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SOLO CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO TRAVELLERS

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CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO CRUISING

Best for solo travellers - cruise critic's 2023 editors' picks awards.

The best experiences last a lifetime - solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travellers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you'll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. We've doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across our fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family - or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony. After all, you're pretty good company.

Exclusively for one STUDIO STATEROOMS

Studio Stateroom for Singles Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers.

The choice is yours ADDITIONAL STATEROOMS

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travellers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book - these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

Exclusively for one

Studio staterooms.

The choice is yours

Additional staterooms.

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travelers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book — these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

* Studio Lounge and accessibility varies by ship.

Things to Know:

Why cruise with ncl solo.

BEST CRUISES FOR SINGLES

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR CRUISE

WHY CRUISE NORWEGIAN SOLO

• Cruise Tips / Cruising / Solo Cruising

A Complete Guide to Solo Cruising in 2023

by Prof. Cruise · May 20, 2023

Having recently disembarked from my most recent solo cruise aboard the Celebrity Solstice (my sincerest regrets and condolences to the families of all those who drowned in my tears on the gangway), I figured it was time to update one of my most popular cruise guides, my Guide to Solo Cruising. I’ve lost count of the number of solo cruises I’ve taken, but it’s well into the double digits. And if my kid would just go off to college already, I’d be in the triple digits in no time (his teacher stopped taking my calls after multiple requests that she recommend he skip 5th-12th grades)!

This guide will cover the reasons one might choose to cruise solo, things to consider when booking a solo cruise, how to get the best price on a solo cruise (including how to avoid paying a solo supplement), ships by line that offer solo cabins, tips specific to introverted and extroverted solo cruisers, and additional resources for solo cruisers.

So, let’s begin with reasons to book a solo cruise…

Reasons to Book a Solo Cruise

Because 10 years ago, after 9 hours of labor, the doctor held up your spawn and instead of saying “it’s a boy!” or “it’s a girl!” she said, “it’s a bity teenager!”  You swear your son was born with pimples, uprolled eyes, a patchy mustache, and a full set of braced teeth and that his first words were, “seriously, mom!”  You need a break from mommying.  Seriously.

So you put your husband in charge of trying to pry from the pouty lips of Sir Grump-A-Lot a single thing he did in 4th grade today, “nothin,” while you invite your bestie to join you for a week at sea.

But because you’re a prolific sweater who insists on wearing “ natural deodorant ” if you remember to bring some at all and because, to save space in your suitcase, you pack only one set of workout clothes you air dry in the shower, she replies, “yeah, I’d love to, but I’m busy that week.”    

That’s why I cruise solo, but there are many other reasons one might choose to cruise alone :

• Some have a spouse who can’t take too much time off work. Oh wait, that’s also me.
• Some may be hoping to meet and marry a cruise ship captain.  Me again (yes, I’m already married, but he married me knowing I’d leave him for Lenny Kravitz or a cruise ship captain).
• Some enjoy their own company above the company of others.  Yep, me.  What can I say, I’ve never met another person in their 40’s who loves MTV reality shows as much I do.  Outraged me to outraged me: “I can’t believe Chris cut off Lux’s hair!”

But enough about me.  Let’s move on from the why of solo cruising to the logistics of solo cruising. 

Questions to ask Yourself Before Booking a Solo Cruise

In addition to all the standard questions one has to consider when booking a cruise such as, “where do I want to go?” and “which cruise line do I want to sail on?” and “how long can I be gone from work before my boss notices my desk is being occupied by the blowup doll I ordered solely for this worthy purpose and not for anything unsavory,” there are some additional questions you’ll need to ask yourself first before booking a solo cruise:

• Do I want to book as part of a hosted singles cruise?  
• Do I want to book a studio cabin intended for solo cruisers?
• Do I want to book a standard double occupancy cabin and go it on my own?

Let’s discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Hosted Singles Cruises

Hosted singles cruises are organized by and booked through outside travel agencies and not individual cruise lines.  They are a good option to consider if you’re traveling single and looking for structured opportunities to meet people and socialize.  A dedicated host for the singles group will travel on the cruise with you and facilitate special activities, cocktail parties, meals, and excursions.

