How I Cruise Solo Better (& Cheaper!) Than Anybody Else

[@lairdmichaelscott]

Yep. After my last kid got out of high school, I took an NCL cruise with a solo cabin in the Med because I did not want to be a lone single person in a horde of couples. And it worked. At age 49, after having spent 12 years as single-parent and widower, I suddenly got a taste of what it must be like to be "big man on campus." After the first evening group get-together I never got to do anything alone again. Everybody was constantly grabbing me to go do whatever. I enjoyed it. I certainly had no intentions of getting involved with anyone . . . neither did she. Two years later we married and that was 14 years ago. Still can't believe my good fortune.

[@johnanthony4194]

Life begins at 49

[@janic54]

prefer to pay for 2 and get a "bigger" cabin.

[@ChickenFriedCorgi]

Wonder if I'm in the minority that enjoys solo cruising but not out to hang with strangers. I get enjoyment from just walking around the cruise. Listening to podcasts. Reading my kindle. No problem sitting and talking with folks at the dining table, but I'm not cruising to socialize lol.

[@LauraJdogmom]

I'm with you; I am happy just chilling.

[@connieledford1745]

Same!

[@bradmack8953]

I appreciate your points but for me the bigger the ship the easier it is to get lost in the crowd and I love being left alone.

[@ExtraordinaryLiving]

Yes, ditto! I think Gary likes socializing with fellow cruisers. Yet, for me, one of the beauty of cruising solo (and I am a solo cruiser) is being alone to my own company. I did stay in NCL's Studio cabins multiple times and peruse the Studio Lounge [to get my morning coffee and random snacks], yet I had never attended the solo meetings or activities. One upside to being social is that one gets to acquire a lot more pertinent info and knowledge. Oh well, this is why we are watching his videos. 😉

[@claresherman2278]

I have never cruised, but I’d like to and it would definitely be solo. I agree completely. I’m happy not to be included! A lot of what Gary talks about sounds like my idea of hell, lol!

[@majesty10xu15]

I totally agree. Additionally, I don't care if someone seems "surprised" if I'm solo. Who cares? I'd say you're having self conscious or insecurity issues if you do care what someone may be thinking about you.

[@TerryKitts]

Yes, and I want my own table. For example, the Disney parks don't realize that a table for one, and a table for two, is the same table. So many times, Disney had a reservation for two, but NO reservations for one.

[@stacihayward8512]

Thank you for this video! I'm a 43 yr old single female w 6 weeks vacation a yr and I don't want to sit around and wait for someone to travel with me. These were excellent tips!

[@howardgofstein7366]

Whoa…..6 weeks per year? Is your workplace hiring!!??

[@keeshnyc]

Same age, same amount of vacation! Travels buddies??? 👋🏾

[@AriezGirl_78]

@@keeshnyc👋🏽 travel buddies are hard to come by sometimes

[@zenjenn32]

Same here Staci.

[@marykCLT]

Me too!

[@ryanguzek361]

Need more solo cabins with balconies

[@traveler320ak7]

I always want my own cabin..even if I’m traveling with a friend or family. I like the idea of booking two solo cabins when traveling with a good friend. They have their space and i have mine. Not sure if others feel the same way but the cruise line could make money on the solo cabins because of this. Thanks for the video!

[@747carrie]

My best friend and I always book two solo cabins on NCL whenever we cruise together. It's how we stay friends! :-p

[@traveler320ak7]

@@747carrie yes indeed. 😃

[@wesleywright6458]

I feel absolutely the same way. There’s no one I want to share such close quarters with, but would love for friends or family being on board, to vacation and do excursions with.

[@celestedecuir6674]

Yes, absolutely! If my friends want to go with me on a cruise, I do tell them that they will have to have their own cabin. It makes for a better cruise experience....better sleep and quiet time, for sure. And, while they may balk at first, they know I'm right. The cruise line or travel agent will try and find a cabin close or at least on the same deck.

[@traveler320ak7]

@@celestedecuir6674 absolutely.. takes the cruise experience from good to fabulous.

[@lynnsmith3015]

I just did a solo cruise on NCL Getaway and it was a great experience. The solo gathering was hosted by the same staff member each night, she had a 30-minute activity for us and a standing reservation in the dining room for whomever wanted to join that night and a reserved row in the theater. There were about twenty people that regularly attended and we became quite good friends.

[@cherifurr3935]

That might be an interesting one to try. Hated Norwegian many years ago. Maybe they’ve changed!

[@Honolulu-Blue]

Thanks for sharing. It's good to know about the current NCL solo experience.

