Never Too Late for Adventure: What My First Solo Cruise Taught Me at 50

3 min read

If you’re feeling stuck in a rut or yearning for a fresh start, take it from this 50-year-old solo sailor: it’s never too late to set sail on an adventure that will redefine what you thought you were capable of.

Yes, turning 50 can sometimes feel like the cruise ship orchestra just switched to elevator music. But instead of wallowing in a midlife crisis pool float, I decided to take a Mediterranean cruise!

If you ever dreamt of having one, don’t let your fear of the unknown hold you back. However, be aware that while some cruise lines are offering more solo-friendly pricing, there can be a surcharge for single occupancy.

Pros and cons of solo cruising

Cruise ships are incredibly social spaces, with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow passengers over 50. There might be dedicated solo traveller meet-ups, or you can strike up conversations at the bar or during activities. But if you crave solitude, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your own company with a delicious meal on your balcony or getting lost in a book on a quiet deck.

Here are my pros and cons of solo cruising at 50.

Pros: The Undisputed Queen of My Domain

• Dining Solo? Divine! No more negotiating menus with picky grandkids or spouses who think ketchup is a vegetable. I devoured escargot guilt-free (mostly because I accidentally ordered them thinking they were fancy snails).
• Poolside Lounging? Leveled Up! No fighting for the perfect chaise or enduring endless conversations about someone’s podiatrist. I basked in the sun like a glorious, solitary sea lion (minus the blubber).
• Shore Excursions? Choose Your Own Adventure! No more schlepping through museums that bore you to tears. I went on a thrilling jet ski tour, because, why not? At 50, who cares if you take a tumble? (Though, let the record show, I did not.)

Cons: The Hilarious Obstacles of One-Woman Cruising

• The Great Room Service Debacle: Turns out, that requesting extra towels tends to raise eyebrows.
• The Perils of Parallel Parking Your Chaise Lounge: Apparently, poolside etiquette dictates a two-person minimum for reserving chairs. I may have accidentally “borrowed” a pool float to stake my claim.
• The Tango with Technology: Trying to decipher the cruise ship app while simultaneously fumbling with sunscreen and a rogue flip-flop is an Olympic sport I did not train for.

The Verdict: Is Solo Cruising Worth it?

Despite the minor mishaps, my solo cruise was a revelation. I discovered hidden depths of resilience (like untangling myself from the aforementioned pool float) and a newfound appreciation for my own company.

I believe one of the most significant advantages of cruising solo – or travelling solo in general – is the freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want. You can set your own itinerary, dine when and where you like, and participate in activities that interest you without needing to compromise with a travel companion.

Cruising solo can also be a time for self-reflection and relaxation. You can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the open sea, read, write, or simply unwind without distractions.

Ultimately, the experience of going on a cruise as a solo traveller can vary depending on your personality, preferences, and the specific cruise line you choose.  If you are someone who loves to spend time alone or someone who makes contact with others without any problems, you’ll be just fine.

So, just pack your sexiest summer clothing, a sense of wonder, and maybe some tablets for the prevention and treatment of seasickness.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with a sunset and a Margarita (hopefully ordered correctly this time). Bon voyage!

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