Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class and Oasis Class ships feature some of the most up to date amenities at sea, including those for disabled people. In this article, Ill show you the top 10 best Alaska cruises for seniors that will be enjoyable and memorable. The same applies to destinations like. Cruise Critic is not responsible for content on external web sites. If you require the regular use of a wheelchair during the cruise, you would need to bring your own or rent one from a service provider. If anyone has cruised on Princess - (combination land, water, train ride), I would love to hear about your experience. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Regent only has a few accessible cabins, so make sure you book yours in advance of your trip - likely as soon as you book, just to be on the safe side. Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour This tour is wheelchair accessible and scooters are allowed onboard as the main deck area is all one level. Your email address will not be published. Glaciers advancing and retreating in an endless cycle of rebirth. Regent Seven Seas dining options are top notch and plentiful, with all dining options included in the fare. Customers can arrange cruise mobility rentals 24/7 by booking online or calling 1-888-441-7575. Visit Seward, Skagway and the breathtakingly beautiful Hubbard Glacier. With so much of the state untouched and untamed, it is no surprise that Alaskas trails, beaches, and waterfalls appeal to the adventurous, Seward, situated on the Kenai Peninsula south of Anchorage, is a popular tourist destination. Here is our pick of the best. Magellan only has one and Marco Polo, two. For more information about our upcoming Christian cruises, call us today at 1-888-771-8717 or email us at info@livingpassages.com. The friendly Europe accessible trip planners at Sage Traveling use our expertise in European accessible travel to create custom accessible holidays for people with all types of mobility issues, including wheelchair and scooter users, cane and walker users, and senior travelers. These cruises are only available on Holland Americas mid-sized ships, which are the ideal size for getting close to Alaskas natural beauty. Disabled visitors to Europe will encounter challenges during their travels, but nearly all can be avoided or overcome . All of Celebritys luxurious cruise ships have accessible staterooms, and each is specially designed for travelers with disabilities. These tours run wheelchair accessible buses when requested in advance. Program? Rugged luxury geared towards families, individuals or small groups, we cater to every skill level and tailor for flexibility! Holland America cruise line (HAL) has long been popular with seniors, both for the destinations where they travel and entertainment options onboard. The same applies to destinations like Greenland and Iceland, South America, and the South Pacific. Public areas feature open and inviting spaces with gradual inclines for easy access, as do our public bathrooms. These bus tours allow you to experience all Denali National Park has to offer, from spruce forest and tundra, to bears, Dall sheep, caribou, and moose. 800-460-4518 call us; Free Brochure free brochure; Special Offers; Travel Advisors My Account; Logout; menu. View our itinerary pages for more exclusive 2023 offers, including family and solo traveler savings. Additional features, like lowered clothes bars in the closet, a roll-in shower with handheld showerheads, grab bars, and a fold-down shower bench are standard in accessible rooms, as are lower sinks and vanities, higher toilets, and ramped thresholds in the bathroom. It's a common cruise line and can be a solid opportunity for a wheelchair cruise, a cruise for seniors with disabilities, or even cruising with kids, as Carnival has a kid's club and many activities are geared toward children . Alaska is a pristine state with unparalleled natural beauty that draws thousands of travelers from all over the world every year. Why American Cruise Lines Is Great for Seniors: All of the ships in the American Cruise Lines fleet have been built at the company's own American shipyard and the crew are also American. P&O City Breaks - UK & Mini Cruises UK Full board City Breaks, Countryside Cruise liner By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, What It's Like Sailing the Great Lakes With Viking, What to Know About HAL's Private Island, Half Moon Cay, Regent Seven Seas' Loyalty Program Explained, What It's Like to Sail American Queen's First Expedition Ship, On AmaWaterways, the Transformative Impact of Wellness. If you're looking at a well-known Alaskan city that's safe, head to Juneau. What's interesting is that although this cruise line offers luxury service, they are listed