I think what you said about knowing your own travel style is so important. When I was younger, up until I was 50 or so, I enjoyed active vacations in the USA and Europe. I saw so many places on foot, by bicycle or local bus. As I got to my mid fifties my travel style changed. I worked full time and also cared for my aging and sick parents and then my sister. Three years after my mom died my dad and sister died 11 days apart. Since their deaths I usually travel solo and really enjoy cruising and the ship is my destination. I do occasionally get off the ship to explore a new port or in Alaska I do excursions in each port, but my main focus is relaxation. I enjoy someone else preparing my meals and cleaning up. I enjoy the shows in the evenings. I enjoy sitting at shared tables at dinner and meeting new people, but if I’m not in the mood for chatting I can eat by myself too. I do enjoy cruises with my son, but he now lives across the country so it’s not feasible often. I still work full time at 60, but having been at my company for 37 years I accrue a lot of vacation time. I usually book a balcony cabin and often have to pay 50-75% of the single supplement. I try to cruise at least twice a year, one 7 day trip and one 14-16 days long. I never thought I would love cruising, let alone solo cruising, but my travel style changed and my days of camping, hiking and actively exploring new venues has been replaced by listening to the ocean on my balcony while I read or going to dinner and a Broadway style show on a cruise!
@@mimijulene6307 That is awesome. When we meet a solo traveler on a cruise, we invite them to have dinner with us. You meet some very interesting people on cruises.
I am 63. A couple of years ago I took a cruise in Scotland with a company who runs small cruise ships around the Hebrides islands. It was the best. They are called "The Majectic line". Each boat can take around 12 passangers and 2 rooms are for solo guests alone at no extra cost. It was perfect. I loved it. I recommend.
That sounds incredible!! I’m 55, solo and just found ancestors in Scotland .. I want to go to complete my genealogy research and of course explore. Will look this up!
All cruise ships should offer accommodation for single folk without charging them extra. Why should single people be treated as though we are the odd ones and expected to pay extra on top of that?
I think I've found my soul sister! I'm 59, solo for 23 years, and silver haired! Many of your ideas are echoed in my life as well, but I think you're more organized than I am! Thank you for your channel. I really enjoy it! ❤
I made a friend on a cruise and sometimes we go together, both solo. For people who like to be alone I think it is perfect, always good conversations and surprises. For me it is a adventure. But I am 75. Spread your wings wherever you want to go! Have fun!
I really enjoyed my four transatlantic crossings on the Queen Mary 2 (QM2) in 2017 and 2018...my way of getting to and from the UK for further land travel. There's lots to do on a transatlantic crossing...lectures given on various subjects by subject-matter experts, movies, shows in the planetarium, various other activities like wine tastings, fencing classes, painting classes, trivia contests, and also, a morning coffee meet-up for single travelers. I booked an interior cabin for all my crossings due to cost; it was fine for me. What I really enjoyed was dressing up for dinner most evenings...a cocktail dress at minimum, a long dress/gown other evenings...and all of the crossings had a "Roaring 20s" theme night where I and many passengers dressed in 1920-era attire. The dress code on Cunard ships has been amended since the pandemic...fewer "gala" or theme nights, and permitting men for many nights being able to go without a suit jacket in the dining rooms. So, on a transatlantic crossing, one can do a lot, very little, or nothing at all! But for the pandemic, I would have been on a Cunard voyage on the QM2 or one of the other Cunard ships. That said, now I would voyage either before or after baseball season...anyway, I can recommend Cunard as a cruise line worth considering...another thing I would recommend is to ALWAYS choose your own cabin..."saver" fares where one books just the cabin category can be hit or miss...I've heard of passengers getting cabins they did not like for one reason or another...too close to the anchor, too far forward where there is more ship motion to be felt, and for those light sleepers, cabins that abut a staff-only passageway, the laundry room, or being too close to the elevators...I always have a copy of the deck plan open on my iMac anytime I am looking at possibly booking a cruise...hope my comments are helpful to anyone reading this!
Great things to think about when you are planning A trip like that. My advice is go now. Go before any health issues arise .Those can really screw up Your retirement plans
Your describing cruising is just perfectly put At the END of your video… And I am one who loves being pampered, having room service 24 seven with breakfast brought in daily to have on my patio,, dining at the finest restaurants, having the best massages of a lifetime, (multiple days) and enjoying the sunshine, the beautiful seas, the pools, fresh air, casinos, drinks, and the multiple friendly, exotic ports (Cozumel is the BOMB!) is just so exhilarating! Did it solo before and now that Covid is passing I’m getting ready to do it again! It was an absolute week of heaven. And those room stewards twice a day making you cute little towel. Animals left on your turned down bed at night with chocolates on your pillows really made you feel so very special!! In spite of that increased single fare price- it was SO SO worth it!!
I'm 75 and I've taken 11 cruises, all Princess, all solo, balcony cabins and wouldn't hesitate to go on another one. Yes, more expensive but I'm worth it. My favourites were to Alaska, 3 times, absolutely beautiful. Really enjoy your channel.
Take NCL they are the inventors of solo cabins. I was just on the Bliss to Mexico. Solo cabins are small but they have everything you need! When Norwegian has a sale it covers free drink package, 1 upscale restaurant, couple of hours of internet, half off an excursion. I had a great time, there’s a lounge for solo cruises with coffee, tea, juice, water and some baked goods. There are solo cruisers get togethers. Anyway I’m a solo cruiser and just sharing my experience.
Yes, that was the first solo cruise that I did. I was with family, but they were on the other side of the ship, and I got a solo cabin and I loved the idea that I didn't have to go to breakfast everyday, that I could just grab what I wanted and go back to my room. I posted videos about that particular cruise. If you want to look at the videos go to my name on youtube. Melanie Draughon and you can see the videos. I'm doing another one on Virgin Voyages this year.
@@Shantelle6253. I am 73 years old and a solo traveller. I do not like sharing a room and never have. I have done nine NCL cruises in the last two years. I’ve never gone in a solo cabin. I have always gone in a full cabin, because they regularly have specials where the single supplement is free. I have never paid double for any room. They have several cabins that will suit ♿️ and you would not have any problems whatsoever. I personally don’t like the solo cabins as they are terribly small and therefore not enough storage space. Every night at 6 o’clock NCL always holds Solo Meet Up (look up where it is held when you first board) and then you have people to have dinner with etc Hope this helps you
I’ve cruised solo eleven times (all on one cruise line because of familiarity) but my next one will be on another line that is more geared to my “style” of cruising. For me, a cruise is a “safe” way for me to spend a few hours in different places. I don’t have to think/worry about transportation between destinations, the cost of lodging and meals, etc. I do want to branch out and do more land-based traveling, but even then, I think I’ll still book tours so I’ll travel as part of a smaller group especially since a lot of them seem to be inclusive of several meals and transportation to and from the starting point. I still do love being on a ship, so I will always be a solo cruiser.
Hi Jen. As an experienced cruiser I completely agree with you concerning the single supplement. However unless you are an avid drinker, skip the drink package and the internet is not worth it. An inside cabin is my first choice because I can sleep when I want, and I spend little time in my cabin.i love the sea days and I view a cruise as you would a buffet, I get to sample several ports and can make an informed choice as to where I would like to return and spend more time. using this method I was able to return to Alaska and spend a month in an air bnb . You needed to have an experienced cruiser with you to avoid the traps. And show you how to get the most out of your cruise. I am sorry you didn’t get a better expierence. I would cruise more if it weren’t for the supplement. I really enjoy your channel. Thank you
I went on a 10 day cruise and even though I had the premium drink, wi-fi and gratuities package - I tipped about an extra $1000 for tips- I see the pre-paid gratuity is for those people I don’t see face to face- kitchen staff, entertainment staff, etc. For the cabin steward, bartenders, servers, porter at the port, hostess at the upgraded restaurants, the tour bus driver, the sommelier, valet parking attendant all deserve tips and I gave in cash. They work for the tips is a MAJORITY OF THEIR PAY!! My cabin steward got almost $200, each time my mom and I would sit at the bar, when we ordered our first drinks at the bar- I gave a $20 tip each time and the drink would flow freely and often!! It was my first cruise (62 yo) and only the 3rd vacation in my life (workaholic) and it was my treat for my mom’s 84th birthday.
Tipping culture is so inhumane and problematic. You have to rely on people you don't know for rent money/survival. I'm very grateful we don't have it in Australia. $23+ per hour minimum wage for restaurant and coffee shop workers here but It varies. Thanks for sharing about your cruise. Tipping is a big travel expense to think about.
