I CRUISED IN A TINY CABIN - My Norwegian Solo Cruiser Experience

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I just took a 7 day cruise in a 99 square foot cabin on the NCL Getaway. This was my first NCL Solo Cabin experience. The cabin is in the restricted Studio cabin area on the ship and includes access to the Studio Lounge. Join as we take a deep dive in to the Norwegian cruise line solo cruiser experience.
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[@LaLidoLoca]

Sponsored by Blinkist: Use my special link to start your free 7 day trial with Blinkist and get 25% off a Premium membership: www.blinkist.com/lalidoloca

[@debbichrissinger9764]

Better than Cliff Notes

[@Exodus26.13Pi]

I was bigger than you and these helped me lose 100lbs in a couple years naturally. Blessings! Supplements: Magnesium carbonate powder, Vit.D, L-theanine, taurine , NAC, and fiber. Recovery: Inclined Sleep Therapy *free Exercise: *Rebounder* Food: Lean chicken/turkey replaces unhealthy calories Dentist gum cleaning -Healthy Old Man

[@soremekun]

More cruise ships should have more solo cabins.

[@kentrobinson7479]

YEP

[@kellyc1578]

Many lines do have “solo” cabin categories (Royal, HAL, MSC) what those don’t have is the ship within a ship concept with a lounge and access to a dedicated solo coordinator (which is a perk depending on your needs). But you’re right, this has been very successful for NCL so others are finally starting to market more to solos.

[@carolcatchychanneltipsandt1448]

Tony- that is a great marketing opportunity - especially Woman over or at 50 .:)

[@joangehr3150]

@@carolcatchychanneltipsandt1448 why fifty?

[@carolcatchychanneltipsandt1448]

@@joangehr3150 I belong to a group of solo woman travelers . And a lot of them are newly divorced, widowed , or retiring and often they talk about rates always being double rated . And the would like to travel but would not be comfortable rooming with a stranger . This would be good for Solo Men in that position as well.

[@wwaxwork]

As a woman that often travels alone, having the extra security of it being a seperate area is very appealing.

[@GhettoGirlTravels]

I’m on the NCL Bliss (Alaskan) June 8th. I’ll post what it’s like!

[@BillMattson]

The solo cabin is also great for two friends traveling together. Yes some of them even connect. The advantage is you each get your own space and your own bathroom.

[@fritzsadventure1320]

So you can do 2 people in a solo cabin?

[@xfhnhhgjbvcfg]

@@fritzsadventure1320 he's saying each person get a cabin. I believe

[@BillMattson]

@@xfhnhhgjbvcfg you are correct. each person would get there own solo cabin.

[@DebDebbiesWorld]

@@fritzsadventure1320 no. only one per cabin. BUT the cost is roughly half of a standard balcony cabin, so if traveling with a friend... I'd personally opt for sharing a standard balcony room (assuming you know/like them enough to share a room)

[@larkc7677]

This is a great idea for solo cruisers. I don’t want to share a cabin with a friend or stranger.

[@rdgreeley]

I’m so impressed. I’m also introverted and need quiet. Sleep is most important, so knowing it is 1) dark, 2) cooler, and 3) quiet in the halls is awesome. I also LOVE the private lounge. Thanks for a great review! I’m saving this video.

[@catsrus2890]

I'm a big NCL solo cabin cruiser and I love them! The solo lounges are great and it's so much fun hanging out with the solos... going to dinner and shows and meeting new friends from all over the world. 🤗

[@rko12586]

I think these solo cabins seem great but I agree about having access to the ocean if you typically cruise with a balcony. It would be great if NCL could design the solo cruiser area to have a private deck or windows off the lounge area for all the solo cruisers to share. I think that would make it perfect for solo cruisers.

[@ShariPosey]

They do now. The Epic offers solo balcony rooms for about 1/3 more money. I haven't seen any videos about it though.

[@tanishaw8628]

I will be doing my first solo cruise in May on the Encore in a Solo balcony. I normally do inside cabins when going with family/friends because we're only in there to sleep. However, my solo cruise is to Alaska so I'm soo happy that they had a solo balcony cabin.

