Educational Ocean Voyages

Educational Cruises and Ocean Voyages

Discover the world’s most fascinating ports on voyages aboard large, modern ocean liners. Enjoy the same amenities you’d find at a deluxe resort as you set sail on a study cruise enriched with Road Scholar exclusive meals, presentations and field trips.

Beyond the Horizon: Senior-Friendly Ocean Cruises

Have you ever dreamed about hopping aboard a luxurious ship that will take you on an educational cruise to faraway lands bustling with culture and adventure? Road Scholar will make your dream trips a reality with over a dozen trips spanning the world. 

Ocean life does not disappoint. Discover the world’s most fascinating ports on sea voyages aboard large, modern ocean liner. Enjoy the same amenities you’d find at a deluxe resort as you set sail on a study ocean cruise enriched with Road Scholar exclusive meals, presentations, and field trips.

Our guests set out on a themed sea voyage, crossing the Atlantic from New York City to London, navigating Norway’s legendary fjords and learning about Viking history. Walk among ancient temples and Venetian fortifications in Greece and Croatia. If deciding where to go is too difficult, consider taking Road Scholar’s Sail Around the World Grand Odyssey.

Benefits of Road Scholar Ocean Cruises for Seniors

At Road Scholar, our ocean cruises for seniors offer something for everyone. No matter where our ocean tours for older adults take you, some of the many benefits you can enjoy include:

• Expert guides: Our educational cruises are led by our expert staff and local instructors who are well-versed in the culture, history, wildlife, and geography of the destinations you’re visiting. As you’re out at sea, you can relax while enjoying lectures that explore the ins and outs of the next port on your itinerary.
• Amenities: One of the top benefits of our senior cruises is the amenities. Select a book from our flourishing libraries, work out at our onboard gym, relax by the pool, or enjoy live entertainment like musicals and comedy shows. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something intriguing on our cruises for seniors.
• Accessibility: Whether you’re looking into cruises for seniors over 60 or cruises for seniors over 70, we offer accessible options that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) featuring automatic doors, ramp entrances for public rooms and elevators, and accessible cabins.
• Cuisine: What makes our ocean cruises stand out are the mouth-watering dining options onboard. With several restaurants to choose from, you can enjoy traditional dishes and local delicacies, all prepared by world-class chefs.

If you’re looking for a memorable ocean cruise, look no further than Road Scholar. From our amenities to expert instructions, you can sail the world’s oceans and visit top destinations in an exciting and relaxing way.

Tailored Experiences for Seniors Over 60 and Over 70

For travelers looking for cruises for seniors over 60 or cruises for seniors over 70, you’re in luck. At Road Scholar, we offer tailored experiences for seniors over 60 and 70 on our senior cruises. The cruise industry abides by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations and domestic accessibility regulations. Ships docked in the United States are required to meet regulations outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Along with ensuring accessibility, our ocean cruises offer a wide range of tailored experiences to pique your interests. Depending on the vessel, you can find full-sized theaters, duty-free shops, casinos, and planetariums. You can also dine at restaurants, relax at indoor or outdoor pools, enjoy a workout at a fully stocked gym, or relax at a health spa.

Popular Destinations for Ocean Cruises

At Road Scholar, our educational cruises can take you to a vast number of destinations around the world. From New Zealand and Australia to the Hawaiian Islands or Japan, there are several senior cruises you can choose from that make you curious. Explore some of our most popular destinations for ocean cruises below. 

Japan

One of the top ocean cruises for seniors brings you to Japan. This Pacific island nation is known for its rich culture and history, cuisine, and geography, making it an exceptional destination for any traveler. As you discover Japan by sea, you can stop at cities like Nagasaki and visit the Atomic Bomb Museum, Shikoku to explore the Kochi Castle, and Hokkaido to discover what rural life in Japan is like.

New Zealand and Australia

Set sail on a premium ocean voyage as you discover the vibrant culture, iconic wildlife, complex history and stunning natural beauty of Australia and New Zealand. 

On this epic 20-day journey from the vibrant, multicultural city of Sydney, Australia to Auckland, New Zealand, travelers will explore the art scene of Melbourne, and Victoria, sail through the stunning Fiordland National Park, and learn about the Maori settlement in the Bay of Plenty.

The Hawaiian Islands

Are the Hawaiian Islands calling to you to visit the stunning beaches, first-class sunsets, and unbelievable landscape? Road Scholar has the trip you’ve been wanting to take. 

