jungle queen river cruise

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Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruises

• 801 Seabreeze Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
• (954) 462-5596

Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale

The Jungle Queen Riverboat offers a unique opportunity to explore Fort Lauderdale’s renowned Millionaires Row. This 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise takes visitors along the New River , providing an up-close look at the lavish homes and mega yachts that belong to the area’s wealthiest residents. Knowledgeable guides share captivating insights into the architectural styles and historical development of this elite neighborhood, while guests can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. With on-board amenities and accommodations for a range of group sizes, the Jungle Queen Riverboat cruise promises a comfortable and enjoyable sightseeing experience. But what secrets might these stunning waterfront properties hold?

Just The Basics

• A 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise that explores the lavish homes and mega yachts along Millionaires Row in Fort Lauderdale.
• Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary about the area’s architectural styles, celebrity homes, and rich history.
• Onboard amenities include a fully-stocked bar, delicious snacks, and comfortable seating with ample space.
• Multiple departure times throughout the day to accommodate a range of travelers.
• Overwhelmingly positive reviews praise the stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and overall excellent value for the price.

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Tour Overview

The Jungle Queen Riverboat offers a 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise along the New River in Fort Lauderdale, allowing visitors to explore the city’s lavish homes and mega yachts along Millionaires Row .

The convenient schedule options make it easy to fit the cruise into one’s plans, and food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary and insights into the landmarks, offering a fully narrated experience.

The cruise provides comfort and convenience with onboard facilities , though the maximum capacity varies.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

With its scenic views and informative narration , the Jungle Queen Riverboat cruise promises an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Sights to See

As guests embark on the Jungle Queen Riverboat, they’ll be treated to a captivating tour of Fort Lauderdale’s renowned Millionaires Row, showcasing the lavish homes and impressive mega yachts that dot the waterways. The knowledgeable guide will offer fascinating insights, bringing the landmarks to life with engaging commentary.

Some of the highlights include:

• Awe-inspiring mansions with manicured landscapes and private docks.
• Towering yachts belonging to the area’s wealthiest residents.
• Stunning views of the New River and its serene surroundings.
• Historical information about the development and evolution of this elite neighborhood.

The 90-minute cruise provides a unique opportunity to witness the opulence and grandeur of Fort Lauderdale’s luxurious waterfront lifestyle.

Cruise Schedule

Convenient schedule options are available for the 90-minute Jungle Queen Riverboat sightseeing cruise in Fort Lauderdale.

Guests can select from multiple departure times throughout the day to suit their preferences and schedule.

The cruise departs from the Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach at various intervals, typically running from early morning until late afternoon .

This allows visitors to choose a time that best fits their sightseeing plans.

The schedule is designed to provide flexibility and accommodate a range of travelers, ensuring they can enjoy the narrated tour at their convenience.

Whether you prefer an early morning or afternoon cruise, the Jungle Queen offers multiple convenient options to explore the stunning Fort Lauderdale waterways.

Onboard Amenities

Guests aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat can enjoy a variety of onboard amenities during their 90-minute sightseeing cruise. Food and beverages are available for purchase, allowing travelers to indulge in refreshments as they take in the stunning views. The cruise also provides onboard facilities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for all passengers.

The Jungle Queen Riverboat offers:

A fully-stocked bar serving a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks

Delicious snacks and light meals, perfect for enjoying during the scenic journey

Comfortable seating with ample space to relax and admire the passing scenery

Clean and well-maintained restrooms for the convenience of all guests

These onboard amenities enhance the overall sightseeing experience, creating a memorable and enjoyable cruise along the New River.

Tour Guide Insights

The knowledgeable tour guides aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat offer captivating insights that bring the sights and history of Fort Lauderdale to life during the 90-minute cruise. They share fascinating stories about the lavish homes and mega yachts lining ‘ Millionaires Row ,’ providing context and details that enhance the guest experience.

Whether it’s explaining the architectural styles , pointing out celebrity homes, or recounting the area’s rich past, the guides ensure the tour is both informative and entertaining. Guests consistently praise the guides’ engaging commentary and ability to make the cruise an immersive and educational journey.