[@JanetsJourneys]

I absolutely love the studio cabin option and how NCL adds even more to the solo cruiser experience with our own concierge. Also, the price point is huge for me!

[@KS-qp2ml]

Price I need to kno

[@FraserAtSea]

Totally agree - NCL was my first cruise and I was SO impressed!

[@ekimnosettam]

I have said before, the studio cabin I had on the Escape is my favorite cabin. I do get missing a balcony, but as a solo cruiser the savings far outweighs the lack of views. Now if they were to add studio balcony cabins...

[@rebrown8]

RCL Anthem of the Seas has studios with both real and virtual balconies, I am booked on one with a real balcony in the spring.

[@travelinginminniepearl3699]

I have been on 4 solo NCL cruise ships: Getaway, Breakaway, Escape and Bliss and love these solo cabins. What sets NCL apart for me is that they have great outside decks for walking around and lounge chairs every where. When I am not in my solo cabin, I can enjoy these spaces. Give it a try. It is worth it! The Studio lounge is also perfect for early morning coffee before going up top.

[@traveler320ak7]

I do like the idea of a quick coffee in the morning while getting ready to go up.

[@SIGCruiser]

Woo hoo! As a solo cruiser who hasn't sailed a solo cabin yet, I've been waiting for this!!!

[@dougreandmore]

same here doing it on 9-29-22 on NCL Getaway

[@KS-qp2ml]

So sept u cruising????

[@nan-sea3814]

hated it- never again

[@dougreandmore]

@@nan-sea3814 Why...details help a lot more that just hating it...

[@sallyshort7255]

On the Norwegian Epic, the studio rooms do have two tiny, smaller than twin, beds pushed together. I could feel the split on my first cruise, and they gave me a mattress pad which made the bed more comfortable but made the narrow walkway between the bed and closets even narrower. On my second Epic cruise, 16-day transatlantic, I couldn’t feel the split and was comfortable. After 16 days in the tiny cabin, I definitely figured out how to work the space and have it functional. I almost wouldn’t know what to do with larger space. I definitely liked the quiet hallway, and that was something I missed on my Carnival cruise back in March. PRO TIP: If you don’t like bright lights at night, take your card out of the holder thing so the toilet room light doesn’t automatically turn on. It’s motion activated. Use a flashlight or mini electric candle instead.

[@teams3345]

I think they are great for people by themselves and/or have minimal budgets. Better than having to pay for a double room when cruising solo. Great concept by NCL.

[@KarynHill]

That's probably the only thing I would consider a drawback-no quiet place to watch the ocean at any time of the day. For me, more than the ports, experiencing the ocean really makes the cruise experience for me. I've always loved water and just sitting there with the ocean makes me feel peaceful and happy. Unless it's noisy and crowded, which it is everywhere on a ship except for the balconies. I still might do this some day, though.

[@dgroppel]

NCL has expanded their solo cabin offerings to include balconies and ocean views. These cabins aren't in the cordoned off area like the inside cabins are, but they do have access to the Studio Lounge.

[@barblibrarian]

Great review. I was on the Epic for a crafting cruise, definitely without my husband. I was in a solo cabin and agree almost 100% with you. One thing for me - I am an introvert. Escaping to my solo cabin was wonderful. So quiet, I honestly didn’t miss the balcony. That shocked me. But I loved my little solo cabin cocoon. Since I am not single, as you are not, I tested out the solo events but didn’t really get involved. I felt they were really ideal for the single person looking to meet people. I had my craft group, too. Tony, love all your videos and you did a great job on this review.

[@margio1152]

Excellent video! Loved the amenities, esp the double decker lounge, coffees, munchies, meetup board, etc. Love the exclusivity of locked wing for guests only. And that these cabins are on decks 10 & 11 forward and not in the bowels of the ship. It doesn't make the solo traveler feel ostracized or an afterthought that has to be accommodated. But rather a valued and special guest. I will definitely look into travelling in solo cabin in future. Very detailed review. Appreciate that you shared your actual costs too. Thanks Tony!! 🎉

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Yes I like the idea about the solo cabins and a lounge and have actually been on two different Norwegians that have them. I like to feel valued instead of ostracized as a solo and with like-minded people sometimes

[@dianej1714]

Great review, Tony. What I loved was the quiet, the great sleep & no kids running up & down the halls. The 1st thing I noticed about the lounge was no ocean views, which would stop me from spendng time there, unless I had to work. I started out in interior cabins in 2018. Once I went to a balcony, no turning back.