Benefits of Hosted Singles Cruises

• Dedicated host .
• Roommate matching services.   If you’d like to save on cost by sharing a cabin with a same-gender roommate, most agencies that offer singles cruises will provide a free matching service if you book a singles cruise through them.
• Special activities not available to those who didn’t book with the singles group.
• Organized meals where you’ll be seated with other singles.
• Pre-cruise communication with fellow single cruisers (usually via a message board or Facebook group), so you can begin acquainting yourself with others prior to your sailing.

Drawbacks of Hosted Singles Cruises

• Cost.   Because additional resources and services are offered, you will pay more for a hosted singles cruise.
• Limited itineraries offered. If you’re committed to a hosted singles cruise, your options will be very limited in terms of dates, itineraries, and ships.

How to Book a Hosted Singles Cruise

The two best known agencies offering hosted singles cruises are SinglesCruise.com and Vacations To Go . They are comparable in terms of cost and services offered, so my recommendation is to check into both of them and compare dates, itineraries, and ships to find the cruise that works best for you.

Both companies offer some sailings geared toward a particular age range, so if you’re in your 40’s and looking for a younger man who can keep up with your rigorous cruising schedule (me again), you’ll want to book a 20’s and 30’s group.

If you like the thought of organized activities for single/solo cruisers, but don’t want to share a cabin, don’t want to pay so much more for a hosted singles cruise, or want more flexibility, you might consider booking a studio cabin intended for solo cruisers.

Studio Cabins for Solo Cruisers

Cruise companies are finally starting to recognize solo cruisers as an important stakeholder and source of revenue and, as such, many lines now offer studio or solo cabins designed for solo/single cruisers. Some even offer special lounges exclusively for those staying in solo cabins.

The list below includes the number of studio or solo cabins currently offered by cruise line and ship. If you don’t see a ship listed, it doesn’t currently have singles cabins.

Carnival Cruise Line Solo Cabins

Carnival does not currently offer solo cabins on their ships. However, the line will be unveiling new ships soon, so stay tuned to see if this changes.

Celebrity Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Celebrity Apex: 24 solo cabins
• Celebrity Ascent: 16 solo cabins
• Celebrity Beyond: 32 solo cabins
• Celebrity Edge: 16 solo cabins
• Celebrity Silhouette: 4 solo cabins

Costa Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Costa Diadema: 21 solo cabins
• Costa Fascinosa: 17 solo cabins
• Costa Favolosa: 17 solo cabins
• Costa Fortuna: 14 solo cabins
• Costa Magica: 14 solo cabins
• Costa neoRomantica: 6 solo cabins
• Costa Pacifica: 17 solo cabins
• Costa Serena: 17 solo cabins

Cunard Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Cunard Queen Elizabeth: 9 solo cabins
• Cunard Queen Mary 2: 15 solo cabins
• Cunard Queen Victoria: 9 solo cabins

Disney Cruise Line Solo Cabins

There are not currently any studio or solo cabins on Disney ships.

Fred Olsen Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Fred Olsen Balmoral: 64 solo cabins
• Fred Olsen Black Watch: 43 solo cabins
• Fred Olsen Bolette: 52 solo cabins
• Fred Olsen Boudicca: 43 solo cabins
• Fred Olsen Braemar: 40 solo cabins

Holland America Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Holland America Koningsdam: 12 solo cabins
• Holland America Nieuw Statendam: 12 solo cabins
• Holland America Prinsendam: 3 solo cabins
• Holland America Rotterdam: 12 solo cabins

MSC Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• MSC Bellissima: 32 solo cabins
• MSC Grandiosa: 15 solo cabins
• MSC Meraviglia: 32 solo cabins
• MSC Virtuosa: 15 solo cabins
• MSC World Europa: 22 solo cabins

Norwegian Cruise Line Solo Cabins (NCL)

• Norwegian Bliss: 82 solo cabins
• Norwegian Breakaway: 59 solo cabins
• Norwegian Encore: 82 solo cabins
• Norwegian Epic: 128 solo cabins
• Norwegian Escape: 82 solo cabins
• Norwegian Getaway: 59 solo cabins
• Norwegian Pride of America: 4 solo cabins
• Norwegian Prima: 73 solo cabins
• Norwegian Viva: 73 solo cabins

