Table of Contents
Introduction
Why solo travelers are ideally suited to river cruising: For these reasons, river cruising is quickly becoming a favorite among solo travelers in search of a unique, immersive and relaxing travel experience.
River cruises in contrast to ocean ones go deep inside regions, from the historical cities of Europe to the exotic landscapes of Asia and Africa.
Solo river cruising allows solo travelers to immerse in new destinations without worrying about the logistics, streamlined through thoughtfully curated amenities, customizable itineraries and a dedication to blending in with local culture.
In this blog, we will show you what you can expect in a solo river cruise and the number one must-see spots for every single traveler on water.
Why solo travellers are ideally suited to river cruising
Why solo travellers are ideally suited to river cruising: Solo travelers will appreciate the unique intimacy, community and comfort of river cruises.
River cruises carry smaller numbers of passengers than traditional ocean-going cruise lines allowing for a more intimate environment and higher chances for meeting fellow solo travelers, participating in on-shore group activities without having to fend off being isolationists while at sea.
Most river cruises today either have port-to-port single-occupancy cabins, or they are waiving the single supplements so that those who live alone can get in on this travel style.
On top of that, river cruise itineraries are all about scenic and cultural immersion, with ships docking directly in the heart of cities for easy access to destinations without the burden of multiple transportation changes.
What to Look for on a Solo River Cruise
Why solo travellers are ideally suited to river cruising: The size of the ship is smaller and allows for more personalized service. River cruise ships tend to be smaller than ocean liners, carrying 100-200 passengers.
Also, a smaller ship means more personalized service the crew learns your name and your preferences quickly, which can be comforting to solo travelers.
It also means the ship can dock straight into town centres, making it easy for solo travellers to get off and explore.
A Relaxed and Scenic Pace
River cruises are slower than other types of travel, which is really perfect for solo travelers who want to slow down and take in the view.
When the ship goes along rivers, beautiful scenery will be waiting for you in your stateroom, on deck or dining area.
From the rolling vineyards on the Rhine to ancient temples on the Nile, a moving panorama provides a soothing sense of place.
Activities
River cruise itineraries are hyper-local, consisting of onboard lectures (and the occasional wine tasting) as well as guided shore excursions and cultural performances.
The activities offer some guided time for solo travelers to interact with the other passengers and have like, a real conversation.
This level of planned social interaction blended with alone time is what many solo travelers enjoy.
Dining and lodging included all-inclusive
River cruises are typically all-inclusive including rooms, meals and sometimes guided excursions.
This means individuals traveling alone can let out the sigh of relief without having to calculate on a budget how much they need to eat at each meal or do an activity.
These communal areas often allow passengers to meet and socialise when onboard, as well as sampling both local and international dishes.
Find Touriste and/or do it on your own
The opportunity to experience different shore excursions at each port is one of the best experiences of traveling by river cruise.
These guided tours are perfect for solo adventurers looking to sightsee in safety, gaining valuable insights into their travel destinations.
Most cruises will also provide time for independent exploration with the comfort of knowing that there is a scheduled return to the ship which many solo travelers would prefer as they can explore their interests more freely.
Top Places for Solo River Cruising
1. The Danube River, Europe
Why solo travellers are ideally suited to river cruising: The Danube is one of the most famous rivers in Europe it starts in Germany and runs all the way to the Black Sea, passing through countries such as Austria, Hungary, and Romania.
For a solo traveler, a cruise on the Danube river is both an historically-immersive experience in European history and culture, as well as diverse landscapes.
Stops in Vienna, where you can soak in the history of classical music, and Budapest, known for its beautiful architecture and thermal baths are among the highlights.
Must-See: Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna; Parliament Building in Budapest; old town of Bratislava
2. The Rhine River: Germany, France and Switzerland
From the Netherlands to Switzerland, the Rhine River leads travelers through some of Europe’s most scenic and historic places.
It is an ideal route for solo travelers, those who are interested to know more about fairy-tale castles, vineyards and medieval towns. Stops frequently include Cologne, site of a Gothic cathedral; and Strasbourg, where French and German cultures meet.
Must-Dos: Cologne Cathedral, Petite France in Strasbourg, wine tastings in Rüdesheim
3. The Nile River, Egypt
If you’re in search of a pinch of exotic adventure as a solo traveler, the Nile River cruise is an experience you must do once in your lifetime.
