A cruise is one of the best ways to explore the world. Seniors may find a cruise appealing for multiple reasons. These include visiting multiple destinations, a myriad of dining and entertainment options, and plenty of activities on board.  

You can make the most of your cruise trip by asking these five important questions: 

What is accessibility like on the ship?

If you have mobility issues, you might want to make sure you can easily get around the ship, access the elevators and public areas like dining & entertainment rooms. You can also request for a wheelchair accessible stateroom if needed. In case a wheelchair stateroom is not available or you don’t need one, you can book a room close to the elevators that let you access public spaces where you’ll be spending more time. 

What are the itineraries like?

The best time for seniors to enjoy a cruise is the month right before and after the peak season for a destination. Since retirees are not tied down to a limited vacation time, they can opt for longer trips. Generally, experienced travelers want to learn more about the place both during the day and night. If you’re a seasoned traveler, choose an itinerary that has overnight stays in ports of call with shore excursions offered at night.

Can I stay health-conscious on the ship?

If you’re following any health and fitness routine for your wellbeing, ensure you continue to keep up the schedule even when on the cruise. Check if the ship can accommodate any of your specific dietary restrictions. While most ships have gyms, you may want to enquire if there are any fitness classes available, where a trainer can help you with a series of exercises and suggest modifications depending on your lifestyle and abilities.

Are there any educational opportunities on senior cruises?

If you like to keep your mind engaged and active by learning new things, ensure there are plenty of educational opportunities on board, like hobby classes, demonstrations and lectures. 

Are there medical personnel on the ship?

One of the most critical aspects to take into consideration on a cruise is ensuring easy access to medical care should you need it. Check if your cruise ship has a doctor on board. However, cruise ships don’t have pharmacies on board, so make sure you bring your medication in your carry-on handbag if flying. Carry extra medication too, in case you experience any delays on the way back home.