Should I climb or skip it?

That was my dilemma as the National Geographic Explorer was anchored near Borgarfjörðurhöfn, a secluded region in eastern Iceland famed for its puffin sanctuary. This stop was part of my ten-day expedition cruise with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, circling Iceland in August.

That day, I had two choices for my excursion: a four-mile coastal hike or a nearly six-mile trek to the top.

When I gazed out from my cabin, I saw gusty winds and rain, so I weighed the unpleasant weather against the fact that the previous days were filled with challenging hikes. I opted for the shorter hike.

After my exploration, I returned to the 112-meter ship and enjoyed a comforting cup of hot cocoa for the remainder of the afternoon. I didn’t stress about dinner plans since the ship provided meals at 7 p.m.

Traveling solo on this expedition cruise meant I could make decisions solely for myself. I could rest whenever I wished or challenge myself as I felt inclined. No need to match someone else’s pace.

I’m not alone in loving to travel solo. According to the American Express Travel 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, almost one-third of the 8,029 survey participants plan to take at least one solo trip this year. Solo travel fosters self-discovery and grants total freedom and flexibility in planning.

For those choosing to travel solo, expedition cruises seamlessly blend structure with adventure. The report mentions a rise in expedition cruising, which allows travelers to dive into new places and cultures—perfect for those venturing out alone.

Here are compelling reasons for solo travelers to think about an expedition cruise.

The environment, both natural and aboard

Initially, I felt apprehensive about boarding the Explorer alone, as I believed cruises were meant for families and couples. I had never embarked on such a significant solo journey, so spending ten days on my own was a bit frightening. However, I soon discovered that the atmosphere of an expedition cruise is entirely unique. The emphasis was on adventure and connecting with our surroundings—both culturally and naturally.

Many activities were suitable for solo travelers, including hikes, e-biking, and a boat excursion to the iconic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland. One day, while exploring the stunning Diamond Beach, characterized by its black volcanic sands and shimmering blue icebergs, I felt overwhelmed by both tranquility and wonder. Research has shown that engaging with nature, even through simple walks, can have therapeutic benefits.

While I valued my time alone, I also connected with other travelers. The ship accommodated 148 guests, which encouraged social interactions during unassigned seating in the dining areas and during social hours.

With 148 guests on board, it didn’t take long for faces to become familiar. We all shared a common adventure. Yet, the ship never felt overcrowded, especially since passengers were divided into groups for excursions and disembarkation.

“Welcoming solo travelers is one of my favorite aspects,” noted Leah Eaton, the expedition leader for my journey. “We cultivate an environment where everyone is thrilled for the activities ahead. We consider ourselves a family, including our guests, so it’s important to us that no one feels isolated.”

Several naturalists accompanied each excursion and meal, always eager to discuss Iceland’s rich folklore or its geological features.

No planning stress

The itinerary I followed allowed easy access to remote parts of Iceland without the burden of arranging transportation, finding trustworthy tour operators, or—importantly—worrying about safety as a solo female traveler. Everything, from food to transport and activities, was handled.

“Once you find yourself on a voyage as a solo traveler,” Eaton explained, “we manage all the onshore details, letting you relax and savor the experience.”

Travelers setting out on their own incur a “solo premium,” which is included in the overall cost. For a single cabin on the Circumnavigation of Iceland adventure, prices start at $28,173 per person. This covers your cabin, meals, drinks (including alcoholic beverages), excursions onshore, and transfers from the airport. Certain sail dates throughout the year do not apply this premium, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for those options.

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions also has a program that pairs solo travelers with a roommate to allow them to pay a shared occupancy rate. This option is dependent on availability, and you will be charged this rate even if a roommate isn’t found. To take advantage of this option, you need to reach out to the company directly.

Since the cruise takes care of the schedule, me and my fellow passengers didn’t have to worry about cancellation fees as we would if we had booked independently. There are typically activities planned for both the morning and afternoon, providing greater flexibility in how you spend your time.

Marie Trudeau, a solo traveler from Columbus, Ohio, shares this sentiment. Eight years after the loss of her husband, her main travel partner, Trudeau continues to journey on her own, even when friends are unavailable.
“Though I have an adventurous spirit, I’m older now and value my safety,” the 72-year-old told YSL News.

Like me, Trudeau appreciated the ability to bypass scheduled activities for some much-needed downtime. She challenged herself with long hikes while also choosing to enjoy quiet moments with a book in her cabin. “I don’t have to compromise with anyone,” she noted.

For Trudeau, this was the ideal way to experience Iceland, a location she had always wanted to visit.

“The ship travels around the country, so it’s like having your hotel move along with you. There’s no need to pack and unpack each day,” she remarked. Trudeau is confident she won’t miss out on any experiences because National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has organized everything for her.

With a commitment to sustainable travel and conservation, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions steers clear of overcrowded locations, enabling travelers to avoid chaotic crowds and extended waits at various stops. (The cruise may alter its route if multiple ships are scheduled to dock at a port.)

A balance of structure and independence

One of the greatest advantages of traveling alone is the freedom to pursue your interests without having to compromise with anyone. I could spend as much time as I wanted in the geothermal baths or marvel at the puffins. Even with numerous choices available, how I spent my trip was entirely up to me, which felt exhilarating.

As the ship made its way back to Reykjavik, I felt a stronger bond with my travel companion: myself. I learned more about myself during this journey than I ever could at home, recognizing what truly brings me joy while traveling (feeling small among nature) and discovering my travel style (early risings for leisurely mornings). I stepped out of my comfort zone by engaging with strangers during meals, starting conversations, while also enjoying the freedom to explore Iceland’s beauty at my own pace.

While sharing adventures with others creates treasured memories, there’s an unmistakable charm in exploring a new place solo.

The reporter in this story was given complimentary access to this sailing by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. YSL News retains full editorial control over the content.