in the class of small ships. However, we found the standard of the food to be dissapointing, the main difference in mainline cruises and, Cruises for the Disabled Cruise Reviews to Alaska on Other Cruise Ships. Indulge on decadent food prepared by top chefs Experience impeccable service and pampering Enjoy overnight stays in ports around the world These bus tours allow you to experience all Denali National Park has to offer, from spruce forest and tundra, to bears, Dall sheep, caribou, and moose. Men of a certain age are onboard many cruises to serve as gentlemen hosts, socializing, dining and dancing with the single ladies onboard. Celebrity ships are updated and stylish, with spacious accommodations and a variety of dining options, such as the Grand pernay Restaurant. Welcome to your Alaskan cruise. After 12 adventure-filled days of up-close photo encounters with calving glaciers, grizzly bears, moose, singing whales, bald eagles, Dall sheep, and that mellow, neighborly creature known as "The Local," our Celebrity Alaska Cruise tour was already the vacation of a lifetime. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, Terrific itinerary and amazing service on NCL Jewel. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. The center is fully accessible. Youll love that heated floor as your ship journeys from Vancouver up the inside passage, where you can take in an abundance of magnificent sites. Passenger trains are wheelchair accessible in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Travel with Alan had a killer deal on a 21 day Panama trip. Dara is a travel writer, political news junkie, and part-time actress. Each motorcoach can accommodate up to two wheelchair passengers at one time. For the hard-of-hearing, there's a hearing loop facility at Southampton cruise terminals and at the reception desks on each ship, as well as an 'infra-red' hearing support system in some of the show lounges. We also offer extra assistance for those who want to reach areas of the ship that are not easily accessible. They can help you rent wheelchairs and scooters to get on and off the ship, as well as provide accessible accommodations if you let them know your needs ahead of time. More active senior cruisers can enjoy complimentary bicycles and themed golf cruises. The ships pharmacy is stocked with basic medications, including seasickness medicine, aspirin, and other common remedies. You'll find both wheelchair-accessible cabins and elevators to all passenger decks. Accessible shore excursions are not offered on Adonia. Although there are many stops for photo opportunities, less mobile guests on Denali Highway Jeep Excursions can still enjoy the sights from the jeep. All access to the quayside is by a narrow, stepped gangway. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. http://www.seward.com Look under Top Questions and read thru some of the 2012 trip reports to get some ideas for an itinerary. Azamara Club Cruises has been named one of the top cruise lines for seniors, and one of the reasons for this honor is that they provide senior discounts. Customer Support Hours. Your dining options include flavors from all over the world at restaurants like Manfredis Italian and the Chefs Table. Related: What It's Like Sailing the Great Lakes With Viking. They tried to fix it by blowing hot air around the cabin! THE 25 BEST Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska (with Prices) on Cruise Critic Cruises for the Disabled to Alaska We found you 192 cruise s Filter Sort: Popularity Cruisers' Choice Norwegian. Many visitors opt to experience the park's coastal fjords, tidewater glaciers, and abundant marine wildlife aboard a day cruise. With a combination of advanced planning and the special features available on the following ships, a physical disability should not prevent you from cruising. Take a helicopter ride over the city to see whales playing in the freezing waters, or go into the forest for a closer look at flora and fauna. There may be local culinary experiences like a lobster bake while on American Cruise Lines coastal New England cruise, or a Cajun cooking demonstration on Mississippi River cruises. Seniors who want to get their dressy duds out of the closet will be in heaven; the most casual nights onboard still require a cocktail dress. This includes the Anchorage Museum, which can be visited at your own pace. . Royal Caribbean International is a leader in providing disabilities-friendly ships that can accommodate those with special needs. Wheelchair accessible toilets are on Deck 10, by the Avon restaurants, and Deck 7, by the Neptune Lounge. Depending on the ship, specialty restaurants include the French fare at Le Dame by Relais & Chateaux; Indochine and Seishin, serving Asian-inspired cuisine; or La Terrazza, honoring