[@debbiefergerson3538]

that’s great! i want to see Six the musical on the Bliss! i will look again at the Alaska cruise if the singles can sit together at the show, i hope they do that on the Bliss! Thanks!

[@samantha1877]

Really

[@vikkinovak5114]

I did NCL as a solo an had the same great experience.

[@NinjaBooKitty]

You would think the travel industry would recognize us as having more discretionary cash and would cater more to our specific needs and desires. I exclusively travel alone and am researching cruises, so I appreciate this post!

[@stargazer5073]

I'm a solo traveler and don't like to be included....I'm there to enjoy peace and quiet.

[@TerryKitts]

Agreed.

[@paultyrrell9497]

Totally

[@janiekcarney5482]

You are my favorite source for cruising info. Thank you. Your voice is soft. You don’t scream in the microphone when someone gives you money. Very pleasant.

[@vikkinovak5114]

I did an NCL cruise to the Mediterranean. I had a solo cabin. It was amazing. There was tons of closet space. In the morning, I would wake up and walk to the exclusive lounge for singles...I would get my coffee, so I had something to drink while getting dressed. After I returned from my land tour I would pass through the exclusive single lounge and get a glass of wine before I cleaned up for dinner.

[@gidget9101]

Sounds wonderful. Would love to do that cruise I am 70 but really really shy

[@elnamayberry]

I am going on my 1st cruise in Feb '24 (7 day Caribbean) and am really looking forward to the NCL Solo cabin and the lounge - such a great perk !

[@adjmm]

I must be the old grump who loves being solo. I am a very social person but if I’m travelling alone then for the most part I eat alone, never had a problem getting a single table, I spend thr majority of my time on board reading, walking, enjoying the cruising. When I want to be social I join an LGBT meet and greet or play the card tables in the casino. I seldom do group excursions as I find many are boring. I love to go exploring on my own and in truth I have had many wonderful adventures far exceeding what the people on excursions have enjoyed. So grumpy old man does not fit you typical listener this time but keep up the good work. Oh yes, I really hate the ‘supplement’ , years ago one could get a 50% supplement or some other deal. Not any more, greedy greedy greedy these lines have become.

[@Rose-qr4xn]

I’m 68; been widowed since I was 47. It NEVER NEVER gets easier to be in a large group of “couples”. I’m going to count my Pennies and take a solo Oceano cruise.

[@ericl29]

Princess are one of the few cruise lines that you can search by 1 guests. Doing this allowed me to find a cruise for 1 on Ruby out of Galveston on Jan 15 . The current solo rate for that date is still starting at $340 for 1 & no single supplement charge. A balcony is $645. Happy cruising yall.

[@webjammer1]

I will be on the Ruby March 5th. A solo premium aft corner balcony cost me $1100 total and I also received $200 on board credit.

[@onjekaji5832]

@@webjammer1 how many days?

[@onjekaji5832]

I got an 8 day carnival celebration (new ship) Caribbean cove balcony for $800

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Wow I did not know that. Thanks for the information

[@karterlandon]

All lines search with 1 guest.

[@charlesdeperpignan4808]

Traveling solo is also about avoiding interaction. For some solo travellers there is no point on engaging in group activities.

[@tremorist]

You name it! 😂

[@46foryounger]

I agree. It's so good to get away from everyday life and decompress and soak it in. It's also wonderful to people watch and feel the exciting energy of those around you or just sit out on the balcony and think or not think at all

[@beingmarilyngail8470]

I prefer cruising solo. Loneliness is not a problem because I'm a friendly person so I'll mingle with people on the cruise and when I want my alone time, I can go off by myself without offending anyone. Except for my adult children, I can't share a cabin with anyone especially not a stranger.

[@richardc8738]

I just returned from a solo cruise on Windstar. On the first night, the amazing cruise director invited all four solo travelers to join her for dinner. It made the cruise incredible. I never dined alone, my solo friends were so gracious, and I also met several couples. Start with a smaller ship. It was amazing. Excellent advice from Gary.

[@cruiseforever1281]

As a widow, I continued cruising on Seabourn. You’re right, they don’t have solo cabins. And they charge a single supplement - but only 75%. While that’s not great, it’s still better than 100%. What I have found on Seabourn, the crew went out of their way to keep me company and to make me feel appreciated. When couples excluded me, the crew stepped in to offer me special meals and social support. At the end of my cruise, it was the crew whose friendship I remember.

[@faithmoore7520]

How is the food on seaborn compared to others. Do they bring you drinks and food while relaxing in your lawn chair outside? How well did they pamper you?

