If you’re thinking about taking a cruise by yourself, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from booking the right ship to making the most of life onboard.
Cruising solo can feel like a big step, especially if it’s your first time. Being on a ship full of couples, families and groups might sound daunting at first, but solo cruising has so many upsides that it’s well worth trying. You’ll have the freedom to spend your days exactly how you want, the chance to meet new people if you choose to, and the space to simply enjoy travelling at your own pace.
With a bit of preparation, solo cruising is not just possible, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel. In this post I’ll share my top tips, based on my own solo sailings, to help you feel confident and and ready to enjoy the experience.
At a glance
- Choose your cruise line carefully
- Look for ships with solo cabins
- Select the right itinerary
- Book early (when you can)
- Keep an eye out for low or no solo supplement fares
- Tell a trusted contact where and when you are cruising
- Attend solo meet-ups onboard
- Consider a shared table at dinner
- Join in the onboard activities
- Take cruise line excursions
- Expect a few lonely moments
- Don’t be surprised if you want to book more solo cruises!
Booking a solo cruise – tips & tricks
Choose your cruise line carefully
While more and more cruise lines are catering for solo cruisers it is still important to do your research before you book. Cruise lines differ a lot in style. Some cater for families, some for adults only, and the onboard vibe can vary depending on the typical age group, entertainment style, and itinerary.
Think about what kind of environment you’ll feel most comfortable in. Do you want a fun, action-packed ship with non-stop activities? Or something more refined and relaxed? There’s no right or wrong, just what suits you.
The great thing about cruises is both those options are available as well as everything in between.
Look for ships with solo cabins
More ships now include dedicated solo cabins in their design, and some older ships are being retrofitted with them. They’re usually compact – Virgin Voyages I’m looking at you! – but designed well for solo use. Be warned though, because there are only a few, they often sell out quickly and can come at a premium.
In some cases, it’s actually cheaper to book a regular cabin at single occupancy, and you’ll often get more space too. So, you need to keep your wits about you and always compare options before booking.
If you do want to go down the solo cabin route regardless- and I did this on a recent cruise as it was the cabin that suited my requirements the most – then it is best to book as soon as you can.
Pick the right itinerary
One of the best bits about solo cruising is not having to compromise. If there’s somewhere you’ve always wanted to go you can go.
That said, think about the balance of sea days vs port days. Sea days can be lovely and relaxing, but too many in a row can be a bit tough when you’re travelling solo.
Also consider time of year, some ships and destinations are busier with families during school holidays.
Book early (if you can)
Once you’ve found the perfect itinerary then book it as soon as you can. Solo cabins are limited and popular, so if you see one on a sailing you like, it’s worth booking early.
That said, I’ve picked up some brilliant last-minute solo deals in the past too. Once I unexpectedly found myself with some time off and managed to bag a late deal at an amazing price on P&O Cruise’s Iona just a few weeks before departure.
So, if you’re flexible and happy to travel at short notice, it can pay off to wait. But if you’ve got your heart set on a certain ship or itinerary, early booking gives you the best choice of cabins and price.
Watch for fares with no or low solo supplements
Cruising solo can sometimes mean paying more, mainly because cabins are priced for two. If you are travelling as a solo, the cruise company will likely charge extra to make up for the loss of revenue it would have received if two people were in the cabin. While you can understand why they do this, it is more than a little annoying having to pay up to twice the standard fare for solo occupancy.
But some cruise lines offer reduced or waived solo supplements on selected sailings or as part of promotions. It is worth keeping your eyes peeled for these deals as they make cruising solo much more affordable. I’ve managed to take two cruises (so far), where the solo supplement was dropped completely and it made a huge difference in the cost of the cruise.
Share your plans with someone at home
Just like travelling alone cruising solo is also not without its risks. Make sure someone you trust knows where and when you’re cruising. You’ll need to provide an emergency contact anyway, so choose someone you can check in with occasionally too.
I always have someone I can check in with at home every so often just as an extra bit of reassurance. These days it is super easy to keep in touch with people so it usually takes the form of sending a few updates and photos but it just means someone knows you are ok.
Life onboard as a solo cruiser
Pop along to the solo meet up
Most cruise lines will organise a daily (or occasional) meet-up for solo cruisers. They are a great opportunity to meet other passengers cruising by themselves. Check the daily planner for details.
They’re usually informal, sometimes hosted, sometimes not. These meet-ups can be difficult to find when they are unhosted. I’ve had a few awkward situations where I’ve had to go around asking groups of people if they are the solo meet up but it is worth persevering if this happens to you
I’ve met some great people at these meet-ups, and even if you only chat for five minutes, it’s a good way to break the ice. It can also be reassuring to know there is a time and place you can go to if you wish to have some company.
Try a shared table in the dining room
If you’re not keen on eating alone every night (or want to avoid the easy option of going to the buffet every night!), ask to be seated at a shared table in the main dining room. This is where you will be seated on a large table with other cruise passengers. Some ships have tables just for solo travellers, others mix solos in with couples or groups.
It took me a few cruises to try this but once I did, I wondered why I hadn’t sooner. It’s a relaxed way to meet people, and you might find some great dinner companions. I’ve met some great people, even if only for a couple of hours, and it was nice to have people to chat to over dinner and breakfast.
Join in onboard activities
Cruise ships are packed with things to do. Quizzes, games, workshops, tastings, there’s something for everyone.
You don’t have to take part in everything, but joining an activity or two can help break up the day and give you an easy way to chat with others. I’ve often found people will ask you to join their team or have a chat.
Consider booking a shore excursion
Exploring ports on your own can be fun, but group excursions offer an easy, safe way to see the sights and often lead to a bit of company too. and perhaps someone to take some photos of you in whatever amazing destination you are in!
I’ve done a few excursions where I’ve spent the day with people and then ended up bumping into them again on the ship and being asked to join them for dinner or a drink so it can be another good way to meet people
Another good reason to take a shore excursion is that the ship won’t leave without you if you’re on one of their official tours, which is always reassuring!
Be ready for the odd lonely moment
This won’t apply to everyone but don’t be surprised if you get the odd pang of loneliness. Solo cruising is great but it’s still normal to feel a bit lonely now and again, especially if you’re surrounded by couples or families.
That feeling usually passes quickly. When it hits, I grab a cuppa, find a quiet corner or a friendly face, and remind myself that the freedom I have to travel like this is something to be proud of and worth the odd low moment.
The Last Word
Solo cruising is a brilliant way to see the world on your own terms. It might take a bit more planning, but it’s worth it for the flexibility, the people you’ll meet, and the confidence boost it gives you.
Whether it’s finding the right cruise line, saving money on fares, or just knowing where to find a bit of company when you need it, I hope these tips help you have an amazing solo cruise experience.
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