In celebration of Independence Day, Lindblad Expeditions asked one of their guests, Renie Craft of Virginia Beach, VA to share a few thoughts on traveling solo aboard the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet. Read on and then assert your own independence on an unforgettable small-ship adventure this year.
After I retired, I wanted to chase my dream of traveling the world, but my availability and interests didn’t always match up with my friends or family. I had traveled alone for business but never for pleasure and I had the usual trepidations. Would I have to eat meals alone? Would I be able to make friends easily? Would it be as much fun as sharing the experience with someone else? Questions like these all crossed my mind.
When I learned about the small-ship voyages offered by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, it sounded like the ideal way to travel to places out of my comfort zone, while still feeling safe. My first trip was a 28-day Atlantic Ocean crossing from Lisbon to Punta Arenas on National Geographic Orion. Not long after embarking, I discovered all my worries were unfounded.
To my delight, there were several other solo travelers and we soon formed a group, dining together, attending lectures, and enjoying drinks in the lounge. Some of them even started a knitting club to make hats for the crew who would be spending the next few months in Antarctica. We sailed over Halloween and I’ll never forget what an incredible celebration the staff and crew created for us, right down to the pumpkin carvings and costume contest.
Because of that fantastic experience, I booked my next trip to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands, bucket-list destinations that exceeded my expectations. Since then, I’ve taken four more voyages and have two more on the books, including a trip to Croatia that will take me back on National Geographic Orion where I look forward to reuniting with fellow travelers and the wonderfully hospitable staff and crew.
If you’re hesitant to take that solo plunge, trust me when I say you aren’t going to be solo for long. I’ve developed long-lasting relationships with some of the people I’ve met on board and now we often travel together. With so many elements that make it easy to mingle, from the intimate size of the group to the open seating policy in the dining room, you’re guaranteed to feel welcomed every step of the way. And like me, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start traveling solo much sooner.
Maybe I’ll meet you on board in the future!
Renie Craft
Traveling Solo on an Expedition Cruise
With over 100 one-of-a-kind itineraries across all seven continents, Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic makes it easy, and unforgettable, for solo travelers to see the world. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic Galápagos, the wilds of Alaska, or Antarctica’s frozen frontier, every expedition offers a welcoming, enriching experience tailored for independent adventurers.
Nervous about going it alone? Start with a destination closer to home to ease into the rhythm of solo travel. Or follow your curiosity wherever it leads, our expert team ensures a smooth journey from start to finish.
From helping you book the most direct flights to greeting you upon arrival, we handle the details so you can focus on discovery. And for those craving even more, select itineraries offer pre- or post-voyage extensions, guided small-group adventures to hidden gems that are hard to access on your own.
Where will your solo adventure take you? With Lindblad, the possibilities are endless, and you’ll never feel like you’re going it alone.
Contact Sunstone Tours & Cruises at 1-888-815-5428 to talk to a cruise specialist about planning a solo expedition of a lifetime.
