Welcome to what we at Champagne Living do to plan for all of our cruise vacations. We wanted to share it with you so that when you are starting to plan a dream cruise vacation you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips (something we wish we had when we first started)! If you’re over the age of 55, retired, and living on social security with a little extra income, cruising can be one of the most enjoyable, affordable, and hassle-free ways to explore the world. Whether your interests lie in history, shopping, gambling, lounging on the beach, or learning new things, this guide will help you plan your perfect itinerary while staying budget-conscious.
Section 1: Researching Your Perfect Cruise
The first step in planning a cruise is researching your options. Cruise lines offer a variety of experiences and destinations, so you’ll want to consider what appeals to you most. Here are a few things to think about:
- Types of Cruises:
- Caribbean Cruises: Perfect for those who love sun, beaches, and warm weather.
- Alaskan Cruises: Ideal for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and cooler climates.
- European River Cruises: For those interested in history, culture, and small cities.
- Transatlantic Cruises: Great for long, leisurely sea days with unique international ports.
NOTE: If you live close to a cruise port you will save as there’s no need for flights, hotels, and more. We live within driving distance of multiple ports here in Florida, so going on a Caribbean Cruise is always our cheapest bet.
- When to Go:
- Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (early spring or late fall) to avoid peak prices and crowded ships.
- Winter cruises to warm destinations (like the Caribbean) are very popular among retirees looking to escape colder weather.
NOTE: We travel during shoulder season as prices can drop by 50% or more. We’ve seen BOGO deals and things you’d normally be upcharged for thrown in just to get people on the ship as it has to leave port whether it’s at capacity or only 25% full.
- Cruise Length:
- Look for 7- to 10-day cruises for a good balance between cost and time. Shorter cruises (3–5 days) are often less expensive but limit the number of destinations.
- Longer cruises, such as 14+ days, can sometimes offer better value on a per-day basis.
Section 2: Planning Your Cruise – Key Considerations
Now that you’ve decided on your destination and cruise type, it’s time to start planning. Here are the steps to ensure a seamless cruise experience:
- Choosing the Right Cruise Line:
- Budget-Friendly Options: Carnival, Norwegian, and MSC Cruises offer affordable options for retirees. These cruise lines often have promotions that cater to senior travelers.
- Luxury and Mid-Range Options: Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, and Princess Cruises are known for attracting an older demographic and providing a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
NOTE: We have traveled on ALL of the cruise lines listed above. Feel free to search our articles to get a more in-depth look at each line or ship.
- Cabin Choices:
- Inside Cabins: These are usually the most affordable option, but they don’t have windows. Consider this if you’re more interested in the destinations and activities.
- Oceanview or Balcony Cabins: These offer great views and outdoor space, but come at a higher cost. Sometimes upgrading can be worth it if you plan to spend time in your room.
- Suites: Ideal if you’re looking for a little luxury and more space. However, they are the most expensive option.
NOTE: We have traveled both with and without a balcony. If your idea of a vacation is just looking out at the ocean with a cup of coffee or glass of wine like we do, a balcony is well worth the additional cost. If you’re more of a joiner when it comes to the experience of doing the many things the ship offers, you may not need to spend the extra money on one.
- Cruise Duration:
- Consider whether you want a short getaway (3–5 days), a week-long adventure, or a more extended experience. Longer cruises often provide better overall value but require more planning.
Section 3: Comparing Rates and How to Save Money
Cruising can be an affordable way to see the world, especially if you’re strategic about when and how you book. Here’s how to save money on your cruise:
- Book Early vs. Last-Minute Deals:
- Booking 6–12 months in advance can secure you the best cabin choices at lower rates. Cruise lines often have early booking promotions.
- Last-minute deals are also available, but they can be risky if you’re set on a specific itinerary or cabin.
NOTE: Because we are so close to the cruise ports AND retired (so can just pick up and go), we have used some of the last-minute deals. We’ve even scored cruises at under $200. We set alerts with some of the sites that list last-minute cruise deals like Vacations to Go which has a 90-day ticker section.
- Use a Travel Agent:
- Travel agents can often find better deals than booking directly. They may also have access to group rates, onboard credits, and other perks.
- Look for Senior Discounts:
- Many cruise lines offer discounts for seniors. Be sure to ask when booking or searching for deals online.
- Avoid Peak Times:
- If you can, avoid holidays and summer breaks when prices are highest. Off-peak times offer lower prices and fewer crowds.
- Compare Port Fees and Taxes:
- Make sure to consider the added costs of port fees and taxes, which vary by destination. These costs can sometimes add significantly to your final bill. Luckily the new pricing requires them to let you know how much it will cost WITH taxes and port charges in advance of booking your trip. Also, remember that each line has a different amount per day that they suggest for tipping.
