Why did the animals get on the ark – two by two?  Because it was cheaper than going solo!  That’s what some would say!    On a cruise two are much better to sell space to than one unless the individual is willing to pay the high surcharge for single cruising!  And let’s face it – there’s more fun in a crowd, than being a loner – unless you are trying to write a book!  Facing the fact that solo travel is usually more costly than going as a double or couple doesn’t seem to make much sense.  You could argue that one mouth to feed is cheaper than two.  Or at least that’s the case in households!  Cruise lines don’t see costs that way.  Just as much time and employees are needed to supply all those delightful amenities you enjoy while cruising, for one or a thousand.  Since someone has to plan the meals, cook, serve, and clean up – why not add a few more servings to the mix and feed a multitude! 

A ship’s motto – “Space makes waste.”  Where there is unfilled space, there are dollar bills missing.  Your spending is what keeps a ship afloat!  Before going much further there are a few terms to clarify.  Single:  means single – not married, engaged, or otherwise spoken for!  Solo:  a single or married traveler who is cruising by his/herself.  Double:  two as a couple, companions, or significant others sharing the cost and amenities of the cruise.  There are several different cruise lines which offer “single” rooms or “solo” rooms.  These rooms are usually more expensive.  Singles and solo travelers most likely will be charged a surplus up to 200% of the doubles or couple’s per-person cost for a cruise.  There is one company online which attempts to help sort out cruises where there is not an extra charge for the individual traveler.

For a cruise to be “friendly to singles” there shouldn’t be any extra charges.  The single would pay for the cruise the same as a couple would pay the per-person rate, otherwise the single pays a surcharge decided upon at time of booking.  Those traveling alone may want to opt for a “guaranteed share” where the cruise line or your booking agent may attempt to find a roommate for you.  Then each individual would pay the regular per-person rate without additional penalties.  Should a roommate fail to materialize, the single traveler would not be charged any additional surcharges, and                                                                                 again would pay the per-person rate same as                                                                                 couples or doubles.

In this 21st century, the generations of ages coming up behind the baby boomers are seeking more international travel flare with the intent to experience the sights and sounds of the world.   Although partying and romance are big issues on cruises, these world travelers place pursuit of experiencing their travels above the possible romance on the high seas!  If romance happens between singles, then that is a bonus as long as they get to see places like the Greek Islands, China, Bahamas, Turkey, Italy, Rome, England, Scandinavia, Germany, Russia, just to name a few and many variety of cruises can be found to help you celebrate the seasons, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, or just about anything you want to celebrate.

Check out some of these websites to assist you in finding the right cruise just for you.  Whether you are Jewish or Christian, gay or straight, single or solo, there is a cruise itinerary with your name on it – you just have to pursue your dream and go after it!  www.cruisemates.com, www.allchristiancruises.com, www.cruisecompete.com (featuring senior singles cruise itineraries), www.smallshipcruises.com .   Double, single, or solo – with so many available offers on cruises and a myriad of activities designed to tantalize your five senses, book that cruise now!  Happy Traveling