Many think of ocean cruising as a vacation option mainly for retirees and honeymooners. Ships have traditionally catered to these groups. However, in the last couple decades, there have been more families with children, as well.
In addition, there has been an upward trend in solo cruisers. Passengers may travel by themselves for a variety of reasons. Many are unattached and are looking for love or just enjoying their freedom. Others enjoy cruising so much that they do it whether or not they have someone with whom to travel. For still others, simply getting away from it all is the goal.
Regardless of why vacationers choose to travel alone, cruise lines are increasingly aware of their solo passengers. While there are many drawbacks to traveling alone on a ship, there are a number of perks one can enjoy, as well.
Accommodations
Typically, a solo cruiser is expected to pay a “single supplement,” a premium price for a cabin that offsets the money that a cruise line loses by booking for only one person instead of two. More ships today are offering solo cabins at an affordable price. These special cabins, which tend to be tiny but chic, often provide access to special services available only to solo passengers.
Moreover, modern cruise lines generally provide flexible dining options. Most ships offer buffet or bistro-style dining establishments amenable to the independent cruiser. By talking to the head waiter, even restaurants with traditional seating can sometimes be rearranged to suit a solo cruiser.
Activities
While it may often feel like most activities on board a ship are geared toward families or couples, many ships offer special events where solo cruisers can mingle. Shipboard discotheques and bars provide places where the outgoing lone traveler can meet others. At the same time, the quieter lounges, adults-only decks, and shipboard libraries provide an environment where a solo cruiser can relax far from the hustle and bustle.
Many shore excursions involve activities designed for people who are partnered. A solo cruiser should look into the details of an excursion before signing up or at least be prepared to sit out some activities or partner with a complete stranger. And, of course, an adventurous passenger can always explore an exotic port entirely alone, as well.
Whether a cruiser is looking to make new friends or to simply enjoy a quiet vacation alone, cruise lines today offer more opportunities for solo sailing than ever before.
