Which Cruise Lines Have Single Cabins for Solo Travelers

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, now offer dedicated single cabins designed specifically for solo travelers. These staterooms eliminate or reduce single supplements, making cruising more affordable and accessible for individuals seeking independence and comfort without extra fees.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers Studio cabins designed solo travelers.
• Royal Caribbean: Features Virtual Balcony inside staterooms for singles.
• Holland America: Dedicated solo cabins on select ships with no supplement.
• Celebrity Cruises: Single Inside staterooms available fleet-wide.
• MSC Cruises: Solo cabins on newer ships like MSC World Europa.
• Book early: Solo cabins often limited—reserve early to secure space.
• Check supplements: Some lines charge extra despite dedicated single cabins.

Which Cruise Lines Have Single Cabins for Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, cruising offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and social opportunities—but historically, it came with a frustrating catch: the dreaded single supplement. For years, cruise lines charged solo passengers nearly double the per-person fare for a cabin, effectively penalizing those who dared to travel alone. However, the tides are turning. As solo travel continues to surge in popularity—driven by rising numbers of independent professionals, retirees, and digital nomads—cruise lines are responding with innovative solutions, including dedicated single cabins for solo travelers.

Today, more cruise brands recognize the growing demand for solo-friendly accommodations. From compact but stylish staterooms to exclusive solo lounges and social events, the industry is evolving to make cruising more inclusive. Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly ocean cruise or a luxury river journey, there are now options that eliminate the single supplement and offer comfort, privacy, and value. In this comprehensive guide, we explore which cruise lines have single cabins, what to expect from each, and how to make the most of your solo cruise experience.

Why Solo Travelers Need Dedicated Single Cabins

The rise of solo travel isn’t just a trend—it’s a shift in how people experience the world. According to industry reports, over 25% of all cruise passengers now travel alone, and that number is expected to grow. Yet, for many, the cost barrier remains a major deterrent. Traditional cruise pricing models assume double occupancy, meaning solo travelers often pay 50% to 100% more than their double-occupancy counterparts—a practice known as the single supplement.

The Financial Impact of Single Supplements

Imagine booking a $2,000 cruise for two. A couple pays $1,000 each. A solo traveler, however, might be quoted $1,800 to $2,000 for the same cabin. That’s a significant premium for the same experience. This pricing model discourages many would-be solo cruisers and contributes to the perception that cruising isn’t solo-friendly. Dedicated single cabins solve this by offering rooms designed specifically for one person, priced fairly and without the supplement.

Emotional and Social Benefits of Solo-Friendly Cruises

Beyond cost, single cabins provide emotional and social advantages. Solo travelers often seek a balance between independence and community. A dedicated solo cabin allows for privacy when needed, while onboard programs—like solo traveler meetups, group excursions, and dedicated lounges—foster connection. Cruise lines with single cabins often include these perks as part of the package, enhancing the overall experience. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Studio Cabins come with exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, where solo guests can mingle, enjoy complimentary drinks, and attend themed events.

Who Benefits from Single Cabins?

Single cabins aren’t just for the single-by-choice crowd. They’re ideal for:

• Widowed or divorced travelers seeking a low-pressure way to re-enter social travel.
• Professionals on sabbaticals or remote work breaks who want to explore without the hassle of group dynamics.
• Adventure seekers who value independence but still want the safety and structure of a cruise.
• Retirees looking for hassle-free travel with built-in activities and dining.

With dedicated single cabins, these travelers can enjoy the best of both worlds: solitude and social engagement.

Top Ocean Cruise Lines with Single Cabins

Several major ocean cruise lines have embraced the solo traveler market with purpose-built accommodations. These cabins are typically smaller than standard staterooms but optimized for solo use, with smart layouts, modern amenities, and exclusive access to solo-friendly spaces.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Pioneer of Studio Cabins

NCL was the first major cruise line to introduce Studio Cabins in 2010, and they remain the gold standard for solo travelers. Available on ships like the Norwegian Breakaway, Getaway, Escape, and Joy, these cabins are compact (approximately 100 sq. ft.) but thoughtfully designed. Features include:

• Full-size beds (not twin beds)
• Smart storage solutions (under-bed bins, wall-mounted shelves)
• Private bathrooms with modern fixtures
• Flat-screen TVs and USB charging stations

The real highlight? Exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, a private space for solo guests with complimentary drinks, snacks, games, and scheduled social events. The lounge also serves as a check-in area and meeting point for solo excursions. NCL’s Studio Cabins are priced without a single supplement, making them one of the most affordable solo options at sea.

