Cruising isn’t just for couples, families, or groups—solo travelers are increasingly setting sail to enjoy the freedom, flexibility, and adventure that come with cruising alone. With many cruise lines now catering to individual travelers, going solo at sea is easier (and more rewarding) than ever. Here’s what you need to know before booking your solo cruise, plus tips to make the most of your experience and budget.
Why solo cruising is on the rise
- Built-in community: Cruises naturally bring people together, with shared dining tables, activities, and excursions that make it easy to meet others.
- No need to compromise: Want to sleep in, skip the formal night, or go on that off-the-beaten-path shore excursion? Solo cruising gives you total control.
- Safe and convenient travel: Cruise ships are secure, organized, and take care of the logistics, making them ideal for travelers navigating solo for the first time.
Which cruise lines are best for solo travelers?
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): One of the first to cater to solo travelers, NCL offers Studio Cabins designed for one person with access to a solo travelers’ lounge and events.
- Holland America Line: Offers Single Partner Program discounts and hosted solo traveler meetups,
- Cunard Line: Known for elegant voyages and traditional cruising, Cunard welcomes solo guests with assigned dining and group activities.
Solo cruise booking tips
- Look for studio or solo cabins
Some newer ships offer rooms built specifically for single occupancy, avoiding the dreaded “single supplement.” These cabins are typically smaller and priced without the double occupancy premium. - Cruise during shoulder season
Solo travelers can find better deals when ships are less full. Consider sailing during May or September for lower fares and fewer crowds. - Join social events onboard
Most cruise lines host solo traveler meetups, cocktail hours, and excursions designed for individual guests. It’s a great way to make connections while maintaining your independence. - Use your freedom to try everything
Dine at specialty restaurants without worrying about reservations for a group. Book last-minute spa treatments, attend enrichment lectures, or relax at adult-only retreats.
How to save on your solo cruise
Cruising alone can be more expensive due to per-person pricing models. However, you can minimize costs with the right strategies:
- Look for solo promotions: Some lines waive single supplements on select sailings—keep an eye on CruiseCritic Deals and VacationsToGo.
- Book early for solo cabins: Studio rooms are limited and sell out fast.
- Use cashback tools for pre-cruise savings: Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer rewards for pre-cruise purchases such as travel gear, transportation, and hotels.
- If sailing with Carnival, consider purchasing your cruise fare using a Carnival gift card from Fluz to earn cashback while booking the same way you normally would.
Visit the Fluz homepage to explore other cashback options that can reduce the total cost of your solo journey.
