The 10 Things I Do Differently as a Solo Cruiser vs. Non-Solo Cruising

When I go on a cruise by myself or as a solo cruiser, my cruising style is very different than when I go with others. If I am with others, I can't get away with the same behaviors and routines that I have as a solo cruiser. Non-solo cruising requires compromises and more "normal" behavior that others are comfortable with, not just what I have become accustomed.
Depending on if you are switching from a solo cruise to cruising with others, this video will help you understand how your cruising experience might be different.
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[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Solo cruisers! What do you do differently?

[@TravelsbyTeena]

Well, like you, I also go to bed early, but I wake up (without an alarm clock) usually by 5:00 am the latest. I then shower and do my hair and makeup before I even leave my room for a cup of tea. I'm not a water/pool person, nor am I a sun worshipper, so I'd prefer to look my best while enjoying everything else that the ship has to offer. But I have to say that I do LOVE the Martini Bar on Celebrity Reflection.

[@mariavano9616]

I haven't actually cruised with others, only solo, but I've traveled with others. While watching your video, I got to thinking about my last cruise -- I think if I'd been with others, I wouldn't have "made friends" with the bartenders, such that I'd get a good shot of bailey's thrown in my non-alcoholic drink (that everyone was drinking for some reason) and not being included in my drinks package....making buddies with waitstaff, and the workers in the casino or chatting with the sommelier at the wine bar (I also write about wine, so it's always an instant connection) -- I don't think you get those opportunities when you're in a group. The workers seem to tend to watch out for you, I think. I wandered into the theater where it was quiet and there were rehearsals going on. I just sat in the back and relaxed and watched. Can't do that in a group :-)

[@MrJscott1986]

I'll go with you!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@mariavano9616 I like to think the crew watches out for us solo folks too :-)

[@AnthonyPerrotta-c3y]

I make sure if new people sit near me that I'm always first to say hello....SO not me but where else can I take myself out of my usual comfort zone 'comfortably'?

[@meadsummer6547]

I never cruised solo until I started watching your channel, Brandon. I've now cruised solo twice with two more cruises planned for this year, although my solo cruises are longer (Alaska this summer and Hawaii this fall). The best thing about cruising solo is being able to do whatever you want without having to negotiate with someone else. I'm very much an extrovert, so I'm perfectly comfortable sharing dinner with different people every night, although I usually make friends during the first couple of days and we gel as a dining group. And I can eat when I want, instead of having to dine when my friends want to eat. I also enjoy more active excursions than my friends, so on my solo cruises I can take hikes or long walks.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You get to do you!!! Very glad to have inspired the solo trips and you are enjoying yourself!

[@MerriHaub-er6cr]

My husband is very much “this is the schedule and we have to stick to it”. When I travel by myself I allow myself to change up the routine last minute. I can be in route to an activity and pass by something that looks like it would be more fun… so I stop in there instead of the original plan. Another reason why I like the all inclusive entertainment…. I’m not bound by a reservation or plan.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That is really great that you get that balance!

[@neuronomadsgroupcruising]

Hey...welcome back Brandon!!!

[@diannebrideson2368]

Did my first solo cruise and loved it. Probably loved it more than when I cruise with family or friends. Its nice to do what you want when you want.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I completely hear you on that. I sometimes even feel bad for enjoying solo cruising so much and not wanting to bring others with me. Not sure what emotion that is but its a thing.

[@henrycrews4998]

I find when you hang out at your favorite bar, all the people that hangout in the same bar become a group of friends and say Hi when you bump into each other in other areas of the ship. I still learn from you (the master of solo cruisers) I will sit in the front row of shows that I want to support.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Always be learning! That is a good point on the bars. People tend to want to find their "Cheers" where the bartenders and patrons alike know them, even on the ship!

[@bethgintx]

I started cruising by myself last year as I was chasing Diamond. I quickly realized how much I love being able to just do ‘me’ when I am on a solo cruise. My husband likes to stay up late and gamble and I like to call it a night around 10:00-10:30. I am almost D+, so after that I will start inviting people with me (if I want) as I have no desire to reach Pinnacle. Loved the bloopers.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you Beth!!! That's the great thing about cruising solo, it is all about you!

