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Norwegian Cruise Line Senior Discount – Age Requirements & Details

If you’re looking for a great way to get away from it all, then Norwegian Cruise Lines has the best deals for you.

Senior citizens 55+ can qualify for up to $100 off select cruises and save a lot of money on their vacation.

There are other eligibility requirements as well, which we will discuss in detail below.

In order to take advantage of this discount at Norwegian Cruise Line, seniors need to meet certain age restrictions and be able to provide proof that they are eligible when they book.

Are you looking for a vacation?

Norwegian Cruises offers a discount to travelers who are at least 55 years old.

Qualifying seniors can save on their tickets and save money on a great vacation. This discount can earn you up to $100 off your trip. It is available year-round on certain destinations.

How much is the senior discount at Norwegian Cruise Lines?

The senior discount on Norwegian Cruise Lines can be up to $100 off your tickets on select cruises.

You deserve the best, so take advantage of this offer today!

Book your next cruise with Norwegian Cruises and enjoy all the amenities that come with it like free Wi-Fi, complimentary beverages, and more!

Contact an agent now for more information or visit the website for details about this senior discount.

What age is the Norwegian Cruise Lines senior discount? 

To qualify for this discount, you’ll need to be at least 55 years old.

When you book your trip, be prepared to show proof of your age.

When is the Norwegian Cruise Lines senior discount day? 

The senior discount on Norwegian Cruises is available year-round whenever you book a qualifying trip.

However, the best time to take advantage of this deal is during their special promotions.

September and October tend to be great months to save on cruises!

You may be able to enjoy a discount on select Norwegian Cruises when booking well ahead of your departure date.

Learn more about the details and eligibility requirements, and find locations near you at: https://www.ncl.com/

More Ways to Save Money at Norwegian Cruise Lines

The senior discount isn’t the only way to save money when you travel with Norwegian. Some other ways to save include:

• Booking in advance.
• Taking advantage of special promotions and offers. This is a great way to save on select Norwegian Cruises!
• Traveling during the off season. Cruises are typically less crowded and prices may be lower. Depending on where you go, you’ll still enjoy warm weather in September or October without all the crowds.

Related Senior Discounts

Find deals and discounts like this one on our big list of travel senior discounts .

Check out all the savings you may be eligible for with our f ull list of senior deals . 

Best Cruise Deals for Seniors: A Complete Guide to Finding Discounts and Tailored Amenities

Are you ready to set sail on a relaxing adventure tailored just for you? Picture this: you, basking in the warm sun, cruising the open sea, all while enjoying the best cruise deals specifically designed for seniors. Sounds enticing, doesn’t it?

Navigating through the sea of cruise options can be overwhelming, especially when searching for the perfect getaway that caters to your needs as a senior traveler. That’s where we come in to make your voyage smoother and more enjoyable.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the top cruise deals ideal for seniors, ensuring you find the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and value. Get ready to embark on a stress-free journey filled with unforgettable experiences tailored just for you.

Key Takeaways

• Embarking on a cruise offers seniors relaxation, adventure, and convenience with tailored amenities and onboard activities.
• Booking during wave season and being flexible with travel dates can lead to significant savings on cruise deals.
• Many cruise lines provide exclusive discounts and special services for seniors, including discounted fares, onboard credits, and senior-friendly amenities.
• When choosing a cruise, consider factors like duration, itinerary, cabin accessibility, and comfort to enhance your cruising experience.
• Traveling during off-peak seasons and opting for inside cabins or older ships can be cost-effective ways for seniors to save money on their cruise vacations.

Understanding Cruise Deals for Seniors

Why seniors should consider cruising.

Embarking on a cruise can offer seniors a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and convenience. Imagine waking up to stunning sea views, enjoying gourmet meals, and exploring exotic destinations, all without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. Cruises cater to seniors with various onboard activities, entertainment, and amenities tailored to their needs.

The Best Times to Book for Optimal Deals

To secure the best cruise deals, timing is crucial. Booking your cruise during wave season, which typically runs from January to March, can lead to significant savings and added perks such as onboard credits or cabin upgrades. Additionally, consider being flexible with your travel dates as last-minute deals or off-peak season voyages can offer substantial discounts. Keep an eye out for special promotions around holidays like Black Friday or Cyber Monday, where cruise lines often offer exclusive discounts. By staying informed and planning strategically, you can maximize your savings on a memorable cruise vacation.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Deals for Seniors

Exclusive discounts for senior travelers.

When it comes to finding the best cruise deals for seniors, many cruise lines offer exclusive discounts tailored to cater to senior travelers. These discounts can range from discounted fares to onboard credits and complimentary amenities. For instance, popular cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises often have special senior rates for guests aged 55 and over.

Securing these exclusive discounts requires checking the eligibility criteria which may vary between cruise lines. It’s essential to keep an eye out for promotional offers specifically designed for seniors, as they can significantly reduce the overall cost of your cruise vacation. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can enjoy all the luxuries of a cruise at a more budget-friendly price point.

Amenities and Special Services for Seniors

Cruise lines recognize the unique needs of senior travelers and strive to provide tailored amenities and special services to enhance their cruising experience. From accessible staterooms and priority embarkation to special dietary accommodations and exclusive activities, seniors are well looked after on board.

Many cruise lines offer senior-friendly amenities such as spa packages, fitness classes, enrichment programs, and reserved seating at shows and events. Additionally, attentive staff members are on hand to assist seniors with any requirements they may have during the voyage, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all guests.

