Testing the Waters: My First Solo Cruise
When Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Luna, launched during its inaugural season and NCL's Diamond Anniversary celebrating 60 years of cruising, I saw the perfect opportunity to try something I had never done before: solo cruising.
This voyage had two objectives. First, I wanted to experience cruising from the perspective of a solo female traveler. Second, with retirement on the horizon (again!), I wanted to determine whether longer voyages—or even back-to-back cruises—might be a lifestyle I would enjoy in the future.
NCL Luna’s Glowing Moon
When the golden hour meets NCL Luna’s Glowing Moon magic!
Choosing a Solo Studio Cabin on Norwegian Luna
One of Luna's most exciting features is the addition of dedicated solo balcony cabins. Unfortunately, with only a handful available, they sold out quickly. As someone who typically books a balcony stateroom to enjoy sunrises, sunsets, and photography opportunities, I was hesitant about choosing an inside cabin.
Still, I was intrigued by Norwegian Cruise Line's commitment to solo travelers, particularly the exclusive Studio Lounge, so I booked a Studio cabin within the ship's solo traveler section.
One of the first things I noticed was the added security. Guests must pass through a separate keycard-access entrance before reaching the Studio cabin corridor. As a solo female traveler, I found this feature both comforting and reassuring.
Another unexpected comfort was the crew. With many crew members from Southeast Asia—particularly the Philippines and Indonesia—I felt an immediate sense of familiarity. Having grown up in Malaysia, their warmth, hospitality, and friendly smiles provided a welcome reminder of home.
What It's Really Like Staying in a Norwegian Luna Studio Cabin
When I first stepped into my Studio cabin, my reaction was, "Wow, this is small."
For a brief moment, I felt a little claustrophobic. However, that feeling quickly disappeared. The cabin had an almost cocoon-like effect—cozy, efficient, and surprisingly comfortable. Everything was thoughtfully designed, with storage, lighting controls, and amenities within easy reach. For a solo traveler, the layout was practical and well-planned.
The only thing I found missing was a mini refrigerator.
Why the Studio Lounge Is Perfect for Solo Cruisers
Fortunately, the Studio Lounge more than compensated. Reserved exclusively for solo travelers, it featured a premium coffee machine similar to those found in Delta Sky Clubs, along with continental breakfast items, cookies, and snacks available throughout the day.
One of my favorite routines became strolling down to the lounge in my pajamas, making a cappuccino, grabbing a chocolate croissant, and returning to my cabin to enjoy breakfast in bed. There was something wonderfully liberating about taking my time and deciding later how I wanted to spend the day.
The Benefits of Solo Cruising
That sense of freedom became one of the greatest surprises of solo travel.
Making last-minute reservations for dining, entertainment, and shore excursions was effortless. Accommodating one person was rarely a challenge, and I could do exactly what I wanted, when I wanted, without coordinating schedules or compromising on plans.
I initially wondered whether I would feel lonely on a solo cruise. Instead, I discovered the opposite. The Studio Lounge made it easy to meet fellow solo travelers when I wanted company while still allowing me to enjoy solitude whenever I chose.
Is Solo Cruising Right for Retirement?
By the end of the voyage, I realized I wasn't simply evaluating a new cruise ship—I was evaluating a future lifestyle.
Norwegian Luna showed me that solo cruising isn't about being alone. It's about independence, flexibility, and discovering how enjoyable your own company can be. Based on this experience, long-term cruising in retirement feels far less like a dream and much more like a realistic plan.
Share Your Solo Cruise Experience
Have you tried solo cruising? What did you enjoy most, and what challenges did you encounter? Whether you're a seasoned solo cruiser or considering your first solo cruise vacation, I'd love to hear your story. Share your experience in the comments—your insights may inspire another traveler to take the leap and embark on their own solo adventure at sea.
