Have been cruising solo for 10 years since my husband passed. I have no problems dining alone-my Kindle is company enough. Could not care less if someone “looks at me funny.” Avoid specialty restaurants? Nope. I dare to dine solo in nice restaurants at home too.
@@TheWeekendCruiser so whats the trick to NOT paying a single supplement when booking a cruise? do you book a cabin for 2, and than pretend my friend just got sick in the last minute and cant make it?
@@petejames1326 Check out this video that walks you through my tactics. In rare cases, you may be charged MORE than 2 people as a solo. This is the only time you would want to create a "phantom" guest who no-shows the cruise. The no-show does not get a refund except of their port fees and taxes paid. ua-cam.com/video/AKleXOhHfgw/v-deo.html
I, too, did a solo cruise with a balcony and despite the cost I would do it again. And I did it for the same reasons you did - for my sanity and for the peace and quiet. The funny part is that I rarely went out on my balcony as I'm terrified of heights! LOL! But I loved it for the sunrises in the morning (southbound) and the sunsets at night (northbound) and for fresh air when in port.
The balcony is so worth the extra money IMO …. It’s nice to take a nap with the curtains open and not miss a moment. In fact, I spend most of my time in my room just enjoying the peace and quiet and the beautiful sea and I specifically love sunsets. Oh the moon 🌙!!! Heaven on earth!
Im a solo cruiser. I have zero problem eating by myself and rarely eat at the buffet. I dont worry about what other people think. My advice is to embrace solo travel as a wonderful experience and confidence builder. When Im traveling with someone else, I dont get the same experience of just being in the moment. Its nice to have a shared experience but Im happy to have my alone time. I also do not meet as many people.
Yes, that’s often true that it’s easier to meet more people if you’re solo because if you’re with someone you’re usually talking to that person and finding out what they want to do or telling, what you would like to do, in your own little bubble sometimes I think you do meet people if your two people or groups sometimes also.
Totally agree and you sound like a pro! Getting over the thought of what other people think is important to enjoying your cruise. Too many worry about this.
I also enjoy cruising solo. I also enjoy eating alone away from the buffet. Often people at neighboring tables will reach out, especially when the tables are set close together. If I want to talk I can, if not casual pleasantries are enough.
@TheWeekendCruiser everyone else is self-absorbed. Nobody else cares about you *except your waiter. No one else notices or caes that you are dining solo.
As a couple, we have met a few solo cruisers. We found there were many reasons that people were travelling solo. We usual strike up a simple conversation to see if they are looking to tag along with someone on an excursion or join for dinner or if they want to be alone. One person was a seasoned solo traveler and one was a first time solo traveler who's wife passed away after they had planned the trip. We also met a couple of ladies who were the life of the dinner table. They seemed like life long friends yet they had both just met as solo travelers. Thanks for sharing Brandon.
I've done four solo cruises. Two of them in Solo cabins on NCL. They have a great lounge and people get together for happy hour, then a group go to eat at a restaurant if you want. Have met people from 25 years old to 85 years old and had a great time on all.
As a late diagnosed autistic adult, I have accepted the fact that I am not a social person. Yes I do have friends, and yes I do love traveling and or cruising with a friend. However, I am not going to wait around for when my friends have time to come with me on a trip. Also, being autistic + loving cruising gives me unique perspective on cruising. I don’t care about eating by myself at a speciality dining restaurant, reading a book on my Kindle, and I do not drink, so you will not see me bar hopping. When I cruise, socializing is not my intent or priority. I am cruising because I love ships + being on the ocean! I’m also starting my own UA-cam channel on traveling on the autism spectrum. The name of my channel is Spectrum Wanderer
One cruise I was looking for a place to eat my burger at the outdoor grill. I saw an older man sitting by himself, I asked if I ould sit with him. We had a great conversation. I could tell he was so lonely and appreciated someone talking to him. I didn't see him again on the cruise, but just talking to someone made him feel so good....I am a talker so talking to others is not a problem. Next year will be my first B2B cruises with the longest one being 45 days. So excited to make 2024 my year of adventure.
Other people drive me crazy. I went to a special dinner activity and I thought that I would be among fellow foodies. Wrong. They hated half the food and knew nothing beyond burnt burgers ketchup and a tub of cool whip. No, the only people I want to talk are the crew and officers. The crew and officers spoil me rotten.
I met my husband on a solo cruise 25 years ago. It was the best vacation of my life. If he wasn’t around, I wouldn’t hesitate to go alone again. I love reading my Kindle and can enjoy my own company in any situation.
I’ve cruised 52 cruises by myself, I’ve been on 58 cruises total. Best way to cruise-you do what you want, eat when you want, and if you want to talk or share there are 2000-5000 people aboard to talk to. Don’t worry about how people look at you or what they think about you. It is unlikely that you will ever see those people again. Purchase during a sale where the second passenger is 60% off or second passenger free. On RCI, If you are counting points, then be sure to get a cabin for two passengers so that you get the double points. If you purchase a solo cabin and upgrade, then you will still only earn 1 point per not.
So I've seen these sales with like "70% off second person!" -- do you not need to actually book a second phantom person? Are these just another way of saying that the total room cost is only 1 person + 30% of the single fare, even if there's only a solo traveler? Like, are these the way that the single supplement deals are usually advertised as?
Just did 2 cruises solo in June, one was with Celebrity and didn't pay double oddly enough and the other cruise was Virgin Cruises, often times they have no single supplement fee. A lot of solo people go on Virgin Cruises, so if you're solo you will meet other people like I did and we did dinners and a catamaran excursion. Awesome times!
That is great to hear and will agree that Virgin does a great job of facilitating and leading activities for their solo cruisers. Really helps bring people together if that is what you are looking for.
I'm a solo traveler. I like to eat alone and in silence while I read from my phone. Usually, nobody talks to me, except for the crew. Sometimes I feel like a ghost, but that doesn't deters me from traveling.
I went on my first cruise ever a few weeks ago on Princess and was solo. I had a fabulous time. I did find the buffet a bit awkward when i wanted another course. Ended up deciding deliberately to choose different areas for each course rather than worry about my stuff. And while i enjoyed the lounges, i felt aware of being the only guy by himself. Didnt feel that way in the restaurants, including the specialty ones. But the lounges were a bit harder.
@peterlongo3343 I think most ships have at least one such lounge, at least with a TV showing sports. The equivalent of a sports bar. Also, the two Princess ships I've been on each had many bars with entertainment-- musicians, comedians, etc. There was always a place where one could sit at a bar and have something to watch.
Thanks Bradon for this video. I'm a solo traveler and to be honest, I have to choose my travel mates carefully. 😂 I dont like feeling rushed or having to accommodate what someone else wants. I've become quite content being single and traveling. My first cruise is next spring on HAL to Alaska. Then 2nd will be Cunard's new ship Queen Anne in Dec. Celebrity after that so i am trying more so to focus on the style of cruise i suit. Eating alone doesn't bother me at all. 😊
I travel a lot for business which means I eat alone in restaurants. You are right in the fact that the meal moves along quicker than when dining with others. Downside is the staff tries to sit you at the bar to save the table for groups. I used to feel awkward being alone but after a while I realized nobody was paying attention to me, or maybe I stopped caring. I am thinking about trying a cruise. My wife was never interested in cruising so I never thought about it. Might be interesting.
It is probably a mixture of getting used to it AND realizing no one cares. We always make it out to be this horrible thing and it really is just dinner by yourself. Nothing more :-)
Thanks for the advice! As an introvert who plans to travel and especially wants to cruise, this has helped. One step closer to booking that northern europe cruise now 😅
Love it!! I did a Baltic cruise out of Stockholm several years ago and it was AMAZING! Highly recommend and glad this video is helping get you in the mood!
My first solo cruise I was 100% anxious just like you are saying. I had been on like 8 cruises before but never solo and never before taken a solo vacation period. I booked an 8 night solo cruise on the Resilient Lady. It ended up being not only the best cruise I had ever been on but the best vacation I ever been. I met so many people I probably would never have bothered with if I wasn’t solo. I had an awesome time.
Cruised solo with NCL multiple times. Like the private lounge and dedicated activities director. Booked a solo cabin on the new NCL Aqua out of Miami for November 2025.
I cruised solo for the first time in Sep this year, and I mostly ate at speciality restaurants or the main dining room. I avoided eating at the buffet because there wasn't anyone I could leave behind to watch the table while I went off to get more food or drinks.
I went on my first solo cruise in Dec of 2019, and I’m going on my 6th in two weeks. It’s fun to go with others, but I love the fact that I’m 100% self-sufficient. I almost never go in the main dining rooms, but I’m doing the Specialty Steak house on this cruise, and I’m not nervous about it. I get my cruises for free through the casino, so I’m not too worried about the double occupancy. Thanks for another informative video!
How do you receive a free cruise through the casino, do you have to play and lose a certain amount of money or win a certain amount? And is it only on certain cruise lines if you don’t mind me asking ?
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 I’ve only cruised Carnival, but on there, you use your room card while gambling, and the level of free room you get depends on how much you played on the cruise. It can be different depending on the cruise line though.
