Which Cruise Lines Have Single Rooms A Complete Guide for Solo Travelers

Several major cruise lines now offer dedicated single rooms, making solo travel more affordable and comfortable than ever. Lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America provide studio staterooms and solo traveler incentives, including reduced single supplements and exclusive social events. This guide breaks down the best options, pricing, and onboard perks for solo cruisers.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line offers solo cabins with no single supplement on select sailings.
• Royal Caribbean features Studio Staterooms designed for solo travelers’ comfort and affordability.
• Celebrity Cruises provides dedicated single cabins with access to exclusive solo traveler events.
• MSC Cruises includes solo cabins on newer ships, often with reduced supplement fees.
• Virgin Voyages eliminates single supplements, making all cabins solo-traveler friendly.
• Holland America offers single rooms but charges a supplement—book early for best rates.
• Always compare solo cabin availability and fees across cruise lines before booking.

Why Solo Cruising is More Accessible Than Ever

For decades, solo travelers faced a frustrating dilemma when booking a cruise: either pay a hefty single supplement—often 50% to 100% more than the per-person fare—or settle for a double-occupancy cabin with a stranger. The cruise industry, historically designed for couples and families, seemed to overlook the growing number of independent explorers. But times have changed. Today, a wave of cruise lines recognizes the rising demand for solo travel and has responded with dedicated single cabins, reduced supplements, and even solo-focused amenities. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or considering your first cruise alone, the options are now more diverse and affordable than ever.

The global solo travel market has exploded in recent years, with studies showing that over 24% of travelers now take trips alone. Cruises, with their all-inclusive nature, structured itineraries, and built-in social opportunities, are an ideal way to explore the world solo. Cruise lines have taken note, introducing innovative solutions to attract this demographic. From private studios to solo lounges and dedicated events, the industry is redefining what it means to cruise alone. In this guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines have single rooms, what makes them stand out, and how you can make the most of your solo voyage.

Cruise Lines with Dedicated Single Cabins (No Supplement)

For solo travelers seeking the ultimate freedom, cruise lines with dedicated single cabins—designed and priced specifically for one—are a game-changer. These rooms eliminate the single supplement entirely, offering a fair and transparent pricing model. Below are the top cruise lines leading the charge in this category.

1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – The Studio Complex

NCL was the first major cruise line to introduce dedicated single cabins with its “Studio” concept. Available on ships like the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Encore, these compact but thoughtfully designed cabins are priced solely for one passenger. The Studio cabins are part of a private complex that includes:

• Studio Lounge: A private, adults-only lounge with complimentary snacks, drinks, and concierge service.
• Social Events: Weekly mixers, game nights, and excursions tailored for solo guests.
• Keycard Access: Only Studio guests can enter the complex, fostering a sense of community.

Example: On a 7-day Caribbean cruise, a Studio cabin on the Norwegian Getaway starts at $1,200—roughly 30% less than the double-occupancy rate for the same itinerary. The lounge’s happy hour is a popular spot to meet other solo travelers before dinner.

2. Virgin Voyages – Solo Cabins with a Twist

Virgin Voyages, known for its edgy, adults-only vibe, offers 16 solo cabins on each of its ships (Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, etc.). These “Solo Insider” and “Solo Sea View” cabins are priced at a flat rate with no supplement. Key features include:

• Priority Boarding: Solo guests get early embarkation.
• Group Excursions: Curated shore trips designed for solo travelers.
• Social Media Integration: A private Facebook group connects solo cruisers before the trip.

Tip: Book early—solo cabins sell out months in advance, especially on Mediterranean and Transatlantic itineraries.

3. Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva – Next-Gen Studios

NCL’s newest ships, the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, expand the Studio concept with larger cabins (100–150 sq ft), floor-to-ceiling windows, and upgraded lounge amenities. The Studio Lounge now includes a dedicated barista station and a “Solo Traveler Concierge” to help plan activities.

Cruise Lines with Reduced or Waived Single Supplements

While dedicated single cabins are ideal, many cruise lines offer reduced or waived single supplements on select sailings. These promotions can cut costs by 20%–100%, making solo travel significantly more affordable. Here’s how to find them.

