Holland America just for "old people?"

[billrco90278]

Holland America has a reputation of being for old people. Is this a stereotype or does it contain some or a lot of truth? At 55, I am not spring chicken myself, but do want to be with a lot of active people of all ages.

[RevNeal]

Define old.
You are older than I am.
I have been cruising HAL since 1994.

[Atomica]

My girlfriend and I are in our twenties, and HAL is our line of choice.

It's most definately a stereotype. You will find people of all ages onboard. Plus, some of the 'old' people onboard are up later than I am :)

[Namvet4]

billrco90278,
I have yet to cruise on HAL... but I have been cruising the CC boards... There has been a lot of discussion about the so-called "old people" label that is tagged to this venerable cruise line.
My DW and I are in our early 60's... There are days when I feel like I am a 100+ :( But, the way I figure it, "young" and "old" are definitely a state of mind when you're on vacation, especially on a cruise. :) I leave it to you to read through various threads and posts, via a search, and make up your own mind... The people who post here seem very energetic, outgoing and full of life and energy. These are the people I am looking forward to meeting and cruising with!
(And... I put more faith in the impressions I get from these posters than what a TA may tell me about " Oh, You''l be the younguns on Holland America...Blah! Blah! Blah!)
Just my 2 cents….

[Mary Ellen]

You're also a few years older than I - and I've been happily cruising with HAL since I was 26. We've always experienced a nice mix of ages. Face it, the older folks onboard are out enjoying life (and cruising) rather than being homebound.

[hammybee]

Demographics ( thank you Grumpy) are often more a function of time of year and duration of the cruise.

I am younger than you and have been on some HAL cruises and not only felt, but looked older than the average passenger. Conversely, I have been on other HAL cruises and it was the opposite and either way, it made no difference in the experience.

[unclerich]

We're the same age as you. We were on the Westerdam (West Carib) in 2005, the Noordam (Western Med) in May 2006. Currently booked on the Rotterdam for Northern Europe/Baltic for 2007. Previous cruises on Celebrity (in the 'good old days') and Princess.

Unless you're really looking for rock walls and having most of the ship staying up all night, HAL is a pretty attractive option.

Richard

[oh2gocruisin]

Definitely a stereotype description. We took a Med cruise in May on the Noordam and there was a wide variety of ages, from 20s to 80s. I would say the median age group repesented was late 40s to early 60s.

[TWELVEOHONE]

Holland America has a reputation of being for old people. Is this a stereotype or does it contain some or a lot of truth? At 55, I am not spring chicken myself, but do want to be with a lot of active people of all ages.

I know many do not want to hear this but here it goes anyway

There is always a few exptions to everthing, i.e. some younger people on HAL but in general they attarct an older passenger. Not only older in age but older in spirit.

This is a reputation earned by HAL over the years. a long time ago. For several years now they have tried to lower the average age and change the reputation. They incorprated kids programs and advertise to families.

One of the unofficial measurments is to go to the disco and other public lounges at 12 midnight or later and see how many are still awake and partying. Most ships 60% or more are still up and partying, while on HAL it is consideraly less than 50%.

Many a comedian on other ships use the HAL older age as part of their jokes.

[fcorey]

Holland America has a reputation of being for old people. Is this a stereotype or does it contain some or a lot of truth? At 55, I am not spring chicken myself, but do want to be with a lot of active people of all ages.


Hmmm, I'm 36 does that make me old?? ;)

[imacrusing]

I know many do not want to hear this but here it goes anyway

There is always a few exptions to everthing, i.e. some younger people on HAL but in general they attarct an older passenger. Not only older in age but older in spirit.

This is a reputation earned by HAL over the years. a long time ago. For several years now they have tried to lower the average age and change the reputation. They incorprated kids programs and advertise to families.

One of the unofficial measurments is to go to the disco and other public lounges at 12 midnight or later and see how many are still awake and partying. Most ships 60% or more are still up and partying, while on HAL it is consideraly less than 50%.

Many a comedian on other ships use the HAL older age as part of their jokes.


Frankly, I hope people keep thinking that because ni lound mouthed, nasty talking teenagers, no lound mouthed drunk college kids..I like the mix mostly 40 up crowd, when we cruise in fall and not during summer time..there is a cruise line for us all. If you want parties..go carnival..if you want rest, relaxation and nice groups of sane folks..go HAL.

JMHO

[Grumpy1]

One of the unofficial measurments is to go to the disco and other public lounges at 12 midnight or later and see how many are still awake and partying. Most ships 60% or more are still up and partying, while on HAL it is consideraly less than 50%.
So, if partying all night in a crowded disco is your thing, cruise Carnival or RCCL. If you want an enjoyable cruise with a mix of all ages and a little more mellow late night group, you'll find HAL to be an excellent choice.

[jhannah]

Sure, HAL is for old people.

Oxygen bars are not just trendy offerings onboard, but necessities for daily survival.

Pool games include diving for teeth; walker toss; Geritol chugging; and "who's hair is it, anyway?"

Metamucil is a favorite drink in the Explorer's Lounge.

The ship is perfumed by the wonderful aroma of Ben-Gay.

So if you don't fit the stereotype, you'll probably be happier sailing with another line.

My bad! :D

[KAYEF]

We're not "old" either and HAL is our line of choice............nice people, great itineraries, excellent staff.
Tried NCL and Princess and on BOTH we had loud, out of control young (13 - 16 or so) teenagers running up and down the halls, yelling, banging on doors past midnight..........jumping out at each other from elevators they'd comandeered, etc.
AND, the cabins and bathrooms on both of those lines were much smaller, if that matters to you.;)
Of course, that's a sign of bad parenting, but if the parents won't parent, the ship's staff needs to step in. Many of us called the front desk; not much happened.
We found HAL to offer a much more relaxing atmosphere.
As for "old".................it's difficult to get into the gyms some days........
lots of active people and people who are great for visiting/learning.
Enjoy!!:)

[LolaWiz]

My girlfriend and I are in our twenties, and HAL is our line of choice.

It's most definately a stereotype. You will find people of all ages onboard. Plus, some of the 'old' people onboard are up later than I am :)
my hubby and i are in the exact same "boat" :D
we are 23 and 24 and we will happily be taking our 3rd cruise with HAL in december.

[middle-aged mom]

LOL ALERT :) LOL ALERT

We're leaving in one week on our first cruise ever. Gee, I wish I had known before I booked that my family and I were too young to cruise on HAL. Do you think they'll let us on? What about the 128 kids (ages 3-17) and their parents who are also booked on our cruise? Their whole cruising experience will be ruined because they have to hang around a bunch of (shudder) old people.:eek:

I guess I qualify as an "old person". I'm usually in bed by 11 pm, and I'm not crazy about discos.

I don't know about my mom, though. We're bringing her along, and she's pretty wild!! She's probably going to force me to stay up until midnight! And she thinks she's young enough to go dog-sledding on a glacier!!:rolleyes: I'm probably going to have to ask my 17-year-old daughter to keep an eye on her grandma.:D

[AlohaPride]

my hubby and i are in the exact same "boat" :D
we are 23 and 24 and we will happily be taking our 3rd cruise with HAL in december.

My DH and I are 23 and 24 also, and we will be taking our first cruise on HAL in december (Noordam out of NY). From what I've read, and also the people I've "met" on these boards, we will feel right at home :D

[hammybee]

[QUOTE=TWELVEOHONE]One of the unofficial measurments is to go to the disco and other public lounges at 12 midnight or later and see how many are still awake and partying. Most ships 60% or more are still up and partying, while on HAL it is consideraly less than 50%.

