What's sailing solo with Marella Cruises really like?
Solo cruising can seem daunting, but it can also be a wonderful way to roam the globe without the risks of going it alone, from simplicity to safety. We've unearthed the benefits.
Flying solo might be the better-known phrase, but cruising solo can be much more fun when done right. Cruise lines like Marella* make travelling alone feel anything but lonely. With dedicated events, sociable dining and single cabins designed for one, sailing solo could be your most carefree holiday yet.
If you want to be completely free of kids, the line has an adults-only ship, Marella Explorer 2*, while the brand's four other ships all cater for single globetrotters, too. Here's what cruising for one with Marella is really like.
Find your perfect cruise: set sail on a solo voyage with Marella Cruises* for less than you might expect; see the latest online offers on itineraries* and book your next adventure.
Strength in numbers
Worried about feeling like Billy No-Mates? Fear not. Every Marella cruise has a Guest Experience Coordinator who looks out for solo travellers. They arrange special get-togethers like coffee mornings, hosted dinners and farewell drinks, giving you an easy way to meet others.
Prefer to dip in and out? No problem. There's no pressure to join; you can pick and choose what you fancy. And remember, once the getaway is over, you'll never see any of your fellow guests again, so if you don't fancy speaking to a soul, that's absolutely fine too.
Table for one
Dining alone can be hugely liberating, but if you'd rather not eat by yourself, have a word with the Restaurant Manager; they'll seat you with other guests so you can swap travel tales over dinner.
Cruisers are famously friendly, sociable types, so don't be afraid to ask newfound companions if you can join their group yourself, either.
Again, if you want to dine without company, you do you. There are heaps of options to choose from on Marella ships (depending on which vessel you plump for): Mexican, Spanish, Italian, French, pan-Asian, British and more. And a table for one means you get to go exactly where you want to eat, no compromise needed.
Every Marella Cruises' ship serves up at least seven dining spots, from steakhouses to international buffets. You'll have at least four included as part of your all-inclusive cruise, with the option to upgrade to speciality venues.
There's no shortage of snacks either, with grab-and-go bites and late-night buffets available. Plus, with no fewer than seven bars onboard serving wines, spirits, beers and fizz, drinks are always close to hand; useful if you're after liquid courage to chat to potential pals.
Room of one's own
Unlike some cruise lines where singles are forced to pay for a double cabin, Marella has single cabins available across the fleet that don't come wth a single supplement. You'll find both inside and outside options, depending on whether you fancy waking up to a sea view or are happy with a cosy spot inside.
Single cabins are cleverly designed with solo travellers in mind, offering all the same features as doubles; think comfy beds that convert to queen-size, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, safe and a proper en suite with a shower. They're popular, though, so booking early is a good idea.
Of course, you don't need to limit your quarters to solo cabins if you're on your tod. There are balcony cabins and suites you can treat yourself to if you have the cash to splash.
Treat yourself
Marella's USP is that it's all-inclusive as standard, which is a huge bonus when you're travelling alone and don't want to risk going over budget.
You won't need to worry about splitting bills or keeping tabs on who ordered what. Drinks, meals, tips; they're all covered. It makes life onboard much simpler and means you can indulge in that extra cocktail without feeling guilty.
What's more, there's oodles of entertainment onboard all included in the cost of the cruise, from West End-style shows and live music to poolside movies and mini golf. You can be as busy or as relaxed as you like.
Activities can be a great way to meet shipmates, too; whether that's seeing if you can join (or assemble!) a quiz team or finding fellow music lovers at band performances.
There are even kitchen classes, cocktail-making demos and wine-tasting sessions along with fitness classes and fun at the casino. There are bound to be others onboard with your interests to bond over.
Join the gang
When it comes to exploring ashore, Marella keeps things flexible. You can join group shore excursions, a great way to meet others, or head out independently if you're happier pottering around solo.
The shore excursions cover everything from pizza-making in Naples to wine-tasting in Ancona and tuk-tuk tours around Kotor's old town. If you'd rather follow your own itinerary, you can easily disembark and do your own thing too.
Small world
Marella's ships are generally smaller and more easy-going than the mega-liners of other big cruise lines. That's great news if you're travelling solo, as they're typically less overwhelming and much easier to connect with fellow passengers.
Ships carry between 1,800 and 2,000 passengers; big enough for variety but small enough that you might start recognising familiar faces after a day or two. You're never far from a friendly bar, a sunny deck chair or someone to chat to if you fancy it.
Where to, Captain?
Marella Cruises tick off plenty of destinations in one go, perfect if you want to make the most of your trip. In the Med, you could wake up in Cyprus*, Greece* and Turkey* all in the same week. Further afield, Caribbean* routes let you hop between tropical islands without the faff of multiple flights.
A current solo cruise offer, for example, includes a seven-night Grecian Discovery* sailing on Marella Discovery 2* visiting Limassol, Athens, Santorini, Bodrum, Crete and Rhodes, all from under £2,000 for a single outside cabin. Not bad considering it's all-inclusive with flights too.
Should you?
Marella Cruises offers an appealing set-up for solo travellers*. The inclusive prices, efforts to bring solo guests together and welcoming, easygoing atmosphere all make for a smooth sailing experience.
Whether you're a seasoned solo adventurer or dipping your toe into independent travel for the first time, Marella makes it feel relaxed, friendly and, crucially, fun. So less of Jamie O'Neal's 'All By Myself' and more Jason Derulo's 'Ridin' Solo'. Who's in?
Ready to book? See our current collection of offers on all Marella Cruises worldwide.
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