The joys of cruising extend far beyond value for money, endless onboard activities, decadent culinary experiences and new and exciting ports of call. Quite simply and perhaps most importantly, setting sail on a great ocean liner or luxury river cruise can open up the world in ways that land travel simply cannot for seniors.
Who said the oldies can't have any fun!
Accessibility For All
With so many of the finer details taken care of, a cruise is often one of the most satisfying and enjoyable holiday experiences for the elderly or those with limited mobility.
Most ships feature wheelchair accessible cabins and suites designed with wider doors, roll-in showers and other special features. Even the most remote or seemingly inaccessible ports of call don't pose a problem when cruising.
Royal Caribbean utilise transfer vehicles fitted with lift ramps and even scooter hire to ensure all passengers have the opportunity to see and explore as many destinations as possible in their own way.
Most cruise companies allow service dogs onboard
Service dogs are also welcomed onboard, provided they are up to date with their vaccinations and documentation (though they may not be permitted to disembark at all ports). Ships have also been designed to incorporate Braille in public areas, as well as Assisted Listening Services.
A higher staff-to-guest ratio on cruises with APT guarantee the needs of limited mobility passengers are taken care of with greater attention to detail to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
With on-board entertainment widely available to all guests, there's no reason to have to miss out on anything. Flying down the waterslide may not be an option, but spa treatments, evening shows and cocktail making classes – to name a few – will all prove to be very satisfying pastimes.
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Safe, Easy Travel
For many, it's easy enough to pack a bag, book a flight and re-emerge in a remote city, but that's simply not an option for those with mobility issues.
Cruising awards the ability to unpack once and let your mammoth, floating home away from home sail you to far-flung destinations without having to lug around suitcases. As a bonus, cruising also allows extended family groups to reconnect, with exciting pastimes on offer for the youngest to the oldest relatives.
Cruising is great for multi-generational family holidays
When it comes to shore excursions, cruise passengers benefit from organised group tours with experienced local guides that can unearth a destination far better than any guide book. Led by expert guides, you could find yourself exploring back streets and immersed in ancient cultures and traditions in a safe and interesting way.
Once-In-A-Lifetime-Experiences
Ever dreamed of exploring the desolate, icy topography of Antarctica, the natural splendour of the Galapagos or the centuries-old ceremonies of Papua New Guinea's native tribes? Some of the world's most fascinating lands, ideologies and experiences can only be accessed by crossing oceans, and adventure cruises present opportunities for these once-in-a-lifetime discoveries.
Almost every corner of the globe can be reached on a cruise
Visiting remote areas like the Kimberly or the rainforest of the Amazon during flood season are not possible – and especially not safe – without a specialist team. Not only can you reach these fascinating places, but guidance by an expedition team provides insight into the natural and cultural aspects, as well as safely leading any onshore excursions.
