Solo Cruises: The Ultimate Guide to Cruising Alone in 2023

Solo cruises are a great way to see the world and meet new people without having to worry about being alone. Cruise lines offer a variety of activities and amenities for solo cruisers, including dedicated lounges, social events, and even special cabins designed for single travelers.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about solo cruising. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, solo cruising is a great way to experience the world in a new and exciting way. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your solo cruise today!

Benefits of Solo Cruises

Solo cruises offer several benefits that make them an attractive option for travelers.

#1. Flexibility and Independence

The ability to plan your itinerary and do anything you want, whenever you want, is one of the key advantages of solo cruises. You are free to tour other ports of call, partake in activities, and eat whenever you want without having to think about what other people would like.

#2. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

Traveling alone allows you to step out of your comfort zone, gain confidence, and discover more about yourself. It provides an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth.

#3. Meeting New People

Contrary to popular belief, solo cruising doesn’t mean being alone all the time. Many cruise lines offer special programs and activities designed to facilitate social interaction among solo travelers. You can meet like-minded individuals, make new friends, and even find travel companions for future trips.

#4. Tailored Experiences

Some cruise lines provide special amenities and services for solo travelers. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers solo cabins and lounges specifically designed for solo cruisers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

#5. Last-Minute Availability

Solo travelers often have more flexibility when it comes to booking cruises. They can take advantage of last-minute deals and discounts, as there is usually more availability for single-occupancy cabins.

#6. Personal Reflection and Relaxation

Solo cruises provide an opportunity for solitude and relaxation. You can enjoy quiet moments, read a book, or simply unwind while taking in the beautiful views of the ocean.

#7. Freedom to Disconnect

Going on a solo cruise allows you to disconnect from the demands of everyday life. You can leave behind work, responsibilities, and distractions, and fully immerse yourself in the cruise experience.

#8. Personalized Service

On a solo cruise, you may receive more personalized service from the crew and staff. With fewer passengers to attend to, the staff can give individual attention and cater to your specific needs and preferences.

#9. Enhanced Cultural Immersion

Traveling alone can provide a deeper cultural immersion experience. Without the influence of travel companions, you may find yourself more open to interacting with locals, exploring local customs, and engaging in authentic cultural experiences.

#10. Self-Care and Wellness

Solo cruises can be an excellent opportunity for self-care and wellness. Many cruise ships offer spa facilities, fitness centers, yoga classes, and wellness programs that allow you to focus on your physical and mental well-being.

Solo Cruise Deals

Solo cruise deals are special offers and promotions tailored specifically for travelers who are journeying alone. These deals often include discounted fares, reduced single supplement fees, or exclusive perks designed to make solo travel more affordable and enjoyable. They are a way for cruise lines to cater to the growing number of solo travelers and encourage them to embark on solo adventures at sea.

Solo cruise deals offer a variety of promotions and offers. The common types include

#1. Reduced Single Supplement

The single supplement is an additional fee charged to solo travelers to compensate for the loss of revenue from not having a second person in the cabin. Some cruise lines offer reduced or waived single supplements, which can significantly lower the cost for solo cruisers.

#2. Solo Cabins

Certain cruise lines have dedicated solo cabins designed specifically for solo travelers. These cabins are usually smaller in size and priced for single occupancy. Various Cruise Line offers Studio Staterooms designed exclusively for solo travelers.

Many cruise lines organize social events and activities specifically for solo travelers. These events provide opportunities for solo cruisers to meet and connect with other like-minded travelers onboard. Celebrity Cruises, for instance, offers hosted social events for solo travelers.

#4. Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

Some cruise lines have loyalty programs that offer special benefits and discounts for solo travelers who frequently sail with them. These programs may include perks such as priority boarding, onboard credits, and discounted fares for solo cruisers.

#5. River Cruises for Solo Travelers

River cruise lines, such as AmaWaterways, offer reduced single supplements and solo traveler-friendly itineraries. This often has a more intimate atmosphere and can be a great option for solo travelers looking for a different cruising experience.

#6. Special Offers and Promotions

Cruise lines regularly offer special deals and promotions that may include reduced fares, onboard credits, free upgrades, or other incentives for solo travelers. These offers can vary depending on the cruise line, destination, and time of booking.

