What Cruise Lines Have Single Cabins for Solo Travelers

Several major cruise lines now offer dedicated single cabins, making solo travel more affordable and comfortable. Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Line lead the pack with spacious, well-designed solo staterooms that eliminate or reduce single supplements. These cabins cater to independent travelers seeking privacy and value without the usual solo surcharges.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers dedicated Studio cabins for solo travelers with exclusive lounge access.
• Royal Caribbean: Features Interior Solo and balcony cabins on select ships for solo cruisers.
• Celebrity Cruises: Provides solo cabins with access to the Retreat suite-only sundeck.
• Virgin Voyages: No single supplements—book solo cabins at standard rates on all ships.
• Holland America: Offers limited solo cabins; book early to secure availability.
• MSC Cruises: Solo cabins available with no extra fees on select sailings and ships.

Why Solo Travelers Should Consider Cruising with Single Cabins

For decades, solo travelers have faced a frustrating dilemma when it comes to cruising: pay an exorbitant single supplement fee—often equal to 100% or more of the base fare—or risk being paired with a stranger in a shared cabin. But times are changing. As the popularity of solo travel surges, cruise lines are responding with a growing number of dedicated single cabins designed specifically for travelers who want their own space without the financial penalty. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time adventurer, the rise of solo-friendly cabins is a game-changer, making cruising more accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for individuals traveling alone.

Today, over 20% of cruise passengers identify as solo travelers, according to industry reports, and this number is expected to grow. Cruise lines are recognizing this shift and investing in innovative cabin designs, social programming, and pricing models to attract this demographic. From compact yet stylish solo cabins to exclusive lounges and curated events, the modern cruise experience for singles is more inviting than ever. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines have single cabins, what makes them unique, and how to get the most value out of your solo cruise adventure.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Dedicated Single Cabins

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – The Pioneer in Solo Travel

Norwegian Cruise Line is widely regarded as the trailblazer in the solo cabin movement. Starting with the Norwegian Epic in 2010, NCL introduced the Studio Cabins, a groundbreaking concept designed specifically for solo travelers. These compact, 100-square-foot cabins feature full-sized beds, private bathrooms, and access to a Studio Lounge—an exclusive social space where solo cruisers can relax, meet others, and enjoy complimentary snacks, drinks, and entertainment.

Today, the Studio concept is available on multiple NCL ships, including the Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, and the newer Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. The cabins are located on a dedicated deck, fostering a sense of community. Pricing is transparent: there’s no single supplement, and fares are often comparable to double occupancy rates per person. For example, a 7-night Caribbean cruise on the Norwegian Encore might cost $1,200–$1,500 for a Studio cabin, whereas a traditional cabin with a single supplement could exceed $2,400.

Pro Tip: Book early! Studio cabins sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Join NCL’s Solo Cruisers Facebook Group to connect with fellow solo travelers and get insider tips.

Royal Caribbean International – Modern Solo Cabins on Select Ships

Royal Caribbean entered the solo cabin market in 2018 with the launch of the Symphony of the Seas, introducing Solo Interior and Solo Ocean View cabins. These cabins are slightly larger than NCL’s Studio cabins, ranging from 120 to 140 square feet, and feature floor-to-ceiling windows or portholes. While they don’t have a dedicated solo lounge, Royal Caribbean offers a robust lineup of solo-friendly activities, including mixers, trivia nights, and guided excursions designed for individuals.

The Odyssey of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas also feature solo cabins, and Royal Caribbean has announced plans to expand the offering to future vessels. One standout feature is the “Solo Traveler Meet-Up” events, hosted by cruise staff, which help break the ice and encourage social connections. Pricing is competitive, with solo cabins often priced 20–30% lower than a double-occupancy cabin with a single supplement.

Insider Insight: Royal Caribbean’s My Time Dining option allows solo travelers to dine with rotating tables, making it easier to meet new people. Opt for this instead of traditional fixed seating if you’re looking to socialize.

Virgin Voyages – Adults-Only, Stylish Solo Staterooms

Virgin Voyages, the adults-only cruise line launched by Sir Richard Branson, has redefined solo travel with its Sea View Solo and Insider Solo cabins. These cabins are part of the line’s “Scarlet Lady” and “Valiant Lady” ships, which cater exclusively to passengers 18 and older. The cabins are sleek, modern, and feature high-tech amenities like mood lighting, app-controlled room settings, and rainfall showers.

