What Cruise Lines Offer Solo Cabins for Independent Travelers

Several major cruise lines now offer dedicated solo cabins, catering to independent travelers seeking affordability and social connection. Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages lead the pack with studio staterooms, single-friendly pricing, and exclusive lounges—making solo cruising more accessible and enjoyable than ever.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers dedicated solo cabins with no single supplement fees.
• Royal Caribbean: Provides solo staterooms on select ships across its fleet.
• Holland America: Features solo cabins with access to exclusive lounges.
• Celebrity Cruises: Solo cabins include perks like private events and mixers.
• MSC Cruises: Affordable solo cabins available on newer ships in the fleet.
• Virgin Voyages: No solo cabins but waives single supplement fees.
• Book early: Solo cabins are limited and sell out quickly.

Why Solo Travelers Are Choosing Cruises—And Which Lines Cater to Them

Traveling solo has never been more popular. According to a 2023 report by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, solo travel bookings have increased by over 65% in the past five years, with millennials and Gen Z leading the charge. Cruising, once seen as a family or couples-focused vacation, is now emerging as a top choice for independent travelers. The all-inclusive nature, safety, and built-in social opportunities make cruise ships an ideal environment for those exploring the world alone. Yet, for years, solo cruisers faced a frustrating barrier: the dreaded single supplement—a fee that could double the cost of a cabin simply because they didn’t have a companion to split the room cost.

Thankfully, the cruise industry has evolved. In response to growing demand, many major cruise lines now offer dedicated solo cabins—compact, thoughtfully designed staterooms built specifically for one traveler. These cabins eliminate the single supplement and provide a more affordable, comfortable experience for solo adventurers. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler looking to explore new destinations without the hassle of planning every detail, solo cabins are transforming the way independent travelers experience the high seas. This guide dives deep into which cruise lines offer solo cabins, what to expect, and how to choose the best option for your travel style and budget.

Top Cruise Lines with Dedicated Solo Cabins

The shift toward solo-friendly cruising has been led by several forward-thinking cruise lines. These companies have recognized that solo travelers are not a niche market but a growing demographic with unique needs and preferences. Below are the leading cruise lines that offer solo cabins, along with key details on their offerings, pricing, and onboard experiences.

Royal Caribbean International: Studio Staterooms and Social Perks

Royal Caribbean is one of the pioneers in solo cruising, with its Studio Staterooms available on select ships like the Harmony of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas. These cabins are compact (ranging from 100 to 120 sq ft) but well-designed, featuring full-sized beds, private bathrooms, and access to a private lounge for solo travelers. The Studio Lounge offers complimentary breakfast, evening drinks, and exclusive events such as trivia nights and mixology classes.

What sets Royal Caribbean apart is its emphasis on community. The line hosts “Solo Cruiser” meetups on the first day of every voyage, helping travelers connect before the ship even leaves port. Additionally, solo cruisers can join group excursions, dining reservations, and even private shore tours designed just for them. Prices for Studio Staterooms start around $700 for a 7-night Caribbean cruise, making it one of the most affordable options in the market.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Studio Complex

NCL’s Studio Complex is a game-changer for solo travelers. Located on the Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, and other Breakaway- and Breakaway Plus-class ships, the Studio Complex includes 82 solo cabins clustered around a private lounge. The cabins are small (99 sq ft) but include full-sized beds, modern bathrooms, and smart storage solutions.

The real highlight is the Studio Lounge, a vibrant social space with complimentary drinks, snacks, board games, and a concierge to help plan activities. NCL also offers “Solo Cruiser” events, including cocktail parties, dance classes, and group dinners. One unique feature is the “Open Dining” policy—solo travelers can join any dining table, reducing the awkwardness of eating alone. Pricing starts at $850 for a 7-night Alaska cruise, and the line frequently offers “Free at Sea” promotions that include free drinks, shore excursions, and specialty dining for solo cruisers.

Holland America Line: Solo Traveler Cabins on Select Ships

While not all Holland America ships have solo cabins, the line has introduced Solo Traveler Cabins on newer vessels like the Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Rotterdam. These cabins are slightly larger (127–143 sq ft) and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, full-sized beds, and modern décor. Unlike other lines, Holland America’s solo cabins are scattered throughout the ship, offering more privacy but less of a centralized social hub.

To compensate, the line hosts “Solo Traveler Welcome Receptions” and organizes group excursions. They also offer a “Solo Traveler Concierge” to help with dining reservations and activity planning. Prices start at $900 for a 7-night Caribbean cruise. Holland America appeals to travelers who prefer a quieter, more refined experience and are less interested in constant socializing.

Cunard Line: Britannia Solo Staterooms on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria

Cunard, known for its traditional British elegance, has introduced Britannia Solo Staterooms on the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria. These cabins (130–140 sq ft) are located on Deck 1 and feature full-sized beds, marble bathrooms, and classic décor. While there’s no dedicated solo lounge, Cunard hosts “Solo Traveler Afternoon Teas” and “Cocktail Evenings” to encourage mingling.