@@user-hh9jo3xv6t MERIT, working hard to advance one’s position, to better one’s life, that of their family and community is important to encourage and support. Great workers that go above and beyond deserve MORE than those that sit on their ass and do the bare minimum. Mammal which include humans do well and THRIVE under a MERIT system. It’s how we were created. Those in the species that are the most clever, strongest, hardest working gets the most of the resources - the best food and the best mates- this ensures the best and the brightest reproduce making the species better, stronger, smarter!! Self esteem is NOT earned by giving someone worthy praise for merely breathing “participation medals” creates narcissists and sociopaths. Self esteem is earned by setting a doable but difficult goal, working hard and struggling to meet that goal- sometimes successful and sometimes not. Developing a sense of mastery, learning can do hard things, self reliance is self esteem. MERIT over mediocrity gives us a sense of accomplishment, self-efficacy and sense of autonomy and control over our future. As mediocrity is encouraged, suicide and crime rates go up. Taking away incentive and opportunities to develop skills to have mastery over one’s world denies people self esteem. Minimum wage jobs in the USA was instituted to encourage employers to give young people or 1st time workers- typically high school and college students- a change to gain important work experience. The lessons learned with this work experience helps people advance to better jobs. It was NEVER meant to be a “living wage” that would support a family.
You sound very generous. Even if one has saved and planned for retirement, sometimes man-made or natural disasters strike. Not everyone is in the position to be able to offer such large tips. In the US, tipping is at the point of being ridiculous. I recently purchased women's underwear directly from the manufacturer, online, I was shocked to be asked for and told that a 25% minimal tip, the least expected for the company's employees. I sent them an Email saying that was inappropriate, and did not encourage me want to do business with them again.
I just found your channel and boy, am I glad. I subscribed because this video really resonated with me. In 2023, I took an Alaskan cruise because I figured it was the best way to see Alaska. Fortunately, I was able to travel with a dear friend of mine because her husband refused to go, so I didn't have to pay the single supplement. It was my first time on a cruise ship. In looking back on the experience, two thoughts keep popping up about cruising -- I absolutely LOVED the feeling of being on the seas, and I hated being herded around like cattle. So I don't see myself taking a solo cruise, primarily for all the issues you mentioned as well as the being herded around part. Alaska was my 50th and final state to visit, and I'll always be grateful for the experience because the state is glorious. I'm so proud that I conquered my fear of the water and made this happen for myself. I love travel for lots of reasons but most of all, for the experience of connecting with other people, cultures, experiences, environments, etc. Like you, I'm an introvert but I also value the time I spend connecting with others. I look forward to watching more of your videos. Thank you.
@@AlicePhillips-jc7hr I highly recommend the Alaska Cruise and Land tour. We stayed at a lodge in Denali for two nights and we saw lots of wildlife. As far as being herded, just avoid the excursions. You can walk the cities on your own. The best excursions for us was whale watching and the Salmon bake. I do not recommend the Tundra Wilderness Tour. It’s 8 hours on a bus and we only saw a coyote. Everyone on the bus was sick and the following day, we had to miss a couple excursions because we were sick and stayed in our hotel room.
Everyone who travels solo should watch this video. It's mostly about discovering the real reasons for traveling. You've thoroughly thought through your experience and now can finely hone your future approach. Congratulations.
The 'real reason' for many people who cruise seems to be to rack up the numbers so they can come on UA-cam to tell everyone they're off on their 43rd cruise. Cringe.
thank you for your video. I have travel solo cruise several times and I liked it, a lot, first of all I love the Ocean: I clearly see God handywork in the Ocean and in the firmament; second I love the variety of food; third I like some shows and lectures, not the sleazy shows of sleazzy comedians; many times I encounter good decent people that I can hold a good intelligent conversation; I enjoy scouting the ship amenities and the ship structures and characteristics, sometimes you can talk with the first officer or the capitain; the ports are fine, but not man main attraction, specially when there is delinquency or assalting the tourist will all kind of traps.
Many years ago, my ex-husband and I went to Hawaii and spent 3 days on each of 4 islands. It was a great trip and gave us the time to explore and soak up the atmosphere of each of the different islands. In the 90's, I went to Australia and New Zealand with a friend and did something similar, spending a few days in different areas. That was a 3 week trip and probably the best trip I have ever been on.
I've never been on a cruise and, like you, still working so my vacation days are limited. The key, for me, has been to define the cruise I'm going to take someday as a vacation on a ship, not as transportation to shore excursions. For seeing lots of shore sites without the time constraints of having to be back to the ship, I'd recommend a small expert-lead tour. For example, I got on the email list of an author whose books I enjoy and managed to get into one of the 10-person tours he leads. Fixed fee, everything was taken care of (transportation, site entry fees, lodging) plus a true expert tour guide.
Interesting perspective. From your objectives, I think you would love to sail on Viking, Oceania, or Azamara. They aren't less expensive than Princess but they all have a strong focus on itinerary and immersion. And Viking has some overnight stays in certain ports. Enjoy!
I started to watch your videos today, and I am already your fan! I love that you are real, that you share your experience in UA-cam, and that you are demonstrating that anyone can do it if take this seriously like you did. Way to go! Jen. I am looking forward to watching more of your videos and to see your channel to keep growing! 🎉🎉🎉
Hello. I'm new to your channel and enjoyed this post. As one who has been on both large and small ships, I would recommend small ship cruises, particularly river cruises. You are literally moored in the heart of the city-no time wasted in transfers from ship to shore. Another way to get a more immersive experience is to stay a few days before and/or after the cruise (usually in major cities) and hire a private local tour guide. While the ship excursions in those ports usually try to cram in as much as they can in one day, with a private local guide you can tailor your own excursions to your time schedule and interests-think sunrise in Istanbul then palace tour before the crowds from the ships arrive. You can create your own itinerary. Do vet the guide service with research online or through your travel agent. Also, by staying in a local hotel for a few days you have the chance to get a feel of daily life of the area and hit some local restaurants. One of the best dinners I had while traveling was from a tip from a local person while doing my laundry at the local laundromat. I second the recommendation of checking out Rick Steves tours and books. Safe travels to you in the future.
I cruised solo in 2016 as a late 40’s and I had a great time! Read a complete book whilst on board, did excursions, was “adopted” by other travelers and families. It was awesome! Would do it again in a heartbeat
Thanks for your videos. They are very helpful and so clearly thought out. After watching your cruise videos I would like to suggest a “Rick Steve’s “ Tour. I went as a solo as did about half our tour. So half couples half singles. I did the England tour. 2 days in each place so you get time to explore. Excellent tour guides. You can choose to join the group on excursions or just explore alone. You do travel by coach every second day. Not all dinners are included but most. I thoroughly enjoyed it. A little pricey as it’s an American company .
Jen, I’m halfway through this video and stopped it briefly to say, you sound like I feel about cruising vs the excursions. I love the sites, sounds, and people of new, sometimes exotic places. I know I have to cruise with the mindset that a cruise is more about the cruise experience and all it offers onboard while solo traveling to destinations gives you a richer and broader sense of place. I love a cruise for the cruise. But stepping off a plane with new adventures ahead of you and no restrictions on you and time, is both exciting and freeing. Happy traveling to you, however you go.
I think you may enjoy a river cruise. Thanks for sharing your perspective on this cruise 🚢. I agree that cruises are best enjoyed with a friend or family member. I personally loved my experience aboard the Regal Princess.
As a silver single, I did a solo river cruise at 72 , 2 years ago. Though it is expensive , by booking one-year ahead I was able to save (ie not pay) the single supplement . Because numbers are smaller and you all eat at the same time in the sane dining room, I was able to meet and talk with many on board. More importantly you never have to eat alone. Excursions were wonderful and included as were all tips and wifi. I do not see myself taking a solo ocean cruise but would definitely recommend a river cruise Mine was with Emerald for 2 weeks) I thought a small bus guided tour would be another solo possibility but having experienced one last spring with a friend realized that since this tour did not eat together, you would often be on your own.
I just finished my 4th solo cruise in 18 months. I did 2 transatlantic cruises both directions and loved it! Both cruises were sold out - Princess and Cunard. I hate jet lag and can’t sleep on a plane and hate unpacking and repacking every day. Paying double for the room is a definite downer.
Hello I'm a new subscriber having just binge watched your channel whilst recovering from pneumonia. Thank you for sharing your experiences. I was a workaholic who seldom allowed myself to take time away from work or family responsibilities long enough to indulge in the travel and experiences i planned to do one day. Wiser now, I realise it was my responsibility to take time for myself. Retired and with severe health and mobility issues maybe a bit of pampering would make things possible or easier for me.! Thank you for sharing your experiences as I really have enjoyed myself with your videos today. God bless. Vera in Northern Ireland
Insightful video. You may well enjoy a cruise to Antarctica. I did one and the focus was more on the excursions so to speak and not on ship activities and amenities. Here’s a tip though: don’t underestimate the rigor involved in getting in and out of the Zodiac boats and doing the shore landings etc. It’s all very doable, but be mentally prepared. People are overly concerned about the cold weather but the real challenge is the physicality required.