1. Royal Caribbean – “Solo Traveler” Promotions

Royal Caribbean frequently waives the single supplement on interior and oceanview cabins for last-minute bookings (typically 30–90 days before departure). Their “Solo Traveler” program includes:

• Dedicated Hosts: A crew member organizes meetups and activities.
• Group Dining: Solo guests can join communal tables in main dining rooms.
• Exclusive Events: Wine tastings, trivia nights, and deck parties.

Example: A 7-day Alaska cruise on the Radiance of the Seas might offer a 50% single supplement reduction for an oceanview cabin, dropping the price from $2,000 to $1,500 per person.

2. Holland America Line – “Solo Traveler Savings”

Holland America regularly advertises waived single supplements on repositioning cruises (e.g., transatlantic voyages) and off-peak seasons (January–March). Their “Solo Traveler Savings” program also includes:

• Private Cocktail Receptions: Monthly events for solo guests.
• Group Shore Excursions: Curated tours with small groups of solo travelers.

Tip: Sign up for Holland America’s email alerts—they announce supplement waivers 2–3 months in advance.

3. Princess Cruises – “Solo Traveler” Guarantees

Princess Cruises guarantees no single supplement on select sailings (often 7–14 days) in Europe, Alaska, and the Caribbean. Their “Solo Traveler” program features:

• Dedicated Meetups: Hosted by a “Solo Traveler Ambassador.”
• Priority Dining: Early reservations for communal tables.

Data: In 2023, Princess offered supplement waivers on 120+ sailings, with an average savings of $400 per person.

Cruise Lines with Solo-Friendly Cabins (No Dedicated Singles)

Not all cruise lines have dedicated single cabins, but many offer solo-friendly options—smaller cabins, reduced supplements, or solo-focused amenities. These lines are worth considering if flexibility is key.

1. Carnival Cruise Line – “Single Guarantee” Program

Carnival doesn’t have dedicated single cabins, but its “Single Guarantee” program allows solo travelers to book a double-occupancy cabin at the per-person rate if no other solo guest is available to share. Key perks:

• No Supplement: If matched with another solo traveler, you pay the double-occupancy rate.
• Private Cabin: If not matched, you get the entire cabin at no extra cost (rare but possible).

Tip: Book a “guarantee” cabin and opt for a higher deck—Carnival often upgrades solo guests to better locations.

2. Celebrity Cruises – “Solo Studio” Cabins (Select Ships)

Celebrity offers four solo cabins on its Edge-class ships (Celebrity Edge, Apex, etc.). These “Solo Studio” cabins are priced without a supplement and include:

• Private Balcony: A rare feature for solo cabins.
• Dedicated Host: A concierge arranges meetups and activities.

Note: Solo cabins are only available on 7-day+ itineraries in Europe and the Caribbean.

3. MSC Cruises – “Solo Traveler” Packages

MSC Cruises offers reduced single supplements (10%–30% off) on most sailings. Their “Solo Traveler” packages include:

• Group Dining: Assigned tables with other solo guests.
• Free Excursions: One complimentary shore trip per cruise.

Example: A 5-day Mediterranean cruise might offer a 20% supplement reduction, saving solo travelers $150–$200.

Smaller & Luxury Lines with Solo Traveler Perks

Smaller and luxury cruise lines often provide exceptional solo travel experiences, even without dedicated single cabins. These lines cater to solo travelers through personalized service, intimate ships, and curated social events.

1. Viking Cruises – “Solo Traveler” Cabins

Viking Ocean Cruises offers 18 solo cabins per ship (Viking Star, Viking Sea, etc.), priced without a supplement. Features include:

• Private Balconies: All solo cabins have outdoor space.
• Free Excursions: Complimentary shore tours in every port.
• All-Inclusive: Alcohol, Wi-Fi, and gratuities are included.

Data: Viking’s solo cabins account for 5% of total inventory, the highest ratio in the industry.

2. Oceania Cruises – “Solo Traveler” Guarantees

Oceania waives the single supplement on select sailings (often 10+ days). Their “Solo Traveler” program includes:

• Private Cocktail Parties: Hosted by the cruise director.
• Group Dining: Reserved tables in specialty restaurants.

Tip: Oceania’s “Cruise Tour” packages (pre/post-cruise extensions) often include waived supplements.