__________________________________________________ ______________

As previously posted, I am younger than th OP and have been on HAL ships where I looked and was older than the average. Of course the cruise was during prime time vacation time and it was all about young families. Many folks with young kids are not out beyond the close of the kids clubs, for the obvious reasons. They have a responsibility to their children.

If you are looking for a very late party scene, HAL is probably not the best cruiseline for you.

[booboo29]

So, if partying all night in a crowded disco is your thing, cruise Carnival or RCCL. If you want an enjoyable cruise with a mix of all ages and a little more mellow late night group, you'll find HAL to be an excellent choice.

DH and I are both in our thirties and we have been sailing HAL for 6 years and see no reason to change. We enjoy ALL of the people we meet on the ships, regardless of their age.
Folks are always suprised that we like HAL so much, they feel we should be traveling on Carnival based on our age. We were once docked in Cozumel next to a Carnival ship at 11pm and watched as the police escorted (carried) really drunk people back to the Carnival ship. We could hear and see a real party atmosphere on the Carnival ship. Folks were really hacing a good time, which is fantactic. We enjoy a good time too, but the Crow's Nest is more our idea of what a good time should be. No rock wall, no disco, no strobe lights etc. After a full day exploring a new port, or relaxing on a sea day, a nice evening with a relaxing dinner and after dinner stroll around the ship is all we need and HAL provides just the atmosphere we are looking for.:D

Frank and Jennifer

[Mack704]

Thanks for the laugh, Jim. DW and I, (55 & 56) always participate in every one of those activities, on every cruise. ;)

Harvey

[Navy_Chief]

Sure, HAL is for old people.

Oxygen bars are not just trendy offerings onboard, but necessities for daily survival.

Pool games include diving for teeth; walker toss; Geritol chugging; and "who's hair is it, anyway?"

Metamucil is a favorite drink in the Explorer's Lounge.

The ship is perfumed by the wonderful aroma of Ben-Gay.

So if you don't fit the stereotype, you'll probably be happier sailing with another line.

My bad! :D
Jim, that O2 come with a 15% tip already included??:D

[RuthC]

Ben Gay? I'm dating him! :D

(and please don't tell him about those other guys I'm involved with: Charlie Horse, and Arthur Itis.;) )

[Grumpy1]

Ben Gay? I'm dating him! :D

(and please don't tell him about those other guys I'm involved with: Charlie Horse, and Arthur Itis.;) )Just stay away from Mel Anoma...

[wizard-of-roz]

Okay, Okay! You guys have sold me.....I too, heard that HAL was really a sedate cruise line and you know what? I'm glad to hear it!

By the time I've gotten to the cruise ship, I'm so, so ready to RELAX!

Oh sure! I'll drink some, I'll play some and I'll dance some! But mostly, I just want to RELAX!

I don't want to hear screaming kids running down the hall or jumping from elevator to elevator.....or drunk young people staggering into and out of the lounges......We once watched a young woman winding her way around the pool in a drunkin stooper, dangling over the pool! NEVER AGAIN! (Carnival)!

We only cruise after school has started!!!!! :D

[kakalina]

Jim: let us not forget about the:

Make a ship with Polident adhesive contest
How many prunes can you eat, dance:eek:
The wheelchair races in the corridors
Not to mention the guess how many people will visit the Doctor lottery
:D Trisha :D

[hammybee]

It all " DEPENDS".

[serendipity1499]

Ben Gay? I'm dating him! :D

(and please don't tell him about those other guys I'm involved with: Charlie Horse, and Arthur Itis.;) )

Hey they're douuble crossing me!:( I've been seeing all of them too..I've also been flirting with Al Zymer..

Ruth maybe you & I should take them to court & each ask them for
"Child err Chocolate Support"..:cool:

[SDHALFAN]

Well Serendipity and Ruth C,

I'm very happy to hear that you have not been making any moves on Arthur Itis, because he's mine: I saw him first, doddering old coot that he is!

Actually, I think that we HAL enthusiasts should be responding to that ever popular question with a resounding "YES - you are too young for HAL", that way it leaves more room on the glorious HAL ships for the rest of us oldies but goodies to enjoy.:D

Gotta go now, it's time for my Aerobics class, oh and then I have a Pilates workout scheduled right after that one. I'll probably come home, shower, down a yogurt and then head off to the disco (NOT):D .

Valerie:)

[SDHALFAN]

Ruth C,

I missed the addendum to your post. You hussy: you have been seeing Arthur Itis - that swine who swore allegiance to me and only me, or was that Charlie Horse? I must be having a "senior moment". I'll get back to you yesterday as soon as I find my date book, or is that cookbook? No matter, I will figure it out as soon as I find my reading glasses. Let's see, I think I put them in the cupboard filed right next to the drinking glasses so I wouldn't forget where I put them.

Okay, now what was the question?

Valerie:D

[love2vacation]

So, do I assume since no one wants to be out in the sun, (fear of Mel Anoma) that there won't be any chair hogs near the pools.:confused: LOL

Looking at booking for next year and you are right, HAL does have some interesting ITNs. We like some night life after dinner- a good comedian or show, is the line up for those things pretty good? We are not disco people, not big partiers, we like to read and relax in between seeing the ports. HAL sounds like it might be a good fit for us.

[serendipity1499]

Well Serendipity and Ruth C,

I'm very happy to hear that you have not been making any moves on Arthur Itis, because he's mine: I saw him first, doddering old coot that he is!

Actually, I think that we HAL enthusiasts should be responding to that ever popular question with a resounding "YES - you are too young for HAL", that way it leaves more room on the glorious HAL ships for the rest of us oldies but goodies to enjoy.:D

Gotta go now, it's time for my Aerobics class, oh and then I have a Pilates workout scheduled right after that one. I'll probably come home, shower, down a yogurt and then head off to the disco (NOT):D .

Valerie:)

Agree Valerie they are too young for HAL..They won't be able to keep up with us "Oldies"..LOL;) Betty

[newmexicoNita]

I know many do not want to hear this but here it goes anyway

There is always a few exptions to everthing, i.e. some younger people on HAL but in general they attarct an older passenger. Not only older in age but older in spirit.

This is a reputation earned by HAL over the years. a long time ago. For several years now they have tried to lower the average age and change the reputation. They incorprated kids programs and advertise to families.

One of the unofficial measurments is to go to the disco and other public lounges at 12 midnight or later and see how many are still awake and partying. Most ships 60% or more are still up and partying, while on HAL it is consideraly less than 50%.

Many a comedian on other ships use the HAL older age as part of their jokes.HAL is working very hard to attract the under 50 crowd and families;so far it hasn't been a total success but they are getting there slowly. We are among those past 20 something;3 1/2 times past and are now giving the line a shot. I have had clients of all ages cruise HAL and never had one complaint but in every case the remarks have been the same: everyone gets up at 6am and goes to bed about 9pm. Of course this isn't totally true, but certainly the line does attract an older crowd and the longer the cruise the older the crowd.That's ok, every age group needs to find thier fit. NMNita

[newmexicoNita]

Sure, HAL is for old people.

Oxygen bars are not just trendy offerings onboard, but necessities for daily survival.

Pool games include diving for teeth; walker toss; Geritol chugging; and "who's hair is it, anyway?"

Metamucil is a favorite drink in the Explorer's Lounge.

The ship is perfumed by the wonderful aroma of Ben-Gay.

