I was tired of the apps, the awkward first dates, and the same Friday nights on repeat. So I did something different—I booked a cruise… alone. And let me tell you, it wasn’t just a vacation. It was a reset. I met people without swiping, danced under the stars, and discovered a version of solo travel that felt fun, free, and unexpectedly romantic.
Cruising solo doesn’t mean being alone. In fact, it’s one of the easiest ways to connect, unwind, and live in the moment without any pressure. From themed parties to dedicated solo lounges, the right cruise can make it feel like the universe is giving you a little nudge toward something amazing.
The Cruise Lines I Recommend to Every Single Traveler I Know
Not all cruise lines treat solo travelers the same. Some ships roll out the welcome mat with solo cabins, social events, and activities designed to help you connect. Others charge you extra just for cruising alone, adding what’s called a single supplement that can nearly double the cost of your trip.
Even solo cabins can come with a catch. While they sound like a money-saver, they sometimes include extra fees that make them almost as pricey as a regular room. That’s why picking the right cruise line can completely shape your solo experience.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Where Solo Travelers Instantly Feel at Home
If you’re cruising solo, Norwegian Cruise Line is practically made for you. NCL consistently tops the charts for “Best Singles Cruises”—and for good reason. Their Studio staterooms are stylish, budget-friendly, and give you exclusive access to the private Studio Lounge, where solo travelers can mingle, sip cocktails, and join daily meetups that feel more like a hangout than a formal event.
The vibe? One solo cruiser described it as “a laid-back community within a community,” where the crew genuinely looks out for you. From flexible dining to dedicated solo hosts, NCL makes it easy to feel included—and score great solo rates without paying double.
Virgin Voyages: The Adults-Only Playground Perfect for Singles
Virgin Voyages isn’t just adult-only—it’s a dream playground for singles who want modern vibes, freedom, and a seriously social scene. From the moment you board, there’s a first-night singles meetup and dinner designed to spark connections fast. The energy onboard? Think edgy, electric, and effortlessly cool—with parties, pop-up events, and zero pressure to couple up.
Solo cruisers rave about the chic, spacious staterooms—some say they’re the best they’ve had at sea. And if you’re lucky enough to snag a front-facing solo cabin, the ocean views are unreal (just know it can get a little bumpy when the waves kick in).
Royal Caribbean: Big Ship Energy With Solo Travel Perks
If you’re cruising solo and want ocean views or even your own balcony, Royal Caribbean delivers. Their solo cabins go beyond basic interiors—giving you room to breathe and a front-row seat to the sea. While there’s no official singles lounge like on NCL, the vibrant bar scene more than makes up for it.
From rooftop cocktails to silent discos, Royal ships are buzzing with ways to meet other solo travelers—no awkward icebreakers needed. If you’re looking for a big-ship adventure with space to connect, flirt, or just vibe on your own terms, Royal Caribbean is worth a serious look.
Carnival Cruise Line: The Party Line Singles Keep Coming Back To
If you’re a solo traveler chasing nonstop fun, Carnival Cruises might be your perfect match. Known for its high-energy vibe and ultra-social crowd, Carnival is one of the best lines for singles who want to mingle, dance, and dive into the party from day one. Cruise forums are full of stories from solo travelers who made instant connections and unforgettable memories.
That said, go in prepared: there are no discounts for going solo, so you’ll likely pay nearly double the fare—but you’ll only be charged gratuities and taxes for one. And if you’re after a more balanced experience, skip the ultra-short trips.
Celebrity Cruises: Where Solo Travel Meets Luxury and Freedom
If you’re craving a solo cruise that feels sleek, stylish, and a little indulgent, the Celebrity Edge-class ships deliver in spades. Their solo cabins—especially the Infinite Veranda staterooms—are a hit with single travelers who want ocean views and upscale comfort all to themselves.
While Celebrity doesn’t offer many structured solo events, that hasn’t stopped most singles from loving the experience. The vibe onboard is relaxed yet refined, and hotspots like the Sunset Bar and Martini Bar make it easy to spark conversations naturally. Add in flexible dining and you’ve got a solo sailing that feels effortlessly social and luxuriously yours.