3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises – All-Inclusive Solo Travel

Regent offers waived single supplements on repositioning cruises and select sailings. As an all-inclusive line, solo travelers benefit from:

• Free Airfare: Complimentary business-class flights on many itineraries.
• No Tipping: Gratuities are included.
• Private Events: Solo-only mixers and excursions.

Tips for Booking the Best Solo Cruise Experience

Finding the right solo cruise requires strategy. Use these tips to maximize value and enjoyment.

1. Book Early (or Last-Minute)

Early birds get first pick of dedicated single cabins (e.g., NCL Studios, Virgin solo cabins). Last-minute bookers (30–90 days out) benefit from waived supplements on lines like Royal Caribbean and Holland America.

2. Leverage Solo Traveler Communities

Join Facebook groups like “Solo Cruise Travelers” or forums like Cruise Critic to share tips, find cabin mates, and get alerts on deals. Many groups organize pre-cruise meetups in port cities.

3. Consider Off-Peak Seasons

Solo supplements are more likely to be waived during shoulder seasons (April, October) or repositioning cruises (transatlantic, transpacific). For example, a September Alaska cruise might offer a 40% supplement reduction.

4. Ask About Solo-Focused Amenities

Before booking, inquire about:

• Solo lounges or events.
• Group dining options.
• Shore excursions for solo travelers.

Example: Azamara offers a “Solo Traveler Host” on every cruise to organize activities.

5. Compare Total Costs

Don’t just look at the base fare. Factor in:

• Single supplements.
• Excursion costs.
• Gratuities and drink packages.

Data: A “no supplement” cruise with $500 in excursions and $200 in drinks might still cost more than a supplement-waived cruise with all-inclusive pricing.

Comparison Table: Cruise Lines with Single Rooms

Cruise Line	Dedicated Single Cabins?	Single Supplement Policy	Key Solo Perks	Best For
Norwegian Cruise Line	Yes (Studio Cabins)	None	Studio Lounge, solo events	Social travelers, Caribbean/Mediterranean
Virgin Voyages	Yes (Solo Cabins)	None	Group excursions, private Facebook group	Adults-only, trendy itineraries
Royal Caribbean	No	Waived on select sailings	Solo hosts, group dining	Last-minute deals, large ships
Holland America	No	Waived on repositioning cruises	Private cocktail parties	Alaska, transatlantic
Viking Cruises	Yes (Solo Cabins)	None	Free excursions, all-inclusive	Luxury, river/ocean
Celebrity Cruises	Yes (4 per ship)	None	Solo hosts, private balconies	Europe, Caribbean

Solo cruising has evolved from a niche option to a mainstream choice, thanks to cruise lines embracing the solo traveler market. Whether you prioritize affordability, community, or luxury, there’s a cruise line—and a cabin—waiting for you. By understanding which lines offer dedicated single rooms, reduced supplements, or solo-friendly perks, you can plan a voyage that’s as unique as you are. Pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and set sail on a journey that’s truly yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines have single rooms for solo travelers?

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, now offer dedicated single rooms or solo traveler cabins. These cabins are designed to eliminate or reduce single supplements, making them ideal for independent explorers.

Do any cruise lines offer solo cabins without a single supplement?

Yes, cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line (with their Studio Cabins) and Virgin Voyages provide single rooms with no extra fees. These options cater specifically to solo travelers seeking affordability and social opportunities.

Are single rooms on cruise ships smaller than standard cabins?

While single cabins are often more compact, they’re efficiently designed to maximize space. For example, Norwegian’s Studio Cabins prioritize smart layouts and access to exclusive solo lounges, balancing size and comfort.

Which cruise lines have single rooms with social perks?

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Studio Cabins include access to a private lounge for solo travelers, while Holland America hosts solo meetups. These perks help solo cruisers connect and share experiences onboard.

Can solo travelers book single rooms on luxury cruise lines?

Yes, luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises offer single-occupancy suites or dedicated solo cabins. These often include premium amenities and all-inclusive pricing, perfect for upscale solo journeys.

What are the cheapest cruise lines with single rooms?

Budget-friendly options include Carnival’s “Porthole” solo cabins and MSC Cruises’ dedicated single staterooms. Both offer reduced or waived single supplements, making them great for cost-conscious solo travelers.