So if you don't fit the stereotype, you'll probably be happier sailing with another line.

My bad! :D
WE certainly fit the age but have to work on the pool games and the perume. All in all, this was one of the funniest I have read. It so fits the 65 plus crowd. NMnita

[kryos]

There is always a few exptions to everthing, i.e. some younger people on HAL but in general they attarct an older passenger. Not only older in age but older in spirit.

I don't think I would term it "older in spirit," but rather "more refined." The average HAL passenger is not the party type ... and that's why you won't find them in the disco much after midnight.

I think every cruise line has it's "typical" passenger, and on HAL that would be someone usually upper-middle class in income level, prefering quiet pursuits like a good book or working on needlepoint. The typical HAL passenger wants good food, and impeccable service. They don't care if there's non-stop activities going on during the day. They are quite content to make their own entertainment ... good conversation, a good book, whatever.

Now contrast this with what I would imagine the typical RCCL passenger. Younger, physically active, part of a family group or a group of friends traveling together. Wants active days and nights ... with lots to do ... new experiences, good times. While good food is probably a consideration, I doubt it would be as important a consideration as to a HAL passenger. Facilities would be paramount to the RCCL cruiser, because often he is cruising as part of a large family group and there has to be plenty to engage everybody. While HAL cruisers may travel in groups too ... often those groups are not comprised of such diverse age ranges as would be the case on an RCCL cruise.

I know these are just generalizations ... of course, there are exceptions. Because there are so many cruise lines out there, each with its own unique personality, that's why it's so important to work with a good travel agent when booking a cruise ... especially your first cruise. In fact, I recommend consulting with several of them before booking ... just to make sure you're truly getting objective advice and not merely being routed to the cruise line that pays that particular agent the best commission.

I think I've mentioned on this board before ... while I love HAL, I would never recommend it to some of my friends because I know they would be bored stiff on a HAL cruise. For active families, I usually recommend RCCL ... with their rock climbing wall, bungee trampolines and flow rider. Kids love that stuff. Parents love to see the kids busy and happy ... because that makes their own vacation better.

But when I see a more "mature" (not necessarily in age) couple ... with maybe one or two younger children ... I will often recommend HAL ... especially if I know that they prefer "refined" types of experiences.

It's a shame HAL has a reputation as an "old people's" line of choice. I think part of the reason for that is because in the past HAL did a lot of longer cruises, which were a magnet for the older set. Of course, HAL is still known for its longer, more exotic voyages, but they are also trying to appeal to the younger set as well with their Vista ships and their seven to ten-day popular destination itineraries. Now the age range is coming down. But HAL will still draw the more mature traveler ... since they don't have very much (in comparison to a Disney or RCCL) to keep the younger set engaged.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[OceanFantasys]

Sure, HAL is for old people.

Oxygen bars are not just trendy offerings onboard, but necessities for daily survival.

Pool games include diving for teeth; walker toss; Geritol chugging; and "who's hair is it, anyway?"

Metamucil is a favorite drink in the Explorer's Lounge.

The ship is perfumed by the wonderful aroma of Ben-Gay.

So if you don't fit the stereotype, you'll probably be happier sailing with another line.

My bad! :D

Lol.. got me laughin again. You guys are so funny !! I think I am gonna love sailing on Hal. We are middle aged i guess you would say. 50 and 55. Certainly not big partiers anymore. We left those days back on the Carnival ships. Although our last cruise was on RCL and they had a mens leg contest at the pool.. It was an interesting site I much say.. teehee:p

Rhonda

[Bramcruiser]

HAL is not an age thing - its a state of mind. The average HAL passenger appreciates the lack of loud announcements, the lack of drinks pushed everywhere you go, the lack of body parts contests and the lack of a constant party atmosphere. That doesn't necessarily mean HAL passengers don't like to have fun - there is a disco, pools, a casino, etc. However, the typical HAL passenger appreciates the classy decor and the more subdued life. Its not a dressed to the nines black tie affair 24/7 either. Sure there are formal nights but casual and comfortable is the name of the game in the day or casual nights.

Somehow a lot of people tend to translate class to being old. There is a larger proportion of elderly people on HAL but there are lots of us middle-aged folks and younger people as well. So this reputation that HAL has as being a floating retirement home is just plain ridiculous. Its so bad that we know of travel agents trying to push potential customers away. There definitely needs to be some retraining on the public on this whole issue. I only recently discovered HAL but I can safely say that if I had sailed on her back when i was in my 20s it would still have been one of my lines of choice.

[sandytoesrose]

My husband & I are in our 50's. Having previously sailed on Carnival (which is "fun") and Celebrity (which I really liked a lot) I found my fellow travellers on HAL to be delightful - yes mainly retired, but very well travelled. There wasn't anything I didn't like about HAL. There was plenty of space on the dance floor in the disco - fine with us; we don't need a crowd! And we had no trouble finding a deck chair by the pool - try that on some other cruise lines! With tremendouse service, good food and fine entertainment - what's not to like? We met a lot of nice people on our last HAL cruise and I'm looking forward to our next one! What especially impressed me was being able to meet the senior officers while in line at the buffet and and in the coffee bar!

[RevNeal]

Well said, Rita ... well said!
Bravo!

[VABeach]

Thanks for the laugh Jim!!!

I'm 36 and LOVE HAL!! Going again in December and just can't wait! :D

[OceanLiner]

My wife and I are in our mid 40's, and our kids are 8 and 10. We sailed HAL in March of this year for 10 nights on the Volendam. Our kids actually liked it better than Disney Cruise Line.

Not so much rah-rah all the time, more chance to relax, great kids club, much better food, and a great staff.

The fellow passengers were older, but much more interesting. I had lunch with a man who flew the Burma hump during WWII. There were seasoned travelers from all over the world, and NO rotten teenagers or spring break spoiled brats, though I was actually hit by a blue haired biker on a scooter and tossed into a wall.

The funny thing about the older passengers was that they fit into two very distinct categories. One group was up at the crack of dawn and were eating dinner and to bed by 7pm. The other group started to appear on deck around late lunch and they partied until the very early hours of the morning. Dinner with the second group was a riot and don't even think about attempting to keep up with them. This group would make any Carnival spring break crowd blush.

[YankeeCruiser]

I don't think I would term it "older in spirit," but rather "more refined." The average HAL passenger is not the party type ... and that's why you won't find them in the disco much after midnight.

I think every cruise line has it's "typical" passenger, and on HAL that would be someone usually upper-middle class in income level, prefering quiet pursuits like a good book or working on needlepoint. The typical HAL passenger wants good food, and impeccable service. They don't care if there's non-stop activities going on during the day. They are quite content to make their own entertainment ... good conversation, a good book, whatever.

I LIKE this viewpoint! :) This is precisely what I have in mind. DH and I (at the time of the cruise, we will be 29 and 32) will be taking our first HAL cruise in February, on the Noordam. We looked at RCCL, but it just didn't appeal to me. I'm afraid of heights, so you wouldn't get me on the climbing wall anyway. I like to sit out on my own balcony where I have a little privacy, so I'm rarely up at the pool. Unless it's 80's night, I don't go to the disco. And on the islands, I usually head to the botanical gardens, or stay on the ship and nap/read all day. We tend to ignore the many activities - usually they are just not our thing. We enjoy good conversations at dinner, and shipmates who appreciate a fine bottle of wine and know what "formal night" means. We both work very hard, and when we're on vacation, we don't want to have to think/worry/care about anything! I am really looking forward to February - and am doubly glad that I live in D.C., and can take the train to New York, instead of having to fly to Florida. Can't wait to join the HAL faithful!

