Baby boomers and elderly cruise passengers are challenging to categorize. Seniors are a diverse group, spanning a wide age range (the 50s to 90s), talent level, and hobbies, and we bet the majority believe they are too youthful (or too young at heart) to be dubbed an “older” or “mature” cruiser.
So-called seniors are just as likely to be drinking afternoon tea or listening to an expert discuss archeology as they are speeding down a massive waterslide or entertaining fellow passengers in the karaoke bar.
They can be spotted on a tour bus exploring Paris or dog sledding in Alaska when it’s time to explore a port. They could be traveling alone, as a couple, or as part of a multigenerational group.
However, specific travel issues are especially pertinent to this demographic, such as discounts for cruise tourists 50 and older or the significance of trip insurance and accommodations for people with dietary or mobility restrictions.
If you’re new to sailing or your travel demands are changing as you approach retirement, these cruise recommendations for the over-50 set can help you have a wrinkle-free holiday.
Senior discounts and isolated cabins help you save money.
Through special senior prices or promotions, seniors might obtain discounts unavailable to younger cruisers. Inquire with your travel or booking agent about cruise lines that offer senior discounts.
Norwegian Voyage Line, for example, gives up to $100 off the price of a cruise or a 5% discount if you book at least nine months in advance. The offer is only available to AARP members and valid on certain cruises to Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, and Hawaii; seek sailings with a red “A” mark.
Senior discounts on some cruises are also available from Royal Caribbean Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line for tourists aged 55 and over. Typically, accommodations are meant for double occupancy, and a single traveler pays nearly as much as two individuals.
On the other hand, seniors traveling alone can save money by booking on a ship with single-occupancy accommodations. P&O Cruises’ Azura, for example, has 130-square-foot single cabins with a large single bed and writing desk.
The studio cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line are single accommodations with access to an exclusive studio lounge where lone travelers can connect while enjoying complimentary coffee, espresso, and pastries. Single rooms are becoming more common on the newest cruise ships.