- Loyalty Programs and Credit Cards:
- If you’re a frequent cruiser, look into cruise line loyalty programs for discounts or bonuses. Additionally, certain travel credit cards may offer points, miles, or perks for booking cruises.
Section 4: What Are Your Interests?
Your cruise experience should align with your interests. Consider what type of vacation you’re looking for:
- History and Culture:
- Look for European river cruises or itineraries that visit ancient cities such as Rome, Athens, or ports in the Mediterranean. Holland America and Viking are known for offering history-rich itineraries.
- Shore excursions may include guided city tours, visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or museum trips.
- Shopping and Markets:
- Caribbean cruises and Mediterranean ports often offer great shopping opportunities, including local crafts, jewelry, and duty-free goods.
- Check out shore excursions that include visits to local markets and artisan shops.
- Gambling and Casinos:
- Some cruise lines, like Norwegian and Carnival, feature large casinos, while others are a bit smaller. You can usually check in advance to see how many tables, slots, etc. the onboard casino has. If you enjoy gambling, make sure the ship has a casino onboard and check if it will be open while the ship is in international waters.
- Beach and Relaxation:
- Caribbean cruises and South Pacific itineraries are perfect for beach lovers. Look for ports like St. Thomas, the Bahamas, or the Dominican Republic that offer pristine beaches and warm waters.
- Some cruises even have private island stops like CocoCay (Royal Caribbean and Celebrity) or Half Moon Cay (Carnival).
- Exploring and Adventure:
- Alaskan cruises or trips through the Norwegian fjords are perfect for adventurers. These often include opportunities for hiking, wildlife tours, and even glacier trekking.
- Learning and Enrichment:
- Many cruise lines, such as Princess and Holland America, offer enrichment programs that include lectures, cooking classes, and art workshops. These programs can enhance your cruise experience with learning opportunities.
Section 5: Extras You May Want to Consider When Booking
When planning your cruise, you may want to consider adding extras to your package. Here are some options to enhance your trip:
- Drink Packages:
- If you enjoy having a cocktail by the pool or wine with dinner, a drink package might be worth considering. Most cruise lines offer various packages ranging from soda-only options to all-inclusive alcohol and specialty coffee packages.
NOTE: Drink packages have gotten expensive, so estimate how much you think you’ll drink and compare the per-drink cost to the package. When I learned that a cruise I was on charged almost $50 per day for their fancy coffee drinks and soda packages, I opted to pay per drink after noting that my daily intake was less than $20.
- Shore Excursions:
- Pre-booking shore excursions through the cruise line can simplify your planning, but they may come at a premium. You can often save by booking independently with local tour operators.
- Wi-Fi Packages:
- If staying connected is important to you, purchase a Wi-Fi package. Some cruise lines offer tiered pricing based on internet speed or the number of devices you’ll use.
NOTE: I have found that most ports and cities have areas with free Wifi. If not, most of the coffee shops in your destination will. If you’re only getting Wifi to check emails, waiting until you’re in port can save you money.
- Specialty Dining:
- Most cruises include main dining options including a large dining room, buffet, and burgers & dogs by the pool, but you may want to try specialty restaurants. Many offer gourmet meals or themed experiences at an extra cost.
- Spa and Wellness Packages:
- If you plan to treat yourself with spa treatments, consider booking a wellness package that includes massages, facials, or access to thermal suites. Generally, spa services cost LESS on port days.
- Onboard Credits:
- Some cruise lines offer onboard credit promotions. These credits can be used for shopping, spa treatments, or shore excursions, effectively reducing your overall cost.
Section 6: Sample Pre-Planned Itineraries for Baby Boomers
To make things even easier, here are a few sample itineraries tailored to the interests of baby boomers:
- Caribbean Relaxation: 7-day cruise starting from Miami, visiting St. Thomas, Nassau, and Cozumel. Shore excursions include beach days, a historical tour of Nassau, and shopping in St. Thomas.
- Recommended Cruise Line: Carnival or Norwegian (affordable with lots of beach excursions).
- Alaskan Wilderness: 10-day cruise departing from Seattle, with stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay. Enjoy wildlife tours, scenic helicopter rides, and onboard enrichment lectures.
- Recommended Cruise Line: Holland America (known for its educational programs).
- Mediterranean History and Culture: 12-day cruise departing from Barcelona, stopping in Rome, Athens, and Istanbul. Shore excursions include visits to the Colosseum, the Acropolis, and the Hagia Sophia.
- Recommended Cruise Line: Viking or Princess (perfect for history lovers).
Cruising can be the perfect vacation for those of us who are older seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment without breaking the bank. With careful planning, you can find a cruise that matches your budget, interests, and desired level of comfort. We hope this helps you on your way to booking the cruise of your dreams!
Bon voyage!