[hammybee]

There is a popular cruiseline with the slogo of "Get Out There". I am thinking that perhaps HAL's might be " We're Fine, Right Here". And's that OK with me.

[RuthC]

" We're Fine, Right Here".
I like it! I like it! :)

[Himself]

Hey, next Sudnay (8/20/ ) I will be 67 years old. I hope you do not consider me old!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[newmexicoNita]

Hey, next Sudnay (8/20/ ) I will be 67 years old. I hope you do not consider me old!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Of course you aren't old, we are 2 years older than you and keep telling our kids we are middle aged: Well so are they, so now we admit to be creaping up on elderly; please not old............NMNita

[Himself]

You are blessed with insight!

[middle-aged mom]

Hey, next Sudnay (8/20/ ) I will be 67 years old. I hope you do not consider me old!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Many happy returns of the day, Father Himself.:)

[cme]

I am going on my first HAL cruise at the end of Sept. It is only a one night cruise.:( It will be my mom's first time on a ship so thought it would be perfect for her to try. Do they have sailaway parties? I think she would enjoy it if they do.

I have only sailed on RCCL so I am anxious to try out something new. One of the reasons RCCL keeps me coming back is that they have an great loyality program. I don't think any other lines have as good.

We will be on the Zanndam.

Thanks

Carrie

[Liz1973]

I have enjoyed the comments....I am going for the 1st time on HAL and am looking forward to the quality offered by HAL...

OLD...I have seen some threads and these HAL Cruisers seem to be full of life and spunk. I was getting jealous as everyone was talking about the upcoming Sept Translantic Cruise.

[barriesdad]

DW is 48 and I'm 47 - her "toyboy" as she calls me!! We are going on our 1st cruise next month and are not bothered one iota what the age of the other passengers might be. We don't consider ourselves old - even if our kids do!!

We met yesterday with 2 lovely gentlemen - one is 99 (will be 100 next month) and the other 97!! What wonderful people they were, with great conversation and wit. The younger one even flirted with my DW and my daughter of 21!! :eek: ;)

I find it fascinating talking to older people about their experiences.

Age is in the mind only.

Lloyd

[GOTTA-GO]

There is a popular cruiseline with the slogo of "Get Out There". I am thinking that perhaps HAL's might be " We're Fine, Right Here". And's that OK with me.OR instead of "Just Do IT" -- "Already Done IT" (and doing it again and again and again...)

[Gaile]

We just returned from our 1st HAL cruise on the Westerdam in Alaska and perhaps my experience is different than some of the other posters.

I knew that HAL was working to move towards a more family oriented image and knowlingly chose to try HAL. Would never cruise Carnival because we too look for a more upscale experience. There were about 200 kids on board. Most traveling with multi-gen families, like ours. You really didn't see the kids around the ship and I was surprised to find very few participating in the kids club. My daughter is 9, made a few new friends, but the largest activity that we saw was about 15 kids for the last night pj party & pillow fight. For this particular cruise as a whole the passengers did significantly skew heavily to the elderly crowd and hallways were congested with wheelchairs and motorized scooters. Even my parents (very mobile and young at heart 79 & 80) were commenting how different this crowd was compared to past cruises. Again, there was a mix of age groups on the ship, but we heard many (regarless of age)commenting about why it was taking so long to load elevators, difficulty to move through the Lido etc. The crew appeared to do a great job assisting those passengers and their family members who may have needed help to move about the ship, get to the tenders, etc. Our rooms and service were great. We enjoyed our suite amenities. I wouldn't describe the dining room as fine dining. They did a nice job with banquet service, and of course Alaska is always wonderful. We look forward to booking future cruises, but based on this experience will most likely not consider HAL in the near future.

[kakalina]

We just returned from our 1st HAL cruise on the Westerdam in Alaska and perhaps my experience is different than some of the other posters.

I knew that HAL was working to move towards a more family oriented image and knowlingly chose to try HAL. Would never cruise Carnival because we too look for a more upscale experience. There were about 200 kids on board. Most traveling with multi-gen families, like ours. You really didn't see the kids around the ship and I was surprised to find very few participating in the kids club. My daughter is 9, made a few new friends, but the largest activity that we saw was about 15 kids for the last night pj party & pillow fight. For this particular cruise as a whole the passengers did significantly skew heavily to the elderly crowd and hallways were congested with wheelchairs and motorized scooters. Even my parents (very mobile and young at heart 79 & 80) were commenting how different this crowd was compared to past cruises. Again, there was a mix of age groups on the ship, but we heard many (regarless of age)commenting about why it was taking so long to load elevators, difficulty to move through the Lido etc. The crew appeared to do a great job assisting those passengers and their family members who may have needed help to move about the ship, get to the tenders, etc. Our rooms and service were great. We enjoyed our suite amenities. I wouldn't describe the dining room as fine dining. They did a nice job with banquet service, and of course Alaska is always wonderful. We look forward to booking future cruises, but based on this experience will most likely not consider HAL in the near future.

This is probably a good idea on your part, take your kids on a cruise that caters to families. More space for us "oldsters'' ;)

[TenTen]

My husband and I are looking forward to sharing the ship with people of all ages :) He is 31 and I am 29. We are not party animals so hopefully HAL is just for us. I hope I don't get trampled over going to BINGO LOL

[MSfisherman]

From my perspective and one cruise with HAL on the Zaandam in December of 2002,It was nothing but old people,at 50 years old ,I believe I was the youngest paying passenger there.After 8:30 PM it was a ghost ship,no one in the Disco,no one in the bars etc;Choose wisely.

[AlohaPride]

From my perspective and one cruise with HAL on the Zaandam in December of 2002,It was nothing but old people,at 50 years old ,I believe I was the youngest paying passenger there.After 8:30 PM it was a ghost ship,no one in the Disco,no one in the bars etc;Choose wisely.

2002 is almost 4 years ago. It wasn't until recently that HAL began catering to the "family" crowd. I imagine that the demographic has changed quite a bit in the last half decade-ish. That said, I'm only 23 and REALLY looking forward to a quiet and relaxing cruise. Because, party animal I am not. However, I have just read from Grumpy's cruise blog about the Noordam Piano Bar that there is an amazing pianist...so I might just have to go to that particular "disco" :D

[Gaile]

:confused: I'm a bit confused as some of the postings appear to imply that it has to be only a "party", "refined" or "family" type ship. We cruise to relax, see different parts of the world and enjoy a bit of pampering. Wanting to try another cruise line, HAL seemed like a nice balance. We are not party animals, nor are we looking for non-stop shipboard activities that include rock walls and the like. We enjoyed our time on the Westerdam and did have the opportunity to chat with some interesting people of all ages. During our Pinnacle dinner we laughed that we were the table with the 9 year old and we were the best "behaved" table in the room. Folks were having a great time. I simply had wanted to share that on this particular sailing it was more difficult at times to navigate the public areas of the ship due to a high number of elderly passengers with walkers, scooters/chairs, etc. and other passengers (both younger and older) had commented on this during the trip. I saw passengers waiting at elevators for extended times so they could be accomodated with wheelchairs because others with chairs/walkers were already on. For a ship of this size it was very noticeable and at this peak season unexpected. Secondly, of the large number of children, it appeared that few were attracted by the Club HAL and this is an area of opportunity for the line if they want to target adults with children. As HAL continues to evolve their customer base, I'm sure that there will be varied experiences. All travelers develop their own preferences and it's great to have this board as a resource. You add board comments to your research and make the choice that you believe is best for you at the time. Wishing everyone a wonderful time on your future cruises.