Oceania Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Insignia: 14 solo cabins
• Nautica: 14 solo cabins
• Regatta: 14 solo cabins
• Sirena: 14 solo cabins
• Vista: 6 solo cabins

P&O Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• P&O Arcadia: 6 solo cabins
• P&O Arvia: 32 solo cabins
• P&O Aurora: 4 solo cabins
• P&O Azura: 18 solo cabins
• P&O Britannia: 27 solo cabins
• P&O Oriana: 2 solo cabins
• P&O Ventura: 18 solo cabins

Princess Cruise Line Solo Cabins

Princess does not currently offer solo cabins, but this can change. Keep asking for them and stay tuned. Princess does sometimes offer a very low solo supplement for a regular cabin. I booked a recent solo cruise on Princess with only a 9% solo supplement which ended up being the lowest solo fare I could find on any line during the week I wanted to cruise.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Solo Cabins

• Adventure of the Seas: 5 solo cabins
• Anthem of the Seas: 26 solo cabins
• Brilliance of the Seas: 3 solo cabins
• Harmony of the Seas: 15 solo cabins
• Jewel of the Seas: 3 solo cabins
• Mariner of the Seas: 2 solo cabins
• Odyssey of the Seas: 12 solo cabins
• Ovation of the Seas: 28 solo cabins
• Quantum of the Seas: 28 solo cabins
• Radiance of the Seas: 3 solo cabins
• Serenade of the Seas: 3 solo cabins
• Spectrum of the Seas: 28 solo cabins

Virgin Voyages Solo Cabins

• Resilient Lady: 46 solo cabins
• Scarlet Lady: 46 solo cabins
• Valiant Lady: 46 solo cabins

Benefits of Booking a Studio or Solo Cabin

• Studio Lounge. On some ships, if you book a studio cabin, there’s a special lounge designated only for those in studios.
• Studio host. Sometimes there’s even a host who will organize meals and activities.
• Privacy. No flashbacks about your grad-school roommate from hell (that would have been me – sorry Maria).
• This is a good alternative to a hosted singles cruise as it will be less expensive and may offer some of the same benefits.

Drawbacks of Booking a Studio or Solo Cabin

• Limited availability . Because there are relatively few of them, they tend to book up fast. You might have to sit at your computer three days in advance of their release hitting the refresh button on repeat – like I do when Olive Garden’s Never Ending Pasta Pass goes on sale each year – to snag one.
• Tiny room . Solo rooms are generally very “cozy.” While they would be the perfect spot to hibernate for the winter, waking only for meals and the occasional game of trivia to keep your mind sharp, if you’re claustrophobic, pack an extra suitcase of shoes, or like to start your morning with a square dance routine in your skivvies to get your blood flowing and bowels loosened, you might find them stifling.
• Studio/solo cabins aren’t always less expensive than just booking a standard room and paying the solo supplement (more on that coming). Always compare options to make sure you’re getting the best price for the experience you’re looking for.

Booking a Standard Double Occupancy Cabin as a Solo Cruiser

Due to pesky family obligations, I require a good deal of flexibility when booking a solo cruise, so this is the option I normally go with. As a single, you can book and pay for a standard double occupancy room all for your lonesome, or in my case, for sweet serenity.

Benefits of Booking a Standard Double Occupancy Cabin as a Solo Cruiser

• You get a big bed all to yourself! You can sleep vertically across the large queen or king-sized bed. This offers no advantage in terms of comfort – it’s just fun to do. Because you can! But before you settle in, jump up and down a few times to test out the springs, then declare, “hope you’re enjoying picking Play-Doh out of the carpet, sucker” in reference to Mr. Cruise who is holding down the fort at home, before perfectly sticking your dismount and cheering loudly for yourself.
• You can do your own thing. There will still be lots of opportunities to socialize and meet people if you choose, but you’re under no obligation and can do exactly what you want. Which for me means ordering every room service dessert at 4am.
• No awkward encounters with a roommate. No need to warn your cabin-mate, “might want to stay out of the bathroom,” about the biohazard resulting from the extra desserts. Instead you can loudly declare, “it’s a plunger job!” and check another #cruisegoal off your list.
• No one will know how weird you are. See above.