Taking advantage of these amenities and services can make your cruise vacation more relaxing and hassle-free. By selecting a cruise line that caters to the specific needs of seniors, you can enjoy a fulfilling and rejuvenating travel experience at sea.

How to Find the Best Cruise Deals for Seniors

Early booking vs. last-minute deals.

When it comes to finding the best cruise deals for seniors, you may wonder whether booking early or waiting for last-minute offers is the way to go. Booking early secures your preferred cabin type and itinerary, ensuring availability for popular cruises and specific cabin locations. However, last-minute deals can sometimes offer significant discounts if you are flexible with your travel dates and cabin choices. It’s essential to weigh the benefits of each approach based on your preferences and budget.

Utilizing Senior Discounts and Offers

One of the key strategies for accessing the best cruise deals for seniors is to utilize senior discounts and special offers provided by cruise lines. Many cruise companies offer discounts for passengers aged 55 and older, providing savings on select sailings and stateroom categories. Additionally, some cruise lines offer exclusive perks such as onboard credits, complimentary excursions, or dining upgrades for senior travelers. By taking advantage of these discounts and offers, you can enjoy a more affordable cruise experience tailored to your needs and preferences.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cruise

Duration and itinerary.

When selecting a cruise, prioritize the duration of the trip to match your preferences. Short cruises, lasting a few days, can be ideal for a quick getaway, while longer cruises offer extended exploration opportunities. Consider the itinerary carefully to ensure it aligns with your interests. If you enjoy scenic destinations or cultural experiences, opt for itineraries that cater to these preferences. For instance, a cruise that includes stops at historical ports or offers natural sightseeing excursions might be perfect for you.

Cabin Accessibility and Comfort

Check the accessibility of cabins to guarantee a comfortable stay during the cruise. Look for cabins equipped with features like grab bars, wider doorways, and roll-in showers if you have mobility concerns. Ensure that the cabin layout suits your needs, whether you prefer a cozy interior cabin or a spacious suite with a private balcony. Additionally, assess the amenities available in the cabin to enhance your comfort throughout the voyage. Features like plush bedding, ample storage, and a functional layout can contribute significantly to a relaxing and enjoyable cruise experience.

Money-Saving Tips for Senior Cruise Travelers

Traveling during off-peak seasons.

When booking your senior cruise, consider traveling during off-peak seasons. Cruise lines often offer discounted rates during less popular times of the year. By opting for these periods, you can enjoy significant savings on your cruise ticket. It’s a great way to experience your dream vacation while keeping your budget in check.

Opting for Inside Cabins or Older Ships

Another money-saving tip for senior travelers is to consider booking inside cabins or choosing older ships. Inside cabins are usually more budget-friendly compared to ocean-view or balcony cabins. While they may have less natural light, they can be a cost-effective choice for those looking to save money without compromising on the overall cruise experience.

Additionally, older ships, though they may lack some of the latest amenities found on newer vessels, often offer lower fares. These ships can still provide a fantastic cruising experience with comfortable accommodations and enjoyable activities onboard.

You’re now equipped with valuable insights to embark on your next fantastic cruise adventure tailored to your senior needs. Remember to consider factors like trip duration, itinerary, and cabin accessibility to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. By choosing the right cruise line and timing your trip wisely, you can make the most of exclusive discounts and amenities designed for seniors. Don’t forget to implement money-saving tips, such as traveling during off-peak seasons and exploring budget-friendly cabin options. With these considerations in mind, you’re all set to set sail on a memorable and relaxing cruise that caters to your preferences and guarantees a fantastic time at sea. Happy cruising!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what are the benefits of cruising for seniors.

A: Cruising offers seniors relaxation, adventure, and convenience with tailored onboard activities and amenities.

Q: Which cruise lines offer exclusive discounts and amenities for seniors?

A: Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises provide special offers and amenities for seniors.

Q: What factors should seniors consider when choosing a cruise?

A: Seniors should consider factors such as cruise duration, itinerary, cabin accessibility, and comfort.

Q: How can seniors save money on cruise vacations?

A: To save money, seniors can travel during off-peak seasons and consider inside cabins or older ships for budget-friendly options.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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How to Find Cheap Senior Citizen Cruise Deals?

Find cheap Senior Citizen Cruise deals with our CruiseBooking tips. Browse cruise discounts and find budget-friendly options.

Book A Cruise Now

Cruising during the golden years is a dream for most people because people can tour new places and make great memories. However, senior citizens receiving a fixed income may find travel expenditures challenging. However, most cruise lines provide senior discounts and are available for those aged 55 years and above. This guide will look at the approaches and some cruise lines offering affordable options for seniors.

What Cruises Offer Cheap Senior Citizen Cruise Deals?

Carnival senior fares.

Carnival Cruise Line is well-known for giving discounts to those aged 55 years. The discounted fares, though, apply to specific dates and destinations. Seniors can visit Carnival’s Senior Cruise Deals Calendar at their official website to see the open deals. Seniors can find exclusive deals by entering their preferred dates, stateroom preferences, and departure locations. Deals may be limited to specific time frames, and thus flexibility is critical.

Choose this option if-: You can select travel dates and destinations and are interested in the family-friendly cruise experience with many activities and dining options.

Celebrity Cruises Senior Deals

Celebrity Cruises offers discounted fares to passengers aged 55 and older on some itineraries. Seniors are also able to choose and book a cruise . Afterward, they should enter the number of rooms and passengers and confirm eligibility for a senior discount. On the other hand, senior-specific deals can be found on various itineraries by contacting the cruise line directly or consulting a travel agent.