[kryos]

There is a popular cruiseline with the slogo of "Get Out There". I am thinking that perhaps HAL's might be " We're Fine, Right Here". And's that OK with me.
LOL ... you would think someone like me would love the "Get Out There" mindset. But I still prefer HAL's "I'm Fine Right Here" mindset while I'm on the ship, and then I'll "Get Out There" with some of my crazy shore excursions ... like skydiving over the North Shore in Oahu or bungee jumping in Costa Rica. Surely, the "Get Out There" cruise line wouldn't have sponsored those excursions any quicker than HAL did. :)

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

From my perspective and one cruise with HAL on the Zaandam in December of 2002,It was nothing but old people,at 50 years old ,I believe I was the youngest paying passenger there.After 8:30 PM it was a ghost ship,no one in the Disco,no one in the bars etc;Choose wisely.
Hit a Vista ship for your next cruise ... preferably a seven to ten-dayer. I think you'll find a more active night life there, and a much lower passenger age demographic.

Like I said in another post on this thread, though ... I did a 30-day cruise on the Amsterdam earlier this year ... one where the average passenger age was somewhere in the mid-70s. While the ship wasn't hopping every night, there were a few nights that had passengers in the lounges until well after midnight. This was a cruise with a lot of sea days (Hawaii/South Pacific), so I think passengers were more inclined to want to "party" well into the evening hours. But, I would imagine on a cruise that is very port-intensive, it wouldn't matter which ship you were on ... nor how long the cruise ... people would want to turn in early so that they could take full advantage of all the activities in port.

Don't think that just because people are older, they are necessarily infirm and feeble. Some of those "seniors" can teach us younger folks a thing or two about good times.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[wizard-of-roz]

We've done most cruise ships and always enjoy watching the "antics" that can go on; both on the dance floors as well as at Karaoke; passenger talent shows; exercise room; and the various sports venues. I even don't mind the battle for the elevators from both young an old.

I'm not quite the geriatric set yet but compared to some stuff that I've seen from the much younger set.....give me a sedate; well mannered and classy group of seniors any day, on any ship!

Or, for that matter anywhere in the world! ;)

[Sea King]

Wasn't 55 the speed limit once?:)

Unless you intend to take the world cruise, or some other lengthy voyage (South America or the Pacific) where the average age is probably 60+, you'll normally find a very broad age range on most HAL itineraries

at 55 (which is now below the speed limit), you won't have any trouble finding people in your "age group" ..

a word of caution though: some of the "older folks" still like the Disco!! they just dance "slower"

enjoy!!;)

[ss cruisers]

First of all, this is my first time posting on these boards, I guess I'm pretty passionate about this topic! My husband and I are in our early 40's, and we have taken 6 cruises on HAL. I have to admit the first cruise was in December, and as we went through embarkation, we were very concerned. Everybody looked to be over 60 years old. Of course we quickly learned as everyone else does how outstanding HAL really is. Yes, we are typically part of the younger crowd, and we are usually the last ones dancing in the Crows Nest. Which means we get to pick our own music! Every cruise we have met several couples similar in age and interests to us, some have become true friends. Last month we went on a Princess Cruise to give it a try...we just booked another HAL cruise for next year! The level of service and the food are superior on HAL. The pools are not as crowded on HAL, and although there are some children and teenagers, it seems to be just the right number. Before HAL I had cruised America Hawaii Cruises, Carnival and Royal Caribbean. Needless to say we will be cruising HAL for life!

[wizard-of-roz]

SS Cruisers: That is so good to hear. We'll be doing Hal in April of next year. It will be our first one with them. We've done RCCL, CCL and Celebrity. I am so glad to hear that you loved Hal and would do it again....I really don't care how old you are....if you have a good sense of self and others around you.....I can relate to you.....

Age is a cerebral thing...it has nothing to do with who your trueself is.....and how you present yourself to others. If everyone would just look at life this way we could truly enjoy each other so much more!

Oy! So philosophical!!!!

[lmt1022]

Just back from a HAL cruise on the Gems of the Baltic. I would say we were one of the few "younger" people on board. (I am 41). There were a few people in their 20's and 30's and a few with young families, but, I would say over 80% were in their 50's and 60's and beyond.

[missygirl]

My husband and I are in our early forty's and we will soon be taking our third HAL cruise. The first two did have a marjority of over age 65 passengers but that fine by me. We go on cruises to enjoy the cruise experience, ports of call and truly can have a great time with all ages.

One gripe was that the first HAL cruise, which was on Zaandam, the cruise staff was more interested with talking and playing with each other than providing entertainment with the passengers that had showed up for a particular activity. This went on all week and I was very dissappointed. I think that this caused a lot of people to retreat to their cabins, out of boordom, which for us made the cruise experience a little uck. What I'm saying is that if they employ fun staff that enjoy their job which is to make the passengers happy that all ages will be present and having a good time.

Our last cruise with HAL was this past May where we went to Alaska on Oosterdam. I cannot truly find fault in any aspect of this trip and I give it an A+. Food, entertainment and the great, great cruise staff made it a trip to remember, so much that I contacted HAL to let them know what a wonderful group of people onboard that they had.

Getting back to the original post "older people" on HAL ships. Even though we are in our forty's, both of our previous HAL trips their have been some younger than us and a lot of passengers older but your trip is what you make of it and most important the staff onboard to assure that you get your moneys worth.

Missygirl

[NancyIL]

My first cruise was on the Zaandam in late Feb. 2004. I was 47 and cruising with my mom who was 79. I was one of the younger ones on board! So YES - for that ship at that time, it fulfilled the stereotype.

[duckman715]

[quote=jhannah]Sure, HAL is for old people.


Pool games include diving for teeth; walker toss; Geritol chugging; and "who's hair is it, anyway?"


Let's not forget my personal favorite - the Hairy Ears Contest

[kelmac]

The bottom line is timing, and length of cruise. If you take a seven day cruise on a Vista class ship, at winter/spring break, you will have a very diverse group, with all ages represented. If you take a 17 day cruise, the first week of October, the average age will be over 60. On a month long cruise, off season, the average age jumps to the point where a few "bright stars" will occur.
That would be a great question: How many people passed away on HAL ships each year?
My wife and I always cruise HAL winter break, spring break or during the summer months. Gives the cruise a bit more energy!
Even Princess, Celebrity, RCL and NCL have an older crowd offseason, and on longer cruises.
All of our HAL cruises have been wonderful!:)

Kel

[wizard-of-roz]

Look out Hal.....I'm a comin......I'm over 50 but I'm a woman who should have been put on Ritalin. I'm extremely high energy and love people of all ages......when my DH is napping, I'm walking the ship!

He has a hard time keeping up with me and so do my children!

Don't you think age is truly just a number? ;)

[dosperegrinos]

Refined. Free from coarseness or vulgarity; polite, genteel. Holland America.

