Why Cruising Is Perfect for Solo Travellers
Cruising is one of the best types of holiday for solo travellers. Unlike a beach resort or city break, a cruise ship is a self-contained social environment where meeting people happens naturally — at dinner, in bars, on excursions, and during activities. You are never truly alone unless you want to be. The structured nature of a cruise also removes the logistical burden of planning transport, accommodation, and meals, letting you focus on enjoying the destinations.
Safety is another consideration. On a cruise ship, you are in a secure, controlled environment with 24-hour medical facilities and crew assistance. For solo travellers — particularly women travelling alone — this provides significant peace of mind compared to navigating unfamiliar cities independently.
Solo Cabins and Single Supplements
The biggest financial hurdle for solo cruisers has traditionally been the single supplement — an extra charge (often 50-100% of the fare) applied because cruise pricing is based on double occupancy. However, the industry has changed significantly. Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered purpose-built Studio cabins for solo guests, with their own lounge and social area. These are priced for single occupancy with no supplement.
P&O Cruises offers single cabins on Iona and Arvia. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is known for offering low or no single supplements on many sailings. Royal Caribbean occasionally waives single supplements during promotions. When comparing prices, always check whether the solo fare includes or excludes the supplement — the sticker price can be misleading.
How to Meet People on a Cruise
Most cruise lines organise solo traveller meet-ups early in the voyage — usually a cocktail party on the first evening where you can meet fellow solo guests. From there, friendships form quickly around shared dining tables, group excursions, and activities like dance classes, quiz nights, and enrichment talks. Many solo cruisers find they have a packed social calendar within a day or two of boarding.
Choosing open or assigned seating at dinner is a key decision. Assigned seating at a shared table guarantees dining companions each evening, which can lead to lasting friendships. Open seating gives you more flexibility but requires more initiative. Some lines, like Cunard, still maintain a traditional dining experience where table companions become an important part of the voyage.
Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travellers
Norwegian Cruise Line is the standout choice, with dedicated Studio cabins and The Studio Lounge exclusively for solo guests on most newer ships. Fred. Olsen is excellent for solo travellers on a budget, with low supplements and a friendly, sociable onboard atmosphere. Saga Cruises (for over-50s) actively welcomes solo guests with hosted events and dance partners.
For luxury solo travel, Viking Ocean Cruises offers competitively priced solo fares, and the enrichment-focused atmosphere is ideal for independent-minded travellers. Cunard also attracts many solo guests, particularly on transatlantic crossings, with gentleman dance hosts and a tradition of solo-friendly socialising in the various bars and lounges.
Practical Tips for Solo Cruising
Book excursions through the ship rather than independently — you will meet fellow passengers and have the security of the ship waiting for your group. Sit at the bar rather than a table in the evenings; bar seating is inherently more social. Take advantage of onboard classes and workshops, which are natural icebreakers. If your ship has a dance programme with hosts, join in even if you are a beginner.
For cabin selection, choose a location close to the lifts and public areas so you feel connected to the ship rather than isolated at the end of a long corridor. Pack a doorstop or magnetic hook for your cabin door — useful for propping it open while you settle in and chat to passing neighbours. Finally, let your cabin steward know you are travelling solo; they will often look out for you and ensure you feel welcome.
Budgeting for a Solo Cruise
Solo cruisers should budget 50-100% more than the per-person double-occupancy price, though this varies significantly by line and promotion. The best value comes from booking during Wave Season (January to March) when many lines reduce or waive single supplements. Fred. Olsen's solo deals can bring a 7-night cruise from under £600. NCL's Studio cabins start from around £700-900 for a week.
Drinks packages and excursion bundles can actually represent better value for solo travellers, as you pay the same price as anyone else but get the full benefit without needing to split costs. Wi-Fi packages are similarly priced per device regardless of cabin occupancy. Consider an all-inclusive fare where available — lines like Saga and Virgin Voyages include drinks, tips, and Wi-Fi, removing the worry of accumulating extras on your onboard account.