[@traceyvalcy7992]

No...turning...back.

[@MrJimmy-ox7fq]

Excellent review! I've stayed in all cabin types over the years on HAL, Carnival, NCL, Celebrity, etc. etc. When I first stayed in a Solo Cabin on the NCL Breakaway, I worried about claustrophobia; but it turned out not to be a problem with the "illusion" of a Port Hole window. It had plenty of space (for one), and I slept great. Plus, with the exclusive "Hallway Access", I found that you could really have a quiet place even when the ship was at full capacity. I would definitely recommend a Solo cabin for single travelers. Keep up the good work. By the way, you certainly are looking fit and healthy these days! Best of luck in all your travels.

[@tammarabg8174]

Thank you for giving a complete tour and explanation. I would really like this kind of space. I am a solo traveler. I have participated in NCL's solo get-togethers (there were no solo cabins at that time). It was nice to meet similar minded travelers, share stories and get recommendations for things to see on the current trip and for other places as well.

[@spydude38]

I can see this being very popular for solo cruisers. Great review.

[@ve2vfd]

I've sailed solo cabins on the NCL Epic, Breakaway, Getaway, Escape and Bliss several times and absolutely love them. Looking forward to sailing the Getaway again for a B2B in a few weeks. I love that the Epic and *away twins have a bar in their lounge, but the lounge is just too small on the *away twins. They got rid of the porthole on the Bliss and newer ships and replaced it with a TV "virtual porthole" and I can't wait to see the new modified solo studios on the Prima in a few months.

[@historylover13]

Great and accurate review! I've taken six solo cruises with NCL and I absolutely love the accommodation. I do not miss the ocean view one bit, as when I'm ready to relax and read, I find a comfy lounge chair or couch along the side of the ship with a wide-open view of the water. These are very quiet spaces and I sit and enjoy my drink and soak in the atmosphere. When I go to my cabin, it's to sleep or change clothing, etc. I agree that the storage is plentiful (and I bring lots of clothes and shoes), and there's plenty of space to stow whatever you bring. You cannot beat the price - it's a real value vacation that feels first class. Have fun if you decide to take one of these solo cruises!!

[@Bgen9472]

How is meeting other solo cruisers like? Does NCL do a good job of encouraging solo travelers to meet?

[@sharonsampson4380]

You are not a “fat man”! You are a ‘portly “ gentleman, and a handsome one at that!!!

[@ruthiesmith2513]

Thank you for a great comprehensive review! 🤗 I hope that other lines will make solo cabins part of their design plan and hopefully with ocean view or balcony options! 👍🏻

[@AllisonMetcalfPalumbo]

Agreed! My mom would love a solo cabin if it had a balcony.

[@davidcichra1373]

You are right Tony, once you get a balcony you never want to go back.

[@bsg111987]

Royal Caribbean has some solo balcony cabins on their newer ships!

[@eminiarvii]

@@AllisonMetcalfPalumbo i am traveling on the Celebrity Beyond in a solo infinite verandah for a total of 187 ft. I am that older woman who has been cruising since 1972, this will be my first solo cabin. I am looking forward to this, as i would not be able to go otherwise😊

[@dianelalley789]

@@eminiarvii Thanks for the info re: Celebrity with solo/verandah. Great news! I am in the same boat - pun intended!

[@ronaldmiller6292]

Tony, in 2017 I also experienced the solo cabin on NCLA’s Pride of America around the Hawaiian Islands for 7 days. Mine was one of 4 such solo cabins surrounding a small solo lounge, accessible by a door in my cabin. It was great I thought. It must have been one of NCL’s first attempts at the solo cabin idea.

[@rebrown8]

I believe NCL added the PoA studios during a dry dock after their success in the Breakaway class ships.

[@angielovett4159]

Tony you do an excellent’ cruise review! Seriously LOVE all the details you cover. You answer questions, I didn’t know I had! Really well done, thank you!

