See the World from a Cruise Ship

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Cruising Through Retirement

One of the most exciting and enlightening ways to see the world

Story and photos by Katy O'Bryan

You’ve saved for the perfect vacation, or taken your retirement and are itching for a well-deserved getaway. In today’s economy, you are likely thinking about your vacation of a lifetime but remaining dedicated to staying within budget.

A perfect way to do this is by boarding a ship and sailing away from all the cares in your world.

On a cruise ship, you can leave trivial things like cooking, cleaning and driving to someone else to manage, so all that needs to occupy your mind is when to reapply sunscreen or what time your dinner reservation is.

Instead of a vacation where the cost of room, food, taxis and more can add unwelcome expenses, cruise vacations are paid for in advance and have plenty of free activities alongside extra opportunities to treat yourself in various ways.

Is bingo on your scorecard? Many cruising outfits offer the beloved hall game nearly every day. Are you itching to pull the arm of a slot machine? Some vacations only allow you one or the other, but onboard a cruise ship you could do both in the same hour if you wish. If your travel companion is a sun-lover but you would rather stay inside playing blackjack, you can each do your own thing and meet for dinner. Or you just might run into each other in your cabin for a mid-day siesta after all of the excitement.

One of the most exciting aspects of a senior citizen cruise experience is the infinite variety of activities for guests of every age.

Whether it is a three day getaway or a month-long, Euro-trek, think well on what you want your vacation to look like because there is a cruise line that offers exactly what you have been dreaming of.

Some cruise lines specialize in “fun” vacations, but that’s not what everyone dreams of. Others offer family friendly atmospheres, while some only allow those 18 years and older to board. You might find that one cruise line stacks events in an all-day nonstop lineup while another centers on a more tranquil atmosphere. Wheather you would rather see an Alaskan glacier in the summer or white sand beaches in the winter, cruising can take you to almost anywhere your imagination desires.

If considering this type of vacation, the best way to start is by enlisting a travel agent. There are local agents that specialize in this type of travel and can help you book so you don’t miss out on any great deals or amenities.

Every single cruise line offers different itineraries, onboard activities and so much more while catering to all forms of ADA needs and medical assistance should you need it.

Leave all your cares at the pier and set sail on the vacation of a lifetime — it’s completely worth it!