It is a journey (whether boat or land) through the ancient history of Egypt on one of the most famous rivers in the world, The Nile.
The atmosphere on board is often lively, with plenty of opportunities to mingle with fellow travelers during meals and excursions.
Must-Sees: Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Philae Temple in Aswan, Egyptian Museum (in Cairo)
4. Vietnam and Cambodia, The Mekong River
Travelers journey along the Mekong River, through the verdant expanse of Southeast Asia, pausing to explore vibrant markets, traditional villages and cultural landmarks.
Ideal for solo travelers attracted to charitable local culture and culinary, this river cruise delivers. Itineraries often cover the floating markets of Vietnam and Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Highlight Experiences: Floating markets, Vietnam | Angkor Wat, Cambodia | Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace
5. The Douro River, Portugal
Traveling along the Douro River in Portugal is a beautiful option for solo travelers looking for something leisurely and scenic.
Renowned for the wine regions, douro valley is beautiful with bountiful terraced vineyards and stunning views of local Portuguese villages.
Along the way, solo-travelers can stop for local wine tastings, visit historic wine cellars and explore UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Must-see sites: Porto’s famous wine cellars, the terraced landscapes of the Douro Valley and Lamego — a charming town with great shopping
6. The Yangtze River, China
An ideal fusion of mother nature and historical legacy, a cruise on the Yangtze River is an outstanding traveling experience for solo adventurers.
Meandering along the river reveals spectacular canyons, fertile countryside and lively cities.
Experience includes the iconic Three Gorges Dam, panda and ancient temple excursions Packaged excursions and onboard activities make it a great option for solo travelers seeking a holistic cultural experience.
If you are wondering what the best experiences are, they include visiting The Three Gorges, Fengdu Ghost City and Shibaozhai Temple.
7. The Seine River, France
Seine River cruise: An elegant choice for solo travelers interested in art, history and French culture.
With a starting point of Paris, the cruise continues through breathtaking Normandy scenery and usually has stops at places such as Monet’s Gardens in Giverny and the historic beaches in Normandy A sophisticated solo journey blending iconic sights with picturesque villages, this cruise ticks all the boxes.
Must-Do: See iconic Paris sights like the Eiffel Tower; stroll through Monet’s Gardens; visit the D-Day beaches of Normandy
River Cruise Solo Traveler Tips
Select a Cruise That Offers Cabins for One: A number of river cruise lines have introduced cabins that only require one-person occupancy, or will very often at least waive the dreaded single supplement (a travel industry fee charged to solo travellers). Be on the lookout for cruises that offer this, as it is such an important aspect of cost and comfort.
Engage in Onboard Activities: Activities onboard are there to create a community wine tastings, lectures on the cultures local to your port and performances. These activities create an amazing chance for solo travellers to meet others and connect.
Go on Group Excursions but Wander Off Alone: Group excursions are great opportunities to learn more and meet other fellow travelers, but solo travelers can also take some time to explore around by their own. Unlike the frenetic pace of many ocean cruises, river cruise itineraries often allot free time in port cities for guests to roam about at their own pace.
Be Open to Mingling: One of the pleasures of river cruising is the bond that forms between travelers. Talk to people in the communal dining room or on excursions; it is a great place to meet and see familiar faces.
Take your time: River cruising is about the experience as much as where you end up. Relax on deck, watch the countryside roll by and appreciate a different aspect of river travel.
Final Thoughts: Why solo travelers are ideally suited to river cruising
Why solo travelers are ideally suited to river cruising: Solo river cruising is one of the most intriguing methods for viewing our world; its rivers and towns/cities itself run, right down the list.
From Europe’s ancient rivers to Asia’s cultural heartlands and Africa’s primeval landscapes, these rivers offer a unique combination of experiences designed for the solo traveller.
For solo travelers, the safety and structure of a river cruise program, along with ample opportunities to mingle with fellow passengers means this style of travel is ideal.
With additional cruise lines focusing on single travellers, the solo river cruising choices keep growing as well indeed, there has never ever been a better time to take part in these fantastic experiences.
Solo river cruising means enjoying some of the most surprising and beautiful landmarks this planet has to offer from fairy-tale castles along the Rhine to grand temples on the Nile all while surrounding yourself with gentle comfort, relaxed luxury, and an atmosphere of togetherness.
At both ends of your day. Therefore grab your bags, set your route, and let the rivers of the world call you to a solo journey never to be forgotten.