[@cruiseforever1281]

The food is and has been wonderful. You ask and they respond to what ever you want. Yes, I do feel pampered. The crew goes out of their way to make me feel cared for.@@faithmoore7520

[@mike07646]

I'm in my late thirties and have taken 9 cruises now with NCL, more than half of them solo and the rest with my parents (so I tend to go off solo here and there anyways and let them do their romantic thing). I feel Norwegian does a very good job with their Studio cabins, the solo lounge, and the dedicated events and staff member for the solo meetups. They seem to go out of their way to treat solo travelers with respect, and I've never found it awkward going to dinner in the restaurants or even specialty dining and just asking for a table for 1. Unfortunately I don't have another cruise line to compare it to, as NCL started the whole Studio cabin thing with their NCL Epic (my first ever cruise) and I've been loyal to them ever since.

[@747carrie]

I have it on good authority (my own experience + that of friends who have even more cruising experience than I do) that NCL is really the best among the mainstream cruise lines for solo travelers.

[@pauguste6559]

This is very helpful. I’m considering a solo cruise in the near future and I’m hesitant on choosing some lines as I hardly see people that look like me. I’m okay with dining alone and all that however, in general I would like to be part of the events and programs without feeling, how should I say, odd. So, thanks for indicating that NCL provides a welcoming atmosphere.

[@walker1812]

When dining on cruise ships I like to do what I call “Chat Roulette” and ask to be sat at a large group table because you never know what kind of conversation you’re going to get. Lots of fun even when it’s terrible. lol.

[@erinf4712]

Great video. I did my first solo cruise at 19 and now at 63, I am still solo cruising mostly on NCL and Royal. I completely agree that the smaller (and sometimes older) ships, you have a better experience. NCL does go out of its way to train its solo meet-up hosts that this is not a singles group. On a recent solo cruise on NCL Joy (solo cabins but no solo lounge), JM the host booked private time on the go-cart track, a private karaoke party, dinner reservations every night, etc. As a people watcher, I do like to dine alone and as you move up in status with a line, it is easier to get a solo table.

[@ezzie_is]

I’ve also noticed that when cruises do cater to solo travellers, they do one of two extremes - 20 something partiers or the over 50’s. I fall into that middle area as a single in my 30’s that’s not interested in partying, and find there’s VERY little out there for people like me. Add in living in the southern hemisphere and there’s even less local options.

[@tpiety]

I actually usually don’t want to meet people. So the tips for that don’t apply for me, but the other stuff is really helpful!

[@X0awsome]

Good tips Gary! I'm an introvert solo cruiser that avoids solo/single events, group meetups and the mdr....but I never lack for people who want to chitchat on the lido, invite me to eat with them, etc. IMO cruising is the best vacation for solos

[@designdoctor247]

i cruised solo on Grandure of the Sea. i had one of the best weeks of MY LIFE. it was the most relaxing week of my life...my cabin stewards n wait staff were amazing!!!

[@FraserAtSea]

'Where we're wanted' is SUCH a huge one for me. One of the reasons I'm supporting MSC so much at the moment is the fact that they've pretty much dropped their solo supplements on so many cruises. I'm hoping to get back onto Norwegian next year - while their pricing isn't great from a solo POV, the onboard offerings are just fantastic. Great video as always, sir!

[@ExtraordinaryLiving]

So so so agree with you about the 'Where we're wanted' !!! 👍 NCL now-a-days has opened up some of the Inside, Oceanview, and balcony staterooms for solo cruisers (meaning the cruise line actually has a category for solo cruiser in these stateroom types) with all the same perks of the Studio cabins.

[@stoehrcov]

Gary is one of the best on KZbin. Also, a personal friend of Mason. Booked my first solo cruise. Not sure what to expect. Eating alone is awkward. I am not a buffet person for every meal. Thanks

[@lap8329]

I think it only reasonable that lines like Silver Sea should offer a decent solo discount when you consider that all meals, alcohol, excursions and other perks are being paid for in the price. My dear departed partner may be with me in spirit, but spirits don’t take up seat in restaurants, bars, pool loungers, or excursions, nor do they consume meals, snacks, or hefty quantities of top-shelf scotch.

[@barbaralazier8352]

My last cruise I shared with a friend. What a big mistake. I am an early riser, she was a late night-sleep in person. We got on each others nerves very quickly. So my next cruise I am going solo on a repositioning cruise through the Panama Canal. My travel agent got me a great price.

[@marygood8920]

I too enjoy a balcony cabin. I would cruise a lot more if they got rid of the solo supplement, and had solo balcony cabins! I enjoy your video's, thanks for all the information about solo cruising!