[@kitkatz9984]

Love the bloopers....hee hee😊❤

[@tiysmith9657]

I had soooo much fun meeting people on my last solo cruise. I will miss that when I go with friends on my next cruise.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You can always try to keep the group more open or bring folks into the conversation. It is admittingly harder but can still happen! Or just start ditching the group! ;-)

[@paulntpa1122]

OMG...you are my mirror image, for 9 of your ten. Seeing I am loving the SOLO cruising, I find myself heading to my cabin earlier than you, like about 9PM after walking the ship for a while. Most shows don't interest me, however, if the Atrium has anything going on, I'll sit and listen until I start yarning. Up early, grab some buffet, hit the pool with some coffee and R&R before I get hit with the other guests. As for me, I hate to tender, like in Belize two weeks ago when there were three ships, and two were MEGA. So, probably 12-15K pax back and forth. NOPE, I am at the pool relaxing. Thanks for the video, sail safe and have a GREAT day !!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

This made me smile Paul! Thank you and I am working on going to the room earlier. It is starting to happen but trying to do coffee a bit later to keep me out till at least 10pm. The struggle is real!

[@TonyMcDem]

Saving this in a Solo playlist so I can easily copy and paste for friends and folks in cruising chat groups on Facebook. Thanks for always delivering thoughtful, organized, and professional videos!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

My pleasure and glad to assist! This was actually a video idea from a viewer, so if you think of anything solo related, let me know! This is truly my fun content and wish I could do a full channel just on solo cruising.

[@DPinFL]

Another great (as always) thought-provoking post, Brandon. The vast majority of my many cruises are solo, but I definitely enjoy when shared with others, although very few want to go with that frequency. I was there with ya on most points, but also differ on some. #2 about "talking less" was SO true although I'm a very social person. It's a perfect escape at times. #6 Staying on the ship more . . . Absolutely!! #9 Boarding time is the opposite for me, but I do believe we arrive at our home port quite differently since you live SO close. I drive short distances, and the best parking spaces are those just vacated by the debarking passengers heading home. #10 I've foolishly convinced myself the cabin stewards lightly judge me on any mess I might leave so I'm way more tidy onboard than at home (remember, I used the word Foolish). Now, on very rare occasion I'll do front row in the theatre, but generally say, "Oh, Hell NO!!" and I'm certain the reason has happened to you before. A performer you've befriended on earlier cruises, or a cruise director, will select you to be a focus of a show (or, worse, being brought onstage) and then passengers recognize you as being "that guy" for days. Even for someone who has been in entertainment since childhood, and still part of adult career . . . Just Kill Me Now!! Thanks, again, for this superb video!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha my pleasure and literally laughed out loud at the stateroom attendant judging you! You know, I have not been pulled onto stage in the theater but have gotten roped into the Sexiest Man Competition. 100% out of my element!

[@FraserAtSea]

This is a really good list! I remember being so confused when I was cruising with my friend at how few people we met. I find cruising solo, I can meet SO MANY PEOPLE - to the point where I'm exhausted by the end of the cruise, haha!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha not to mention you are a very social person, with a huge smile. I am sure it attracts everyone on the ship!

[@dinodesantis2056]

I have done single cruises and groups and with someone. I enjoy it all. I’ve been told by people that they feel sorry for me being alone. I always laugh and enjoy myself. No worries about it. I do only sponsored excursions when I’m alone as a precaution but otherwise I meet new people enjoy hearing about other peoples lives and experiences.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I would love for someone to tell me how they feel sorry for me :-) That would be a conversation that would need to be recorded and put on TikTok. I think we have AMAZING lives. Not the choice that others might make but one that works fantastically well for us :-)

[@RoadWarriorRick]

Great video! Looking forward to my first solo cruise in a few weeks!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You will do fine Rick!! I've see you in action now and know you are going to love it!

[@RoadWarriorRick]

Thanks Brandon!

[@GrantMcLeod-u2r]

An excellent video, Brandon. I myself have always been highly introverted. Wish I weren't but in traveling over the years, being single has allowed me the freedom to do what I want, when I want. Most people are social, and want to be with others in a group. That offers more security. But it also ties one up with the 'group' so you do what the group wants. Also, I enjoy the serenity of being myself, with myself. I found that when dining, and I want to enjoy the meal, many are talking and asking what do you do, do you have children and such. Then people want to organize the group events, and you are expected to show up at all of these things. Traveled the world on my own. And survived !! Wish I had a partner and one to travel with but sometimes that does not come to pass. En fin, c'est pas de quoi. A lady asked why you board last. Boarding last allows an easy entry onto the ship. The herd has filled the ship, and boarded....so you can board late and navigate around the huge crowds. I learned to go to a Specialty dinner the first night, to avoid the mobs at the buffet. Once again, really enjoy your videos and appreciate all the work you do that that entails. Grant in Phoenix

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Grant and thank you for the note! Always glad to hear other's experience with solo cruising as we all get to do it however we want :-)

[@susanc6367]

I can relate. I cruise with a group, but we definitely do our own thing. No pressure to do everything together

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That is the best of both worlds and my favorite! You at least get the option to be with others if you want.