That is why an Antarctic cruise is not anything I would do with my creaky knees...also, the long plane trip to and from South America, not to mention crossing the Drake Passage from the tip of South America to and from Antarctica...plus the "expedition" ships doing these voyages are all much smaller than what I'm used to on the Cunard ships...
I’ve never travelled outside of Australia or been on any sort of cruise. I am on a limited income so I think a solo cruise would be out of range for me unless I won lotto. I’ve always wanted to do one of those river cruises like Viking does and see a few European countries. Your video had some very valid points and I would like to explore more than being pampered too. The ease of mobility that you mentioned would appeal as I use a wheelie walker. Thank you for your down to earth video. ❤
Hi! I have mostly traveled solo and prefer it. Unstructured itineraries are my favorite, so I’m very glad to get your impressions of cruising. I have been curious. Probably most long cruises won’t work well for me, but I still want to do an ocean crossing cruise. Thanks to the YT algorithms that put your channel in my feed. :-)
Well done video, and thank you for posting. I have been looking for a senior "joint" journey -- I don't care to where, but haven't seen any of these that don't presume you'll bring your own "second". And this helped me make a decision about cruising solo.
I do land-based vacations and typically like to rent a car. However, a friend and I are taking a Mediterranean cruise this year. We both wanted our own room so we had to pay the single supplement but the cruise was having a sale so we each paid just a little more for our own stateroom than we would have paid if we shared a stateroom without the sale. Our staterooms will be next to one another and we’ll both have balconies. But once I retire in a couple of years, I want to start slow traveling - renting a VRBO for a month or two and really get to know an area. I’ll probably look for a travel companion who has my same goals - spend maybe 60% of the days seeing the sites and the other days cooking, relaxing, reading in local cafes, strolling around town, etc.
You can be just as pampered at an all inclusive resort. I’m looking for somewhere to travel solo, and you made my decision easy about a cruise not being something for me.
I love your videos. I love your frankness and warm manner. It’s like chatting with a good friend that you have known a long time. I am 74 and married. If I was to find myself suddenly single again I would probably cruise again. My second husband and I did several cruises together when we were younger. I think I would like to do it again. I need the safety and the pampering of it all. I certainly don’t get around as much as I used to due to health issues.
Thanks for the advice. I would prefer the excursions. I hate being rushed when I explore. I think I would love the on-board activities but the exploration is more important to me.
Saga Cruises, a UK company offering cruises for seniors, has solo cabins in all categories. Over 20% of the cabins are for single cruisers. They are all outside cabins. They do cost more than 1/2 of a double cabin. However, they are larger than many solo cabins on other lines. Many costs are included in the base fare, including port fees, taxes, all beverages, etc. I think some shore excursions are included. They cruise in Britain and Europe. They consider themselves a luxory line. Their ships are on the smaller side but not tiny. They carry 1438 to 2000 passengers.
The two new Saga ships have a deliberate maximum of 999 passengers. I have cruised as a solo with this cruise line since 2012 and am off again in April. Very expensive as a solo? Yes. But what is offered makes up for it especially the all balcony cabins which, even at the lowest grade, are way larger than offerings on other lines. The major advantage as a Brit with this company is the organised pick up from my front door and return to it; easily done in a small country, impossible in the US or Canada. I would far rather save and enjoy a Saga ship than be on a 3600 passenger ship where, which ever way I turn, I need to spend extra over and above the inflated base price in a far inferior cabin.
I love cruising solo because everything is included from the ocean views, ports, meals and entertainment. I also find it a safe way to travel for not much more than a hotel stay❤🎉😊
Cruising solo: the perfect opportunity to be the captain of your own adventure! With everything included, from the breathtaking ocean views to the scrumptious meals, it's like living in a luxury hotel that sails across the seas. Bon voyage!
You might need to check the reality of 'safety' on cruises. Generally they are in a very obscure jurisdiction (the one that the ship is registered in) are they in if something happens? (and 'things' happen).
Excellent video! I am also a solo traveller - have thought about cruising, but don't think it's for me, for many of the reasons you give. The only 'cruises' I've done were to Antarctica and the Artic. I did really enjoy them - if you did decide to do Antarctica I'd suggest go on a small expedition ship - the one I went with was only 100 passengers - rather than a 'cruise'. The focus is entirely on the destination rather than the ship stuff.
So informative! I'd quite like to try a solo cruise but would need to choose carefully...a friend went recently and wasn't too happy about the short port stops (plus, it was a summer cruise and the ship was fully booked!)
Im retired,older than you ,have flight benefits, I won't cruise again.been cruising for over 20 yrs, but prices have goné out of the roof.i prefer to fly for free,spend a few days in Lisbon,train to Barcelona . I dont eat enough food,see any shows,or pay exorbitant rates for excursions.im done.love to explore towns,seaside towns,different countries.sydney and Rio this year.in Puerto Vallarta now for 2 weeks.snow storm in eàst coast stopped my trip to Portugal.i connect thru philàdelphia .next month Valencia,Spain.bookéd beach front hotel room.love being rétired😅😅
I like to have a home base (close to amenities) and then move out from there. I enjoy going to the local markets and bakeries to buy my food. Basically, living like a local, doing my own thing. This video is very eye opening. Most people don’t consider their travel style.
There are websites and newsletters you can monitor for solo sales; there will often be smaller or nil supplements. Also, since solo cruising has become so much more popular, it pays to look well in advance.
Was surprised you didn't address feeling solo. If you enjoy meeting others, the ease of doing so amongst so many pairs and parties. The social side of vacation.
I’ve been on cruises that had a large group of solos that never met. They blended well when they wanted to and no one cared if they were by themselves or not. And then we had solos that were roommates and left their spouses at home. Yes, it was a smaller ship but it just works!
I've cruised solo a few times. The lines I've been with have seated solos together for dining and also put on lots of social events specifically for solos. I also play bridge & have always been able to organise sessions for other bridge players. That said, standards generally on cruise lines have slipped since I first travelled in 1998 to the extent that I no longer enjoy this type of holiday.
Antarctica is also on my bucket list! I've done a few cruises and you can get solo fares for sure. Get a Princess travel advisor. Mine is Jeannie Watkins and she helps me out a lot. It would be interesting for you to actually fare out a trip to the UK - hotels, meals, transportation etc to all of the same places, and see if you could do it for less than $3K. My guess is not as hotels in the UK are really expensive! One cruise you may want to consider is Panama. It was incredibly relaxing. I used to be like you and was ALLLL about the excursions. But now, I appreciate the ship time too. The Mediterranean cruise is incredible as well, but so busy and I was exhausted when I came home. Needed a rest from my vacation! LOL
I’m going on a cruise in 2 days. It was a gift from my family for my 70th birthday. All 12 of us are going. I read and researched a lot, but what I experience will be different. I’m expecting it to be good. I have thought about solo traveling on a cruise because I have heard good things, but didn’t look into it enough to know it was that expensive. Thanks for the information, it was helpful. ❤️
The thing is, Jan, you're working still. If you only have a limited number of days for your holiday, then if you want to see more places, or to spend longer in each place you stop at, you have to have longer to be on holiday. I think you need to retire as early as you can and go off travelling then! You could spend the first year of your retirement going around Europe, for instance - or another big continent, perhaps one that speaks English would be easiest. Thank you for this video, I'm enjoying your content. I am also considering cruising. I don't know if it will work for me but not for the same reasons as you.
I have always loved cruising, but it was especially great as a single mom with a young daughter. I didn't have to try to nagivate everywhere on top of attending to her. I think now that if I cruise I find a "cruise buddy" and go when my goal for a vacation is, as you said, to really relax, be catered to, have wonderful food, and just not have any "worries" in general. I also can see a cruise being ideal for that period when I'm older and no longer really "up" to making a ton of arrangements, navigating on my own, etc. But mostly now, I think I would travel on my own as you described, with the maximum flexibility, lower costs (which allows for more extensive trips overall), etc. You definitely made me really think about cruising as an option at our age - heading towards 60 - and maybe choosing instead to be more adventurous while I still can be.
One other thought...cruises can be very good for trips to countries where you absolutely don't speak a word of the native language, especially for those people who are intimidated by that. It gives you a "taste" of the country/countries, without feeling so completely overwhelmed by the inability to communicate well - a feeling that can be accentuated for a solo traveler.
