Featured image for which cruise lines have no single supplement
Image source: quirkycruise.com
Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages, now offer select sailings with no single supplement, making solo travel more affordable and accessible than ever. These brands feature dedicated solo cabins or waive the usual 100%+ solo occupancy fee on specific itineraries, helping single travelers avoid costly penalties while enjoying a premium cruise experience.
Key Takeaways
- Several cruise lines like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean offer no single supplement on select sailings.
- Book early to secure no-supplement cabins, as availability is often limited.
- Smaller luxury lines such as Silversea waive single fees on certain itineraries.
- Look for solo traveler promotions during off-peak seasons for best deals.
- Always verify directly with the cruise line—policies change frequently.
- Consider repositioning cruises for higher no-supplement availability and savings.
📑 Table of Contents
- Introduction to Single Supplements on Cruise Ships
- Cruise Lines That Eliminate the Single Supplement Entirely
- Cruise Lines with Reduced or Waived Supplements on Select Sailings
- Luxury and River Cruise Lines with Solo-Friendly Policies
- How to Find and Book No-Supplement Cruises: Practical Tips
- Comparing Solo-Friendly Cruise Lines: A Data Table
- Conclusion: Embrace Solo Cruising Without the Penalty
Introduction to Single Supplements on Cruise Ships
For solo travelers, the dream of embarking on a cruise can be clouded by one frustrating reality: the dreaded single supplement. This extra fee—often 100% or more of the base fare—is charged by many cruise lines to cover the “lost revenue” when a cabin designed for two is occupied by just one guest. For adventurous singles, retirees, or those who simply prefer the freedom of solo travel, this can make a cruise vacation financially prohibitive. But here’s the good news: an increasing number of cruise lines are recognizing the growing solo travel market and are eliminating or reducing these penalties. This guide dives deep into which cruise lines have no single supplement, how they structure their solo-friendly policies, and what you need to know to plan a stress-free, budget-friendly solo cruise.
The rise of solo travel is undeniable. According to a 2023 report by Travel Market Report, 25% of all cruise bookings are made by solo travelers, up from 15% just five years ago. Cruise lines are responding by redesigning cabins, creating dedicated solo lounges, and—most importantly—removing the financial barrier of the single supplement. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, understanding which cruise lines offer true solo-friendly pricing can open up a world of possibilities. From luxury ocean liners to intimate river cruises, there’s a growing list of options designed to make solo cruising not just possible, but affordable and enjoyable.
Cruise Lines That Eliminate the Single Supplement Entirely
Some cruise lines have taken a bold step: they’ve completely eliminated the single supplement across their fleet. These companies recognize that solo travelers are a loyal and growing demographic and have structured their pricing models to reflect that. Here are the top cruise lines that offer no single supplement on select sailings or entire itineraries.
Visual guide about which cruise lines have no single supplement
Image source: rivercruiseadvisor.com
1. Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages has revolutionized the cruise industry with its adult-only, solo-friendly approach. The line has no single supplement on all sailings, making it one of the most transparent and inclusive options for solo cruisers. Their “Sailor Loft” cabins are designed specifically for solo travelers, offering a modern, minimalist aesthetic with floor-to-ceiling windows and smart technology. Virgin also hosts regular Solo Sailor Mixers, where single guests can connect over curated events like mixology classes and beachside bonfires.
- Example: A 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyage from Miami starts at $1,200 (all-inclusive), with no extra fees for solo occupancy.
- Tip: Book early—solo cabins sell out fast due to high demand.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
NCL’s Studio Cabins are a game-changer. These compact, well-designed cabins are priced at base fare with no single supplement. Located in a dedicated solo section of the ship, they offer access to the exclusive Studio Lounge, where solo travelers can socialize, enjoy complimentary snacks, and attend nightly events. The Studio concept debuted on the Norwegian Breakaway and has since expanded to 10+ ships, including the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Prima.
- Example: A 5-day Bahamas cruise on the Norwegian Joy starts at $899 for a Studio Cabin—no extra fees.
- Tip: Request a cabin near the Studio Lounge for easier access to events.
3. Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean offers no single supplement on select sailings, particularly in their Studio Staterooms on ships like the Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas. These cabins are priced at base fare and include access to a private lounge. While not available on every ship or itinerary, Royal Caribbean frequently runs promotions where even balcony and suite categories have waived supplements.
