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Several major cruise lines now offer single rates for solo travelers, eliminating the dreaded “single supplement” on many sailings. Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages lead the pack with dedicated solo cabins and competitive pricing, while others like Holland America and Princess Cruises provide reduced supplements on select voyages—making solo cruising more accessible than ever.
Key Takeaways
- Royal Caribbean offers dedicated solo cabins with no single supplements on select sailings.
- NCL provides studio staterooms exclusively for solo travelers at reduced rates.
- Virgin Voyages eliminates single supplements, making all cabins solo-traveler friendly.
- Holland America waives single fees on select itineraries—book early for availability.
- Cunard offers solo cabins on Queen Mary 2, ideal for transatlantic cruises.
- MSC Cruises features solo traveler discounts, especially in balcony and interior categories.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Solo Cruising Is More Popular Than Ever
- Cruise Lines with Dedicated Solo Cabins
- Cruise Lines with Reduced or Waived Single Supplements
- Cruise Lines with Solo Traveler Programs and Communities
- Small and Niche Cruise Lines Embracing Solo Travelers
- Tips and Strategies for Finding the Best Solo Cruise Deals
- Comparison Table: Solo Cruise Options at a Glance
- The Future of Solo Cruising: More Options, More Inclusivity
Why Solo Cruising Is More Popular Than Ever
Traveling solo has evolved from a niche lifestyle choice to a mainstream travel trend. In recent years, solo cruising has surged in popularity, driven by a growing desire for independence, adventure, and self-discovery. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), solo travel bookings have increased by over 40% in the past five years, with millennials and baby boomers leading the charge. Cruising, once perceived as a couples- or family-oriented vacation, is now being reimagined as a liberating experience for solo travelers seeking both social connection and personal space. The allure of waking up in a new destination every day, enjoying all-inclusive amenities, and having the freedom to explore at one’s own pace makes cruising an ideal choice for those flying solo.
However, one of the biggest deterrents for solo cruisers has historically been the dreaded single supplement—a surcharge that can add 50% to 100% (or more) to the base fare when booking a cabin designed for two. For years, this financial barrier made cruising an expensive proposition for individuals. But the tides are turning. Today, an increasing number of cruise lines are introducing what cruise lines have single rates, offering dedicated solo cabins, reduced single supplements, or even fully inclusive single occupancy pricing. These innovations are making solo travel not only feasible but also affordable and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or a first-time cruiser stepping out on your own, the options are expanding faster than ever before.
Cruise Lines with Dedicated Solo Cabins
One of the most significant developments in solo cruising is the introduction of dedicated solo cabins. These are staterooms specifically designed for single occupancy, often located in social areas of the ship and equipped with all the amenities of larger cabins—just scaled down. This model eliminates the single supplement entirely, as these cabins are priced for one person from the start. For solo travelers, this means no hidden fees, no awkward roommates, and no overpaying for unused space.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Pioneer of Solo Travel
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is widely regarded as the trailblazer in solo cruising. In 2010, NCL launched the Studio Staterooms on the Norwegian Epic, marking the first time a major cruise line introduced an entire deck dedicated to solo travelers. Since then, the Studio Complex has been rolled out across multiple ships in the fleet, including the Norwegian Escape, Joy, Bliss, Encore, and Prima-class vessels.
- Studio Staterooms: These compact cabins (approx. 100 sq. ft.) feature full-sized beds, private bathrooms, smart TVs, and access to a private lounge.
- Studio Lounge: A private social space where solo cruisers can mingle, enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, play games, and attend exclusive events.
- No Single Supplement: Studio cabins are priced for one person—no extra fees.
Tip: Book early—Studio cabins sell out fast, especially on longer itineraries and during peak seasons.
Royal Caribbean International: Expanding Solo Options
Royal Caribbean has followed suit with its own solo-friendly offerings. On ships like Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and the new Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean features Interior Solo Staterooms and Ocean View Solo Staterooms.
- Size and Layout: Ranging from 120 to 165 sq. ft., these cabins include full-sized beds, private bathrooms, and large windows (in ocean view versions).
- Location: Strategically placed near elevators and public areas, making it easy for solo travelers to connect with others.
- No Single Supplement: Like NCL, these cabins are priced for one, with no additional fees.
Pro Tip: Solo cabins on Royal Caribbean often include access to the Solarium and Vitality Spa—great places to relax and meet like-minded travelers.
Celebrity Cruises: Upscale Solo Travel
Celebrity Cruises offers Inside Solo Staterooms on select ships, including the Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex. These cabins are designed with the brand’s signature modern luxury aesthetic.
- Design
- Smart Features
- No Single Supplement
Celebrity also hosts Solo Traveler Meetups and exclusive onboard events, helping guests build connections from day one.
Cruise Lines with Reduced or Waived Single Supplements
Not all cruise lines offer dedicated solo cabins, but many are stepping up by reducing or eliminating single supplements on certain sailings. These promotions vary by season, itinerary, and availability, but they can make solo cruising significantly more affordable. Some lines even offer “single occupancy at double rate” pricing—meaning you pay the same as two people would for a standard cabin, effectively cutting the supplement in half.
