I've sailed alone on 8 cruise ships. Here are my top 5 tips for taking a solo cruise.
Brittany Chang
- I've traveled solo on eight cruise ships during my time as a travel reporter with Business Insider.
- Taking a cruise alone can be 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 solo. You should own this sense of independence: Going alone means you won't have to compromise your itinerary.
But if you're unsure how to approach a solo cruise trip, you've come to the right place. As a well-practiced solo traveler, these are my top five tips for people interested in doing just that.
The majority of my cruises have been inaugural sailings or trips exclusive to media and booking agents.
I've sailed on eight ships across seven cruise lines, from budget to ultra-luxury options.
All but one — Carnival Firenze — was paid for or discounted by the cruise line.
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 ocean views.
And I've left feeling socially fulfilled despite going alone on all trips.
1. It should go without saying — embrace being alone. Don't be afraid to chat with new people.
If you tend to feel anxious or insecure eating alone at a restaurant, you might feel that same 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 is 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.
On port days, the lounges, buffets, pools, and popular onboard amenities are nearly empty. So, if you want to chill by a quiet pool with a book and no screaming children in sight, consider spending your port day on the vessel or heading back early.
3. Book your onboard dining as early as possible.
This tip applies to cruisers traveling in groups, too. 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 when I boarded the ship.
The more proactive you are, the more likely you are to catch the shows you want to see.
4. Make sure the cruise line fits you.
Make the most of your trip by booking a cruise line compatible with your interests. Do your research: Cruise lines target different demographics.
If you're looking for a quiet, peaceful, children-free retreat, for example, consider avoiding a Disney cruise.
Instead, opt for the adults-only Virgin Voyages or Celebrity Cruises.
Or, pay up for more high-end companies like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea.
5. Check for single-supplement fees.
Some companies 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 whether the cruise line has cabins for solo travelers. Companies like Celebrity and Oceania offer this.
Yes, they can be small. But you could save a significant lump of cash by opting for 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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