Traveling Solo on a Disney Cruise
Have you ever thought about taking a solo cruise vacation? Doing what you want, when you want, leaving friends and family behind - just you, only you…
I did just that! I decided very last minute that I want to take a solo Disney Cruise Line cruise, so I booked a 4-Night Bahamian Cruise in a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah, April 18-22, 2022 aboard the Disney Dream. Having always sailed with family and/or friends, I had a few doubts about sailing by myself for the first time. Now, I will say, I am a seasoned DCL cruiser and I know my way around the Disney ships, especially the Dream, so I wasn’t in totally unfamiliar territory.
Driving to Port Canaveral, it’s still just as exciting each and every time. About 10-15 minutes away from the port, you get to see the Disney ship in all her glory as you cross over the last several large and tall bridges. The view doesn’t last long, but those of you that have been, IYKYK!
I arrived at the port a little after 2PM that afternoon of the 18th, giving me the opportunity to breeze right through the processes of dropping my bag off, testing and security. With my boarding group already called, I walked right onto the ship with no waiting. In general, staterooms are available after 2PM and having boarded after 2:30PM I headed straight for mine. I dropped off my carry-on luggage, unpacked (since my luggage had already been delivered) and headed up to Deck 10 for a little late lunch. Afterwords I completed the mandatory muster drill and made my way back up to deck 12 to soak up the warm sunshine and take in the views.
I proceeded to stake out my spot for the return of the “Sail Away Party”. It was so awesome to have this back! This short deck party/show really does help kick off your cruise and vacation. The whole Disney cast of characters sang, danced and counted down to the playing of the Disney Dream horns - making it official, we were finally on vacation!
Once the party was over - I made my way back down to the stateroom for a little breather. I ordered a little light snack from Room Service, watched a few Mickey cartoons and made my way out to the verandah for some quiet time. Heavenly!
I decided early on I didn’t want to eat in the Main Dining Rooms - simply because I didn’t want that much food this trip (1st world problems, I know!). I ate a large portion of my meals by room service or from Deck 10 while watching a bit of Funnel Vision each time.
I was able to sleep in, eat when I wanted, head to bed as early or as late as I wanted, watch what I wanted, experience different locations on the ship when I wanted, the list goes on. I managed to score 2 adults only beverage tastings (Martini and a Chocolate and Liquor - both amazing), a Palo Dinner and Brunch (always excellent), watched 2 movies in the Disney theaters; Encanto and Big Red - and a couple of movies on Funnel Vision.
Now, I know what you are really asking yourself, would I do it again and would I recommend it? I would definitely do it again for a 3 night cruise and I would totally recommend it if you want some alone time. I’m not sure I personally would sail alone if this is one of your first sailings - unless you are quite comfortable just hanging out by yourself. I never felt out of place sailing alone, but I also knew what to expect from DCL. Everyone has their own comfort level and mine was exhausted on the evening of day 3. By day 4 I felt I was missing out not having someone share in experiences, if that makes sense. Do not mistake that for a bad time - I had an awesome time and loved every second of it, but it was a very different experience from what I’m used to. As for cost, Disney Cruise Line does not have a single-occupancy fare. It’s the same cost as if you were sailing with two people (minus taxes and port fees for the 2nd person).
It’s really all about YOUR comfort level and what you want out of a vacation - either way, alone or with family or friends, you are almost guaranteed to have a wonderful time sailing on Disney Cruise Line.
Questions? I can be reached at: brandon@dreamvisiontravel.com
Brandon - May ‘22
