Cruising After 60: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
Here's something nobody tells you when you're booking your first cruise at 30: the trip itself doesn't get harder as the years go on. The logistics do. Fortunately, they're easy to manage—you just need to think through a few things before you travel.
Cruising is a wonderful option for mature travelers who want to see the world in comfort, whether that means exploring historic cities, enjoying days at sea, or letting someone else handle the travel logistics.
Not every suggestion in this article will apply to every traveler over 60. Plenty of people in their 60s, 70s, and beyond are as active as ever, while some of these ideas could be just as helpful if you're 40 or 50.
The good news is that none of these changes mean you're "old." They simply mean you're cruising with the body you have today instead of the one you had at 35.
Here are some of the things I've learned from my own travels, along with tips I've developed over the years while helping my clients cruise more comfortably.
Choose Your Cabin Strategically
Where your cabin is located can make a bigger difference than you might expect. If you're sensitive to motion, don't enjoy long walks down endless hallways, or simply appreciate having an elevator nearby, choosing the right cabin is worth a little extra thought before you book.
📌Tip: A midship cabin on a lower deck generally provides the smoothest ride. If walking is a concern, request a cabin close to the elevators when you reserve your cruise.
Dress for Comfort—and the Weather
Warm climates, hot flashes, and night sweats can mean going through more clothing than you planned. The right fabrics can make a big difference, especially on longer cruises.
📌Tip: Pack moisture-wicking, quick-dry clothing whenever possible. Before you sail, check whether your ship offers self-service laundry or only paid laundry service so you can pack accordingly.
Give Yourself More Time in the Morning
Many of us wake earlier than we used to, but we also need a little more time to get moving. Morning medications, stretching, coffee, and a predictable bathroom routine can all become part of the day's schedule.
📌Tip: Set your alarm a little earlier on excursion mornings. On disembarkation day, don't feel pressured to be among the first guests off the ship if giving yourself a little extra time will make for a more relaxed morning.
Plan Around Your Bathroom Routine
It's not something many travel articles mention, but many travelers appreciate planning for it. Coffee or breakfast often signals it's time for a bathroom stop, which can make early excursions or disembarkation mornings feel rushed.
📌Tip: Allow enough time after breakfast before leaving the ship, and take advantage of onboard restrooms before heading ashore.
Be Honest About Excursion Activity Levels
Excursion descriptions are written for the average traveler, but seniors and other travelers may have different preferences when it comes to walking distances, stairs, or uneven terrain. A tour that sounds wonderful on paper may involve more physical activity than you expected.
📌Tip: Read activity levels carefully, and don't hesitate to choose an easier excursion. You'll enjoy a shorter tour far more than spending the day wishing it would end.
Plan Ahead for Medications
Running out of medication or packing it in checked luggage can quickly turn a dream vacation into a stressful one. Not knowing what's disallowed could ruin more than just your vacation.
📌Tip: Always pack medications in your carry-on bag. Bring a written list of both the brand and generic names, and if you use injectable medications, consider carrying a letter from your physician. If anything requires refrigeration, ask your cabin steward about refrigerator access when you board. If you're traveling internationally, it's also worth knowing whether any medications have restrictions where you're visiting. Click here to learn more.
Recover from Travel Before Your Cruise Begins
Long flights and time changes can take longer to recover from than they once did. Arriving on embarkation day also leaves no room for delayed or canceled flights.
📌Tip: Whenever possible, arrive at least one day before your cruise—two or three is even better. If you're prone to swollen feet or ankles, consider wearing graduated compression socks during your flight. They can help improve circulation and reduce swelling. Be sure to walk the aisle periodically and stay well hydrated.
the Sun and Heat
As we age, our skin becomes more sensitive, and some medications increase our sensitivity to the sun without us realizing it.
📌Tip: Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any of your medications increase sun sensitivity. Pack a higher SPF sunscreen than you think you'll need, wear a hat, and drink water before you feel thirsty.
Eat on Your Schedule
Your body may not be on the same dining schedule it was years ago, and that's perfectly okay. Today's cruise ships offer far more flexibility than they once did.
📌Tip: Consider flexible dining if your cruise line offers it. Buffets and specialty restaurants also give you more options when you'd rather eat on your own timetable.
Balance & Footing
Wet pool decks, gangways, tenders, and cobblestone streets can be less forgiving than they once were. Good balance isn't something to take for granted, especially on a moving ship or during a long day ashore.
📌Tip: Pack shoes with good traction instead of choosing them for appearance alone. If you normally use a cane or walking stick, bring it. Some of my clients who aren't as steady on their feet—or who know they'll be walking long distances—rent a manual wheelchair or mobility scooter for their cruise. It's not about giving up independence; it's about conserving your energy so you can enjoy more of your vacation.
Prioritize a Good Night's Sleep
A restful night's sleep makes every cruise day better. Noise from entertainment venues, neighboring cabins, or even the hallway can make that harder than expected.
📌Tip: Choose a cabin away from late-night entertainment whenever possible. Pack earplugs, and if you expect nighttime trips to the bathroom, keep a small flashlight or nightlight within easy reach.
Buy Travel Insurance
Some health insurance plans—including Medicare—provide little or no coverage for medical care or emergency medical evacuation outside the United States. And if you need treatment aboard a cruise ship, the costs can add up quickly.
📌Tip: Most of my clients purchase trip insurance to help protect the vacation they've worked hard to save for. Depending on the policy they choose, it can also provide valuable coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and other unexpected events.
The Bottom Line
Cruising doesn't become harder as we get older. It simply requires a little more planning. Once you've thought through the details, you can stop worrying about them and focus on enjoying your vacation.
There are advantages to traveling at this stage of life, too. Many of us are more intentional about how we spend our time. We slow down enough to notice the sunrise from our balcony, linger over coffee with a new friend, or appreciate a destination instead of rushing through it.
I've learned most of these lessons from my own travels and by helping clients plan cruises over the years. Some of these suggestions may never apply to you. Others may make your next vacation just a little easier—and a lot more enjoyable.
Happy Traveling!
Connie
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