[@cubemissy]

Thanks! I am planning to cruise solo soon, and I had been a little worried about accommodations. I could easily work with this cabin, but my major wish for cruising is to have a quiet place to sit, read, and watch the waves. I’ll have to stick with a cabin that has a balcony.

[@sunsetwatcher5368]

Awesome and comprehensive review! Thank you. Love the private lounge area (and especially the convenient availability of coffee!!). Size of the room would not be a deal breaker for me if I were traveling solo. However, I would have to think long and hard about booking such a stateroom since an anytime view of the ocean, preferably from a balcony, is so much a part of the cruise experience that I love.

[@nurzebetty692]

I would definitely cruise solo for that price and those perks. Thanks for the review, great information!

[@joentexas]

WoW, does that passageway carpet have the same optical illusion in person as it does in your recording? Damn, that made dizzy. Great review, comprehensive that will probably sell some Solo rooms. Not a preference for me though if that's all I had in my pocket I'll take it. Also, all my years at sea I finally have a word to describe my affinity for going to sea. It's the majesty of the sea. Good stuff, Tony. Thanks.

[@nancyperry1791]

Loved the atmosphere… yes the lighting is just like that

[@raypierce5818]

Tony… you are SUCH a rockstar! This is so totally where I would be. Thank you for allowing me to view the experience as a solo cruisers.

[@johnbushee45]

Tony your content is great as usual, I view small inside cabins as I do tiny homes. People need choices for what they can afford & be happy with!!!. Personally I had an inside over 25 yrs ago not for me. The smell of the ocean off the balcony the view as well. Last simple fact for all your viewers usually the better the cabin & its perks the more time you spend their. You truly feel your on an exclusive vacation. John 🛳⛴🚢

[@margaretbradshaw2780]

I did a solo cabin on the Epic in 2017 and loved it. The lounge was a great place to meet people and the concierge did a fantastic job getting groups together for dinner seating and the shows.

[@DianneOrwig333]

I am head over heals for this cabin experience! So glad you did this video Tony, because I’ve now decided that for my annual mom/daughter cruise will be on NCL in two separate solo cabins. It’s such a perfect solution for both of us to have privacy and separate nap/sleep freedom, but at the same time having an exclusive area to enjoy. Amazing cabin, I absolutely love it. And thank you so much for the link to Blinkerst. Can’t wait to dive in and I greatly appreciate the discount 👍

[@mike07646]

Keep in mind that the "full length mirror" that was displayed in the video is actually a door to a connecting room (on some of the solo cabins), so if you wanted you could get two solo cabins next to each other and be able to easily walk between (if you wanted) and yet still have privacy when needed.

[@DianneOrwig333]

@@mike07646 WOW this is even better! Thanks for the great tip!

[@ealymc]

I'll be in one of these in about 10 days! As a fellow big man, I'm glad to see it worked out for you. Looking forward to it!

[@ninagalvani1007]

Everything caters to couples generally so this is awesome.

[@kittygrace2]

Don't forget Virgin includes a lot of those charges in their base price. I'd been excluding them because they seemed so expensive compared to others until you do the "real" comparison. But I love your review of the solo on the Getaway, I've sailed on her before but I'm now traveling solo so this would be a great option. As always, thanks for the great info!

[@NauticalNurseNancy]

What a wonderful review of a solo cabin on NCL, Tony!! This was a very good insight into these cabins and I was amazed that you didn't feel claustrophobic by the cabin. It looks ideal for a solo cruiser! Thanks so much for all you do for this community!

[@LaLidoLoca]

Thanks Nancy

[@kellyblake8044]

I love the idea of the lounge area for solo travelers. Traveling solo is becoming more popular around the world and there is definitely an emphasis on meeting other people, learning about new states, countries, etc. I would give this a try. Thanks for the experience breakdown

[@MikeRogers483]

From one introvert to another, I love your introverted perspective. Thanks dude.

