Discount Cruises for Seniors

Senior airfare is rapidly becoming a thing of the past, but fortunately most cruise lines are still offering discount cruises for folks over 50. With a little planning, some flexibility, and the right information, there's no reason why you can't take advantage of these exciting or relaxing discount cruises.

How to Find Senior Discount Cruises

• Visit senior-oriented websites and general travel websites, and sign up for their free newsletters and travel discount alerts. Email alerts usually contain the most up-to-date information, and are updated far more frequently than newsletters.
• Search online for companies that specialize in senior cruises, and inquire about their discounts on group travel. Many of these companies offer impressive discounts for groups, and some may even offer a free cruise for the group organizer. Refer friends and family members who book cruises to earn an even bigger discount.
• Visit cruise consolidators, travel auctions, and last minute vacation sites to get a hefty discount on unsold cabin spaces. You can find these on internet travel sites, newspaper travel sections, and most printed travel guides.
• Some non-profit organizations may sponsor volunteer vacation cruises, where you can provide assistance to other passengers in exchange for a discount on your travel expenses. Discount cruises of this type are sometimes tax deductible as well, so make sure you check.
• Look into off-season cruises, as they are often much cheaper than cruises during the regular season. For example, Caribbean cruises are less expensive during the summer than they are in the winter.

Tips and Warnings for Senior Discount Cruises

• Make sure you buy medical travel, lost baggage, and trip interruption insurance for any cruise, whether it's discount or not.
• Don't pay cash for any vacation travel. Use a credit card so you'll have a course of action in case of a dispute.
• Most cruise consolidators are legitimate, but it is always best to err on the side of caution. Always check your travel company out with the Better Business Bureau, and check for recommendations/reviews online before booking any discount cruises.