Drawbacks of Booking a Standard Double Occupancy Cabin as a Solo Cruiser

• You won’t be part of an organized singles group. While most lines do offer at least one informal “solos meet-up” event during the sailing, you’ll miss out on the other benefits of being part of a designated singles group such as being paired up with other solos for meals.
• The solo supplement. You’ll likely have to face a monster more terrifying than Godzilla: The Solo Supplement.

What is the Solo Supplement?

Because cruise lines are in the business of maximizing profits, they want to fill ships with as many passengers as possible at the maximum fare the market will bear. As most cabins hold at least two passengers, when cruise lines set the per person price for a two person cabin, they do so with the understanding that they will receive double that fare for that room. So if a double occupancy cabin is listed at $600 per person, the cruise line expects to receive $1200.

If a solo traveler booked the same room – a room that could have been booked by two people – for the same per person rate of $600, the line would miss out on the second $600. Instead, the solo traveler is almost always expected to pay the full $1200 for the room. The extra $600 is referred to as the “solo supplement.”

However, having one person in a $1200 room paying $600 or $800 is preferable to having the room sail vacant, which brings me to my tips for minimizing or avoiding the solo supplement.

Tips for Avoiding the Solo Supplement

Thankfully, my breath is more atomic than even a gorilla-whale who emerges from the Pacific Ocean to destroy major urban areas, so I have some tips for how to battle The Solo Supplement.

First, be flexible and consider booking last minute if possible. If there are lots of unsold rooms as the sailing date approaches, lines will sometimes lower or drop the supplement in order to fill every cabin.

Second, plan to sail during shoulder seasons or other less popular times of the year. The cruise lines would rather have one person paying to occupy a room than no one at all, so if a particular itinerary isn’t anticipated to sell well they will sometimes lower or completely drop the solo supplement. I’ve noticed this more for sailings the first two weeks of December, the first two weeks of January and in either May or September for cruises to Alaska.

Similarly, consider either really short or really long sailings as there tends to be less demand for them.

Third, go here for a handy, easy to read list of current sailings with either a low or no solo supplement. Check back regularly and be ready to jump at a good opportunity – it will sell out fast. It also helps to have a good travel agent who can also be on the lookout for you.

And finally, even if you do end up having to pay the solo supplement, consider a less expensive cabin category such as an inside. Or book a cheaper guarantee cabin, meaning you’re guaranteed a certain category of cabin (inside, ocean view, or balcony), but the cruise line selects the specific cabin within that category. Look for bargains!

You can see my complete guide to getting the best deal on a cruise HERE .

Now that we’ve covered the why and how of solo cruising, let’s move on to some tips for maximizing your onboard experience. I’ve divided these into, “tips for extroverted solo cruisers” or those looking to socialize and paaaaaaartay and “tips for introverted solo cruisers” or those looking for time to read something other than, “ Walter the Farting Dog ,” which you’ve read to your kid on repeat for the past six months because it Never. Stops. Being. Funny.

The following was my reading material on my last solo cruise, but to each his (or her) own:

Tips for Extroverted Solo Cruisers

• Consider a hosted singles cruise or booking a studio cabin with a singles lounge and host. These will offer more opportunity to interact with other single/solos.
• Prior to your sailing, join your roll call group on Cruise Critic or on Facebook (search for your ship, then select “groups” to see if there’s one for your cruise – if not, you can start one!). Roll call groups allow those on a particular sailing to get to know each other and organize activities in advance.
• Eat dinner in the main dining room as opposed to the buffet or specialty restaurants. Consider a set dining time (as opposed to “anytime dining”) if you want to sit at a table with the same people every night. This may offer a better chance to make close friends. If you’re not on a hosted singles cruise or in a studio with a singles host who has arranged your dining, be sure to stop by and speak with the maître d’ on embarkation day to make sure you’re seated at a table with other singles/solos. If you’d rather meet lots of different people, consider “anytime dining,” where you show up to eat anytime during dinner hours. When you arrive, request to be seated with other singles/solos. Once you make friends, you can arrange to meet at a specified time for dinner and request to be seated together.