My first solo cruise was to Havana. Yes I despise the fact that they charge you for being solo , I wouldn’t have changed a single thing. This was on my bucket list and I am so happy I did it. It was amazing. Life is experiences. Take them! Have them! LIFE!
I’ve gone to the UK twice as a solo traveler and was wondering if I could save some money if I did a solo cruise instead. I’m glad to have found your perspective. When it comes to that specific destination, I will always do my own planning because I have specific goals. I’m trying my first solo cruise soon (in the Caribbean) and opted for a fairly short one. I already know it’s costing me more than I would typically pay for a 5 day trip. I just wanted to try it to see if it is something I would like. I’m still really interested in a Cunard Transatlantic cruise just because I love the cultural aspect of it…I already know no one in my life is willing to do that with me so it will be a solo trip.
As I was reading the comments I was thinking of Road Scholar. Took 2 solo cruises through them on Celebrity and loved them. Smaller ships. That was before they changed 2 ownerships. But Road Scholar has so many other offerings from weekend to weeklong activities near and far. Sure to find something of interest. Unfortunately, now at 82 with health problems I cannot even do day trips. 🥲
@@Angiehere-1We have only been on 4 cruises since maybe 2002 - but they were in the order you wrote them above: 2 Hal, 1 transatlantic Royal Car, and 1 transpacific Celebrity, This fall I will be going solo in a NCL studio for a 2week transatlantic cruise which scares me a bit - but I really have liked sea days, and hope that there will be quiet things for me as an introvert to do. Celebrity had a choir and art "classes" - not really classes - they just put out art supplies and said we had 1.5 hours in the room.
Oceania, on the smaller R class ships, are reported to have changed the obstructed view cabins that were wider because they lost depth from the lifeboats into solo rooms. I was in one of those rooms on Azamara, years ago, with 2 people. Indeed many believe that Oceania has made a good choice, based on configuration, for making these still smaller rooms into solo rooms. Those on cruise critics add that the bed should be reduced in width king to queen etc. to make a bit more floor space in the cabin. I haven’t been around Oceania long enough to know how solo friendly they really are. We were in a block of rooms but not really a group. The only solo I met was male and those experiences are just different. Crystal also used to have reduced solo rates. They even had dance partners for solo dancers. I have no idea what the new owners are doing though. Although this is not the year to be in the Red Sea, Crystal has an April 2, with pre cruise option, to places most American cruiser have never explored. I really liked the itinerary but also think they’ve lost their minds with that itinerary😇.
I’ve cruised twice with friends. We share a ‘stateroom’ because the single supplement is a killer. I think it’s a great way of seeing a lot in a short time but as you say you don’t get a lot of time in each place. Last year I went on a group tour with the same friends to Turkey. Travel was by bus. 8 hotels in 12 nights. Single person supplement was reasonable. It would be great if you were going solo because the group was a mixture of couples and singles and people were very friendly. 😊
Did the same cruise as you as a solo last year £1800 but that included the drinks etc package otherwise it would have been £1400 . This was in an obstructed view window cabin ( part of a lifeboat in front and allowed light into the cabin)
I completely understand why cruising is not for you Jen but knowing how 'canny' you are and how you usually inform yourself so well, I am intrigued that you went ahead when you knew the solo supplement and excursion schedules. I did the Camino Frances two years ago and think you'd love that.
THANK YOU! You are easy to listen to - calm!! I am a single solo traveler, over 60. I don’t love all that pampering - prefer to immerse myself in other places/countries. Might consider a repositioning cruise w/ a few stops - now that I have seen your video - maybe not.
Thanks so much! I'm not sure I would like a repositioning cruise, unless I took it to a destination where I had further plans to explore after the cruise. Great to hear from you!
Am thinking that I might get too lonely, if I went solo. I've never been on a cruise before, but am only interested in going to Alaska. I want to see more than just the ship. Anyway, thanks for your insights.
Big 5 South Africa. Now, that will give you material for your channell. Best time to visit is August. November till April is too hot. Wilderness Adventure awaits you. 5star Accommodation is available. Love your channel.
My friends and I visited South Africa in September and were absolutely frozen! 🥶The weather in Capetown was so cold and windy that the Robin Island Ferry foundered and partially sank and the passengers had to abandon ship. Luckily there was no loss of life. Lucky too that we weren’t on it having been unable to get a booking. 😂
I agree with your findings about cruising, not for me. How long did it take you to get your land legs back? I would love to see more of Vancouver Island. I love exploring near and far way.
Very interesting vlog. I heard on another cruising channel that a major cruise line is charging a single supplement plus. It’s because solo cruisers don’t spend as much on board as two cruisers.
👁👁 Happy to drop by; Went on a one and only cruse … Hated it… Crowds ….lines ….😱 screaming little people …lounge chairs all taken pool side … constantly tipping… More lines waiting… felt like cattle…! The same food buffet everyday … extra fees $$$$ for a nice dinner…on board … 15:06
Great insights Jen. I was hoping you’d talk a bit about how you found it being onboard as a solo traveller. Eg. Were there lots of other solo travellers or did you feel like the odd one out with loads of couples. Did you eat alone, or join other people’s tables? Was it easy to get chatting to people
I was super busy with excursions every day, and there were a few other solos on those. I mainly ate alone in the buffet, because that's what I prefer, but I chatted to people freely and everyone was very friendly and nice.
I don't like feeling like I'm being exploited, so would chose an alternative mode of transport or it could be possible to hook up with another solo traveller but again you are taking chance
did solo Alaska Cruise on Encore. I loved it, but you do have a point about the $$. I will do solo cruising as part of my vacation/retirement. They are expensive, solo or not. But there is value for sure. I am more Itinerary focused as well. These cruises are like a wine tasting, a little here and a little there. go back later for full story, so to speak. There are a few Bucket list cruises I have yet to do: Panama Cannel to name one. As I cruise more I will know how to make it more affordable, but it will never be the cheapest way to see a place.
I don't like travelling anymore on expensive stuff. I rather watch you tube to see the world. It's basically free and without stress. This life is temporary anyway. Why go to get pampered and be dissapointed and even if pampered, you back to normal life. Pamper yourself at your house.
I think what you said about knowing your own travel style is so important. When I was younger, up until I was 50 or so, I enjoyed active vacations in the USA and Europe. I saw so many places on foot, by bicycle or local bus. As I got to my mid fifties my travel style changed. I worked full time and also cared for my aging and sick parents and then my sister. Three years after my mom died my dad and sister died 11 days apart. Since their deaths I usually travel solo and really enjoy cruising and the ship is my destination. I do occasionally get off the ship to explore a new port or in Alaska I do excursions in each port, but my main focus is relaxation. I enjoy someone else preparing my meals and cleaning up. I enjoy the shows in the evenings. I enjoy sitting at shared tables at dinner and meeting new people, but if I’m not in the mood for chatting I can eat by myself too. I do enjoy cruises with my son, but he now lives across the country so it’s not feasible often. I still work full time at 60, but having been at my company for 37 years I accrue a lot of vacation time. I usually book a balcony cabin and often have to pay 50-75% of the single supplement. I try to cruise at least twice a year, one 7 day trip and one 14-16 days long. I never thought I would love cruising, let alone solo cruising, but my travel style changed and my days of camping, hiking and actively exploring new venues has been replaced by listening to the ocean on my balcony while I read or going to dinner and a Broadway style show on a cruise!
@@mimijulene6307 That is awesome. When we meet a solo traveler on a cruise, we invite them to have dinner with us. You meet some very interesting people on cruises.
I am 63. A couple of years ago I took a cruise in Scotland with a company who runs small cruise ships around the Hebrides islands. It was the best. They are called "The Majectic line". Each boat can take around 12 passangers and 2 rooms are for solo guests alone at no extra cost. It was perfect. I loved it. I recommend.
That sounds incredible!! I’m 55, solo and just found ancestors in Scotland .. I want to go to complete my genealogy research and of course explore. Will look this up!
All cruise ships should offer accommodation for single folk without charging them extra. Why should single people be treated as though we are the odd ones and expected to pay extra on top of that?
I think I've found my soul sister! I'm 59, solo for 23 years, and silver haired! Many of your ideas are echoed in my life as well, but I think you're more organized than I am! Thank you for your channel. I really enjoy it! ❤
I made a friend on a cruise and sometimes we go together, both solo. For people who like to be alone I think it is perfect, always good conversations and surprises. For me it is a adventure. But I am 75. Spread your wings wherever you want to go! Have fun!
