My First Solo Cruise Around the Greek Islands: A Dreamy Adventure on Marella Explorer

My First Solo Cruise Around the Greek Islands: A Dreamy Adventure on Marella Explorer

Have you ever thought about taking a solo cruise but weren’t quite sure if it was for you? Girl, let me tell you—my first solo cruise around the Greek Islands on the Marella Explorer was an absolute dream. It was a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and, of course, some much-needed me-time. If you’re a solo female traveller thinking about cruising, buckle up because I’m about to spill all the details—from the ship’s best spots to the stunning Greek islands I explored!

The Marella Explorer: My Home at Sea

Let’s start with the ship itself because, honestly, the Marella Explorer felt like a floating resort. I was a little nervous before boarding, wondering if I’d feel out of place traveling alone, but that feeling disappeared as soon as I stepped on board. There’s such a welcoming vibe, and I quickly realized that solo travellers aren’t rare here—Marella even organizes solo traveller meet-ups, which are perfect for making new friends!

Cabin Life: Worth the Upgrade?

I stayed in an extra-large balcony cabin, and wow—best decision ever. I had a sun lounger and a hammock on my balcony, and waking up every morning to a brand-new view? Pure magic. If you’re debating whether to upgrade, trust me, go for the balcony or at least an ocean-view cabin—it’s worth every penny. If you’re traveling solo and want a private balcony, act fast because solo balcony cabins sell out quickly!

Let’s Talk Food: All-Inclusive & Specialty Restaurants

One of my favourite parts of the cruise? The food! Marella Explorer is all-inclusive, but they also have some fabulous specialty restaurants if you’re up for treating yourself. Here’s the breakdown:

Included in Your All-Inclusive Package:

• The Buffet – Perfect for grabbing a casual meal with plenty of variety.

• The Italian Restaurant – Think pasta, pizza, and all your carb dreams come true.

• The Main Dining Room – A more traditional sit-down restaurant with a changing menu.

Specialty Restaurants (Extra Cost):

• Surf & Turf – This was my last-night treat, and it was so worth it. I had a delicious steak and a glass of wine while reminiscing about my trip.

• Kora La – If you love Asian cuisine, this is a must. Think flavorful curries and sushi.

• The Beach Cove – A BBQ-inspired spot with grilled meats and seafood, perfect for a relaxed dining experience.

Oh, and for my fellow coffee lovers, there’s a coffee shop onboard that isn’t included in the regular all-inclusive package. But if you upgrade to Inclusive Plus, your fancy lattes and cappuccinos are covered! If you don’t want to upgrade, no worries—the prices are reasonable, so you can treat yourself without breaking the bank.

What to Do Onboard? So Much!

There was never a dull moment on the ship. Whether you want to be social or just chill, there’s something for everyone.

• Wine Tasting Class – Hands down, one of my favourite activities! I got to try different wines, learn about them, and meet other travellers.

• Sail Away Party – This set the tone for the trip! Dancing on deck with a cocktail in hand as we sailed off? Yes, please.

• Theatre Shows Every Night – The Broadway Theatre had a different show every evening, and they were actually really good!

• Cinema Nights – If you’re in the mood for a cozy night in, they have a cinema on board, too.

• Solo Traveller Meet-Ups – Perfect for making new cruise buddies.

The Stunning Greek Islands I Explored

Every day brought a new adventure! Here’s where I went:

Santorini: Postcard-Perfect Views

The excursion I booked here was for a free day in Santorini with transfers from the ship and back —I just wandered, soaked up the views, and had a lovely brunch at a cute café. Of course, I saw the famous Santorini donkeys, but it made me feel sad for them, so I skipped the rides. The island is gorgeous, though, and worth every minute of exploring. Also just to make you aware this was the only tender port where we had to get a little boat off the ship to the Island.

Rhodes: A Walk Through History

I loved Rhodes! Walking through the medieval Old Town felt like stepping back in time. The history, the castles, the winding streets—it’s a must-visit for any history lover. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. As I strolled through the cobblestone streets, I passed by the Palace of the Grand Master, an impressive fortress that once housed the Knights of St. John. The Street of the Knights was another highlight, where I could almost imagine the medieval knights walking in their armour centuries ago. Rhodes perfectly blends history with charming modern cafes and shops, making it one of my favourite stops on the cruise.

Mykonos & Delos Island: An Ancient Wonder

From Mykonos, I took a boat to Delos Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Walking through the ruins was surreal—it felt like stepping into a Greek myth. Heads up, though—there’s no shade on Delos, and it was HOT, so bring a hat and lots of water.

Crete: A Day to Relax

I actually stayed onboard during our stop in Crete, but I heard great things about Souda, the port town. If you want to explore, it’s known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites.

Katakolon & Olympia: The Birthplace of the Olympics

This stop was so special! I visited Olympia, where the first-ever Olympic Games were held. Walking among the ruins of ancient temples and stadiums was surreal. The Temple of Zeus, once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (the statue of Zeus), was awe-inspiring, even in its ruined state. The Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame is still lit today for the modern Games, was another highlight.

The nearby Archaeological Museum of Olympia was fascinating, showcasing statues, tools, and artifacts uncovered from the site, including the famous Hermes of Praxiteles. Learning about how the ancient Greeks trained and competed in the Olympics added so much depth to the experience.

If you love history and mythology, Olympia is a must-visit. Plus, Katakolon itself is a charming seaside town where you can grab a coffee and enjoy the coastal views after exploring the ruins.

Top Tip from Emma: Pace Yourself with Excursions

When planning your excursions, really take the time to look at what’s on offer and don’t feel pressured to book something every single day. I made the mistake of scheduling excursions for every stop, and by the time we got to Crete, I was so exhausted that I had to cancel mine. It’s okay to take a day off and just enjoy the ship! Sometimes, the best memories are made when you slow down and give yourself a break.

Solo Cruise Planner & Packing Guide – Your Essential Companion!

To make your solo cruise experience even smoother, I’ve put together a Solo Cruise Planner & Packing Guide! This digital download includes:

✅ A printable cruise itinerary planner to help organize your trip.
✅ Packing checklists (including outfits, essentials, and cruise must-haves).
✅ Excursion decision guide so you can plan without burnout.
✅ Solo cruise safety & confidence tips.
✅ Budget tracker for onboard spending.

Grab your copy today and set sail with confidence! Solo Cruise Planner & Packing Guide | Editable & Printable Travel Organizer

Would You Try a Solo Cruise?

If you’ve ever dreamed about taking a solo trip but weren’t sure where to start, a solo cruise is a fantastic option. It’s safe, social, and stress-free since everything is taken care of.

So, what do you think? Would you try a solo cruise?

And if you need help planning your own dream solo adventure, I’d love to help! Get in touch with Dream Trips by Emma, and let’s make your travel dreams a reality. ✨