That is the only way to do it! I’ve booked 15 cruises this year through the casino, only seven more to go through January. These complimentary cruises have helped me almost reach Pinnacle status…only need one more. I love the independence of traveling alone, and doing what I want to. And no one fussing about me spending time in the casino. And I have met some interesting people along the way. Good luck on your next cruise!
The great thing about solo cruising is you get to decide which mood you are in every second! There are a lot of folks who enjoy getting away and not meeting others and then some who are bored without it. I say keep your options open for both :-)
I have cruised three times solo with a the solo cabin on Norwegian. I think it was three different ships with Norwegian lines. I don’t like how small the cabins are really really small but I like how they empty to a lounge just for solos and it’s easier to meet people to go to lunch with etc. that are also solo. I like my time alone, sometimes with a book or an e-book or relaxing myself even eating breakfast alone but when I feel like it, I like the choice to go with another solo to lunch or dinner or entertainment at night to a show. Where one time I went with two other solos to Norwegians Caribbean small island, and I to rented a kayak there, and they did other things, but we met at the cocktail bar for drinks. We are still in touch with each other some of us.
Royal Caribbean does have solo cabins as well but sometimes it's better to utlize the group rate from your TA with your single supplement vs studio cabin.
I have cruise solo once, and I loved it! Normally, I cruise with a friend or girlfriend, and I always do my time dining, and I request a private table. On my solo cruise, I decided to be more open, so in the app I selected, I'm ok with sharing a table as the default. I only shared a table once during a seaday brunch and every other meal, I got a private table, lol 😂
I have done 4 solo cruises in the last 2 years. Getting ready to leave on Friday for another cruise, leaving out of Miami on Harmony of the Seas. The first was a little different, because I was figuring out all the Royal Caribbean nuances. After that not a big deal. My last cruise this past March was superb on Allure of the Seas. In the main Dining Room, I was part of a large table with 4 couples. It was great each night having dinner with them. Not everyone showed up each night, but there was enough that you had great conversations and a relaxing time.
Thank you so much for this video! I have 3 solo cruises booked next year. My first time solo cruising is January and it is a 10 day cruise.. maybe I should have started off with a shorter cruise😉. I am looking forward to being able to do whatever I want…whenever I want and not having to worry with someone else’s schedule.. wish me luck! 🍀
You are going to LOVE it and never want to cruise with anyone else again!!! Longer cruises are actually great for a solo trip! I find them to be more friendly and welcoming as you are in it for the long haul!
How did you find it? Couple of tips, I love easedropping. I alwyas take a real book with me. The other person often will start conversersation over that, so old fashioned (Me -73 yer old librrian, but happened when I was younger too. If I didn't particually care for the person, went back to my book!
Thanks Brandon, I like your videos. Always great tips and advice! Totally agree with you about large vs small ships. Last year on the Oasis I did not talk to a single person except 1 bartender and my husband. I didn't even realize it until after the cruise, but I was in my own little bubble and having a great time 'by myself'. Totally easy to get lost in the crowd on a big ship, and much easier to meet people on a smaller ship. Great tip!
I’m going on my first cruise ever and doing it solo! Long short story. I’m doing a belated birthday present my 70th to myself on a 7 day Caribbean Cruise on the Celebrity Apex. What a way to celebrate becoming a Septuagenarian! I like your advice for excursions. I hope I can find someone to take a beach horseback and swim excursion with me on Grand Caymen. Do they have bulletin boards to post things like that?
That is excellent and happy early birthday!!! No bulletin boards on cruise ships these days and if they have them, they are not well utilized. My mom who is a little bit older than you did a shore excursion by herself last week. She didn't know anyone going but once in the meeting point, she was quick to identify others she could chat with and buddy up to. Wound up having a blast and meeting another solo cruiser.
I actually met and made a friend eating breakfast as a solo passenger. It happened to be that it was very full and I asked if they minded if I sit at the table next to them, it was still very close as for two couples would sit there and we chatted and we had a connection and now it’s been three years or more since the cruise and we’re still in contact
I’m a consistent Solo Cruiser. Love your videos. Thanks for sharing all your experiences. Just turned D+ and talking to some friends about going on The Freedom. 🎉🎉🎉
haha that was not the intent of the video!! You should watch it again and feel more empowered this time to handle it knowing what to expect! Let us know how much of an awesome time you have!
Hey Brandon I been solo cruising about 2 years now on Royal just hit Diamond and I’m doing my first back to back cruise from Tampa to Boston and then Canada cruise. Never been on a cruise for 12 nights and then 7 more days. I have met a lot of people through just hanging out at the different bars on the ship. Gonna be diamond plus by February 2024 on my birthday cruise which is surprising fast since by then will be just my 10th cruise and staying in junior suites or solo cabins. Still hoping to get to Pinnacle by the time I’m 40 which by my count I might be there sooner then later. Made a lot of friends in the casino and comp cruises by making prime also. Hopefully sooner then later I will see you on a future cruise 🎉
I've done four Princess cruises with a friend, but this coming January I will be doing my first solo cruise, 10 days in the Caribbean. Honestly, I just wanted to get away for new year's... if I meet people, great. If I don't, fine... but it's not going to change what I do or how I do it.
My pleasure and one reason I make these videos is to help more people cruise solo and feel empowered! A good step too would be to come with us solo on a group cruise! This way, you get to experience solo travel but have a group to support you and hang out :-) www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruises
Take me with you!!! That is the old Empress of the Seas that I LOVE!!!! I could walk around that ship blind-folded! That cruise is a bucket list cruise for me to catch up and see how they converted her to the new market. Hope you have a blast and please send me pictures and let me know what you think!
Yeah, I took my Indian boy on a MSC cruise and he hid in my stateroom the whole time and didn't like the cruise food and just played on his phone. I saw a video of Cordelia and I think that might be better for some people not used to a fast western life.
Great advice. My honey and I really enjoyed meeting you this past weekend on Freedom of the Seas. You are very easy to talk to and very knowledgeable about the ship and cruising in general. Looking forward to more videos!
Most of it is caused by their deceptive marking practices to make the price appear lower per person. What I mean by this, if I was to have a hotel reservation, it is one, higher price. If I bring someone with me, it is still the same price but I can split the cost. Same concept with cruise ships except they price it by the person instead of by the room with a 2 person minimum. If they simply switched to saying "the room is $xxx' it would be the same thing. They just make us feel bad the way they market it and then charge even more than the extra person sometimes. Not sure what the answer is but with cruising continuing to be very popular, I don't see it changing anytime soon m:-(
I'm happy to have found your channel (while looking for a certain cruise ship's reviews) -- it's so interesting to me that solo travel is seen as so "uncommon" :-) I'm 65, female, and have traveled and lived solo since leaving everything and taking off at 43 years old with nothing. Lived in 10 countries so far and many cities within those countries -- Italy being the longest at about 18 years (even have written and published a book about all of this). The reason I'm commenting is to say I'm really glad to see content like this, especially solo cruising. I was looking at NCL for my upcoming cruise in a month but wasn't able to make it work financially (time of year) -- so I've chosen to give Costa another chance (after a 13 year break from them LOL but as I'm Italian and live here, nothing on board will surprise me!). All reasonings for solo cruising (and solo travel itself) are absolutely spot on. Never have I felt alone or lonely, have no qualms whatsoever about eating alone or chilling in a restaurant alone with my kindle or people watching and enjoying wine-and-food paring, etc. I think it's hysterical when people look at me strange for "daring to eat alone with everyone staring" or "oohhh poor woman, all alone" I just laugh LOL Eat whenever you want and wherever you want, for goodness sake! Be strong, ignore everyone, and go have that specialty restaurant stuff! I'm so happy also that many cruise lines have begun to lower their horridly expensive single supplements! I've subscribed...keep it up! Yeah I'd love to go on another small ship, like the 10-cabin dahabiya down the Nile that I did for my 60th birthday.... :-)
Take me with you on the nile cruise!!! That is on my bucket list! Thank you for your feedback Mariavano! It is really interesting you mention the age with solo cruising. I think most people assume it is younger whipper snappers but in reality, it is people with more life experience 60 and up but no one really focuses on that group! I might see what I can do in some videos ;-)
@@TheWeekendCruiser Come on, let's go! I'm thinking about taking the cruise again later this year -- it was THAT amazing and life-changing! check out Nour El Nil, you'll so want to do it! 😀😀
I love to cruise solo, and sometimes prefer it to going with a friend. I love to do what I want, when I want. I've gone to specialty restaurants and the Chef's Table as a solo and it's always been great. Do you have a website to help find the charter/specialty cruises?
Hey Carole, I have often thought there should be a website that catalogues charters or specialty cruises but I have never heard of one. Not sure it is collected anywhere.
Thank you for the great content. Celebrity edge (sydney great barrier reef) does not charge extra for veranda solo/ 2025 great barrier reef ). Looking into it but still intimidated by all the "extras" which are not included with most cruises, not even water or wifi. I usually do land trips which include more amenities in the base price and never charge double for a solo; it's usually a bit more such as 20-25% more for having my own room, which I believe is justified.