I really enjoyed my four transatlantic crossings on the Queen Mary 2 (QM2) in 2017 and 2018...my way of getting to and from the UK for further land travel. There's lots to do on a transatlantic crossing...lectures given on various subjects by subject-matter experts, movies, shows in the planetarium, various other activities like wine tastings, fencing classes, painting classes, trivia contests, and also, a morning coffee meet-up for single travelers. I booked an interior cabin for all my crossings due to cost; it was fine for me. What I really enjoyed was dressing up for dinner most evenings...a cocktail dress at minimum, a long dress/gown other evenings...and all of the crossings had a "Roaring 20s" theme night where I and many passengers dressed in 1920-era attire. The dress code on Cunard ships has been amended since the pandemic...fewer "gala" or theme nights, and permitting men for many nights being able to go without a suit jacket in the dining rooms. So, on a transatlantic crossing, one can do a lot, very little, or nothing at all! But for the pandemic, I would have been on a Cunard voyage on the QM2 or one of the other Cunard ships. That said, now I would voyage either before or after baseball season...anyway, I can recommend Cunard as a cruise line worth considering...another thing I would recommend is to ALWAYS choose your own cabin..."saver" fares where one books just the cabin category can be hit or miss...I've heard of passengers getting cabins they did not like for one reason or another...too close to the anchor, too far forward where there is more ship motion to be felt, and for those light sleepers, cabins that abut a staff-only passageway, the laundry room, or being too close to the elevators...I always have a copy of the deck plan open on my iMac anytime I am looking at possibly booking a cruise...hope my comments are helpful to anyone reading this!
Very helpful!
Great things to think about when you are planning A trip like that. My advice is go now. Go before any health issues arise .Those can really screw up Your retirement plans
Your describing cruising is just perfectly put At the END of your video… And I am one who loves being pampered, having room service 24 seven with breakfast brought in daily to have on my patio,, dining at the finest restaurants, having the best massages of a lifetime, (multiple days) and enjoying the sunshine, the beautiful seas, the pools, fresh air, casinos, drinks, and the multiple friendly, exotic ports (Cozumel is the BOMB!) is just so exhilarating! Did it solo before and now that Covid is passing I’m getting ready to do it again! It was an absolute week of heaven. And those room stewards twice a day making you cute little towel. Animals left on your turned down bed at night with chocolates on your pillows really made you feel so very special!! In spite of that increased single fare price- it was SO SO worth it!!
I'm 75 and I've taken 11 cruises, all Princess, all solo, balcony cabins and wouldn't hesitate to go on another one. Yes, more expensive but I'm worth it. My favourites were to Alaska, 3 times, absolutely beautiful.
Really enjoy your channel.
Take NCL they are the inventors of solo cabins. I was just on the Bliss to Mexico. Solo cabins are small but they have everything you need! When Norwegian has a sale it covers free drink package, 1 upscale restaurant, couple of hours of internet, half off an excursion.
I had a great time, there’s a lounge for solo cruises with coffee, tea, juice, water and some baked goods. There are solo cruisers get togethers. Anyway I’m a solo cruiser and just sharing my experience.
I also read that NCL is going to have dedicated solo balcony cabins available on all ships starting in Jan 24....I'm re-thinking... :)
Yes, that was the first solo cruise that I did. I was with family, but they were on the other side of the ship, and I got a solo cabin and I loved the idea that I didn't have to go to breakfast everyday, that I could just grab what I wanted and go back to my room. I posted videos about that particular cruise. If you want to look at the videos go to my name on youtube. Melanie Draughon and you can see the videos. I'm doing another one on Virgin Voyages this year.
The NCL solo cabins are often priced more than a regular cabin on NCL.
I love the NCL solo cabins but I don't know how to make that work now that I'm ♿.
@@Shantelle6253. I am 73 years old and a solo traveller. I do not like sharing a room and never have. I have done nine NCL cruises in the last two years. I’ve never gone in a solo cabin. I have always gone in a full cabin, because they regularly have specials where the single supplement is free. I have never paid double for any room. They have several cabins that will suit ♿️ and you would not have any problems whatsoever. I personally don’t like the solo cabins as they are terribly small and therefore not enough storage space. Every night at 6 o’clock NCL always holds Solo Meet Up (look up where it is held when you first board) and then you have people to have dinner with etc Hope this helps you
I’ve cruised solo eleven times (all on one cruise line because of familiarity) but my next one will be on another line that is more geared to my “style” of cruising. For me, a cruise is a “safe” way for me to spend a few hours in different places. I don’t have to think/worry about transportation between destinations, the cost of lodging and meals, etc. I do want to branch out and do more land-based traveling, but even then, I think I’ll still book tours so I’ll travel as part of a smaller group especially since a lot of them seem to be inclusive of several meals and transportation to and from the starting point. I still do love being on a ship, so I will always be a solo cruiser.
Cruising has a lot going for it and I too, book tours so I can be part of a group rather than just winging it alone!
Hi Jen. As an experienced cruiser I completely agree with you concerning the single supplement. However unless you are an avid drinker, skip the drink package and the internet is not worth it.
An inside cabin is my first choice because I can sleep when I want, and I spend little time in my cabin.i love the sea days and I view a cruise as you would a buffet, I get to sample several ports and can make an informed choice as to where I would like to return and spend more time. using this method I was able to return to Alaska and spend a month in an air bnb .
You needed to have an experienced cruiser with you to avoid the traps. And show you how to get the most out of your cruise. I am sorry you didn’t get a better expierence. I would cruise more if it weren’t for the supplement.
I really enjoy your channel. Thank you
I went on a 10 day cruise and even though I had the premium drink, wi-fi and gratuities package - I tipped about an extra $1000 for tips- I see the pre-paid gratuity is for those people I don’t see face to face- kitchen staff, entertainment staff, etc. For the cabin steward, bartenders, servers, porter at the port, hostess at the upgraded restaurants, the tour bus driver, the sommelier, valet parking attendant all deserve tips and I gave in cash. They work for the tips is a MAJORITY OF THEIR PAY!!
My cabin steward got almost $200, each time my mom and I would sit at the bar, when we ordered our first drinks at the bar- I gave a $20 tip each time and the drink would flow freely and often!!
It was my first cruise (62 yo) and only the 3rd vacation in my life (workaholic) and it was my treat for my mom’s 84th birthday.
Tipping culture is so inhumane and problematic. You have to rely on people you don't know for rent money/survival. I'm very grateful we don't have it in Australia. $23+ per hour minimum wage for restaurant and coffee shop workers here but It varies. Thanks for sharing about your cruise. Tipping is a big travel expense to think about.
@@user-hh9jo3xv6t MERIT, working hard to advance one’s position, to better one’s life, that of their family and community is important to encourage and support. Great workers that go above and beyond deserve MORE than those that sit on their ass and do the bare minimum. Mammal which include humans do well and THRIVE under a MERIT system. It’s how we were created. Those in the species that are the most clever, strongest, hardest working gets the most of the resources - the best food and the best mates- this ensures the best and the brightest reproduce making the species better, stronger, smarter!! Self esteem is NOT earned by giving someone worthy praise for merely breathing “participation medals” creates narcissists and sociopaths. Self esteem is earned by setting a doable but difficult goal, working hard and struggling to meet that goal- sometimes successful and sometimes not. Developing a sense of mastery, learning can do hard things, self reliance is self esteem.
MERIT over mediocrity gives us a sense of accomplishment, self-efficacy and sense of autonomy and control over our future. As mediocrity is encouraged, suicide and crime rates go up. Taking away incentive and opportunities to develop skills to have mastery over one’s world denies people self esteem.
Minimum wage jobs in the USA was instituted to encourage employers to give young people or 1st time workers- typically high school and college students- a change to gain important work experience. The lessons learned with this work experience helps people advance to better jobs. It was NEVER meant to be a “living wage” that would support a family.
You sound very generous. Even if one has saved and planned for retirement, sometimes man-made or natural disasters strike. Not everyone is in the position to be able to offer such large tips. In the US, tipping is at the point of being ridiculous. I recently purchased women's underwear directly from the manufacturer, online, I was shocked to be asked for and told that a 25% minimal tip, the least expected for the company's employees. I sent them an Email saying that was inappropriate, and did not encourage me want to do business with them again.
@@sjordan7085 there is no tipping for purchasing products online - so not sure as to what you are referring.
What is the cost of the cruise for?
