In April 2022, a solo traveler embarked on their first cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, a ship known as one of the largest in the world. The seven-night journey included stops at Roatán, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; and Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. The traveler noted several surprising elements of cruising alone.
One notable surprise was the cost of the cabin. Cruise ship staterooms are typically designed for at least two guests, so booking a room for one often requires paying a “single supplement,” a fee meant to compensate for the revenue lost from an unoccupied second berth. In this instance, the solo traveler paid around $2,000 for an ocean-view stateroom, roughly double the per-person price compared to booking with a companion. The Wonder of the Seas did not offer solo-specific cabins.
Socializing on the ship exceeded the traveler’s expectations. Despite initial doubts about meeting new people, interactions came easily. Other passengers — including couples, families, and fellow solo cruisers — were willing to talk and exchange travel stories, especially in common areas such as pool decks and dining venues.
Cruise excursions presented another opportunity for social engagement. The traveler opted for cruise-line organized tours at each port, finding the logistics straightforward due to clear signage and guidance from staff. Group activities like hiking tours fostered camaraderie among participants, making it easier to meet others. For instance, on a guided hike in Roatán, the traveler met several fellow cruisers, including another solo traveler.
An unexpected aspect of the trip involved crew members repeatedly asking where the traveler’s parents were, likely due to the traveler’s youthful appearance. This experience highlighted that solo travelers in their mid-20s may stand out on such cruises.
Despite the ship’s vast size, securing a pool chair by midday proved challenging, with many seats taken or reserved by towels — a practice not always enforced by staff. As a result, arriving early was necessary to find a spot.
While the overall experience was described as enjoyable, moments of loneliness were also acknowledged. Being surrounded by families and groups led to a desire for familiar companionship. The traveler concluded that future cruises would ideally include a companion to share experiences and conversations.
This firsthand account illustrates both the positive and challenging aspects of solo cruising on a large modern vessel, offering insights for those considering similar trips.