the Italian heritage of the family-owned cruise line. For those with a disability, cruises offer a hassle-free and relaxing way to enjoy a far-flung holiday. The hop-on, hop-off buses used by American Queen Voyages continue the leisurely paced experience, allowing passengers to go at their own pace (a near-perfect option on Mississippi River cruises for seniors). There's a special seating area in each theatre for wheelchairs, and across the fleet wheelchair-accessible loos are featured in all the main public areas. Passengers are allowed to bring on their own equipment but it must be approved by the cruise line in advance. Forced to move during Panama lock run Missed two hours of Panama Canal Screaming balcony door all night Rattling, We wife and I booked this cruise as a getaway! Seniors, experience an Alaska cruise in 2023. LEARN MORE Denali Exclusives Combine your Alaska cruise with an enriching multi-night escorted land tour. THE 25 BEST Senior Cruises to Alaska (with Prices) on Cruise Critic Alaska Senior Cruises We found you 211 cruise s Filter Sort: Popularity Regatta Sep 26, 2024 7 Night Alaska. Before you book your cruise, you can review the ships deck plans to see where theyre located and select one thats nearest to the public areas youre most interested in. Many can also accommodate limited mobility issues with advanced notice. These experts act as guides as well as historians, and they provide a local perspecitve. We chose the trip for the itinerary: starting in Vancouver, to Alaska, then south to San Francisco and LA - a nice variety of ports and scenery. The ship itself was immaculate and all the staff were very courteous. For smaller crowds, cruise during shoulder season months in April or May. What to Wear on a Cruise: The Ultimate Guide, The Complete Guide to Taking a Cruise With a Toddler, The Only Cruise Packing List Youll Ever Need, 17 Invaluable Cruise Tips From a 20-Year Cruise Veteran, What to Expect Your First Time on a Cruise, Solo Cruises: The Ultimate Guide to Cruising Solo, 13 Sustainable Shore Excursions to Add to Your Bucket List, Exciting Cruise Nightlife Options on Celebrity, 2022 Celebrity Cruises, Inc. Ships Registry: Malta and Ecuador. Seward also has many other sightseeing opportunities. Regent is our favourite cruise line and we chose this cruise to coincide with the celebration (a year late due to Covid) of our Golden Wedding Anniversary.Having flown into Calgary we stayed over before transferring to the Rimrock Hotel enjoying a day in the Banff national park before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for a two day journey from Banff to Vancouver prior to our Alaskan cruise. However, some needs require adequate time to prepare for a guest's arrival. 1: Alaskan Cruise with Holland America. The line also has gentlemen hosts to act as dancing and dining companions for single ladies. We upgraded to a balcony suite. Excursions are included in each port, with a focus on food and beverage tours and educational explorations of each destination. Weekend getaways and great cruise specials. Wi-Fi is complimentary, and each ship has several libraries and chart rooms for browsing. The Cunard cruise fleet appeals to traditionalists, but that doesn't mean the experience isn't modern and fun. Shore excursions to historical sites and museums are common. The Silver Shore Concierge can make arrangements for individually curated tours as well as Mid-Cruise Land Adventures tours that are arranged between ports of call so cruisers can meet the ship at the next destination. Alaska cruises are popular for travelers of all ages, especially senior cruisers and multigenerational families. Cruise on Six Star Luxury Liners! In general, the cruise lines will only allow the military discount to be applied to the cabin which contains the member of the military or to just the military member themselves. One of the most luxurious cruise lines available, Holland America goes above and beyond to show its guests a great time. 907.373.3494 Premium 10-Day Tours 10 Day Grand Discovery Silversea Alaska cruises allow active seniors to enjoy hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac tours with the onboard expedition team included in the fare. American Cruise Lines sails two types of riverboats -- traditional and modern -- as well as coastal cruise ships. Ocean and River Cruises. Olsen's fleet of four classic, mid-sized ships could be the answer. Chinitna Bay National Park Bear Viewing Flight, Traveling with Limited Mobility in Alaska. Consider private journeys, which are highly personalized excursions, small group tours, or destination tours that take you straight to a citys most iconic sights and landmarks in a wheelchair-accessible van. Onboard, expect a contemporary setting with a choice of restaurants and plenty of entertainment, with everything geared to the tastes of British passengers. DH and I are hoping to go on our first Alaska cruise next May 2024. A lot of cruises depart from British ports, so there's no need to fly, and there are some long voyages in winter to exotic destinations, again, with no need to board an aircraft. Viking River cruises include bucket-list experiences. Cruises are, in my opinion, the easiest way to take a vacation without too much physical exertion which makes them an obvious choice and perfect for many senior citizens. There are not only accessible accommodations on offer but also accessible excursions! 