Choose this option if- You enjoy the latest and upmarket cruise experience with the broad range of onboard dining choices.

Norwegian Cruise Line Senior Discounts

Norwegian Cruise Line makes it possible to choose a discount from the list in online reservations. Seniors can select the “ Age 55+ discount ” option, enter their birthdate for verification, and search for eligible itineraries with senior rates. It is also advisable to call the cruise line and enquire about possible senior discounts in the future.

Choose this option if- You want a casual trip with flexible dining options and lively entertainment.

Royal Caribbean Over-55 Discounts

Royal Caribbean does have senior pricing for travelers over the age of 55 on certain sailings. Choosing the “Seniors (age 55+)” button at the booking stage shows available offers.

Choose this option if- It is a family trip with the latest entertainment and innovative adventures.

Cruise Deals for AARP Members

Senior discounts for cruises are also available to AARP members through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. There’s a list of existing offers, season and ship-line based. This may include discounts of up to 35% on some cruises, reduced deposits, or discounts for additional passengers.

Choose this option if- You are an AARP member, are flexible on your travel dates, and want to shop around for deals by multiple cruise lines .

Related:   Best Cruise Lines for Seniors

Acquiring cheap senior citizen cruise deals demands extensive research, flexibility, and knowledge of a cruise line’s offering. Seniors can access discounts through Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and AARP. Seniors can save money by considering the options of travel dates and cruise destinations , and they will have an unforgettable experience during their journey.

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10 Best Cruise Ship Discounts For Seniors

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Sailing across the sea without a worry in the world is the perfect way to celebrate your later years in life. However, that experience usually comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, with a little digging, you can find the perfect luxury cruise experience that won’t break the bank. Follow along as we round up the 10 best cruise ship discounts for seniors.

Norwegian Cruise Line

With Norwegian, seniors can enjoy $100 off select cruises and a 5% discount off all cruises booked at least nine months out. Known for its relaxed environment, Norwegian cruises ignore the usual cruise rules like dining times and dress codes. Due to this, seniors can enjoy a much more relaxed experience usually only reserved for more expensive, luxurious cruises. Cruises aboard Norwegian last anywhere from 3 to 21 days and sail across Alaska, Cuba, Hawaii, and many other places.

Azamara Club Cruises

Voted the best cruise for seniors by Guide For Seniors, Azamara has been known to give up to 15% off rates for seniors. However, these discounts often don’t become available until close to the departure date and require you to call Azamara to see what the actual discounts are. You can expect a personal butler service, shuttle service to and from port locations, and support for service animals aboard Azamara cruises.

Royal Caribbean

Seniors 55 years or older can get discounts aboard select Royal Caribbean cruises. Unfortunately, they don’t advertise these discounts to the public, so you have to call them at 1-800-256-6649 to find what discounts are available at any given time. It’s also important to know that discounts become more available the closer a trip is to departure. Seniors can enjoy an adults-only retreat, spa, library and card room, language classes, dance classes, scrapbooking, and guest lectures. There are also facilities for the deaf/hard-of-hearing and blind/visually impaired.

Silversea Cruises

While not specifically for seniors, Silverseas Cruises offers such discounts as 10% off fees and a $500 (USD) onboard credit for people who book their cruises far in advance. Silversea Cruises offer spacious, ocean-view suites with butler service and private verandas and voyages to over 900 destinations on all seven continents. Transportation to and from port towns, as well as the inclusion of gratuities in your fee, make Silversea the perfect relaxation getaway for seniors.

Carnival Cruise Line

Despite some of Carnival’s cruises catering to younger crowds looking for a party experience, Carnival also offers cruises for older travelers as well. In fact, seniors aged 55 and older are eligible for certain discounts.  You can see what discounts are available on Carnival’s calendar by date,  stateroom type, departure port, or destination. For more information, you can also call them at 1-(800) 929-6400.

Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises’ smaller ships offer an intimate and quiet experience perfect for seniors. You can sail across the Mediterranean while enjoying theater productions, dance classes, and a supportive one-to-three crew-member-to-passenger ratio. While Costa doesn’t post their discounts online, they are known to provide discounts for seniors. You can call them at 1 (800) 247-7320 to find out what discounts are available.

Celebrity Cruises

Glass dining rooms, formal foyers, libraries, bars, lawn games, live entertainment, and casinos make Celebrity Cruises the quintessential senior cruise experience. There are also facilities for the deaf/hard-of-hearing and blind/visually impaired. If you provide enough notice in advance, Celebrity Cruises can even customize your cruise to meet your individual needs. The best part is that Celebrity Cruises offers discounts on select cruises for seniors 55 years and older.

MSC Cruises

Enjoy a seniors cruise on a budget aboard MSC Cruises. In addition to such discounts as free sailing for kids under 11 (and even kids 12 to 17 on certain trips), MSC also offers discounts for seniors on select cruises. That said, they don’t post these discounts online so you’ll need to call them at 1 (877) 665-4655 to find out what senior discounts are available. Even without a discount, MSC offers Caribbean itineraries for less than $300 (USD) per person.

American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)

It doesn’t just apply to cruise lines, but joining the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is another way to find senior discounts for cruises. If you’re 50 years old or older, you’re eligible for discounts through AARP. All you have to do is book your cruises online through Expedia’s AARP Travel Center. As an example, seniors can earn up to $1,000 in onboard credit for select trips with major cruise lines. This credit can be used on anything from onboard food, drinks, live entertainment, and more.

Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC)

Similar to the AARP, after turning 50, you can join the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) to access more senior discounts on cruises. Currently, seniors can find discounts for cruise lines including Carnival, Crystal, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean International. To learn more or to book a discount cruise, visit TravelPerks.com/AMAC.

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Money Talks News

4 Ways to Get Senior Discounts on Cruise Trips

Posted: August 27, 2024 | Last updated: August 27, 2024

Some major cruise lines offer discounts to travelers as young as age 50. And members of certain organizations can access additional savings.

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Military Cruise Deals

Discounts on all cruises.

US Toll Free: 866-964-5482

International: 00-1-256-485-6792

International: 001-256-485-6792 Italy: 0418520050 mycruiseclub Email Us

Discounts for Military and Veterans on All River Cruises

My river cruise was one of my favorite cruises of all time. it’s a special thing. we’re glad you’re considering it., we provide a discount for military and veterans on every river cruise., who qualifies for our military and veteran discounts on river cruises.

American and Canadian active and retired military and Veterans, military spouses, and friends and family traveling with you!

Our river cruise discounts for military and veterans include:

• A discount off the river cruise line’s lowest rate;
• Discounted travel insurance;
• Expert advice from seasoned agents with experience on multiple river cruise ships, available 7 days a week.

So you’ll ALWAYS pay less when you book with Military Cruise Deals!

Here’s how you get your military/veteran discount applied:

• Use the links below or the blue search box in the right-hand column to see all your river cruise options.
• Then contact us and ask to speak to a river cruise expert who will make the booking and get all your discounts applied.

Military and Veteran Cruise Deals on all River Cruises by Cruise Line

Ama Waterways

Abercrombie and Kent

Military Discounts on all River Cruises by Destination

• Danube – Vienna, Austria, Prague, Germany, Budapest
• Duoro – Porto, Lisbon, Portugal; Madrid, Spain
• Dutch Waterways – Amsterdam, Netherlands; Tulips and Windmills
• French Rivers – Bordeaux, Lyon, Avignon, Paris, Cote d’Azur
• Italian Rivers – Milan, Venice
• Rhine – Zurich, Amsterdam, Cologne, Switzerland, France
• Russia Rivers – St. Petersburg, Moscow
• 14 day+ mulit-country – Budapest, Prague, Amsterdam

Two for one pricing on river cruises! Is it true?

Yes and no. The prices you see on their brochures and websites ALREADY HAVE that discount built-in. So don’t look at their prices and think that’s what you’ll pay for two people. Those are per-person rates!

River Cruise Departure Ports

• Amsterdam, Holland
• Basel, Switzerland
• Zurich, Switzerland
• Vienna, Austria
• Passua, Bavaria
• Remich, Luxembourg
• Porto/Lisbon

What's the ultimate insider’s tip about river cruising that you need to know? We'll tell you!

Although you may only have heard of Viking river cruises, (thanks to Downton Abbey), there are two other river cruise companies which are just as good but haven't had as much publicity.

This has resulted in the prices for Viking river cruises often being higher than Avalon or Ama Waterways, even though those latter two are just as good as Viking! We've based this conclusion of having viewed many Viking, Avalon and Ama waterways ships and knowing the amenities they offer and their comparative prices.

The new Viking longships are gorgeous. The design and decor are super sleek and contemporary. So Viking is worth paying for and will live up to your expectations.

But if the cruise itinerary and date you prefer is offered on Avalon or Ama Waterways for ⅓ less than it's offered on Viking, don't hesitate to take advantage of those savings and forgo being on Viking. Everything you'd have on Viking, you'll get on both those river cruise lines.

Which river cruise company has the nicest ships?

The only real difference among river cruise ships is the new v. the older. The ships built in the last three years are quite different than the ships built 10 to 20 years ago.

A new Viking, Avalon, Ama Waterways or Uniworld ship will look much different than an older ship in the same fleet. While they will all look "fancy", the new ships all have a contemporary, bright, fresh design and decor that is very appealing.

How many different river cruise companies are there?

The six primary luxury river cruise lines in the world ar e Viking, Avalon, Amawaterways, Crystal, Uniworld, and Tauck.

Crystal, Uniworld and Tauck are the most expensive because they include all spirits, gratuities and transfers.

Also, the Uniworld decor is distinctively more Victorian with far more fabric used than the decor of the others. If you like that sort of thing - Uniworld will be right for you. 

Crystal is more elaborate and luxurious-looking than Viking, Avalon, and Ama.

How much does a river cruise cost before the military discount is applied?

The average price for a 7 to 14-day river cruise is usually between $2000 and $6000 per person on Viking, Avalon and Ama Waterways; and $4000 to $8000 on Crystal, Uniworld, and Tauck.

If you go in the offseason like March or November and get only an ocean view cabin, you could pay as little as $1800 per person.

What is included in that price?

Your private room with private bathroom, three gourmet meals a day, specialty coffee, tea and bottled water, alcohol and beer with lunch and dinner, and daily shore excursions.

Crystal, Uniworld, and Tauck include all alcohol, soft drinks, transfers and gratuities - so they are really all-inclusive and are much more expensive than Viking, Avalon and Ama Waterways.

What’s not included on Viking, Avalon or Ama waterways? Transfers to the ship, travel insurance, salon services or gratuities.

Are there any more affordable river cruise lines?

Yes, on A-Rosa and Croisi, a 5-day cruise in an ocean view cabin could cost as little as $800 per person. See details about them below.

What are the river cruise ships like?

