There’s something magical about standing on the deck of a cruise ship, watching the sunset paint the horizon in brilliant colors, knowing the adventure is entirely yours. Solo cruising offers a unique blend of freedom, self-discovery, and social opportunities that can’t be matched by other travel experiences. Whether you’re newly single, your travel partner can’t get away, or you simply crave the empowerment of traveling on your own terms, a solo cruise might be the perfect vacation you’ve been looking for.

As a travel advisor specializing in cruise experiences, I’ve helped countless solo travelers navigate the world of cruising alone – finding the best deals, avoiding common pitfalls, and creating unforgettable memories. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan, book, and enjoy your solo cruise adventure with confidence.

The Unique Benefits of Solo Cruising

Before we dive into the practical aspects of planning your solo cruise, let’s explore why cruising alone has become increasingly popular in recent years. Understanding these benefits will help you decide if solo cruising is right for you.

Freedom to Create Your Perfect Itinerary

When you cruise solo, you’re the captain of your experience. Want to sleep in and skip the morning excursion? Go for it. Prefer to spend the entire day at the spa? No one will complain. The freedom to design each day exactly as you wish is perhaps the greatest luxury of solo cruising.

As one of my clients recently shared, “I loved being able to join activities when I wanted company and retreat to my cabin when I needed alone time – no compromises required.”

Opportunities to Make New Friends

Contrary to popular belief, cruising solo doesn’t mean being lonely. Modern cruise ships are designed with solo travelers in mind, offering dedicated meetups, shared dining options, and group activities that make it easy to connect with like-minded travelers.

Many of my solo clients report making lifelong friendships during their cruises. The shared experiences of exploring new ports, enjoying onboard entertainment, and dining together create natural bonding opportunities without the pressure of constant companionship.

Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

There’s something transformative about navigating new experiences on your own. Solo cruising pushes you gently outside your comfort zone, building confidence and self-reliance. You’ll return home with not just memories of beautiful destinations, but also a stronger sense of who you are and what you’re capable of.

Many solo cruisers discover new interests, reconnect with forgotten passions, or simply enjoy the rare opportunity for self-reflection that comes with traveling alone.

How to Find the Best Cruise Deals for Solo Travelers

One of the biggest challenges for solo cruisers is the dreaded “single supplement” – the extra charge for occupying a cabin designed for two. The good news? The cruise industry is increasingly recognizing the value of solo travelers, and there are more affordable options than ever before.

Modern cruise ships now offer dedicated solo cabins designed specifically for single travelers

Solo Cabins vs. Single Supplements: Understanding Your Options

When booking a solo cruise, you’ll typically encounter two pricing structures:

5 Trusted Platforms for Finding Solo Cruise Deals

1. Cruise Critic

Their “Solo Cruiser” section features dedicated forums where travelers share recent deals, and their “Find a Cruise” tool lets you filter for ships with solo cabins.

2. Virgin Voyages

This adults-only cruise line offers solo cabins with no single supplements across their fleet, plus dedicated solo traveler meetups and activities.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

Pioneers in solo travel with their Studio cabins and exclusive Studio Lounge – a private gathering space just for solo travelers.

4. Vacations To Go

Their “90-Day Ticker” features last-minute deals, including many with reduced single supplements, sometimes as low as 25%.

5. Royal Caribbean

Their newer ships feature solo cabins with innovative virtual balconies – LED screens that display real-time ocean views.

Working with a Travel Advisor

A specialized cruise advisor (like me!) can access unpublished deals, monitor price drops, and advocate for the best solo traveler amenities.

Additional Strategies for Securing the Best Solo Cruise Deals

20 Essential Tips for Solo Cruise Success

Now that you know how to find the best deals, let’s explore how to make your solo cruise experience truly exceptional. These practical tips cover everything from pre-booking considerations to onboard strategies for making the most of your adventure.

Solo cruising offers countless opportunities for both social interaction and peaceful solitude

Before You Book

1. Choose the Right Cruise Line

Different cruise lines cater to different demographics. For solo travelers in their 20s-30s, Virgin Voyages or Royal Caribbean might be ideal. For 40s-60s, Celebrity or Princess offers the right balance. For 65+, Holland America or Cunard provides a refined experience with plenty of solo travelers.

2. Research Solo-Friendly Ships

Even within the same cruise line, some ships are better equipped for solo travelers than others. Look for newer ships with dedicated solo cabins or older ships that offer reduced single supplements during certain sailings.

3. Consider Cruise Length

For first-time solo cruisers, a 4-7 day itinerary is ideal. It’s long enough to settle in and make connections, but not so long that you might feel overwhelmed. Once comfortable with solo cruising, longer voyages offer deeper connections and more exotic destinations.

