The Ultimate Solo Travel Hack You Haven’t Tried Yet: Cruising
Thinking about taking a solo trip but feeling nervous about safety, logistics, or dining alone? You’re not alone – and you don’t have to do it alone. One of the best-kept secrets in the solo travel world is cruising. This week on The Wandercents, I’m thrilled to welcome guest writer, Megan, a seasoned solo traveler who’s here to share a unique take on one of the most underrated travel hacks: solo cruising. In this post, she’ll be sharing why cruises are the ultimate travel hack for solo travelers looking for safety, spontaneity, and social connection – without the overwhelm.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.
If you’ve ever thought about traveling solo but worried about logistics, safety, or those dreaded “table for one” moments then let me introduce you to my favorite solo travel secret: cruising.
While group tours and backpacking adventures often get the spotlight in solo travel circles, cruising offers the best of all worlds. You get independence and built-in community. Structure and spontaneity. And best of all? You don’t have to plan every single detail to have the trip of a lifetime.
After solo cruises to Alaska and Norway (including my most recent voyage with Cunard), I’m convinced: cruising is one of the smartest, safest, and most enjoyable ways to travel solo, especially if you’re looking to blend exploration, relaxation, and connection.
1. You’re Never Really Alone on a Cruise (Unless You Wanna Be)
One of the best parts of cruising solo? You get to choose when and how to be social.
Want to meet new people? Join a trivia team, attend a wine tasting, or show up to the solo travelers’ meetup (yes, those exist on many lines and they’re better than you think). Prefer quiet time? Lounge with a book on the top deck, dine solo at a cozy table by the window, or unwind at the spa.
Cruises strike that perfect balance: there’s always someone to chat with, but no pressure to mingle if you’d rather just watch the sunset in peace. Cruising gives you all the freedom of solo travel, without the loneliness that sometimes comes with it.
2. Cruise Ships Offer Built-in Safety for Solo Travelers
For solo travelers, safety is a priority and cruise ships provide a uniquely secure environment. You’re in a floating hotel with 24/7 staff, onboard security, and the ability to explore multiple destinations without dragging luggage between cities or navigating late-night train stations.
Ports are easy to access, and ship-sponsored excursions give you a hassle-free (and often group-based) way to explore with confidence. That said, I’ve also done plenty of my own DIY exploring, from wandering the ports of Alaska to museum hopping in Oslo and always felt safe and supported by the cruise structure.
3. Cruises Simplify Solo Travel Budgets
Cruising simplifies budgeting, which can be a game-changer when you’re traveling alone. Accommodations, food, transportation between cities, and entertainment are all included. That means no surprises for your budget and often savings. If you’re deciding what to save vs. splurge on during your trip, a cruise makes a lot of those choices for you – in a good way.
Even better? Some cruise lines now cater specifically to solo travelers, offering:
- Studio cabins designed (and priced) for one
- Solo-only meetups and activities
- No single supplement deals if you book at the right time
Keep an eye on Cunard, Norwegian, Holland America, and even some river cruise lines – they’ve been making great strides in welcoming solo travelers.
Read more on how to travel smarter with this save vs. splurge guide.
4. Solo Cruising = Unexpected Friendships
Here’s something I didn’t expect when I took my first solo cruise: how many amazing people I’d meet.
From the 60-year-old Canadian retiree who became my shore buddy after a fun night playing penny-slots, to the woman celebrating her birthday with a bucket list trip – cruise ships are full of people with stories. Many are solo, many are open-hearted, and most are happy to connect – even if only over a shared laugh when you think you won it big at penny-slots or the breakfast buffet.
Solo travel doesn’t have to mean lonely travel. On a cruise, it rarely does.
And with that said, as a 30-something, sure, I’m usually the youngest solo traveler on a cruise. But often those retired solo travelers are more full of life and looking for the chance to connect than anyone. Don’t let the possibility of an age gap discourage you from trying it out!
Final Thoughts: Should You Try a Solo Cruise?
If you’re curious about solo travel but overwhelmed by planning or safety concerns – or you’re just craving a meaningful reset without the stress – cruising might be your perfect fit.
It’s structured, secure, surprisingly social, and great value (especially if you keep an eye out for solo deals).
Take the leap. Book the cabin. You might just find that traveling solo doesn’t mean going alone, it means going exactly where you want, exactly how you want.
About the Author
Megan is a solo travel enthusiast and recent cruise convert who’s explored the fjords of Norway, the glaciers of Alaska, and everything in between. When she’s not traveling, she’s a full time event planner and a runner. You can find her sharing more of her adventures on Instagram at @meggersm29
Have you ever tried a solo cruise? Let me know in the comments — or message me on Instagram @thewandercents with your top solo travel questions!