Dozens of new river cruise ships have been built in the last 3 years, and their sleek, contemporary design is spectacular. We’ve seen many of them in person! On the top deck expect a small pool and/or hot tubs, walking tracks, putting greens and on the new Viking ships - herb gardens!

What are river cruise staterooms like?

They range from:

* 170 sq ft rooms with small windows,

* French balconies,

* regular balconies, * and larger balcony suites, which can be up to 300 sq ft suites with panoramic views.

There are no 'inside or windowless' cabins on a river cruise ship.

What are river cruise excursions like?

Perfect! You are broken up into small groups, lead by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, given a wireless headset which makes for effortless listening while walking at your own pace, luxury bus transportation if necessary - everything you need to get the most out of your exciting, beautiful and historic destinations.

What was one of my favorite things about my most recent river cruise?

Seeing the baby lambs on the gorgeous green countryside along the river in Holland and hearing their tiny, squeaky bleats!

Internet access? All river cruises in Europe offer free high-speed Internet access! Each ship has a few computers guests may use.

Tipping? You are expected to tip about 14 Euro per day for the Program Director and Staff.

What travel documentation do you need?

You must have a passport for all travel outside the United States but will need a visa only if your river cruise goes to Russia, China, Egypt, Jordan or Southeast Asia.

Is airfare included in the price of a river cruise?

No. Sometimes free air is offered on select river cruises. But those are specific, limited promotions.

Tauck and Uniworld include transfers, even if you buy outside air.

Avalon, Ama Waterways and Viking only include transfers if you buy air through them.

What’s food on a river cruise like?

It's far far better than the food on your average ocean cruise ship. In general, there are a team of about 10 people in the kitchen cooking for 100 guests and they can get fresh, local produce and protein in every port - so it's easy for them to make the food special! Dining rooms are fancy.

Bicycling enthusiast?

Ama Waterways has more than two dozen bicycles on its ships that you are free to use throughout Europe.

Which rivers in Europe can you cruise on? Where do river cruises go?

River names below are underlined.

Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland, France, Germany

The Rhine runs from the Netherlands to Switzerland, along the French border, and through eastern Germany. Cruises from Amsterdam to Basel or vice versa, are on this river.

The Moselle flows through France, Luxembourg, and Germany and is known for excellent viewing of castles and wine tasting of local varieties such as Riesling. Cruises that do a pre or post-Paris land tour usually cruise the Moselle.

Germany, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Romania, and more Eastern Europe countries

Danube - flows from east to west: from southern Germany, through Vienna, Austria, along the southern border of Slovakia, down through Hungary, along Croatia and Serbia and is the natural border between Romania and Bulgaria, Ukraine and Moldova and then empties into the Black Sea.

Main river which is in central Germany and connects naturally to the Rhine and via man-made canal to the Danube. Cruises in the heart of Germany, from Frankfurt to Prague, cruise on this river.

The Main-Danube canal is 106 miles long and connects the Main and Danube, creating an unbroken stretch of 2200 miles from the North Sea to the Black Sea!

The Seine is in the northwest part of France, basically connecting Normandy and Paris.

Saone and Rhone are in the mid and south of France and can take you from the Cote d’Azur to Paris or vice versa.

The Canal du Midi runs along the south of France. It's so small, the ships usually only hold 24 or fewer passengers and are called hotel barges.

Loire - in west-central France. The only river cruise company on the Loire is Croisi.

Douro River in Porto

Volga - from St. Petersburg to Moscow

The longest river cruise is 24-days and goes from Amsterdam to Bucharest. Prices start at about $8000 per person.

The shortest river cruises are 3-days, on Croisi and start at about $738 per person.

What's the difference between a balcony and a French balcony?

A normal balcony is a sit-out balcony, which is an exterior space that contains chairs for you to sit on.

A French balcony means one wall of your cabin is a floor to ceiling sliding glass door that you can open and lean out of for a better view and fresh air.

A French balcony generally costs less than a regular sit-out balcony.

Viking and Ama Waterways have rooms which have a French balcony in the sleeping area of the cabin, and a sit-out balcony off the living room area of your cabin - so you can enjoy the balcony experience both ways! See below.

Are there any river cruise cabins that will hold more than two people?

Tauck is on the most expensive end of river cruises but has some ships with cabins that will hold two children in addition to two adults.

On ARosa and Croisi, children ages 2 - 16 cruise for free, as long as the one child shares the bed in the room. No additional beds, rollaways, will be provided.

Ama waterways also allow children age 4 - 10 to share a cabin with two adults, as long as the child will sleep in the bed with the parents. No additional bed will be provided. Call for price, depends on the date and length of the voyage.

Uniworld allows children on select voyages during summer, spring and holiday breaks. A family host is provided to help plan activities.

Avalon will not allow children younger than 8 on their ships, and they have no special organized activities for children. A third passenger is never allowed in any cabin type. Two people per cabin only.

Never heard of A-Rosa and Croisi? Here's what you need to know.

A-Rosa and Croisi don't offer the same level of luxury decor and gourmet cuisine as you'll find on Avalon, Ama Waterways, Viking, Tauck and Uniworld.

But they are still wonderful options in many ways.

A-Rosa also includes gratuities, free transfers, open bar throughout the ship, free beverages with dinner too including regional wines, free bottled water, complimentary use of bicycles aboard, free shore excursions in every port, flat screen tv's, putting green topside, pools or whirlpools, complimentary wifi, all port charges and taxes.

