I've sailed alone on 4 different cruise lines. Here are my top 5 tips for taking a solo cruise.
Brittany Chang
- I've traveled solo on four new cruise ships during my time as a travel reporter with Insider.
- Taking a cruise alone can be both freeing and convenient — if you know how to do it right.
Traveling alone on a cruise ship can be liberating, convenient, and cheap — so long as you know how to do it right.
If you're reading this, you're likely already interested in traveling by yourself. You should own this sense of independence: Going alone means you won't have to compromise your itinerary.
But if you're unsure of how to approach a solo cruise trip, you've come to the right place. As a pretty well-practiced solo traveler, these are my top five tips for people interested in doing just that.
To preface this, all of my cruises have either been inaugural sailings or trips exclusive to media and booking agents.
As a result, my trips have either been paid for or discounted by the cruise lines.
Because these are work trips, my schedule is often packed from morning to night.
But I always try to find time for myself. After all, there's nothing better than some alone time with unfettered views of the ocean.
And on some trips, I've left feeling socially fulfilled despite going alone. Here's how ...
1. It should go without saying — embrace being alone. Don't be afraid to chat with new people.
If you feel anxious or insecure eating alone at a restaurant, odds are you might feel that way for the first few days of the cruise.
But if there's anything my years of traveling alone have taught me, it's that nobody's actually judging you.
It could be daunting at first. But past this anxiety, cruising alone provides a great opportunity to make new friends. If you're there to mingle, head to the bars, pools, or even mini golf courses.
2. If you prefer some quiet time, stay on the ship during port days.
Port days and the opportunity to explore new destinations are exciting.
But if your priority is having the ship's amenities to yourself, it's also one of the best days to stay put.
Because almost everyone leaves the ship during port days, you should have no problem securing a highly coveted pool chair.
The lounges, buffets, pools, and popular onboard amenities will be nearly empty during these days. So if you want to lounge by a quiet pool with a book and no screaming children in sight, consider spending your port day on the vessel (or at least heading back early).
3. Book your onboard dining as early as possible.
This tip applies to cruisers traveling in groups as well. If you cruise to eat, prioritize booking the specialty restaurants you care about. The sooner you do, the more likely you are to secure your top restaurants and dining times.
This tip applies to shows as well.
During my two-night media sailing on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, the nighttime comedy shows were almost completely booked by the time I boarded the ship.
The more proactive you are, the more likely you'll catch the shows you want to see.
4. Make sure the cruise line fits you.
To make the most of your trip, book a cruise line that's compatible with your interests. Do your research: Different cruise lines target different demographics.
For example, if you're looking for a quiet, peaceful children-free retreat, consider avoiding a Disney cruise.
Instead, opt for the adults-only Virgin Voyages or the Gen X-approved Celebrity Cruises.
5. Check for single supplement fees.
Some companies will charge an additional "single supplement" for solo travelers booking a stateroom designed for more than one guest.
On cruise lines like Silversea, the supplement starts at an additional 25% on top of the base fare. On Royal Caribbean, it could be double the cost of your trip.
Look for solo cabins instead.
Instead of paying this hefty add-on, see if the cruise line has cabins designed for solo travelers. Companies like Celebrity and Oceania offer this.
Yes, they can be small. But you could be end up saving a significant lump of cash by opting for these solo cabins.
But no matter the room, dining, or itinerary you decide to pick, just remember to relax and enjoy your solo time.
Bring a book, grab a drink, and head to an observation lounge. Enjoy the comforts of alone time. It'll certainly be more entertaining on a cruise ship than sitting alone at home.
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