A seasoned traveller with an impressive 80 cruises under her belt has named the stunning destination that left her utterly breathless. Ann Leadley, a 79-year-old from Whitby, has dedicated the past two decades to exploring the world by sea, swapping long-haul flights for the ease and luxury of life on board.
From Global Jetsetter to Cruise Connoisseur
In her younger years, Ann and her late husband, Jim, were avid flyers, happily journeying to far-flung corners of the globe. However, as time passed, they sought a more relaxed way to travel. They turned to cruising, which eliminated the stress of airports and constant packing, offering a unique perspective on the world. Ann fondly recalls the magic of waking up to a new port each day, watching shorelines emerge on the horizon from the ship's deck.
After Jim passed away, Ann initially travelled with friends before making a bold decision. To celebrate her 80th birthday, she has planned another solo cruise, embracing the independence it brings. "Travelling solo gave me a sense of freedom I hadn't felt in years," she revealed. She enjoys setting her own pace, whether joining an excursion or simply watching the sea, and has found the cruise community to be incredibly friendly.
Hawaii Tops the List for Sheer Beauty and Warmth
Out of all the destinations she has visited, one stands out above the rest. Ann declares Hawaii as her absolute favourite. She told American Holidays that the sheer beauty of the islands took her breath away, praising the welcoming locals and the exceptional food. She also holds a special place in her heart for the Caribbean, where she first travelled solo and felt completely at ease, surrounded by sunshine, music, and sea.
The Rising Tide of Solo and Senior Cruise Travel
Ann is part of a significant trend. Industry experts note a growing number of older travellers seeking both comfort and adventure through cruising. Bladhana Richardson, head of marketing at American Holidays, highlighted the rise of 'cruisepacking' – having everything in one place while waking up somewhere new daily. "One of the big shifts we've seen is the rise in solo cruise travel, especially among older customers," she said, noting they desire independence without sacrificing social connection.
This shift underscores a broader movement where those in later life are confidently choosing to explore the world on their own terms, finding joy, freedom, and new friendships on the open sea.