@@TheWeekendCruiser For me, it's part of the trip anxiety; the unknown. Loss of control as in you are forcing me to tip before anything even happens? I don't want random people in my room AT ALL during any trip. No thanks. So I would need to pay for that yet refuse it anyway?
Great video but I can't entirely agree with one point. I always recommend specialty dining for solo cruisers. Request a table near the kitchen and watch the chefs at work ( many specialty restaurants have an open- view of the kitchen.) If you catch a chef's eye, they might even send out a treat, just for you. The waitstaff is always the most attractive and outgoing on the ship and will be extra friendly because they don't have to worry about interrupting a family or couple's conversation and just have one person's needs to focus on. Solo cruising is wonderful.
Thank you and that is a good tip! I agree, I am a huge fan of chatting with the crew and enjoying their company. That and they also know that I am going to be in and out when it comes to food. 30 min and under here!
I have been on eight cruises on seven different lines. I think that the worst to go solo would be NCL as they will NOT sit you with others. I go on cruises to meet others and honestly, we have cruise couples visit us and contact us frequently.
Hey Max! I should see if I can talk to some folks who cruise solo and are over 65. That would be a great video! I know a LOT of solo cruisers are over the age of 65, not uncommon at all!
Thanks for this video. I was just on a family cruise a few weeks ago, and went to a travel agent today to plan my first solo cruise for March. Good points made in this video, and definitely put some of my apprehensions at ease!
I have to make a conscious effort to eat really early or just before closing to avoid the crowds. The large ships have more dining options. I'm not feeling this need for community that you feel. I have no reason to initiate a conversation with anyone. I just want to blend in with the throngs of passengers and do my vacation. Not somebody else's.
I totally get that Will! I actually go through phases with my needing to be part of a community. Some days, I am all in and others, I need my space! Thanks for sharing your solo journeys for others to see it can be exactly what you make of it!
I am rather a formal person but not an unfriendly person . I have traveled solo on Cunard Queen Mary and on Seabourn Encore and Oceana Marina. All had singles meeting hours but I did not like them . Oceana Marina was unpleasant but on the Queen Mary and Encore I let the Maitre D place me where he thought best for me for dinner but if I was to eat alone I always asked for a table against a wall . Breakfast and Lunch are not a problem as there are many people eating solo .
That is great and you are taking some cruises I hope to one day be able to try! Agreed with breakfast and lunch being easier. Dinner can get a little tricky or awkward if you get in your head but once you have done it a few times, it becomes second nature!
I was on oasis of the seas in May. I went as a solo cruiser. And I eat in the dining room. I agree it is a little bit awkward, however, the people on both sides of me we were talk sometimes they were there a couple nights in a row.
Me encantan tus videos. Por favor poner subtítulos en español, serían de mucha utilidad a los que amamos los cruceros, gracias y felicidades por tus videos
¡Disculpas porque tenía poco tiempo! Los subtítulos en inglés se han agregado y ahora deberían traducirse automáticamente al español. ¡Gracias por el empujón!
lol. That’s me. I always talk to the solo cruiser at dinner. If it stops after a few minutes that’s fine, if we continue through the meal that’s great. My husband does not talk at mealtime so I’m at a table for 2 people but actually solo
Sounds like you are approaching it correctly Linda! Anyone will be kind and cordial but you normally pretty quickly learn they are open to further conversation. Maybe when you meet people around the ship, you could invite them to join you for dinner and continue the conversation?
Sounds like you are a dependent person type, nothing wrong with that. Personally I prefer traveling alone so much less hassle. I've no problem meeting and enjoying conversation with people or being by myself. Thanks for the tip about cruiseplum looks to be what I was looking for.
This is very true! Though, us solo folks are everywhere!! But do feel Virgin Voyages gets a strong number of solo folks. Also, read they have 40 solo cabins which is crazy!
Sure can! It is Nov 3, 2023 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral for a 3 night, weekend sailing!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! If you can't make this one, there will be more! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
Hey Jeff! It is Nov 3, 2023 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral for a 3 night, weekend sailing!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
I have been on on hosted singles cruises and met a lot of good friends. I also went alone and had no problems. What do you think of hosted singles cruises? They plan different get togethers and excursions but you don't have to go with them if you don't like it. There are different age groups and ones open to anyone.
I am certainly a fan of anything that helps people feel more comfortable or have a better time cruising! I have not had the chance to attend a solo cruise hosted by someone but one day, do home to host one myself!
I looked at several solo cruising options last year (my partner is still working and he really isn't a fan of cruise ships) and found it affordable -- UNTIL I priced the airfare and hotel. If you don't live near a cruise port (not a Florida resident), those extra costs can be very prohibitive.
Hi Bally! You have some options on what your dinning options are. I think the biggest item comes down to how comfortable you are to eating by yourself or if you prefer to eat with others. If eating with others, just head to the matre de and let them know and they will accomdiate. Otherwise, watch this video here that talks about how to build your solo cruising confidence ua-cam.com/video/diw2BK3pOeY/v-deo.html
I agree with you. For first time cruisers who are also sailing solo, I think they need to know what each cruise line and ship offers. On solo forums the most common question is, “What’s the best cruise for a solo cruiser?” I think there is a common misunderstanding that all cruises are the same, so one is just like another.
hmmm, let me see if I can work that into a video. I am really on familiar with RCL, MSC, Celebrity, and Virgin's offerings. I have read a lot about NCL but have not experienced it to give first hand lessons or advice but I like your thought!
@@TheWeekendCruiser along the same lines, not all solo travelers are the same. Some seek out other solos, some enjoy being on there own, some like to have options. For me, I like being on my own so I’m not so good helping people know about solo meetups etc.
I used to dine by myself I don’t want to talk to anyone else mindless chatter. My first cruise solo this weekend is gonna be chilled week less talking works for me. I’m excited but nervous to see if I like it.
I've never been on a cruise. I'd be solo. My big issue is I'm pretty shy, I don't like large groups of people and I'm terrible at small talk. I have no idea why I'd even consider a cruise haha but this video helped. A couple of drinks would relax me but I can't quit at a couple so I'd end up drinking too much then feeling like crap the next couple of days. Why is life so hard lol
Great vid. At no point did you tell us what ship you were sailing on. That drove me nuts. Ha ha. I cruised solo on Voyager OTS a year back. RCCL disappointed me because they moved me from late dining (which I chose so that they'd seat me at a table with people) to my time, so I ended up dining by myself, wearing a suit both formal nights.
Thanks for the info and this may be a stupid question but how can I ensure to keep my seat if day I have to use restroom or wanna get up and dance.. and any tips on protecting my drinks? FYI I will be going on my first solo
I unfortunately do not have any tips there. I've tried a few different ways, even leaving my cell phone by the drink and it doesn't seem to work. Maybe if you put a napkin on top? It is definitely one of the downfalls of solo cruising is always losing your plate in the buffet and drinks.
@@thanjawI was thinking about that on a recent HAL cruise. I am thinking of printing up a small card, laminating it, and placing it on the table. I am b2b cruises in September and might try it then.
That actually sounds like a great idea, might try that one myself. I also thought about carrying a sweater and leaving on the chair, lol nothing fancy just a little “hey someone is here” thing. Please let me know how the card works out…. Thank you
Hey Anna! It is Nov 3 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
Been on one solo cruise. It was different from when I went with my wife. There are some cruise lines I won't cruise on. Two bad experiences and others have cut back on services.. Solo staterooms are very tiny. Use Vacations To Go. My late wife went on Empress of the Seas in it's inaugural season. If you eat alone you could get finished faster. Like to eat in the MDR. Could have a picture of my wife at the table. My first solo cruise was on the Enchanted Princess. Don't really care if I meet someone or not. Very rarely make friends. More people are friendly in the casino. Some places I have been to many times and know where I want to go. No shore excursion.
I find I am more outgoing when I travel solo. When traveling with others, I tend not to talk to everyone that I do when I go solo. I have no problem eating solo in the MDR. Eating with others might take two hours vs maybe 45 minutes...it all depends on the schedule you want to keep.
Absolutely! When you are with even one more person, you are unintentionally insular and don't meet as many others. When solo, it opens up an entirely new world!
Aww I am not!! I am venturing out in October and playing cruise line roulette almost! Scarlet Lady, MSC Seaside, RCL Indy, and Celebrity Summit. A different cruise line each weekend!
Great question! I am not sure though I feel comfortable weighing in on this as I have not really examined cruise lines for their accessibility. Here is a video I made of an ambulatory room on Virgin Voyages where I list several other UA-cam channels of people who can better speak to this topic. ua-cam.com/video/e2O5F4_-swQ/v-deo.html
I’m not so sure lounging by the pool is the best way to meet someone unless it’s an adults only cruise because it’s mostly in general children running around. Although one time when I was cruising across Atlantic, I went to the pool and most people didn’t go because it was a cold climate, and I met a very nice woman from Ireland.
It does! It is Nov 3, 2023 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral for a 3 night, weekend sailing!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
I met someone at trivial almost by accident. I was just walking by the trivia game on the way to someplace else, but not in a hurry and I noticed people were talking over the question and I said a little bit out loud that that’s definitely not the answer it is this and a mother and her two children invited me to her table, and I had a nice time playing with the mother and two children, even though I never saw them again except to say hi. It was a nice game.
