Having explored over 140 countries solo, I’ve never felt lonely on my adventures. Yet I frequently encounter friends and acquaintances who express deep anxiety about traveling alone. For those who dream of travel but hesitate to go solo, I recently tried something different: an 18-day Norwegian Cruise Line voyage through the South Pacific, specifically to test if this could be the perfect “training wheels” for aspiring solo travelers.
My own challenge wasn’t loneliness – it was seasickness. As someone who gets queasy on a docked boat, I approached this experiment armed with research. After trying various remedies like wristbands, Dramamine, and Chinese ear seeds, I found success with a scopolamine patch. While solutions vary by individual, knowing there are effective options can help overcome this common cruise concern.
The Norwegian Sun proved to be an ideal testing ground for nervous first-time solo travelers. For those worried about dining alone or making connections, the ship offers a daily 5:30 p.m. singles meetup, regularly attracting more than 25 people. These gatherings naturally flow into group dinners, where I met fascinating individuals from around the world – including some who cruise-hop as a lifestyle. I have now 6 new friends from New Zealand, Canada and the South Seas.
The food quality surprised even this world traveler. Forget cafeteria fare; the complimentary restaurants serve everything from eggs Benedict to steak and lobster. Specialty venues offer exceptional French and Japanese cuisine that would satisfy discerning urban diners. The presentation and variety exceeded my expectations, rivaling respected restaurant chains.
For those concerned about boredom – don’t be. I packed computer work and audio books that never saw the light of day. Instead, I found myself playing pickleball, joining Mahjong games, and exploring the uncrowded gym. The ship’s 2,000 passengers dispersed so well that spaces never felt cramped, while organized activities and exercise classes provided constant opportunities for engagement.
Our route – Papeete, Bora Bora, the Cook Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, American Samoa, and Fiji – offered a perfect blend of destinations. My balcony cabin (though I later learned they offer specific solo cabins) became a private retreat for morning coffee and ocean views. For first-time solo travelers, this balance of private space and social opportunities proves invaluable.
What makes cruising particularly suitable for hesitant solo travelers is its structured nature. You unpack once, meals are planned, activities are organized, and shore excursions are arranged. The staff’s thoughtful attention creates an environment where you can be as social or as independent as you choose. The cabin is a quiet escape for a relaxing experience enjoying the ocean views or participating in the non stop entertainment offered by the boat.
For my friends who’ve delayed their travel dreams due to anxiety about going alone, consider starting with a cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line, in particular, seems to understand the solo traveler’s needs. The organized social activities, diverse entertainment options, and attentive staff create an environment where anyone can find their comfort zone.
As someone who’s circled the globe alone, I can attest that solo travel opens doors to extraordinary experiences and connections. The one thing I learned from traveling alone to traveling on the cruise ship is that I can relax. Traveling independently, you have to be more on your guard, you have to organize all your visas and paperwork, you have to deal with the customs agents in every country you enter and you have to drag your luggage around. I now realize that I will in the future add a cruise into everyone of my trips. It is a relaxing way to either start or end a journey. A cruise offers a gentle introduction to independent adventure, providing both the security of organized travel and the freedom to explore at your own pace.