Carnival Splendor has undergone a major refresh and is ready to welcome everyone – including solo travellers – to set sail on the ship of fun.
I’m a huge advocate for solo travel (I believe everyone should do it at least once in their life, if they get the chance), but sailing solo on a cruise? It never even crossed my mind.
Part of that is because I’ve never been on a cruise before, but mostly it’s because when I think of cruises I think of families, big groups of friends and even honeymooners. I don’t think of solo travellers.
But that was before I spent nine days at sea on Carnival Splendor.
The Great Barrier Reef sailing experience sees me depart from Sydney, stopping at Moreton Island, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Willis Island, before arriving back in Sydney.
Fresh off a dry-dock in Singapore, Carnival Splendor has recently been upgraded with all the latest bells and whistles. There’s a new basketball court and jogging track, revamped family-friendly waterpark, enhanced staterooms and plenty of new and updated dining options.
When I arrive at the overseas passenger terminal I’m immediately taken aback by the grandness of the ship (it carries over 4,000 passengers and staff) and her striking red, white, and blue hull design.
True to form, there are plenty of groups waiting to board, but I also spot a few solo stragglers who seem just as excited to embark.
After I check-in my luggage and go through security, I arrive in the impressive lobby of Carnival Splendor, before tracking down my cabin.
Then I join my fellow passengers – sans Hawaiian shirt, which I’ve realised a touch too late is the universal cruise uniform – for the sail away party, where the fun officially begins.
Accommodation
My ocean view stateroom featured a comfy queen-size bed, plenty of closet space and a television, along with an ensuite. It serves as the perfect retreat when I need a break from all the fun.
The best part of the room had to be the ocean view – there’s nothing more relaxing than watching the water from your bed. That and the towel animals that always awaited me on my return to the room.
Entertainment
Where to begin… the hardest part of my stay on Carnival Splendor was figuring out what to do each day.
From trivia and karaoke to pool-side movies and waterslides, the cruise is absolutely jampacked with entertainment. The stage productions, including the newest addition ‘Dear Future Husband’, are fun and high-energy. Bingo, I learn, is a must-do for anyone who stays on a cruise – regardless of your age.
For those who prefer relaxation over socialisation, Cloud 9 Spa offers massages, facials and a thalassotherapy pool, as well as a fitness centre decked out in new gym equipment.
A favourite of mine had to be the piano bar – it was where I ended up most nights. Guests would hand in song recommendations to the piano player who would play everything from Queen and ABBA to Taylor Swift. Regardless of the song choice, there was always someone singing along.
For those who do decide to travel solo, mixers for independent travellers are regularly held to allow you to meet other people. In fact, there’s mixers for pretty much everybody, including for those who are over 50, singles and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
What to eat
With no shortage of food options onboard, even the pickiest of eaters will find something they love.
For me, the real highlights were the recently expanded Masala Tiger, the high-end Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse and the ever-popular Guy’s Burger Joint.
Masala Tiger, located on deck 10, serves up some mouthwatering Indian cuisine, featuring everything from tandoori chicken and naan to goat curries and kebabs.
At an added cost, Fahrenheit 555 is a great option for those who are looking to celebrate a special occasion or just want an unforgettable meal. The lobster and dessert platter are to die for.
A special mention goes to the Gold and Black Pearl Restaurants for their impromptu dinner entertainment (where else can you go to see your waiters break out in a dance routine to Flo Rida’s ‘Low’?) and the delicious melting chocolate cake – the Carnival team don’t mess around when it comes to their staple dessert.
Offshore experiences
With stops at Moreton Island, Airlie Beach and Cairns, Carnival Splendor offers a huge range of activities for travellers who want to make the most of their time in each destination.
I was lucky enough to enjoy two experiences myself: snorkelling the shipwrecks in Moreton Island and an expedition out to Whitehaven Island from Airlie Beach.
Another first for me: I’ve never been snorkelling. So, getting the chance to do it around the impressive wrecks of Moreton Island was a huge bucket-list moment.
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of diving under the water only to find yourself surrounded by all kinds of fish, with the submerged ships within touching distance.
In Airlie Beach, a boat zooms through tropical waters to arrive at Whitehaven Island – one of the most photographed sites in Australia. And with its pristine, snow-white sand and crystal-clear water it’s easy to see why. After a 15-minute bushwalk up-hill, I arrive at a lookout where I can take in the truly magnificent views of the beach – it’s a must-visit for every Australian.
Final word
One thing about a cruise is that the passengers are always happy to have a chat.
Whenever I was doing activities by myself or even just waiting for the lift, someone was always cracking a joke or starting a conversation. I never felt lonely and I never felt bored.
Whether you’re travelling as a group or by yourself, Carnival has designed a cruise experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. Don’t let the fear of solo travel put you off from an incredible holiday.
Book your cruise or find out more here.
Ellie Busby travelled as a guest of Carnival Cruises.
Ellie Busby
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other projects.