MSC Cruises: Stylish, Budget-Friendly, and Surprisingly Social
MSC Cruises might just be one of the best-kept secrets for single travelers. Select ships feature solo-friendly cabins—ranging from cozy interiors to ocean view staterooms—and the vibe onboard is a lively mix of cultures, music, and energy. While you won’t find a packed schedule of singles-only events, there are occasional themed parties and welcome cocktails that make it easy to mingle.
What really grabs attention, though, are the prices. Many solo cruisers rave about MSC’s unbeatable fares—one traveler said their cruise was over $1,000 cheaper than sailing solo with Celebrity. Others call MSC the best value-for-money line for singles… if you can snag one of their limited solo deals in time.
Windstar Cruises: Small Ships, Big Possibilities for Solo Travelers
Windstar Cruises brings a different kind of energy to solo cruising—elegant, intimate, and refreshingly relaxed. With fewer than 350 guests on board, it feels more like a boutique hotel at sea than a floating mega-resort. You’ll spot familiar faces during excursions, wine tastings, and open-seating dinners, making it easy to form natural connections.
Windstar also offers reduced single supplements, often around 120% of the standard fare, so you’re not paying double just to cruise solo. While dedicated singles programming isn’t a focus, they do occasionally host solo traveler events depending on the sailing. The crowd tends to skew older and more laid-back, which is something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a younger party vibe.
Silversea: Small Ships, Big Comfort, and Low Solo Supplements
If you’re craving luxury and connection, Silversea might be your dream singles cruise. These ultra-luxe small ships make it feel like you’re sailing with a group of new friends rather than a sea of strangers. While Silversea doesn’t offer dedicated solo cabins, they frequently drop single supplements to as low as 25% on select voyages.
The crew goes out of their way to make solo travelers feel welcome, with mixers and thoughtful touches that encourage mingling. One guest shared that the lounge before dinner becomes a social hub where conversations spark easily and new friendships are born. If you want sophistication without sacrificing connection, Silversea is one of the most rewarding surprises at sea.
Azamara: Low-Key Luxury That Solo Travelers Love
Azamara is a hidden gem for single cruisers who crave upscale experiences without feeling lost in a crowd. The ships are intimate, the vibe is refined, and while there are no official solo events or cabins, making connections feels natural. One solo traveler raved about how the small ship size and open-seating dining made it easy to meet like-minded guests without the pressure.
Even better? Azamara’s single supplements can dip as low as 25%—a rare find in the luxury cruise space. And with so much included in the fare (think gratuities, select drinks, and cultural events), many cruisers say it feels like a five-star getaway made for one.
Ready to Mingle? These Cruise Itineraries Are Perfect for Singles
As a solo traveler, I quickly learned that the right cruise line and itinerary can make or break the experience. My first trip—a five-night Marella Explorer 2 sailing—was the perfect mix of connection and relaxation.
If you’re cruising solo, these itineraries are some of the best out there for fun, freedom, and meeting like-minded people.
Short Party Cruises (3–5 Days of Nonstop Fun)
Looking to let loose and meet people fast? Three- to five-day itineraries—especially to the Bahamas or Mexico—are ideal for high-energy solo travelers. One cruiser shared how their Carnival Jubilee sailing felt like a party from start to finish: “I never felt alone—not even for five minutes.”
Short cruises tend to attract a younger, livelier crowd, which means lots of dancing, pool games, and after-dark antics.
Themed Music Cruises (Find Your People Through the Playlist)
Love music? A themed music cruise might be your dream vacation. These voyages are filled with like-minded fans, making conversation effortless. One cruiser told me how they bonded instantly with fellow passengers on a Jon Bon Jovi cruise from Miami to Nassau—and still keeps in touch with them years later.
From 70s rock to EDM to jazz, there’s a cruise for every music lover. These are perfect for solos who want connection with a shared interest.
Wellness & Adventure Cruises (For the Self-Growth Seeker)
Want to return from your cruise better than when you boarded? Wellness and adventure itineraries cater to those seeking inner peace, outdoor thrills, or both. Think sunrise yoga on the deck, hiking excursions in Iceland, or kayaking in Alaska.
