AAA The Extra Mile. May 2023.
Are you longing to hear the gentle splash of the waves and gaze at endless blue waters? This summer, embark on a unique cruise that is designed for mature travelers looking to feed their adventuresome spirits and their tastebuds.
Select your voyage based on destinations, activities, amenities, and ships that are adult centric, or in some cases, adult only. From active adventures in the polar regions to wildlife safaris along the equator, below are some boutique and luxury cruises that cater to those looking for a getaway with fellow like-minded travelers.
VIKING HOMELANDS
Viking’s “18+ only” ships feature classical music performances, elevated dining options, and quiet reading nooks with a great selection of books. The onboard state-of-the-art, Nordic-style sauna is one of the largest at sea. Once you are completely relaxed and rejuvenated, you’ll be ready to pursue a deeper understanding of your destination’s culture by taking one of the guided tours.
While sailing along the Norwegian Fjords on the Viking Homelands itinerary, expect to eat traditional Norwegian pancakes for breakfast while enjoying panoramic views of glaciers. You can also hike through pristine valleys and visit charming European villages.
ANTARCTICA
If visiting this extraordinary continent is on your bucket list, take an adventure cruise with Quark Expeditions. You won’t find any childcare or musicals on board, but you’ll witness plenty of nature’s beauty on your twice-daily Zodiac excursions. From kayaking with humpback whales and walking among penguin colonies, to snowshoeing on ice sheets and plunging into the icy Antarctic waters, you’ll experience the adventure of a lifetime.
While younger adventurers are welcome on board, the remote environments and colder temperatures on these journeys typically attract a more mature audience.
MEKONG RIVER
Take a river cruise journey that is both culturally insightful and memorable. Traverse through ancient historic sites, colorful craft markets, and traditional villages in Vietnam and Cambodia, on the Riches of the Mekong 7-night Cruise with AmaWaterways.
AmaWaterways is a family-owned and operated cruise line that is known to have some of the most spacious and elegant staterooms on the river. It’s also the first cruise line to offer complimentary bikes, a wellness program with group fitness classes, and the Chef’s Table specialty restaurant.
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Follow the steps of Darwin in one of the most diverse places in the world. For cruisers looking to have personal, up-close experiences with rare wildlife and exotic flora, the remote Galapagos Islands are a dream come true.
Ecoventura, a cruise company based in Ecuador, offers three luxurious Relais & Chateaux affiliated ships. With a maximum of 20 guests on each ship, you’ll enjoy a private-yacht-style experience, including onboard hot tubs, locally inspired Ecuadorian meals served on the sun deck, and a team of expert naturalist guides who are recruited from the region.
The environmentally friendly fleet offers uncommon access to places in the archipelago that larger ships cannot reach. Spend your days paddleboarding or snorkeling to beaches and secret coves, or hiking to volcanic mountains and through national parks.
THE MEDITERRANEAN
If you’re looking for an intimate sailing experience without the private charter prices, Silversea offers six ultra-luxury ships and five expedition vessels. Ship sizes range from 51 to 364 suites and all the vessels feature spacious ocean-view accommodations—most with private verandas and all-inclusive fares. Be pampered with butler service, 24-hour gourmet dining, premium alcoholic beverages, and complimentary shore excursions in each port.
The new Silver Nova ship is one of the most luxurious and spacious expedition ships at sea, featuring suites with 270° sea-to-sky views, as well as a reimagined two-story pool deck, open-air sky bar, and an indulgent spa.
~ Written for and published by AAA The Extra Mile. All rights reserved.