#7. Specialty Solo Cruises

Some cruise lines offer specialty cruises tailored for solo travelers. These cruises may include themed itineraries, workshops, or activities specifically designed for solo cruisers.

#8. Last-Minute Solo Cruise Deals

Occasionally, cruise lines may offer last-minute deals and discounts for solo travelers. These deals can provide significant savings, but availability may be limited, so it’s important to keep an eye out for them.

#9. Group Travel

Another option for solo travelers is to join group travel experiences organized by travel agencies or cruise lines. These group trips often bring together solo travelers, providing a built-in social network and the opportunity to explore destinations with a group.

#10. Hosted Singles Cruises

Some travel agencies offer hosted singles cruises where trained hosts organize get-togethers, cocktail parties, dinner seating, and more, allowing individuals or friends to travel as part of a large and fun-loving group of singles

Best Solo Cruises

The best cruise lines offer exceptional solo cruise experiences, with their offerings and amenities tailored specifically for solo travelers, making them stand out in the industry. The cruise lines are

#1. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its solo-friendly accommodations and activities. They offer a variety of stateroom options designed specifically for solo travelers, including Studio staterooms that are designed and priced for solo occupancy.

#2. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers different itineraries catering to various interests, making it a great choice for solo travelers. They have crafted different experiences for travelers of all kinds, from introverts who prefer fewer social activities to extroverts who enjoy meeting new people. Celebrity Cruises also offers solo cabins with their Infinite Veranda concept, featuring large windows that create a sunroom-like space.

#3. Royal Caribbean

The Royal Caribbean hosts meetups for solo travelers on their ships, providing opportunities to connect with others in the same situation. Royal Caribbean is known for its wide range of onboard activities, from big-production shows to rock-climbing walls and surfing pools, which solo travelers can enjoy.

#4. Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises is a luxury cruise line that offers single supplements of just 10% to 25% on select sailings, making it an attractive option for solo travelers looking for a more upscale experience. Occasionally, they even waive the single supplement entirely during short-term promotions.

#5. Holland America

Holland America offers options for solo travelers, including solo cabins or reduced fares for those traveling alone. They provide a range of itineraries and experiences to cater to different preferences.

#6. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is new in the cruise industry and offers great options for solo travelers. They have dedicated solo cabins and provide a fun and vibrant environment for solo cruisers to enjoy their vacation.

#7. Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers solo cabins on some of their ships, including the Queen Mary 2. These cabins are designed for solo occupancy and provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for solo cruisers.

#8. MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises also caters to solo travelers with their solo cabin options. They have dedicated solo cabins available on select ships, providing a private and convenient space for solo cruisers.

#9. P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises offers solo cabins on some of their ships, including the Britannia and Iona. These cabins are designed for solo occupancy and provide a comfortable and stylish option for solo travelers.

#10. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers solo cabins on their ships, including the Royal Princess and Regal Princess. These cabins are designed for solo occupancy and provide a comfortable and welcoming space for solo cruisers.

Senior Solo Cruises

Senior Solo Cruises are designed for older adults who are traveling alone. These cruises cater to the needs and preferences of solo senior travelers, providing a worry-free vacation with tailored accommodations and activities. They offer opportunities to meet fellow passengers, engage in social activities, and explore various destinations. Different cruise lines offer options for senior solo travelers. Companies like Tauck, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Silversea are popular choices. These cruise lines provide a range of itineraries for senior travelers.

Features of Senior Solo Cruises

Senior solo cruises provide ample opportunities for socializing and meeting new people. Many cruise lines organize single meet-ups and host events specifically for solo travelers. These activities create a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, allowing seniors to connect with like-minded individuals and form new friendships.

#2. Solo Traveler Savings

Some cruise lines offer special discounts and incentives for solo travelers. For example, Tauck and Uniworld waive or reduce the single supplement fee on select sailings and cabin categories, making it more affordable for seniors to travel alone.

#3. Dedicated Single-Occupancy Staterooms

Certain cruise lines feature dedicated single-occupancy staterooms. These cabins are designed specifically for solo travelers and provide a comfortable and private space for seniors to relax and unwind during their cruise.

