I was made for cruising! My love for the sea, combined with a passion for good food and a thirst for adventure, has shaped many of my life’s journeys.
For me, cruising offers a unique way to experience the world. It’s a seamless journey where every day brings a new adventure and culinary delight. Whether it’s dining alfresco, enjoying the sea breeze, exploring cool coastal towns, or simply relaxing on deck with a good book, cruising captures the essence of what I love most: the ocean, exquisite food, and the thrill of discovery.
Embarking on a solo adventure aboard the NCL Prima was an experience filled with a mix of anticipation and curiosity. I made my reservations after reading and watching ship reviews. The Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) reputation for accommodating solo travelers made the difference in setting sail on this journey.
The Solo Veranda Suite: A Perfect Retreat
From the moment I stepped into my solo veranda suite, I knew I had made the right choice. The suite was designed with solo travelers in mind, offering a cozy yet spacious retreat that allowed me to relax in privacy. The veranda was my favorite feature; I spent countless hours there, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and ocean views. The suite was well-appointed, with all the amenities I needed to feel at home, including a comfortable bed, ample storage, and a well-designed bathroom.
Love-Hate Relationship with the Ship's Layout
Navigating the NCL Prima, however, was a bit of a challenge at first. The ship's modern and sleek layout had me going in circles on more than one occasion. The main dining areas and specialty restaurants were spread out, and I often found myself wandering through decks, trying to find my way. It took a few days to get the hang of it, but it became part of the adventure once I did.
Despite the initial confusion, I came to appreciate the unique design of the ship. The various lounges, bars, and entertainment venues were thoughtfully placed, ensuring there was always something interesting to discover around every corner. The ship also had a well-equipped fitness center, a spa for relaxation, and a library for quiet reading. The other benefit of the design was the many nooks where you can quietly sit and people-watch, enjoy a drink or read a good book. I especially enjoyed the solo lounge with access to snacks, fresh coffee, beer and wine, and fruit – oh, yes, and comfortable chairs and couches to read and relax!
Dining Experiences: A Mixed Bag
Dining on the NCL Prima was a mixed experience. The main dining room, with its elegant decor, offered a variety of delicious dishes. Still, I felt overlooked by the wait staff. It was disappointing to be ignored, especially when dining alone. I had hoped for more engagement and conversation, which I did experience in the specialty dining restaurants. The buffet was also a good option for a quick and casual meal, with a wide selection of dishes to choose from.
My experience at the specialty French restaurant, Le Bistro, was also less than ideal. The host attempted to seat me near the kitchen, which felt isolating and dismissive. However, once I requested a different table in a more favorable location, the dining experience improved significantly. The food was exquisite, and the ambiance was delightful.
Onda by Scarpetta, the Italian specialty restaurant, and the Sushi restaurant Nama were the standouts for me. The food was delicious, and the wait staff was fantastic. Another very cool experience was at Indulge Food Bar. In this large area, you can order many different types of food from various restaurants at no additional cost. You order your food digitally via an iPad, and it's delivered to your table to enjoy. Most of my snacks and light lunches were consumed here.
Excellent Service and Friendly Faces
Beyond these minor hiccups, the overall service on the NCL Prima was exceptional. The crew members were friendly and attentive, always ready with a smile and a helpful hand. From the housekeeping staff who kept my suite spotless to the bartenders at my most frequented bars who quickly learned my favorite drinks, I felt genuinely cared for throughout the cruise. The staff also went above and beyond to accommodate special requests and ensure that all guests felt comfortable and well cared for.
One of the highlights of my trip was meeting fellow solo travelers. NCL organizes meetups and social events for solo cruisers, which provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with others. These gatherings were filled with lively conversations and shared stories, making me feel part of a community rather than a lone traveler.
Excursions: Immersing in Nature and History
The excursions offered by NCL added an extra layer of excitement and adventure to my cruise experience. A visit to Belize allowed me to immerse myself in the lush tropical forest, where I marveled at the rich biodiversity and vibrant greenery. The guided tour through the forest was educational and invigorating, offering a refreshing escape from the ship. Another unforgettable excursion was to Tulum, where I explored the ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The historical significance of Tulum, combined with the breathtaking views, made this excursion a truly enriching experience.
Activities and Entertainment: Something for Everyone
The NCL Prima offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options to suit all interests. I enjoyed the daily fitness classes, which kept me active and energized. The trivia challenges were my favorites. This is where I met other solo travelers and even joined forces at times to come up with the winning answers! They also offered many craft get-togethers. I learned origami and made a couple of bracelets I still wear today. For those who enjoy more leisurely activities, there are movie nights, live music performances and even a casino for those feeling lucky.
The evening entertainment was a standout feature of the cruise. From Broadway-style shows to live music performances, there was always something to look forward to. The Prima Theater's design allowed for great views, making each show a memorable experience. The shows were of high quality, with talented performers and impressive production values. There were also smaller performances in the lounges and bars, offering a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
For those seeking more thrills, the ship has a speedway on the top deck where you can race go-karts and a couple of slides to test your daredevil proclivities! The Prima also boasts a mini-golf course and a full arcade, including state-of-the-art virtual games.
Final Thoughts
My solo journey on the NCL Prima was a great experience. Despite the initial challenges with the ship's layout and a few dining mishaps, the overall cruise was excellent. The solo veranda suite provided a comfortable and private haven, and the service was top-notch. The range of activities and entertainment ensured there was never a dull moment.
For any senior woman considering a solo cruise, the NCL Prima is a fantastic option. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and social opportunities, making it an ideal choice for solo travelers seeking a memorable and fulfilling experience on the high seas. I enjoyed my experience so much that I booked another cruise in December!
Have you already acquired your sea legs? I would love to hear where your go-to cruise adventure(s) have taken you?
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