Planning a Solo Cruise for 2026
Cruising solo used to mean paying a steep single supplement - often double the per-person fare - just because most cabins are priced for two people. That's changed somewhat in recent years as several cruise lines have introduced dedicated solo cabins built for one traveler at a fairer price point.
Norwegian Cruise Line was an early leader in solo studio cabins with access to a private lounge just for solo guests, and lines like Royal Caribbean and Virgin Voyages have added similar solo-friendly cabin categories on select ships. Beyond cabin pricing, look for ships with organized solo traveler meetups, which many mainstream lines now offer as a way to help solo guests meet each other early in the cruise.
If a ship doesn't have dedicated solo cabins, ask about reduced or waived single supplements - some lines offer this seasonally as a promotion. Call +1-800-406-8495 and an advisor can check current solo-friendly deals across cruise lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise line is best known for solo traveler cabins?
Norwegian Cruise Line is widely known for its solo studio cabins and dedicated solo lounge, though several other lines have added similar options on select ships.
What is a single supplement?
It's an extra charge cruise lines add when a solo traveler books a cabin priced for two people - it can range from 100% to 200% of the standard per-person fare depending on the line and sailing.
Are there ways to avoid paying the single supplement?
Booking a dedicated solo cabin (where available) avoids it entirely, and some cruise lines periodically run promotions waiving or reducing the supplement on standard cabins.
Do cruise lines have organized activities for solo travelers to meet others?
Many mainstream lines host a solo travelers' meetup early in the cruise, and some have dedicated lounges or social events throughout the sailing.
Is cruising a good option for a first solo trip?
Yes - many people find solo cruising more approachable than solo travel involving flights and unfamiliar cities, since everything from meals to entertainment is built into one place.
Which cruise lines have dedicated solo cabins?
Norwegian Cruise Line and a few other mainstream lines offer studio cabins built specifically for solo travelers without the standard double-occupancy surcharge.
What is the single supplement, and can I avoid it?
The single supplement is an added fee cruise lines charge solo travelers occupying a cabin meant for two - booking a dedicated solo cabin or a line that waives the fee can help avoid it.
Is it easy to meet other people on a cruise as a solo traveler?
Yes, most ships host solo traveler meetups and shared excursions that make it easy to connect with other travelers if you want company.
Are solo cruises safe?
Cruise ships are generally considered a safe way to travel solo, with staff, security, and a controlled environment throughout the ship.
What ship size is best for solo travelers?
Mid-sized ships often strike a good balance for solo travelers - large enough for variety, but not so large that it feels impersonal.