[@hettytravels]

What a great video and agree 100% with how you go about solo cruising! I definitely come out of my comfort zone to meet and engage with strangers. But it’s super easy because we all love travel and cruising! Thanks for adding me into your video! So special!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching and great to hear :-) :-)

[@avaleesdad]

Setting sail on my first solo cruise on the Crown Princess very soon! Wish me luck

[@auntagatha2509]

couldn’t agree more about a more intimate ships with smaller numbers

[@cruisingnurse5443]

Thanks, Gary, for this video. I have only traveled solo even before I started cruising so I am pretty self sufficient in entertaining myself. The single supplement is a bugger, though. It keeps me from going to places because it is just cost prohibitive.

[@jules2565]

Even if I go with a friend, I want my own space! Great info!

[@horrorjunky4life50]

I did my first solo cruise on Carnival mid December. I didn't feel as if I was being left out as there were plenty of things for me to do on board. Since I asked for late dining in the MDR, there was only one other person seated at a table that seats 7. The first night the gentleman didn't speak to me. The 2nd night I introduced myself and that led to us having pleasant conversations every night after that. I look at solo traveling as a way to meet people. My next cruise is on Royal Caribbean this year. I'll be on the lookout for any solo meetups.

[@silviaeaston]

DITTI.... I also get the remarks of "ONLY one then?"... my insides tremble when the judgmental words are dished out! The crew is trained in everything but "what to say/inquire of a "solo"... (have seen this clip several times, so this one won't be my last) BTW... Royal Caribbean's "solo meetings" by a mega attended bar, on the worst time of the day (8pm) says it all. One gets there without any "flag" or designated crew, and one is to roam around the area questioning the 99% of coupled guests who would rather one disappear. How much nicer would it be if the solo meetings would be in an "forgotten corner" offering spirits on the first day!

[@achevres]

Wow, so many great tips!! I’ve never cruised solo, but have travelled solo many times. Considering a solo cruise and this video is unbelievably helpful.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Do it! All my cruises have cruised solo but one time I did not cruise solo I cruised with a very needy friend so I actually had a better time when I was solo because I felt free to meet and go around with people instead of just do what my friend wanted to do.

[@yuckyool]

Same here. My wife is younger and loves her job while I am approaching (partial?) retirement. I have done many solo vacations which I have enjoyed, but not yet a cruise.

[@achevres]

@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 Thanks!.

[@susans7091]

I love solo travel also. Far easier to actually do what I want to do, and even to meet interesting people.

[@robertscott6048]

got 4 solo cruises first one was seven night for $700 with $450 cash back, Second $450 with $250 back seven night again, Number 3 is a 11 nights for $800 with $150 back and Matched status bonus, For the 4th cruise $500 for 11nights but no bonus at this price but also have the match status

[@kencarruthers6714]

Great advice from you Gary - as always! As a solo traveller in my 70's, I find this a really tricky issue. Solo meet-ups arranged by most cruise lines in my experience just don’t work or most often turn out to be non-existent. It’s a shame the cruise lines don’t make more effort really.

[@davidbarnett8617]

Back in the mid 1980s there was a company called Singleworld. They provided a host/hostess to make it easier and fun to travel solo. There would be Singleworld only events and excursions or you could simply go out on your own. Instant friends! Ahh, the memories.

[@Honolulu-Blue]

Vacations to go would seem to offer a similar experience these days

[@geebrewer8186]

I did some cruises' with Singleworld--they were fun. I always had a habit of just going around doing my thing and finding stray singles to join our excursions if they wanted to. The more the merrier.

[@EikelmannRU]

Sounds to me like solo travelers still end up spending more because the only lines that offer good stuff for solo travelers are the expensive ones.

[@Medsas]

of course… unless cruises decide to run hostels where strangers share a room…

[@Elaines-travels]

@@Medsas Norwegian isn't outrageously priced

[@adaptercrash]

Micro cruiSe

[@747carrie]

@@Elaines-travels agreed! NCL is just fine. I travel solo with them all the time and it doesn't break the bank compared to other cruise lines.

[@juanitafurtado8805]

I had a very positive experience cruising solo on a HUGE ship Ovation of the Seas. People talked to me, i think because i was alone. Neighboring tables in the dining roomm too. I met several other single ladies & made friends with my neighbors who invited me to eat with them. i chatted with my waiters, and they really looked after me. Looking forward to a future cruise on Silversea, sailing at an excellent promotional single rate. My Silversea consultant has assured me there will be other guests like me, i assume she means solo and senior. Can't Wait!

[@michaelgalliher548]

Great info Gary. As a solo cruiser myself I have run into the same issues. I would cruise much more often if there was not the unreasonable solo supplements.

