WHY SENIORS LIKE CRUISING-BUT CAN FIND IT FRUSTRATING

The over 60’s are an important segment of the market. One trend for seniors is towards longer cruises- even around- the- world cruises, if they can afford them. Some opt for child-free ships such as Adonia & Arcadia with P&O or any of the Saga cruises.

When ever I book single people it is a good idea to book a large table at dinner and request with the cruise line mixed table at dinner, so you get a good range of conversations, not just women or just men.

THUMBS UP;

• A cruise is an excellent choice for those who like to be independent while having the chance to meet other like-minded people.
• Cruising is stress – free and relaxing. You don’t have to keep packing and unpacking as you do on a land -based holiday.
• Its safe, you travel and dine in comfort and safety, while your floating hotel takes you to a choice of around 2.000 destinations all over the world.
• There’s plenty of entertainment – shows, cinema, casinos, games, dances.
• All main and self service buffet meals are included in the cost and special diets can easily be accommodated.
• Senior singles, in particular find it easy to meet others in a non threatening environment.
• Most ships have 24 hour room service and 24 hour reception desk too.
• Ships carry a medical doctor and one or more trained nurses. In an emergency treatment can be arranged.

THUMBS DOWN;

• Online check -in procedures, and unreadable passenger ticket conditions that are provided online.
• Menus with small, hard -to- read type faces and daily programmes that require a magnifying glass.
• Buffets with plates only, requiring  several visits and the cutlery is too heavy to hold comfortably in delicate or arthritic hands.
• Credit card sized electronic key card to cabins that often don’t make it clear which end to insert.
• Anything that requires a signature for example bar, shore excursions, spa bills and small print.
• Libraries that contain few books and none or very few with LARGE PRINT.
• Public toilets not clearly marked.
• The lack of music – free lounges and bars for conversation and drinks.