With their expertise, the Jungle Queen’s sightseeing tour provides a uniquely insightful perspective on the luxurious waterways of Fort Lauderdale.

Cruise Experience

The Jungle Queen Riverboat cruise offers a comfortable and relaxing sightseeing experience along Fort Lauderdale’s picturesque waterways. Onboard facilities, including restrooms and climate-controlled indoor seating, ensure guests’ comfort throughout the 90-minute journey.

Whether they choose to observe the stunning views from the open-air upper deck or the shaded lower level, travelers are treated to a leisurely and enjoyable cruise.

The cruise experience evokes a range of emotions:

• Awe at the impressive mansions and mega-yachts lining ‘Millionaires Row’
• Delight in the knowledgeable guide’s engaging commentary
• Serenity in the gentle rocking of the boat and the tranquil flow of the New River
• Satisfaction in the convenience and value of the cruise package

Guest Capacity

Depending on the tour, the maximum capacity of the Jungle Queen Riverboat can vary. The cruise accommodates a range of group sizes , allowing guests to enjoy the sightseeing experience comfortably.

For the 90-minute narrated tour , the boat can hold a maximum number of passengers, though the exact capacity may fluctuate depending on the specific cruise. Guests are advised to check the details for their selected tour to ensure the group size suits their preferences.

Whether traveling solo or as part of a larger group , the Jungle Queen Riverboat offers an intimate and enjoyable sightseeing experience along the New River in Fort Lauderdale.

Guest Reviews

Guests have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Jungle Queen Riverboat’s 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise in Fort Lauderdale, praising the informative and entertaining nature of the tour. Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who offer insightful commentary on the sights, from the lavish homes and mega yachts along Millionaires Row to the historical landmarks .

The stunning scenery and breathtaking views along the New River.

The comfort and convenience of the cruise, with onboard facilities and refreshments .

The excellent value for the price , offering an unparalleled sightseeing experience .

The overall enjoyment and satisfaction with the unique and memorable cruise.

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• Sail Splash and Sailing Excursion in Ft. Lauderdale

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the cruise be rescheduled due to inclement weather.

The cruise can be rescheduled due to inclement weather. The company typically offers flexibility to reschedule or provide refunds in the event of weather-related cancellations, ensuring a pleasant experience for guests.

Is There Designated Seating on the Cruise?

The cruise has open seating, allowing guests to choose their preferred spot. There are no assigned seats, providing flexibility to move around and enjoy the sights from different vantage points during the tour.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks onboard, though some cruise operators may have restrictions. It’s best to check the specific policy before the cruise to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

Yes, the tour operator typically offers discounted rates for seniors and children. These discounts can often be found on the tour’s website or by inquiring directly with the operator prior to booking.

How Early Should Guests Arrive for the Cruise?

The tour operator recommends guests arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. This allows time to check in, find their seats, and get settled before the cruise begins. Early arrival ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

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The Jungle Queen Riverboat offers an engaging and informative 90-minute sightseeing cruise along Fort Lauderdale’s Millionaires Row .

Guests can admire the lavish homes and mega yachts while enjoying the serene surroundings and onboard amenities.

The knowledgeable guides provide captivating insights, making it a comfortable and enjoyable experience for a range of group sizes.

The cruise is a must-try for those seeking a unique perspective of this elite neighborhood.

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Jungle Queen – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect, FAQs

The Jungle Queen Riverboat has been sailing the waterways of Fort Lauderdale for more than 80 years, since 1935.

Jungle Queen Riverboat is famous for the way they treat their guests, navigate the, at times, narrow riverways, and create an entertaining atmosphere for everyone on board.

This cruise takes visitors around the city’s most notable landmarks while providing all entertainment options in one location.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Jungle Queen Riverboat. 

Table of contents

What to expect, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, jungle queen riverboat ticket prices, jungle queen tickets, meeting point, how long does the tour take, best time to visit, route of jungle queen cruise , faqs about jungle queen.

Are you curious about how wealthy people live? Then Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise is the best way to find out.

Let a guide take you down the ‘Venice of America’ and show you the lavish houses and enormous yachts of the millionaires on a trip that is bound to leave a lasting impression on you!