These cruises attract solo travelers who value personal growth, making it easy to connect with others on a similar path.
Niche & Pop Culture Cruises (The Ultimate Icebreaker)
Whether you’re into Star Trek, Halloween cosplay, or gothic fashion, niche cruises offer an instant sense of community. No small talk needed—you already have common ground.
One traveler said themed cruises made it “easier to find their tribe,” and they came home with more than souvenirs—lifelong friendships, and sometimes more.
Pro Tip: Let a Travel Agent Match You to the Perfect Itinerary
A seasoned cruiser once told me their secret: “Find a travel agent who knows singles cruises. They’ll match your vibe better than any algorithm.” Agents know which sailings have the best solo-friendly demographics, cabins, and events—whether you’re looking for flirty, chill, romantic, or off-the-grid.
Common Questions About Cruising Solo (That Could Save You Money and Regret)
Thinking about taking a cruise on your own? You’re not the only one. More and more travelers are discovering that cruising solo can be incredibly rewarding—if you know what to expect.
From how to avoid paying extra to tips on meeting people and staying safe, these common questions can help you cruise smarter, save money, and actually enjoy the freedom of traveling on your terms.
Why do so many singles love cruising alone?
Because it’s freedom without compromise. You can wake up late, skip the excursions, or join every trivia night—your time is fully yours. No waiting for a partner to get ready or arguing over dinner choices. One cruiser said it best: “The only person you have to please is yourself.”
Plus, cruising bundles everything into one package—accommodation, meals, entertainment, and travel—so you’re never stuck figuring things out alone. For many singles, it’s even better than a resort because of the built-in structure and the ease of joining social events if you feel like it.
Can I actually meet people—or will I feel awkward and alone?
You won’t be the only single onboard. Many cruise lines (like NCL) cater specifically to solo travelers with dedicated lounges, meetups, and social coordinators. Even without official events, shared dining tables, excursions, and activities make it easy to strike up conversations.
Before the cruise, I recommend joining some Facebook groups or Cruise Critic roll calls to connect with others on the same sailing. Some even plan pre-cruise meetups or excursions together, which makes things feel more natural from day one.
How safe is it to cruise solo—and are there any tips?
Cruise ships are widely considered safer than most resorts or city hotels. There are cameras everywhere, attentive staff, and security protocols. Many solo travelers say they feel totally comfortable walking the decks late at night or attending events alone.
Still, it pays to stay aware. Don’t overdo it on the alcohol, watch your drinks, and never invite strangers into your cabin. On shore, stick with official excursions or busy areas—and always trust your gut if a place feels off.
What about awkward moments like dining alone or attending events by myself?
Honestly, most people won’t bat an eye. You can request to sit at shared tables or enjoy peaceful meals with a book. Some solo cruisers bring a sweater to save their seat at shows or buffets—small hacks that make things smoother.
If you’re open to mingling, group activities like classes, workouts, and theme nights are gold. And for those looking for more than just friendship? Yes, dating apps work on board—and sometimes before the ship even sails.
What’s the deal with single supplements—and how do I avoid them?
Single supplements are the extra cost charged when one person books a cabin meant for two. They can add 100% or more to your fare—but many lines now offer ways to work around them. You’ll find solo cabins on NCL, reduced supplement deals on certain sailings, and small-ship lines that often don’t charge extra for singles.
Look for “second guest sails free” deals and just cruise solo, or book early to snag limited solo cabins. Some savvy travelers even work with a cruise-specialist travel agent to hunt down solo-friendly promos.
What are the best ways to save money and make the most of the trip?
Book early to lock in solo cabins or deals. Watch for last-minute sales or flash discounts that waive supplements entirely. Some cruisers even book a double room during 50% off promotions and just go alone.
Before sailing, connect with others through roll calls or Facebook. The more you plan your vibe—quiet retreat, social fun, or a mix—the better your cruise will be. A little prep goes a long way toward making singles cruising feel effortless.
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