Holland America Line: Seasonal Single Savings
Holland America Line frequently runs “Solo Traveler Savings” promotions, especially on repositioning cruises and off-peak itineraries (e.g., Alaska in September, Caribbean in May). During these promotions:
- Single supplement reduced to 10–25% (down from the standard 50–100%).
- Available on inside, ocean view, balcony, and suite categories.
- Applies to select sailings on ships like Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Koningsdam.
Example: A 7-night Alaska cruise in May might list a balcony cabin at $1,400 per person (double occupancy). With a 25% single supplement, the solo traveler pays $1,750 instead of $2,800—a savings of $1,050.
Tip: Sign up for Holland America’s email alerts—single supplement deals are often announced 3–6 months in advance.
Princess Cruises: “Solo Saver” Program
Princess Cruises offers a “Solo Saver” program that waives the single supplement on select voyages. This is especially common on:
- Repositioning cruises (e.g., transatlantic, Panama Canal).
- Longer itineraries (14+ nights).
- Off-peak seasons (late fall, early spring).
When available, solo travelers can book a standard double-occupancy cabin at the per-person double rate—effectively paying no supplement at all.
Real-World Example: A 14-night Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Rome might have a base fare of $1,800 per person (double occupancy). With the Solo Saver, a solo traveler pays just $1,800—half the price of the full cabin.
Pro Tip: Work with a travel agent familiar with Princess’s solo policies—they often have access to unpublished solo deals.
Cunard Line: Transatlantic Solo Deals
Cunard, known for its classic transatlantic crossings, frequently offers reduced single supplements on Queen Mary 2 voyages between Southampton and New York. These 7-night cruises often feature:
- 10–20% single supplement (vs. standard 50–100%).
- Access to exclusive lounges and social events for solo guests.
- Formal dining with assigned seating, encouraging interaction.
Why It’s Great: The transatlantic journey is a bucket-list experience, and Cunard’s elegant ambiance is perfect for solo travelers who appreciate tradition and sophistication.
Cruise Lines with Solo Traveler Programs and Communities
Beyond pricing, some cruise lines go the extra mile by fostering a community of solo travelers. These programs include dedicated meetups, social events, group excursions, and even onboard hosts to help solo cruisers connect. For many, the social aspect is just as important as the cost savings.
Oceania Cruises: “Solo Traveler Welcome” Events
Oceania Cruises, known for its intimate ships and gourmet dining, hosts “Solo Traveler Welcome” events on every voyage. These include:
- Welcome reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
- Group shore excursions curated for solo guests.
- Reserved dining tables in specialty restaurants (e.g., Polo Grill, Toscana).
While Oceania doesn’t offer dedicated solo cabins, they waive the single supplement on select sailings—especially longer itineraries and repositioning cruises. For example, a 21-night South Pacific cruise might feature 0% single supplement, making it an exceptional value.
Insider Tip: Book early and request to be added to the solo traveler mailing list—Oceania often notifies solo guests of exclusive events before general booking opens.
Windstar Cruises: Intimate and Inclusive
Windstar’s small ships (148–342 guests) create a natural sense of community. The line offers:
- No single supplement on select sailings (check the “Special Offers” section of their website).
- Group shore excursions with small, curated groups.
- Open-seating dining with a “hosted table” for solo travelers.
Windstar’s “Solo Traveler Meetup” is held within the first 24 hours of sailing, helping guests bond early.
Silversea: Luxury with a Solo Touch
Silversea Cruises, a leader in ultra-luxury cruising, offers reduced single supplements (as low as 25%) on many voyages. They also provide:
- Dedicated solo traveler events (e.g., wine tastings, cooking classes).
- Private excursions for solo guests in select ports.
- All-inclusive amenities (beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, shore excursions).
For high-end travelers, Silversea’s blend of privacy and social connection is unmatched.
Small and Niche Cruise Lines Embracing Solo Travelers
Beyond the big names, a growing number of small and niche cruise lines are catering specifically to solo travelers. These lines often operate smaller ships, focus on unique destinations, and prioritize personalized service—making them ideal for independent explorers.
UnCruise Adventures: Adventure for One
UnCruise offers small-ship expeditions in Alaska, Hawaii, the Galápagos, and more. Key features for solo travelers:
- No single supplement on most sailings.
- Shared cabins available (if you’re open to roommates).
- Active excursions (kayaking, hiking, snorkeling) that naturally foster group bonding.
UnCruise’s “Solo Traveler Guarantee” ensures you’ll never be charged more than double occupancy rates.
Ponant: French Elegance with Solo Perks
Ponant, the French luxury expedition line, offers reduced single supplements (as low as 20%) on select voyages. Their intimate ships (184 guests max) and immersive itineraries (Antarctica, Arctic, Mediterranean) attract curious solo travelers.
- Private balcony cabins with no supplement on some sailings.
- Onboard naturalist lectures and cultural events.
- Optional solo traveler meetups.
Lindblad Expeditions: Solo-Friendly Exploration
Partnered with National Geographic, Lindblad offers expedition cruises to remote destinations. They frequently run “Solo Traveler Fares” with no single supplement. Their ships feature:
- Shared cabins at no extra cost.
