Having Second Thoughts...

[africanviolet]

I'm an experienced cruiser, but I'm now having second thoughts that I can go through with cruising alone. I would hope that I meet others on the cruise that I could dine with, etc. but that's no guarantee. Carnival's solo rates are very good and I need to be on a beach but I'm thinking about canceling and rescheduling for next year when someone else could go. Also, there will be a newer ship (the Liberty) doing the same itinerary next year.

 

I purchased the insurance so I would get 75% back as a credit. Any advice is appreciated.

[laedw]

I'm an experienced cruiser, but I'm now having second thoughts that I can go through with cruising alone. I would hope that I meet others on the cruise that I could dine with, etc. but that's no guarantee. Carnival's solo rates are very good and I need to be on a beach but I'm thinking about canceling and rescheduling for next year when someone else could go. Also, there will be a newer ship (the Liberty) doing the same itinerary next year.

 

I purchased the insurance so I would get 75% back as a credit. Any advice is appreciated.

 

Go solo on your cruise. I have read on several threads that once on board the ship you should go to the dining room and ask the head waiter to seat you with other solo travelers.

 

I too was apprehensive about cruising solo but I got over it after the first solo cruise. I met some wonderful people on the ship that I took excursions with, dined with, and met for drinks at various entertainment venues on the ship. Please do not pass up an opportunity to cruise especially since you have already paid! When I wanted some alone time I simply went back to my cabin! :D

[Lois R]

Hi,:) I am an experienced cruiser as well and in my case, exeperienced

in solo cruising too.

I started cruising 10 years ago and have close to 40 cruises now.

All but 2 have been solo.......it is the only way I sail:). If I waited

to go with someone? I would never go and that is no longer an option

for me. I have no partner, mate, etc...and most of my friends do

not even live in the same city so there is nobody to go with and that

is fine with me.

Going solo is my choice and I absolutely love it:D...doing what I want,

when I want, or if I don't want to do anything at all? I can do that

too. Also, I have lived alone for almost my entire adult life and I have

absolutely no desire to share a cabin. It is all about a person's

priorities really. Having my own space is a prority for me...but I have

also met some wonderful people over the years and we are now

lifelong friends!

 

I agree with the previous poster...give it a go...I bet you will end

up having a fantastic time:).....I love cruising solo and hope you

will too........:D

[bottomfeeder]

Like the previous responders, I also think you should go this year, solo, as planned. I had always cruised with my husband and/or kids but after my divorce and with my kids grown up I decided to try a solo cruise because I missed cruising. It was great!

 

I admit to being a pretty introverted person, and I live alone and travel a lot for work alone, so my experience cruising solo may not be the same as yours...but I found the freedom to do just what I wanted, and the relaxation, wonderful.

 

Join your roll call if you'd like to find others to share cabs to/from the beach in your ports, or share tours, or maybe even link your reservations together and share a table at dinner. Then you'll have someone to "hang around" with and yet you can still decide what to do when, and be alone when you want.

 

Anyhow, what is the alternative? If you took a flight to a beach destination and stayed in a hotel, wouldn't you be on your own there as well? And without the opportunity to meet others that you have on a cruise ship. :)

[headhunterke]

I'll never go another way, but the solo way on a cruise ship. It's totally awesome.

You meet others so easily and you do whatever you like, whenever you like.

I can't imagine sharing my cabin with someone else. Ooh, the horror :p

[Hoopster95]

I'm an experienced cruiser, but I'm now having second thoughts that I can go through with cruising alone. I would hope that I meet others on the cruise that I could dine with, etc. but that's no guarantee. Carnival's solo rates are very good and I need to be on a beach but I'm thinking about canceling and rescheduling for next year when someone else could go. Also, there will be a newer ship (the Liberty) doing the same itinerary next year.

 

I purchased the insurance so I would get 75% back as a credit. Any advice is appreciated.

 

I agree with all replies so far... GO SOLO!! :D

 

In my case I had never gone solo and was very apprehensive the first time. It's fantastic. I've met introverted solos/couples and extroverted solos/couples... doesn't really matter what your personality. No one cares!!! Make the vacation what you want it to be. I'm personally extroverted and by the end of the cruise I'm saying hi & talking to people I know all over the ship and having conversations about their day. Dinner at the MDR is always a hoot because the couples always ask you about your full day in detail and want to live vicariously through you and your freedoms lol!