[@joelw4506]

I actually had great luck on Carnival. They do have single cabins with one twin bed. They call them upper/lower cabins. No sofa, but the cabin is the same size as a regular inside cabin. I just booked a 4 night cruise out of LA. Single occupancy including port tax and the cheers package,( Carnival's drink package. ), for under $300. I actually got a regular inside cabin with a king size bed.

[@Unitedflyier]

Cruisers tend to be older people and quite often a couple that cruised together eventually loose one of them. So really makes sense that they should try and keep their clients and cater to solo travelers. I'm on Azamara now and there is a great group of solo travelers here. But we all had to pay double. 🥴

[@MadeNCda]

This is fabulous information Gary, thank you! I'm a solo traveler bc I'm single. In fact this Christmas, I went on 3 solo dates to take in live musical and theater performances to get me in the Christmas spirit and to make the month of Dec feel festive. I've just tonight come home from a fab musical and pub dinner afterwards. Travel is a pleasure and priority for me so doing it in a way that suits me is important. I will definitely review the information and sites you mentioned. 😊

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great to hear you found this one helpful!!!

[@70PaulK]

I found that focusing on solo cabins was limiting my choices. I also found that some specialist solo agents in the UK list attractive deals that have already been sold. I was lucky enough to contact a line direct and get a 7 night trip with no supplement- great deal!

[@pepsigirl8728]

What line was that lucky booking?

[@70PaulK]

@@pepsigirl8728 P&O. 7 nights Southampton to Portugal & Spain at end of April.

[@tracyantonioli]

MSC has a tab on their US site for solo cruisers--it is under the "cruise deals" tab. I just got back from a 10 day unique Caribbean itinerary. I paid $870 for a balcony, which I consider a phenomenal deal. I also made friends on board and met a few other solo travelers. Americans who choose MSC just need to understand that 80% of fellow passengers will not speak English as a first language. Personally, I find that to be an added bonus. I love having the world come together on a ship.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

What languages do most of the people on MSC speak ? just curious my first language is English but I speak two other languages.

[@bettyb1581]

I just got back from MSC seascape was bored no solos, period....... ncl is the best for solos.

[@l.1250]

Enjoys learning- most of the EU languages on 2 Med cruises I did eg Italian, French, German, Spanish and English. I also met several interesting Scandinavians. The on-board announcements are in multiple languages which was impressive. The wait and housekeeping crew all spoke English and were mainly from Asia or North Africa.

[@rmpa5727]

Gary, I'm a veteran solo cruiser. I find what you say to be spot on for me. Though sometimes I feel like I'm a fly on the wall (well, what I would imagine).

[@HeatherTravels]

This video will probably prove to be very helpful to me in the future! I just posted a video on my channel about why smaller ships are better, and one point I made was that it would be easier to be a solo traveler on a smaller ship, so I'm glad to know that my theory is correct.

[@rnptenafly]

What was that bit at the end about inviting staff or entertainers to dine with you? I thought they could get in trouble for fraternizing? Could you go into a bit more detail on this?

[@peterjaro6804]

This was EXACTLY what I wanted to know. I've been solo on so many cruises, but you still had a lot of tips I never thought about. Thank you. You are a MASTER in what you do.

[@kimhaas7586]

I recently went on a Royal Caribbean cruise solo. I don’t recommend it. There were almost no activities for solos. The only event that I found was an early evening meetup at the pub with the worst trivia game. To say it was an afterthought would be an overstatement. I tried the main dining room and was seated at a 6 top. Nobody else showed up. It felt so uncomfortable I asked the host to move me to another table, which they initially refused to do. Note that I’m usually pretty friendly and like to meet new people. But on RC, I got the distinct impression that the staff thought there was something wrong with me because I didn’t have a family or SO. (I was desperate to see the ocean, didn’t want to cook, and my boyfriend told me cruising to him was worse than gouging his eye out with a rusty fork. If you haven’t had a vacation in 3 years and in that period of time you’ve gone through chemo, radiation and surgery, you’ll do anything for a break. 🤷🏼‍♀️) Anyway, it was so incredibly uncomfortable, not to mention the quality of the food was not nearly as good as it was 16 years ago when I took my 11 year old daughter with me, that I vowed to never ever ever go on another royal Caribbean cruise. I tried it. It was the loneliest experience ever. Thank goodness it was short. Couldn’t wait to get off the boat and out of solitary confinement.

[@beachblythe]

Great information! Thank you. I’m a knitter and I go on knitting cruises organized through a travel agent. I’m able to get a roommate through the group. Very important to be honest upfront and if the roommate is a dud to accept it and have a fantastic time anyway!

