Seniors are very happy that there are cruises specifically for them. If they want to go on a cruise with their families for an occasion or reunion, it is expected that there will be the noise and hub-bub of youngsters running around. However, if seniors want to go and relax in what can be described as a floating luxury resort with entertainment and gourmet cuisine prepared especially for them, a senior cruise is definitely the answer.

Theme cruises add to the fun. There are those cruises that feature health and fitness with physicians on board to conduct workshops. Other themes are big band music played every night, tournaments of different kinds, and even a murder mystery cruise where you are the sleuth. An expedition cruise is usually in a smaller ship that can navigate the narrow passages to see exotic out-of-the-way places and nature. Often there are naturalists on board to give slide shows and lectures.

Many cruise lines give discounts to seniors over age 55, so be sure to ask about that when you go to book your cruise. Also see if they give AARP or AAA or other discounts. Other ways to save on the price of a cruise are to go during the off season. If you can go at the last minute, there are bargain offers that ships offer to avoid vacancies. If you have to travel to the port, check on a package that will include your transportation and a possible overnight hotel stay, if necessary.

Check with Exploritas, which is the new name for Elderhostel. It is the biggest adult non-profit educational travel organization. They can give information on their Adventures Afloat which include the modern ocean liners as well as smaller ships and riverboats.

Pampering and many amenities exist on board to make seniors feel very welcome and special on their cruise. Wellness programs and senior-friendly exercises and spa activities are often offered. Dietary considerations are also catered to with any type of specialty requirements happily adhered to for the welfare of the passengers. New laws make more handicapped accessibility available for those seniors who do not think they will be able to go on a cruise. There are wheelchair-accessible cabins, often a wheelchair gangway mechanism, and sometimes Braille elevator buttons and other features.

If you don’t want to disembark at the ports when docked, there are continuous activities for those who would prefer to stay on the ship and relax and enjoy the “floating hotel”.

Touring at the different ports, with a possible overnight stay at a hotel booked in advance, can add to the experience and certainly will allow interesting sightseeing that can also be arranged when you book your cruise. The various destinations offer many attractions that will enrich your holiday and make it an unforgettable time to remember and to later share the memories with family and friends.

The best advertisement for the cruise lines is word of mouth by satisfied passengers who can spread the word about their wonderful time on board the ship.

read more about senior cruises here