4 day cruises from Los Angeles

[jb46]

I'm looking at October cruises for my parents and two of their friends, all in their 70's. None of them have ever gone on a cruise. They are considering RCI for the 4 day trip down to Ensenada, Catalina & San Diego just to see what a cruise is like and whether they might want to try a longer one the next time. After reading some of the reviews, I'm wondering if the 4 day cruise might make them decide not to cruise again. I feel that a longer cruise and different destination (they are not really beach people) would be more fun for them, but my mother is recently recovered from an illness and is eager to get away for a few days. Also, we're wondering if there is a way to get around the "formal" nights, or how casual can you dress on formal nights without looking silly? Thanks!

[dalech]

You could try a 7 day cruise up to Alaska in the summer. It is very beautiful up there. Also, there are some really nice ships that sail out of Seattle and Vancouver.

[Kuki]

For people in their 70s I would highly recommend convincing them a 7 day cruise is more appropriate.

The short cruises really are more of a party atmosphere.. with people treating them as more of a weekend getaway than a cruise.

As for dress on formal nights.... if they chose the 4 day, the men can likely get away with a sports jacket and slacks for formal nights. If even that is too much, they can use the buffet.

[jb46]

Thanks for the replies. I'm seeing pretty good deals on the 7 day cruises to the Mexican Riviera (Princess and Royal Carib.). Alaska would be great, but I think it's probably too late in the season now and they don't want to wait.

[dalech]

I will be on the Pride next week on a 7 day cruise to the Mexican Riviera. I will let you kno how it is. You might check out RCCL, Princess, or Holland America though as well.