Going on a cruise by yourself can be a very relaxing and enjoyable trip. But there are a few tips to keep in mind that can make your trip even more enjoyable. Having time to yourself is always nice, but there will be times when you will want other people to talk to. These tips can lay the groundwork for you, even if you are not terribly outgoing.
As you board the ship, be the person with the biggest smile and most genuine greeting for everyone you meet. As a single traveler, others might already be assuming that you prefer to be alone or that you don’t want company. Your smile and warm greeting will let the crew know that you are friendly and more than willing to strike up a conversation. In addition, you will likely not be labeled as one of the troublesome passengers who is never satisfied and always complaining.
If you are looking for a good place to just hang out during the cruise, find a bar that you like and take a seat off to the end of the bar. After the bartender delivers your drink, tip with a twenty, and you will have made your first friend. This tip is likely to get a few questions and an introduction. Then from time to time the bartender will make small talk and check to see if you need a fresh drink. Now you have a place to go for a little conversation without having to sit alone at a table somewhere and appear antisocial.
Joining into group activities is a great way to meet a large number of people and also to have some fun. It could be a trivia contest, a board game or even karaoke but get involved and remember that no one on the ship will ever see you again, so be brave and give it your best shot. There is something very freeing about not knowing anyone who sees you miss every trivial question or sing off key. Mingle and enjoy the opportunity, and if you don’t hit it off with the group then you can excuse yourself and return to a good book or a lounge chair on the deck.
Being alone on a cruise is not ever really going to happen except when you are in your cabin. There are people everywhere, and it is up to you to go out and meet a few and enjoy your time making new acquaintances and the time that you spend just enjoying your own company.