 

Enjoy the experience, it's liberating :)

[3dogsrule]

OP, I'd concur with the others and say go for it, especially if not going forward means losing money. I've got my first solo scheduled in a month [one month, five days, 18 hours], but I just know I'm going to love it, because I enjoy spending time alone, and will be making little effort to find people to hang with on my cruise (if it happens, fine, but if not, great!). :D

 

But before I'd try to talk you into something, not knowing you, what is your comfort level if...small chance but if...you didn't find anyone to hang out with, to dine with? Can you imagine eating alone in a restaurant, or would that be horrible for you? Can you find peace sitting on a chaise lounge watching the ocean go by? Would you have a drink in the piano bar alone? If you're the type who doesn't want to do most things by yourself, I'd definitely make a concerted effort to get involved with your roll call, and if you don't click with people there, then I could understand backing out.

 

I know on my past roll calls, we've met solo travelers, and then once on board invited them to dinner, on excursions, etc. with our group. And even if your roll call is a dud but you're okay with some alone time, you'll be able to meet people on board, if you're extroverted enough to smile and say hi, how's your cruise going to a stranger. I myself am not extroverted, but I usually travel with extroverts and have never seen a negative reply to that question. People usually like talking about themselves. :rolleyes:

 

But all the above said, I hope you'll go forward and be able to enjoy your vacation. :)

[tjncanada]

I'm quite sure that apprehension like this is normal and every one of us that has gone forward with solo cruising has gone through this period where we go over in our mind whether we've done the right thing in booking.

 

The "problem" is that in our society in general we've been programmed to think that a person traveling alone without a partner, a friend, or a group is exceptional and is destined for a lonely experience. We're probably surrounded by people who believe this can only be the case. On these boards you will hear from many solo cruisers who thoroughly enjoy the freedom going solo allows.

 

It's all great advice here so far. I would add going through the daily ship bulletin and participating in as many of the activities that appeal to you.

 

There will be time when you're on your own. Personally I treasure that time for reflection on life or catching up on my reading. Living on my own I have plenty of time alone but it seems to quickly get filled with cooking, housekeeping, paperwork, shopping, etc. When you're on a cruise everything is looked after so why not enjoy your time?

 

If the prospect of at least occasionally dining, enjoying the entertainment, or going ashore alone is intimidating/uncomfortable then it might not be for you.

 

However, that being said cruising offers many opportunities to interact with your fellow travellers that you don't experience in other forms of travel. I've met many people - solos, groups, couples, younger, older.

 

Odds are you will find the conventional thinking that cruising by yourself is an lonely and awkward time wrong, wrong, wrong. You might even come to prefer it this way and having the issue next time of coming up with ways to dodge people that want want to come with you!

[africanviolet]

OP, I'd concur with the others and say go for it, especially if not going forward means losing money. I've got my first solo scheduled in a month [one month, five days, 18 hours], but I just know I'm going to love it, because I enjoy spending time alone, and will be making little effort to find people to hang with on my cruise (if it happens, fine, but if not, great!). :D

 

But before I'd try to talk you into something, not knowing you, what is your comfort level if...small chance but if...you didn't find anyone to hang out with, to dine with? Can you imagine eating alone in a restaurant, or would that be horrible for you? Can you find peace sitting on a chaise lounge watching the ocean go by? Would you have a drink in the piano bar alone? If you're the type who doesn't want to do most things by yourself, I'd definitely make a concerted effort to get involved with your roll call, and if you don't click with people there, then I could understand backing out.

 

I know on my past roll calls, we've met solo travelers, and then once on board invited them to dinner, on excursions, etc. with our group. And even if your roll call is a dud but you're okay with some alone time, you'll be able to meet people on board, if you're extroverted enough to smile and say hi, how's your cruise going to a stranger. I myself am not extroverted, but I usually travel with extroverts and have never seen a negative reply to that question. People usually like talking about themselves. :rolleyes:

 

But all the above said, I hope you'll go forward and be able to enjoy your vacation. :)

 

I like the idea of having the cabin to myself. My concerns are with dining and hanging out on the islands. I could eat @ the buffet alone but I probably wouldn't venture into the dining room alone unless I'm able to arrange a table with other solos.