[@mismatmom]

Just finished third solo cruise. Loved them all. As a solo female i make a point to meet ny cabin steward and let him know i am solo. Extra level of safety for me. Otherwise, what i want when i want. Great relaxing experience. You would be surprised how popular solo cruising is. You are not alone, lol.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

that is a good take-away to let your stateroom attendant know that! I am really starting to learn how popular it is! Luckily, it is one of my favorite things to talk about on the channel and am always open to content ideas for us solo folks!

[@rhondalyn100]

Thank you for this. I just finished my very first cruise (VV Valiant Lady) with a friend but my immediate future cruises may be solo for me. This helps me know more about what my preferences will be as a solo cruiser and to know that whatever they are I will be okay with them. That there is no "right" or "wrong" when it comes to solo cruising. 🙂

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

100% on no right or wrong! And what is right at 8:05pm could be wrong by 8:10pm! You get to change every second and decide something different. One of the most liberating things you can do.

[@LeanneWilcox]

I can relate to almost all your points

[@danielgross9792]

Great video, Brandon. Thanks for the good info!

[@katcalico9142]

Extroverted introvert here. If I am truly solo, I am shelling out for a balcony. Really wish they had more bar/lounge style dining options. My ultimate luxury is having dinner on my balcony with my book, preferably after the gym and a late afternoon massage That is my self-care. My dream would to be able to get “take out” from specialty restaurants or the MDR (happy to pay the normal specialty dining cost me even pay a $10 surcharge for MDR take out - maybe you can, but I have never been bold enough to ask. 😂😂😂🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

[@stormraven4183]

There is something amazing about the way the fresh ocean breeze sharpens the appetite and taste buds ❤

[@diannebrideson2368]

I ask to sit alone and read my Kindle at dinner. I enjoy solo cruising and really don't meet people but that's fine.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

With Royal Caribbean at least, if you stay in a grand suite or higher, they will deliver MDR food to your room! This is also a favorite of mine and always make a point to do it at least one night! Have not seen specialty dinning doing a lot of take away orders but wouldn't hurt to ask! I am sure they would be glad to charge you! Only time I did this was when I was in COVID quarantine on Freedom of the Seas and had OBC I wanted to use. They were very kind and sent me chops to eat - I do not recommend this path.

[@blublulady]

I will probably never cruise alone, but I sure do enjoy your videos! (still not getting off in Nassau though lol)

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

hahaha totally understand!

[@Santiago-in1xf]

Just did a solo cruise on Norwegian with the solo lounge. It's perfect for this ambivert with a social battery. There were solos that hung out everyday and some I didn't see after the first day. I don't typically do the main dining room as a solo. They take too long.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I need to get on NCL to try out their solo lounge. I keep looking at their weekend sailings but it is older ships without solo cabins :-(

[@tomm.3994]

Sounds perfect!!!

[@martinejoseph5266]

The last time I cruised solo was 2021 which was very leisure. I had no schedule and was going with how I was feeling at that moment. Now all my cruises have been group cruises and I go with the schedule. I know I don't have too but I have huge case of FOMO 😂😂😂😂

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha the great thing is you do go with the schedule but you realize you don't have to! At any point, you could tell everyone your going for a nap! haha Now we just have to get you on one of the Weekend Cruiser's groups!

[@joangroothuis4031]

love cruising solo. hate the solo supplement

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

100% Did just tell everyone on the live stream last night we have our first solo group cruise scheduled! Quantum of the Seas Nov 14, 2025 out of Los Angeles! We have grabbed many solo interiors and solo balconies for us solo folks to keep the cost down! Group Cruise Email Sign-Up! www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruise-sign-up Group Cruise Options & How to Register: www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruises

[@cicsman]

Been on Solo Cruise a few times, but I just book my first Solo Cabin on Adventure of the Seas. Going to be interesting to see how well I like or dislike it,

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Go with an open mind and you will love it! Solo cabins are a good reason not to be in the room that much as they are a bit smaller. Have any good ports?

[@willcooper6980]

I have done cruises alone and with a female friend. point 1: When I go solo, I will not meet anyone unless the other person is lonely and/or desperate. I won't get lonely or desperate. I truly believe that solo women will be approached anywhere, whereas solo men will only get talked to at a bar or high adrenaline excursion. I avoid the bars if solo. When I'm with my female friend, we will get approached by couples because they assume that we're a couple. points 2,5,7: When I'm alone, a sea day = you don't see me unless I'm eating during the day. I'll do various activities on the schedule if I'm with my female friend point 6: My choice of excursions changes based on whether I'm alone or with a friend. I keep it simple if solo. point 9: What changes is where I park. I park at the port when with my friend for her peace of mind. Solo, I'll do the remote lot because of cost. Thanks for putting this list together.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thanks for sharing Will and some great points there on other ways to solo cruise! love it.