Royal Caribbean: Solo Ocean View & Interior Cabins

Royal Caribbean has expanded its solo offerings across its fleet, particularly on newer ships like Symphony of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas. While not as extensive as NCL’s Studio program, Royal Caribbean offers dedicated solo interior and ocean view cabins on select ships. These cabins are slightly larger (120–140 sq. ft.) and include:

• Full-size beds
• Private balconies (on ocean view rooms)
• Enhanced soundproofing for privacy

Royal Caribbean also hosts “Sail Away Solo” events, where solo travelers can meet before dinner, join group shore excursions, or participate in onboard activities like trivia or dance classes. While not all ships have solo cabins, Royal Caribbean’s website allows you to filter by “solo-friendly” itineraries and cabins.

Celebrity Cruises: Edge Solo Cabins

Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, introduced Edge Solo Cabins on its Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex ships. These cabins are designed with a modern, minimalist aesthetic and include:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows (no balcony, but panoramic views)
• Smart room controls (lighting, temperature, TV)
• Enhanced privacy (soundproofed walls, separate entry)

Celebrity also offers a Solo Traveler Program with dedicated meetups, group dining options, and exclusive shore excursions. The Edge Solo Cabins are priced without a supplement and are located near the ship’s spa and wellness areas, ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil experience.

Princess Cruises: Single Cabins on Select Ships

Princess Cruises offers dedicated single cabins on ships like Regal Princess, Royal Princess, and Discovery Princess. These cabins are typically located on higher decks and include:

• Full-size beds
• Private balconies
• Access to the Single Travelers’ Meet & Mingle events

Princess also provides “Solo Traveler Dining” options, where guests can choose to dine with other solo travelers or opt for private seating. While not all Princess ships have single cabins, the line is gradually expanding its solo-friendly offerings.

Luxury and Premium Cruise Lines with Solo Options

For travelers seeking a more upscale experience, several luxury and premium cruise lines now offer solo-friendly accommodations, often with added perks like butler service, private excursions, and gourmet dining.

Oceania Cruises: No Single Supplement on Select Sailings

Oceania Cruises, known for its refined cuisine and destination-rich itineraries, doesn’t offer dedicated single cabins but frequently waives the single supplement on select sailings. This is a game-changer for luxury travelers. For example, during “Solo Traveler Weeks”, Oceania may offer:

• 100% waiver of the single supplement on certain cabins
• Complimentary spa credits for solo guests
• Priority access to exclusive shore excursions

Oceania’s ships, like the Insignia and Sirena, feature spacious staterooms (175–200 sq. ft.) with elegant decor, marble bathrooms, and personalized service. While not solo-specific, the waived supplement makes luxury cruising accessible to solo travelers.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Solo Travel

Regent Seven Seas Cruises takes an all-inclusive approach to solo travel. While there are no dedicated single cabins, the line frequently offers “Solo Traveler Specials” with:

• 50% to 100% waiver of the single supplement
• Free round-trip airfare (in some promotions)
• Complimentary specialty dining and shore excursions

Regent’s ships, like the Seven Seas Explorer, feature spacious suites (300+ sq. ft.) with butler service, walk-in closets, and private balconies. The all-inclusive nature means solo travelers can enjoy premium drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities without extra costs.

Silversea: Single Suites with Butler Service

Silversea Cruises offers dedicated single suites on select ships, such as the Silver Muse and Silver Spirit. These suites are designed for solo travelers and include:

• Spacious layouts (250–300 sq. ft.)
• Private verandas
• Dedicated butler service
• Complimentary laundry and pressing

Silversea also hosts “Solo Traveler Dinners” and private meetups. The line frequently runs promotions with waived or reduced single supplements, making it one of the most luxurious solo cruise options available.

River Cruise Lines Embracing Solo Travelers

River cruising is particularly well-suited to solo travelers, thanks to its intimate scale, cultural focus, and inclusive atmosphere. Several river cruise lines now offer dedicated single cabins or waived supplements.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: No Single Supplement on Select Itineraries

Uniworld, known for its luxurious, boutique-style ships, offers no single supplement on many European river cruises. For example, the S.S. Maria Theresa and S.S. Catherine feature elegant staterooms with handcrafted furnishings, marble bathrooms, and panoramic windows. Uniworld also hosts “Solo Traveler Welcome Dinners” and provides dedicated solo excursions in cities like Vienna and Budapest.