Witness ostentatious homes worth over $30 million, some of which belong (or have belonged) to famous celebrities such as Shaquille O’Neal, Will Smith, and Oprah Winfrey.

During the cruise, you can satisfy your hunger and thirst as food and drinks are available to purchase on board.

The experienced guides on the cruise will make your trip informative and memorable as they provide details about the surrounding homes, boats, and landmarks, all while adding some humor and answering all your questions.

Back to top

Tickets for the Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise are available to be purchased at the ticket office or online in advance.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

Go to the Jungle Queen Riverboat booking page , select your preferred date, timeslot, and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets via email.

You don’t need to carry printouts.

Show the smartphone tickets at the gate on the day of your visit and begin your adventure.

Adult tickets for the Jungle Queen Cruise cost US$35 for all visitors aged 13 and above.

Children aged two to 12 years can get the tickets for a discounted price of US$24. 

Infants up to two years of age can join for free.

Guests can go on a 90-minute Jungle Queen sightseeing cruise and enjoy the city’s riverfront views.

The cruise offers narrated tours along the shimmering waters of Fort Lauderdale’s historic and shimmering New River.

Get an in-depth understanding of the river’s history and identify each mega-yacht owner with your knowledgeable guide’s help.

Visitors can cancel or reschedule their tickets up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Visitors can upgrade their experience and purchase food and drinks on board the cruise.

Ticket Price

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$35 Child Ticket (2 to 12 years): US$22 Infant Ticket (up to 2 years): Free

Save time and money! Buy the Miami Go City Pass and discover over 25 top Miami-area activities, attractions, and tours. With this all-inclusive pass, you can explore Zoo Miami, Seaquarium, Big Bus Miami Hop-On Hop-Off, and many more!

The meeting point for the Jungle Queen Riverboat will vary depending on the tour option you choose.

It’s important to keep in mind that the meeting location may change.

Visitors should check the booking page before arriving to confirm the exact location.

Jungle Queen Riverboats operate on all days of the week.

Visitors can choose between cruises starting at noon or at 2.30 pm.

Visitors are advised to reach at least 45 minutes before their scheduled departure.

The Jungle Queen cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes. 

The tour length may vary from time to time due to weather or traffic on the waterways.

It is best to book your cruise on a weekday to have the best experience.

Tours on weekends and public holidays tend to be the busiest.

The weather also plays a key role in determining the best time to go on the Jungle Queen Cruise, so its better to check the weather forecast before booking your cruise.

The Jungle Queen Cruise starts from Bahia Mar Yachting Center, and as you sail ahead, you’ll be exposed to sights of renowned sites. 

Catch glimpses of Colee Hammock Park, RiverWalk  Fort Lauderdale, Abreu Park, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, Broward County Convention Center, and many more!

Keep an eye out for the Millionaires Row; you never know, you may spot P.Diddy sipping a cup of coffee in his garden!

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before taking the Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise.

Yes, it is best to buy tickets in advance to ensure availability and have a hassle-free experience.

No, the ticket does not include food and beverages. However, visitors are free to buy the food onboard.

Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Yes, visitors will be provided with jackets when getting on the Jungle Queen cruise.

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed on the cruise.

It is recommended that visitors wear casual clothing and comfortable shoes to have the most comfortable experience.

No, pets are not allowed on the cruise.

The upper and lower decks of the riverboat can accommodate up to 385 passengers.

Yes, there are restrooms on the lower decks of the cruise.

Visitors are welcome to sit on the upper deck. However, only crew members can access the top pilothouse deck.

Yes, limited power outlets are accessible for customer use on cruises. Please check with a crew member regarding availability.

Yes. The cruise has full-service bars. There’s beer, wine, rum punch, pia coladas, and other specialty cocktails. Please remember that all persons consuming alcohol in Florida must be over 21 years old. 

Yes, there is parking near the Box Office at the Bahia Mar Hotel. Metered parking is available for a cost. There is limited handicapped parking at the dock.