Packing and Preparation

4. Pack Solo-Specific Essentials

Beyond the usual cruise packing list, solo travelers should consider: a doorstop for added security, a nightlight for unfamiliar surroundings, and a crossbody bag for port days. Check out my curated Amazon list for all my recommended solo travel essentials.

5. Download the Cruise Line App

Most major cruise lines now offer apps that allow you to view daily schedules, make reservations, and – crucially for solo travelers – message other passengers. Download before boarding and familiarize yourself with the features.

6. Join Pre-Cruise Facebook Groups

Search Facebook for your specific sailing (e.g., “Norwegian Joy April 15, 2025”) to find groups of fellow passengers. Many solo travelers connect here before boarding, arranging meetups or even sharing airport transfers.

Onboard Strategies

7. Attend the Solo Travelers Meetup

Most cruise lines host a gathering specifically for solo travelers on the first day. This is the easiest way to meet potential friends for activities and dining throughout your cruise. Even if you’re feeling shy, make this a priority!

8. Choose Fixed Dining Time

While flexible dining seems appealing, solo travelers often benefit from traditional fixed seating. You’ll dine with the same tablemates each night, allowing friendships to develop naturally. Request a large table when booking to maximize social opportunities.

9. Leverage the Cruise Director’s Staff

The entertainment team knows who’s traveling solo and often helps facilitate connections. Introduce yourself to the cruise director and activities staff early in your cruise – they can be invaluable allies in enhancing your social experience.

10. Participate in Trivia and Game Shows

These casual, team-based activities are perfect for solo travelers. Simply ask “May I join your team?” and you’ll rarely be turned down. The shared experience of competing together creates instant camaraderie.

11. Book Ship-Sponsored Shore Excursions

While independent exploration has its charms, ship excursions guarantee you’ll return before sailing and provide built-in companions for the day. Small-group options offer the best balance of personal attention and social opportunity.

12. Utilize Sea Days Strategically

Sea days offer the richest programming. Review the daily schedule and circle 3-4 activities that interest you. Classes (cooking, mixology, dance) are especially good for meeting people while learning something new.

Safety and Comfort

13. Set Communication Expectations

Before sailing, let family know when you’ll check in and through which channels. Cruise ship internet can be spotty and expensive, so manage expectations about your availability.

14. Trust Your Instincts

While cruise ships are generally very safe environments, always listen to your intuition. If a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, politely excuse yourself. The ship offers countless other opportunities for positive interactions.

15. Embrace Dining Alone

While shared tables are great for socializing, there’s also joy in dining solo, especially at specialty restaurants. Bring a journal or book, request a window table, and savor the experience of a leisurely meal on your own terms.

Making the Most of Your Experience

16. Balance Social Time and Solitude

The beauty of solo cruising is the freedom to choose when to be social and when to enjoy your own company. Don’t feel obligated to fill every moment with activity – some of the most memorable experiences come from quiet moments of reflection.

17. Consider the Spa on Port Days

If you’ve visited a port before or simply need some downtime, book spa treatments while most passengers are ashore. You’ll often find significant discounts and a more peaceful experience with the facilities nearly to yourself.

18. Document Your Journey

Solo travel offers unique opportunities for reflection. Bring a journal to capture your thoughts, experiences, and the interesting people you meet. Future you will treasure this record of your adventure.

19. Pack Conversation Starters

Photos from previous travels, unique accessories, or even a deck of cards can serve as natural conversation starters. These small items can help bridge the gap when meeting new people.

20. Book Your Next Cruise Onboard

If you’ve enjoyed your solo cruise experience, consider booking your next adventure before disembarking. You’ll secure the best rates, reduced deposits, and often additional onboard credit – plus the joy of having another adventure to anticipate.

Bonus Tip: Ask About Solo Events

Beyond the initial meetup, many ships host ongoing solo gatherings that might not be prominently advertised. Ask your cruise director if there are additional solo events or informal gatherings planned throughout the voyage.

Embrace the Adventure of Solo Cruising

Solo cruising represents one of travel’s most rewarding experiences – a perfect balance of freedom and connection, adventure and relaxation, self-discovery and new friendships. With the right preparation and mindset, your solo cruise can become not just a vacation, but a transformative journey.

The end of each day brings new perspectives and memories that are uniquely yours

Remember that thousands of people cruise solo every day. The cruise industry has evolved to welcome independent travelers with open arms, creating spaces, activities, and communities that make sailing alone an increasingly attractive option.

Whether you’re considering your first solo adventure or you’re a seasoned independent traveler, I hope these tips help you navigate the wonderful world of solo cruising with confidence. The ocean is calling – and this time, the journey is all yours.