A short cruise is one of the best ways to travel on your own. It’s a superb opportunity to relax and unwind, with a dash of adventure thrown in, without having to commit to a complex itinerary or take on too much organisation by yourself.
Solo travel always requires a little more planning than travelling as a group (or rather there is far less opportunity to share responsibilities), and a cruise is no different. However, a short cruise adventure does take care of an awful lot of the admin that comes with solo travel, meaning that the main things you need to consider are choosing between the cruise lines leaving from Galveston or Miami, and where and what you’ll be doing while at sea!
So if you are looking to pack your bags for a solo trip filled with exciting cultural experiences, exhilarating outdoor excursions, or serene moments watching the sunset over the horizon, here’s a guide to crafting the perfect short cruise itinerary.
Choose the Right Cruise Duration
Although every cruise itinerary is personal and the right duration for you will depend entirely on your preferences and desires, for solo travellers a cruise of between 3 and 7 days is usually the sweet spot. This gives you the chance to visit several different ports without feeling rushed, while also not taking too much time out of your day-to-day life or leaving you feeling bored or lonely. Shorter cruises are perfect for lone travellers as they offer a quick, easy-to-organise getaway with a taste of the joys of cruising, without the commitment that comes with a longer voyage.
Research Cruise Lines and Ships
Certain cruise lines are better set up to cater to solo travellers than others, and it is worth doing a little digging to discover which operators and which ships will suit your personal style. You might want something luxurious and focused on relaxation and pampering, or a ship that caters to more adventurous, adrenaline-fuelled travellers. It is also worth looking at the cabins, activities, and dining options, to ensure that your chosen cruise line has plenty of solo traveler-friendly options.
Plan Port Activities Wisely
The best part of a cruise for many travellers is the ports you visit and the activities and experiences you encounter while exploring these exotic destinations. As a result, it is well worth taking some time to look into everywhere the ship will stop on your itinerary and choosing a range of excursions and tours to maximise your time ashore. Group activities are great for solo travelers as they put you in touch with other like-minded people and give you the chance to socialise and share experiences as you explore.
Embrace Solo Time Onboard
Exploring ports with fellow travellers is great, but one of the joys of a cruise for a solo traveler is the chance to completely check out of what other people want and enjoy the peace and serenity of your own company. As a solo traveler you have the freedom to craft your schedule to suit your needs only, so take full advantage. Embrace solo time onboard with activities and amenities like spas, gyms, classes, or just lazing by the pool or watching the sunset. A cruise gives you the freedom to spend time with yourself as much as with other people, depending on how you are feeling and how you prefer to travel.
For solo travellers, a cruise offers a wonderful balance of excitement, entertainment, and freedom. A short cruise itinerary is a great way to have a wonderful adventure without too much hassle or organization and will be an experience that will stay with you for many years.