[@belindan4974]

👏🏼 I’ve sailed in the solo cabins on both the Getaway and the Escape. Really enjoyed both ships’ accommodations. Staying in an inside just means you need to get out and about and have a fun time. 😃 Thank you for always sharing. ⚓️🌴

[@jacquimg2469]

I wondered if I could spend 7 days in that cabin. “Once you have a balcony cabin you can’t go back” is true for me. The ocean experience is foremost for me too. I like ordering coffee and sweet rolls for breakfast and sitting on the balcony looking out onto the ocean. Experiencing the vastness and power of the sea is cathartic. The 99 square foot cabin is certainly well designed. The private lounge is a great touch. But the ocean over rides these perks. I travel alone and I pay double for a balcony.

[@SandyToes75]

Hoping cruise lines will see interest in and notice comments about the ocean. Maybe the lounge could be external with a larger balcony space to sit, maybe a high top shelf table and stools?), something their engineers can design that will allow multiple guest to enjoy the ocean. NCL really listened to their guests. Good to see other lines starting to enter the solo cabin area. Maybe in the next 10 yrs we will have all the lines offering many categories of cabins for guests. This would be a well utilized portion of square footage development on future ships.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

And you pay double for balcony, make sure if you don’t pay double the port charges since I heard sometimes unless you’re aware of it they charge double and they are not supposed to you’re only one person

[@jacquimg2469]

@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 Royal Caribbean has been fair with me.

[@joelwasinger]

Just wanted to say a big thank you. I’m 6’7”, 320, and it’s nice to hear the big man’s perspective. 😊 I haven’t cruised, but my daughter wants me to join her and her husband on their anniversary cruise next year. It’s nice to know this option is available and to see and hear that it might work for me. Looking forward to seeing more on your channel.

[@bruceslack6288]

Thank you, Tony. We booked our son a Solo cabin on the Breakaway for his 21st birthday. Granted This was supposed to be his Graduation cruise for 2020 and his birthday is in October so he'll get a double party.

[@sharkar8]

Hey, hey, hey. I enjoy your videos. Some are just totally cranky and can make us more frustrated. Thanks for being on positive notes even in a 99 square foot room. Sometimes I wonder about your friend Don, he gets upset too quick. Enjoy your day 🌊⚓️🌊🛳🌊🌴🌊

[@mikethompson3710]

Excellent report/review Tony! While I doubt I'll ever cruise solo (I'd like to have a home to return to post cruise) For a 7 day cruise I think that's a great value. It sure sounds like you enjoyed the experience and I have faith in your impressions of cruising. Thanks!

[@clutchv9156]

I think this is a good idea. This gives the solo person a chance to cruise without the double occupancy fees. Thanks for the comprehensive review.

[@maxinebarrett9919]

I did that experience a few years ago. Great opportunity for a solo traveler. Still in touch with people I met on that cruise.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Yes, I’m still in touch with two people that I met on the Norwegian solo cabin lounge

[@ychaps]

I did the solo cabin on the norwegian epic and I loved it. I didn't take advantage of the lounge because my family were with me in their own balcony cabin, but I loved having my own little nest. Not really much different to a regular inside cabin...just a bit cheaper at the time. I wish all ships had them. Would definitely do it again..

[@debbiechristy9960]

What an absolutely great solo cruiser program!! The price, special designated area and amenities - such a deal, literally!! Thank you for cruising this special solo program and sharing with us!!

[@gregparkes633]

Tony, another great review. I’ve stayed in an NCL solo cabin several times. I liked it, but like you said, now prefer the balcony cabins. Thanks!

[@markt.3454]

Great review, Tony!!! If I ever end up cruising solo I'll certainly be looking for one of these. We're primary NCL cruisers, so it's great to see.

[@gaslight2024]

Great review! I've been wondering what the solo cabins and lounge were like.

[@cruisingcarrolls6523]

Very neat that they accommodate solo cruisers that way! My husband and I have enjoyed your videos and wanted to thank you for keeping us up to date on all things cruising! We recently discovered that your upcoming group cruise on NCL Encore is the same dates & itinerary as ours so maybe we will see you there!

