8 things I learned when I sailed solo on my first cruise, from how to meet people to having to pay a 'single supplement'

Joey HaddenMay 17, 2022, 22:32 IST

The author went on her first cruise solo onboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas.Joey Hadden/Insider

I took my first cruise solo on the largest cruise ship ever, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas.
I learned a few key things about solo cruising, such as that it costs extra to travel by yourself.

I traveled by myself onboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world. I learned a few things along the way that I think everyone should know before cruising solo.

The author on the largest cruise ship in the world.Joey Hadden/Insider

I traveled by myself onboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world. I learned a few things along the way that I think everyone should know before cruising solo.

I didn't know beforehand that cruise ship cabins typically cost more when you're traveling alone.

The author in her stateroom.Joey Hadden/Insider

I was seated alone for dinner, but solo cruisers do have the option to sit with other groups for meals.

The author dines alone on the ship.Joey Hadden/Insider

It was easier to meet people on the ship than I thought it would be as a solo traveler.

Cruisers hang out at a bar on the ship.Joey Hadden/Insider

Cruise ships often have a daily schedule packed with activities like fitness classes, karaoke parties, and meet-ups for singles. Take advantage of them.

People participate in a mini-golf tournament on the ship.Joey Hadden/Insider

While activities on the ship were great for meeting people, I thought joining excursions booked through the cruise line was the best way to socialize with other guests.

The author enjoys an excursion in Roatan, Honduras.Joey Hadden/Insider

Every cruise has a Facebook group so guests can ask each other questions and stay in touch before and after the trip.

The Facebook group for the cruise the author went on.Joey Hadden/Insider

But you don't have to socialize if you don't want to.

The author finds secluded spaces to relax.Joey Hadden/Insider

Either way, it's worth downloading some podcasts or audiobooks to keep you company.

The author listens to podcasts during the cruise.Joey Hadden/Insider

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8 things I learned when I sailed solo on my first cruise, from how to meet people to having to pay a 'single supplement'

I traveled by myself onboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world. I learned a few things along the way that I think everyone should know before cruising solo.

I didn't know beforehand that cruise ship cabins typically cost more when you're traveling alone.

I was seated alone for dinner, but solo cruisers do have the option to sit with other groups for meals.

It was easier to meet people on the ship than I thought it would be as a solo traveler.

Cruise ships often have a daily schedule packed with activities like fitness classes, karaoke parties, and meet-ups for singles. Take advantage of them.

While activities on the ship were great for meeting people, I thought joining excursions booked through the cruise line was the best way to socialize with other guests.

Every cruise has a Facebook group so guests can ask each other questions and stay in touch before and after the trip.

But you don't have to socialize if you don't want to.

Either way, it's worth downloading some podcasts or audiobooks to keep you company.