SOLO CRUISE TIPS

The Dreaded Single Supplement- Not only is the single supplement a reminder that you don’t have a companion to share the vacation with, they are now charging you more because of it. Most cruise lines don’t offer cabins for one, or the ones that they do have a book up extremely quick! The best way to look for a cruise on the single supplement is to shop around as much as you can as they charges vary between lines. You can also risk it a little and wait until last minute to see if the line will offer solo discounts, however, this is a gamble as sometimes they just sell out, to begin with.

Cabin sharing- Cabin sharing might not be everyone’s forte, but it does mean that you can save a little. Cabin sharing is your request to be booked with a same-sex roommate, and if you find a match, you don’t have to pay the single supplement. This isn’t done through the cruise line, but with a roommate matching service where you would u tip your travel plans and information and see if you can find a match.

Studio cabins- Norwegian ships like the Escape, Getaway, Breakaway, Epic and Bliss offer studio cabins and are priced for single occupancy as well as a studio lounge in that area of the ship. Royal Caribbean offers 28 studio cabins on each of its Quantum-class ships that include “virtual balconies”, large floor to ceiling LED screens that project real-time ocean views to feel less claustrophobic. Holland America also offers some single designate rooms, as well as Cunard and Celebrity’s new Celebrity Edge, with a whopping 116 solo rooms each with a balcony.

Get involved- The best way to enjoy your solo cruise is to participate in the activities. This will make connections with others and maybe even find another solo traveler. Making friends with the cruise director is also a good idea, they might be able to help you find someone else traveling solo.

Compatible dinner parties- If you choose onboard dining with assigned dining and time slots, you will be dining with the same people, making it easy make some friends. There are options to maybe sit with other solo travelers. If you choose the flex dinner option, just request to sit with other people rather than alone. 

Theme Cruises- Choosing theme cruises to try to connect with other passengers is always a good idea. Having similar interests is easier to connect with people and the staff onboard.