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Over 30 major cruise lines now offer dedicated solo traveler rates in 2024, a significant rise from previous years, reflecting growing demand for single-occupancy cruising. From luxury lines like Regent and Silversea to budget-friendly options like Carnival and Norwegian, more brands are eliminating or reducing single supplements, making solo adventures more accessible than ever.
Key Takeaways
- Over 30 cruise lines now offer dedicated solo traveler rates in 2024.
- Book early to secure limited solo cabins and avoid waitlists.
- Compare single supplements as some lines waive them entirely.
- Look for solo-friendly ships with shared cabins to cut costs.
- Loyalty programs help frequent solo cruisers earn perks faster.
- Newer lines lead with innovative solo pricing and social spaces.
- Check for hidden fees like port charges that may inflate solo fares.
📑 Table of Contents
- How Many Cruise Lines Offer Solo Traveler Rates in 2024?
- The Rise of Solo Traveler Rates: Why Now?
- Which Cruise Lines Offer Solo Traveler Rates in 2024?
- How to Choose the Right Solo-Friendly Cruise
- Hidden Costs and Pitfalls to Avoid
- 2024 Solo Traveler Rates: A Quick Comparison
- The Future of Solo Traveler Rates: What’s Next?
How Many Cruise Lines Offer Solo Traveler Rates in 2024?
Let’s be honest: cruising as a solo traveler used to feel like showing up to a dinner party where everyone else already knows each other. You’re excited, but you’re also bracing for awkward small talk and the dreaded “Are you here alone?” question. But here’s the good news—times are changing. In 2024, the cruise industry is finally waking up to the fact that solo travelers are a massive, underserved market. And that means more options, better deals, and fewer awkward moments at the onboard buffet.
So, how many cruise lines actually offer solo traveler rates this year? The short answer: more than ever before. From budget-friendly deals to luxury escapes, cruise lines are rolling out dedicated solo cabins, waiving single supplements, and creating social spaces just for solo guests. But it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned solo cruiser or dipping your toes into the world of solo travel for the first time, this guide will walk you through which lines are leading the charge, what to look for in a solo-friendly cruise, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
The Rise of Solo Traveler Rates: Why Now?
A Growing Market with Real Demand
Solo travel isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle shift. According to a 2023 report by Statista, over 25% of global travelers now take trips alone, up from just 14% a decade ago. And cruise lines are taking notice. The pandemic played a role, too. Many people reevaluated their priorities, realizing they didn’t want to wait for friends or family to be “ready” to travel. They just wanted to go.
But here’s the catch: for years, solo cruisers were penalized with the dreaded single supplement. This fee, often 150–200% of the base fare, meant paying for a double-occupancy room all by yourself. It felt unfair, and it turned many solo travelers off cruising altogether. Now, lines are ditching that model—or at least offering alternatives—because they’ve realized solo travelers spend more on excursions, drinks, and onboard activities. They’re not just a niche; they’re a goldmine.
What Changed in the Last 5 Years?
The turning point came around 2019–2020, when a few forward-thinking lines—like Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages—started building ships with solo cabins. These weren’t just tiny rooms; they were thoughtfully designed, often with larger bathrooms, better views, and access to exclusive lounges. The message was clear: We see you, solo travelers, and we want you here.
Since then, the competition has heated up. Even traditional lines like Royal Caribbean and Holland America have introduced solo-friendly options. And in 2024, the number of lines offering solo traveler rates has nearly doubled compared to 2018. It’s no longer about whether a line offers solo deals—it’s about how good those deals are.
Which Cruise Lines Offer Solo Traveler Rates in 2024?
1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Pioneer
NCL was one of the first major lines to go all-in on solo travelers. Their Studio Cabins, introduced on ships like the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss, are a game-changer. These compact but cleverly designed rooms come with:
- Queen-sized beds with extra storage
- Access to a private Studio Lounge with free drinks and snacks
- No single supplement (yes, you read that right)
- Keycard-only access for privacy
The Studio Lounge is where the magic happens. It’s a quiet, social space where solo guests can meet, relax, or join organized events like trivia nights. NCL also offers a “solo traveler concierge” on some ships to help with dining reservations and activity planning.
Tip: Book early—Studio Cabins sell out fast, especially on popular itineraries.
