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There are three truths about cruising solo: it’s always expensive; it’s often awkward; and it’s occasionally fun. You may wistfully embark upon an Eat Pray Love journey of self-discovery, but that’s not how it will go.
Your dream will probably shatter into self-conscious pieces as soon as you check in, surrounded by couples and families who will soon be whooping it up while you pretend to look for your imaginary friend.
The simple fact is if you’re not outgoing on land, you won’t magically transform Freaky Friday-style into a social butterfly of the seas. This reality slapped me in the face on a recent overseas trip when I spent the entire week alone. “Oh, she couldn’t find a friend on a cruise ship!” should be a new Aussie saying.
The problem was my special blend of shyness and snobbery. I tried one singles event — well, to be honest, I casually checked out the meeting spot, didn’t like the look of anyone, kept walking. They shouldn’t have held it somewhere so exposed and easy to walk past. This is the problem with on-board activities held in inappropriate places. A bit like P&O holding its Friends of Bill W (Alcoholics Anonymous) meeting in a bar (true story; I saw it advertised on Pacific Explorer last month).
Then there’s the odd mix of participants. Some go to pick up, others are seeking platonic company, and they could be 17 to 87 years old. It should be more like the kids clubs, divided into age groups or intentions.
Your chances of solo success are better on a local cruise. For a start, Australians drink a lot, which makes them (and you) chattier. Perch on a poolside bar stool and it’s almost guaranteed that someone will talk to you within a minute. While I can’t speak for the Bill W meeting (yet), Pacific Explorer does have some fun options such as a singles tournament on its lawn bowls green.
Last week, sailing with Captain Cook Cruises in Fiji, I also had a great time snorkelling and dining with the 80 passengers on Reef Endeavour. And I’ve never struggled on a river cruise line, especially when the single supplement is waived, attracting more solos.
Expedition cruising is a great option, where you’ll find it easier to mingle with people who share your passion for adventure, wildlife or nature. Solo explorers are everywhere, from the Kimberley to Antarctica.
Smaller ships, with fewer than about 300 passengers, are definitely recommended, although tend to be more expensive. Some big ships sell a handful of solo cabins — such as Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway, Getaway, Escape, Epic and Pride of America — but these sell out quickly. And again, Australian ships have little on offer.
For mature travellers, your best bets are traditional cruise lines that cater for like-minded ladies and gents. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria have some single cabins, as well as British-based P & O ships, Fred Olsen Cruises, Costa, Holland America Line, and Cruise & Maritime Voyages.
Silversea, Crystal Cruises, Cunard and Holland America Line also employ “gentleman hosts” to dance with female passengers, dine with them on board or even join together for shore excursions.
My other tip is to plan ahead. Ask your travel agent for advice, search for solo cruise groups on Facebook and, after you book, sign up for the “roll call” on the Cruise Critic website to join our Meet & Mingle parties, held on most ships.
Sоurсе: theaustralian.com.au
