I can understand where you're coming from. What we've found from cruising is the variety of ships that cater to different people and age groups. The most relaxing cruise I've had was with Holland. The passengers were older and there weren't a bunch of little kids ot teenagers running around like there is with Carnival or Royal. Went to Aruba on Holland and the trip coming home was the best experience and relaxing I ever had. I was stress free the entire trip. The worst trip was stopping in 5 ports in 7 days. I'm not young anymore and I found it too stressful geting off and back on the ship within the allotted time frame we had in each port. I came home more stressed out than when I left. Have a cruise scheduled in Janurary to take a 14 day cruise to Hawaii on Princess. I'm hoping it turns out as well as the Holland. You should really give Holland a try before giving up on cruising.