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This article was researched & written by

Jamshed V Rajan

He is a two-faced traveler, who enjoys both the hustle-bustle of an urban holiday and the serenity of a break from the rest of the World. During some of his vacations, he is a resort hopper, and on others, he barely spends time in his hotel. He loves to try mouth-watering local cuisines, especially non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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Jungle Queen Riverboat in Fort Lauderdale

The Jungle Queen Riverboat is a popular attraction for South Florida residents, especially when friends and family are in town. The popular cruise started in 1935

The iconic vessel floats along the lovely New River in Fort Lauderdale and offers a narrated sightseeing excursion and a stop-over on  “private island,” and there is a dinner cruise option with a variety show.

Discounts of 10 percent are offered for military and first responders. 

Photo: Deposit Photos

Jungle Queen Riverboat prices

• Dinner excursion for 13 and older  is $78.86, including tax. For seniors, it is $73.63, for ages 3-12, it is $54.77; and for children 2 and younger it is $21.20.
• Sightseeing excursions prices are 13 and older, $34.90; seniors, $31.64; ages 3-12, $23.68; free for 2 and younger

Parking is $4 an hour, or $11 for 6 hours    

Discounts are rare, but you will find any promotions listed here.   Opportunities include:

• Military and first responders receive 10 percent off for up to 5 people in party
• 2-for-1 deals for Broward Attractions and Museums Month on eligible excursions

Information is on the website  or call 954-462-5596.

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9 bucket list cruises for seniors and retirees.

These cruise lines appeal to older travelers with adults-only sailings, accessible staterooms and more.

Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Make the memories of a lifetime on a cruise for seniors and retirees.

Cruises are an often dreamt-about retirement goal, especially for long-time cruise lovers who have always been short on time. Retirement can be the ideal season of life to sail off into the sunset for several weeks, whether to far-off lands like Antarctica or a peaceful journey down the Danube. In some cases, seniors embrace their golden years by booking epic, monthslong voyages around the world.

Many small- and medium-sized ships cater to the over-60 crowd, but that doesn't mean guests will be relegated to shuffleboard and bingo games. Today's seniors still have plenty of adventures to experience and memories to make, both on board and on shore. The following cruise lines offer the top bucket list sailings for seniors and retirees.

Windstar Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, oceania cruises, holland america line, cunard line, aurora expeditions.

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Anyone who has ever fancied a near-private yacht-style cruise experience will love the vibe of Windstar Cruises. Each of its yachts holds between 148 and 342 guests, with a 1-to-1.5 crew-to-guest ratio. This makes for more intimate sailings – not only because there's simply less ship to maneuver on foot, but also because Windstar ships have access to ports that megaships aren't permitted to enter. The end result is the unique ability to explore lesser-known destinations and smaller cities. While Windstar is not a strictly adults-only cruise line , you won't see any little ones on board, either. Children must be at least 8 years old to sail on the line, which further adds to the high-end ambiance.

In 2021 and 2022, Windstar's Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend ships received a refresh. The three all-suite yachts were cut in half and enhanced with new suites and amenities, bringing the capacity to 312 passengers on each vessel. These Star Plus Class ships also boast new restaurants, a reimagined spa and fitness center, and more efficient engines, among other improvements. Elevators help make the Star Plus Class ships more accessible for anyone with limited mobility (note that Wind Class ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit do not have elevators). Additionally, Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend each have four wheelchair-accessible suites, which feature a smaller queen bed and reduced "wheel around" space.

On board, passengers can drop by the Open Bridge anytime for an impromptu lesson in chart reading, listen to live music in the Lounge or jump directly into the water from the Watersports Platform. Culinary highlights include restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, which serves a twist on modern Spanish cuisine by the 10-time Michelin-starred chef, as well as culinary shore excursions with hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market tours to explore fresh local ingredients.

The cruise industry is abuzz with interest in one of Windstar's newest itineraries, which introduces passengers to the Middle East. The Inaugural Sparkling Sands & Cities itinerary sets sail in November 2023, visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; and Muscat, Oman, among others. Foodies will be especially interested in the James Beard Foundation's Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf itinerary, scheduled to embark in February 2024. Windstar's other destinations include Asia, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific and more.

