9 Ways To Be Social on a Solo Cruise (It’s Not A Monastery!!)

Get over the mistaken notion that you’re on Noah’s Ark, where people are already paired two by two. It’s also not a singles cruise where people are looking for love (although there’s nothing wrong with that!).

Cruising offers unparalleled opportunities for solo travelers, as well as couples and families, to make new friends and travel companions. Think about it: Except for high school or college, when was the last time you were immersed in the same place, among people with similar interests, doing the same thing, at the same time?

Here are some tips for making friends on a solo cruise:

1- Choose your ship wisely

Larger ships generally offer more opportunities for socializing, with more people, more lounges, and designated social directors to help with introductions. However, small ships promote intimacy and put you in close contact with the same people over and over. Which style fits your fancy?

2- Find your tribe before you board

Register with www.cruisecritic.com. Visit the message boards and locate the Roll Call for your ship. Talk to passengers on your upcoming cruise and arrange to meet them when you are on board. One solo traveler found her dinner companions while waiting for the shuttle bus to the port.

3- Conjure up conversation starters

While you’re still home packing, create a mental list of opening lines: Have you been on this ship before? Why did you choose this cruise? Where’s home for you? Are you a frequent cruiser? 

4- Position yourself

Get thee to the Sailaway Party. Anyone who is social will also be there.

And/or strike up a conversation in the self-service launderette with another captive waiting out a wash or dry cycle. Sit on the empty stool next to someone at the bar. Take a lounge chair at the pool next to another single person. Go into the card room and see if there is a group playing canasta or Mah Jongg.

5- Take a class

Whether it’s history, wine, photography, Yoga, cooking, or bridge, sign up for a class with people who share common interests. You may find a kindred spirit.

6- Break bread

To maximize opportunities to meet new people, opt for open seating and ask the maître D’ to seat you at the largest table in the dining room. Chat it up with crew and guest lecturers, too.

7- Follow up

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and making friends takes some time and effort. Be sure to initiate and show your friendliness by smiling and reaching out to others. For example, offer to take a picture of that woman or guy struggling to take a Selfie beside the sea.

8- Don’t limit yourself to other solo travelers

Invite the couple that stood beside you at the muster drill to share your taxi at the next port.

9- Plan a second encounter

Invite prospects you’ve met at dinner or for a drink at the Happy Hour the next day. Ask for their email. You may even make a forever friend if you are lucky.

[This post was revised and updated. It was previously published in the Chicago Tribune.]

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