I would like to preface this post with… I am not affiliated with Norwegian Cruise Line in any way. I am loyal customer and I truly and honestly appreciate them as a company.
Technically Norwegian Cruise Line was my first “real” solo vacation. In 2013, I decided to go to Bermuda from New York, on a 7-day cruise on the new Breakaway ship. This was my first cruise and my first time going to Bermuda… and other than Florida, my first solo trip.
I was 28 years old and felt like I needed to go somewhere on my own. After I experienced going to Florida by myself, it gave me the courage to try going somewhere and something I was not familiar with.
I’m not going to lie… I was REALLY nervous about this trip. I had no idea how cruises worked, I didn’t know if I was going to make friends with anyone, and I certainly didn’t know if I was going to get seasick or not.
The reason why I chose NCL was because they offered “Studio” rooms that are meant for solo passengers. Unlike other cruise lines or resorts, you do not have to pay a single supplement fee when you book a studio cabin.
Along with the studio cabin, the other benefit was the daily solo traveler “meet-up.” In the key-access only, studio cabin area (mid ship, interior), there is a two-story bar/coffee/hang-out area where the meetings taking place. There is a representative from NCL that helps you break the ice with fellow solo cruisers, and you eventually get to know everyone. There are organized dinners you can join, along with the option to hang out at different events together.
Even though I was traveling alone… I never actually felt alone. I made friends instantly and spent time with them for the majority of my trip. One of whom, is still my very good friend and we have continued to travel together.
Since my first NCL cruise I have been on a total of 9 NCL cruises. One of those cruises took me on my first ever trip to Europe, which I also did solo.
I cannot recommend cruising enough, for a solo traveler, especially with Norwegian Cruise Line. I always felt safe, accounted for, and treated like royalty on all of my cruises.
I am planning on going on another cruise in 2020, since I utilize NCL’s “cruise next” promotion… now all I have to do is choose where I want to go!
Have you cruised solo? If so, what cruise line? I would love to know about your experience!
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