[@pw-sz6ds]

How come you board so late? I’m assuming you have no lines to wait in👍🏼. I would like to board late. Not as late as you maybe 2:30-3:00pm. But the hotel check out is 11am. We are normally close to the port so we would still get there by 12pm. So instead of stalling for time we just head to the port. 🤷‍♀️

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That totally makes sense! I board late in order to work a full day and keep my job 🤣 no vacation days used here!

[@pw-sz6ds]

@@TheWeekendCruiser oh I see! Very smart.

[@ksessa1010]

So interesting, are you ever disappointed in yourself if you find toward the end of the afternoon you have been bunkered in your room all day? Can you walk away from the laptop while in your room weekend cruising?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I have gotten better at this! Best decision I ever made was to outsource video editing. Def found myself in the cabin more than I wanted and not enjoying the sailing. These days, I have a good routine that feels much more balanced. I have always said if this ever feels like work or I stop enjoying cruising, i am done.

[@DelosFive]

Not gonna lie - I wanna meet Brandon 🤩

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You should!!! We have to get you on one of the group cruises!

[@marleylately381]

I am curious why you embark late when you are by yourself?

[@suave-rider]

to avoid the crush of people trying to get on as soon as possible, and the crowds at the buffet. He also can go straight to his room without dragging bags around for hours

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

The main reason is because I have a full time job and want to get a full day in before heading to the ship. It's also nice that the terminal is deserted and check in is very quick.

[@TravelsbyTeena]

Brandon, I've heard you mention in a past video that you do not drink alcohol, but I'm curious to know if you ever sit at the bar to just mingle with people, and still make it to bed by 10:30 pm.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Good question but not as much as I used to... I have found myself being more comfortable being by myself and don't always seek out others. I will go to someone of the meetups on board to see if those foster anything but that's about it these days.

[@judyung8146]

How do you feel about some single supplements going to 225-250%

[@Reed-2big]

I’m thinking they aren’t looking for passengers! While I’m not cruising solo I have travelled solo so I remember some of the issues. As the prices seem to be going down because there are so many ships in the Caribbean because the Red Sea is closed! Hang in there there are cruise lines that are actually less than 200%!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Look, I don't like it but these are businesses with shareholders. Their only objective is to drive as much revenue as possible and solo cruisers don't do this. Luckily, there are several lines out there to choose from and many ways to vacation. Solo cruisers have choices and I have certainly enjoyed cruising lines that don't charge strong single supplements. It also means I am more likely to reserve the room for 2 people and have one be a no show to get the lower price. 🥳

[@Reed-2big]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Seems like the no show only saves you the percentage above the 2 occupants. I’d be tempted to order for 2 people every night, if charged above double, and let it sit on the table while I enjoy my meal and maybe some of the other one. Can you inquire, for the regular double cost if you can have a second entree without the $5 upcharge, or whatever it is now? Seems you should be able to get 3 entrees with the 225%-250% charges!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@Reed-2big That is right, having the no-show 2nd person only gets you to 200% but prevents the 200%+ situations. The wait staff have no records of how much you paid other than you are a solo cruiser. You would still be subject to the blank rule. Though, I have found some that appreciate a tip more than following this rule :-)

[@richardg8651]

I'm sorry the solo supplement's are so high these days.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Totally get it Richard! They are going crazy on some lines with 250%! Good news, I just announced a new group cruise on Quantum of the Seas on Nov 14, 2025 out of Los Angles because we were able to grab many solo cabins to save you and me some money! More details coming soon but we literally just got the space if you are interested. Group Cruise Email Sign-Up! www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruise-sign-up Group Cruise Options & How to Register: www.theweekendcruiser.com/group-cruises

[@donbockin6725]

Of course Brandon you’re bored. You go on the same shift to the same locations. So you have the same shows every week. You have the same parts every week. You live close to the Cruise Lines in Miami so you don’t have to worry about getting there on time.understand all that. But how about the folks that wanna see the world. From Corfu Greece. Thanks.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Don, it's a little confusing when I say I get bored. To me, that is a good thing because it forces me to sit down and relax. On land, I am always moving, doing something, and just busy. It is good for me to be bored a bit. The main reasons I am a weekend cruiser, is because I don't want to use vacation time to do 7-night sailings in the Caribbean these days and prefer to fly to a new country and see the world :-) Have done a solid number of countries on longer sailings but am more land focused these days. So far, I am up to 64 countries :-) PS: love Corfu! Beautiful port city.