Cruise ships are often grand and luxurious on board, boasting a selection of bars, restaurants and entertainment options.
Finding the right ship for your needs is important, but it is also worth checking out the stops scheduled for the package you book.
While it may sound obvious, really look at the scheduled stops on the cruise you book, if you plan to get off, an expert explained. One thing to consider is how far the port is from the city advertised.
The port is often a drive or train journey away from the destination. While this is often ok, it could cause problems for those who want more time to explore or who have any accessibility needs, said CEO of Casago, Steve Schwab.
Not all stops are accessible, so consider this before booking
| GETTYHe told GB News: "Look for cruises that stop at destinations that really interest you or that you feel like you can handle best. For example, if you are over the age of 50 and have bad knees, you may not enjoy destinations that are super hilly or require a lot of walking around."
Cruises can also be expensive, so you don't want to fork out for a holiday only to find out you have no interest in the places where it stops. The travel expert said researching destinations is one of the most important things to do before booking the right holiday for you.
He continued: "Make sure you are paying attention to where the cruise stops - not just the cruise itself. To make the most out of a cruise, you want to be able to enjoy the different countries and locations where you can get off the boat and explore."
Popular cruise routes include the Caribbean and the Bahamas, the Mediterranean, and Alaska. Holidaymakers should consider carefully what type of holiday they want before making a selection.
Indeed, cruise specialist and co-founder of DPP Travel, Mandy Pullin, suggested listing what is important for you, including the stops on offer, before committing.
She told GB News: "Cruising can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel, especially for those over 50 who are looking to explore multiple destinations in comfort and style.
"But let’s be honest: not every cruise is created equal. The key to loving your cruise experience is starting with the right match. And that begins with the type of cruise you choose.
CRUISE NEWS
Doing your research before booking will ensure you have the best trip
| GETTY"From intimate river cruises through Europe to expedition ships in Antarctica or luxurious ocean liners with every onboard amenity imaginable - there’s a cruise style for nearly every traveller.
"Choosing the right cruise type is the first (and most important) decision that will shape the entire experience."
For more advice on finding the right fit, a cruise expert shared little-known booking tips for over-50s that "make choosing the perfect cruise easier".