#4. All-Inclusive Packages

Many senior solo cruises offer all-inclusive packages, which include accommodations, meals, and various onboard activities. These packages provide convenience and peace of mind, as seniors don’t have to worry about planning accommodations or meals during their trip.

#5. Engaging Onboard Activities

Senior solo cruises often feature a variety of onboard activities tailored to older adults. These activities may include daily talks from guest speakers, casino games, fitness classes, live entertainment, and more.

#6. Destinations and Itineraries

Senior solo cruises offer a wide range of destinations and itineraries to choose from. Whether seniors are interested in exploring the Caribbean, European capitals, or even polar regions, there are cruises available that cater to their preferences.

#7. Group Shore Excursions

Senior solo cruises often include group shore excursions as part of the itinerary. These excursions allow solo travelers to explore ports of call with a group of like-minded individuals, providing a sense of companionship and shared experiences.

#8. Solo Traveler Meetups and Events

Cruise lines often organize solo traveler meetups and events where solo travelers can connect. These gatherings provide a social setting for seniors to meet fellow solo travelers, share experiences, and potentially make lifelong friends.

#9. Solo Traveler Hosts or Ambassadors

Some cruise lines provide dedicated solo traveler hosts or ambassadors who are available to assist solo travelers throughout the cruise. These hosts act as a point of contact, offering guidance, organizing group activities, and ensuring solo travelers feel comfortable and included during the trip.

#10. Enrichment Programs

Many senior solo cruises offer enrichment programs and educational activities onboard. These programs may include classes, workshops, and lectures on various topics such as art, history, cooking, or wellness. These activities provide opportunities for solo travelers to engage in learning experiences and expand their knowledge while cruising.

Can You Do A Solo Cruise?

Yes, you can go on a solo cruise! Cruising solo is a great way to relax, rejuvenate, and have some alone time while enjoying exciting destinations around the world. It allows you the freedom to do what you want when you want to do it. You can choose to participate in onboard activities, socialize with other passengers, or enjoy your own company. Many cruise lines offer accommodations specifically designed for solo travelers, such as single staterooms with private verandas.

Is A Solo Cruise A Good Idea?

A solo cruise can be a great idea for those looking for freedom, relaxation, and personal growth. It offers the opportunity to have quality alone time, meet new people through organized social events, and explore destinations at your own pace. Solo cruising allows for self-reflection, independence, and the chance to try new things. Cruise ships provide a secure environment for solo travelers, and single-occupancy cabins make it convenient and affordable.

Which Cruise Line Is Best For Singles?

Norwegian Cruise Line is often mentioned as one of the top choices for solo travelers Norwegian Cruise Line has been recognized as the best cruise line for solo travelers for six consecutive years They offer a variety of options for solo travelers, including single staterooms and organized meet-ups for singles on board. Other cruise lines that are often mentioned as suitable for singles include Royal Caribbean, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages.

How Much Are Solo Cruises?

Solo travelers often have to pay a single supplement fee, which can range from a percentage increase to a double occupancy rate. The cost of solo cruises can range from around $240 to $6,200 per person, depending on the itinerary. Additional expenses like taxes, gratuities, and onboard activities should also be considered.

Is It Cheaper To Cruise Alone?

Cruising alone may not always be cheaper compared to cruising with a companion. While some cruise lines offer solo cabins or reduced single supplements, the single rate is often slightly higher than the per-person rate for double occupancy.

Is Cruising Alone Expensive?

Cruising alone can be more expensive compared to traveling with a companion. This is because most cruise lines charge a single supplement fee, which is an additional charge for occupying a cabin designed for two people by yourself. The single supplement fee can vary depending on the cruise line and the specific cruise, but it is generally higher than the per-person rate for double occupancy.

Conclusion

Solo cruise deals offer discounted fares, single supplement fees, and exclusive perks to encourage solo travelers to embark on affordable and enjoyable sea adventures. The best cruise lines offer exceptional solo cruise experiences, with their offerings and amenities tailored specifically for solo travelers, making them stand out in the industry. Senior Solo Cruises caters to older adults traveling alone, offering tailored accommodations, social activities, and discounted rates. These cruises feature dedicated single-occupancy staterooms, all-inclusive packages, engaging onboard activities, and a wide range of destinations.