AmaWaterways: Dedicated Single Cabins on Select Ships

AmaWaterways has introduced dedicated single cabins on ships like the AmaMagna and AmaSerena. These cabins are slightly smaller than standard staterooms but include:

• Full-size beds
• Private balconies
• Access to the “Solo Travelers’ Corner” in the lounge

AmaWaterways also offers “Solo Traveler Weeks” with waived supplements and complimentary bike rentals for exploring ports. The line’s active itineraries—featuring hiking, biking, and wine tastings—appeal to adventurous solo travelers.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours: All-Inclusive Solo Packages

Scenic offers dedicated single cabins on its river and ocean ships, including the Scenic Jasper and Scenic Eclipse. These cabins include:

• Spacious layouts (200–250 sq. ft.)
• Private balconies
• Butler service
• Complimentary mini-bar

Scenic’s “Solo Traveler Program” includes group excursions, private meetups, and even a dedicated solo traveler app for connecting with others onboard.

Tips for Booking and Maximizing Your Solo Cruise Experience

Booking a solo cruise requires a bit more strategy than a traditional trip. Here are key tips to ensure you get the best value and experience.

Book Early and Look for Promotions

Solo cabins are limited in number, so book early—ideally 9–12 months in advance. Sign up for cruise line newsletters to receive alerts about “Solo Traveler Weeks” or “No Single Supplement” promotions. For example, Oceania and Regent often announce solo deals 6–8 months ahead of sailings.

Use a Travel Agent Specializing in Solo Cruises

A good travel agent can help you navigate promotions, cabin availability, and onboard programs. Look for agents certified by organizations like the International Association of Travel Agents (IATA) or Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). They can also help you connect with other solo travelers before departure.

Engage with Onboard Solo Programs

Don’t miss out on solo traveler events! Attend the welcome reception, join group shore excursions, and participate in onboard activities. Many cruise lines have solo traveler ambassadors who help facilitate connections. For example, NCL’s Studio Lounge has a “buddy system” for first-time solo cruisers.

Pack Smart for Solo Travel

Bring:

• A reusable water bottle (many ships offer free refills)
• A power bank (cabins often have limited outlets)
• A small backpack for day excursions
• A journal or travel app to document your journey

Solo travelers also benefit from packing versatile clothing—cruise ships have formal, casual, and themed nights.

Consider Solo Traveler Insurance

Standard travel insurance may not cover all solo-related issues, like missed connections due to solo excursions. Look for policies that cover solo traveler emergencies, such as medical evacuation or trip interruption.

Comparison Table: Cruise Lines with Single Cabins

Cruise Line	Ship Example	Cabin Type	Size (sq. ft.)	Single Supplement	Onboard Solo Program
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Escape	Studio Cabin	100	None	Studio Lounge, meetups
Royal Caribbean	Symphony of the Seas	Solo Interior/Ocean View	120–140	None (on select cabins)	Sail Away Solo events
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Edge	Edge Solo Cabin	120	None	Solo Traveler Program
Princess Cruises	Discovery Princess	Single Cabin	130	None (on select sailings)	Meet & Mingle, solo dining
Oceania Cruises	Insignia	Standard Stateroom	175	Waived (select sailings)	Solo Traveler Weeks
AmaWaterways	AmaMagna	Single Cabin	140	None (select itineraries)	Solo Travelers’ Corner

The world of solo cruising has never been more inviting. With which cruise lines have single cabins now clearly mapped out, solo travelers can confidently choose from a range of options—from budget-friendly ocean cruises to luxurious river journeys. Whether you’re drawn to NCL’s vibrant Studio Lounge or Silversea’s butler-served suites, there’s a solo-friendly cruise that matches your style, budget, and sense of adventure. The key is to plan ahead, take advantage of promotions, and fully engage with onboard solo programs. The open sea awaits—and this time, you don’t need a plus-one to enjoy it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines have single cabins for solo travelers?

Several major cruise lines offer dedicated single cabins, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America. These cabins are designed to eliminate or reduce single supplements, making them ideal for solo cruisers.

Are single cabins available on luxury cruise lines?

Yes, luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises offer single-occupancy cabins with high-end amenities. These options cater to solo travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity without the hefty solo supplement.

Do budget-friendly cruise lines offer single cabins?

Absolutely! Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises provide affordable single cabins or reduced single supplements. These options make solo cruising more accessible for travelers on a budget.

Which cruise lines have single cabins with no extra fees?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages are known for offering single cabins with no single supplement fees. This policy helps solo travelers enjoy their vacation without paying extra for room occupancy.

Are there solo cabins on river cruise lines?

Yes, river cruise lines like AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises offer single cabins or reduced supplements for solo travelers. These smaller ships provide an intimate and social atmosphere perfect for solo explorers.

What is the best cruise line for solo travelers looking for single cabins?

Norwegian Cruise Line is often considered the best for solo travelers due to its wide range of single cabins and solo lounges. Other top choices include Royal Caribbean and Virgin Voyages, both of which prioritize solo-friendly amenities.