I just found your channel and boy, am I glad. I subscribed because this video really resonated with me. In 2023, I took an Alaskan cruise because I figured it was the best way to see Alaska. Fortunately, I was able to travel with a dear friend of mine because her husband refused to go, so I didn't have to pay the single supplement. It was my first time on a cruise ship. In looking back on the experience, two thoughts keep popping up about cruising -- I absolutely LOVED the feeling of being on the seas, and I hated being herded around like cattle. So I don't see myself taking a solo cruise, primarily for all the issues you mentioned as well as the being herded around part. Alaska was my 50th and final state to visit, and I'll always be grateful for the experience because the state is glorious. I'm so proud that I conquered my fear of the water and made this happen for myself. I love travel for lots of reasons but most of all, for the experience of connecting with other people, cultures, experiences, environments, etc. Like you, I'm an introvert but I also value the time I spend connecting with others. I look forward to watching more of your videos. Thank you.
@@AlicePhillips-jc7hr I highly recommend the Alaska Cruise and Land tour. We stayed at a lodge in Denali for two nights and we saw lots of wildlife. As far as being herded, just avoid the excursions. You can walk the cities on your own. The best excursions for us was whale watching and the Salmon bake. I do not recommend the Tundra Wilderness Tour. It’s 8 hours on a bus and we only saw a coyote. Everyone on the bus was sick and the following day, we had to miss a couple excursions because we were sick and stayed in our hotel room.
Everyone who travels solo should watch this video. It's mostly about discovering the real reasons for traveling. You've thoroughly thought through your experience and now can finely hone your future approach. Congratulations.
Wow, thanks!
The 'real reason' for many people who cruise seems to be to rack up the numbers so they can come on UA-cam to tell everyone they're off on their 43rd cruise. Cringe.
thank you for your video. I have travel solo cruise several times and I liked it, a lot, first of all I love the Ocean: I clearly see God handywork in the Ocean and in the firmament; second I love the variety of food; third I like some shows and lectures, not the sleazy shows of sleazzy comedians; many times I encounter good decent people that I can hold a good intelligent conversation; I enjoy scouting the ship amenities and the ship structures and characteristics, sometimes you can talk with the first officer or the capitain; the ports are fine, but not man main attraction, specially when there is delinquency or assalting the tourist will all kind of traps.
Very thoughtful, thanks!
Some people go on train excursions like the Eurail...That would be my ideal vacation since I'm paranoid of the open water... 🚢 😳🙂
Many years ago, my ex-husband and I went to Hawaii and spent 3 days on each of 4 islands. It was a great trip and gave us the time to explore and soak up the atmosphere of each of the different islands. In the 90's, I went to Australia and New Zealand with a friend and did something similar, spending a few days in different areas. That was a 3 week trip and probably the best trip I have ever been on.
I've never been on a cruise and, like you, still working so my vacation days are limited. The key, for me, has been to define the cruise I'm going to take someday as a vacation on a ship, not as transportation to shore excursions. For seeing lots of shore sites without the time constraints of having to be back to the ship, I'd recommend a small expert-lead tour. For example, I got on the email list of an author whose books I enjoy and managed to get into one of the 10-person tours he leads. Fixed fee, everything was taken care of (transportation, site entry fees, lodging) plus a true expert tour guide.
I agree! I've been on small group tours and they are a much better fit for me!
Interesting perspective. From your objectives, I think you would love to sail on Viking, Oceania, or Azamara. They aren't less expensive than Princess but they all have a strong focus on itinerary and immersion. And Viking has some overnight stays in certain ports. Enjoy!
I started to watch your videos today, and I am already your fan! I love that you are real, that you share your experience in UA-cam, and that you are demonstrating that anyone can do it if take this seriously like you did. Way to go! Jen. I am looking forward to watching more of your videos and to see your channel to keep growing! 🎉🎉🎉
Thank you so much!!
Hello. I'm new to your channel and enjoyed this post. As one who has been on both large and small ships, I would recommend small ship cruises, particularly river cruises. You are literally moored in the heart of the city-no time wasted in transfers from ship to shore. Another way to get a more immersive experience is to stay a few days before and/or after the cruise (usually in major cities) and hire a private local tour guide. While the ship excursions in those ports usually try to cram in as much as they can in one day, with a private local guide you can tailor your own excursions to your time schedule and interests-think sunrise in Istanbul then palace tour before the crowds from the ships arrive. You can create your own itinerary. Do vet the guide service with research online or through your travel agent. Also, by staying in a local hotel for a few days you have the chance to get a feel of daily life of the area and hit some local restaurants. One of the best dinners I had while traveling was from a tip from a local person while doing my laundry at the local laundromat. I second the recommendation of checking out Rick Steves tours and books. Safe travels to you in the future.
I cruised solo in 2016 as a late 40’s and I had a great time! Read a complete book whilst on board, did excursions, was “adopted” by other travelers and families. It was awesome! Would do it again in a heartbeat
That is awesome!
Thanks for your videos. They are very helpful and so clearly thought out.
After watching your cruise videos I would like to suggest a “Rick Steve’s “ Tour. I went as a solo as did about half our tour. So half couples half singles. I did the England tour. 2 days in each place so you get time to explore. Excellent tour guides. You can choose to join the group on excursions or just explore alone. You do travel by coach every second day. Not all dinners are included but most.
I thoroughly enjoyed it. A little pricey as it’s an American company .
Great travel quote! Thanks!
Thank you for sharing. I've seen lots of solo cruisers who love it so it was nice to see another perspective, other things to consider 🤔
I'm not a single but I love your website. Good insights for everybody, and I do agree with your thoughts regarding cruising.
You have great insight. Thanx for the video. We've been on 17 cruises and learn something new each time.
Glad it was helpful!
Jen, I’m halfway through this video and stopped it briefly to say, you sound like I feel about cruising vs the excursions. I love the sites, sounds, and people of new, sometimes exotic places. I know I have to cruise with the mindset that a cruise is more about the cruise experience and all it offers onboard while solo traveling to destinations gives you a richer and broader sense of place. I love a cruise for the cruise. But stepping off a plane with new adventures ahead of you and no restrictions on you and time, is both exciting and freeing. Happy traveling to you, however you go.
I think you may enjoy a river cruise. Thanks for sharing your perspective on this cruise 🚢. I agree that cruises are best enjoyed with a friend or family member. I personally loved my experience aboard the Regal Princess.
As a silver single, I did a solo river cruise at 72 , 2 years ago. Though it is expensive , by booking one-year ahead I was able to save (ie not pay) the single supplement . Because numbers are smaller and you all eat at the same time in the sane dining room, I was able to meet and talk with many on board. More importantly you never have to eat alone. Excursions were wonderful and included as were all tips and wifi. I do not see myself taking a solo ocean cruise but would definitely recommend a river cruise Mine was with Emerald for 2 weeks)
I thought a small bus guided tour would be another solo possibility but having experienced one last spring with a friend realized that since this tour did not eat together, you would often be on your own.
I just finished my 4th solo cruise in 18 months. I did 2 transatlantic cruises both directions and loved it! Both cruises were sold out - Princess and Cunard. I hate jet lag and can’t sleep on a plane and hate unpacking and repacking every day. Paying double for the room is a definite downer.
Hello I'm a new subscriber having just binge watched your channel whilst recovering from pneumonia. Thank you for sharing your experiences. I was a workaholic who seldom allowed myself to take time away from work or family responsibilities long enough to indulge in the travel and experiences i planned to do one day. Wiser now, I realise it was my responsibility to take time for myself. Retired and with severe health and mobility issues maybe a bit of pampering would make things possible or easier for me.! Thank you for sharing your experiences as I really have enjoyed myself with your videos today. God bless. Vera in Northern Ireland
Thanks very much, and welcome aboard!
Insightful video. You may well enjoy a cruise to Antarctica. I did one and the focus was more on the excursions so to speak and not on ship activities and amenities.
Here’s a tip though: don’t underestimate the rigor involved in getting in and out of the Zodiac boats and doing the shore landings etc. It’s all very doable, but be mentally prepared. People are overly concerned about the cold weather but the real challenge is the physicality required.
That is why an Antarctic cruise is not anything I would do with my creaky knees...also, the long plane trip to and from South America, not to mention crossing the Drake Passage from the tip of South America to and from Antarctica...plus the "expedition" ships doing these voyages are all much smaller than what I'm used to on the Cunard ships...
I’ve never travelled outside of Australia or been on any sort of cruise. I am on a limited income so I think a solo cruise would be out of range for me unless I won lotto. I’ve always wanted to do one of those river cruises like Viking does and see a few European countries. Your video had some very valid points and I would like to explore more than being pampered too. The ease of mobility that you mentioned would appeal as I use a wheelie walker. Thank you for your down to earth video. ❤
Thank you for this. I've always been on the fence about cruises. I think for now, I'll stick to day trips
Great video. Thank you😊
Thanks for watching!
this angle is much better. Way to go.