Thanks for posting this. I've been considering a solo cruise around Japan. Celebrity has a great itinerary but I've found they're chwrging way more than double occupancy for solo travelers. What's your experience been with Celebrity as a solo traveler? I can swallow paying double, but another 50% on top of that i can't justify 😢
I would say get a good travel agent who might know how to work the system. You can do a "phantom" second person and get the lower pricing. I would not pay more than 200% single supplement as I don't want to go where I am not wanted. If i am able to book a solo/studio cabin, that is a different story but those are limited on Celebrity.
Ha, oh boy have I! Believe I hit pinnacle in August of 2021. With the double points promotion last year, I am currently at 1,530 points with Crown & Anchor. Will slow down some as I venture to other cruise lines with less robust programs.
Just discovered you and your channel. While I have done a loy of group travel, I am a huge fan of solo travel (land and cruise). Thanks for the helpful, interesting info!
I think solo women get looked at more than solo men. Perhaps because as you said they can’t imagine themselves doing that. I’ve met a few solo widows. I was in the loyalty club waiting for hubby to finish his chapter! That made me seem more approachable. And, she volunteered she was widowed twice! She was traveling with friends but they weren’t eligible for the event. Great recommendations … in one of my early jobs involved traveling solo, and yes it takes practice. What was most annoying was the restaurants at that time were not necessarily welcoming ….. clearly not the same on a cruise!
@@WestCoastCultured I used to get “Dinner for just one.” I always turned around to see who they might think might be “more”. In this day and age most have finally learned to say dinner for how many. I do remember teaching a hostess that the latter was much nicer and much less sexist! I suggest for the really arrogant that yes you could have found someone but your prefer or chose, depending how snarky you want to be, your own company! You could also answer by telling them where your friends are etc. New Mexico? Facebook? Unfortunately it was mostly my grandmother that asked me about where my boyfriend was as she just knew I would need a husband to take care of me! And she would say that knowing I had be able to visit her because I was out of town on business near where she was. Men when solo are asked what business brings them there if they are in a hotel restaurant.
@@WestCoastCultured When I travel alone, doesn’t it matter if it’s a cruise or otherwise I’ve never had someone ask, where are my friends, family, spouse then again I am older, so maybe it’s not the same as if you’re 20 or 30 years old.
@@TheWeekendCruiser you might really enjoy reading the Gift of Fear., a lot of the examples are of women but does explain how macho can be a bad thing! The Challenge of being Single gives you more insight into what you thought wasn’t being slighted but is. But, my experiences are now pretty old, although cruise ships still want to know if you are waiting for the person they last say you with! When I first travelled for business I had a waitress ignore my attempts to pay my breakfast bill because the men need to get to work, soon! And, a colleague who had already been in the hotel for a week, and eating in their restaurants, one night was told they didn’t seat unescorted women, after 6! Yes, turns out they had a hooker problem but it was a nice restaurant and she should have been asked if she was a guest first. Lots of other examples, but fortunately, the times they are a changing … sometimes not fast enough though😇
Depends on the cruise line. Celebrity, Royal, NCL definitely give double points. I'm honestly not sure if Virgin does as they have recently changed their program.
I loved this video and quite a few of suggestions given are top notch. HOWEVER, as someone of color - as a solo traveler, you are ALWAYS viewed by the other passengers with suspicion. Striking up conversations is like pulling teeth. I have even been at larger tables in the dining room where, after the first meeting, the original diners don’t show up! (If you’re an attractive woman of color… no problem. But a single man of color - solo cruising can be a challenge.) Don’t get me wrong, I love cruising….but, it can be challenging.
Thank you and you are spot on with your comment! And thank you for sharing this perspective as it provides good insight for me and others of color who are watching this video. If you do not already follow @SIGCruiser www.youtube.com/@SIGCruiser she is a solo cruiser of color who loves sharing her experience. I'm a big fan.
ALSO!!! I almost forget, came back to the comment to add this. Always feel free to join us on a group cruise! We are a great group that is about 50% solo folks and we do not stop talking the entire time! Just announced one on last night's live for Quantum of the Seas out of Los Angeles on Quantum of the Seas on Nov 14, 2025. We have SEVERAL studio rooms reserved to help keep the cost down for us! Group Cruise Email Sign-Up! www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruise-sign-up Group Cruise Options & How to Register: www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruises
Rule #1 for solo cruisers...all strangers are just friends you haven't met yet. Be open to eating with new people. Be willing to chat to people sitting near you. Don't be aggressive, but be friendly. Go to the singles get together. You might find a person who would like to hang out. Take advantage of the entertainment. The lights are low...no one knows you're on your own. Excursions together are fun.
Love your Rule #1. I always say, if you want to meet people, just start saying hello and acknowledging the person beside of you exist. Don't over complicate it!
I have not tried Viking but I would LOVE to go on one of their river cruises. They have a strong fan base and following and are well respected with their ocean liners and river cruises.
My experience is that trying to eat solo in buffet is almost impossible. Tables are usually occupied by others and they DON'T want you to share with them or they will let you share begrudgingly. Solo buffet is not a happy experience.
I find that eating solo in the Buffet it’s very crowded at certain times but if you go earlier or later than most people, it’s not a problem. one time I actually made a friend when it was another solo that I sat with
Agree with the other commenter here - it can be tough when the buffet is packed and def more an issue on longer sailings. Off times might be your best bet.
Have been cruising solo for 10 years since my husband passed. I have no problems dining alone-my Kindle is company enough. Could not care less if someone “looks at me funny.” Avoid specialty restaurants? Nope. I dare to dine solo in nice restaurants at home too.
Absolutely, I too have been sailing solo for years. It’s fantastic.
I love it Maria! Sounds like you are very comfortable with cruising solo! Thank you for commenting so others can see how it is done!
@@TheWeekendCruiser so whats the trick to NOT paying a single supplement when booking a cruise? do you book a cabin for 2, and than pretend my friend just got sick in the last minute and cant make it?
@@petejames1326 Check out this video that walks you through my tactics. In rare cases, you may be charged MORE than 2 people as a solo. This is the only time you would want to create a "phantom" guest who no-shows the cruise. The no-show does not get a refund except of their port fees and taxes paid. ua-cam.com/video/AKleXOhHfgw/v-deo.html
@TheWeekendCruiser she's right who cares if people look at you funny! Lol I have been doing everything alone my whole life
Solo cruiser with balcony on my own…love it. It’s far too expensive as we pay for two which sucks. But, it’s for my sanity - peace and quiet
I, too, did a solo cruise with a balcony and despite the cost I would do it again. And I did it for the same reasons you did - for my sanity and for the peace and quiet. The funny part is that I rarely went out on my balcony as I'm terrified of heights! LOL! But I loved it for the sunrises in the morning (southbound) and the sunsets at night (northbound) and for fresh air when in port.
Boycott all supplements!
💯🎯
The balcony is so worth the extra money IMO …. It’s nice to take a nap with the curtains open and not miss a moment. In fact, I spend most of my time in my room just enjoying the peace and quiet and the beautiful sea and I specifically love sunsets. Oh the moon 🌙!!! Heaven on earth!
Im a solo cruiser. I have zero problem eating by myself and rarely eat at the buffet. I dont worry about what other people think. My advice is to embrace solo travel as a wonderful experience and confidence builder. When Im traveling with someone else, I dont get the same experience of just being in the moment. Its nice to have a shared experience but Im happy to have my alone time. I also do not meet as many people.
Yes, that’s often true that it’s easier to meet more people if you’re solo because if you’re with someone you’re usually talking to that person and finding out what they want to do or telling, what you would like to do, in your own little bubble sometimes I think you do meet people if your two people or groups sometimes also.
Totally agree and you sound like a pro! Getting over the thought of what other people think is important to enjoying your cruise. Too many worry about this.
I also enjoy cruising solo. I also enjoy eating alone away from the buffet. Often people at neighboring tables will reach out, especially when the tables are set close together. If I want to talk I can, if not casual pleasantries are enough.
@TheWeekendCruiser everyone else is self-absorbed. Nobody else cares about you *except your waiter. No one else notices or caes that you are dining solo.
As a couple, we have met a few solo cruisers. We found there were many reasons that people were travelling solo. We usual strike up a simple conversation to see if they are looking to tag along with someone on an excursion or join for dinner or if they want to be alone. One person was a seasoned solo traveler and one was a first time solo traveler who's wife passed away after they had planned the trip. We also met a couple of ladies who were the life of the dinner table. They seemed like life long friends yet they had both just met as solo travelers. Thanks for sharing Brandon.
I've done four solo cruises. Two of them in Solo cabins on NCL. They have a great lounge and people get together for happy hour, then a group go to eat at a restaurant if you want. Have met people from 25 years old to 85 years old and had a great time on all.