2. Virgin Voyages: The Cool Kid on the Block
Virgin Voyages is all about breaking the mold, and their solo traveler approach is no exception. All rooms are priced per person, so there’s never a single supplement. But what really sets Virgin apart is their “Solo Sailor” program. Here’s what you get:
- Dedicated solo cabins (called “Solo Insider” and “Solo Sea View”)
- Exclusive meetups and mixers
- Priority access to popular shows and restaurants
- A “Solo Sailor” wristband for easy recognition (if you want it)
Virgin’s ships, like the Scarlet Lady, are designed with socializing in mind. The “Sailor Lounge” is a vibrant hub with games, music, and free coffee. And because Virgin doesn’t allow kids, the vibe is adult-only—perfect for solo travelers who want to unwind.
Caveat: Virgin’s solo cabins are smaller than NCL’s, so if you prioritize space, NCL might be better.
3. Royal Caribbean: The Big Player Steps Up
Royal Caribbean was slow to adopt solo traveler rates, but in 2023–2024, they’ve made big moves. Their “Solo Ocean View” cabins on ships like Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas are priced at just 125–150% of the double-occupancy fare—a massive improvement over the old 200% supplement.
Royal also offers:
- “Solo Traveler Mixers” on most sailings
- Access to the “Solo Lounge” (on select ships)
- Specialty dining packages at a discount for solo guests
The catch? These cabins are limited, and the perks aren’t as robust as NCL or Virgin. But for a mainstream line, it’s a solid start.
4. Holland America Line: The Quiet Contender
Holland America isn’t known for flashy solo deals, but they’ve quietly become a favorite among older solo travelers. Their “Solo Traveler Program” includes:
- Waived single supplement on select sailings (usually 10–20% off)
- “Solo Traveler” meetups in the Crow’s Nest lounge
- Priority boarding for solo guests
The cabins aren’t dedicated solo rooms, but they’re well-designed and often in quieter areas of the ship. And the vibe is relaxed—no loud parties, just good conversation and great food.
Tip: Holland America’s longer itineraries (10+ days) are ideal for solo travelers who want to make lasting connections.
5. Smaller Lines: Azamara, Regent, and More
Smaller luxury lines like Azamara and Regent Seven Seas are also joining the solo party. Azamara offers a “Solo Traveler Rate” on most sailings—usually 125–150% of the double fare—and hosts “solo mixers” with free drinks. Regent goes even further: their “Solo Suites” on the Seven Seas Grandeur are spacious, elegant, and come with a 10% discount for solo guests.
Other notable mentions:
- Crystal Cruises: Waived single supplement on select sailings
- Oceania Cruises: Solo rates as low as 115% of double fare
- Silversea: Dedicated solo cabins on new ships
How to Choose the Right Solo-Friendly Cruise
1. Know What You’re Paying For
Not all “solo traveler rates” are created equal. Some lines waive the single supplement entirely (like Virgin Voyages), while others offer a reduced supplement (like Royal Caribbean’s 125% rate). Always ask: Is this a true solo cabin, or am I just paying less for a regular room?
Example: A 14-day cruise with a base fare of $2,000:
- Virgin Voyages: $2,000 (no supplement)
- Royal Caribbean: $2,500 (125% supplement)
- Old-school line: $4,000 (200% supplement)
The difference adds up fast.
2. Look for Social Perks
The best solo-friendly cruises don’t just save you money—they help you connect. Ask about:
- Are there dedicated solo lounges or meetups?
- Is there a solo traveler concierge?
- Are there group excursions or dining options for solo guests?
NCL’s Studio Lounge and Virgin’s mixers are great examples. But if a line just says “we have solo rates,” dig deeper. You might end up eating alone every night.
3. Consider the Itinerary
Not all destinations are equally solo-friendly. For example:
- Caribbean: Great for first-time solo cruisers—lots of beaches, easy excursions, and a relaxed vibe.
- Alaska: Perfect for nature lovers, but some ports have limited activities.
- Europe: More cultural, but some cities can feel overwhelming alone.
Talk to a travel agent or read reviews from other solo travelers to find the right fit.
