New Cruiser

[Maura]

My family will be taking it's first cruise in June. My 72 year old father will be going this will even be his first ride on an airplane and first sight of the Ocean.
We would apperciate any information or tips anyone can share. We will be on the vision of the Seas in Alaska.

I must reply to this. We had a similar situation 6 years ago. My husband and I were planning a cruise out of Miami. My 66 year old mother had never been on a ship and never flown. She did not like the idea of either, but she got it in her head that she wanted to go with us. So she did. Even though she got sick halfway through the cruise, she still came home raving about the cruise and talking about going on another one. She died 4 months later. What wonderful memories we have of that week.

[Greyson]

Maura, check the Alaska cruise chat page for some suggestions of excursions, etc. I have placed a few in that section. You will have a great time, guaranteed. Where do you live now?

[Mabob1]

One of the most difficult things encountered on a cruise for someone that age will probably be the lifeboat drill that requires standing for a lengthy period of time and walking stairs (no elevators in lifeboat drills).

You may want to talk to the cruise line about exempting him from the drill, or at least making special provisions so it's not a physical burden to him.

[LisaP]

Maura, this trip sounds wonderful! I'm sure this trip will give rise to fabulous memories for your family.

How active is your dad? When my father-in-law was 72, I could barely keep up with him.

[Maura]

Thanks for the helpful responses. I appreciate you all taking the time to respond.