Croisi is a French, family-owned business that offers affordable river cruise. Most of the passengers are French or German, but most of the crew speaks some English. Below is the main lounge on one of the Croisi ships.

Croisi includes wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner year round, and offer unlimited drinks, including house spirits during the high season from April to October. Food and wine aboard are locally sourced and consistently good.

Croisi does not offer free shore excursions, however. And they do not have cabins with balconies of any kind.

Children under the age of 10 are eligible for a discounted rate year-around on every Croisi river cruise. On certain summer cruises in Spain, Portugal, Italy and Croatia, children age 16 and under are free.

Of their 40-some ships, four of them are new, 24-passenger 'hotel barges' that are small enough to fit through the tiny canals of Provence in the South of France. These small barges have wifi throughout, bicycles for guest use, en suite showers, TVs and windows. There are no balcony cabins on these special small hotel barges.

The picture below is of a hotel barge, cruising gently through the tiny Canal du Midi in the south of France. Adorable!!

Deposit requirements / Final payment dates / Cancellation fees

Avalon requires a $250 per person, non-refundable deposit, and final payment due 3 months (90 days) prior. Insurance based on price of package and includes cancel for any reason insurance for the cruise portion.

Viking requires $500 per person and final payment within 90 days. But often they try to get you to pay in full 6 to 9 months in advance! We can negotiate that down for you. If you cancel within 120 days for sailing, the fee is only $100 per person. At 90 days out, the fee is 15% of the cruise fare, and so on.

Ama Waterways, $400 pp deposit and final payment 90 days prior. $200 cancellation penalty if canceled before the final payment.

River Cruise Travel Insurance

The river cruise companies generally offer travel insurance for about $795 per person!! But that includes the ability to cancel for any reason and receive a future cruise credit.

We can often get the cost of travel insurance down to $250 per person, but this insurance only allows you to cancel for covered reasons, like death, illness or injury in the family, redeployment or revocation of leave. To read more about our trip cancellation insurance click here

Drink packages on River Cruise

On Viking, for beverages other than the free wine and beer offered with dinner, you could buy a beverage package.  See the details here . There is no corkage fee and you may bring local wine aboard and enjoy it with your meals.

No drink packages on Avalon or Ama Waterways. All drinks included on Tauck and Uniworld.

Have more questions about military discounts on all river cruises? That's what we're here for!

Call and ask to speak to a river cruise expert at 866-964-5482 or feel free to contact us any other way that works!

Most cruise lines only allow you to book a maximum of four people in a cabin. If you have more people traveling, you will most likely need multiple cabins. The way to use our website would be to enter the number of people you would like to have in your first cabin ONLY to check rates and availability. You can continue the process on our website to book your first cabin and then start again to book your next cabin. Or email us at [email protected] to assist you further.

• Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

COST of day trip to Moscow ??

By densol , February 26, 2012 in Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

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We have just booked a cruise to the Baltics for next year. I am trying to find out the average cost for a day trip to Moscow from STP. I have searched several times, and whilst I have read reviews and reports about the trips etc - I cannot actually see any examples of the costs. I imagine its quite expensive - but we want to do it so I need to budget LOL !!

Any ballpark figures ? :D

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We have just booked a cruise to the Baltics for next year. I am trying to find out the average cost for a day trip to Moscow from STP. I have searched several times, and whilst I have read reviews and reports about the trips etc - I cannot actually see any examples of the costs. I imagine its quite expensive - but we want to do it so I need to budget LOL !! Any ballpark figures ? Thanks

We did the Moscow trip through our cruise ship in late July 2008. Its cost was a little under $1000 pp. Now, that cost through this cruise line is a little over that $1000 pp cost. Now, most are using the high-speed rail connection versus the air flights as we did. I have seen some other numbers from other cruise lines and/or private firms that run $700-850.

Why cheaper or the differences? As cruise lines are pressured to keep their "sticker price" low, they need to make up some "margin" with ship tours, beverages, spa stuff, etc., to help cover their costs and gain some profit. Second, different tours provide various features. Our tour included going inside the famed and spectacular Kremlin Palace. Most Moscow tours don't feature that option and you cannot just walk up there and get in on your own. That Palace is where the Czars were crowned and all of the current/recent Russian leaders assumed their powers.

We could have saved a little if we had used a private tour to go to and visit Moscow, but, with my wife's pushing, we felt it was worth it to pay a little more, do it through the cruise line. If there had been any problems or mix-ups, it was the ship's duty to "make it right" and we would not have to worry.

If you have three days in St. Petersburg and/or have been there before, then the Moscow tour can work out very well. It's not cheap, but in my view, worth it!! Both are a few of my visuals from this super great city with such interesting history and dramatic architecture.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik . Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 66,454 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 60,364 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

One of the Kremlin Wall Towers in Moscow:

Walking on the famed Red Square of Moscow:

St. Basil's sits on Red Square and dates back to its 1555-61 construction on the orders of Ivan the Terrible (Ivan IV). It commemorates the capture of Kazan and Astrakhan and marks the geometric center of the city. This location has been the hub of its growth for Moscow since the 14th century. It was the tallest building in Moscow until the completion of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower in 1600. This church was near destroyed in the 1930’s when Stalin was in control.:

Here is a small sampling of the Kremlin Royal Treasures of the Czars: Eggs & Jewels insicde the famed Armory.:

Moscow’s subways are called the “People’s Palaces” with their marble coverings and unique designs for each of the different and many stations.:

This is the interior for Moscow's most historic church, Assumption Cathedral or the Cathedral of the Dormition, inside the Kremlin walls. It is the mother church of Muscovite Russia. The church stands on Cathedral Square and was built in 1475–1479 by the Italian architect Aristotele Fioravanti. It was erected on the spot of an older 14th century cathedral of the same name:

We did the day trip to Moscow with Alla-tour and were very pleased with our tour. Our guide whose English was great was a wealth of information and the day went very smoothly. I checked the web site and Alla's prices for 2012 range from $884 a person for two down to $542 a person for 6 with the 5% cruisecritic discount. So if you can get a group together the per person price goes down considerably. You can try to do this on the roll call section of cruisecritic.