What sets Virgin apart is its no-tipping policy, all-inclusive dining (no extra fees for specialty restaurants), and vibrant onboard entertainment—perfect for solo travelers who want a luxurious, hassle-free experience. The cabins are priced without a single supplement, making them a great value. For instance, a 5-night Mediterranean cruise might cost $1,800 for a Sea View Solo cabin, compared to $3,200+ for a traditional suite with a supplement.

Bonus Perk: Virgin’s “Sailors” (passengers) can join the “Solo Sailors” Facebook group for pre-cruise meetups and onboard event coordination.

Emerging Players: Cruise Lines Adding Solo Cabins

Celebrity Cruises – The Edge Series Revolution

Celebrity Cruises has made significant strides in the solo cabin market with its Edge-class ships (e.g., Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond). These vessels feature Solo Staterooms in interior, ocean view, and balcony categories. The cabins are thoughtfully designed with full-sized beds, modern bathrooms, and access to a Solo Lounge—a cozy space with complimentary coffee, snacks, and board games.

What’s unique about Celebrity’s approach is its “Celebrity Connect” program, which uses a mobile app to match solo travelers with similar interests for dining, shore excursions, and onboard activities. The cabins are priced with a reduced single supplement (typically 10–20% of the base fare), making them more affordable than traditional options. For example, a 7-night Alaska cruise might cost $2,100 for a solo balcony cabin, versus $3,500+ with a full supplement.

Pro Tip: Book through a travel agent who specializes in solo travel—they can often negotiate lower rates or free upgrades.

Princess Cruises – Solo Cabins with a Touch of Class

Princess Cruises introduced Solo Cabins on the Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, with plans to expand to more ships. These cabins are slightly larger (130–150 sq ft) and feature balconies, a rare luxury for solo travelers. The cabins are located near the Solo Lounge, which offers complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi, and daily social events like wine tastings and trivia.

Princess also offers a “Solo Traveler Program” with dedicated meet-and-greets, group excursions, and dining arrangements. Pricing is competitive, with a 25–40% single supplement reduction compared to standard cabins. For a 10-night Europe cruise, a solo balcony cabin might cost $2,800, versus $4,200+ with a full supplement.

Insider Insight: Princess’s “MedallionClass” technology allows solo travelers to easily join group activities or order room service with a tap of a wearable device.

Cunard Line – Traditional Elegance Meets Solo Innovation

While Cunard is known for its classic British luxury, the line has embraced solo travel with Solo Balcony and Solo Inside cabins on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth. These cabins are elegantly appointed with high-end furnishings and access to a Solo Lounge with afternoon tea and evening cocktails.

Cunard’s “Solo Traveler Evenings” include themed dinners, lectures, and dance lessons, creating a refined yet social atmosphere. The cabins are priced with a reduced supplement (15–25%), and Cunard often offers promotions like “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” for solo travelers booking back-to-back voyages.

Bonus Tip: Cunard’s transatlantic crossings are ideal for solo travelers seeking a slower-paced, intellectually stimulating journey.

What to Look for in a Solo-Friendly Cruise

Cabin Size and Amenities

When choosing a solo cabin, size matters—but so does layout. Look for cabins with full-sized beds (not twin), ample storage, and a well-designed bathroom. Some solo cabins (e.g., Virgin’s Sea View Solo) feature floor-to-ceiling windows, while others (like NCL’s Studios) prioritize space efficiency. Amenities like USB ports, smart TVs, and app-controlled lighting enhance comfort.

Example: On the Norwegian Prima, the Studio cabins include a fold-down desk, perfect for remote workers or journaling.

Social Opportunities and Solo Lounges

The best solo cruises offer structured social programming. Look for ships with dedicated solo lounges, daily meet-ups, and group activities. For example, Celebrity’s “Celebrity Connect” app helps solo travelers form dining groups, while Princess’s solo events include mixers and excursions.

Pro Tip: Attend the first-night solo mixer—it’s the best way to meet fellow solo travelers early in the cruise.

Pricing and Value

Compare total costs, not just cabin prices. Some lines (e.g., Virgin, NCL) have no single supplement, while others (e.g., Celebrity, Princess) offer reduced supplements. Factor in dining, Wi-Fi, and excursions. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s “Deluxe Beverage Package” includes cocktails, which is valuable for solo travelers who want to socialize over drinks.

