Why Cruises Are Perfect For Solo Travellers
If youre new to solo travel, the prospect of taking a trip by yourself might be a little intimidating. What if you get lost? What if something happens to you while youre exploring a new country? And what if it just feels lonely?
Likewise, if youre a veteran of travelling alone, then you no doubt already know what some of the pitfalls are, from the sad, quizzical looks of others as you dine solo in restaurants, to the very real concerns of personal safety on a solo voyage.
For all those reasons and more, cruise travel is an eternally popular way for solo vacationers to holiday. Whether you choose a cruise line or itinerary that caters specifically to single travellers or opt to sail solo on a standard cruise, there are no shortage of options.
Lets have a look at some of the very good reasons to take a solo cruise, the different kinds of cruises available, and the best cruises for solo travellers.
Option Two: Music Themed Cruises
If the idea of topless women and sexy podium dancers everywhere all sounds a bit too much, then there are some other themed cruises that might be better suited to you.
Theres a whole host of music-themed cruises to choose from in 2022 and beyond, covering every genre you can think of including rock, pop, reggae and heavy metal. These cruises are like floating festivals, one key difference being that everyones had a shower
On a music-themed cruise, youll be able to dance the night away to songs from your favourite artists, whether that be KISS or Kesha. And while youre doing that, youre sure to bump into other single people with the same musical tastes.
Best Overall Cruise For Solo Travelers
Norwegian Breakaway
Norwegian Cruise Line is consistently recognized as the leader in singles cruises, thanks to studio cabins sized and priced perfectly for one and a lounge area for single travelers to meet and mingle. For a memorable solo cruise, check out the port-heavy Caribbean itinerary on Norwegian Breakaway. Youll get plenty of shore time in Cozumel, Roatán, Harvest Caye, and Costa Maya, with extra fun available before and after the cruise in the departure port of New Orleans. If youre not comfortable taking a cruise with COVID-19 still in play, save this idea as an ideal solo cruise to take after the pandemic.
What to expect:
- Single pricing for studio cabins
- Singles activities like bar crawls, meetups, ropes courses, and climbing walls
- Free open bar and Wi-Fi
- First-class entertainment on board with the Broadway musical Six, a 21st-century girl-power remix of five hundred years of historical Henry VIII heartbreak
- Weekly sailings from November through the winter months for a solo escape from the cold
- Departure from New Orleans, the ultimate port city for singles
Recommended Reading: How Much Does An Average Cruise Cost
Get To Know The Crew During Your Solo Cruise
We pride ourselves on having a friendly, engaging crew from all around the world. Many of our cruise passengers enjoy talking with them and learning about the area of the globe theyre from.
Finding a bartender you get along with so you can have your own local bar on the ship is an easy way to feel comfortable in a lounge while cruising solo.
Get to know your cruise director, who youll often see walking around the ship. If they know youre a solo cruise passenger, they may give you some insider tips on upcoming activities or entertainment you wont want to miss.
Is It More Expensive To Go On A Cruise By Yourself
Solo cruises arent always more expensive. Single-passenger cabins are almost always smaller than those designed for two, so theyre usually less expensive. But cruise ships with no or few single cabins often charge a supplement to solo travellers, so be sure to look for cruises with no single supplements.
And if you really want to save money and are comfortable sharing a room with strangers, some cruise lines will match you with a roommate. The free My Cabin Mate app matches single cruisers with like-minded roommates and helps them avoid single supplement fares.
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Hosted Cruises For Singles
Another option that is highly recommended is the hosted singles cruises . Lots of organizations sponsor voyages for single travelers and these group operators also help to find people to share with. They also pair compatible personalities. Companies like Singlesatsea, Singles cruise and Singlestravelintl , organize single travelers in groups, often by theme or demographic . The better companies provide a questionnaire which asks about your habits.
Best Cruises & Cruise Lines For Solo Travelers
Cruising is the perfect vacation for solo travelers who want their own independence but also want the flexibility to join activities or dine with other travelers. Luckily, many cruise lines are very welcoming to singles and even have special programs and accommodations to make solo travelers feel right at home. Here are some of the best cruise lines for singles.
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What About Solo Cruises For Seniors
Senior citizen cruises provide a worry-free vacation featuring world-class accommodations and a vacation experience tailored to their interests. Our cruises have onboard activities to suit everyone, from thrilling entertainment and live music to speakers series and guided meditations.
On solo cruises for seniors, accessible staterooms and excursions for all types of mobility levels ensure our guests see as much of the world as they desire.
Read: Cruises for Seniors With Disabilities
Tips For Single Travelers:
Connect with other singles who are traveling near you on the Couchsurfing app, and always offer to host travelers from out of town.
You can also make friends in your destination city by attending meetups for solo travelers!
Remember that solo travel is not about being alone all the time take advantage of opportunities like group tours, including single travelers just like yourself!
The shared experience of traveling together may make lasting friendships.
Grab a special single travelers travel insurance plan to cover you in case of injury, illness or even lost luggage.