Hi! I have mostly traveled solo and prefer it. Unstructured itineraries are my favorite, so I’m very glad to get your impressions of cruising. I have been curious. Probably most long cruises won’t work well for me, but I still want to do an ocean crossing cruise. Thanks to the YT algorithms that put your channel in my feed. :-)
Thank you - your video just pointed out all my thoughts about a solo cruise that I’ll probably never make 🤣
Never say never...I'm rethinking.... :)
Well done video, and thank you for posting. I have been looking for a senior "joint" journey -- I don't care to where, but haven't seen any of these that don't presume you'll bring your own "second". And this helped me make a decision about cruising solo.
You can do it!
Interesting vlog. Really helpful. Thanks for starting your channel.
Thanks for watching!
I do land-based vacations and typically like to rent a car. However, a friend and I are taking a Mediterranean cruise this year. We both wanted our own room so we had to pay the single supplement but the cruise was having a sale so we each paid just a little more for our own stateroom than we would have paid if we shared a stateroom without the sale. Our staterooms will be next to one another and we’ll both have balconies. But once I retire in a couple of years, I want to start slow traveling - renting a VRBO for a month or two and really get to know an area. I’ll probably look for a travel companion who has my same goals - spend maybe 60% of the days seeing the sites and the other days cooking, relaxing, reading in local cafes, strolling around town, etc.
Hi Jen
I have never wanted to cruise,
for exactly the same reasons,
well said.
Thank you
Kate
🍃🐢🍃
You are amazing❤
You can be just as pampered at an all inclusive resort. I’m looking for somewhere to travel solo, and you made my decision easy about a cruise not being something for me.
I love your videos. I love your frankness and warm manner. It’s like chatting with a good friend that you have known a long time. I am 74 and married. If I was to find myself suddenly single again I would probably cruise again. My second husband and I did several cruises together when we were younger. I think I would like to do it again. I need the safety and the pampering of it all. I certainly don’t get around as much as I used to due to health issues.
Thanks for the advice. I would prefer the excursions. I hate being rushed when I explore. I think I would love the on-board activities but the exploration is more important to me.
Saga Cruises, a UK company offering cruises for seniors, has solo cabins in all categories. Over 20% of the cabins are for single cruisers. They are all outside cabins. They do cost more than 1/2 of a double cabin. However, they are larger than many solo cabins on other lines. Many costs are included in the base fare, including port fees, taxes, all beverages, etc. I think some shore excursions are included.
They cruise in Britain and Europe.
They consider themselves a luxory line. Their ships are on the smaller side but not tiny. They carry 1438 to 2000 passengers.
I'd like to try one of the smaller ships.
The two new Saga ships have a deliberate maximum of 999 passengers. I have cruised as a solo with this cruise line since 2012 and am off again in April. Very expensive as a solo? Yes. But what is offered makes up for it especially the all balcony cabins which, even at the lowest grade, are way larger than offerings on other lines. The major advantage as a Brit with this company is the organised pick up from my front door and return to it; easily done in a small country, impossible in the US or Canada. I would far rather save and enjoy a Saga ship than be on a 3600 passenger ship where, which ever way I turn, I need to spend extra over and above the inflated base price in a far inferior cabin.
Very Honest and sincere. Sometimes hard to find on UT.
Thanks!
Great video!
Thanks so much!
I love cruising solo because everything is included from the ocean views, ports, meals and entertainment. I also find it a safe way to travel for not much more than a hotel stay❤🎉😊
Cruising solo: the perfect opportunity to be the captain of your own adventure! With everything included, from the breathtaking ocean views to the scrumptious meals, it's like living in a luxury hotel that sails across the seas. Bon voyage!
You might need to check the reality of 'safety' on cruises. Generally they are in a very obscure jurisdiction (the one that the ship is registered in) are they in if something happens? (and 'things' happen).
@@newgabe09 don’t understand what you mean?
Excellent video! I am also a solo traveller - have thought about cruising, but don't think it's for me, for many of the reasons you give. The only 'cruises' I've done were to Antarctica and the Artic. I did really enjoy them - if you did decide to do Antarctica I'd suggest go on a small expedition ship - the one I went with was only 100 passengers - rather than a 'cruise'. The focus is entirely on the destination rather than the ship stuff.
Thanks Christine, I like to try everything once, so, it was worth it even to decide it’s not for me!
Agree. I've done both twice. Both poles and then later an "expedition" cruises.
So informative! I'd quite like to try a solo cruise but would need to choose carefully...a friend went recently and wasn't too happy about the short port stops (plus, it was a summer cruise and the ship was fully booked!)
Im retired,older than you ,have flight benefits, I won't cruise again.been cruising for over 20 yrs, but prices have goné out of the roof.i prefer to fly for free,spend a few days in Lisbon,train to Barcelona . I dont eat enough food,see any shows,or pay exorbitant rates for excursions.im done.love to explore towns,seaside towns,different countries.sydney and Rio this year.in Puerto Vallarta now for 2 weeks.snow storm in eàst coast stopped my trip to Portugal.i connect thru philàdelphia .next month Valencia,Spain.bookéd beach front hotel room.love being rétired😅😅
I love cruising, however I use cruising to be alone. It’s my down time.
Sounds like you got Princess Plus not just a drinks package. If you had wifi and gratuities included, the drink package doesn't get you that.
Thanks for sharing the cruise information. I'm in the same boat as you. I guess I won't be taking any solo cruises either.
I like to have a home base (close to amenities) and then move out from there. I enjoy going to the local markets and bakeries to buy my food. Basically, living like a local, doing my own thing. This video is very eye opening. Most people don’t consider their travel style.
My friend is on a world cruise ..solo ams loving it ..better than spending winter home alone …
I'd say take a close friend 😊 .. I hope to do a paddle boat trip down the Mississippi or a Canadian Rockies train trip.
There are websites and newsletters you can monitor for solo sales; there will often be smaller or nil supplements. Also, since solo cruising has become so much more popular, it pays to look well in advance.
When I’ve cruised solo, it was simply for the motion of the boat and get waited on. It’s my best sleep ever.
I totally agree, but for me is the most safe trip. By bus or a group is very tiering, but it cost. I can recommend Royal caribean. (Pricewise)
I love that quote! I really want to "read more pages" 🤓
Me too!
Was surprised you didn't address feeling solo. If you enjoy meeting others, the ease of doing so amongst so many pairs and parties. The social side of vacation.
I actually like being solo! I don't mind hanging with others, but being an introvert, I prefer being on my own!
I’ve been on cruises that had a large group of solos that never met. They blended well when they wanted to and no one cared if they were by themselves or not. And then we had solos that were roommates and left their spouses at home.
Yes, it was a smaller ship but it just works!
I've cruised solo a few times. The lines I've been with have seated solos together for dining and also put on lots of social events specifically for solos. I also play bridge & have always been able to organise sessions for other bridge players. That said, standards generally on cruise lines have slipped since I first travelled in 1998 to the extent that I no longer enjoy this type of holiday.
Antarctica is also on my bucket list! I've done a few cruises and you can get solo fares for sure. Get a Princess travel advisor. Mine is Jeannie Watkins and she helps me out a lot. It would be interesting for you to actually fare out a trip to the UK - hotels, meals, transportation etc to all of the same places, and see if you could do it for less than $3K. My guess is not as hotels in the UK are really expensive! One cruise you may want to consider is Panama. It was incredibly relaxing. I used to be like you and was ALLLL about the excursions. But now, I appreciate the ship time too. The Mediterranean cruise is incredible as well, but so busy and I was exhausted when I came home. Needed a rest from my vacation! LOL
I wish they would be more accommodating for single people there are a lot of us out here
And growing! Grrr.
I’m going on a cruise in 2 days. It was a gift from my family for my 70th birthday. All 12 of us are going. I read and researched a lot, but what I experience will be different. I’m expecting it to be good. I have thought about solo traveling on a cruise because I have heard good things, but didn’t look into it enough to know it was that expensive. Thanks for the information, it was helpful. ❤️
The thing is, Jan, you're working still. If you only have a limited number of days for your holiday, then if you want to see more places, or to spend longer in each place you stop at, you have to have longer to be on holiday. I think you need to retire as early as you can and go off travelling then! You could spend the first year of your retirement going around Europe, for instance - or another big continent, perhaps one that speaks English would be easiest. Thank you for this video, I'm enjoying your content. I am also considering cruising. I don't know if it will work for me but not for the same reasons as you.
You will like a Norway cruise!