6 Cruise Memories That Will Warm Your Heart, Accessible Cruise Ships (Photo: Ivan Cholakov/Shutterstock). Dialysis stations are located onboard, although only ambulatory peritoneal dialysis can be administered. Princess ships offer a variety of activities for seniors, including multiple restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, shows to see, spas, and numerous areas to simply sit and relax while sailing the ocean. The deal was a $750 credit for both of us plus beverage package. Tauck river cruises are just one part of a travel company that made its name in land tours. At every port destination on your cruise itinerary, you can book shore excursions that cater to your specific interests and activity level. Guests using peritoneal dialysis should have all the required solutions and equipment delivered to the ship at least two hours prior to sailing on embarkation day. See the original Klondike Trail of 1898 worn into the rocks, a permanent tribute to the thousands of souls who passed this way in search of fortune. Legal Information | Privacy Policy. Cruise travellers with disabilities have concerns that other cruisers might never consider. The Constellation Class cruises New England, Hudson River, Puget Sound and Alaska. Celebrity welcomes service dogs aboard for seniors with disabilities. Heavy rocking and vibrations. And with Celebrity Cruises Open Access, you can go straight to your stateroom before exploring the ship. Not only are there accessible staterooms, but there are even accessible excursions! Youll find accessible seating in most of the ships lounges and theaters, making it easier for seniors with disabilities to enjoy the journey. There are accessible suites as well as suites with a gorgeous balcony where you can enjoy your morning cup of coffee. Youll be impressed and amazed by whats aboard these ultra-luxurious ships. Youll appreciate learning about Alaskas rich history and Native traditions, feasting on some of the best Alaskan seafood, and visiting places you never thought youd see! CMV operates a fleet of older ships from its home base, London's Tilbury, as well as other U.K. ports. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway, or an extended vacation, an accessible Mediterranean cruise from Rome is a great way to see some of Europe's finest cities, experience fantastic accessible shore excursions, and relax knowing your cruise ship is waiting to take you to your next destination! Because the ship is a new build, accessible cabins will be custom-designed, rather than adapted. Extravagant Sunday brunches include Champagne and caviar. All Rights Reserved. Food and entertainment onboard the ship reflect the areas where the ship is sailing, with guest entertainers and lecturers coming on board at various times during the cruise. Likely black mold! Rates are in GBP and valid for UK and Ireland residents only. > Alaska. Listed prices may have blackout dates, qualifications or restrictions. Passengers need to share the type of oxygen cylinder, quantity, and delivery schedule before boarding. The Denali Husky Homestead tour, which takes guests to a working sled dog kennel, requires light walking and standing. Youll to spend more time in each destination than with other cruise lines. The expanding coastal fleet takes cruisers on Alaska small-ship cruises, as well as cruises in the Great Lakes, the Coastal waters of the U.S. and Canada, and even the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Enrichment is a standout on American Cruise Lines, with a lecturer on every cruise. Dont let this discourage you from exploring this town full of amazing views. Travelers with physical limitations, but who do not rely on a wheelchair or scooter, have many options. Viking Ocean cruises also offer educational extras, including cooking classes at The Kitchen Table. Find a Cruise; Mississippi River Cruises; Why Cunard Is Great for Seniors: Cunards Queen Mary 2 is built for leisurely sea days, with a full array of lectures, films and onboard activities, as well as one of the largest libraries at sea. Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. If you need assistance getting to the boat, please contact us in advance. Aurora is an older ship, launched in 2000, with a more intimate feel, as it only carries 1,874, but there's still a good selection of 18 wheelchair-accessible cabins, from insides to balcony accommodation. It was our first time to Alaska and we are already planning another so we can, We got a deal on this cruise because they canceled their Tokyo/Vancouver cruise in 2020 because of Covid. Seniors who like the arts and the finer things in life may enjoy a cruise to Alaska on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. New Directions is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization providing high quality national, and international travel vacations and holiday programs for people with developmental disabilities. These hour-long flights work well for travelers with limited mobility, although they do require two or three steps up into a small plane. The Endicott Arm scenic cruising was a fabulous day. These classic vessels have a loyal following and the cruise line is known for its competitive pricing. These cruises offer a variety of activities and amenities that are perfect for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Alaska. These tours run wheelchair accessible buses when requested in advance. The warm weather is a great appeal and many different cruise lines offer trips in the Caribbean so there's a lot of choice. 1-808-690-9990. And Princess' Midnight Sun Express railcars offer wheelchair. The line does warn, however, that its wheelchair accessible cabins are adapted from the original specification, rather than purpose-built, so depending on your needs, ask very specific questions when you book. Call us at 1-888-441-7575 or book online. In addition, average cruise prices are updated nightly. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. All of Silversea's ships (except expedition vessels) accommodate wheelchairs and scooters. Wheelchair bound travelers can also experience Alaska's vast backcountry on a narrated bus tour inside Denali National Park. Your underneath the Spinnaker Lounge which goes on until 11PM and the maintainable work goes in until 12.30 AM, but thats not the, We lucked out with this cruise. At CruiseExperts.com, you can find the best cruises for seniors with destinations that include North, South and Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa, New Zealand and Australia. Tauck also often includes pre- and post-cruise trips within its fare with logistics covered. The all-inclusive pricing covers all-suite accommodations, gourmet dining, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and wines, onboard lectures, gratuities and -- on expedition cruises only -- excursions. For smaller crowds, cruise during shoulder season months in April or May. Cabins with sunrooms and windows that lower for fresh air, as opposed to balconies, mean that senior cruisers can stay cozy, even in chilly conditions. European River Cruises are great for seniors who want an easy way to see many countries in one trip. Ship was in good shape, staff was excellent, food ok, entertainment ok with a couple of excellent people. Partly because of the weather, the ping pong table, pickleball court, and rock climbing wall, This cruise was our third cruise since the restart. Then select the date for . Assistance dogs are permitted, although not emotional support dogs. On Boudicca, there are four wheelchair-adapted Terrace Balcony cabins on the Lido Deck (7) but no wheelchair accessible toilets in the public areas of the ship. Equipment like commodes, raised toilet seats and shower stools can be supplied if you request it at the time of booking. The ship only has one accessible toilet in the public areas, outside the Neptune Lounge on Deck 6. The boats cannot accommodate motorized wheelchairs or scooters. Ok, where to start: Soaked cabin floor, had to move. Born in south, she spent her childhood hopping around the U.S., even venturing as far away as Kodiak, Alaska. Why HAL Is Great for Seniors: THolland Americas shore excursion program, EXC In-Depth Voyages, appeals to well-traveled individuals looking for more comprehensive information about a destination, the local culture and customs. Silversea is famed for its personalized treatment, and more open itineraries. Call a tour coordinator to help plan your Alaska Senior Tours package today. 8. For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. Adapted cabins across the fleet have handrails in the bathroom area, but not the cabin itself. email. Renting a mobility scooter with Scootaround is easy. Why AmaWaterways Is Great for Seniors: Senior cruisers on AmaWaterways will appreciate the extra attention taken to offer tours for every ability. Select staterooms have a five-foot turning radius for easy navigation, while our accessible veranda staterooms have wheelchair-accommodating balconies so you can enjoy the view. Michelle. Current Local Time: Mar 1, 2023 1:25 am HST. Trivia takes place at all hours, and HAL has onboard partnerships with BBC Earth, Lincoln Center, B.B. Book online and take advantage of pre-boarding prices. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of options for seniors who want to see some of the Last Frontiers most beautiful scenery. 23 Senior Citizens Vacation Ideas. Our partners who list cruise pricing on Cruise Critic are required to provide prices for cruise only or cruise packages, per person, double occupancy, and are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. If you want to cruise with CMV and have special needs, it is essential that you talk to the cruise line before booking as every passenger's requirements are assessed individually. And, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Ketchikan Alaska Tours for Seniors. Disabled Cruises in Alaska Disabled Holidays > Accessible Cruises > Alaska Description Wheelchair-accessible cabins book up very quickly so please always book in advance. The onboard pharmacy does not have the ability to fill prescriptions, so make sure to bring a sufficient supply of your medication and place it in your carry-on luggage so that youll have access to it as soon as you board. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The Best Wheelchair Accessible Cruises and Disabled Cruises to Consider. Since I spent a good portion of my childhood living in The Last Frontier, I, There are so many destinations when it comes to Alaskan travel, but one that seems to be at the top of many peoples lists is Anchorage. While most people tend to budget one or two days in Seward on their first Alaska, Best 20 Things To Do in Juneau (Must-Live Experiences), 15 Most Stunning Glaciers in Alaska That Will Take Your Breath Away, Itinerary: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, Whittier, Anchorage, Denali (rail). While onboard, youll be able to sample some Alaskan tastes, such as exquisite salmon and other seafood. On board, youll find beautifully appointed accessible staterooms and public spaces on our easy-to-navigate cruise ships. Silversea Cruise line has smaller ships making your holiday to the Last Frontier less crowded and a much more intimate experience. AmaWaterways has a fleet of 26 river ships, focusing primarily on the Danube and the Rhine rivers in Europe, but also offering sailings in France and Portugal. Alaska Tour & Travel uses cookies to track your trip selections and favorites. Azamara is known for long port visits, fantastic accommodations for its passengers while in port, and a variety of onboard amenities that turn your cruise into a dream holiday. Cruises. From a Princess cruise ship, youll be able to see everything from massive glaciers to wildlife, whether youre lounging on the deck or relaxing in your beautiful suite. Our activity-driven itineraries and majestic beauty are all a part of our adventures. AmaWaterways does allow children over age 8, allowing for multi-generational river cruises with the grandkids as well. You can travel 30 miles on the Natural History Bus Tour, 62 miles on the Tundra Wilderness. Valid on new bookings only, subject to availability, not applicable on airfare or extensions, and may not be combinable with other offers. Everyone on board enjoyed VIP service from the friendly, attentive crew. Assistance dogs are allowed on board cruises where all ports of call fit into the EU's Pet Passport scheme. Enjoy the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary in Ketchikan or go on the Chilkoot Horseback Adventure in Skagway the choices are nearly endless! (Photo by Teddy Sczudlo/Getty Images) Disney. I know, it's early. You can easily and conveniently arrange for the rental of scooters or wheelchairs by calling 888-494-7303 or click here for more information. Our Top 5 Picks for Best Cruises for Seniors: 1. In addition, Arcadia has a number of partially accessible cabins; there's less manoeuvring room in these, so they aren't suitable for full-time wheelchair users. A cruise is also a great way for seniors to journey through scenic swathes of Germany, Austria, and Hungary, courtesy of iconic European waterways such as the Danube and the Rhine.. "River cruises allow you to have a more intimate experience and see more places," the AARP's Gillen points out, referring to itineraries that string together . More information! Cruise Critic is not responsible for content on external web sites. Princess Alaskan Cruises Alaska Full board Cruise liner Explore the rugged Inside Passage and breathtaking Gulf of Alaska, and marvel at spectacular marine life and dazzling glaciers from the vantage of a magnificent Princess cruise ship.