Get Ready to Set Sail
Traveling solo is a unique and liberating experience, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace and on your own terms. Cruises cater increasingly to solo travelers, with dedicated cabins, engaging activities and opportunities to connect with like-minded adventurers. Here are the top 10 cruises for solo travelers that combine comfort, fun and affordability.
1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line is a pioneer in catering to solo travelers. Their award-winning Studio Cabins are designed specifically for single passengers, featuring access to an exclusive Studio Lounge for mingling. With flexible dining options and vibrant onboard activities, NCL ensures solo travelers feel right at home.
2. Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean offers a variety of ships with single-occupancy cabins. Solo travelers can enjoy amenities like rock climbing walls, FlowRider surf simulators and Broadway-style shows. With group excursions and onboard social events, making connections is easy and fun.
3. Cunard Line
Cunard combines luxury with a classic cruising experience. Their ships feature elegant single staterooms, and the line’s signature afternoon tea and ballroom dancing provide opportunities to socialize. Destinations range from transatlantic crossings to exotic locales, perfect for solo adventurers.
4. Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking’s sophisticated ships offer a more intimate experience for solo travelers. With no kids onboard and a focus on cultural enrichment, Viking cruises provide solo-friendly activities such as guided shore excursions and onboard lectures. Solo travelers can enjoy single supplements on select itineraries.
5. Holland America Line
Holland America is known for its Solo Travelers Program, featuring mixers, group dining and dedicated hosts. Their single staterooms are comfortable and stylish, and activities like cooking classes, wine tastings and live music make it easy to meet fellow travelers.
6. Silversea Cruises
For those seeking luxury, Silversea’s all-inclusive cruises cater beautifully to solo travelers. With small ships and a personalized approach, Silversea offers solo-exclusive fares on select voyages. Butler service and gourmet dining create a high-end, worry-free experience.
7. Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages has redefined cruising with its adults-only ships and focus on fun. Solo travelers can book Solo Sea Terrace cabins, which include private balconies. Activities like dance parties, drag shows and tattoo parlors ensure there’s never a dull moment.
8. Azamara
Azamara’s small ships and destination-focused itineraries are perfect for solo travelers seeking cultural immersion. The line offers single staterooms on select voyages, and onboard activities like trivia nights and wine pairings foster a sense of community.
9. Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises offers luxurious accommodations and a relaxed atmosphere. Their single supplement rates are often reduced, making it more affordable for solo travelers to explore exotic destinations. Culinary classes and art workshops provide enriching solo-friendly activities.
10. Saga Cruises (For 50+ Travelers)
Saga Cruises specializes in cruises for travelers aged 50 and above, making it an excellent choice for older solo adventurers. The line offers solo cabins and exclusive meetups to help passengers connect. With itineraries focused on Europe and the Mediterranean, Saga provides a relaxed and sociable experience.
Tips for Solo Cruising
- Book early. Solo cabins are in high demand and sell out quickly.
- Join social activities. Take advantage of mixers, group excursions and hosted events to meet new people.
- Choose smaller ships. Smaller ships often foster a more intimate and welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers.
- Leverage cruise line perks. Many cruise lines offer reduced single supplements or exclusive amenities for solo passengers.