We did not go to the Palace and as Terry says this is not included generally in tours. However, we did go to the Diamond Fund, an amazing display of crown jewels and jewelry in the Armoury building but not really part of the Armoury. I would think you could include this if you had a small group and really wanted to see it. It is quite small and does not accommodate a large group. You can google "diamond fund kremlin" to learn more.

Here are some of my pictures

Red Square with St. Basil’s at the far end

Kremlin Cathedral Square

Bolshoi Theatre

Treasures at the Armoury

200 ton Tsar Bell

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

We did the day trip to Moscow with Alla-tour and were very pleased with our tour. Our guide whose English was great was a wealth of information and the day went very smoothly. I checked the web site and Alla's prices for 2012 range from $884 a person for two down to $542 a person for 6 with the 5% cruisecritic discount. So if you can get a group together the per person price goes down considerably. You can try to do this on the roll call section of cruisecritic. We did not go to the Palace and as Terry says this is not included generally in tours. However, we did go to the Diamond Fund, an amazing display of crown jewels and jewelry in the Armoury building but not really part of the Armoury. I would think you could include this if you had a small group and really wanted to see it. It is quite small and does not accommodate a large group. You can google "diamond fund kremlin" to learn more.

Well said, cadreamer! (nice photos, by the way).

We also used Alla. She is just a super person to work with and, if you get a group together, she will accomodate what YOU want to do!! You can check-out her Moscow tour at:

http://www.alla-tour.com/tours/1

As cadreamer suggests, go to your roll call on Cruise Critic & see if you can get a group together.

Terry, your pix, per usual, are awesome! Still envious! :)

Terry, your pix, per usual, are awesome! Still envious! :) jill

Appreciate, Jill, the kind comments! Envy is GOOD!!

Below are a few more visuals on Moscow that are more "interesting". Fascinating to having seen both cities, back-to-back. It really puts all of this unique Russian history and architecture in better perspective.

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik . Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 67,001 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

The famed KGB (Secret Police) Headquarters in Moscow where many entered and did not exit (alive) during the 1950’s and 1960’s:

Kremlin Treasures: Royal coaches:

Young Military Officers on the streets of Moscow with Soviet "High Hat".:

These are the series of smaller domes on the top of the Church of the Deposition of the Robe in the Kremlin Cathedral Square area.:

Inside the newly, more westernized GUM Department Store:

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Ukraine war latest: Extra security at 'extremely exposed' nuclear plant - as Moscow takes action against US newspapers

Russian officials are stepping up security measures at a nuclear plant in Kursk, where Ukrainian forces have seized land. Meanwhile, Moscow has banned entry to more than 20 US journalists.

Wednesday 28 August 2024 23:04, UK

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• Extra security at 'extremely exposed' Russian nuclear plant
• Moscow takes action against US newspapers
• Russian missile hits Zelenskyy's home town on day of mourning
• Ukraine 'trying to break into' new Russian region
• Watch: Who are Ukraine's secret resistance?
• Your questions answered: Can Ukraine advance further inside Russia?

We'll be back with more updates and analysis tomorrow, but before we go, here's a recap of the key developments that took place today:

• A Russian missile struck Volodymyr Zelenskyy's home town of Kryvyi Rih;
• Ukrainian drones set oil tanks on fire at a depot in Russia's Rostov region and a depot in Russia's western region of Kirov, according to reports;
• Russia said it wanted the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take a "more objective and clearer" stance on nuclear energy after its chief visited Kursk's nuclear power plant;
• Russian troops claimed to have defused an unexploded US-supplied missile that they said was shot down and found near the Kursk nuclear facility;
• Sir Keir Starmer and Olaf Scholz said the UK and Germany's support for Ukraine remained "unyielding";
• Additional security measures will be introduced at Kursk's nuclear plant from tomorrow, authorities in the region said.

Pavel Durov, the chief executive of Telegram, has been charged with allegedly allowing criminal activity on the messaging app.

French judges have barred Mr Durov from leaving France pending further investigation, but he has avoided being held in custody with a €5m bail.

The billionaire was arrested in France on Saturday after his private jet landed at Le Bourget airport outside Paris.

The Russian-born entrepreneur - who became a French citizen in 2021 - is accused of operating a platform which is being used for child sexual abuse material and by organised crime gangs, for drug trafficking and fraud.

Telegram has insisted it abides by EU laws and its moderation is "within industry standards and constantly improving".

Its statement added: "It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner is responsible for abuse of that platform."

Mr Durov's arrest in France, and four days of questioning, has caused outrage in Russia.

Paper planes - representing Telegram's logo - haver been placed in Moscow in support of the billionaire.

Some government officials claim his detention was politically motivated and proof of the West's double standard on freedom of speech.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call that Russia was ready to provide Durov with all necessary assistance given his Russian citizenship, but that his French citizenship complicated the situation. 

We have been reporting today on Russia's advances in the direction of the key mining city of Pokrovsk, which sits in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region.