As a late diagnosed autistic adult, I have accepted the fact that I am not a social person. Yes I do have friends, and yes I do love traveling and or cruising with a friend. However, I am not going to wait around for when my friends have time to come with me on a trip. Also, being autistic + loving cruising gives me unique perspective on cruising. I don’t care about eating by myself at a speciality dining restaurant, reading a book on my Kindle, and I do not drink, so you will not see me bar hopping. When I cruise, socializing is not my intent or priority. I am cruising because I love ships + being on the ocean! I’m also starting my own UA-cam channel on traveling on the autism spectrum. The name of my channel is Spectrum Wanderer
Thank you for starting a UA-cam channel on this topic and sharing your cruise ship experience! Can't wait to see some of your videos!
One cruise I was looking for a place to eat my burger at the outdoor grill. I saw an older man sitting by himself, I asked if I ould sit with him. We had a great conversation. I could tell he was so lonely and appreciated someone talking to him. I didn't see him again on the cruise, but just talking to someone made him feel so good....I am a talker so talking to others is not a problem. Next year will be my first B2B cruises with the longest one being 45 days. So excited to make 2024 my year of adventure.
Awww that is a great story!
Other people drive me crazy. I went to a special dinner activity and I thought that I would be among fellow foodies. Wrong. They hated half the food and knew nothing beyond burnt burgers ketchup and a tub of cool whip. No, the only people I want to talk are the crew and officers. The crew and officers spoil me rotten.
I met my husband on a solo cruise 25 years ago. It was the best vacation of my life. If he wasn’t around, I wouldn’t hesitate to go alone again. I love reading my Kindle and can enjoy my own company in any situation.
haha, if you met your husband I would hope it was your best cruise ever!!! Well done!
I’ve cruised 52 cruises by myself, I’ve been on 58 cruises total. Best way to cruise-you do what you want, eat when you want, and if you want to talk or share there are 2000-5000 people aboard to talk to. Don’t worry about how people look at you or what they think about you. It is unlikely that you will ever see those people again.
Purchase during a sale where the second passenger is 60% off or second passenger free. On RCI, If you are counting points, then be sure to get a cabin for two passengers so that you get the double points. If you purchase a solo cabin and upgrade, then you will still only earn 1 point per not.
Great advice!!
Wow I'm really impressed!!
So I've seen these sales with like "70% off second person!" -- do you not need to actually book a second phantom person? Are these just another way of saying that the total room cost is only 1 person + 30% of the single fare, even if there's only a solo traveler? Like, are these the way that the single supplement deals are usually advertised as?
Just did 2 cruises solo in June, one was with Celebrity and didn't pay double oddly enough and the other cruise was Virgin Cruises, often times they have no single supplement fee. A lot of solo people go on Virgin Cruises, so if you're solo you will meet other people like I did and we did dinners and a catamaran excursion. Awesome times!
That is great to hear and will agree that Virgin does a great job of facilitating and leading activities for their solo cruisers. Really helps bring people together if that is what you are looking for.
I'm a solo traveler. I like to eat alone and in silence while I read from my phone. Usually, nobody talks to me, except for the crew. Sometimes I feel like a ghost, but that doesn't deters me from traveling.
Thanks for sharing! Everyone is different in their level of engagement and receptive to it. If I see you onboard, I will say hello :-)
I’m married, but my husband isn’t a big fan of cruising, so I go for short cruises by myself once in a while.
Love it!! That sounds like the perfect relationship! I truly think tat is a very healthy thing to do.
I went on my first cruise ever a few weeks ago on Princess and was solo. I had a fabulous time. I did find the buffet a bit awkward when i wanted another course. Ended up deciding deliberately to choose different areas for each course rather than worry about my stuff. And while i enjoyed the lounges, i felt aware of being the only guy by himself. Didnt feel that way in the restaurants, including the specialty ones. But the lounges were a bit harder.
Question- im debating on a solo cruise myself…. Bar seating with tvs where i can just have a few drinks at the bar watch whatever is on tv?
@peterlongo3343 I think most ships have at least one such lounge, at least with a TV showing sports. The equivalent of a sports bar. Also, the two Princess ships I've been on each had many bars with entertainment-- musicians, comedians, etc. There was always a place where one could sit at a bar and have something to watch.
@@abrahamclott5604 thank you!
Thanks Bradon for this video. I'm a solo traveler and to be honest, I have to choose my travel mates carefully. 😂 I dont like feeling rushed or having to accommodate what someone else wants. I've become quite content being single and traveling. My first cruise is next spring on HAL to Alaska. Then 2nd will be Cunard's new ship Queen Anne in Dec. Celebrity after that so i am trying more so to focus on the style of cruise i suit. Eating alone doesn't bother me at all. 😊
You are going to be a solo cruise expert in no time!!! Those sound like some great adventures!
I travel a lot for business which means I eat alone in restaurants. You are right in the fact that the meal moves along quicker than when dining with others. Downside is the staff tries to sit you at the bar to save the table for groups. I used to feel awkward being alone but after a while I realized nobody was paying attention to me, or maybe I stopped caring. I am thinking about trying a cruise. My wife was never interested in cruising so I never thought about it. Might be interesting.
It is probably a mixture of getting used to it AND realizing no one cares. We always make it out to be this horrible thing and it really is just dinner by yourself. Nothing more :-)
But if looking at doing a solo vacation somewhere, cruise ships are a great way to start as they make everything easy!
Love to go solo. Also cruise with friends, but always have my own room.
I cruise solo often...yes Trivia is perfect for meeting people...plus the Diamond Lounge
Diamond Lounge is a great spot too!! At least you will have a love of cruising in common!
Thanks for the advice! As an introvert who plans to travel and especially wants to cruise, this has helped. One step closer to booking that northern europe cruise now 😅
Love it!! I did a Baltic cruise out of Stockholm several years ago and it was AMAZING! Highly recommend and glad this video is helping get you in the mood!
@@TheWeekendCruiser
My first solo cruise I was 100% anxious just like you are saying. I had been on like 8 cruises before but never solo and never before taken a solo vacation period. I booked an 8 night solo cruise on the Resilient Lady. It ended up being not only the best cruise I had ever been on but the best vacation I ever been. I met so many people I probably would never have bothered with if I wasn’t solo. I had an awesome time.
That is such a great story and thank you for sharing!
Love this! Thanks for sharing 😊
Cruised solo with NCL multiple times. Like the private lounge and dedicated activities director. Booked a solo cabin on the new NCL Aqua out of Miami for November 2025.
I cruised solo for the first time in Sep this year, and I mostly ate at speciality restaurants or the main dining room. I avoided eating at the buffet because there wasn't anyone I could leave behind to watch the table while I went off to get more food or drinks.
Ooh - thanks for the insight!
I went on my first solo cruise in Dec of 2019, and I’m going on my 6th in two weeks. It’s fun to go with others, but I love the fact that I’m 100% self-sufficient. I almost never go in the main dining rooms, but I’m doing the Specialty Steak house on this cruise, and I’m not nervous about it. I get my cruises for free through the casino, so I’m not too worried about the double occupancy. Thanks for another informative video!
How do you receive a free cruise through the casino, do you have to play and lose a certain amount of money or win a certain amount? And is it only on certain cruise lines if you don’t mind me asking ?
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 I’ve only cruised Carnival, but on there, you use your room card while gambling, and the level of free room you get depends on how much you played on the cruise. It can be different depending on the cruise line though.
That is the only way to do it! I’ve booked 15 cruises this year through the casino, only seven more to go through January. These complimentary cruises have helped me almost reach Pinnacle status…only need one more. I love the independence of traveling alone, and doing what I want to. And no one fussing about me spending time in the casino. And I have met some interesting people along the way. Good luck on your next cruise!
Thank you! Yes, once you start solo cruising, it is sometimes tough to re-acclimate to cruising with folks! 😂
How much to you have to pay the casino for those "free" cruises?
Never did solo but open to the idea. I'm an introvert at heart but willingly to open up to ppl. with positive energy.
The great thing about solo cruising is you get to decide which mood you are in every second! There are a lot of folks who enjoy getting away and not meeting others and then some who are bored without it. I say keep your options open for both :-)
I have cruised three times solo with a the solo cabin on Norwegian. I think it was three different ships with Norwegian lines.
I don’t like how small the cabins are really really small but I like how they empty to a lounge just for solos and it’s easier to meet people to go to lunch with etc. that are also solo.
I like my time alone, sometimes with a book or an e-book or relaxing myself even eating breakfast alone but when I feel like it, I like the choice to go with another solo to lunch or dinner or entertainment at night to a show.
Where one time I went with two other solos to Norwegians Caribbean small island, and I to rented a kayak there, and they did other things, but we met at the cocktail bar for drinks. We are still in touch with each other some of us.
Royal Caribbean does have solo cabins as well but sometimes it's better to utlize the group rate from your TA with your single supplement vs studio cabin.
Have to do your homework! I have often found studio cabins are not as good of a price as a normal cabin my TA can offer too!
I have cruise solo once, and I loved it! Normally, I cruise with a friend or girlfriend, and I always do my time dining, and I request a private table. On my solo cruise, I decided to be more open, so in the app I selected, I'm ok with sharing a table as the default. I only shared a table once during a seaday brunch and every other meal, I got a private table, lol 😂
Super helpful info, about to embark on my first solo cruise next month and so happy to have these tips!!
TY for the cruiseplum tip!!
