Loading Page...

Is it okay to go on a cruise by yourself?

A solo cruise is an excellent vacation choice if you're looking to experience exciting destinations around the world and make new friends along the way. Sometimes you don't want to wait to see a destination until you have a travel partner who can go with you.



Going on a cruise by yourself is not only "okay" but is a rapidly growing trend in the travel industry known as "solo cruising." Modern cruise lines have become much more accommodating to solo travelers, with many newer ships (like those from Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages) featuring dedicated "studio" cabins designed specifically for one person. These rooms help solo guests avoid the "single supplement" fee, which traditionally forced individuals to pay nearly double the fare to cover the cost of a two-person room. Solo cruising offers the ultimate freedom to set your own schedule, eat when you want, and choose your own excursions without compromise. Most ships also host "solo traveler meet-ups" or social mixers early in the voyage, making it easy to meet people if you wish. Security on cruise ships is generally very high, making it a safe environment for solo travelers compared to many land-based destinations. It is a fantastic way to enjoy a blend of social interaction and personal solitude.

People Also Ask

Choosing a cruise length A short three to four-night cruise can start from as low as $200-$300 per person for an inside cabin, while a week-long cruise can cost anywhere from $500-$1500 per person, depending on the cruise line, the destination, and the type of cabin.

MORE DETAILS

With few exceptions, you are free to walk off the cruise ship and do your own thing. However, if you prefer guides or easy transportation, a shore excursion is probably for you.

MORE DETAILS

The good news is that cruise lines have been listening, and many newer ships, and some retro-fitted older ships, have cabins specifically designed for one person. These include select ships in the Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Costa, P&O Cruises, Fred. Olsen, Celebrity and Holland America fleets.

MORE DETAILS

For cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.
  • No smoking indoors or on balconies. ...
  • No underage drinking. ...
  • No sneaking drugs or alcohol on board. ...
  • You must attend the safety drill. ...
  • Report your symptoms on the health form. ...
  • Return by all-aboard time. ...
  • No guests in crew areas. ...
  • No diapered kids in the pools.


MORE DETAILS

Cruise lines report that as many as 20% of their passengers are solo travelers, so there are plenty of opportunities to make friends and have a great time. If you previously ignored cruises as an option for solo travel, think again. Your next solo adventure might be on a cruise ship.

MORE DETAILS

Passengers under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 25 years old; one adult chaperone is required for every five people under 21.

MORE DETAILS

Many people suggest $100 per day, and this has generally worked well for me in my cruising experiences, but there are a lot of variables to consider.

MORE DETAILS

Food and beverages As part of the cruise price, there is always complimentary food of many types and flavors. Drinks included are tap water, some juices and iced tea on most lines; everything else typically costs extra. Coffee and tea are complimentary, but you'll need to pay for specialty coffee beverages.

MORE DETAILS

? Theme cruises may also be a good option, as introverts “prefer to connect around ideas and shared ideas,” she said. “There is a shared frame of reference, so there's less need for small talk,” Helgoe added. ? Pick your cabin carefully, too, as it can offer some respite as needed.

MORE DETAILS

It's one of the most common questions we hear from cruise veterans and first-timers alike. Fortunately, the answer is a positive one: cruising is one of the safest forms of travel, and the vast majority of cruises pass without incident.

MORE DETAILS

The body will be kept at the morgue until it can be disembarked at the next major port or at the port of origin. The cruise ship morgue is usually a stainless steel refrigerated room where bodies can be stored. They are usually found on the ship's lowest deck, along the ship-wide corridor known as the I-95.

MORE DETAILS

A few cruise lines feature a limited number of cabins designated for single occupancy sparing the solo cruiser from having to pay double. While cruise lines advertise these single cabins as having no supplement, the single rate is usually slightly higher than the per-person rate of comparable double occupancy cabins.

MORE DETAILS

cruise ship docked in harbor during the day in bermuda
  • Crime happens. ...
  • MORE: Safety Tips for Cruisers to Know Before They Go. ...
  • You will be nickel-and-dimed to death. ...
  • Your cabin may be noisy. ...
  • Balconies are overrated. ...
  • You may miss that can't-miss port. ...
  • The ship isn't going to wait for you. ...
  • You won't be alone.


MORE DETAILS

In very general terms, cruising attracts adults ranging in age from their 30s through to their 80s, and you will not find a ship full, exclusively, of 20 year olds.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, you can either book a sailing on your own with the hope of meeting your future soulmate, or you can book with a travel agent who specializes in group cruises for singles. You'll probably have more luck with the latter method, as you'll definitely be sailing with others who are also single.

MORE DETAILS

Cruises can be social vacations, and many avid sailors report making great friends onboard.

MORE DETAILS

Passengers must pass through an airport-style detector and they will have a digital photo taken. Most cruise lines employ former police or military personnel to process boarding checks, and scent dogs may be present to check for drugs, which are among many items prohibited on board.

MORE DETAILS

If you're a vaper, the good news is that Carnival Cruise Line does allow electronic cigarettes and vaping devices on board, but there are some restrictions you should be aware of.

MORE DETAILS