I’m always thinking about travel.
Seriously. If I’m not on a cruise,
I’m planning one, researching one, or talking about one.

Hi, I’m the voice behind Solo SailHER -
and if there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s this:

About ME

Meet Chelsy Cardin

Founder & Travel Advisor

I’m a travel-obsessed, detail-loving, cruise-planning machine who thinks about itineraries the way most people think about what’s for dinner.

  • I research ships for fun
  • I track cruise deals like it’s a sport
  • I plan trips down to the smallest detail 

If there’s a smarter, easier, or more enjoyable way to cruise solo…
I’ve probably already tested it.

Solo cruising isn’t just “regular cruising… but alone.” It’s different. And no one really tells you how to do it right.

  • How to avoid feeling awkward at dinner
  • How to pick the right cabin (without overpaying)
  • How to stay safe and still have fun
  • How to actually enjoy your own company 

I created Solo SailHER to give you the real, unfiltered version -
the stuff you won’t find in generic travel guides.

I realized instantly that solo cruising isn’t lonely. It’s liberating.
It’s waking up in a new place, doing exactly what you want, and realizing you don’t need to wait on anyone to live your life.

And if you’re even thinking about trying it… you’re in the right
place and I'm so glad you're here. 

Galápagos Islands

Wildlife encounters, crystal-clear waters, and landscapes that feel untouched - like I stepped straight into a nature documentary - this wasn’t just a trip, it was an experience. 

FAVORITE ADVENTURES

A Few of My

Wild, Unfiltered, Unreal

Greece

Whitewashed buildings, bright blue domes, and views that don’t even look real - Greece is that destination. Whether I’m wandering cliffside paths or soaking in the sun, it’s pure magic.

MAIN CHARACTER ENERGY

Portugal

Golden coastlines, tiled streets, and Pastel de Natas that I’m still thinking about. From wandering seaside towns to chasing sunsets, I’m already planning my return.

Hand Painted tiles

MEET THE CREW 🐾 

Cruz & Jet

Because every good captain has a loyal crew… even if they have four legs and zero interest in cruise itineraries.

Named after my favorite way to travel (obviously), Cruz is convinced it’s his job to protect the house while I’m out sailing the world.

And Jet fully supports the solo cruise lifestyle - as long as it includes maximum relaxation upon my return.

OFFICIAL SOLO SAILHER MASCOTS

Frequently Asked Questions

I went on my first cruise when I was 18 years old, and averaged just one or two cruises a year for over 20 years. In 2025 I went on 7 cruises and for 2026, I already have 8 cruises booked for the year... you could say I've definitely ramped things up a bit! For those trying to do the math, I am 41 years old now. 

When did you start cruising?

I live in the United States so that one is a given. I have also had the pleasure to travel to the following amazing destinations: Australia, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Columbia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, France, Greece, Grenada, Haiti, Honduras, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Malta, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Portugal, Saint Kitts, Saint Lucia, and Spain. 



What countries have you visited?

2026 is going to be an exciting year filled with travel, and it's already off to a great start! In January I did a 12 day Panama Canal cruise and LOVED it, in March I went to the Caribbean. and I just did my first Transatlantic cruise in April - sailing from Florida to Spain and France and it was incredible. I also have two cruises to Alaska this summer, a couple weeks in Hawaii, and a Canada and New England cruise in the Fall. I'll be heading back to Portugal (Lisbon) and then sailing to Morocco, the Canary Islands, and Spain (Barcelona). And finally, I'll be wrapping up the year in Singapore and will hop on a ship that will sail to Vietnam, Thailand, and China.    

Where are you heading to this year?

Cruising is my favorite, but I also love flying into a destination, renting a car, and driving around as much of the country as I can in the time that I'm there. I recently did this in Costa Rica, New Zealand, and Portugal and it was amazing how much I was able to see and experience, but the planning and logistics are much more detailed compared to cruising. There's pros and cons to each travel method, but I'd say I'm a pro at both. 

Do you only cruise or do you travel any other way?

Want behind-the-scenes tips, real-time cruise updates, and solo sailing inspiration? Follow me on Instagram for inspiration and honest advice straight from the ship.

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