Insider Tips for Adults 50-Plus Planning a Cruise

Key takeaways

• Some cruise lines offer discounts, upgrades and special rates for travelers over 55.
• Comprehensive travel insurance can provide medical coverage and trip protection abroad.
• Accessibility features, excursion requirements and travel timing can help shape a better cruise experience.

Summary

Cruise planning for adults 50-plus involves more than choosing a destination. Chris Gray Faust shares practical strategies to help travelers save money, stay protected and select cruises that fit their preferences and mobility needs. From seeking senior discounts to purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, thoughtful preparation can help travelers avoid common issues and enjoy greater peace of mind.

Faust also highlights the importance of reviewing accessibility options, understanding excursion requirements and selecting the right sailing dates. Travelers looking for a more mature atmosphere may prefer off-season voyages, longer itineraries or higher-end cruise lines that attract older passengers and offer educational and social activities.

The key takeaways and summary were created with the assistance of generative AI. An AARP editor reviewed and refined the content for accuracy and clarity.

Full transcript

[0:00:00] Cruises can offer the perfect blend of comfort, entertainment and multicity travel, all without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking.

[0:00:07] That’s why they are especially popular with the 50-plus crowd.

[0:00:11] Here are some insider tips that I have picked up during my years at CruiseCritic.

[0:00:17] We all know cruises can be a bit pricey.

[0:00:20] The good news is that if you’re over 55, some cruise lines offer senior rates, upgrades, deals and discounts.

[0:00:27] These discounts can range from five to 30%, so be sure to check cruise line websites, travel agents, or websites like Priceline or Expedia for cruise deals.

[0:00:36] Speaking of money, here’s one expense that I do recommend: getting comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

[0:00:45] This is particularly important because most health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not provide coverage outside the United States.

[0:00:52] Comprehensive travel insurance not only allows you to cancel or modify your travel plans, but if needed, it protects you in the event of an onboard medical emergency.

[0:01:02] If you’re a little unsteady on your feet, then you want to make sure that you have a cabin in the middle of the ship, and you can think about it this way:

[0:01:08] The middle of the ship is where you have the least amount of rocking from the waves.

[0:01:12] It is the most stable place on board.

[0:01:15] Another thing that you might want to look for if you have mobility issues is an accessible cabin with wider doors, roll-in showers, grab bars and clear floor space.

[0:01:25] But try to book early, as most ships have a limited number of accessible staterooms.

[0:01:30] Here’s something you may not know.

[0:01:31] Larger cruise ships aren’t always able to dock at certain destinations and require smaller boats, known as tenders, to transport passengers between the ship and shore.

[0:01:41] Tenders are not always wheelchair accessible, and sometimes you have to take stairs or a ladder to get down to them.

[0:01:48] So you might want to look for itineraries with ports that don’t rely on tendering to access the shore.

[0:01:54] When you’re planning your excursions, always make sure you read the fine print.

[0:01:58] Most cruise lines provide detailed descriptions highlighting things like the required physical ability level, accessibility information and even age restrictions.

[0:02:07] For example, activities like snorkeling, zip-lining or ATV expeditions sometimes limit participants to those under age 70 or prohibit people with heart conditions.

[0:02:17] Now, if you’re over 70 and still want to take that ATV ride or zip line, I suggest looking for local tour companies at your destination that aren’t part of the cruise line.

[0:02:27] They sometimes are a little less strict.

[0:02:29] My last tip is for those 50-plus cruisers looking to be with others around the same age.

[0:02:35] Consider booking during one of the off-seasons when most families aren’t traveling, or consider higher-end cruise lines for a more mature vibe.

[0:02:43] Cruises that are longer in length tend to skew older as well and often feature enrichment lectures, onboard crafts such as painting or games such as bridge.

[0:02:52] Cruises are a great place to meet people, learn about different destinations and travel the world.

[0:02:58] So whether you’re sailing the high seas with your spouse, friends, alone or on an extended family getaway, there are things that you can do to ensure that your cruise vacation accommodates your needs and maximizes your enjoyment.

[0:03:13] For more travel content, visit aarp.org/travel