 

There seems to be a couple of other solos on the roll call but no one has mentioned dining together or tours, etc. I don't want to impose on anyone.

 

The solo cruising isn't my only concern. It's also the ship itself, the Ecstasy. The reviews are mixed about what to expect.

 

I appreciate everyone's advice and input. It's very helpful.

[Lois R]

I like the idea of having the cabin to myself. My concerns are with dining and hanging out on the islands. I could eat @ the buffet alone but I probably wouldn't venture into the dining room alone unless I'm able to arrange a table with other solos.

 

There seems to be a couple of other solos on the roll call but no one has mentioned dining together or tours, etc. I don't want to impose on anyone.

 

The solo cruising isn't my only concern. It's also the ship itself, the Ecstasy. The reviews are mixed about what to expect.

 

I appreciate everyone's advice and input. It's very helpful.

 

 

If you are unhappy with your choice of ships? Can't you see if there

another one you might like better? Carnival must have 2 dozen

ships to pick from:eek:

As for dining, roll calls are a great way to meet others:D....if nobody

has mentioned sharing a table? Why don't You mention it? It is not

imposing to ask the question......someone else may want to share

as well. You will never know unless you ask:)

[jeansaussie1]

My concerns are with dining and hanging out on the islands.

 

This is my system for going to a beach alone and keeping valuables safe.

 

Buy a Loksak Splashsak pouch for money, ID and cell phone. I've snorkeled with it 3 times and it stayed dry. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Loksak-Black-SPLASHSAK-Super-Tough-7-x-6-Phone-Waterproof-Protection-Bag-/350836369556?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item51af7a2894

 

Wear a waterproof watch.

 

Bring a waterproof camera into water with you. I have Cannon D20. 3 trips and no leaks

 

Bring a beach beach bag with white towel from ship. That way there is no problem if it's lost. Since I'm mainly in the water, often I will leave bag on a rock and not bother with a chair.

Edited November 2, 2013 by jeansaussie1

[travelnap]

I think you should go for it. Please take the reviews with a grain of salt as some reviews are too rosy and some are too negative. I have seen ships with not the best review be very good and those that were nothing but praise turn out to be not my favorite ship. They are subjective in many ways and everyone looks at things differently.

 

It looks like you may have open dining, so if you want to dine with others just go to the MDR and let them know that you want to dine with others & they will seat you at a large table. I have met some very interesting people that way. Your roll call may also be a source for dining partners as others have posted.

 

As far as port excursions I usually do the ship's excursions or join with someone on the roll call if I am not familiar with the port. I think if you will give it a try you will enjoy yourself. Good luck and happy sailing.

Edited November 2, 2013 by travelnap

[squadron]

I'll never go another way, but the solo way on a cruise ship. It's totally awesome.

You meet others so easily and you do whatever you like, whenever you like.

I can't imagine sharing my cabin with someone else. Ooh, the horror :p

Hate to admit it but I'm 72 - sailed with husband but now on my own - sailed 5 times solo and love it. Do traditional dining and have always had good table mates. If you are not happy - just ask to switch tables. Do ship excursions, meet and greet and roll call. I sail RCI and once Celebrity. Smile and talk to people. After the first day I find those travelling with others are happy to "branch out". I feel safe on board - use common sense. I ignore the doom and gloom of TV programs about unsafe cruise ships. Did a cruise with three long time friends and felt "hemmed in". Like the freedom of doing what I want when I want - after all you are used to being alone in "real life". I especially want my own room (happy with interior).

[headhunterke]

I know exactly what you feel. I'm used to travel with friends and have no problem with it. But it's different on a ship. While most ships are big enough, you're feeling kind of obligated to spend more time together then you'd do on land. Then you can feel the relief (but nobody dares to admit it) when you got some time alone to prepare for diner or so.

You'll meet a lot of wonderful people travelling alone.

Edited November 3, 2013 by headhunterke

[Bonzy49]

I am gojng on my first solo in May and have asked to be seated with other solos for dinner.

Would that be an option for you?

