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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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 !

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!!!

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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)

[@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.

[@avaleesdad]

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

[@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!

[@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).

[@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.

[@auntagatha2509]

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

[@jules2565]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@ryanguzek361]

Need more solo cabins with balconies

[@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!!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@tuvia4082]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@annamelanie5151]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@petermacdonald3061]

Hi Gary, Felt the need to write and tell you I recently travelled with Oceania, travelling with my full time assistant/companion. It was an excellent trip from Darwin to Singapore on the 'Regatta". First class in everything, previous to this we travelled with Norwegian, (Star, Spirit, Dawn , Jewel). Thank you for your video on sailing with Oceania. I am also a non alcohol drinker and we are both 'halal' in diet. No issues there at all, in fact I was treated with great respect.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@JosephSchmidtfan]

Thanks so much for this. I'm really interested in cruising but this lack of support for solo travellers has been a real turn off. I feel encouraged knowing where to turn for the best and most inviting options.

[@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?

[@alextirrellRI]

Thank you for this. I take most of my trips solo and I've been thinking about a cruise. It's incredibly helpful.

[@danielle6547]

I love Norwegian for the studio cabins! As a 25 year old woman, I would not feel safe with a roommate who I don’t know. I like having alone time anyway so it’s nice to have my own space

[@tipsfortravellers]

They are such a great idea for exactly that, I agree!

[@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.

[@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.

[@harksta229]

Incredibly helpful. All 16 minutes full of excellent tips. Thank you Gary!

[@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.

[@davidcarter1492]

I recently stayed in a studio balcony cabin on an RCL cruise. It was a great time!

[@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.

[@wendibridge3577]

Hi Gary, really appreciate all the cruising advice you give. My comment is not really about solo cruises but after my recent Princess cruise in Australia I needed to vent my frustration. Its possible other cruisers have had the same experience as we did. I am an Australian and this cruise was a short 7 day cruise from my home city and back. Bad weather prevented half the stops, not something that can be avoided. This meant that a refund of our all day excursion was put back into our account. As we ended the cruise on Dec 21st we didn't check with Princess until the 28th. Long story short, we have to inquire as to whether Princess will be refunding this amount. We could not find anywhere in the paperwork that implied it was at their discretion as to whether they returned our money. After a lengthy phone call with someone who's English was not the best, we now await their decision. This was just one more incident on this short cruise that has made us decide "No more Princess cruises". Thanks again.

[@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.

[@enola60]

Thank You for Sharing!! Looking forward to my 1st Cruise nxt May..but, a bit Nervous since my 1st time.ive been watching your Videos so I can get the best out of my Cruise but, im like any other human ..getting excited.

[@rbrachmann]

I did SilverSea Silver Moon for Greek Islands and will again for western Mediterranean. Capacity is around 600 guests. Their supplement is 25%. That varies widely by ship and itinerary. I had a great time. I went shoulder season and it has no inside/solo cabins.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Agree! They often have sailings with these levels for solo! That’s how I’ve managed to get some expedition on them done

[@jiggytvnewman2498]

Always been a dream to go on a cruise but would be alone and that always put doubt in my mind but am by nature a introvert and more a solo person than groups.this gives me food for thought

[@barbarahallowell2613]

I'm a semi-new solo cruiser. I took my first cruise ever in Dec 23, solo transatlantic on NCL gem. Your videos gave me the courage to book it.❤😊❤ I'm doing another round on the NCL escape, a much bigger ship. I'm nervous. I loved my Gem experience. New w I've got a b2b transatlantic on a very big ship. First 16 days, balcony, 2b 11 days in a studio cabin, Basically,ohhhhhelllwhatdidido? Yeah, this transatlantic is booked to capacity, on like the BUG BOAT. Scarry, damn.😊 Ppps - smokers get an instant and absolute community ❤

[@2CraftySeniors]

Thanks for all of the great information. As we "baby boomers" get older there will be more and more singles... because spouses will pass away. Hubby and I can't travel right now because I'm not well enough... but I think when we can, the smartest move for us will be to find a cruise-line with good solo policies and make it "our" line. That way we'll be building our "level" with the cruise-line and, when the time comes, whoever is still travelling will be able to easily shift to solo.

[@1292liam]

I chatted with a nice girl (a primary school teacher from Scotland) in the laundry room on QM2. I hardly saw her again after that, which I was surprised by, as it's not huge ship.

[@BEN-xq4ny]

I loved your tip on dining with the crew. When I was younger, I always hung out with the crew, sometimes even in the crew bar🤪 and they were so fun. I'll try that on my next cruise. Thank you

[@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.

[@VoiceoverMomentum]

A friend and I (two single ladies) went to Alaska on a cruise. We showed up at the singles mixer… and there was no one there and the workers didn’t even know anything about a singles get-together!

[@kimtodd9712]

MSC has much better solo rates. I will definitely cruise with them again.

[@WestCoastCultured]

I hate Royal Caribbean for solo. I don’t want to be bothered by children and families. Thats not relaxing.

[@barbarap5278]

Thank you so much for this info, it was very informative for us solo cruisers... lot's of great tips...

[@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

[@richardweibel5597]

Excellent video Gary with absolutely accurate information. I always travel solo on Princess and what I have found that works are cruise critic roll calls pre departure, cruise critics meet up on board. In addition always share a table for breakfast, lunch dinner and afternoon tea (I'm a Princess Cruiser). By avoiding the buffet you have a great opportunity to meet more people and improve the overall experience as a solo traveller.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for sharing those tips on Princess. Good to know!!