Read: How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Adam Hillier | Courtesy of Viking

Spanning seven continents via river, ocean and expedition vessels, Viking is considered a quintessential high-end cruise experience. For more than 25 years, it has provided destination-focused sailings designed to allow its guests to explore the world in supreme comfort. Its voyages particularly appeal to travelers older than 50 who are interested in science, history, culture and cuisine.

Every Viking cruise fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, onboard meals, beer and wine (with lunch and dinner service), Wi-Fi access, and all port charges and government taxes. On Viking's ocean and expedition vessels, guests also enjoy complimentary self-service laundry, access to the Thermal Suite in The Spa, high tea service, alternative restaurant dining and 24-hour room service. But the best part for older cruisers may be what's not included on Viking sailings: kids. This adults-only cruise line is dedicated to guests 18 and older.

Viking's fleet – with capacities ranging from 80 to 998 passengers (on river and ocean cruises, respectively) – feature elegant Scandinavian-style decor. The small ship cruises get closer to their destinations, spend more time in port and include more overnight stays, too.

One of Viking's newest ocean vessels, the all-veranda Viking Saturn, debuted in 2023 and focuses on European sailings. Its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean route from Venice to Athens is particular popular, with stops in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Greece. Another in-demand route is the Danube Christmas Delights itinerary on the Viking Longships, which visits enchanting villages, cultural capitals and iconic Christmas markets for a festive holiday cruise .

To suit their needs, guests can choose between different activity levels for walking tour-focused shore excursions. For bibliophiles, The Library on each ship is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute on the expedition vessels. Viking also holds exclusive partnerships with prestigious scientific institutions, which makes it possible for at least 36 experts – including field research scientists, mountain guides, submarine pilots and other specialists – to accompany passengers on each expedition journey.

Book a  Viking cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Billed as one of the world's most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines , Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features small ships with an average capacity of 120 guests and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the rivers of 1-to-2.4. Part of the allure of the small ship size is a more personalized travel experience that delivers passengers to destinations ocean liners aren't able to visit (such as the Venetian Lagoon, where large ships have been banned from entry).

Uniworld ships are akin to floating boutique hotels, designed to reflect the destinations in which they sail – a vast list that includes ports in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Guests will appreciate the exquisite details on board, including unique artwork from some of the most famous artists in the world (think: Pablo Picasso and David Hockney), handmade fabrics from local artisans and handcarved furnishings.

Additionally, Uniworld's all-inclusive cruise experience includes all onboard meals, which are made with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, as well as unlimited premium spirits and fine wines. In the base fare, voyages also include a selection of shore excursions, daily entertainment, fitness centers, wellness classes, airport transfers, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi access and more.

Uniworld makes it particularly easy to visit many of Europe's most enchanting Christmas towns on a single cruise, where passengers can visit the festive holiday markets and get all their seasonal shopping done. For seniors with more time to spare, the Rivers of the World Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This 55-day itinerary departs from Lima, Peru , in October 2024 and takes 40 guests across three continents via four ships to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Find  Uniworld Boutique River Cruises  on GoToSea.

This upscale brand recently relaunched under A&K Travel Group with a reimagined vision. Crystal Serenity (which holds up to 740 guests) and Crystal Symphony (carrying up to 606 passengers) underwent a combined $150 million dollar refurbishment that includes updated suites and new wellness offerings at the Aurōra spa. While sailing the high seas with Crystal, passengers' needs are met at every step of the way – a perk made possible by the nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. A dedicated butler in every stateroom and suite will help with packing and unpacking, stocking your fridge, making restaurant reservations, booking excursions and more.

Crystal offers impressive enrichment programming, hosting high-profile lecturers with backgrounds in sports, entertainment and science. Spend some time refining your technology skills at Computer University@Sea and perfecting your ballroom dance moves, photography abilities, golf swing or bridge game. There's also a well-stocked library containing books on a range of subjects, along with board games and a pickleball court.

Dining options on board include Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian dining venue developed by Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Unlike some other cruise lines that charge a fee for each specialty dining reservation, Crystal allows guests to enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for sailings of 11 days or less. After dinner, nightly entertainment can be found in several venues, such as live music in the Galaxy Lounge.

Crystal sails on itineraries of varying length to the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa and the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, and Asia. If you're planning a bucket list trip, consider the line's 123-night 2025 World Cruise, which travels to 62 destinations across 31 countries between Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Barcelona, Spain .

