Solo Transatlantic Cruise on Celebrity Equinox

Taking a Transatlantic cruise may not be for everyone, as it’s not port-intensive (there were four port days and eight total sea days). But what the itinerary lacked in land days, they made up for with tons of onboard activities, including trivia, tai chi, dance classes and outdoor movies. They also had nightly entertainment that included four shows put on by the Celebrity staff entertainers, as well as featured guests (including American Idol runner-up Lou Gazzara, famed violinist David Klinkenberg, comedian Lamont Ferguson and magician Matt McGurk). Celebrity also separates itself from other cruise lines by their attention to spa-like spaces onboard (from the Solarium to their spa). It’s a rejuvenating way to spend many a day at sea.

We visited the ports of Bermuda (where I opted to do a self-guided walking tour of Hamilton), Ponta Delgada in the Azores (the absolutely stunning landscape is beyond the beauty photos showcase), Porto in Portugal (where I visited the Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima) and ending in Lisbon (a stunning city with so much to see & do, make sure you spend at least a few days exploring).

Image 1: A breakfast plate of eggs, bacon, sausage and coffee on a wooden, round table, outside on the deck of the sip, with the big blue sea in the background. Image 2: A view o sea and sky from the back end of the ship.

If you’re a solo traveler, other cruise lines like Virgin Voyages & Norwegian have dedicated solo cabins and lounges for congregating. Celebrity unfortunately doesn’t have these, but they host a meet-up on the first night (as do they for LGBTQ+ travelers and veterans). Many solo travelers hit it off famously and arrange to meet up for meals, shore excursions, onboard entertainment and even book future cruises together! It was a great experience that brought strangers together very quickly, so kudos to Celebrity for this.

I’ve sailed Celebrity several times, and it’s always an incredible experience. I’ve sailed it with friends, as a couple (including my honeymoon) and now as a solo traveler. They also cater to families (with onboard activities for kids and teens), but it’s in the former areas that they seem to really excel. If you’re looking for a restful, relaxing cruise where the crew pampers you and the food (even buffet food) is consistently good, then Celebrity is right for you.