Some of the best cruise lines for seniors also happen to be some of the luxurious cruise lines. This doesn’t mean that seniors can’t have a good time on a Carnival cruise or a Disney cruise, but chances are, cruise lines such as Cunard Line , home of the Queen Mary 2, and Crystal Cruises, will have more activities that appeal to the mature set.
The environment onboard the world’s most luxurious cruise lines can be lively, but you won’t find large families with small children, groups of wild 20-something singles or youngish couples. What you will find is a mix of mature couples, small groups of friends, and singles that enjoy adventure excursions, exotic places, and pampering. Cunard Line destinations include: the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Northern Europe, Canada/New England, and the Canary and Atlantic Islands. Cunard Line also features world cruises and transatlantic crossings.
Besides the world famous Queen Mary 2 – “the grandest, most magnificent ocean liner ever built” – Cunard Line’s other world famous vessels include the Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Victoria. Queen Elizabeth 2 has carried more than two million voyagers and she ranks as Cunard’s longest serving express liner. Queen Elizabeth 2 also currently holds the title as the most famous ship in the world. The 90,000-ton Queen Victoria is the latest ocean liner to join Cunard’s fleet. Her maiden season began in 2008.
Onboard Cunard’s cruise ships, guests can expect black tie events, world-class dining, live jazz performances, elaborate wine bars, and Cabaret performances. Cunard Line features the largest ballrooms at sea, as well as golfing, basketball courts, paddle tennis, shuffle board, a planetarium, tasting seminars, and museum exhibits. Guests will also appreciate the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, the only SpaClub at sea. The SpaClub offers classic Stone Massage, Rasul Ceremony, Ayurvedic treatments, Thai treatments, pedicures, makeovers, hairstyling, and the rejuvenating experience of the Cunard Line’s unique AquaTherapy Centre and Thermal Suite.
For more information about Cunard Line visit the official website at www.cunard.com.
Crystal Cruise destinations include: Africa, Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, the Caribbean, Grand Americas, the Mediterranean, the Mexican Riviera, Northern Europe, the Panama Canal, and South America. Crystal Cruises also has trans-ocean crossings and world cruises. Onboard, guest will have access to casinos, spas, seminars, shopping, and more. Wine tastings are wildly popular as well as going to the movies, dancing, hanging out at the piano bar, Broadway-style shows, and more.
Crystal features two luxurious ships: Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. The 50,000-ton, six-star Crystal Symphony holds 940 guests, making it one of the most spacious cruise ships at sea. Amenities include “grand lounges, full-service fitness facility, Crystal casino, Feng Shui-inspired spa, 360 degree teak Promenade Deck, two pools, Jacuzzi, award-winning cuisine and entertainment, and elegantly appointed staterooms most with private verandahs.”
Crystal Serenity is 68,000 tons and it is capable of serving 1,080 guests. Crystal Serenity is the largest ship in Crystal Cruises’ fleet and it has one of the highest space-per-guest ratios at sea, just like her sister ship. This is a definite plus for seniors looking for more personalized service. Crystal Serenity also has the same amenities as her sister ship as well as newer dining venues such as “Tastes,” “Silk Road,” and “The Sushi Bar.” Crystal Serenity also features a number of private adventures, extended land programs, and group adventure shore excursions. For more information about Crystal Cruises visit the official website at www.crystalcruises.com.
Other excellent cruise lines for seniors include Holland America Line and Oceania Cruises. Holland America Line is currently in its third century and it features a white-gloved staff, a laid-back environment, and luxurious interiors. These elements have appealed to seniors for centuries. Oceania Cruises’ small ships, number of ports, and the “country-club casual” ambiance also appeals to seniors. For more information about Holland America Line visit the official website at www.hollandamerica.com and for Oceania Cruises visit the official website at www.oceaniacruises.com.