[@valerieg5674]

Glad you gave Passion for Cruises a brief mention - they offer excellent rates for solo travellers. I have booked a P&O Caribbean cruise with them for next year - my first cruise. I will be staying in a regular cabin too, not a single one. Passion for Cruises have a very helpful Facebook page, where you can safely connect with other solos before your trip.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great stuff. I'll be doing lots of solo cruises soon and this was great fruit for thought. I'm on a 16-day Panama Canal cruise on Princess and they definitely don't focus on solos onboard. However, the pricing in the US is better for solos than most in my experience. So far, I have booked 9 solo cruises, 5 have been with Princess with little or no solo supplement.

[@thefrugalwanderlustinglinguist]

Enjoy my Panamá. I moved there in 2012 and just can't imagine ever moving back to the US! I hope you have the opportunity to see some of its beauty and diversity and not just watch water rise n lower for 12 hrs. Lol. (Although the locks are 1 of the wonders of the world)

[@sinwithsebastian]

This video was very comforting to me, seeing that I’m not alone with the issues of solo travelling. But also not alone with enjoying solo travelling. Thank you for all the information and I hope you start offering Solo group tourssoon I would be interested in joining… my next one will be my first tour on an English ship. The P@O Azura 20 days from Tenerife to Malta.

[@WizenedVariations1]

You cruise cheaply in large part because cruising is your livelihood. Basically, all is a business expense to the renumeration required to buy the ticket, etc. if the cruise is the subject of a published video that year. In addition, you are a known reviewer within the crusie industry which greases the transaction, and complaint gear train. This is vastly different than for the average person cruising, because (close to) nothing is compensated for by Uncle Sam, John Bull, etc. Most people have to fit a cruise into a demanding schedule that does not extend much past 60 days. And yes your advice is very often spot on and anyone interested in cruising needs to watch your videos.

[@JackDecker63]

Yes, do your own group cruises! Figure out what you would like to do in them and then do surveys of us viewers which of those things we would like to do with you. Do NOT rush this. Talk to group tour operators. Take group tours yourself to figure out what you like and dislike. Copy the good and figure out how to not do the bad. GOOD LUCK!!!

[@jaklg7905]

I have cruised solo several times on a Disney cruise ship. I have never felt uncomfortable but I believe that is a person's individual mindset. I have never had anyone "look surprised" that I am solo. If they ask, it is usually to get the appropriate table size. I probably cruise differently then others do though. I spent over 30 years working with the public so the last thing that I want to do is socialize and "get involved". I go on a cruise to relax and be catered to. Not having to worry about anything and not having to talk to others is a huge benefit of cruises for me. Although Disney does not give solo travelers any deals, I feel safe on their ships.

[@middleagedcouchpotato677]

I was literally just researching this and this video popped up. Thanks! I had no idea where to start.

[@verobxtravels166]

I solo cruise on carnival and have had a great experience. The staff has checked on me and even accompanied to my cabin when needed. The bartenders look out for me as well. There have been a lot of solo cruisers on board.

[@kennethsharp9219]

Love your videos Gary. I have learned a lot and looking forward to my first voyage. I can tell you are a very social person, I am not. It would be nice if you would do a video on solo cruising and how to enjoy your self without getting involved with others. I just want to enjoy what the cruise line has to offer that allows me to sit back by myself and experience some peace and quite at sea.

[@rayspencer5025]

😄 Socialize? Heck, I try to avoid people. It is not that I am at all shy or antisocial, but rather I want to do what I want to do and I don't want meaningless distraction.

[@barbaracameron5610]

Msc gives cheaper rates for solo for interline,military teachers and other groups. Vacations to go!! Going 3/11/24 interline rate Rio to Barcelona 14 nites, solo,$800. Can't beat that!

[@747carrie]

vacationstogo does indeed rock the house

[@karenmyrie6215]

I've gone on 4 cruises. 1 on Carnival & the rest on NCL, all as a solo traveler. I'm usually pretty independent, so I have no issue dining alone, going to shows/movie alone, etc. Agreed about going to trivia & other activities to earn points during the cruise. I've had a good time on all of my cruises. BEST was my Greek/Italy cruise Aug-Sept 2018 on NCL. The amazing staff, especially several of the activities leaders, definitely remembered me & included me in things. I have always booked a balcony or oceanview room, regardless of the extra fee. It's vacation...I can $poil myself.

[@dontown1531]

I went on 4 Princess Cruises in 1980s. 1st on orig. Sun Princess here in Vancouver, next on orig. Island Princess: Vancouver-Honolulu (around the time of Huricane so could not see Kauai as it was wreaked),3rd on orig. Sea Princess Singapore-Sydney & finally 1990 on orig. Royal Princess London-St Petersburg & return. I missed seeing Amsterdam because of a bad storm on North Sea preventing entering canal. I'm glad I cruised before ships became 3,000 passenger behemouths. BTW before the cruise in 1990 I traveled for 2 weeks on Brit Rail 1st class (I had High tea on The Cornish Riviera to Penzance). I actually have traveled over 250,000 km by train since 1955 mostly here in Canada (on The Canadian) but also Australia (entire month of May 1987) & UK.