Example: A 7-night Alaska cruise on the Celebrity Edge with a solo balcony cabin, dining package, and Wi-Fi might cost $3,200, versus $4,500+ on a traditional cruise line with full supplements and à la carte dining.

Data Table: Solo Cabin Comparison (2024)

Cruise Line	Ships with Solo Cabins	Cabin Size (sq ft)	Solo Lounge?	Avg. Supplement	Unique Features
Norwegian Cruise Line	Epic, Encore, Bliss, Joy, Prima, Viva	100	Yes	None	Studio Lounge, social events
Royal Caribbean	Symphony, Odyssey, Wonder	120–140	No	20–30% reduction	Solo Traveler Meet-Ups
Virgin Voyages	Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady	110–130	No	None	Adults-only, all-inclusive
Celebrity Cruises	Edge, Apex, Beyond	110–130	Yes	10–20% reduction	Celebrity Connect app
Princess Cruises	Discovery, Enchanted	130–150	Yes	25–40% reduction	MedallionClass tech
Cunard Line	Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth	120–140	Yes	15–25% reduction	Solo Traveler Evenings

Tips for Booking Your First Solo Cruise

Book Early and Use a Solo Travel Specialist

Solo cabins are limited and sell out fast. Book at least 6–12 months in advance, especially for peak seasons. Use a travel agent who specializes in solo travel—they often have access to exclusive deals or can negotiate upgrades. For example, Solo Cruise Travel and Singles in Paradise offer group sailings with guaranteed solo cabins.

Leverage Loyalty Programs and Promotions

Join cruise line loyalty programs (e.g., NCL’s Latitudes, Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor) for early booking privileges and discounts. Watch for promotions like “Free Solo Cabin Upgrades” or “No Single Supplement” deals. For instance, Princess Cruises occasionally runs “Solo Sailor Sales” with 50% off supplements.

Pack Smart and Stay Connected

Bring noise-canceling headphones, a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, and a journal. Use apps like Shipmate to connect with other solo travelers pre-cruise. Download offline maps for ports of call to avoid data charges.

Embrace the Social Scene

Don’t isolate yourself! Attend solo mixers, join group excursions, and try dining with others. Most cruise lines offer “solo tables” in main dining rooms. If you’re shy, start with low-pressure activities like trivia or art auctions.

Conclusion: The Future of Solo Cruising is Bright

The rise of dedicated single cabins is transforming the cruise industry, making it more inclusive and appealing for solo travelers. From NCL’s pioneering Studio concept to Virgin’s sleek adults-only ships, there’s never been a better time to cruise alone. By choosing a line with solo cabins, you’ll save money, avoid awkward roommates, and gain access to tailored social experiences.

As cruise lines continue to innovate—think AI-powered matchmaking, solo-focused excursions, and expanded cabin options—the solo cruise market will only grow. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or connection, the perfect solo cruise awaits. So pack your bags, book that cabin, and set sail on a journey that’s truly all yours. The open sea is calling—and this time, there’s no supplement to pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines have single cabins for solo travelers?

Several major cruise lines now offer dedicated single cabins, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival. These cabins are designed to eliminate or reduce the single supplement fee, making solo travel more affordable.

Which cruise lines offer solo cabins with no extra fees?

Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, and Holland America are known for offering single cabins with little to no single supplement. These options cater specifically to solo travelers seeking cost-effective and social-friendly staterooms.

Are there any luxury cruise lines with single cabins?

Yes, luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises now feature solo traveler staterooms on select ships. These often include high-end amenities and are priced competitively to attract independent explorers.

Do solo cabins on cruise ships have shared bathrooms?

Most modern single cabins, like those on Norwegian’s “Studio” rooms or Virgin Voyages’ “Solo Insider” cabins, include private bathrooms. However, some budget-focused options may offer shared facilities—always check the cabin details before booking.

What are the best cruise lines for solo travelers looking for social experiences?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean stand out for solo travelers, offering dedicated lounges and social events. Their single cabins are often located near exclusive areas to foster community among solo cruisers.

Can I find single cabins on river cruise lines?

Yes, river cruise lines like AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways offer single-occupancy cabins on many European itineraries. These are ideal for solo travelers wanting intimate, destination-focused experiences without hefty supplements.