[@mike07646]

The "solo travelers meet and greet" is normally the first night of the cruise, around 5 or 6pm, with other events on the schedule throughout the cruise. If you don't want to participate in that then just go off and do your own thing. I've sailed solo cabins 5 times so far with NCL and I can choose to participate or not depending on my mood. Some trips I just go off on my own and some I try to get into some of the group events for things like Laser Tag, the Ice Bar, or going to a specialty show or restaurant. The lounge can vary based on the trip and the crowd. I've been on cruises where it's dead silent/empty and I've been on ones where there seems to always be 2-3 people hanging out watching TV or drinking coffee. I love the lounge to get a quick drink of water or a small snack (cookies) late at night before going to bed, or grab an orange juice in the morning before heading to excursions (and skipping a full breakfast if I need to). Oh, and the "window" is replaced by a TV screen that can show you the 'view from the bridge' which is also a quick way in the morning to see what the weather/clouds are like outside before you even get out of bed. Regarding the sleep, I totally agree. You can black out the room incredibly well and get the most amazing and quiet sleep ever.

[@moelladevil]

Thank you for this Tony, I really appreciate this video. Yes, I would love to have a solo cabin. I hope they start making more solo balcony cabins. They are very difficult to come by. Thanks again 🙏

[@donnamiglino3623]

Tony, thank you for sharing. You definitely convince me. I can't wait to go a cruise on NCL and get a solo cabin. I'm a fluffy person as well and by you sharing this you have put my mind at ease. I enjoy all of you and Jenny's video's. Please don't stop.

[@matthewferrick3288]

I love NCL solo cabins. Your right, the beds are fantastic and they get super dark and are quiet. The Bliss has a virtual window. There is a camera so when you open the shade you see the ocean. Our solo cruise director gets us show tickets and makes dinner reservations for whoever wants to go. I stay in touch with some solos I've met and we still cruise together.

[@DJourney87]

I'm so glad you were able to experience this! I have a solo NCL cruise in January and I couldn't find ANY other relaible videos about this!

[@allen9069]

That close by lounge for the solo cabins would make it worthwhile!

[@dianelalley789]

Thank you, Tony. I have signed up for a 7 day cruise in a solo cabin to see if I feel comfortable/safe cruising alone as well as if I can handle an inside cabin. I have always said I'd only cruise as long as I can afford a balcony. I still think I may feel that way. So, I will look forward to hearing about availability of solo cabins with a small balcony,

[@toyawomble2810]

I love it Tony. My first solo sailing was on Escape and I loved it very much. Especially with the lights that you can change to different colors. The cabin was more than enough for one person. And the lounge, it was awesome!

[@floridacycling4842]

One of our adult sons did a similar solo on the NCL Epic back in 2018 and was very complimentary of the cabin and the overall experience.

[@leslietrent3682]

Tony i always get a solo cabin. The best sleep. It doesn't bother me about seeing the sun raise because i am up and go directly to get my coffee and watch the sun come up. Will be on the Epic from February 5th-26th 2023 in my solo cabin. I really enjoy my space.

[@user-xs9fp3ic9y]

Thanks for the great review it gives a good insight into solo cruising. I’m very out going and friendly but I still feel apprehensive about going cruising alone. I’m used to travelling alone haven’t been brave enough to book a cruise yet.

[@geminiots2121]

I book this room for my cruise in 2023. What I like about the solo cabins is the private access area. When you are a woman traveling alone it can sometimes be daunting. I do like that the only people in your hallway are other solo travelers. In my package I included the flights, pre and post hotel stays, transfers, and travel insurance. I figure I'd get it through the cruiseline as if something happens, it can be remedied quicker. Plus I was going to do it separately anyways, why not just do it through my cruise to set that up. Also, since traveling solo, I'm not rushing all over the place like a crazy person. I just want to walk in with minimal inconvenience. I'm so glad to hear that you said the room was really quiet. I meant I want vacation sleep and be completely rested to enjoy the day. I tend to wake up super early anyways, so getting a good night's sleep. I can't wait to go. I'm getting all gear up and excited. Thanks for creating your content. It's helping me feel more comfortable with cruising and getting me familiar with what to expect.

[@barbb]

I have stayed twice in these solo cabins. I love them! It is a great cabin as you pointed out, and the lounge is great. I did partake in the solo activities,lots of different people made up they group. It was nice having company at dinner and for the shows. Great video, thank you .