- Group Zodiac landings that encourage camaraderie.
- Expert-led lectures on wildlife and conservation.
Best For: Solo travelers who value learning and adventure over luxury.
Tips and Strategies for Finding the Best Solo Cruise Deals
With so many options, finding the best solo cruise deal requires strategy. Here’s how to maximize savings and enjoyment:
Book Early and Be Flexible
Solo cabins and reduced-supplement sailings sell out quickly. Book 6–12 months in advance, especially for popular itineraries (e.g., Alaska, Europe). Be flexible with:
- Departure dates (avoid peak summer and holidays).
- Itineraries (repositioning cruises often have the best solo deals).
- Ship class (newer ships have more solo amenities).
Use a Specialized Travel Agent
Many travel agents specialize in solo travel and have access to unpublished promotions, group rates, and last-minute deals. They can also:
- Negotiate single supplements.
- Secure solo traveler events.
- Help with visa and insurance needs.
Leverage Loyalty Programs
If you’ve cruised before, join the cruise line’s loyalty program. Members often receive:
- Early access to solo deals.
- Onboard credits (useful for excursions or spa treatments).
- Room upgrades (increasing your chances of a balcony cabin).
Consider Last-Minute Bookings
Cruise lines sometimes reduce single supplements at the last minute to fill unsold cabins. Check:
- Cruise line websites (“Last Minute Deals” section).
- Travel deal sites (e.g., VacationsToGo, CruiseSheet).
- Solo travel forums (e.g., Cruise Critic’s Solo Travelers Board).
Compare All Costs
Don’t just compare base fares. Factor in:
- Single supplement (if applicable).
- Port fees and taxes (usually the same for all).
- Onboard spending (gratuities, excursions, drinks).
- Airfare and pre/post-cruise hotels.
Comparison Table: Solo Cruise Options at a Glance
| Cruise Line | Dedicated Solo Cabins? | Single Supplement Policy | Solo Events/Programs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Yes (Studio Cabins) | 0% (Studio); 50–100% (others) | Studio Lounge, meetups | First-time solo cruisers, social butterflies |
| Royal Caribbean | Yes (Solo Cabins) | 0% (Solo); 50–100% (others) | Solo meetups, group excursions | Active travelers, families with solo kids |
| Celebrity Cruises | Yes (Inside Solo) | 0% (Solo); 50–100% (others) | Solo events, dining reservations | Luxury seekers, foodies |
| Princess Cruises | No | 0–25% (promotional) | Solo Saver events | Budget-conscious, longer itineraries |
| Holland America | No | 10–25% (promotional) | Solo meetups, group tours | Classic cruisers, retirees |
| UnCruise Adventures | No | 0% (guaranteed) | Shared cabins, group excursions | Adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts |
The Future of Solo Cruising: More Options, More Inclusivity
The cruise industry’s shift toward solo travelers is more than a trend—it’s a transformation. As demand grows, cruise lines are investing in better infrastructure, more inclusive pricing, and richer social experiences for solo guests. We can expect to see:
- More dedicated solo cabins across all major lines.
- Standardized single supplement policies (fewer hidden fees).
- Enhanced solo traveler programs, including mentorship and networking.
- Tech-driven solutions (e.g., apps to connect solo guests, virtual meetups).
For solo travelers, the message is clear: the days of overpaying for solitude are ending. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of a megaship, the intimacy of a small vessel, or the luxury of an all-inclusive expedition, what cruise lines have single rates is expanding every year. With the right research and a spirit of adventure, solo cruising is not just possible—it’s one of the most rewarding ways to see the world. So pack your bags, embrace your independence, and set sail on your next solo journey. The ocean is waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cruise lines have single rates for solo travelers?
Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, offer dedicated single rates or reduced single supplements for solo travelers. These options help solo cruisers avoid paying double occupancy fees on select sailings.
Which cruise lines offer the best single rates for solo cabins?
Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America are known for their solo traveler-friendly policies, with NCL offering dedicated studio cabins and HAL waiving single supplements on certain voyages. Look for promotions during off-peak seasons for the best deals.
Do any cruise lines waive single supplements entirely?
Yes, some cruise lines like Azamara and Regent Seven Seas occasionally run promotions that eliminate single supplements entirely. Smaller luxury lines such as Oceania and Viking also offer limited-time single rate incentives for solo travelers.
Are there cruise lines with solo cabins at no extra cost?
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Studio Cabins and Royal Caribbean’s Solo Inside/Studio Staterooms are designed specifically for solo travelers with no single supplement. These cabins are priced per person rather than per room.
What’s the average single rate supplement on major cruise lines?
Most cruise lines charge a 10-50% single supplement on standard cabins, but lines like Princess Cruises and Celebrity often cap it at 25%. Always check for seasonal promotions that reduce or eliminate these fees.
Can I find last-minute single rates for cruises?
Absolutely! Cruise lines like MSC and Costa often reduce or waive single supplements on last-minute bookings to fill unsold cabins. Solo travelers can save significantly by monitoring cruise deal websites and booking within 60 days of departure.