Sea days are the soul of cruising—no ports, no rush, just endless ocean and the freedom to create your own rhythm. On Norwegian Getaway, that rhythm is easy to find, especially as a solo cruiser. Whether you want quiet reflection, good company, or a bit of both, sea days can fit the bill. I recently cruised solo on the Getaway and was so pleased with the options available that I’ve booked the same itinerary for next year.

☀️ Morning: Coffee, Calm, and Ocean Views

Most mornings, I started out the solo way—on my own schedule. This was especially true on sea days. Breakfast room service was a luxury I took advantage of a couple of mornings. The continental breakfast of pastries, fruit and coffee is just enough to get going. On this most recent cruise, I was in a Solo Balcony that provided access to the Studio Lounge where I found an espresso machine that made a great latte, fresh pastries, and occasional conversation with fellow solo travelers.

I had a look at the Freestyle Daily that was left the night before by my cabin steward. This daily bulletin provided announcements and highlights for the coming day, as well as a list of all activities open to cruisers. On this sea day, I found the standard trivia, bingo, and music on the pool deck. There were also some not so common listings like Battle of the Cake Masters at 10:15 and a Soccer Shoot-Out at 1:30. It was nice to have an idea of happenings around the ship that I could participate in if the mood struck me.

Once I was ready to face the day, I ventured out to The Waterfront, Getaway’s open-air promenade wrapping around Deck 8. It was serene in the early hours—perfect for journaling, reading, or simply soaking in the sea air. I found several spots around the deck with comfortable seating and very few people. If you are the more active type, morning stretch or yoga classes were held in the fitness center—great energy, zero pressure.

For me and for many solo cruisers, a perfect morning also includes quiet time on the balcony. There’s something special about curling up with a book or Kindle and letting the sound of the sea fill the silence. The ocean becomes your soundtrack—steady, peaceful, and endlessly changing.

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🌊 Afternoon: Food, Fun, and a Bit of Freedom

By midday, there is a different energy on the ship so I decided to explore. I wandered up to Deck 17 where I saw excited folks trying the water slides, ropes course, or just shooting hoops. For a calmer vibe, folks had retreated to Spice H2O on Deck 16. This is the adults-only deck with shaded loungers and its signature waterfall grotto.

By the time I wandered to Deck 15, it was time for lunch in The Garden Café. This NCL global buffet features both inside and open air seating which seems to continue the “freestyle” theme that NCL is known to feature. I found a good variety of food options and quickly grabbed a two top table next to the windows to enjoy the views while eating lunch. I have to say that I felt welcomed everywhere—servers would strike up conversations while topping off my tea, and I never felt rushed.

Check your Freestyle Daily or the NCL app for midday events like trivia, wine tastings, or dance lessons. Trivia is a crowd favorite—fun, fast-paced, and surprisingly social. It’s easy to join a team or just enjoy the friendly competition from your seat with a cold drink in hand.

If you’d rather unwind, book an afternoon pass to the Mandara Spa Thermal Suite—heated loungers, ocean-view whirlpools, and the snow room make it an unforgettable escape.

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🌅 Evening: Dress Up or Wind Down

As the sun sets, grab a drink at the Sunset Bar on The Waterfront or chill at the frosty Skyy Vodka Ice Bar. Dinner choices fit every mood: enjoy live Latin tunes in the Tropicana Room, a refined steak at Cagney’s, or a relaxed solo dinner in the main dining rooms Taste or Savor.

Entertainment ramps up after dark with Burn the Floor, stand-up comedy, or live music in the atrium. Solo travelers often meet up again here—whether it’s trivia teammates or fellow loungers from earlier in the day.

Later in the evening, many solo cruisers head to the Getaway Casino for a little slot play. It’s lively but not intimidating—regulars greet each other like old friends, and there’s always a bit of friendly conversation between spins. With a drink in hand and no schedule to keep, it’s an easy, carefree way to end the night.

Before turning in, take one last walk under the stars along Deck 8’s Waterfront. The sound of the waves and the glow of the horizon make the perfect solo sea day finale.

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💫 Final Thoughts

A day at sea on Norwegian Getaway is proof that solo cruising can be both independent and social. Whether you fill your day with activity or savor quiet moments on your balcony, you’ll find your own rhythm on board—and it might just become your favorite kind of day.