- Example: A 4-night Bermuda cruise on the Anthem of the Seas with a Studio Oceanview starts at $1,100.
- Tip: Use the “Solo Traveler” filter on Royal Caribbean’s website to find eligible sailings.
Cruise Lines with Reduced or Waived Supplements on Select Sailings
While some lines eliminate the supplement entirely, others offer limited-time waivers or reduced fees during specific periods. These promotions can save solo travelers hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. Here’s how to navigate these opportunities.
4. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival occasionally waives the single supplement during wave season (January–March) and on last-minute sailings. While standard policy charges a 50–100% supplement, they frequently run “Solo Traveler Deals” where the fee is reduced to 10–20%. Carnival’s Solo Traveler Program also includes meetups and dedicated social events.
- Example: A 3-night Baja Mexico cruise in February 2024 advertised a 10% supplement—down from the usual 100%.
- Tip: Sign up for Carnival’s email alerts and check their “Last Minute Deals” page weekly.
5. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises has a Single Occupancy Rate that caps the supplement at 50% of the base fare. However, they frequently waive this fee entirely during promotions. For example, in 2023, Princess ran a “Solo Traveler Sale” with no supplement on Alaska, Europe, and Caribbean itineraries. Their MedallionClass app also helps solo travelers connect via the “Meet & Mingle” feature.
- Example: A 7-day Alaska cruise with a balcony cabin priced at $1,400 (base fare) had the supplement waived in May 2024.
- Tip: Book through a travel agent—they often have access to unpublished solo deals.
6. Holland America Line
Holland America charges a standard 50–100% supplement but offers waivers on repositioning cruises (e.g., transatlantic or Panama Canal routes). These sailings are longer and less popular, making them ideal for solo travelers seeking value. Their Club Orange program also provides perks like priority boarding and exclusive events.
- Example: A 14-day transatlantic cruise from New York to Amsterdam in April 2024 had no supplement on interior cabins.
- Tip: Repositioning cruises often have fewer crowds and more onboard activities.
Luxury and River Cruise Lines with Solo-Friendly Policies
Luxury and river cruise lines are catching up with ocean cruise giants by offering dedicated solo cabins or supplement waivers. These smaller ships provide a more intimate, high-end experience with personalized service—perfect for travelers who value comfort and exclusivity.
7. AmaWaterways
This premium river cruise line offers no single supplement on select sailings, particularly in Europe (Danube, Rhine, and Seine routes). Their Single Cabins are designed with solo travelers in mind, featuring larger bathrooms and private balconies. AmaWaterways also hosts Solo Traveler Welcome Dinners and guided group excursions.
- Example: A 7-day “Romantic Rhine” cruise from Amsterdam to Basel starts at $3,200 with no supplement.
- Tip: Book a balcony cabin—they’re the same price as standard cabins on solo-friendly sailings.
8. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld offers waived supplements on 20–30% of their itineraries, often during off-peak seasons (e.g., early spring or late fall). Their Single Occupancy Cabins are elegantly appointed with premium linens and butler service. Uniworld’s Solo Traveler Program includes a dedicated onboard host to facilitate social events.
- Example: A 10-day “Brilliant Bordeaux” cruise in March 2024 had no supplement on Category 1 cabins.
- Tip: Ask about “Solo Traveler Guarantees”—some sailings promise no supplement if booked 120+ days in advance.
9. Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking charges a standard 50% supplement but waives it entirely on longer sailings (14+ days) and during promotions. Their Explorer Suite and Veranda Stateroom categories are popular with solo travelers. Viking also offers a Solo Traveler Meetup on every cruise and free shore excursions in every port.
- Example: A 15-day “Voyage to Antiquities” cruise from Rome to Athens had no supplement in September 2024.
- Tip: Book a suite—Viking often waives the supplement on higher categories during sales.
How to Find and Book No-Supplement Cruises: Practical Tips
Even if a cruise line doesn’t advertise “no single supplement” upfront, there are strategies to secure these deals. Here’s how to maximize your chances of finding solo-friendly pricing.
Use Specialized Travel Agents
Many travel agents specialize in solo travel and have access to unpublished deals or group rates. They can negotiate waivers, secure cabin upgrades, and even book you on sailings with guaranteed solo cabin availability. Look for agents certified by Singles in Travel or Solo Traveler World.