[@craighellberg4366]

Great video. as much as I like a cabin with a balcony I could see myself doing and inside solo cabin. But being retired and very flexible with dates I sometimes can get a balcony cabin for not much more than a solo cabin at the last minute before the ship sails as they want to sell those rooms.

[@johnlund2654]

This video was and is very informative. Thanks Tony!

[@tammieotto7690]

Tony, thank you very much for posting. In celebration of my upcoming retirement, I am planning on treating myself to a solo cruise. I was looking at a Norwegian cruise in a solo cabin. Your video is very timely as well as informative. I enjoyed the video and greatly appreciate your insights.

[@dmoore7519]

I could solo also. You only use a cabin for the 3 S’s: S, shower and shave. Sleep if you build sleep into your schedule.

[@dicknijenhuis9894]

I just got back from a New England / Maritime cruise on the Breakaway in a Studio cabin. As with you, I loved everything about the studios. The white board and the lounge weren't huge focal points considering the number of solos but the solo meetups were listed in our daily planner. Because they were daily at 5:30 in the Bliss lounge, it was easy to plan for and attend. We had a fluctuating group of 10 - 20 people every day with most being regulars. Ages ranged from 40 - 75+ with all different life experiences. Our solo director had a large table reserved every day at 6pm in Manhatten for any of us that wanted to go. On our own a number of us did lunches, etc together. Even though I received constant emails to upgrade, I decided to stick with a studio just to experience it. Because the solo meetups are listed in your daily planner at a public venue, you didn't have to be in a studio cabin to join. The only requirement was you needed to be a solo traveler.

[@critterrunranch]

thank you I was wondering about this

[@karenjordan5731]

Loved this video, thanks for taking on the challenge. I would feel safe and comfy cruising by myself that way. However, I am just like you, in that it is the sea that I crave on my balcony...am and pm! Thanks for taking the plunge Tony!

[@geneoreilly4879]

Thank you for making this video. It is the first video of this kind that I have seen. I am considering making a solo trip within the next year so your content has been tremendously informative for me. Gracias Amigo.

[@eleanor4482]

Great deal for sure. My first cruise I did an interior and never again. Nothing like seeing the water. I see Princess is having a Casino sale from NY to Canada and New England and the solo all-included price for a balcony is about $1200

[@traveler320ak7]

I’m gunna have to check it out!

[@thesteamingbean.]

I appreciate hearing how much clothes you pack.

[@chrysvest4746]

You had me at “Free specialty coffee….”

[@BarbaraSchranz]

Being a short squat woman, I was relieved to hear you talk about the shower and toilet space. Have been in too many European hotels with trendy bathrooms (translation: how do we shove a bathroom into a small room) and get frustrated with the 'fat man squeeze' doors on the showers and toilets shoe horned into narrow ares. Booked on a solo studio on NCL Breakaway in December for 2 week repositioning cruise. You helped put some of my concerns to rest.

[@jrtmanmd]

Sounded like a good value, but I like you have the need to see the sea! I love being able to look out over the sea, and feel and sell the sea air.

[@audreyholmes9913]

Tony I notice how much your complexion has improved. Your skin is looking fresh and glowing. Could be you are drinking more water and less soda? Keep it up 👍🏻

[@peyo670]

Did it on the encore and loved it. Have another one one the getaway booked

[@SIGCruiser]

As a solo cruiser, I think this is a great option for some. But I do think it will depend on the individual (as it does for any experience). I do want to experience this for myself (a don't knock it if you haven't tried it type of thing). I know I'd prefer a regular size room and doubt that I would use the solo lounge, and I'm extremely introverted and prefer being outdoors as much as possible on a ship. But you never know. My opinion might change with actual experience. Looking forward to trying this. Thanks for sharing!🙂

[@travelinginminniepearl3699]

Try it first. You don’t have to participate in activities and or join with the other solo travelers. I pretty much stick to myself too. I thought the lounge would be a party place but actually it is quiet. I am an early morning person and most of the time I would get coffee by myself. The NCL ships have many outside quiet decks to grab a chair and read if you like that.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

I am mostly an introvert and the solo cabin I found a few other buddies to have meals with or a go places with when we were at port but I didn’t feel like I had to hang with them.

