Despite the increase in brand new, modern-day cruise ships, many people are still under the impression that cruises are boring and only for the old or the wealthy. There are also many people that still believe the ships operate different class systems, similar to those found on the Titanic and other pre-21st century ships. This couldn’t be further from the truth as a cruise holiday is actually a fantastic way to meet new people who you can share new experiences with. One thing nearly all passengers share on a ship is a love of cruising, and there is nothing people that cruise love to talk about more than cruising itself!
Cruise holidays are a great way to swap stories of your favourite ships or ports of call, and you are sure to pick up a few extra pieces of advice, especially when talking with experienced cruisers. There will always be a few people who are perhaps a little shy but generally if you are getting involved with the on board activities during the day, or having drinks in one of the bars, people are friendly and will just start talking to you.
Cruising is particularly popular with single travellers for the reason that they know they can find like-minded people to talk to whilst they are away. In the past cruise ships didn’t have facilities that catered for single travellers but this is something that is becoming increasingly common. New ships like Norwegian Cruise Lines Epic for example, have studio cabins built specifically for solo passengers, with the Studio Lounge at the hub, giving the passengers the chance to mingle and meet each other.
Evening dining is perhaps one of the most sociable events of all and gives you the greatest opportunity to make new friends. In most cases on your first night, you will be sat with other people who are complete strangers, unless you have opted for an open dining choice or a less sociable table for 2. Before you know it, you all know each other by name and have probably swapped a few holiday tales too.
It’s not only adults who find cruise holidays are very sociable; children do too. There aren’t many children that won’t join in with all the activities that are provided by the on board youth staff in the kids’ clubs, so they also find that it is a really good way to make new friends. It is often easier for children as well because the clubs are split up in to various different age groups, so they will find themselves meeting children of the same or similar age. Some of the activities like sports tournaments, talent shows and games competitions involve teamwork too which creates even more chances for them to get to know each other. Image by happyskrappy
I have to agree cruising is not boring. I have done it twice and albeit you do not really see a lot of sceneries, except for the open seas, you will get to meet new people. It is an advantage that you are in a cruise ship because you will have the chance to meet and know others very well depending on the number of days the cruise will take.