What Extras Are Worth Paying for as A Solo Cruiser?

Cruises aren’t necessarily “all-inclusive” if you want more than the basic package. So, what’s worth paying extra for and what’s not when you’re cruising solo? I’ve got my opinions, and I’m ready to share them with you.

I’ve only cruised with Royal Caribbean, so this post is based on my experience with that cruise line.

Extras That Are Worth the Money

Let’s start with the things I think are worth shelling out a little bit more money for as a solo cruiser, especially as a solo cruiser who is planning on doing some remote work while at sea.

Wi-Fi

If you’re going to be working, this is a non-negotiable. Even if you aren’t, then I still think it could be worth it if you think you will end up spending some time streaming in your cabin. I’m an introvert, so I need a healthy amount of time away from strangers every day. Even if I wasn’t working, I’d still want to have Wi-Fi so I could catch up on Survivor in between dinner and the late show.

Shore Excursions

I just don’t love the idea of going out and exploring a new city without at least some guidance. I also have the navigation skills of a drunk raccoon and have absolutely gotten lost even when I was with a group. I shudder to think that I might still be in Ensenada if my tour guide hadn’t known to come looking for me when I was two blocks away from our meeting point (that he absolutely told us about. It was entirely my fault. And maybe the fault of the margarita and two glasses of wine I had as part of the tour …)

Thermal Suite

I love me a good thermal suite when I’m solo. Honestly, the days are super long when you are by yourself, even if you work in the morning. The thermal suite gives me a place to relax and unwind without feeling stuck in my cabin or surrounded by people. I love heading there after lunch for a good post-work, post-meal nap.

Refreshment Package

I prefer the Refreshment package, which is the one that includes everything but alcohol. I bring a bottle of wine on board with me, and I buy another mid-week one for around $35. That is enough to get me through the week, aside from one toasted marshmallow old fashioned from the Schooner Bar (an absolute MUST for me). The refreshment package includes specialty coffees, bottles of water, milkshakes (if there is a Johnny Rockets) and all the mocktails you could ever dream of. Tip: Try a virgin lime and coconut at the pool bar.

If none of those sound appealing, save your money! Royal Caribbean cruises automatically include lemonade, basic juices, iced tea, coffee, and tap water.

Extras You Can Ignore

Here are all the things I ignore when I’m flying solo on my remote work getaway.

Specialty Dining

There are so many food options already included in the cruise, and you don’t have to feel stuck between the Main Dining Room and the Windjammer. When I’m on a work trip, I end up eating lunch at the Cafe or Central Park instead of the Main Dining Room or Windjammer because it’s super easy to get a grab-and-go sandwich or salad.

Photos

If you’ve gone on a cruise, you know there are professional photographers everywhere. But you don’t have to get your picture taken. Just say “no thanks!” and walk on by.

Upgraded Room

This one comes down to personal preference, but I have found that I’m the most productive in a windowless room. So, I book interior cabins when I’m on my own. In addition to having fewer distractions, these rooms also tend to be cooler and are THE BEST for post-lunch/pre-dinner naps.

Want to see more of my solo cruising adventures? Make sure to follow on Instagram @thesea.suite.