Cruising alone is one of the easiest ways to travel solo. Your meals, entertainment and transport are taken care of, and there are plenty of chances to meet people, or to enjoy a book on your balcony in peace. The one catch is price: most cabins are designed for two. Here is how to find a solo cruise that feels social, safe and fairly priced in 2027.
- Look for: studio or single cabins, reduced single supplements.
- Best lines: Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Virgin Voyages, Holland America.
- Book: early, because solo cabins are limited.
How single supplements work
Cruise fares are priced per person based on two people sharing a cabin. When you book a standard cabin alone, the line charges a single supplement to cover the empty bed. It can be anything from a small premium to the full second fare.
| Option | Typical cost for one | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard cabin, full supplement | About 200% of a per-person fare | Most common on popular dates |
| Standard cabin, reduced supplement promo | About 110-150% | Watch for solo offers in shoulder seasons |
| Studio / single cabin | Often lower overall | Small, limited number, sells out fast |
Best cruise lines for solo travelers
Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered studio cabins with access to a private studio lounge on several ships, a great place to meet other solo travelers. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer single cabins on some ships. Virgin Voyages is adults only with a social atmosphere and no traditional set dining. For a full comparison see the best cruise lines and our guide to adults-only cruises.
Solo cruises for seniors over 60 and 70
Holland America, Princess and Viking attract many mature travelers. Look for hosted singles events, daytime talks, classes and accessible excursions. River cruises in Europe are also popular with older solo travelers because the ships are small and tours are included. Short first trips are a good test; our first-time cruise tips help you prepare.
How to meet people on a solo cruise
- Join your sailing's online roll call before departure.
- Look for the solo travelers' meetup in the daily program.
- Choose shared tables at dinner rather than a table for one.
- Sign up for trivia, dance classes and small-group excursions.
- Sit at the bar or in lounges before shows; conversation comes easily.
How to save on a solo cruise
- Book studio cabins as soon as itineraries open.
- Travel in shoulder seasons when solo promotions are common; check cheap cruise deals.
- Consider an inside cabin; you will spend little time there.
- Spread payments; see cruise payment plans.
- Protect your trip with cruise insurance, especially for medical cover when traveling alone.
Planning a solo cruise?
We can search studio cabins and low single-supplement offers for you.
📞 Call 1-888-229-6801Frequently Asked Questions
Do solo travelers pay double on cruises?
Often they pay a single supplement, which can range from about 10% to 100% of the second guest's fare. Studio cabins and promotions with reduced or waived supplements lower the cost.
Which cruise lines are best for solo travelers?
Norwegian is a favorite thanks to its studio cabins and studio lounge on several ships. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity also have single cabins on some ships, and Virgin Voyages is popular with solo adults.
Are solo cruises good for seniors over 60?
Yes. Lines like Holland America, Princess and Viking are popular with mature solo travelers, offer daytime enrichment and have welcoming hosted events for singles.
How do I meet people on a solo cruise?
Join the solo travelers' meetup (often listed as a 'solo cruisers' get-together' on day one), choose shared table dining, sign up for group excursions and trivia, and join online roll calls before you sail.
Is it safe to cruise alone?
Cruises are generally a safe way to travel solo. Use common sense: lock your cabin, watch your drinks, stay with organized groups in unfamiliar ports and share your itinerary with someone at home.
Talk to a cruise expert
Questions about sailings, cabins, prices or documents? Call us for help comparing options.
📞 Call 1-888-229-6801Prices, itineraries, fees and policies change often and vary by cruise line, ship and sailing date. Always confirm current details with your cruise line or booking agent before you pay. Last reviewed: October 2026.