We will be on our sixth cruise in a few weeks, to the Mediterranean on the Noordam. Two years ago we went around S. America on the Amsterdam. That was when I fell in love with cruising. Our other cruises (4) left me wondering what the appeal was with this cruising thing.On the Amsterdam, not only was the ship beautiful beyond description, we also found the personnel to be warm and friendly - actually caring. We were blessed with six other people sharing our table for 8, who were intelligent, well mannered AND interested and interesting. As far as being old and sedate, the southern seas gave us all our sea legs and removed any sedateness in anyone's walking. Tillting a few degrees to starboard gives a new slant on things. The lounges from 4 onward were so busy it was difficult to find seats at times. And none of us were drinking tea. The lectures, and we attended 5 of them, were very informative and enjoyable. We dined at 8:30 - did not go right to bed. Were up early the next morning because we went on most tours. Yes, we never did stay up for the chocolate buffet, did not close down the bars. But then we were not there to over eat or over drink. We were there to discover South America - to learn. We were not alone in this, as many people were doing the same thing. So, yes, I guess if you like to party hardy HAL would not be the cruise line for you. However, if you want to be a voyager, to learn, to discover, to enjoy some finer things. Welcome to the crowd.:)

[wizard-of-roz]

D: Well put.....can't wait to board a Hal ship in April, 2007! ;)

[kryos]

Yes, we never did stay up for the chocolate buffet, did not close down the bars. But then we were not there to over eat or over drink. We were there to discover South America - to learn. We were not alone in this, as many people were doing the same thing. So, yes, I guess if you like to party hardy HAL would not be the cruise line for you. However, if you want to be a voyager, to learn, to discover, to enjoy some finer things. Welcome to the crowd.:)
I always say that if you want to "party hearty" or at the very least keep late night hours, go on a "typical" cruise ... Caribbean with the same ole, same ole ports ... or a cruise with a lot of sea days. Then you will see people up late. But if you go on an "exotic" cruise ... a far off destination, a place you wouldn't ordinarily get to very often ... then you won't see much late night activity the evening before a port stop. Everyone has plans and most of those plans start early. So people want to be in bed at a decent hour so as to have plenty of energy for the day ahead.

That's how it was on my 30-day Hawaii/South Pacific cruise. We had a lot of older folks onboard ... and yes, a couple of "bright stars" too. But that cruise had quite a few sea days, and thus we had a lot of late night stuff going on around the ship. But when we hit Hawaii ... and those six days in the Islands ... the ship became a ghost town after the second show. Most people were spending the better part of their days and into the evening off the ship, so they wanted to be well-rested. Same thing happened when we hit the South Pacific as well. But on those sea days ... watch out ... the Crow's Nest could be jamming until 1:00 a.m. or later.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[lmt1022]

"Refined. Free from coarseness or vulgarity; polite, genteel. Holland America."

Although I very much enjoyed our Baltic Cruise on the Amsterdam, I was a bit surprised by some of the people. Every day, without fail, while waiting patiently in the omlette line at the Lido for breakfast, one or two people would just walk right up and try to place their order ahead of everyone else. We also overheard several passengers speaking very rudely to the staff. I know many people have made comments about how the passengers of HAL differ from Carnival... like the above statement from another poster. However, I have been on several Carnival cruises and I must say, I never saw the rudeness that I saw on HAL.

[doninla]

Just returned from Alaska on the Volendam. I would say most people are over 60, but there were quite a few in their 20's and 30's. We are in our early 60's and do like to party, drink some and gamble some. The problem I saw was that Holland does cater to the older set, especially in the bars. Though the music was good, it was very dated. Frank Sinatra is ok once in a while but not all the time. Even the Crow's Nest was for the older crowd. Do we need to hear 'YMCA' every night? And isn't the Macarana dead? If not, it should be. Throwing in some Springstein or Stones once in a while would help liven it up.

[SanDiego Single]

OK maybe I am little strange but I am under 40 and love HAL. I think I have had some of the most interesting coversations with some of the "old" people on board. I guess I tend to be an old sole maybe but I prefer to be around people who are not hanging over the edge throwing up. Or walking down the halls drunk or who have 5 uncontrollable kids (most kids I have run into on HAL have been very good). HAL is great I travel as a single guy and I just love sitting next to these so called "OLD" people and having a drink and a great time!!!

[I Luv Crusin]

Frankly, I hope people keep thinking that because ni lound mouthed, nasty talking teenagers, no lound mouthed drunk college kids..I like the mix mostly 40 up crowd, when we cruise in fall and not during summer time..there is a cruise line for us all. If you want parties..go carnival..if you want rest, relaxation and nice groups of sane folks..go HAL.

JMHO

on our HAL cruise we saw many of the same type of people often found and complained about on Carnival just not the same amount.

Having said that, HAL was definately a more refined cruise. AND we enjoyed the various chances to practice our ballroom dance.

My DH and I are in our upper-mid 40's and looking forward to our next HAL cruise! (not scheduled)

[arabrab]

HAL is working very hard to attract the under 50 crowd and families;so far it hasn't been a total success but they are getting there slowly. We are among those past 20 something;3 1/2 times past and are now giving the line a shot. I have had clients of all ages cruise HAL and never had one complaint but in every case the remarks have been the same: everyone gets up at 6am and goes to bed about 9pm. Of course this isn't totally true, but certainly the line does attract an older crowd and the longer the cruise the older the crowd.That's ok, every age group needs to find thier fit. NMNita

I think that this is reasonbly consistent with my experience. I suspect if you looked at the bell-curve distribution of passengers by age that Holland America (except in Alaska) would skew older than Princess and definitely older than Carnival. Our summertime New England cruise on the Maasdam had a very small number of kids on board, and a significantly larger contingent over 80. Most of the cruisers were in the 40-65 range, I'd guess, and I didn't get the feeling that the disco was the hot spot, pool games weren't the fashion, but bingo and the art auction seemed to draw similarly to our cruises on RC or Princess.

We had a great time on-board, and found Holland America quite to our liking. But we're also not folks who seek out the disco or trendy bars at home. Folks who want that kind of experience might be happier on a different line.

Chacon a son gout!

[Lynne Myrna]

Hi to all.....my DH & myself just booked a cruise on the Noordam for 12/16/06. We are both in our 60's & have lots of energy. Age is just a number, nothing more. We have cruised on Disney twice, RCCL, & Carnival twice, thought we would give HAL a try. So far, we have liked what we've read, the ship looks outstanding. Alot of people have told us that HAL is just for a bunch of "old people with walkers & wheelchairs" I say...bull......& even if it were, so what!!! We are totally looking forward to this 11 day cruise, it is much needed....happy cruising to all. Lynne

[Toad]

First of all I cruise with my S/O. He and I very much enjoy eachothers company, and choose to be together and cruise together. Although many, many of the passengers are older than we are, they are almost all very nice, interesting and well educated people with whom we enjoy spending time. If for some reason we are not enjoying a particular person or coupke we simply avoid time with them. I could never understand this question which comes up almost weekly since most people cruise with a partner or friends, who really cares about other people's ages????? What difference does this make? I am I simply so in love with S/O I have never noticed how horrid it is to cruise when 90 percent of the pax are older than we are? We love HAL and will remain with them until they ban those of us under SS age.

[Waxer]

Had our first HAL cruise on Zuiderdam last month. Based on what I read (including one sort-of amusing thread about old people clogging up the passageways and doddering over which button to push on the elevator) I had some concerns.

However, there seemed to be a pretty normal age distribution on our cruise, and since we bought the cruise DVD and reviewed it, my perception was borne out by what I saw on screen. We had everything from infants to people in wheelchairs, and no one age group stood out.

This was my parent's first cruise. I was concerned about their stamina (in fact, we drove to their house in Washington and drove them to Vancouver rather than "subject them" to the hassles of flying). Welp...on the 3rd night my wife and I (in our 50s) crashed about 9:30pm :cool:. The next day, I asked my Mom what they did -- "Oh we went to the show, then the casino, then the midnight buffet. We got to bed around 1:30."

