Would you share?

I booked a cruise for a lovely lady this week, she is a single traveller but hates to pay the single supplement charged by the cruise lines.

I must admit the single supplement is extremely high for solo travellers, sometimes on the cheaper fares it can be double. For example P&O & Cunard have saver fares if you are booking at short notice but if you are a single passenger then this single supplement is 100%.

Some cruise lines have single cabins but still charge a hefty price for them even though they only sleep 1 person – I will never understand this.

Average single supplement is between 50%-80% unless there are offers of ‘no single supplement’ which doesn’t happen very often and is usually out of season.

So my client has been on various cruises and has met other single travellers and become friends with them, she prefers to have her own cabin but not at the expense of 100% single supplements so what’s the answer??

Share a cabin with another solo traveller so you both get the best price!

This is exactly what my client does, she knows which cruises she wants to travel on then emails her list of single cruisers to see who may want to go on it and if they will share the cabin with her – I think this is a great way to save money and get to experience the ship or itinerary you wish to see.

From my previous role in a Travel Agency I know coach companies used to offer this service for same sex passengers to share a room to keep the cost down.

Do you think cruise lines should offer this service?  I would love to hear your views on this.

Personally I think it would work for some but not for everyone, here are a few pros & cons:-

1. A person may snore loudly so needs their own cabin.
2. You maybe shy & not want to share with a stranger or someone you don’t know very well.
3. Maybe you won’t get on with the person you share with.

but…

4. Saves money on single supplements.
5. Only really sleep & shower/dress in your cabin.
6. Can afford to go on more cruises.

So what are your views?

I would definitely do this if I was single as could make some friends for life then share cabins on future cruises but then again could end up with someone awful who ruins your holiday…  that would be the worst thing that could happen but who knows!!

You never know if you don’t try.

Cruising for singles is a great way to meet new people especially over dinner – these could be your new ‘roomies’ on your next cruise – think of the money you’ll save on that single supplement……….. go for it!

My hat goes off to my client for smart thinking and I’m sure there are many people out there that do this or have considered it.

So if you want to check prices whether single or not – call me on 0800 408 6108 or email me at [email protected] and I will be happy to assist you.