This ocean voyage begins in Honolulu, Oahu to Maui, and the Big Island. The Big Island was home to Kamehameha the Great, and this stretch of the trip will be spent exploring the history, Volcanoes National Park, and a private cloud forest preserve. 

Maui is iconic for its lush island landscapes and beautiful beaches. There is a lot to do on this island and Road Scholar will be there every step of the way to immerse travelers in the Aloha experience. 

Kauai is home to the awe-inspiring Waimea Canyon, called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Feast your eyes on the famous Na’Pali Coast as you return to Honolulu to wrap up the trip. 

Voyage of a Lifetime

Like no other journey available, the Road Scholar offers an epic, 103-night educational cruise aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2. This ocean voyage takes travelers on the ultimate exploration of 18 countries on four continents with Road Scholar experts.

This sea voyage takes travelers through Western Europe, South Africa, Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula. From Heraklion to Luxor, and Muscat to Sydney, there’s no end to what you’ll discover and the friendships you’ll make during this epic voyage!

This world tour begins with two nights in London, with field trips to St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. Go on safari in South Africa. Experience the desert city of Dubai. Marvel at the biodiversity of the island of Mauritius. 

Planning for a Stress-Free Ocean Voyage

Your ocean voyage is meant to be an educational and relaxing escape, not a source of stress. However, we're well aware that an ocean voyage consisting of days or weeks at sea can be a big and worrisome undertaking that many of us might not be used to. Keep these tips in mind for stress-free travel aboard ship:

• Pack smart and light by bringing versatile clothing that can handle shifting temperatures on deck and excursions ashore.
• Keep essentials like medications, electronics, documents and a change of clothes in your carry-on to stay prepared in the event your checked luggage is delayed.
• Prioritize health and prevention by packing essentials like seasickness bands, ginger chews or medications in case motion discomfort becomes an issue. Additionally, stay well-hydrated and rested to stay energized for full days at sea.

What's Covered in All-Inclusive Senior Cruises

At Road Scholar, we make our all-inclusive senior cruises an experience you’ll never forget, as we ensure cruising for seniors is made comfortable with the following inclusions:

• Inviting accommodations: Enjoy cozy and comfortable lodging that makes resting at sea feel like home.
• Most meals: Savor delicious cuisine, including most breakfast, lunch and dinner meals, often featuring local ingredients and flavors.
• Gratuities: All gratuities are included, so you don’t need to worry about tipping or any hidden fees.
• Expert-led activities: Join experts in lectures, field trips and guided tours in port cities for an immersive experience.
• Onboard amenities: Take advantage of full-stocked libraries, gyms, lounges and entertainment, all conveniently located onboard.

FAQs

How long are typical educational cruise voyages for seniors?

At Road Scholar, most educational cruises are between 11 and 20 days, giving you plenty of time to relax aboard and explore port cities along the way. You can also consider our ocean voyage on Holland America’s MS Volendam, a 135-night worldwide journey that explores South America, Asia and the Pacific.

What learning experiences are offered on board ocean voyages?

Road Scholar’s educational cruises offer a variety of learning experiences. Gain insights from historians, naturalists and cultural specialists who share knowledge tied to the regions you’re visiting, or participate in hands-on workshops that may include photography, art, marine biology or local crafts that offer the chance to learn a new skill. Other learning experiences offered onboard include cultural performances, such as traditional dance or music, small-group conversations where you can reflect on lectures and excursions and wildlife and nature talks to learn about marine ecosystems or unique coastal wildlife.

What accessibility features are included on ocean cruises for seniors over 60?

Passengers can find a variety of accessibility features on our ocean cruises for seniors over 60, such as:

• Accessible cabins
• Elevators and ramps
• Mobility assistance
• Accessible dining and public spaces
• Medical facilities
• Support staff

Is ocean cruising suitable for senior travelers with mobility limitations?

Yes, ocean cruising for seniors is suitable for those with mobility limitations, thanks to convenient accommodations, with dining and entertainment found in one place. Additionally, elevators, staff assistance and accessible cabins ensure all passengers’ mobility needs are met.

Are educational cruises suitable for solo senior travelers?

Yes, educational cruises are perfect for solo senior travelers because they offer a built-in community of fellow travelers who share similar interests, along with structured learning programs, like classes and lectures, allowing solo travelers to participate in meaningful activities without the presence of a companion.

Experience Travel With Road Scholar

At Road Scholar, we offer once-in-a-lifetime ocean and river cruises around the world. Enroll and learn more about the Road Scholar’s adventures on land and sea.