[@SquidandCatAdventures]

I would avoid NCL Getaway too. I had lunch in the main dining room after embarking. Great in that it was so quiet. But as soon as I was on the ship, the server tried to make me feel badly about travelling alone. She was like asking over and over "why are you alone?" when it was clear I wasn't interested in really answering. I might have said that I like it and then was quiet after but she wanted to make it seem so weird to travel alone. First of all, if someone doesn't answer a personal question that is none of your business, then leave it alone. Totally unprofessional (I believe that she might have thought that I was Filipina also as people say that I look like that but still). Second, I can think of a dozen different ways someone might be travelling alone and actually a lot do not need to be asked about first thing by a stranger. Third, how long has she been working there that she's never even encountered anyone who's travelled alone? She looked seasoned. And I asked her if she's never seen it ever? She still wanted to harp so she acted like she's never and that it was so unusual. Unbelievable. I had been totally polite and could not understand why someone would want to make someone feel bad about it on purpose. It's not up to me to justify to you the staff how I travel - you are there to help me have a good time! And she made that my first experience on the ship. I actually love travelling alone and think it's an amazing thing. But I was immediately put off from talking with her. There were a number of weird staff on this ship but it was super inconsistent - so super rude or some very nice. Like there's no real guidance in high customer service from management so it is just up to each person to be whatever they feel like. Sep 2019.

[@rkenzie5235]

I love your channel! Great travel tips in general but I especially enjoy the solo travel tips!

[@cathleenharris6646]

thank you so much for this video!! i love traveling but unfortunately don’t always have a travel partner-i didn’t know about these options-appreciate all of your thoughtful commentary! 👍🏼

[@marklittle6408]

Some videos get a one some deserve more, like this one Like PLUS. So much great zones t for solo cruises in here Gary. Thank you.

[@Sydney2217]

My Princes cruise around NZ,first cruise, was terrible & i have not been on another cruise . Thanks for your amazing vlogs , wish i had seen them earlier.

[@lindasirmeyer3228]

Try NCL-they cater to singles and you will love it! Try again! Don’t give up

[@Sydney2217]

@@lindasirmeyer3228 Thanks.

[@EricaNernie]

If there's a waterslide or kid's club, I don't want to be on it. Giveme small, adventure, expedition-type experiences.

[@johnreid9615]

Always very informative. Thank you.

[@whyyoulidl]

Thanks - great tips. Just booked my 2nd solo trip with VV, Eastern Caribbean, 8 nighter out of Miami in March. A little apprehensive but hey, life's too short not to 😃

[@tremorist]

When I consult cruise booking sites, I always feel that the lines make it difficult(if not impossible) to see prises for solo cabins. MSC, RC, Costa, AIDA, they all want you to "BOOK NOW!", yet they are making the process of booking a cabin for a single person difficult and very intransparent. It gives me the feeling of being ripped off and kept me from hitting that "BOOK NOW!"-Button several times already. Thank you very much for the interesting video. Greets from Germany 🙂

[@SteveKxyz]

I cruised solo for the first time this year. P&O Arcadia were running "no single supplement" cruises for a short period after she came back into service. Fine, except being "Billy no mates" after dinner.

[@bryantsteury8910]

Another excellent video! Merry Christmas to you and Mark, Gary!

[@josephgaviota]

As always, I learn a lot from your vids.

[@frankbruun2572]

Always a pleasure to watch your videos. They are very informative, and I learn something interesting every time. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a happy New Cruising Year 🎄☃️❄️

[@owensmith7530]

I've cruised a fair bit with my mum and her sister. So I'm not solo in that there are three of us, but I am solo in that I have to pay the single supplement or find a single cabin. I'm not sure I'd want to go entirely solo. I'll find out in a few years, mum and her sister are getting a bit old for it (their words not mine).

[@rhondamills2621]

I think solo cruising is similar to cell phone plans.....if you only need 1 line you are penalized monetarily. But I find this video extremely helpful, Thank you! 😊

[@suebee4380]

excellent info, cruising solo can be a fantastic adventure or a drag and depressing, you really nailed it. Thanks!!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@46foryounger]

You hit it out of the park with this video! BAM!

[@floraandfaunab8855]

Thank you for the info, planning to do my first cruise next year, this give me confidence that I can do it myself.

[@singbike5832]

I did one solo cruise with Norwegian (as they had single cabins). The cabins are a gimmick IMO - not well-priced and postage stamp sized. Like you experienced, it was a huge ship, and it was very lonely and alienating. I think a smaller ship could be better, but I found it a lonely experience and don't really have a desire to do a solo cruise again. But you do have some good ideas for making the experience less lonely for those who are doing a solo cruise.

[@WestCoastCultured]

You are not comfortable with yourself

[@747carrie]

@@WestCoastCultured And neither are you, to be so rude.

[@carolineleary243]

Dear Gary, I'm a solo traveller, aged 52 and I have recently begun to tell people who do the 'are you travelling / eating etc by yourself?' - I've recently been released from prison after serving a sentance for murdering my husband, THIS is my first post prison holiday and I've been looking forward to it for 15+ years. One French waiter said 'I don't know how to reply to that' and I told him the best reply is 'Congratulations!'

[@jennywinter3025]

Creepy