Read: Crystal Symphony Review: First Impressions of Crystal's Revamped Ship

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Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Seniors with a penchant for epicurean delights tend to gravitate toward Oceania Cruises for their cruise vacations – it's known for having one of the finest culinary programs at sea. This cruise line focuses on small ship luxury, with seven ships currently in service carrying between 670 and 1,250 passengers each. An eighth ship, Allura, is set to debut in 2025.

Newer ships like the Vista – the first of the Allura class vessels, which joined the fleet in May 2023 – have wheelchair-accessible rooms and a plethora of onboard culinary venues. A few highlights include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes; The Bakery at Baristas, serving freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant Ember, an upscale American eatery. Don't miss the Cellar Master's Wine Luncheon: a two-hour, hand-selected tasting led by the head sommelier that features a five-course menu paired with premium wines for each dish.

Senior cruisers will enjoy the Aquamar Spa's signature massage therapies, which use natural ingredients and modern techniques to release stress and tension. The Vitality Center offers a steam room, a thalassotherapy pool and heated lounge beds for extra relief. Onboard entertainment on Oceania, meanwhile, includes musical performances and immersive shows with dance numbers led by "Dancing With the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart. The Culinary Center is a fan favorite for seniors, offering the opportunity to practice cooking techniques and learn about the unique flavor profiles of regional dishes.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a location Oceania doesn't sail to, with cruises to Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, Antarctica and more, as well as transoceanic voyages and 180-day world cruises. Oceania also provides a good overall value, thanks to its included specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, round-trip airfare and transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

Explore  Oceania Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

As a premium, midsize cruise line, Holland America Line offers plenty of destinations, excursions and activities aligned to an older audience. The smaller ship size, which averages around 2,000 passengers per sailing, allows for many of the ships to dock in ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, getting passengers even closer to the destinations they're visiting. For older passengers who may have limited mobility, the option to simply disembark the ship without waiting for a tender or other means of transportation can make or break a trip.

Holland America Line, though family-friendly, offers myriad excursions that are primarily adult-oriented and open to all types of adventurers. Shore excursions are clearly marked with an activity level ranging from easy to strenuous, from leisurely wine tastings and relaxing strolls through ancient towns to ATV rides through the jungle and dog-sledding on a glacier only accessible via helicopter.

Onboard entertainment and activities are plentiful; guests often enjoy the multiple music lounges and venues on each ship, along with hosted programs such as bingo and trivia. For seniors who can't get enough of the pickleball trend, Holland America Line has partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring branded courts and equipment on board. After all that action on the court, unwind in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon with a rejuvenating treatment. (Pro tip: Add on the Thermal Suite for access to the healing hydrotherapy circuit and heated, tiled loungers that will melt all your cares away.)

The numerous onboard dining options bring together cuisines and flavors from all over the world, with specialty restaurants featuring menus developed by a team of master chefs known as Holland America's Culinary Council. In addition to casual dining in the Lido Market and multicourse affairs in The Dining Room, each ship also features the Pinnacle Grill, an onboard steakhouse offering high-end meats and seafood. Other specialty restaurants vary by ship and may include Italian eatery Canaletto and the French-inspired Rudi's Sel de Mer.

Holland America Line sails all over the world. It does an especially nice job with its Greek island cruises and Adriatic Sea adventures. One of the line's newest ships, Rotterdam , is a crowd-pleaser with its sleek design details and an onboard art collection valued at more than $4.1 million. Still, longtime favorites like the refurbished Oosterdam and Eurodam host plenty of happy guests.

Compare  Holland America Line  cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Azamara

Another all-inclusive, senior-friendly brand is Azamara, which boasts a long list of perks covered in the base fare. Your one-time payment covers meals and beverages, including standard spirits, international beers and a limited amount of wine by the glass; you can upgrade to a beverage package if you'd like access to premium brands. Other included amenities range from self-service laundry to gratuities to special cultural evenings featuring onboard or onshore performances by locals.

