Top Solo Travel Cruises for Adventurers

As a seasoned solo traveler, I have two vacation interests that are often at odds: the need for adventure and the desire to explore independently. Solo travel isn’t merely a default choice for those who are single but rather a fulfilling avenue for those yearning to embrace new cultures and experiences. Not all who wander are lost, and many solo travelers are driven by ambitious travel goals that may not align with a partner’s schedule or interests.

Why Choose Solo Travel?

Traveling alone allows you to select destinations based solely on your preferences. Each year, I set a travel goal, often fulfilling it independently because my travel companions may not share the same vision. For instance, this year, my aim is to visit a new continent—specifically, Egypt—by cruising the Nile on the S.S. Sudan. With Original Travel, I can enjoy the luxury of having all logistics taken care of, which is essential when planning a far-flung international itinerary solo.

1. Crystal Symphony’s Alaskan Discovery Cruise

Departing from Vancouver, British Columbia, this round-trip Crystal Cruises voyage takes you to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, Alaska, over a seven-day journey through the Alaskan wilderness.

• Must-Experience: Embrace a glacier point wilderness safari in Skagway where you’ll journey aboard a catamaran, then canoe to the Davidson Glacier, keeping an eye out for marine life and stunning landscapes.

2. Original Travel’s Ply the Nile and Dive the Red Sea Cruise

This 12-day journey begins in Cairo, visiting the iconic pyramids of Giza, followed by a flight to Aswan to embark on the S.S. Sudan while cruising the Nile.

• Must-Experience: Dive into the Red Sea during the last two days of the cruise, exploring vibrant marine life including turtles and barracudas.

3. Backroads’ Venice to Croatia Ocean Cruise Bike Tour

This cycling tour combines biking and cruising, offering an immersive experience from Venice to Croatia, including picturesque rides through historic towns.

• Must-Experience: Biking through the Konavle region along the scenic Adriatic coast.

4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises “Way of Emperors” Shanghai to Tokyo Cruise

This extensive 18-night cruise explores vibrant cities such as Beijing, along with culture and nightlife experiences in Kyoto and Hiroshima.

• Must-Experience: Hike to the summit of Mt. Sakurajima during your stop in Kagoshima to experience breathtaking views from one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

5. REI Adventures’ Discover Sri Lanka—Temples, Tea Trails, and Safaris Cruise

This 12-day adventure in Sri Lanka combines wildlife explorations with hiking trails throughout the captivating countryside.

• Must-Experience: Join a safari in Yala National Park to track leopards and enjoy the thrill of wildlife viewing.

6. Royal Caribbean Spice Route Cruise

This robust cruise experience allows you to explore the Middle East and Asian destinations like India and Singapore, providing an enriching cultural experience.

• Must-Experience: Jet ski along the coast while in Malaysia, a perfect adrenaline opportunity.

7. Crystal Cruises Jewels of the Indian Ocean

This cruise offers an incredible journey from Australia to Cape Town, including exquisite stops at Mauritius and Madagascar.

• Must-Experience: Adventure seekers can partake in a safari in Richards Bay, tracking wildlife at a private game reserve.

8. Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s Cruise and Stay Excursions

Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line offers unique experiences catered to solo travelers, featuring waived single-supplement fees and welcoming receptions for new voyagers.

• Must-Experience: Enjoy the Inland Blue Hole snorkel adventure, exploring stunning aquatic life and beautiful landscapes.

9. Original Travel’s Antarctica in a Nutshell Cruise

Embark on an extraordinary adventure beginning in Buenos Aires that takes you to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, before sailing on Original Travel’s Antarctic cruise.

• Must-Experience: Enjoy camping on the ice, complete with the magic of the midnight sun and opportunities to capture stunning photos.

10. Celebrity Cruises’ Galapagos Outer Loop and Machu Picchu

This enticing itinerary allows you to discover the Galapagos Islands while also experiencing transforms in Quito and Machu Picchu.

• Must-Experience: Snorkel at Champion Island, a prime opportunity to swim alongside gentle sea turtles.