Hidden Costs and Pitfalls to Avoid
The “Solo Tax” Isn’t Always Obvious
Some lines advertise “no single supplement” but sneak in extra fees. For example:
- Gratuities: These are often charged per person, so solo travelers pay the same as couples.
- Port taxes: Usually the same for everyone, but check.
- Excursions: Some tours require a minimum number of people, and solo travelers might pay more if the group is small.
Always read the fine print. A “solo deal” that seems cheap upfront might end up costing more.
Cabins: Size Matters (More Than You Think)
Solo cabins are often smaller—sometimes much smaller. Virgin’s “Solo Insider” room is just 85 sq. ft., while NCL’s Studio is 100 sq. ft. Compare that to a standard interior room (150–200 sq. ft.), and you’ll see the difference.
Tip: If you’re claustrophobic or plan to spend a lot of time in your cabin, prioritize space over perks.
Socializing Isn’t Guaranteed
Even with mixers and lounges, you might not click with other solo travelers. And if you’re shy, the pressure to “make friends” can be stressful. Some tips:
- Join smaller group activities (cooking classes, wine tastings) instead of big events.
- Use the solo lounge as a quiet retreat, not a party zone.
- Don’t feel obligated to socialize every day—solo travel is about your experience.
2024 Solo Traveler Rates: A Quick Comparison
| Cruise Line | Solo Rate | Dedicated Cabins? | Social Perks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwegian Cruise Line | No supplement | Yes (Studio) | Studio Lounge, concierge | First-time solo cruisers |
| Virgin Voyages | No supplement | Yes (Solo Insider/Sea View) | Mixers, wristband | Younger, social travelers |
| Royal Caribbean | 125–150% supplement | Yes (Solo Ocean View) | Mixers, Solo Lounge | Families (but solo-friendly) |
| Holland America | 10–20% off supplement | No | Meetups, priority boarding | Older, relaxed travelers |
| Azamara | 125–150% supplement | No | Mixers, free drinks | Luxury, longer itineraries |
The Future of Solo Traveler Rates: What’s Next?
More Lines, More Options
By 2025, expect even more lines to jump on the solo bandwagon. Carnival Cruise Line is rumored to be testing solo cabins on new ships, and Princess Cruises has hinted at a “solo traveler initiative” for 2024. The competition will drive innovation—think better cabins, more social events, and even solo-focused itineraries.
Technology Will Play a Bigger Role
Imagine an app that matches you with other solo travelers for dinner or excursions. Or a chatbot that helps you plan your solo cruise. Some lines are already experimenting with these tools, and they’ll become standard in the next few years.
The Bottom Line: Solo Travel Is Here to Stay
The days of solo travelers being an afterthought are over. In 2024, the cruise industry is finally catching up to the demand—and the results are amazing. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly escape or a luxury retreat, there’s a solo-friendly option out there for you.
So pack your bags, grab your passport, and set sail. The open sea is waiting—and this time, you don’t need a plus-one to enjoy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cruise lines offer solo traveler rates in 2024?
As of 2024, over 25 major cruise lines provide dedicated solo traveler rates or reduced single supplements, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival. The exact number fluctuates as new policies emerge and smaller lines adapt to growing solo travel demand.
Which cruise lines offer the best deals for solo travelers?
Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, and Holland America are top choices due to their frequent solo cabins and waived single supplements. Many lines now feature “solo traveler rates” to attract independent explorers seeking affordability and social opportunities.
Do all cruise lines charge a single supplement for solo travelers?
No, not all cruise lines charge a full single supplement—many now offer solo traveler rates or dedicated cabins to avoid extra fees. However, some luxury and premium lines may still apply higher supplements unless promotions are available.
Are solo traveler rates available on river cruises?
Yes, several river cruise lines like AmaWaterways and Viking offer solo traveler rates or reduced supplements on select sailings. These are often limited, so booking early is key to securing these deals.
How can I find cruise lines with no single supplement?
Check promotions from lines like Norwegian, Oceania, and Azamara, which occasionally waive single supplements. Third-party travel sites and solo traveler forums also highlight “no solo traveler rates” deals for specific dates.
Do solo traveler rates include cabin upgrades?
Some cruise lines, such as Princess and Celebrity, may include perks like balcony upgrades or onboard credits with solo traveler rates. Always review the terms, as inclusions vary by sailing and availability.