You can also take out an international health insurance policy before traveling for peace of mind on your journey abroad.
Many travel agents offer discounts to those who book their fares independently.
Also Check: What Is The Best Time To Cruise Alaska
Tips For Cruising Single
1. Do not hesitate to go to guest services or to the maître d in the main dining room and request to be put at a large table with other single cruisers.
2. Check your activities schedule for when the single and solo meetups are. These events are typically self-led and take place at least once per day.
3. Step out of your comfort zone on day one. Singles and solo cruisers will typically look to make connections on the first day in order to set the tone for the rest of the journey. Grab a drink and jump right into the mix so you arent trying to wiggle your way into already established social circles later on in the cruise.
4. Be a heavy presence in social media groups. Nowadays almost every sailing has a dedicated roll call on Cruise Critic and Shipmate cruise app, or a Facebook group. This is an invaluable way to lay the groundwork and establish connections well before you even set sail. More often than not, you will connect with other singles, thus enabling you to hit the ground running.
5. A little liquid courage is okay, but dont overdo it or other single cruisers will be bonding over the kick they are all getting out of the overtly inebriated sailor.
Best River Cruise: American Cruise Lines
Courtesy of American Cruise Lines
- Ship Name: American Constitution
- Itinerary: Troy/Albany, Kingston, Hyde Park, Catskill, West Point, Sleepy Hollow, New York, New York
If youd like to cruise in your own backyard, American Cruise Lines is a small-ship company that explores waterways in the U.S. like the Mississippi, Columbia and Snake Rivers, the East Coasts Intracoastal Waterway, and more. Single cabins are found on every one of the companys vessels and are some of the largest in the industry, including the American Constitution a 175-passenger ship with both interior balcony staterooms ranging from 226 to 238 square feet. The open-seating dining program and included cocktail hours make it easy for solo travelers to get to know fellow passengers. In addition, the Hudson River fall foliage voyage sails round trip from New York City.
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Best Cruises For Singles Over 40
Cruises offer single travelers in their 40s and 50s a comfortable launch pad for their global adventures. They can be great vehicles for meeting people and exploring in a group, while providing a safe base that’s less isolated than other forms of travel.
Single travelers over 40 are often looking for ways to meaningfully connect with other travelers on a cruise, without the “meat market” or party cruise atmosphere. They also might be seeking trips that they can arrange around their work vacation schedule and itineraries that offer a good value.
The solution? Consider a cruise that meets the needs of singles over 40, whether it’s a small river cruise company, a major line that sails the globe or a theme cruise specifically devoted to singles. Many offer adventures with learning components, laid-back bars ideal for chatting over a cocktail, group social activities and discounts for solo cruisers, making them a great choice for the traveler without a plus-one.
If a cruise is your preferred getaway, here are the best cruises for singles over 40.
Best Spa Experience: Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
- Ship Name: Norwegian Escape
- Itinerary: Kings Wharf, Bermuda New York, NY
While solo traveler staterooms were a bit more common on smaller expedition ships, NCL made waves in the industry when it introduced trendy solo staterooms on the Norwegian Epic. Now, several of the NCL ships have these coveted rooms, including the Norwegian Escape. When booking a solo stateroom, passengers also get keycard access to the Studio Lounge shared only by other Studio guests. Escape also features a fabulous spa complete with a snow room and a salt room for unwinding, as well as the Waterfront, a quarter-mile oceanfront promenade lined with signature dining venues. On the Bermuda voyage, guests will spend three full days in port before returning to New York.
Recommended Reading: Norwegian Breakaway Drink Packages
Why Join A Cruise Circle For Solos Group
Designed with the independent solo traveller like you in mind. So when you book, youll get stuff that actually matters to you, like being able to:
- Dine the way you want, every night. Every single night, theres a table set just for our group. Feeling social? Enjoy a meal with the group. Want some time to yourself? Dine solo tonight – freedom to choose how you want to dine.
- Travel with friends, not strangers. Before every cruise, well give you the chance to get in touch with the others cruising with you, before you even set foot on the ship.
- Enjoy pre-arranged drink meeting times. There’s pre-arranged meeting times and venues on board – no more solo drinks .
- Save money by sharing a room. If you don’t mind sharing, well match you with a same-sex group member, and youll both save. Its completely up to you – of course, if you want your own room, that’s your choice also. There’s both options with our groups.
- We take the risk, so you dont have to. If you tried to find a cruise partner on your own, and they cancelled on you, youd could be left with hefty cancellation fees or paying for their cost. But with Cruise Circle for Solos, we offer financial protection on your booking so you don’t lose out if your cabin mate cancels.
The Best Destinations For Singles Cruises
One of the most tempting aspect of sailing on a cruise is the ability to visit numerous places while remaining still onboard a cruise ship.
Just step out of your cabin balcony.
The idea of waking up in a new lovation every morning inspires adventurous spirit and offers an excellent opportunity for sightseeing with minimal effort.
Ofcorces there are ports that will give you a better experience than others. There are those that you will love and appreciate.
