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Solo holiday help and advice

(9 Posts)
Elenkalubleton Fri 24-Oct-25 15:03:50

Hi Ladies,I am thinking of going on a cruise on my own,my husband is in a home (Alzheimer’s)I’m not interested in meeting anyone for romantic or even platonic relationship,but would feel awkward on a couples cruise ship,especially dining alone.
I’ve googled lots,and read about the (pineapple) upside down on the cabin doors significance 😜scary! I’ve read that Norwegian cruises are very good for singles.
Would appreciate any help from any of you. Thanks.Sorry have been a member in the past, just put in my original user name.

Sago Fri 24-Oct-25 16:28:04

Most cruises have a singles meet up.

Lathyrus3 Fri 24-Oct-25 17:27:46

You dont eat alone in the restaurants unless you specifically request that. You chose either to be on a table with the same people each evening or, with freedom dining, on a table with different people each evening. Quite often the people on the table then go on to the show together or get a drink together after the meal.

If you go to activities most of the time people don’t take part as couples anyway. They tend to go off and do their own interests. There’s always more men at the competitive sports stuff and more women at crafting, music etc.

I don’t think you’d find a cruise awkward because you were alone.

bikergran Sat 25-Oct-25 09:18:47

What is the "pineapple upside down" never heard it before (I must have led a sheltered life) confused

Elenkalubleton Sat 25-Oct-25 09:28:46

Pineapple means,your interested in swapping partners.🙀I’ve been on many cruises with my husband,but don’t want a cubby hole for a cabin,any of you out there can tell me of your experiences ? Also would you go again as a solo passenger.

bikergran Tue 28-Oct-25 09:26:38

blush

aonk Tue 28-Oct-25 11:44:58

I think that some of the companies which do holidays for people travelling alone also do cruises. They organise for a group of people to be on the ship and then they have others in a similar situation.

keepingquiet Tue 28-Oct-25 12:35:31

I know someone who has been single for years and goes on lots of cruises- she finds them very safe.

butterandjam Tue 28-Oct-25 12:54:55

I would strongly recommend picking a cruise with frequent harbour visits (Norway coast is ideal). Avoid the ones with long blocks of days at sea (boring!) when everyone is stuck on board (unless you enjoy bridge and daft games).

Port days you have a choice of either joining an organised outing or going off on your own to find a museum or walk or shopping. Norway is very safe for that. Pick smaller boats whwre disembarcation is faster.

On board there will be choice of meal options; either relaxed find a table and sit with a book, or "regular tables" with the same diners; the solos are often seated together on a table of 6. IF you don;t enjoy your allocated companions , at the end of the meal just ask the head waiter to re-seat you at the next meal . They are supremely tactful.