Cunard’s solo cabins are ideal for travelers who enjoy formal dining, afternoon tea, and cultural enrichment programs. The line also offers “Solo Traveler Dining” tables in the main dining room, where guests can be seated with other solo cruisers. Pricing is on the higher end, starting at $1,200 for a 7-night transatlantic cruise, but includes access to Cunard’s renowned White Star Service and enrichment lectures.

MSC Cruises: Solo Cabins on MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seaside

MSC Cruises has embraced solo travel with Solo Cabins on the MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seaside. These cabins (97–108 sq ft) are compact but stylish, with modern furnishings and private bathrooms. While there’s no exclusive lounge, MSC hosts “Solo Traveler Events” such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and dance parties.

One standout feature is MSC’s “My Time Dining”—solo travelers can choose when and where to eat, with flexible seating options. The line also offers “Solo Traveler Packages” that include free Wi-Fi, drink packages, and shore excursions. Prices are competitive, starting at $650 for a 7-night Mediterranean cruise. MSC is a great choice for budget-conscious solo travelers who want to explore Europe or the Caribbean.

How Solo Cabins Are Designed: Comfort, Privacy, and Community

Solo cabins are more than just smaller rooms—they’re thoughtfully designed spaces that balance comfort, privacy, and social opportunity. Cruise lines invest in smart layouts and amenities to make the most of limited square footage while ensuring solo travelers feel welcome and connected.

Smart Space Utilization

With cabin sizes ranging from 97 to 143 sq ft, cruise lines use space-saving furniture like wall-mounted beds, foldable desks, and under-bed storage. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Studio Staterooms feature murphy-style beds that can be folded up during the day to create more living space. NCL’s Studio cabins include multi-functional furniture and LED lighting that mimics natural daylight, making the room feel more spacious.

Many cabins also include full-sized beds (rather than twin beds), ensuring comfort for single travelers. Bathrooms are compact but modern, with rainfall showers and high-quality toiletries. Some lines, like Holland America, even include floor-to-ceiling windows to enhance the sense of openness.

Private Lounges: The Heart of the Solo Experience

The most innovative feature of solo cabins is the private lounge—a dedicated space where solo travelers can relax, socialize, and plan their day. These lounges typically offer:

• Complimentary breakfast and evening drinks
• Board games, books, and Wi-Fi
• Concierge services for booking excursions and dining
• Exclusive events like mixology classes and trivia nights

For example, NCL’s Studio Lounge has a self-serve bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks, while Royal Caribbean’s Studio Lounge offers complimentary espresso machines and a quiet reading nook. These lounges are designed to foster community while still offering privacy when needed.

Technology and Connectivity

Solo travelers often rely on technology to stay connected with home and plan their activities. Most solo cabins include USB charging ports, high-speed Wi-Fi, and interactive TVs with access to ship maps, schedules, and on-demand movies. Some lines, like MSC, offer free Wi-Fi packages for solo cruisers, making it easier to share photos and stay in touch.

Benefits of Booking a Solo Cabin (Beyond No Single Supplement)

While the elimination of the single supplement is the most obvious benefit, solo cabins offer several other advantages that enhance the cruising experience for independent travelers.

Reduced Anxiety and Social Pressure

For many solo travelers, the fear of being “the odd one out” can be a major barrier to cruising. Solo cabins address this by providing a built-in community of like-minded travelers. From day one, you’re part of a group that shares your experience—no need to awkwardly join a table of couples or families.

Lines like Royal Caribbean and NCL host “Solo Cruiser” meetups before departure, helping travelers connect before the ship even sails. This reduces the stress of meeting new people and makes it easier to form friendships that last the entire voyage.

Tailored Dining Experiences

Eating alone can be one of the most challenging aspects of solo travel. Solo cabins come with dedicated dining options designed to make mealtimes enjoyable. NCL’s “Open Dining” policy allows solo travelers to join any table, while Cunard offers “Solo Traveler Dining” tables in the main dining room. Some lines even offer private dining events for solo cruisers, such as wine-pairing dinners or chef’s table experiences.

For those who prefer privacy, many ships allow solo travelers to reserve private tables or order room service without extra fees—a perk not always available to solo travelers in standard cabins.

Exclusive Events and Shore Excursions

One of the biggest perks of solo cabins is access to exclusive events and group excursions. These are designed to help solo travelers explore destinations with a built-in group of companions. For example:

• Royal Caribbean offers “Solo Cruiser Shore Tours” with private guides and small groups.
• NCL hosts “Solo Traveler Beach Days” in ports like Nassau and Cozumel.
• Holland America organizes “Solo Traveler Cultural Walks” in cities like Barcelona and Venice.

These excursions are often cheaper than booking independently and come with the added benefit of traveling with people you’ve already connected with onboard.