They're in their 70's and were up until 1 or 2 am every night of the cruise :) totally left my wife and I in the dust. So indeed, choose wisely ;)

I told them next time, they're picking us up!

[jsesq]

Age is an attitude!

[jsesq]

OK maybe I am little strange but I am under 40 and love HAL. I think I have had some of the most interesting coversations with some of the "old" people on board. I guess I tend to be an old sole maybe but I prefer to be around people who are not hanging over the edge throwing up. Or walking down the halls drunk or who have 5 uncontrollable kids (most kids I have run into on HAL have been very good). HAL is great I travel as a single guy and I just love sitting next to these so called "OLD" people and having a drink and a great time!!!

I'm cruising single and solo soon - how is that? My only other cruise was with a group of 8.

[middle-aged mom]

This was my parent's first cruise. I was concerned about their stamina (in fact, we drove to their house in Washington and drove them to Vancouver rather than "subject them" to the hassles of flying). Welp...on the 3rd night my wife and I (in our 50s) crashed about 9:30pm :cool:. The next day, I asked my Mom what they did -- "Oh we went to the show, then the casino, then the midnight buffet. We got to bed around 1:30."

They're in their 70's and were up until 1 or 2 am every night of the cruise :) totally left my wife and I in the dust. So indeed, choose wisely ;)

I told them next time, they're picking us up!

:D Waxer:

I love your story about your parents. It made me smile! The "seniors" on our Alaska HAL cruise last week were also pretty active! We had a broad age spectrum on board, ranging from infants to ancients and every group inbetween;)

[RuthC]

I'm cruising single and solo soon - how is that? My only other cruise was with a group of 8.
I'm one of those "oldies but goodies":) , a "single equivalent":rolleyes: , and travel solo:) . And I love the travel solo part:D .

Cruising is a great way to travel if you're alone. You meet up with the same people over and over again. At least on HAL you can dine with the same group of people every night---that's a really nice advantage of traditional dining. There are ample opportunites to meet up with folks at the games, in the lounges, sitting in the hot tubs---everywhere! Then you get to be by yourself when you want to.
There will be solo/single travelers' get-togethers scheduled. Check your Daily Program for time/place.

Pack your biggest smile, get out there, and be friendly and you will soon feel quite "at home" and with friends.

[RevNeal]

I want to ditto Ruth.
I've cruised solo on many occasions and have always had the VERY BEST time! I've met many wonderful people and have always had a blast! Of course ... it helps to be an extravert. :D

[wizard-of-roz]

We want to cruise Hal in April, 2007 and it's so good to hear about the age distribution.

We took a Celebrity cruise, last October and so many people warned us that the cruise would be so sedate. We couldn't keep up with most of the people on board! The majority of which were seniors, some in wheel chairs. They were a feisty group! We totally enjoyed them!

I think that most people who chose cruising, chose it because it has such a variable of activities to offer. And, certainly the opportunity to socialize or not.

I know that's why I love it so much!

[newmexicoNita]

And remember: most of us are not old, we are mature or seniors, some more senior than others and some much more mature!!!!! LOL

[cruiselover61]

I do not think Holland America have any more older people than any other line.
I do think that Holland America has always offer good service and hope it is still the same way since the tipping has changed.
We like Celebrity and Holland America the best of the cruiselines.
I think on most cruises there is more older people than younger as we have more time to do things and can usually more afford to go places. We have taken our daugther and our granddaugther with us and they had a great time and have told us they would love to go again if we would pay as they cannot afford to pay themselves.

[mike35]

At least on HAL you can dine with the same group of people every night---that's a really nice advantage of traditional dining.


What's one man's (woman's) pleasure can be another one's poison. On a recent cruise we were seated with two other couples - both flaming right-wing whackos (in the truest sense of the word) - absolutely nothing in common with DW and me. We don't like to "make waves" and request a change, especially on a ship with fewer than 1000 passengers, so we just smiled, ate, belched, and went on our way. We're HUGE fans of Oceania, which only has anytime dining, and we also enjoyed our recent Princess cruise, where we opted for anytime dining and had the opportunity to choose our time to dine and our table mates.

Mike

[RuthC]

Mike, my statement was in the context of a solo/sinle traveler. I notice your post used the pronoun "we"---that's a totally different situation.
You had someone to talk to. The solo/single traveler doesn't board with that advantage. When you are used to dining alone you find great pleasure in having companions with whom to share the details of the day.

[newmexicoNita]

I do not think Holland America have any more older people than any other line.
I do think that Holland America has always offer good service and hope it is still the same way since the tipping has changed.
We like Celebrity and Holland America the best of the cruiselines.
I think on most cruises there is more older people than younger as we have more time to do things and can usually more afford to go places. We have taken our daugther and our granddaugther with us and they had a great time and have told us they would love to go again if we would pay as they cannot afford to pay themselves.
No, statistics do show, HAL has the highest average age of any mass maraketed line. This doesn't mean all are 50 or 60 plus or that there are no families with kids, but the age is a little older. Again, the figure is just a little different, but I beleive it is something like: HAL 58 and Celebrity 53 or something like that. I have my academy book right here but can't find the figure right now. One reason for this could be the length of the cruises. HAL does offer several longer cruises which of course attract older passengers with more time and money.

MNNita

[newmexicoNita]

I do not think Holland America have any more older people than any other line.
I do think that Holland America has always offer good service and hope it is still the same way since the tipping has changed.
We like Celebrity and Holland America the best of the cruiselines.
I think on most cruises there is more older people than younger as we have more time to do things and can usually more afford to go places. We have taken our daugther and our granddaugther with us and they had a great time and have told us they would love to go again if we would pay as they cannot afford to pay themselves.
No, statistics do show, HAL has the highest average age of any mass maraketed line. This doesn't mean all are 50 or 60 plus or that there are no families with kids, but the age is a little older. Again, the figure is just a little different, but I beleive it is something like: HAL 58 and Celebrity 53 or something like that. I have my academy book right here but can't find the figure right now. One reason for this could be the length of the cruises. HAL does offer several longer cruises which of course attract older passengers with more time and money.

MNNita

[newmexicoNita]

What's one man's (woman's) pleasure can be another one's poison. On a recent cruise we were seated with two other couples - both flaming right-wing whackos (in the truest sense of the word) - absolutely nothing in common with DW and me. We don't like to "make waves" and request a change, especially on a ship with fewer than 1000 passengers, so we just smiled, ate, belched, and went on our way. We're HUGE fans of Oceania, which only has anytime dining, and we also enjoyed our recent Princess cruise, where we opted for anytime dining and had the opportunity to choose our time to dine and our table mates.