I have done 4 solo cruises in the last 2 years. Getting ready to leave on Friday for another cruise, leaving out of Miami on Harmony of the Seas. The first was a little different, because I was figuring out all the Royal Caribbean nuances. After that not a big deal. My last cruise this past March was superb on Allure of the Seas. In the main Dining Room, I was part of a large table with 4 couples. It was great each night having dinner with them. Not everyone showed up each night, but there was enough that you had great conversations and a relaxing time.
I'm going on a cruise in October by myself, and I can't wait :)!
Have a blast!
Thank you so much for this video! I have 3 solo cruises booked next year. My first time solo cruising is January and it is a 10 day cruise.. maybe I should have started off with a shorter cruise😉. I am looking forward to being able to do whatever I want…whenever I want and not having to worry with someone else’s schedule.. wish me luck! 🍀
You are going to LOVE it and never want to cruise with anyone else again!!! Longer cruises are actually great for a solo trip! I find them to be more friendly and welcoming as you are in it for the long haul!
How did you find it? Couple of tips, I love easedropping. I alwyas take a real book with me. The other person often will start conversersation over that, so old fashioned (Me -73 yer old librrian, but happened when I was younger too. If I didn't particually care for the person, went back to my book!
Thanks Brandon, I like your videos. Always great tips and advice! Totally agree with you about large vs small ships. Last year on the Oasis I did not talk to a single person except 1 bartender and my husband. I didn't even realize it until after the cruise, but I was in my own little bubble and having a great time 'by myself'. Totally easy to get lost in the crowd on a big ship, and much easier to meet people on a smaller ship. Great tip!
I’m going on my first cruise ever and doing it solo! Long short story. I’m doing a belated birthday present my 70th to myself on a 7 day Caribbean Cruise on the Celebrity Apex. What a way to celebrate becoming a Septuagenarian! I like your advice for excursions. I hope I can find someone to take a beach horseback and swim excursion with me on Grand Caymen. Do they have bulletin boards to post things like that?
That is excellent and happy early birthday!!! No bulletin boards on cruise ships these days and if they have them, they are not well utilized. My mom who is a little bit older than you did a shore excursion by herself last week. She didn't know anyone going but once in the meeting point, she was quick to identify others she could chat with and buddy up to. Wound up having a blast and meeting another solo cruiser.
I'm thrilled I found this video... Answered a lot of my concerns thank you...
Hopefully, it helped you feel impowered to book your first one!
Thanks for the advice! Going on my first solo cruise on Freedom this Oct/Nov, really looking forward to it.
I actually met and made a friend eating breakfast as a solo passenger. It happened to be that it was very full and I asked if they minded if I sit at the table next to them, it was still very close as for two couples would sit there and we chatted and we had a connection and now it’s been three years or more since the cruise and we’re still in contact
I love this so much! Going on my first solo cruise (solo travel, full stop!) next month and can’t wait 😊
I’m a consistent Solo Cruiser. Love your videos. Thanks for sharing all your experiences. Just turned D+ and talking to some friends about going on The Freedom. 🎉🎉🎉
That is awesome and thank you!! Congrats on D+!! Next stop, Pinnacle!
I would love to try singles cruise
I’m going on my first solo cruise in four weeks and can’t wait! (Weirdly, I feel slightly *more* nervous after watching this 😅)
I`ve done 8 solo cruises and loved them all. Next solo cruise in 3 weeks on NCL Escape.
haha that was not the intent of the video!! You should watch it again and feel more empowered this time to handle it knowing what to expect! Let us know how much of an awesome time you have!
Hey Brandon I been solo cruising about 2 years now on Royal just hit Diamond and I’m doing my first back to back cruise from Tampa to Boston and then Canada cruise. Never been on a cruise for 12 nights and then 7 more days. I have met a lot of people through just hanging out at the different bars on the ship. Gonna be diamond plus by February 2024 on my birthday cruise which is surprising fast since by then will be just my 10th cruise and staying in junior suites or solo cabins. Still hoping to get to Pinnacle by the time I’m 40 which by my count I might be there sooner then later. Made a lot of friends in the casino and comp cruises by making prime also. Hopefully sooner then later I will see you on a future cruise 🎉
You will be there in no time Willy!! I honestly believe Pinnacle snuck up on me!
You must have read my mind. I was just thinking of hopping on the Liberty of the Seas next month solo. Great info in your video.
Liberty is great but I would highly recommend Freedom ;-)
On an Alaskan cruise right now on ovation of the seas and have ran into a lot of solo cruisers
I've done four Princess cruises with a friend, but this coming January I will be doing my first solo cruise, 10 days in the Caribbean. Honestly, I just wanted to get away for new year's... if I meet people, great. If I don't, fine... but it's not going to change what I do or how I do it.
That's a great way to look at it!
Thank you for the tips! Am going on my first solo cruise in July. Very used to it but will be my longest time away so a bit nervous. Great tips!
Hope you have a blast Emily!! You will love it! If you havn't already, watch this video too to help you! ua-cam.com/video/diw2BK3pOeY/v-deo.html
I love cruises but have not been on my own for so many years . Thanks for your video on cruising as a single person.
My pleasure and one reason I make these videos is to help more people cruise solo and feel empowered! A good step too would be to come with us solo on a group cruise! This way, you get to experience solo travel but have a group to support you and hang out :-) www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruises
I am a solo traveller and booked my first cruise on Cordelia Cruise in India (Chennai-Trincomallee-Chennai) 12-15 July 2024.
Take me with you!!! That is the old Empress of the Seas that I LOVE!!!! I could walk around that ship blind-folded! That cruise is a bucket list cruise for me to catch up and see how they converted her to the new market. Hope you have a blast and please send me pictures and let me know what you think!
Yeah, I took my Indian boy on a MSC cruise and he hid in my stateroom the whole time and didn't like the cruise food and just played on his phone. I saw a video of Cordelia and I think that might be better for some people not used to a fast western life.
Great advice. My honey and I really enjoyed meeting you this past weekend on Freedom of the Seas. You are very easy to talk to and very knowledgeable about the ship and cruising in general. Looking forward to more videos!
Hey there!!! Was great meeting you two as well and hope you had a great cruise! Maybe I will see you on another soon?
It’s totally unfair! Solo traveler’s unite
Most of it is caused by their deceptive marking practices to make the price appear lower per person. What I mean by this, if I was to have a hotel reservation, it is one, higher price. If I bring someone with me, it is still the same price but I can split the cost. Same concept with cruise ships except they price it by the person instead of by the room with a 2 person minimum. If they simply switched to saying "the room is $xxx' it would be the same thing. They just make us feel bad the way they market it and then charge even more than the extra person sometimes. Not sure what the answer is but with cruising continuing to be very popular, I don't see it changing anytime soon m:-(
I'm happy to have found your channel (while looking for a certain cruise ship's reviews) -- it's so interesting to me that solo travel is seen as so "uncommon" :-) I'm 65, female, and have traveled and lived solo since leaving everything and taking off at 43 years old with nothing. Lived in 10 countries so far and many cities within those countries -- Italy being the longest at about 18 years (even have written and published a book about all of this). The reason I'm commenting is to say I'm really glad to see content like this, especially solo cruising. I was looking at NCL for my upcoming cruise in a month but wasn't able to make it work financially (time of year) -- so I've chosen to give Costa another chance (after a 13 year break from them LOL but as I'm Italian and live here, nothing on board will surprise me!). All reasonings for solo cruising (and solo travel itself) are absolutely spot on. Never have I felt alone or lonely, have no qualms whatsoever about eating alone or chilling in a restaurant alone with my kindle or people watching and enjoying wine-and-food paring, etc. I think it's hysterical when people look at me strange for "daring to eat alone with everyone staring" or "oohhh poor woman, all alone" I just laugh LOL Eat whenever you want and wherever you want, for goodness sake! Be strong, ignore everyone, and go have that specialty restaurant stuff! I'm so happy also that many cruise lines have begun to lower their horridly expensive single supplements! I've subscribed...keep it up! Yeah I'd love to go on another small ship, like the 10-cabin dahabiya down the Nile that I did for my 60th birthday.... :-)
Take me with you on the nile cruise!!! That is on my bucket list! Thank you for your feedback Mariavano! It is really interesting you mention the age with solo cruising. I think most people assume it is younger whipper snappers but in reality, it is people with more life experience 60 and up but no one really focuses on that group! I might see what I can do in some videos ;-)
@@TheWeekendCruiser Come on, let's go! I'm thinking about taking the cruise again later this year -- it was THAT amazing and life-changing! check out Nour El Nil, you'll so want to do it! 😀😀
I love to cruise solo, and sometimes prefer it to going with a friend. I love to do what I want, when I want. I've gone to specialty restaurants and the Chef's Table as a solo and it's always been great. Do you have a website to help find the charter/specialty cruises?
Hey Carole, I have often thought there should be a website that catalogues charters or specialty cruises but I have never heard of one. Not sure it is collected anywhere.