Moscow sees taking control of the city as an important stepping stone to annexing the entire Donbas region.

And Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned the situation near Pokrovsk is "difficult".

Now, security expert Maria Avdeeva has shared footage from inside Pokrovsk and said the city is "tense" and "preparing for the looming Russian offensive".

NATO members have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen Ukraine's defences at a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council today.

"Ukraine continues to intercept Russian missiles on a daily basis, saving countless lives. But Ukraine's ability to maintain their defences requires increased supply and more support," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in a statement.

"In the wake of the latest Russian assault, allies today reaffirmed they are stepping up their military aid to Ukraine.

"We must continue to provide Ukraine with the equipment and munitions it needs to defend itself against Russia's invasion. This is vital for Ukraine's ability to stay in the fight."

The fear of escalation by Western allies is the "biggest problem" faced by Kyiv as it battles Russia, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has said.

"Ever since the beginning of the large-scale invasion, the biggest problem Ukraine has been facing is the domination of the concept of escalation in the decision-making processes among our partners," Mr Kuleba said.

The Ukrainian minister made the comment during a conversation with Polish foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski.

He also said: "The war is always about a lot of hardware: money, weapons, resources but the real problems are always here, in the heads.

"Most of our partners are afraid of discussing the future of Russia. This is something that is very upsetting because if we do not speak about the future of the source of threat, then we cannot build strategy."

Ukraine has relied heavily on the West to supply it with weapons and hardware and financial assistance to hold out against Russia.

But Kyiv is pushing the West to give it the long-range weapons - and the authorisation - to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. It also wants help shooting down incoming missiles.

The United Nations Security Council are meeting to discuss the latest situation in Ukraine.

It comes after a Russian missile struck Volodymyr Zelenskyy's home town of Kryvyi Rih today.

You can watch the meeting in the stream above.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that a Russian airstrike earlier in the day on the eastern town of Kupyansk had resulted in some deaths, without providing a number.

The Ukrainian leader has also said in his nightly address that the West should lift restrictions on long-range airstrikes by Ukraine because it would help end the war.

"There was a strike with a guided aerial bomb on Kupyansk - right in the city centre, people were under the rubble. Unfortunately, there are fatalities," Mr Zelenskyy said.

Kupyansk, which is located 22 miles from the border with Russia, was hit in the afternoon, local officials said. 

The strike injured 14 people and damaged the building of the city hall, the regional prosecutor's office wrote earlier on the Telegram messaging app.

Russian TV has begun filming for a fictionalised comedy series in which Joe Biden travels to Russia undercover.

The drama will centre around the US president travelling to the country to find out "why sanctions aren't working against Russians", the Moscow Times reports, citing the Russian television channel TNT.

While in Russia, Mr Biden loses his passport and ends up living in a Soviet-era flat and working as an English teacher so he can make money and return home.

Russian actor Dmitriy Dyuzhev is set to play the role of Mr Biden.

The comedy, which is entitled Goodbye, is set to premiere next year.

Russia has banned entry to 92 US citizens, including journalists, lawyers and the heads of what it claims are key military and industrial firms upholding "Washington's Russophobic stance".

The list, published on Telegram by Moscow's foreign ministry, includes 14 Wall Street Journal employees, five New York Times journalists and four from the Washington Post.

The ministry said it was targeting editorial staff and reporters from "leading liberal-globalist publications" involved in producing and disseminating what it described as "fakes" about the Russian armed forces.

It comes weeks after the Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was freed by Moscow in an extensive prisoner swap after nearly 500 days in a Russian jail on espionage charges.

The ministry wrote: "In response to the Russophobic course pursued by the Biden administration with the declared goal of 'inflicting a strategic defeat on Moscow', an integral part of which has become 'carpet' sanctions against Russian politicians, representatives of the business community, scientists and cultural figures, journalists and media structures, entry into the Russian Federation is permanently closed for 92 US citizens."

For context : This is not the first time the Kremlin has banned dozens of media representatives from the West.

Since launching its war in Ukraine, it has cracked down on Russian and foreign independent news outlets.

Legislation was also introduced soon after the war to criminalise media outlets spreading "false information" about the Russian army.

Additional security measures will be introduced at Kursk's nuclear plant from tomorrow, authorities in the region have said.

The measures will see the entrance to the town of Kurchatov, where the plant is located, temporarily restricted, Alexei Smirnov, acting governor of the Kursk region, wrote on Telegram .

"Despite the fact that the security of the Kursk nuclear power plant is maximally ensured, the armed forces of Ukraine do not abandon their attempts to enter the city," he said.

"In this regard, and also in order to ensure additional security measures, the operational headquarters has decided to restrict entry to Kurchatov in the near future."

The statement comes after Russian troops claimed they had defused an unexploded US-supplied missile that was shot down and found near the Kursk nuclear facility (see post at 10.15am).

What do we know about the plant?

Yesterday, nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi issued a warning about the danger of a nuclear accident at Kursk's nuclear power plant.

Mr Grossi said the plant's nuclear reactor was "extremely exposed" to attack and the facility lacked the containment dome and protective structure that is typical of modern nuclear power stations.

"This is why we believe that a nuclear power plant of this type, so close to a point of contact or a military front, is an extremely serious fact that we take very seriously," he said.

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Note: The safety and security of our guests, crew and communities we visit is our top priority. Due to the escalated situation between Russia and Ukraine we have made the decision to alter itineraries and remove calls to St. Petersburg, Russia from our sailings indefinitely.

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