[@pambetancourt2345]

Thanks Tony for the great review and always keeping us up to date! I would LOVE to try the solo cabin at some point! Keep on Cruising! 🚢

[@rebrown8]

I agree with everything you said. I wish NCL would have some studios with a balcony. One disadvantage in the past has been if you booked a studio you were not eligible to bid on an upgrade. That changed - on my recent cruise on Pride of America I booked a studio and was able to bid on and won an upgrade to a balcony. Not sure if this is fleet wide change or strictly a PoA occurrence.

[@johnmoore3504]

POA is currently understaffed so they are sailing at 40% capacity thus tons of availability which might explain the easy upgrade. Just returned from our 7 day vacation, it was wonderful since the ship feels empty - great way to see the Hawaiian islands 👍🏼😎

[@gc4644]

Im going solo on the Bliss to Alaska in May, and wondering if I should bid for an upgrade to a balcony. If i do, how much should I bid for the upgrade?

[@rebrown8]

@@gc4644 I always bid more than the minimum and really just base my bid on my budget. Just remember as a solo the price you pay is double your bid. So, if you are willing to pay $300 to upgrade, you should bid $150. On PoA I was willing to pay $500, so I bid $250.

[@brianfoster4434]

I'm heading out on NCL Breakaway in on 2/5/2023 in a solo studio cabin ..... I'm so looking forward to it.!

[@powerwalkwithmybaby]

What a neat little room.. - I have travelled numerous times across the country Vancouver/Toronto by train, where I stayed in a roomette, as it takes 4 days to get there.. - It is very compact, even more than this.. - But you arrange things as you like them, and then you’re on your way.. - I have no problem with small enclosures,, they can be very comfortable.. - I would love to sail away in one of these studios, and the price is reasonable..🌷

[@MsTrae62]

I have stayed in the solo cabin before. I loved it as well. It would have been nice if the lounge had a balcony or outdoor space.

[@traveler320ak7]

That would be perfect!!

[@susandidonato380]

Absolutely 💯 love the studio cabins.

[@janetj3072]

The solo cabin is something i will look in to

[@debbiemartin6714]

Pleasantly surprised!

[@deeplou1]

Couple of years ago, wife & I had adjoining solo cabins on the EPIC. Worked out great. Great price, we had separate showers & W/Cs. And lots of room for storage (even with the scuba gear I drag along

[@Leeterry52]

Will be booking my first cruise in a solo cabin soon and Norwegian looks the best . love the room.

[@meredithjenkins6308]

This will be my first solo cabin, I've been cruising with a balcony for a long time. I am hopeful I love it. You have been encouraging. Thank you!

[@chepo44]

Awesome information, I would like it. Yes, I agree the ocean view from a balcony will be missed 😂. We’re spoiled.

[@DetourswithJeff]

Editing my Studio Video now! Great job brother and nice meeting you!

[@bethbatt2081]

I just (last night) booked a room like this for a cruise to Alaska in October. It will be on the Encore so I'll have the virtual view instead of the huge porthole. I nearly declined the drink package because I'm not a huge drinker and felt I could just pay if I drank but then I did the math and realized at once cocktail a day I'd break even there. Never been on a cruise and really looking forward to my first vacation in 3 years and the first time I've traveled solo (which I really love) in about ten! Thank you for this video; I am also a larger person and you set my mind at ease there.

[@traceyvalcy7992]

Once I cruised in a balcony...I swore, that I'd never go back inside...I haven't. I agree with you, it's all about seeing the ocean, quiet time on the ocean, sunrise, sunset. Honestly, I can get Into my balcony so much, I don't even need to leave my room except to eat. I went on a 4day cruise and never left the ship! Cruising is all about the sea to me. Thanks for all you do!

[@prettygeorgialady1249]

What a great review with the ups and downs. I would consider a solo cruise after watching this. Thanks for the insight!

[@planner722]

I wonder if cruises will ever embrace the “Pod” sleeping arrangements that was made popular in Japan and is now seen more and more around the world.

[@jacquimeier800]

I've been in a solo cabin on the Getaway. Just booked one again for November. Loved it!