Thank you for the great content. Celebrity edge (sydney great barrier reef) does not charge extra for veranda solo/ 2025 great barrier reef ). Looking into it but still intimidated by all the "extras" which are not included with most cruises, not even water or wifi. I usually do land trips which include more amenities in the base price and never charge double for a solo; it's usually a bit more such as 20-25% more for having my own room, which I believe is justified.
Sounds like a great cruise and beautiful rea of the world! Keep us posted on what you decide! No wrong answers!
@@TheWeekendCruiser Thanks I will; very tempted; stuck between land vs. cruise
@@TheWeekendCruiser For me, it's part of the trip anxiety; the unknown. Loss of control as in you are forcing me to tip before anything even happens? I don't want random people in my room AT ALL during any trip. No thanks. So I would need to pay for that yet refuse it anyway?
@@gigi9301 That's the game the cruise lines are playing. these days. I don't like it either.
Great video but I can't entirely agree with one point. I always recommend specialty dining for solo cruisers. Request a table near the kitchen and watch the chefs at work ( many specialty restaurants have an open- view of the kitchen.) If you catch a chef's eye, they might even send out a treat, just for you. The waitstaff is always the most attractive and outgoing on the ship and will be extra friendly because they don't have to worry about interrupting a family or couple's conversation and just have one person's needs to focus on. Solo cruising is wonderful.
Thank you and that is a good tip! I agree, I am a huge fan of chatting with the crew and enjoying their company. That and they also know that I am going to be in and out when it comes to food. 30 min and under here!
I have been on eight cruises on seven different lines. I think that the worst to go solo would be NCL as they will NOT sit you with others. I go on cruises to meet others and honestly, we have cruise couples visit us and contact us frequently.
That is interesting. They don't have a communal table of any kind. I almost thought that was impossible on a cruise ship...
This was great, how about solo cruise for the over 65 sailor.......ty
Hey Max! I should see if I can talk to some folks who cruise solo and are over 65. That would be a great video! I know a LOT of solo cruisers are over the age of 65, not uncommon at all!
Thanks for this video. I was just on a family cruise a few weeks ago, and went to a travel agent today to plan my first solo cruise for March. Good points made in this video, and definitely put some of my apprehensions at ease!
That is great to hear and a great outcome of the video!
I don't change or think anything different about cruising.Been sailing since late 70's.
Excellent thankyou
You're the best! I only cruise solo and your tips are great. Will meet you someday!
Fingers crossed!
I have to make a conscious effort to eat really early or just before closing to avoid the crowds. The large ships have more dining options.
I'm not feeling this need for community that you feel.
I have no reason to initiate a conversation with anyone. I just want to blend in with the throngs of passengers and do my vacation. Not somebody else's.
I totally get that Will! I actually go through phases with my needing to be part of a community. Some days, I am all in and others, I need my space! Thanks for sharing your solo journeys for others to see it can be exactly what you make of it!
I am rather a formal person but not an unfriendly person . I have traveled solo on Cunard Queen Mary and on Seabourn Encore and Oceana Marina. All had singles meeting hours but I did not like them . Oceana Marina was unpleasant but on the Queen Mary and Encore I let the Maitre D place me where he thought best for me for dinner but if I was to eat alone I always asked for a table against a wall . Breakfast and Lunch are not a problem as there are many people eating solo .
That is great and you are taking some cruises I hope to one day be able to try! Agreed with breakfast and lunch being easier. Dinner can get a little tricky or awkward if you get in your head but once you have done it a few times, it becomes second nature!
I was on oasis of the seas in May. I went as a solo cruiser. And I eat in the dining room. I agree it is a little bit awkward, however, the people on both sides of me we were talk sometimes they were there a couple nights in a row.
Me encantan tus videos. Por favor poner subtítulos en español, serían de mucha utilidad a los que amamos los cruceros, gracias y felicidades por tus videos
¡Disculpas porque tenía poco tiempo! Los subtítulos en inglés se han agregado y ahora deberían traducirse automáticamente al español. ¡Gracias por el empujón!
lol. That’s me. I always talk to the solo cruiser at dinner. If it stops after a few minutes that’s fine, if we continue through the meal that’s great. My husband does not talk at mealtime so I’m at a table for 2 people but actually solo
Sounds like you are approaching it correctly Linda! Anyone will be kind and cordial but you normally pretty quickly learn they are open to further conversation. Maybe when you meet people around the ship, you could invite them to join you for dinner and continue the conversation?
Sounds like you are a dependent person type, nothing wrong with that. Personally I prefer traveling alone so much less hassle. I've no problem meeting and enjoying conversation with people or being by myself. Thanks for the tip about cruiseplum looks to be what I was looking for.
Glad you like cruise plum! Yes, no wrong way to go by yourself. It's a great time being extroverted or introverted.
Solo travelers don't worry 😮there are always singles there plus sometimes you have big groups traveling and someone always there single
This is very true! Though, us solo folks are everywhere!! But do feel Virgin Voyages gets a strong number of solo folks. Also, read they have 40 solo cabins which is crazy!
can you post a link to that weekend cruiser trip in november, I can't find it!
Yes Please.
Sure can! It is Nov 3, 2023 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral for a 3 night, weekend sailing!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! If you can't make this one, there will be more! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
Hey Jeff! It is Nov 3, 2023 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral for a 3 night, weekend sailing!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
I have been on on hosted singles cruises and met a lot of good friends. I also went alone and had no problems. What do you think of hosted singles cruises? They plan different get togethers and excursions but you don't have to go with them if you don't like it. There are different age groups and ones open to anyone.
I am certainly a fan of anything that helps people feel more comfortable or have a better time cruising! I have not had the chance to attend a solo cruise hosted by someone but one day, do home to host one myself!
I looked at several solo cruising options last year (my partner is still working and he really isn't a fan of cruise ships) and found it affordable -- UNTIL I priced the airfare and hotel. If you don't live near a cruise port (not a Florida resident), those extra costs can be very prohibitive.
oh yeah, have to look at the big picture!
Good tips I have been thinking about a solo cruise, wonder about dining options
Hi Bally! You have some options on what your dinning options are. I think the biggest item comes down to how comfortable you are to eating by yourself or if you prefer to eat with others. If eating with others, just head to the matre de and let them know and they will accomdiate. Otherwise, watch this video here that talks about how to build your solo cruising confidence ua-cam.com/video/diw2BK3pOeY/v-deo.html
Looking to book solo transatlantic cruise from New York or Miami if anyone has any suggestions
I agree with you. For first time cruisers who are also sailing solo, I think they need to know what each cruise line and ship offers. On solo forums the most common question is, “What’s the best cruise for a solo cruiser?” I think there is a common misunderstanding that all cruises are the same, so one is just like another.
hmmm, let me see if I can work that into a video. I am really on familiar with RCL, MSC, Celebrity, and Virgin's offerings. I have read a lot about NCL but have not experienced it to give first hand lessons or advice but I like your thought!
@@TheWeekendCruiser along the same lines, not all solo travelers are the same. Some seek out other solos, some enjoy being on there own, some like to have options. For me, I like being on my own so I’m not so good helping people know about solo meetups etc.
I think that is how I would want to approach it... somethjing along "best ship for introverts/extroverts, party people,/relaxers".
@@TheWeekendCruiser looking forward to it.
New sub here, grreat information !! Looking forward to more of your content!
Hey hey and welcome to the channel!! Always my pleasure and glad you like!
Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruiseline have studio cabins
I used to dine by myself I don’t want to talk to anyone else mindless chatter. My first cruise solo this weekend is gonna be chilled week less talking works for me. I’m excited but nervous to see if I like it.
How did it go Natasha?!?!
Thanks, helpful.
I've never been on a cruise. I'd be solo. My big issue is I'm pretty shy, I don't like large groups of people and I'm terrible at small talk. I have no idea why I'd even consider a cruise haha but this video helped. A couple of drinks would relax me but I can't quit at a couple so I'd end up drinking too much then feeling like crap the next couple of days. Why is life so hard lol
Great vid. At no point did you tell us what ship you were sailing on. That drove me nuts. Ha ha.
I cruised solo on Voyager OTS a year back. RCCL disappointed me because they moved me from late dining (which I chose so that they'd seat me at a table with people) to my time, so I ended up dining by myself, wearing a suit both formal nights.
haha from looking at the room, I assume it is Freedom of the Seas :-) Sorry about that!
Thanks for the info and this may be a stupid question but how can I ensure to keep my seat if day I have to use restroom or wanna get up and dance.. and any tips on protecting my drinks?
FYI I will be going on my first solo
I unfortunately do not have any tips there. I've tried a few different ways, even leaving my cell phone by the drink and it doesn't seem to work. Maybe if you put a napkin on top? It is definitely one of the downfalls of solo cruising is always losing your plate in the buffet and drinks.
@@TheWeekendCruiser ok no problem, I’ll figure out something lol…thanks anyway for the quick response 👍
@@thanjawI was thinking about that on a recent HAL cruise. I am thinking of printing up a small card, laminating it, and placing it on the table. I am b2b cruises in September and might try it then.
That actually sounds like a great idea, might try that one myself. I also thought about carrying a sweater and leaving on the chair, lol nothing fancy just a little “hey someone is here” thing. Please let me know how the card works out….