[@Chrisnz12377]

I love this video as I can relate. In recent times it hasn't been possible for me to cruise with friends so I have cruised solo (and have 50 solo cruise days booked for next year) I haven't quite got it all worked out yet... I really dislike dining with other people but cruise lines are very reluctant to give single tables (despite us paying the same amount as a couple!) It's very easy to be made to feel un-welcomed. I will work on that for the next cruise, table of 6! I have met some lovely people on shore excursions and the onboard activities as you mention who I have gone on to dine with later in a cruise! Also themed cruises can be hit and miss, just done a 3 night LGBT (P&O AU) where the groups/couples were so cliquey I barely talked to anyone other than the staff! Funny enough I think other singles didn't really go on it...due to the costs! Cruise lines really should do more.

[@747carrie]

I'm so sorry that you've been stuck with other people against your will when dining. NCL does not do that. They're really lovely about solo cruisers! I even get really good tables by myself in the dining room. NCL, in my opinion, is the BEST for solo cruisers!

[@paulines4441]

I love MSC as it's international and they cater for singles,and speak lots of languages,which makes everyone feel comfortable.After all not everyone speaks English.

[@sumosprojects]

G’day mate, I agree about the large ships over 2000 being a nightmare so we opt for smaller cruise lines to have fun on

[@waterpolowizard]

My first overseas trip was solo and it is still my preferred way to travel. The cost thing sucks but I do like doing things to my own timetable. I've found Royal Carribean cruisers very inclusive but I'm also happy to do things by myself

[@marilynwelther5823]

The one thing I don’t want traveling solo is for others to think I’m there looking for a permanent mate/partner. There still are people who don’t accept that it’s okay to travel solo. Good advice here.

[@thomasdwyer641]

thanks i am a new 62 year old retired cruiser. and this solo tips are great

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

I am a solo traveler but I would never share a cabin with a Stranger to make it cheaper anymore. I did that when I was much younger and it worked out OK with the one time I did it. But I would not not want to chance it anymore.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

I think it’s easier to find someone that you can share a cabin with that you might click a bit with at least not be too bad off since we have smart phones and websites since when I last tried this you can put what you like or don’t like such as you’re a party person will come in late or you’re a reader and like to turn in early etc.

[@JohnnyFuturePast]

I travel solo on lots of big ships and never have a problem feeling included by Staff and Passengers…but also I Am a very outgoing and fun person so I think that is why…and I always try and get the no single supplement deals which are beginning to happen more frequently fortunately! The cruise lines are starting to realize how many of us solos are out there!

[@claudiamiller7730]

Love all your videos, sir! and watch for the info and entertainment value, as I am staunchly a non-cruiser! Someone should create a gorgeous enameled “Solo Cruiser” pin!!

[@jevvvNZ]

I love the ideas you share here Gary! I've only cruised twice and both times I had company, but the idea of cruising solo is something I'd like to try some time.

[@pumpkin462]

Great overview especially with more and more solo travelers entering the market. I also like chatting with other’s at sea vs on land

[@Tricky_Adventures]

Also, be aware some cruise lines (like Princess) gives you double the number of cruise trips for their rewards program if you go solo and pay couple's rates. That is how I went up in their rewards program so quickly. Still would rather they had solo cabins and more solo focused deals... Anyway, something to also consider when comparing a couple's room with a solo cabin, if the price difference isn't much you might be better off taking the couple cabin as a solo for the rewards.

[@jeffreyclinard2002]

I made Elite on Princess and Diamond Plus on Royal with the double points.

[@tuvia4082]

Gary, you always nail it! Keep up the great work!

[@teresajarkowska5792]

I travel solo and have come to the conclusion that my age and the advantages of transport to ports means that SAGA more than suits me. I always eat in the dining room and ask to be placed with others. The last time I did the pre-dinner singles meet up and subsequently found regular evening dining companions. The loneliest I have ever been were on Celebrity and Holland America who had no interest in solos and, despite saying there would be activities for them, there were none. The Celebrity fixed dining meant being on a table where the others frequently didn’t turn up and one night I found myself sitting alone on a table for eight and the wait staff made no effort to find me another table, they thought it was funny and were incredibly patronising. The UK lines, as you said, seem to be better. My only cruise on Fred Olsen was fabulous despite being on a ship much in need of millions being spent on it and a crap cabin .. all because solos were taken better care of. I would use them again for a Liverpool sailing.