Those that you will hate with passion and there are those you would wish you to stay there forever.
Some Of The Best Destinations For Single Cruises Include :
Alaska: For Nature Lovers
Visiting Alaska is a beautiful way to experience the natural beauty of this state. Youll enjoy viewing these beautiful sights along with wildlife, glaciers and more.
The Caribbean Islands: The Tranquillity Of The World
There are many islands to choose from, so youll be sure to find the perfect one that suits your interests. Spend time on the beach or any warm-water ports exploring all there is to do in this area.
The Bahamas: Fantastic Nightlife
Singles cruises are highly popular here, its is a fantastic destination for relaxing as it offers exciting adventures like snorkeling or scuba diving right off your sailboat! And not to forget the vibrant night life.
Costa Rica: Exotic Nature
Also Check: What Cruises Go Out Of New Orleans
Ask Miss Bee: Sex And Solo Cruises
Miss Bee is HERAs resident sex columnist. Do you have a question about love, sex or dating abroad? Ask her anonymously here!
Dear Miss Bee,
I recently went through a breakup and to celebrate the newly single life I booked a solo cruise for the new year! Ideally Id like to have any pointers for a solo cruising, but also how do I find someone to hook up with? Any pointers on sex cruises for singles?
-Captain Shipwrecked
Dear Captain Shipwrecked,
Congratulations on your breakup! When breakups happen it is usually for the best. So although it may seem rough right now, know it was ultimately for the best. But that doesnt mean that it doesnt hurt so great decision to go on a trip! I find reaching a new destination to be therapeutic and amazing overall and one of my personal favorite solo travel things to do is cruise!
21st Birthday Sex Cruises for Singles
I went on my first solo cruise two weeks after my 21st birthday, I was single, going through a work crisis, but ready for adventure. Not only did my first solo cruise include buckets of alcohol to celebrate my 21st birthday, it also included making friends, and some cruise bucket list items I made for myself.
So lets dive right in to the exciting life of cruising solo, and sex cruises for singles!
Establish Boundaries
Know Your Limits
What are you looking for?
Solo Travel
Alcohol, Sex, and Solo Cruises
The Right Items to Pack
Take the leap
Special Programs for Solo Riders
TLDR?
What Are The Best Cruises For Solo Travelers
The best cruises for solo travelers depend on the experiences you most want out of a vacation.
Are you a thrill-seeker looking to cross items off your bucket list? Want to see the capital cities of Europe without hotel-hopping and planning all your own accommodations and train travel? Are you more interested in hiking or history?
Weve crafted different itineraries for travelers of all kinds, from introverts who prefer fewer social activities to extroverts who thrive on meeting new people.
Craving time in the sun against the backdrop of white sand beaches and crystalline waters? Consider a 7- or 10-night Caribbean cruise, where snorkeling and diving shore excursions are bound to introduce you to people with similar interests and a sense of adventure.
Some of the best cruise destinations for history buffs are located in the Mediterranean, where you can tour thousand-year-old churches in Italy or see the ancient ruins of Greece up close.
There is no shortage of options for cruisers who are traveling solo.
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Tours And Cruises For Single Seniors
Traveling alone can be quite difficult, especially if you’re a senior citizen, but fortunately, there are a number of single-friendly cruises and tours for people 60 and over.
Normally when you book a tour or cruise, you pay a per-person, double occupancy price if youre traveling alone, you are charged a higher price, normally called a single supplement. The single supplement is usually quite highup to 50 percent of the trip costbecause it is designed to recoup the income that would have been generated by a second traveler.
Fortunately, some tour operators recognize that many seniors are solo travelers and now offer “single-friendly” trips. Single-friendly tour groups and cruise lines offer no-cost or low-cost single supplements or provide guaranteed share options. By participating in a guaranteed share program, you agree to be matched with a roommate, nearly always of the same sex and smoking preference. In return, your single supplement is waived. Should your tour operator or cruise line be unable to match you with a roommate, youll still pay either a reduced single supplement or none at all.
Best Cruise Line For Solo Travellers 6 Years In A Row
Whether you’re taking some me time on a cruise, just happen to be the odd number person in a group, or think it’s best you and your buddy get your own rooms, Norwegian Cruise Line gives you plenty of options to plan your singles cruise vacation.
During each of Norwegian’s sailings there are plenty of opportunities to meet fellow passengers. Most sailings have singles meet-ups for those cruising alone. Some of our onboard cruise staff host bar crawls around the ship, or even get your pride on at the Friends of Dorthy happy hour happening every night.
Read Also: Cruise Ships With Solo Cabins
Single River Cruise Prices
The river cruises on this page all show the prices for one person. These prices are inclusive of any single supplements which may have been applied. River cruises with single cabins are rare, but it is sometimes possible to find European river cruises without single supplements.
Here at River Voyages, we have a team of expert Concierge who can give you a quote for one person on any river cruise, as well as advising on the best time to book to secure the best deals on river cruises without single supplements in 2020 and 2021.