Sailing Solo
Embarking on a solo adventure at sea can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Virgin Voyages, with its laid-back atmosphere and friendly vibe, is an excellent choice for those opting to sail unaccompanied.
Embarking as a solo-at-sea can be an incredibly rewarding but also daunting experience. Virgin Voyages, with its laid-back atmosphere and friendly vibe, is an excellent choice for those opting to sail unaccompanied. This guide is designed to help you make the most of your solo journey on the open waves with Virgin Voyages.
What is Virgin Voyages Like for Solo Travellers?
For solo sailors, the cruise line’s atmosphere is important. Virgin Voyages is known for its friendly and welcoming environment that promotes self-discovery and socializing. Whether you’re a first-time solo cruiser or an experienced sailor, Virgin Voyages has an atmosphere where you can choose to be as social or independent as you like.
Accommodations for the Solo Traveler
- Solo Cabins: Designed specifically for the solo traveler, Virgin Voyages offer both ’Solo Sea View’ cabins and ‘Solo Insider‘ rooms that cater to your privacy and comfort without compromising on the luxury experience. Keep in mind that solo cabins are very limited with only 6 Sea Views and 40 Insiders so book fast as they do sell out!
- Room for One or More: If you’re looking for more space, you can opt for cabins intended for two or more passengers. Keep in mind that this option typically comes with a single-supplement fee, which can make it a pricier choice however you will only pay half the taxes. Look out for solo supplement offers from Virgin Voyages as they often sell cabins at a reduced rate.
Connecting with Fellow Sailors
Join Groups Before Setting Sail
By joining a Facebook Group linked to your sailing, you can meet fellow travelers in advance. These groups are listed on our website, and if one doesn’t exist yet for your sailing, consider creating one yourself and start the conversation off!
Solo Events And More
Virgin Voyages curates events with the solo cruiser in mind:
Solo Sailor Gatherings:
These events are perfect for meeting other individual travelers and making connections that enhance your voyage. There will typically be a sail away meet up event on the first night at 5:00pm at The Athletic Club.
Virgin Voyages will then arrange dinners and additional meetups (view example line-ups here) throughout the voyage hosted by the Happenings Cast.
Solo Dining:
It is best where possible to make dining reservations and you can always cancel if need be, most restaurants will seat you at a two seat table. However in addition to making solo reservations, a Happenings Crew member will arrange group tables for six at each restaurant during the meetups. Just let them know where you’d like to dine, and they’ll give you a ticket for seating. Sharing a meal with new friends is a fun way to connect and get to know each other better.
Recommended Social Activities:
- Grog Walk: A ship-wide bar crawl, normally held on the first night of the voyage, is a great way to make new friends on board. The Happenings Cast will take the lead and set sailors off on ice-breaker activities.
- Gunbae: Sailors will always be seated with others at this restaurant, it’s a great way to meet new people as multiple groups will be sat together up to 8 people.
- Trivia and Puzzles: There are many trivia events on board including Salty Trivia, Risky Quizness & a Speed Puzzle event. Smaller groups of sailors will always be looking for one more person to help them beat other teams so go along and take part.
- Physical Games and Activities: Normally held in the Sports Court – The Happenings Cast host a number of physical and fun events that require participation and teamwork. Activities include Dodgeball, Game On (a series of quick-fire team games like shooting hoops and corn hole) and more.
The Heart of the Ship’s Social Scene
The Happenings Cast: On Board Entertainment Team
Forget the traditional Cruise Director; Virgin Voyages introduces the Happenings Cast. A dynamic group of entertainers who are the lifeblood of the ship’s social scene. Getting to know them can be your gateway to an array of activities where other solo sailors will join.
In Summary
Sailing solo doesn’t mean sailing alone, especially with the solo-friendly cabins, social groups, and tailored events. You’ll find that your solo journey can be as interactive and engaging as you desire. With the Happenings Cast leading the charge and a ship full of potential new friends. Set sail on your own terms, and discover the vibrant solo cruiser community that awaits you aboard Virgin Voyages.