I have always loved cruising, but it was especially great as a single mom with a young daughter. I didn't have to try to nagivate everywhere on top of attending to her. I think now that if I cruise I find a "cruise buddy" and go when my goal for a vacation is, as you said, to really relax, be catered to, have wonderful food, and just not have any "worries" in general. I also can see a cruise being ideal for that period when I'm older and no longer really "up" to making a ton of arrangements, navigating on my own, etc. But mostly now, I think I would travel on my own as you described, with the maximum flexibility, lower costs (which allows for more extensive trips overall), etc. You definitely made me really think about cruising as an option at our age - heading towards 60 - and maybe choosing instead to be more adventurous while I still can be.
One other thought...cruises can be very good for trips to countries where you absolutely don't speak a word of the native language, especially for those people who are intimidated by that. It gives you a "taste" of the country/countries, without feeling so completely overwhelmed by the inability to communicate well - a feeling that can be accentuated for a solo traveler.
Antarctic has the drama of cancellation due to weather
I cannot do an inside cabin. Just booked NCL solo balcony cabin for November. Want to see what’s it like.
Hi Jen. Being a new sub., I like what you have to say.
Welcome aboard!
🙏🤗🙏 Just Subscribed to your Beautiful Channel, Beautiful Lady...THANK GOD for your Channel...🙏😇🙏🤗🙏😘🙏
My first solo cruise was to Havana.
Yes I despise the fact that they charge you for being solo , I wouldn’t have changed a single thing. This was on my bucket list and I am so happy I did it. It was amazing.
Life is experiences.
Take them! Have them!
LIFE!
I’ve gone to the UK twice as a solo traveler and was wondering if I could save some money if I did a solo cruise instead. I’m glad to have found your perspective. When it comes to that specific destination, I will always do my own planning because I have specific goals. I’m trying my first solo cruise soon (in the Caribbean) and opted for a fairly short one. I already know it’s costing me more than I would typically pay for a 5 day trip. I just wanted to try it to see if it is something I would like. I’m still really interested in a Cunard Transatlantic cruise just because I love the cultural aspect of it…I already know no one in my life is willing to do that with me so it will be a solo trip.
Can purchase last minute cruise deals. Can search on youtube how to find cheap cruise deals. Prices can be as low as 80percent.
Look into road scholar. It may be the type of adventures you are seeking. Over 50 and many interesting lectures and often offer single pricing
As I was reading the comments I was thinking of Road Scholar. Took 2 solo cruises through them on Celebrity and loved them. Smaller ships. That was before they changed 2 ownerships. But Road Scholar has so many other offerings from weekend to weeklong activities near and far. Sure to find something of interest. Unfortunately, now at 82 with health problems I cannot even do day trips. 🥲
My husband and I have taken 45 cruises since 1996. I retired early so I could travel.
One cruise line or several?
@@anda1anda2 Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.
@@Angiehere-1We have only been on 4 cruises since maybe 2002 - but they were in the order you wrote them above: 2 Hal, 1 transatlantic Royal Car, and 1 transpacific Celebrity, This fall I will be going solo in a NCL studio for a 2week transatlantic cruise which scares me a bit - but I really have liked sea days, and hope that there will be quiet things for me as an introvert to do. Celebrity had a choir and art "classes" - not really classes - they just put out art supplies and said we had 1.5 hours in the room.
I highly recommend Princess as well
@@itsagreatday8261 We have not sailed with Princess. We have heard nice things about them.
Oceania, on the smaller R class ships, are reported to have changed the obstructed view cabins that were wider because they lost depth from the lifeboats into solo rooms. I was in one of those rooms on Azamara, years ago, with 2 people. Indeed many believe that Oceania has made a good choice, based on configuration, for making these still smaller rooms into solo rooms. Those on cruise critics add that the bed should be reduced in width king to queen etc. to make a bit more floor space in the cabin. I haven’t been around Oceania long enough to know how solo friendly they really are. We were in a block of rooms but not really a group. The only solo I met was male and those experiences are just different. Crystal also used to have reduced solo rates. They even had dance partners for solo dancers. I have no idea what the new owners are doing though.
Although this is not the year to be in the Red Sea, Crystal has an April 2, with pre cruise option, to places most American cruiser have never explored. I really liked the itinerary but also think they’ve lost their minds with that itinerary😇.
Enjoyed this! Thanks!
I’ve cruised twice with friends. We share a ‘stateroom’ because the single supplement is a killer. I think it’s a great way of seeing a lot in a short time but as you say you don’t get a lot of time in each place. Last year I went on a group tour with the same friends to Turkey. Travel was by bus. 8 hotels in 12 nights. Single person supplement was reasonable. It would be great if you were going solo because the group was a mixture of couples and singles and people were very friendly. 😊
Did the same cruise as you as a solo last year £1800 but that included the drinks etc package otherwise it would have been £1400 . This was in an obstructed view window cabin ( part of a lifeboat in front and allowed light into the cabin)
I completely understand why cruising is not for you Jen but knowing how 'canny' you are and how you usually inform yourself so well, I am intrigued that you went ahead when you knew the solo supplement and excursion schedules. I did the Camino Frances two years ago and think you'd love that.
The Camino is on my bucket list!
THANK YOU! You are easy to listen to - calm!! I am a single solo traveler, over 60. I don’t love all that pampering - prefer to immerse myself in other places/countries. Might consider a repositioning cruise w/ a few stops - now that I have seen your video - maybe not.
Thanks so much! I'm not sure I would like a repositioning cruise, unless I took it to a destination where I had further plans to explore after the cruise. Great to hear from you!
❤
Am thinking that I might get too lonely, if I went solo.
I've never been on a cruise before, but am only interested in going to Alaska. I want to see more than just the ship.
Anyway, thanks for your insights.
The offshores are very expensive, when you have some experience you learn to choose better.
Big 5 South Africa. Now, that will give you material for your channell. Best time to visit is August. November till April is too hot. Wilderness Adventure awaits you. 5star Accommodation is available. Love your channel.
DEFINITELY on my list!
My friends and I visited South Africa in September and were absolutely frozen! 🥶The weather in Capetown was so cold and windy that the Robin Island Ferry foundered and partially sank and the passengers had to abandon ship. Luckily there was no loss of life. Lucky too that we weren’t on it having been unable to get a booking. 😂
I agree with your findings about cruising, not for me. How long did it take you to get your land legs back?
I would love to see more of Vancouver Island. I love exploring near and far way.
Very interesting vlog. I heard on another cruising channel that a major cruise line is charging a single supplement plus. It’s because solo cruisers don’t spend as much on board as two cruisers.
I *just * put up a video on that subject! Check it out and thanks for stopping by!
👁👁 Happy to drop by;
Went on a one and only cruse … Hated it…
Crowds ….lines ….😱 screaming little people …lounge chairs all taken pool side … constantly tipping…
More lines waiting… felt like cattle…! The same food buffet everyday … extra fees $$$$ for a nice dinner…on board …
15:06
Great insights Jen. I was hoping you’d talk a bit about how you found it being onboard as a solo traveller. Eg. Were there lots of other solo travellers or did you feel like the odd one out with loads of couples. Did you eat alone, or join other people’s tables? Was it easy to get chatting to people
I was super busy with excursions every day, and there were a few other solos on those. I mainly ate alone in the buffet, because that's what I prefer, but I chatted to people freely and everyone was very friendly and nice.
I don’t drink a lot so the drink package would be a waste of money. We usually get a wifi for one device and we share. WiFi is overpriced.
I don't like feeling like I'm being exploited, so would chose an alternative mode of transport or it could be possible to hook up with another solo traveller but again you are taking chance
Why not do it with a solo studio cabin? Then you wouldn’t have to pay double.
I don’t agree that you could have done a land-based tour for less money than the cruise cost. Hotels and trains are expensive.
did solo Alaska Cruise on Encore. I loved it, but you do have a point about the $$. I will do solo cruising as part of my vacation/retirement. They are expensive, solo or not. But there is value for sure. I am more Itinerary focused as well. These cruises are like a wine tasting, a little here and a little there. go back later for full story, so to speak. There are a few Bucket list cruises I have yet to do: Panama Cannel to name one. As I cruise more I will know how to make it more affordable, but it will never be the cheapest way to see a place.
There are so many bucket list cruises and so little funds... :(
My goal is to check off the things my bucket. I have found smaller ships are better. 650 passenger. No children!!
I have a bucket list too!
Interesting video! I would think that your love of solitude itself would conflict with going on a cruise?
Balance in everything. A cruise offers the opportunity to visit many ports and explore while having a nice safe place to spend the evenings.... :)
I don't like travelling anymore on expensive stuff. I rather watch you tube to see the world. It's basically free and without stress. This life is temporary anyway. Why go to get pampered and be dissapointed and even if pampered, you back to normal life. Pamper yourself at your house.