There are four ships in Azamara's fleet. Each carries up to 702 passengers, so they still fit comfortably into the small ship category and can access less-visited ports than larger vessels. Destinations on Azamara include ports throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, and the Caribbean; there are also transoceanic itineraries. If spending roughly half a year on a cruise ship sounds like your ideal retirement plan, consider the Azamara World Voyage in 2025. Over 155 nights, you'll visit 37 countries.

Each of the line's ships has staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, and Azamara has created customized shore excursion tours for guests with disabilities as well. Accessible tours are designed for full-time wheelchair users or guests unable to navigate motor-coach steps.

There are plenty of entertainment options on board, including Club Crooner's hits from current and classic songbirds, as well as ship-specific venues with various song and dance performances. Plus, every cruise hosts a White Night signature dinner and entertainment event on the pool deck (so be sure to pack your favorite white attire). Unwind with darts, arts and crafts, pingpong, shuffleboard, trivia contests, bingo and dance lessons. Don't miss opportunities to attend lectures through the enrichment program.

Find an  Azamara  cruise on GoToSea.

Christopher Ison | Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line's ocean liners have sailed between the U.K. and New York since 1840 – and the brand's relationship with the British monarchy is integral to its heritage. As such, each ship is named after a British queen. The newest ship, Queen Anne, joins the fleet in 2024.

In keeping with its history, Cunard Line has several signature experiences that help set the brand apart. Afternoon tea is a Cunard tradition observed daily in the Queen's Room; expect white-gloved waiters serving scones and finger sandwiches alongside infused teas in silver teapots (add Champagne for an additional fee). During gala evenings, guests don tuxedos and ballgowns for a sophisticated celebration you won't soon forget. Themes range from Masquerade to Roaring 20s; you'll get a heads-up before you pack your cruise attire .

Each of the four stateroom grades has its own dedicated fine dining restaurant with excellent service and indulgent menus, though there are several casual dining options as well – not to mention specialty dining venues for an additional fee. A host of activities will keep you busy day and night, including a library, open-air pools, fitness facilities, live music, theater performances, guest speaker events, board games, film screenings, art classes, planetarium shows (on Queen Mary 2) and group dance classes.

Accessible shore experiences are available in many ports, ranging from lower activity-level tours to adaptations for wheelchair users. Accessible staterooms are available on Queen Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 ; these come with modifications like wider entryways, nonslip bathroom floors and shower seats.

Explore  Cunard Line  deals on GoToSea.

Scott Portelli | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Nothing says "once-in-a-lifetime" quite like embarking on an expedition to the world's most remote destinations – and, specifically, to Antarctica. For cruisers looking to explore this far-off land, Aurora Expeditions is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Founded by legendary adventurer Greg Mortimer, the brand sends an education-focused expedition team on each voyage, with a ratio of about one team member per every eight passengers. With an average of just 132 cruisers on these sailings, you'll get more one-on-one time with your expedition team.

Seniors can climb aboard Aurora Expeditions' Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle ship for innovative itineraries to the Great White Continent. When the ship isn't pausing to watch breaching whales, passengers can kayak between icebergs, visit penguin colonies or take guided hikes across the tundra. Aurora describes its cruises as "100% climate neutral," with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

All of Aurora Expeditions' voyages let travelers explore at their own pace, making it a great option for all ages. There are many included activities on each expedition, such as bird-watching, photography, lectures on wildlife, Zodiac cruises and near-shore excursions. The line will even outfit you with Muck boots and waterproof polar jackets. The entire voyage is laid-back, with an informal dress code.

On board, all cabins have a view of the ocean, and most have their own balcony. Tips are included in the cost of your cruise, and guests can enjoy a complimentary house wine or beer with dinner. Look forward to hearty dishes to help fuel your activities, with some buffet-style meals, a la carte options and a reservations-required restaurant on each ship.

Read: The Top Antarctica Cruises

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the mid-'90s and has since visited dozens of destinations around the globe. Whether she's on the newest megaship, an older small ship or a luxury yacht, she loves life at sea. She used extensive research and her decades of experience as a cruiser to write this article (she has taken two cruises with her 70-year-old dad just this year). Schildhouse covers the travel industry for myriad top-tier outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, AARP, Fodor's, Reader's Digest and Insider.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

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