Curator’s statement
Traveling solo on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) cruise is an unforgettable experience! With their solo traveler cabins, dedicated amenities for solo travelers and hosted events for solo cruisers, NCL makes it easy for independent travelers to feel included while enjoying the freedom of solo exploration. From my own solo cruise experience, I loved the Studio Lounge — a space exclusively for solo travelers — and the chance to connect with others at daily solo traveler meetups. Whether you're seeking tranquility, adventure or social connections, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a great cruise experience for solo travelers.
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Things to do
Relax in the Studio Lounge
If you're staying in a Studio Cabin, you'll automatically have access to the Studio Lounge. Check your Freestyle Daily (the ship's daily newsletter) for lounge hours and any scheduled activities. Simply use your keycard to enter the lounge, where you can enjoy complimentary snacks, coffee and a cozy social atmosphere.Attend solo traveler meetups
Norwegian Cruise Line organizes daily solo traveler meetups, which are listed in the Freestyle Daily. These meetups are typically held in the Studio Lounge or at one of the ship’s bars. Look for details like time and location in the newsletter or ask a crew member for assistance. Be sure to attend the first meetup — it’s a great way to connect with others early in the cruise.Explore onboard activities
Norwegian offers a wide range of onboard activities tailored to all guests, including solo travelers. The Freestyle Daily includes a full schedule of trivia games, dance classes, wine tastings and themed parties. You can also use the Norwegian Cruise Line app to check schedules, book activities and make dining reservations. For dining, request a shared table at restaurants if you'd like to meet other travelers.Join shore excursions
I’ve always had a great time doing shore excursions as a solo traveler. When you book a shore excursion through Norwegian, you're automatically grouped with other passengers. This means you'll have built-in travel companions for the day, eliminating the concern of being alone in an unfamiliar place. Additionally, it adds a layer of safety as a solo traveler. Norwegian's excursions are carefully curated to ensure safety and quality. They partner with trusted local guides and operators, so you can explore confidently without worrying about navigating on your own.
Norwegian makes it easy to book shore excursions directly through their website, the Norwegian Cruise Line app, or the onboard Shore Excursions desk. These excursions are group-based, making them perfect for solo travelers who want to explore with others. Popular options fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book in advance or on the first day of your cruise.
Day trips:
Norwegian Cruise Line vacation departs from many popular ports like Miami, New York or Seattle. All of these cities have great places to visit prior to your cruise. Consider these pre-cruise day trips:
Miami: Visit Little Havana, Wynwood Walls or take an Everglades airboat tour.
New York City: Explore Central Park, the High Line or catch a Broadway matinee.
Seattle: Spend a day at Pike Place Market, visit the Space Needle or ferry to Bainbridge Island.
Places to eat & drink
The Local Bar & Grill
This was one of my favorite spots on board for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. Open 24/7, The Local serves comfort food classics like fish and chips, chicken wings and burgers in a lively yet casual atmosphere. As a solo traveler, I loved sitting at the bar, where the bartenders were friendly and it was easy to chat with other cruisers.Onda by Scarpetta
Dining at Onda by Scarpetta was a real treat. This upscale Italian restaurant features freshly made pasta and delicious entrees like braised short ribs and seafood. The attentive staff made me feel completely at home, and the ambiance was perfect for savoring a luxurious meal on my own. I recommend reserving a table by the window for stunning ocean views while you dine.Cagney’s Steakhouse
Cagney’s is a must-visit for steak lovers. I treated myself to a perfectly cooked filet mignon, paired with sides like truffle fries and creamed spinach. As a solo diner, I was seated at a cozy table and felt pampered by the staff. The warm lighting and sophisticated decor made the experience extra special.The District Brew House
As a solo traveler, I enjoyed winding down at The District Brew House, where the vibe is laid-back and welcoming. With over 20 craft beers on tap and live music in the evenings, it’s a great place to mingle or simply relax with a cold drink. I especially loved trying a flight of unique brews while talking with other cruisers at the bar.
Each dining and drinking spot aboard Norwegian Cruise Line ships offer something unique for solo travelers, making every meal or drink a memorable part of the journey!
Need to know
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Travel Advisor
Tracy Nicholson
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