The 5 best cruises for solo travelers
Ready to chart your own course? A solo cruise is your chance to break free, recharge, and dive into making new connections. Solo cruising is on the rise, and cruise lines are listening—making it easier than ever to sail solo in 2025 and beyond.
Historically, solo travelers faced the challenge of single supplements, an extra fee charged for occupying a cabin designed for two. But cruise lines are now introducing more options tailored for solo adventurers, eliminating or reducing these fees and offering dedicated single cabins.
The best cruises for solo travelers now feature thoughtfully designed cabins, exciting activities, and endless opportunities to connect with fellow explorers. We’ve rounded up the best cruise lines for solo travelers, and with Cruisebound, you’ll always find the best options to make your solo journey unforgettable.
On this page:
- Best cruises for solo travelers
- Royal Caribbean International: Your playground on the waves
- Norwegian Cruise Line: The social navigator's dream
- Holland America Line: Elegance meets connection
- Virgin Voyages: Bold, adult-only cruising for the independent spirit
- Cunard Line cruises for solo travelers: Classic luxury for the independent spirit
- Smart solo sailing: Cruisebound tips
Planning your solo adventure? Browse solo-friendly cruises:
Best cruises for solo travelers
1. Royal Caribbean International cruises for solo travelers: Your playground on the waves
Royal Caribbean redefines solo cruising and when cruising their ships you’ll find innovative accommodations and endless onboard activities. Their ships rank among the best cruise ships for solo travelers, offering a seamless blend of independence and community. Whether you're planning for this year or already looking ahead to the best solo cruises 2025, Cruisebound has you covered by offering Royal Caribbean and other solo friendly lines.
What makes it special:
- Studio staterooms with no single-supplements on ships like Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Ovation of the Seas
- Floor-to-ceiling LED displays projecting live ocean and port images
Singles-friendly activities including scuba lessons, wine tastings, and cooking classes - Flexible dining options with the 'My Time Dining' program for group or solo settings
- Group fitness activities to energize your day
- Some single rooms feature open-air balconies
If you’re craving the stunning vistas of Alaska, Royal Caribbean offers one of the best Alaska cruises for solo travelers, with itineraries taking you through glorious glacial landscapes.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line cruises for solo travelers: The social navigator's dream
Norwegian Cruise Line leads the way with its innovative studio cabins and a community-focused atmosphere. Their commitment makes them one of the best cruise lines for solo travelers wishing to socialize with other passengers.
Norwegian’s solo-friendly highlights:
- Studio cabins on ships like Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Viva, and Norwegian Prima are priced for solo travelers without extra supplements
- Cozy studios come with everything a solo traveler needs, including a full-size bed, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, corridor-view windows (or a virtual ocean view on Norwegian Bliss), and customizable ambient lighting
- Enjoy exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, featuring a large-screen TV, coffee stations, and bartenders available during select hours
- Hosted gatherings, pub crawls, and pre-dinner socials
These features make Norwegian ideal for those looking for best solo cruise deals without sacrificing comfort or community. Onboard activities foster natural connections, making this one of the best cruises for solo travelers in 2025 and beyond.
3. Holland America Line cruises for solo travelers: Elegance meets connection
For travelers who value sophistication, Holland America offers some of the best solo cruises, blending refined experiences with plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded travelers.
Why choose Holland America for solo cruising:
- Ocean-view single cabins on Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam
- Culinary workshops and wine blending sessions that encourage interaction
- Hosted solo traveler events, including pre-dinner gatherings
- Innovative ‘Singles Partner Program’ pairs solo travelers with others to share the cruise experience
- Some ships have dedicated solo cabins with ocean views
- Optional dining choices include dining with other passengers for a shared meal
Holland America also boasts one of the best Antarctica cruises for solo travelers, combining breathtaking natural beauty with intimate onboard activities. It’s a great choice for cruisers seeking the best cruise for solo travel with a touch of luxury.
4. Virgin Voyages cruises for solo travelers: Bold, adult-only cruising for the independent spirit
Ready to cruise on your terms? Virgin Voyages brings solo travel to life with its vibrant, adult-only atmosphere and cutting-edge design, making every moment unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to relax, connect, or dive into non-stop entertainment, this is solo cruising with a twist.
Virgin Voyages highlights:
- All four Virgin Voyages ships—Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady—feature stylish solo cabins designed specifically for independent travelers
- Choose between the 105-square-foot Solo Insider cabins or the Solo Sea View cabins, each featuring a full-size bed, mood lighting, and a chic, modern design
- Curated events like group fitness classes, mixology workshops, and solo traveler meetups foster connections in a lively setting
- Over 20 dining venues with menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, complimentary fitness classes, Wi-Fi, and gratuities included
- On-demand entertainment with live performances, DJs, and spontaneous pop-up events
- Eco-conscious initiatives, including no single-use plastics onboard
Virgin's bold approach to cruising creates a dynamic and inclusive environment perfect for solo travelers looking for a unique and engaging experience.
5. Cunard Line cruises for solo travelers: Classic luxury for the independent spirit
Cunard epitomizes timeless elegance and makes solo travel a celebration of independence. Their ships are among the best solo cruise lines, catering to travelers who enjoy classic luxury.
Cunard’s solo perks:
- Single-occupancy staterooms on Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria
- Tailored social events like coffee meetups and ballroom dances
- Gentleman hosts for dining and dancing
- 24-hour complimentary room service option
- Special performances such as planetarium shows on Queen Mary 2 or theatrical workshops
- Table assignments for dining with other singles in the Britannia Restaurant
Cunard offers the best solar eclipse cruise 2026, blending the excitement of a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event with an unforgettable travel experience. Perfect for curious and adventurous explorers, this cruise offers expert-led discussions on the science behind the eclipse, fun group activities to connect with like-minded travelers, and access to prime viewing spots for an awe-inspiring moment. It’s more than just a cruise—it’s an opportunity to explore new destinations while witnessing a rare phenomenon that will leave you with stories to share for years to come.
Cruisebound tips: Solo cruising tips
Make the most of your solo cruise with our expert tips crafted from firsthand cruising experience:
🛟 Choose local departure ports to save on airfare.
🛟 Book early to secure dedicated solo cabins.
🛟 Participate in onboard activities to meet other travelers.
🛟 Explore adult-only areas for added relaxation.
🛟 Make the most of once-in-a-lifetime excursions and tours.
🛟 Book your cruise with Cruisebound for the best cruise discounts for solo travelers.
Your journey, your rules
Ready to set sail on your solo adventure? Cruisebound makes finding the best solo cruises 2025 and booking your cruise stress-free and easy. Let us help you plan the perfect journey—tailored to you, your way. Start exploring today.