- Example: An agent secured a free balcony upgrade on a Carnival cruise after the line waived the supplement.
- Tip: Ask about “group sailings”—some agents block out entire ships for solo travelers.
Leverage Cruise Line Promotions
Set up price alerts on cruise line websites and sign up for their newsletters. Look for keywords like “Solo Traveler,” “No Supplement,” or “Single Occupancy.” For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Solo Traveler Deals” page lists sailings with waived fees, while Norwegian’s “Last Minute” section often has Studio Cabin discounts.
- Example: A Royal Caribbean email blast announced a “Solo Traveler Week” with 50% off supplements.
- Tip: Book during wave season (January–March)—supplements are most likely to be waived.
Consider Off-Peak and Repositioning Cruises
Cruises during shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October) or repositioning routes (e.g., Alaska to Seattle in September) often have lower demand, making them ideal for supplement waivers. These sailings are also less crowded and more affordable.
- Example: A 12-day repositioning cruise from Seattle to Vancouver in October had no supplement on Holland America.
- Tip: Repositioning cruises include more sea days—perfect for relaxation.
Comparing Solo-Friendly Cruise Lines: A Data Table
| Cruise Line | No Supplement? | Solo Cabin Type | Best For | Sample Price (7-night cruise) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Voyages | Yes (all sailings) | Sailor Loft | Adult-only, trendy | $1,200 |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Yes (Studio Cabins) | Studio Oceanview | Social events, short cruises | $899 |
| Royal Caribbean | Yes (select sailings) | Studio Stateroom | Family-friendly, mega-ships | $1,100 |
| AmaWaterways | Yes (select river sailings) | Single Balcony | Luxury, European rivers | $3,200 |
| Princess Cruises | Yes (promotions) | Balcony Stateroom | Alaska, classic itineraries | $1,400 |
| Carnival Cruise Line | 10–20% supplement (promotions) | Standard Cabin | Budget-friendly, fun | $699 |
Conclusion: Embrace Solo Cruising Without the Penalty
The era of solo travelers being penalized for their independence is fading. With cruise lines like Virgin Voyages, NCL, and AmaWaterways leading the charge, the dream of a no-single-supplement cruise is now a reality for millions. Whether you’re drawn to the social energy of a mega-ship, the intimacy of a river cruise, or the luxury of a boutique liner, there’s a solo-friendly option that fits your budget and style. The key is to research, stay flexible with dates, and leverage promotions—especially during wave season and off-peak periods.
Remember, solo travel isn’t just about saving money—it’s about embracing freedom, meeting new people, and creating unforgettable memories on your own terms. As the cruise industry continues to innovate with dedicated solo cabins, social events, and inclusive pricing, the future of solo cruising has never looked brighter. So pack your bags, set your course, and sail into the horizon without worrying about that extra fee. Your perfect solo adventure awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise lines have no single supplement for solo travelers?
Several cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages, offer select sailings with no single supplement. These are often labeled as “solo traveler” or “single occupancy” promotions and vary by departure date and ship.
Are there any mainstream cruise lines with no single supplement year-round?
Most major cruise lines don’t offer year-round no single supplement policies, but lines like Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America occasionally waive fees on specific itineraries. Smaller luxury or niche lines (e.g., UnCruise Adventures) may have more consistent solo-friendly pricing.
Do any cruise lines have dedicated solo cabins with no single supplement?
Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean feature dedicated solo cabins (Studio Staterooms) that eliminate the single supplement. These compact rooms are designed for solo travelers and often include access to private lounges.
How can I find which cruise lines have no single supplement deals?
Check cruise line websites’ “solo traveler” sections or sign up for newsletters to receive alerts about limited-time no single supplement promotions. Travel agents specializing in cruises can also help identify current deals across multiple lines.
Is the single supplement always waived on luxury cruise lines?
Not always, but some luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises occasionally offer reduced or waived single supplements during promotions. These are typically for oceanview or higher categories and book up quickly.
Why do some cruise lines have no single supplement while others charge extra?
Cruise lines that waive the single supplement aim to fill empty cabins and attract solo travelers. Others charge a supplement to offset the lost revenue from not selling the second passenger fare, though this practice is decreasing as solo travel grows in popularity.