Mike
And what is wrong with right-wingers? I just couldn't resist that!!! We are a little bit but certainly not whackos!!! Anyway, I do agree with you on this. I think this is what keeps us going back to NCL: freestyle dining. In over 20 cruises, many with friends and family thank goodness, we have yet to have really great table mates. Only once did we have a total disaster, but other times, it just wasn't someone we had anything in common with. They were nice enough, just not what we would have chosen. Spending 7 to 10 nights or more with someone you could hardly converse with and sitting there for over an hour can put a real damper on a cruise. NMNita

[dosperegrinos]

With all the different cruise lines out there and with all the different itineraries available there is no hard or fast estimate of "average". Examples being: Disney - which is geared to young families and shorter cruises in the Caribbean. There are those cruise lines that specialize in Caribbean cruises like RCCL - geared to younger active individuals - with rock climbing etc. There is HAL which does the shorter Caribbean and Alaska cruises, but also does the longer cruises including World Cruises. There is the posh and more formal Cunard Line with it's long cruises. Each of these Lines are specifically designed to accommodate the different needs and wants of specific people - - that is the intrinsic idea. It is a marketing ploy. The Powers That Be know this and make this their selling point. That is why HAL appeals to the "slightly" older crowd, particularly on the longer cruises. And yes, as indicated, the shorter cruises, such as in the Caribbean will appeal to a specific group --- and the longer cruises will appeal to another specific group. Some Cruise Lines are very predicatable as to who will be on board. As on say a Disney cruise. If you are looking for serenity - do not book there. Want to enjoy an extended cruise to exotic POC try HAL or Princess. So to say HAL has an older age group then Disney or RCCL is like comparing apples to oranges to kiwi. They are not meant to be alike - that is the whole point. Even comparing the same cruise line's itineraries would show a different balance. Caribbean cruises because they are shorter would have more younger people onboard, then say a 30 day cruise to the Orient which would have a more mature and well travelled class of passenger. So does HAL have a balance toward have a more seasoned traveler on it's ships? Where are planning to travel? Maybe!:confused: ;)

[kelmac]

What's one man's (woman's) pleasure can be another one's poison. On a recent cruise we were seated with two other couples - both flaming right-wing whackos (in the truest sense of the word) - absolutely nothing in common with DW and me. We don't like to "make waves" and request a change, especially on a ship with fewer than 1000 passengers, so we just smiled, ate, belched, and went on our way. We're HUGE fans of Oceania, which only has anytime dining, and we also enjoyed our recent Princess cruise, where we opted for anytime dining and had the opportunity to choose our time to dine and our table mates.

Mike

I don't like right-wing whackos, like Timothy McVeigh, nor do I like left-wing whackos, like Lee Harey Oswald. Where is the whacko cut off point?:)
Never met any whackos on my cruises!

Enjoy!
Kel

[RevNeal]

On cruises I tend to try to avoid political and religious controversies. Of course, my profession makes me prone to be asked my opinions in both fields. Of course, this isn't a hard-and-fast rule. IF it's something that isn't going to cause a major fight, I'll respond. And, in the past, I've had wonderful, long, involved conversations on several political or theological topics. This being said, it's usually safer to avoid such discussions ... even if it means saying something like "I'd rather not talk shop at the dinner table."

[wizard-of-roz]

Revneal: You are a true gentleman and I would love to be at your dinner table! :)

[billrco90278]

I am the guilty party who started this thread. I am shocked that it has gone on so long. I originally started it because I have been steered from HAL because "the cruises are for old people" and I wanted to hear from somebody with experience. My take on the many entries on this thread is that the average age for HAL cruisers is somewhat higher and the ships are a little to a lot less trendy. However, it seems that in this generality there are many exceptions and most people have enjoyed themselves on HAL whatever their age. Meanwhile, this old guy of 55 will continue to ponder. I am sure I would have a great time no matter the cruise line. Now if Princess and HAL offerred identical itineraries.........?

[duckman715]

Can you people please SPEAK UP !! I don't hear so well anymore

[newmexicoNita]

I am the guilty party who started this thread. I am shocked that it has gone on so long. I originally started it because I have been steered from HAL because "the cruises are for old people" and I wanted to hear from somebody with experience. My take on the many entries on this thread is that the average age for HAL cruisers is somewhat higher and the ships are a little to a lot less trendy. However, it seems that in this generality there are many exceptions and most people have enjoyed themselves on HAL whatever their age. Meanwhile, this old guy of 55 will continue to ponder. I am sure I would have a great time no matter the cruise line. Now if Princess and HAL offerred identical itineraries.........?Don't feel guilty, I think it has been a very challenging thread, from how old, to what is old, and to politics and back again. LOL

[dosperegrinos]

No problem Bill. Take one this year and one next year.;) ;)

[ehough]

I'm 22, was aboard the Westerdam to Alaska in May.

I have to say people my age were in the minority (although it should probably also be taken into account that it was an Alaskan cruise, which I've heard tends to draw an older crowd). I guess the simplest answer would be that while there was probably a majority of "older people" on the cruise, there was a good mixture. DH and I never felt out of place. So while it seemed, demographically, that perhaps the majority of cruisers were over 50, the activities and overall atmosphere did not have an "old people" feel to it :)

I'd say HAL is for the young of heart, regardless of actual age- meaning that no matter how old your fellow cruisers are, the activities and what not are for people of all ages.

[SmileHMB]

I have been on HAL and my first thoughts were there are so many wheelchairs and these people don't look well enough to board, in fact 2 people died. Was the ship beautiful, was the service great and the crew awesome yes to all. I can say my son hated it. Only about 20 teenagers from boarding schools. My tablemates were like my new family! We went to port together and everything. An English couple, Russian couple, single lady from NY and me and my son. What a site on St Johns. We had a blast. I must say my friend and I were some of the very few at the dance club each night, but it was like having private bartenders. We exchanged e-mails and still chat. The crew was in the average age of mid twenties and we loved them. Had professional pictures with them and all! Never to be forgotten. Piano bar was hopping everynight. I must say I had to make my own party sometimes, but I can handle that. It wasn't Carnival when it comes to parties, but the food and service surpassed Carnival by far. I was not sure if I would sail them again, but I find myself booked for a cruise out of San Diego. They promise me that on the west coast it is a much younger group, so I will see. Either way I am touring San Diego for a few days prior to the cruise and I have heard nothing but positive comments on the area. Hope it helps.

[HoneyGV]

Holland America has a reputation of being for old people. Is this a stereotype or does it contain some or a lot of truth? At 55, I am not spring chicken myself, but do want to be with a lot of active people of all ages.

I'm 57 and I still have a spring in my step...and there seem to be a LOT of us in that "agery" (new word) there!:)

[HoneyGV]

Hmmm, I'm 36 does that make me old?? ;)

Only to a 12 year old or younger:D

[HoneyGV]

Sure, HAL is for old people.

Oxygen bars are not just trendy offerings onboard, but necessities for daily survival.

Pool games include diving for teeth; walker toss; Geritol chugging; and "who's hair is it, anyway?"

Metamucil is a favorite drink in the Explorer's Lounge.

The ship is perfumed by the wonderful aroma of Ben-Gay.

So if you don't fit the stereotype, you'll probably be happier sailing with another line.

My bad! :D

I'll never forget the day I won a "DAM SHIP" t-shirt when I came in first in the "walker toss" competition. I had to shove some 86 year old guy into deep end, but I won...DAM it! Ahhhh, those were the days.:p

[hammybee]

Meanwhile, this old guy of 55 will continue to ponder. I am sure I would have a great time no matter the cruise line. Now if Princess and HAL offerred identical itineraries.........?

Fess up. You have probably turned 56, given how long this post has gone on.

[love2vacation]

Well, if everyone who sails on HAL has the same sense of humor as this pos has taken- it would be a great cruise line to sail. ;) There is nothing worse than vacationing with a bunch of grumpy people!

[love2vacation]

Well, if everyone who sails on HAL has the same sense of humor as this post has taken- it would be a great cruise line to sail. ;) There is nothing worse than vacationing with a bunch of grumpy people!

[Jhawktx]

I think the average age is higher. I bet the prune consumption per passenger is higher, but can't prove it.:)