Thank you
I have been solo cruising for 10 yrs. I have no problem
More about the Allure solo cruise group please
Hey Anna! It is Nov 3 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
Been on one solo cruise. It was different from when I went with my wife. There are some cruise lines I won't cruise on. Two bad experiences and others have cut back on services.. Solo staterooms are very tiny. Use Vacations To Go. My late wife went on Empress of the Seas in it's inaugural season. If you eat alone you could get finished faster. Like to eat in the MDR. Could have a picture of my wife at the table. My first solo cruise was on the Enchanted Princess. Don't really care if I meet someone or not. Very rarely make friends. More people are friendly in the casino. Some places I have been to many times and know where I want to go. No shore excursion.
I find I am more outgoing when I travel solo. When traveling with others, I tend not to talk to everyone that I do when I go solo. I have no problem eating solo in the MDR. Eating with others might take two hours vs maybe 45 minutes...it all depends on the schedule you want to keep.
Absolutely! When you are with even one more person, you are unintentionally insular and don't meet as many others. When solo, it opens up an entirely new world!
@@TheWeekendCruiser
Thnks for bring up topic,I only live 20 minutes from port so it's kinda my hobby, something different every time even if on same ship or ports.
Thanks Branden we also bha e made some great friendships in the Main Dinning Room. Are you sailing on the Freedom in OCT?
Aww I am not!! I am venturing out in October and playing cruise line roulette almost! Scarlet Lady, MSC Seaside, RCL Indy, and Celebrity Summit. A different cruise line each weekend!
Any specific advice for a solo cruiser with a disability/mobility issues? Is there a particular cruise line you'd recommend for this?
Great question! I am not sure though I feel comfortable weighing in on this as I have not really examined cruise lines for their accessibility. Here is a video I made of an ambulatory room on Virgin Voyages where I list several other UA-cam channels of people who can better speak to this topic. ua-cam.com/video/e2O5F4_-swQ/v-deo.html
I’m not so sure lounging by the pool is the best way to meet someone unless it’s an adults only cruise because it’s mostly in general children running around.
Although one time when I was cruising across Atlantic, I went to the pool and most people didn’t go because it was a cold climate, and I met a very nice woman from Ireland.
What is the information about joining your short cruise? Does it start from Florida?
It does! It is Nov 3, 2023 on Allure of the Seas out of Port Canaveral for a 3 night, weekend sailing!!! Her VERY first weekend sailing!! To learn more, complete this jotform for the travel agent to reachout and price the cruise for you. Hope you can make it! form.jotform.com/230504503062138
@@TheWeekendCruiser Thanks I’ll look into it I live somewhat nearby
I met someone at trivial almost by accident. I was just walking by the trivia game on the way to someplace else, but not in a hurry and I noticed people were talking over the question and I said a little bit out loud that that’s definitely not the answer it is this and a mother and her two children invited me to her table, and I had a nice time playing with the mother and two children, even though I never saw them again except to say hi. It was a nice game.
Isn't your face on Virgin's website??LOL Great advice for 1st time solo traveler on the Scarlet Lady!!
hahah I am not pretty enough for their marketing! But love the scarlet lady and virgin. Have several more videos of her coming out.
Thanks for posting this. I've been considering a solo cruise around Japan. Celebrity has a great itinerary but I've found they're chwrging way more than double occupancy for solo travelers. What's your experience been with Celebrity as a solo traveler? I can swallow paying double, but another 50% on top of that i can't justify 😢
I would say get a good travel agent who might know how to work the system. You can do a "phantom" second person and get the lower pricing. I would not pay more than 200% single supplement as I don't want to go where I am not wanted. If i am able to book a solo/studio cabin, that is a different story but those are limited on Celebrity.
Are you doing any solo trips in June? I dropped the ball in selecting something trying to find people to join, and more in have nothing planned. 😢
I am not! I stay away a lot more during the summer because the prices are high and there's so many kids.
I ate alone, I went early and they seated me. Really nice meal.
Hey Brandon! Missed you!
Aww missed you all too!!
just curious I guess if you go on solo point in royal carribean you get double points so my question is have you reached pinnacle yet?
Ha, oh boy have I! Believe I hit pinnacle in August of 2021. With the double points promotion last year, I am currently at 1,530 points with Crown & Anchor. Will slow down some as I venture to other cruise lines with less robust programs.
Just discovered you and your channel. While I have done a loy of group travel, I am a huge fan of solo travel (land and cruise). Thanks for the helpful, interesting info!
I’m going solo I don’t plan to talk to others only if I have to. I’m only want eat at the Buffett.
I think solo women get looked at more than solo men. Perhaps because as you said they can’t imagine themselves doing that. I’ve met a few solo widows. I was in the loyalty club waiting for hubby to finish his chapter! That made me seem more approachable. And, she volunteered she was widowed twice! She was traveling with friends but they weren’t eligible for the event.
Great recommendations … in one of my early jobs involved traveling solo, and yes it takes practice. What was most annoying was the restaurants at that time were not necessarily welcoming ….. clearly not the same on a cruise!
@@WestCoastCultured I used to get “Dinner for just one.” I always turned around to see who they might think might be “more”. In this day and age most have finally learned to say dinner for how many. I do remember teaching a hostess that the latter was much nicer and much less sexist! I suggest for the really arrogant that yes you could have found someone but your prefer or chose, depending how snarky you want to be, your own company! You could also answer by telling them where your friends are etc. New Mexico? Facebook? Unfortunately it was mostly my grandmother that asked me about where my boyfriend was as she just knew I would need a husband to take care of me! And she would say that knowing I had be able to visit her because I was out of town on business near where she was.
Men when solo are asked what business brings them there if they are in a hotel restaurant.
@@WestCoastCultured When I travel alone, doesn’t it matter if it’s a cruise or otherwise I’ve never had someone ask, where are my friends, family, spouse then again I am older, so maybe it’s not the same as if you’re 20 or 30 years old.
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957Good for you. A lot of women get questioned, regardless of age.
That is a really great point!!! I had not even considered the differences between men and women here but believe you are 100% right!
@@TheWeekendCruiser you might really enjoy reading the Gift of Fear., a lot of the examples are of women but does explain how macho can be a bad thing! The Challenge of being Single gives you more insight into what you thought wasn’t being slighted but is. But, my experiences are now pretty old, although cruise ships still want to know if you are waiting for the person they last say you with!
When I first travelled for business I had a waitress ignore my attempts to pay my breakfast bill because the men need to get to work, soon! And, a colleague who had already been in the hotel for a week, and eating in their restaurants, one night was told they didn’t seat unescorted women, after 6! Yes, turns out they had a hooker problem but it was a nice restaurant and she should have been asked if she was a guest first. Lots of other examples, but fortunately, the times they are a changing … sometimes not fast enough though😇
Do they still give solo traveler double points?
Depends on the cruise line. Celebrity, Royal, NCL definitely give double points. I'm honestly not sure if Virgin does as they have recently changed their program.
I loved this video and quite a few of suggestions given are top notch. HOWEVER, as someone of color - as a solo traveler, you are ALWAYS viewed by the other passengers with suspicion. Striking up conversations is like pulling teeth. I have even been at larger tables in the dining room where, after the first meeting, the original diners don’t show up! (If you’re an attractive woman of color… no problem. But a single man of color - solo cruising can be a challenge.) Don’t get me wrong, I love cruising….but, it can be challenging.
Thank you and you are spot on with your comment! And thank you for sharing this perspective as it provides good insight for me and others of color who are watching this video. If you do not already follow @SIGCruiser www.youtube.com/@SIGCruiser she is a solo cruiser of color who loves sharing her experience. I'm a big fan.
ALSO!!! I almost forget, came back to the comment to add this. Always feel free to join us on a group cruise! We are a great group that is about 50% solo folks and we do not stop talking the entire time! Just announced one on last night's live for Quantum of the Seas out of Los Angeles on Quantum of the Seas on Nov 14, 2025. We have SEVERAL studio rooms reserved to help keep the cost down for us!
Group Cruise Email Sign-Up! www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruise-sign-up
Group Cruise Options & How to Register: www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruises
Rule #1 for solo cruisers...all strangers are just friends you haven't met yet.
Be open to eating with new people. Be willing to chat to people sitting near you. Don't be aggressive, but be friendly. Go to the singles get together. You might find a person who would like to hang out. Take advantage of the entertainment. The lights are low...no one knows you're on your own. Excursions together are fun.
Love your Rule #1. I always say, if you want to meet people, just start saying hello and acknowledging the person beside of you exist. Don't over complicate it!
Viking?
I have not tried Viking but I would LOVE to go on one of their river cruises. They have a strong fan base and following and are well respected with their ocean liners and river cruises.
My experience is that trying to eat solo in buffet is almost impossible. Tables are usually occupied by others and they DON'T want you to share with them or they will let you share begrudgingly. Solo buffet is not a happy experience.
I find that eating solo in the Buffet it’s very crowded at certain times but if you go earlier or later than most people, it’s not a problem. one time I actually made a friend when it was another solo that I sat with
Agree with the other commenter here - it can be tough when the buffet is packed and def more an issue on longer sailings. Off times might be your best bet.