[SJS]

I sailed last month on the Ecstasy and loved it! It was easy to find your way around, good food and entertainment. I even won in the casino one night! I sailed with my 18 year old grandson so at times I was by myself. People were friendly and I never felt lonely. I ended up going to the main dining room one evening without him and it was fine. That all being said, I'm still not sure I would enjoy a "solo" cruise. But if it's the Ecstasy you are worried about, don't be! It's a fine ship!

[Colorado Kat]

I prefer traveling with others, but if I can't find anyone else to go with, I am not going to sit at home.

 

I've been on 3 cruises as a solo, and 8 European trips by myself.

 

Try the dining room for the first night. If you don't like it, then ask to be re-assigned, or eat in the buffet.

[jandjtexas]

I just returned from my first solo yesterday. I was worried also, but that went away quickly. I didn't plan to eat in the MDR every night, maybe just for the lobster, but that changed. The first night was Halloween and I sat and people watched for a few hours, missed dinner completely! Ordered room service after the Welcome Aboard show. The next night was Elegant Night and I dressed and went to get my lobster tail. I requested a table alone and did not feel at all out of place. I also dressed and had dinner in the MDR for the next two nights. Sometimes I read, sometimes I just relaxed. It seemed like the service was better and quicker being solo. I was in and out in under an hour each time. I also ate alone at brunch to get my free drink. I went to the main shows, the comedy shows and watched the hairy man and ice carving shows alone. Never had a problem finding a good seat!

One thing to remember when cruising solo is you have all that room to yourself! I loved it and hope Carnival has another special so I can book again solo.

Hope you decide to go and have a great time! :)

[maxandmolly]

I just got off my second solo-on the Ecstasy-last week. Without even talking to the Maître D, I was seated at a table with solos and pairs (cousins, wife & DIL, etc), and dinner in the MDR every night became quite entertaining. I found plenty of people to be social with when I wanted, and alone when I wanted.

It's really a fantastic way to travel for many people. I would encourage you to try it at least once, with a mindset that you will have a great vacation. Vacation is what you make it.

[africanviolet]

I just got off my second solo-on the Ecstasy-last week. Without even talking to the Maître D, I was seated at a table with solos and pairs (cousins, wife & DIL, etc), and dinner in the MDR every night became quite entertaining. I found plenty of people to be social with when I wanted, and alone when I wanted.

It's really a fantastic way to travel for many people. I would encourage you to try it at least once, with a mindset that you will have a great vacation. Vacation is what you make it.

 

Maxandmolly, did you have Anytime dining or set dining? Thanks.

[maxandmolly]

Maxandmolly, did you have Anytime dining or set dining? Thanks.

 

I had late seating. My table had solos, a set of cousins, two friends, etc. Various groups of us ended up spending time together outside of dinner. I would not, as a solo, do ATD. I think most people who do that are looking to keep to themselves, not share a table. So it depends on what you're looking for from your cruise.

[bottomfeeder]

I had late seating. My table had solos, a set of cousins, two friends, etc. Various groups of us ended up spending time together outside of dinner. I would not, as a solo, do ATD. I think most people who do that are looking to keep to themselves, not share a table. So it depends on what you're looking for from your cruise.

 

And I'd disagree with you on the ATD. I always do that and most of the time I ask to share a table and it's generally worked out great as a solo. Oftentimes there are other solos at my table.

[maxandmolly]

And I'd disagree with you on the ATD. I always do that and most of the time I ask to share a table and it's generally worked out great as a solo. Oftentimes there are other solos at my table.

*shrug* YMMV

[funone2]

Carnival has good solo rates? I thought they stop doing that a few years ago? Last I looked, you had to pay double the rates for ANY cabins.

 

Did I miss a change in policy with Carnival?

[funone2]

Go solo on your cruise. I have read on several threads that once on board the ship you should go to the dining room and ask the head waiter to seat you with other solo travelers.

 

:D

 

The head waiter always tries to seat people together that are single as long as they are in the same age range. If you're a 25 year old single, they will NOT seat you with a 75 year old single, since you would have nothing in common.

 

If there were no other singles around your age group, they would try to seat you with other passengers that are near your age, even if they are married.

 

They usually try to avoid seating singles with families.