Solo cruising is a liberating and exciting way to holiday, giving you independence to decide on every detail. Getting away from the usual festivities at home and discovering Christmas in a new destination is the perfect gift to yourself, whether you’re celebrating solo on the golden sands of the Caribbean or shopping at Christmas Markets in Europe.
Why you should cruise solo
With the ability to choose from any itinerary available, you can visit the ports you’ve always dreamed of exploring. With the freedom to create your perfect cruise holiday, you’ll be able to choose from a range of fantastic add ons, from upgrading to a luxury suite to spending a few extra days in your final port. If you’re not quite finished enjoying the Christmas celebrations abroad , there are plenty of great cruise and stay options available for further destination immersion during your holiday.
Cruising solo doesn’t have to be as expensive as you might think either. With numerous cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line and P&O Cruises offering comfortable single cabins, it’s now more affordable than ever. Other lines offer reduced single supplements too, such as Ponant Cruises and CroisiEurope.
Whether you crave the festive atmosphere of a European Christmas Market, or would rather avoid the hustle and bustle and are looking for some peace and relaxation, the perfect cruise is out there.
Christmas Market Cruises
A European river cruise makes visiting some of the best Christmas Markets in the world easier than ever. Being onboard a river ship makes a far more intimate cruise experience, allowing you to mingle with fellow guests as much or as little as you’d like, onboard and onshore. Simply enjoy the live entertainment, soak up the regional cuisine and look forward to waking up in a new city each day.
Shore excursions are frequently included in the fare of river cruises, and particularly in winter these activities are a real highlight. Take a walking tour of Bruges, admiring the fairy-tale architecture decked out in lights, and visit a real, traditional German Christmas Market in Frankfurt with its huge festive tree.
A Caribbean Christmas
It’s no wonder so many consider the Caribbean to be akin to paradise, and at Christmas time, the islands are no different. With friendly locals to welcome you, glorious sunshine each day and endless sandy beaches to stretch out on, you can relax in peace in your own company, or join newfound friends at a beachside bar. If you’re looking for an escape from the colder weather, a Caribbean cruise is the one for you!
Exotic Cruises at Christmas
For something extra special, consider crossing a more exotic country off of your bucket list. Cruising solo gives you the freedom to venture further afield to destinations you may not otherwise consider, with experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime. Voyage to Singapore and countdown the New Year at the renowned Marina Bay, or start the new year off right with a safari in South Africa. There are plenty of fantastic cruise lines ready to celebrate with you in style, from Royal Caribbean to Fred. Olsen Cruises.
Christmas on a Cruise Ship
The destination isn’t the only highlight of a solo cruise. Cruise lines have come further and further in offering a wide variety of onboard activities, giving you unforgettable experiences onboard as well as onshore. Below are just some of the activities you can get stuck into in winter.
- Craft workshops
- Cookery classes
- Educational lectures
- Formal dances
- Luxury spa treatments
Taking advantage of the entertainment programme is a great way to meet other like-minded travellers, though you’ll also have the opportunity to mingle at dinner times as well as during dances, where cruise lines often provide gentleman and lady hosts to pair up with.
Finally, it’s important to remember that a solo cruise can be whatever you want it to be! You are truly in control of your own itinerary whether you’re relaxing by the pool on the sundeck or exploring a new city. Cruise lines release different offers throughout the year for solo cruisers so it’s worth doing some further research into your favourites, though if you’re feeling stuck get in touch with our team here for more advice.
