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Tips for cruising solo on a river cruise
Are you thinking about cruising on your own? Get ready for an exciting river adventure…
That’s because cruising solo isn't about being alone. It's about embracing the freedom to be yourself.
Take a look at our Top Tips for choosing the best river cruises for solo travellers.
Tip 1: Check the ship’s single cabins
All river cruises take place on ships that are narrower and smaller than their ocean-going cousins.
But that doesn’t mean you have to stay in a cramped bunk!
Far from it. Modern river ships offer an array of cabin types and sizes, some with balconies for gentle views as you float along the river, visiting one destination after the next.
Even single cabins can be surprisingly sizable on modern river vessels, such as Saga’s boutique river ships, Spirit of the Rhine and Spirit of the Danube – each ship has 12 dedicated single cabins each.
But single cabins are always the most popular on river ships, so early booking is recommended.
Tip 2: Choose a more sociable cruise line
Cruising solo doesn’t have to mean spending time alone.
Sailing along the rivers of Europe, then setting off to explore, enjoying excursions followed by drinks at the ship’s bar – all are very sociable activities.
It just depends on the river cruise line you choose – so read reviews, order brochures, and try to see what the ship you’re thinking about is really like.
Saga’s cruises for over 50s means a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the perfect setting for your solo adventure. You’ll be on board with like-minded travellers, a friendly Cruise Director and crew, and all backed by Saga’s care to attention and detail.
Of course, a relaxing river cruise can also be perfect for some quiet ‘me time’, if that’s what you’re looking for.
It’s all about finding balance.
Tip 3: Consider a smaller ship
Looking for more solo cruise tips?
The best cruises for solo travellers are sometimes those on the smaller river ships.
Why? A smaller ship really adds to the social aspect of your cruise experience, and often means better on-board service too.
Being on a less-crowded ship also means you can find quiet places to sit, read, and research your next stop on the itinerary – more of that below!
Tip 4: Plan what you want to do
Sailing away on your own can be really liberating. But it’s also a good idea to do some research before you go.
Maybe there’s a museum or castle you’d like to seek out… gardens or vineyards to explore… or even a spa or art gallery you’d like to visit.
Read books, browse the web, and get comfortable with where you’re going and the things you might like to do while you’re away. It’s the perfect way to feel confident about your trip.
Also pre-book your excursions – if any are included on your itinerary. That’s a great place to start your research and to get excited about the adventure ahead!
Tip 5: Book an all-inclusive cruise
Last but by no means least is that buzzword – all inclusive.
This is a great option for staying on top of your budget, with everything already included in the price before you leave home.
A word of warning though – there are river cruise lines that say they are ‘all inclusive’ – but check the small print to see what’s really included.
Saga’s river cruises, however, offer even more than just all-inclusive dining and drinks at the bar.
Included in the fare of every Saga river cruise, guests will be picked up at home by a chauffeur and driven to the airport or Eurostar station.
This included nationwide chauffeur service is what sets Saga river cruises apart, especially for solo cruisers.
Saga’s all-inclusive fares also include on-board Wi-Fi and tips (also known as ‘gratuities’) along with selected shore excursions, and even optional travel insurance and additional cancellation cover.
By booking an inclusive package for your river cruise, you can relax. It means less stress, knowing everything has been taken care of.
And no worries about getting a big bill at the end of your cruise either!
Saga’s river cruises for solo travellers
If you’ve enjoyed reading our tips for travelling solo on a river cruise, why not start planning your river adventure?
Take a look at the range of all-inclusive river cruises available with Saga. Each one offers a sociable, welcoming way to cruise with other like-minded travellers.
Whatever you decide, here’s to enjoying life from the riverbank in 2024!
Find out more about our Saga river cruises.
The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.
The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.
