There is really such a thing as independent traveling. Those individuals who prefer to cruise by themselves and without companions are often regarded as the best people to mingle with, and for a good reason. They have a wider perspective of the world since they have toured extensively and are not hampered by the economic constraints of having to bring along their buddies.
Such is the idea being promoted by several yacht cabin charters these days. They have been designing sailing vacations that cater to lone travelers who are willing to share a cruising activity with fellow independent tourists. A yacht filled with strangers on a strange coast? Definitely an exciting experience worth remembering.
What exactly are the advantages of cruising with complete strangers on board? You may be imagining worst-case scenarios involving passengers whom you would rather not be in the same space with party animals who get intoxicated and leave behind the evidence on the deck until the next day, an irresponsible passenger who clutters the cabin with his belongings, etc. Those are valid reasons. However, you must also know that there are benefits to cruising with the right people no matter how scary it may sound at the beginning. Here are just some of the pros of going on sailing vacations with other people:
- You get to interact with travelers who may share the same interests as you do. Whether it is about food or traveling itself, you have the opportunity to meet other people who know your game and share your passions. Yacht cruises are perfect occasions for getting out there and practicing your conversational skills. It does not matter whether you are shy or outgoing; you will end up running into other passengers throughout the duration of the trip anyway. Although unlike on cruise ships where you are often obliged to attend social functions, here you are not forced to socialize if you are not in your element.
- You can get insider tips on traveling and other matters of your interest. The best thing about interacting with other passengers on a cabin charter is that you can uncover tips and secrets that are valuable for your future endeavors. A passenger coming all the way from, say Italy, can provide you with first-hand information about the best place to stay in Rome, or about the restaurant which has the tastiest version of steaks. You can listen to some travel anecdotes from fellow passengers that may provide you with valuable insights.
- You can get assistance for some activities while onboard. Although there is the official crew of the yacht who is ready to assist you with any activity, it is a good thing when you can ask for help from some of the passengers onboard. Whether it is a water activity or something as trivial as borrowing a mobile phone to make a call, you know you can depend on other people even if you have limited knowledge about their identity.
Most companies that provide shared yacht charters such as the Intersailclub require those who have booked their trips with them to provide the necessary information so that other interested individuals may know beforehand who they will be dealing with throughout the cruise.
- You can form lasting friendships with fellow passengers. Perhaps an experience far better than the travel itself is the opportunity to gain friends during your escapades. Indeed, solo travelers prefer to be alone to mingle with strangers aside from the locals in their destination. The most cherished friendships are those formed spontaneously. You better treasure that one friend you met during one of your sailing vacations. Who knows, you may be able to book a new trip with him.