• Attend the ship’s solo meet and greet and any organized roll call events . Every cruise I’ve been on has had at least one solo/singles event. And generally roll calls will have a meet and greet and other activities such as slot pulls or cabin crawls. These are all a great way to meet people and make friends.

• Book ship excursions . If you book through the ship, you’ll be with a larger group of people, and more likely to meet other singles to hang out with. If you book a private excursion, you’ll likely be with a much smaller group. This can be fine unless you’re stuck with, like, a honeymooning couple only interested in the sights of each other or a family who intentionally didn’t invite their eccentric aunt and is not interested in you as a stand-in.

• Hang out at the bar. I know, it’s 2023 and no one meets face-to-face anymore. It’s awkward and your avatar has much better legs. But you might just find someone who loves fru fru martinis and MTV as much as you do. Or you’ll get drunk by yourself and feel even more alone. But let’s remain optimistic!

• Participate in interactive ship activities. Hit up trivia, a book club, or a group fitness class. And remember, the other participants at Zumba aren’t laughing with you, they’re laughing at you.

Tips for Introverted Solo Cruisers

• Avoid eye contact at embarkation. Or risk getting stuck with Prof. Cruise for the next seven days. See my latest victim below:

• Request a private table for one in the dining room. If you have a set dining time, be sure to meet with the maître d’ on embarkation day to request a private table , otherwise you will probably be seated with others. If you have anytime dining, just show up and ask for a table for one. I prefer “anytime dining” when I sail solo so I have the most flexibility. When I’m too tired from reading all day to brush my teeth, I can request a private table and when I want to brag about my casino win, I can dine with others.
• Explore ports on your own. If you don’t like crowds, you’ll probably want to avoid most ship excursions. Prior to sailing, research things to do in port so you can venture out safely on your own. I hear Prof. Cruise has some very helpful port posts (#shamefulpromotion).

• Purchase an internet plan so you won’t be stuck playing on your phone’s calculator as an attempt to avoid social interaction, “if I weighed 146 pounds at embarkation, how much will I weigh after 23 pounds of dessert and cheese?”

• Chose non-interactive ship activities. Attend an enrichment lecture, see a production show, or watch a movie under the stars. There are plenty of activities for singles not looking to mingle.

• Order room service. If you work with the public in some capacity back on land and are rightfully surly and going solo to avoid “entitled idiots,” you’ll want to steer clear of all elevators and anything that requires standing in line. In fact, consider taking advantage of 24/7 room service and never leaving your cabin at all.

Resources for Solo Cruisers

If you’ve found this guide mildly offensive, too wordy, and decidedly unhelpful or if you have questions about a specific line or cruise or just want to network with other experienced solo/single cruisers, I’d suggest the solo cruisers board on Cruise Critic or one of the many Facebook groups dedicated to solos. I also encourage you to share your tips for sailing solo in the comments below so I can steal them. I mean, so we can learn from each other! Feel free to also share this guide with any groups you already participate in.

Final Thoughts on Solo Cruising

Go. Bravely venture out on your own for the first time after the loss of your beloved spouse and cruising partner. Go. Cruise solo hoping to meet a spouse and cruising partner. Go. To a destination on your bucket that your wife refuses to visit because it dips below 70 degrees at night. Go. Hide your cruise addiction by sailing alone and calling it a “work trip?” Sure. Go. Because your kid was up all night ralfing and your husband who slept through the whole thing is particularly susceptible to guilt. Go! Now!

Whatever your reason for sailing solo, go.

And with that…

Class Dismissed.

Homework (10 points): Review my guide to getting the best deal on a cruise and my 20 tips for saving money on a cruise ship.

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Cool article, it sounds like it’d be fun for me to cruise by myself! But actually, I like having my wife with me, she’s nice to look at 🙂 Great resource for solo cabins with no surcharge, with many of them booking into “regular” rooms. If there’s no surcharge (and the cost would be the same whether it’s single or double occupancy) could my wife and I each book a room but stay in one of them together? Then we can use the other room like a closet, or to have tea parties with other guests or whatever! Thanks

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• Solo Travel for Women: The Best Places and Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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