Enhanced Safety and Support

Solo travel, especially for women, can raise safety concerns. Solo cabins provide an added layer of security. Many lounges have 24/7 concierge services, and crew members are trained to check in on solo travelers regularly. Some lines, like MSC, offer “Solo Traveler Check-Ins” via the ship’s app, allowing you to confirm your safety with the crew at any time.

Tips for Booking the Best Solo Cabin Experience

Booking a solo cabin is more than just choosing a ship—it’s about finding the right fit for your travel style, budget, and personality. Here are expert tips to help you make the most of your solo cruise.

1. Choose the Right Ship and Itinerary

Not all ships have solo cabins, and availability varies by itinerary. For example:

• Royal Caribbean’s Studio Staterooms are only available on Oasis- and Quantum-class ships.
• NCL’s Studio Complex is found on Breakaway- and Breakaway Plus-class ships.
• Holland America’s solo cabins are limited to newer vessels.

Use the cruise line’s website or a travel agent to verify cabin availability before booking. Consider itineraries with fewer sea days if you prefer constant activity, or more sea days if you enjoy onboard relaxation.

2. Book Early for the Best Deals

Solo cabins are in high demand and often sell out months in advance. Booking early not only guarantees availability but also gives you access to early-bird discounts and free perks like drink packages or Wi-Fi. NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotions, for example, are only available to guests who book 9+ months in advance.

3. Leverage Loyalty Programs

If you’ve cruised before, join the line’s loyalty program. Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society and NCL’s Latitudes Rewards offer perks like priority boarding, free upgrades, and exclusive events. These can enhance your solo experience significantly.

4. Pack Smart for a Smaller Space

Solo cabins have limited storage. Bring packing cubes, travel-sized toiletries, and multi-purpose clothing to save space. Consider a portable clothesline for drying swimsuits and towels.

5. Take Advantage of Onboard Events

Don’t skip the solo traveler events—they’re the best way to meet people. Attend the welcome reception, join a trivia night, or sign up for a group shore tour. The more you engage, the more rewarding your cruise will be.

Data Table: Solo Cabin Comparison Across Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Ship Examples	Cabin Size (sq ft)	Private Lounge	Starting Price (7-night cruise)	Key Perks
Royal Caribbean	Harmony, Odyssey, Wonder	100–120	Yes (Studio Lounge)	$700	Complimentary breakfast, mixology classes
Norwegian Cruise Line	Encore, Bliss, Breakaway	99	Yes (Studio Lounge)	$850	Open Dining, Free at Sea promotions
Holland America	Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam	127–143	No	$900	Solo Traveler Concierge, cultural walks
Cunard	Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria	130–140	No	$1,200	Afternoon tea, formal dining
MSC Cruises	Meraviglia, Seaside	97–108	No	$650	My Time Dining, free Wi-Fi

Conclusion: Embrace the Freedom of Solo Cruising

Solo travel is about freedom, discovery, and personal growth—and cruising with a solo cabin is one of the best ways to experience it. No longer burdened by the single supplement, independent travelers can explore stunning destinations, enjoy world-class amenities, and connect with like-minded adventurers—all without compromising comfort or budget.

Whether you’re drawn to the social energy of Royal Caribbean’s Studio Lounge, the elegant charm of Cunard’s Britannia Solo Staterooms, or the budget-friendly flexibility of MSC’s solo cabins, there’s a cruise line that matches your travel style. The key is to book early, engage with the community, and embrace the unique opportunities that solo cabins provide.

As the cruise industry continues to innovate, we can expect even more options for solo travelers—from expanded lounge spaces to themed solo voyages and wellness-focused retreats. For now, the message is clear: if you’ve ever dreamed of setting sail alone, now is the perfect time to make it happen. The sea is calling, and your solo cabin awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines offer solo cabins for independent travelers?

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages, offer dedicated solo cabins designed for independent travelers. These cabins eliminate or reduce the single supplement fee, making cruising more affordable for solo guests.

Do any cruise lines have no single supplement for solo cabins?

Yes, select cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line occasionally waive the single supplement on certain sailings or cabin categories. Virgin Voyages also includes solo cabins with no extra fees in their standard pricing model.

What cruise lines offer solo cabins with social perks?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America Line provide solo cabins near exclusive lounges or social areas, encouraging interaction with other single travelers. Royal Caribbean’s “Solo Cruisers” Facebook group and onboard meetups also enhance the social experience.

Are solo cabins on cruise ships smaller than standard cabins?

Solo cabins are often more compact but thoughtfully designed to maximize space, like Norwegian’s Studio cabins or Royal Caribbean’s Interior Plus. Despite their size, they include all the amenities of standard rooms, tailored for one.

Can I find solo cabins on luxury cruise lines?

Luxury lines like Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer solo cabins, often with perks like priority dining and concierge service. Azamara also features solo-friendly itineraries with reduced single supplements.

What’s the best budget-friendly cruise line for solo cabins?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line are top budget-friendly options, with frequent solo cabin promotions. MSC Cruises also offers affordable solo cabins, especially in their newer ships like the MSC World Europa.