a cruise for you.

Whether you want to spend your trip kayaking and scuba diving or prefer to lounge on a sun deck sipping a cocktail, cruise lines have a wide range of offerings. But not every line or ship is right for every passenger.

Cruise brands have their own identities and areas of focus, and some lend themselves more to certain vacation types than others (amenities can also vary from ship to ship within the same line). Here's what to know.

Best cruise line for families

▶ Royal Caribbean International ships have an array of onboard offerings for kids and adults. The line's most recent addition, Icon of the Seas , for example, has been billed as the ultimate family vacation .

The vessel – the largest cruise ship in the world – has an entire neighborhood designed for young families, a large water park and activities ranging from a FlowRider surf simulator to Crown's Edge, where guests can walk more than 150 feet above the ocean. The line's Bahamas private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, offers plenty of thrills and places to chill , too.

▶ Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a range of activities like free-fall dry slides, go-kart tracks, and high-caliber stage shows. Disney Cruise Line draws on a huge catalogue of stories to bring magic to life on the water, with character appearances, themed dining and special events like Marvel Day at Sea .

▶ Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises also cater to families, and Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are solid options for multigenerational travelers. Mainstream cruise lines generally have kids clubs that are included in the fare, as well.

Best cruise line for adventure and expeditions

Adventure seekers may want to consider expedition ships and lines that offer sailings to less common destinations such as Antarctica .

▶ Aurora Expeditions offers a range of activity-centric itineraries, including Zodiac boat outings, kayaking, snowshoeing and more. Celebrity Cruises, meanwhile, has a vessel designed  especially for the Galapagos Islands .

▶ Operators like HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) , Lindblad Expeditions and Silversea Cruises also offer trips with a spirit of exploration at their core.

Best cruise line for letting loose

▶ Virgin Voyages offers adults-only sailings and a unique onboard atmosphere with its immersive Scarlet Night celebration and innovative performances . There is also no main dining room or buffet, with a focus on a variety of different food and drinks instead.

▶ Guests can also find parties on other lines, such as Carnival . But the length of the sailing and the time of year play a role in a cruise's vibe. Spring break cruises, for instance, may be rowdier than times when school is in session.

▶ Parties can take different forms, too. Cunard Line , for example, hosts formal gala nights .

Best cruise for rest and relaxation

Upscale cruise lines can lend themselves to a more relaxed and pampering experience. Guests are less likely to encounter rock-climbing walls or ice-skating rinks but will find amenities like pools and carefully curated dining. The following operators are all in that category:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Oceania Cruises
• The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

However, even on mainstream lines, guests can often get away from the bustle of the ship in onboard spas and adults-only areas. Luxe ship-within-a-ship concepts like Norwegian's The Haven or MSC's Yacht Club can also offer a more intimate, laid-back experience.

What should I pack for a cruise?: Here are 5 essential items to bring

Best lines for river cruising

River cruising tends to be small-scale and destination-focused.

▶ European river itineraries from lines like AmaWaterways, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Viking often stop at a mix of marquee and less-visited ports, so guests aren't fighting crowds the whole time.

▶ In the U.S., American Cruise Lines offers a diverse selection of itineraries, from sailings on the Columbia and Snake Rivers to round-trip cruises from Washington, D.C. Viking also has a ship purpose-built for the Mississippi River .

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .