A cruise with barely anyone on board is like finding a hidden, luxurious version of the ship. Fewer passengers mean wide-open spaces, quiet corners, and an unusual sense of freedom aboard the vessel. This way, every area feels more personal, offering opportunities that aren’t possible on a packed ship. Here’s why you should consider this adventure.
VIP Treatment
When you’re one of the few guests on board, you’ll feel like a celebrity. The staff quickly learns your name, and you’re greeted with a smile and personalized service wherever you go. It’s like having your personal crew at your beck and call. This exclusive treatment makes every moment feel indulgent.
Best Lounge Chairs
Forget the mad dash to snag a poolside lounge chair. With so few people on board, you can leisurely choose the perfect spot by the pool, on the sun deck, or tucked away in a quiet nook. No need to wake up early to reserve your space—it’s always waiting for you like it’s been saved just for you.
No Lines, No Waiting
Normally, cruise ships are packed with people waiting for buffets, shore excursions, or activities. But when you have the ship almost to yourself, long lines and crowded elevators are a thing of the past. You can stroll into any restaurant or activity and enjoy instant access.
Your Giant Playground
Having fewer people on board lets you explore the ship at your leisure. You can walk down hallways without seeing a single soul, giving you the strange yet exhilarating feeling that the entire ship belongs to you. There’s a grand staircase and a quiet lounge to discover without bumping into anyone.
Personalized Dining Experience
In a nearly empty ship, dining becomes something more intimate and customized. The chefs can take special requests, and you may even chat with the kitchen staff about your preferences. Want your steak cooked just a little differently? No problem. Fancy a special off-the-menu dessert? They’ll whip it up for you.
Empty Hot Tubs and Pools
On a typical cruise, a free space in the hot tub or pool can be a challenge, but not when the ship is nearly empty. Likely, you’ll have the hot tub all to yourself, perfect for soaking up the relaxation without sharing your bubbles. And the pool? It becomes your private oasis—no need to share swimlanes or dodge cannonballs.
Private Activities and Events
Trivia night, dance classes, and cooking demonstrations take on a more personal touch when there are only a handful of participants. You get front-row access to all the action, and you can interact with the instructors or hosts on a more personal level. The intimacy of these smaller gatherings makes you feel like you’re part of an exclusive club.
Best Photos Without Crowds
Normally, the ship’s scenic spots are filled with fellow passengers trying to snap that perfect sunset photo. But when the ship is almost empty, you can have the deck to yourself, capturing Instagram-worthy shots with no one in the background. You’ll feel like you have a private backdrop for every photo you take.
The Spa Is All Yours
If you love spa days, a cruise ship to yourself is like a dream come true. You’ll find plenty of availability for massages, facials, and other treatments, and the atmosphere will be calm and serene. The best part is you may even get the spa facilities, like the sauna or steam room, completely to yourself.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Cruise ships are often filled with the hustle and bustle of vacationers, but when you have it mostly to yourself, the quietness can be striking. Strolling through empty decks, hearing only the gentle sound of the ocean, can feel surreal—like being on your own private yacht. It’s peaceful, and you can truly soak in the serenity of the open sea.
Personalized Fitness Sessions
Fewer passengers on board mean the ship’s gym and fitness classes turn into your private training ground. The equipment is always available, and group classes feel more like individual sessions. Fitness instructors focus on your needs, turning every workout into a customized experience just for you.
Explore Hidden Corners
A less crowded cruise allows time to explore areas of the ship that are often overlooked. Take the opportunity to wander through quiet reading lounges or sun decks that offer total seclusion. You’ll discover hidden spots that become perfect escapes for relaxation and peaceful moments.
Uninterrupted Stargazing
One of the most magical aspects of being at sea is stargazing under a clear night sky, far away from city lights. On an empty ship, the upper decks remain quiet at night, offering a perfect setting for uninterrupted views of the stars. You can relax, gaze at the sky, and enjoy the peaceful solitude that the ocean brings.
Room Upgrades and Extra Perks
With fewer passengers on board, room upgrades or added perks often come your way. Cruise lines love to surprise guests in these situations, which may involve offering better cabins, complimentary services, or unexpected treats. It’s just another reason why having a ship almost to yourself feels like an exclusive VIP experience.
A Unique Story to Tell
How many people can say they had a cruise ship nearly to themselves? While many vacationers deal with crowds, you’ll return home with stories about the time you had an entire ship to explore in peace and quiet. It’s a travel experience that’s rare and unforgettable, and the memories of those empty decks will stay with you for a lifetime.