[@barbaralazier8352]

I am in my mid-70s and travel solo. I always pack a handwork project and have found that as I work many people will come up and either join me or ask good questions. I meet many dinner companions that way. Don’t you think that as more of us solo travellers want to cruise, the cruise lines will need to start paying more attention to us. I was just on a Celebrity Cruise to Iceland and was able to get to a solo cabin.😊

[@HBCruising14]

Excellent video with excellent advice as always. My comments: * Themed cruises are great (I've done two and have three more scheduled) and some have ways to reduce the single tax. * I've sailed more solo cruises on Carnival than any other line. Even though they don't cater to us, they must do something right. * I've never sailed on a cruise that gave me points for participating in events onboard. I'll have to investigate further.

[@cruisegal4991]

I am getting ready to be a solo cruiser and appreciate the information. Especially, the advice about dining options. That was a concern. Thank you.

[@menlo12000]

Good video. I have good luck on seabourn travelling solo. Sometimes have reduced supplement. Best part is the onboard experience is great , including inviting solo travellers to hosted tables for dinner.

[@melanezoe]

Another thing you might mention is that if you do get partnered with a stranger is you can request separate twin beds. The stewards can accommodate that quickly.

[@gerrymanning1766]

Yesterday i finished a 22 night cruise from Barcelona to Dubai on the new Costa Toscana, it cost me around 850 sterling for an outside cabin, travelling solo. I paid around the same for a inside cabin on the Costa Diadema round trip from Barcelona for 15 nights that included Istanbul, three months ago. In March i will be travelling solo again from Rio to Tarragona in Spain for around 750 sterling (inside cabin) on the Costa Fortuna. I know Costa gets a bad wrap, but if you book in advance there are deals to be had travelling solo with them. I agree about the size of the ship, Toscana is a beautiful ship, but to big for me. I am on the new Firenze in May from Barcelona to Kiel (about 850 sterling) for 15 nights in a inside cabin but i think in future i will stick with the smaller Costa ships.

[@rmpa5727]

I've found that carnival cruise line doesn't recognize solo cruisers when it comes to points per night, they simply allocate 1 point per night regardless if you are solo or 2 people or more. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean do at least give you a extra point for staying in a non solo statesroom.

[@twfinc6855]

what you say makes sense, like going to a big massive resort solo you just get swallowed up, but if you go to a small resort single you will have a LOT more fun... much much easy to get to know others and make friends

[@katechen9458]

Thank you for the information. I saw the cruise industry changed a little, but still feel not do enough for the solo cruisers. Hope the situation will be better.

[@Archermit]

I'm going on my first ever cruise soon and I'm going solo. But I am one of those people that's happy to make my own fun. I will happily chill by the pool or head to one of teh bars

[@Ape4Apes]

Thanks, Gary. This aspiring solo cruiser always appreciates tips for our tribe. After 3 years of waiting (and multiple cancellations), I’ll finally be cruising with Saga next May. And I just put down a deposit for a 2025 Oceania transpacific cruise (100% single supplement 😢). I rely a lot on your videos to understand which cruise lines are a good choice for me.

[@cindysju]

I am going as a solo on the Jazz Cruise on the Celebrity Millennium. They opened up 10 balcony rooms on deck 10 for singles, perfectly located next to the fitness center and spa. Previously I was a solo in an inside cabin for the Jazz Cruise. I’m not a big fan of inside cabins, so this was a terrific opportunity to switch to a balcony. On theme cruises, like the Jazz Cruise, there are always people that you can talk to who share your passion for the subject at hand. I am really looking forward to it!

[@annamelanie5151]

The most useful, informative, and enjoyable video on YT related to travel. Thank you so much

[@energetica346]

Thank you so much. So very useful. It looks like I'll be doing a solo Mariella cruise this Xmas and NY as a big birthday treat.

[@andreagriffiths3512]

I’m def an introvert and I’m going on my first solo cruise and my second cruise overall. I’m planning on doing a lot of reading and relaxing and taking strolls around the ship…when I’m not doing shore tours. A chance to be on my own and do my own thing will be lovely. But I shall try to pluck up nerve to talk to people and do group activities.

[@MakerTom2022]

I've never considered a solo cruise, but might now. I do most things solo, and am happiest at home for the most part. Thanks for your research on this! New subscriber

[@traceymarshall5886]

Virgin voyages currently have zero supplement for solo cruisers. On sail away they have a solo party on deck 16. Then they have dinner together in the razzle dazzle on the 1st night which is organised by virgin