The Ultimate Guide to Best Ships for Solo Travelers
Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best cruise ships for solo travelers!
If you’ve been dreaming of setting sail solo, you already know that finding the right ship can be a whole thing. The internet is full of opinions, outdated info, and folks who think solo travel means "lonely" or “single and ready to mingle” (spoiler: it does not).
Talking about the best ships for solo cruisers is important because it helps people like us feel confident stepping on that ship alone and walking off with new memories, new friends, and (let’s keep it real!) maybe even a new boo.
This post is for solo travelers of all kinds — especially my fellow women who want to travel on their terms, whether that means catching sunsets solo or hitting the dance floor with new cruise buddies. But if you’re just thinking about taking your first solo trip or trying to convince your homegirl to do it with you, you’ll still find everything you need right here.
What you can expect from this ultimate guide on the best cruise ships for solo travelers:
What solo cruising is and why it’s growing in popularity
Key features to look for in a solo-friendly ship
My top ship recommendations with personal insights and tips
Table of Contents - Click below to jump to a section or just scroll and vibe:
What Is Solo Cruising and Why Should You Care?
Solo cruising is exactly what it sounds like: hopping on a cruise ship without a travel buddy. But what it really is? Freedom, baby.
Solo cruising means doing whatever you want, whenever you want, without negotiating plans or sharing a bathroom. It’s your trip, your vibe, your way. You can recharge in peace or make new friends—you decide.
And if you’re nervous about being the only solo guest onboard, don’t worry. Cruise lines are catching on. They’re adding solo cabins, mixers, and more perks just for us independent travelers.
A (Quick) Look at the History of Solo Travel at Sea
Back in the day, cruise lines catered mostly to couples and families. If you wanted to sail solo, you usually had to pay double the fare. Rude, right?
Then came the glow-up: around the early 2010s, lines like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean started offering solo staterooms and social programs for single travelers. Virgin Voyages came in hot with a whole vibe perfect for independent adventurers.
Today, more ships are building with solo travelers in mind, offering everything from solo-specific lounges to travel hosts who help you mingle.
Key Terms You Should Know
Solo Supplement: The extra fee some cruise lines charge when you book a cabin meant for two. Boo to that.
Studio Cabin: A smaller stateroom designed for one person. Often priced without a solo supplement.
Solo Host: A staff member dedicated to organizing meetups, dinners, and activities for solo guests.
Pros and Cons of Solo Cruising
Pros of Solo Cruising
There are so many reasons to book that solo cruise:
Freedom to do you: Sleep in. Go to the spa. Skip the formal dinner. Your trip, your rules.
Meet new people: Many ships have mixers and solo meetups. Friendships and flings? Very possible.
Personal growth: Solo travel builds confidence like nothing else.
Cons of Solo Cruising (and How to Slay Anyway)
Real talk—there are a few challenges:
Cost: Some lines still charge that annoying solo supplement. Fix it: Look for ships with studio cabins or solo sales.
Awkwardness: Dining alone can feel weird at first. Fix it: Choose flexible dining or eat at the bar.
FOMO: Missing out on couple activities? Fix it: Don’t sweat it. There’s always something else poppin’.
Best Cruise Ships for Solo Travelers
Here’s the juicy part. These ships make solo travel feel luxe, safe, and so fun:
1. Norwegian Viva (and other NCL ships)
Why it slays: NCL pioneered studio cabins with a private solo lounge, and Viva keeps it modern and fresh. You get access to solo events, priority dining reservations, and freedom to be social or chill.
Bonus: NCL often runs deals with no solo supplement.
2. Virgin Voyages (any of their lady ships)
Why it slaps: No kids, no stress, and lots of group fitness, karaoke nights, and lounges that feel like grown-folks-only playgrounds. While they don’t have solo cabins yet, the social vibe makes it easy to mingle. Plus, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and food are included.
Pro tip: Go to Scarlet Night. Period.
3. Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-Class Ships (like Anthem or Odyssey of the Seas)
Why it works: They offer solo interior and balcony cabins. These ships have a mix of adventure (skydiving simulator, anyone?) and chill spaces like the Solarium.
Fun fact: You can pre-book solo meetups through the app.
4. Holland America Line (Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam)
Why it fits: Perfect for travelers who like culture and calm. Smaller ships, lots of enrichment programs, and a welcoming crowd.
Solo perk: Their Single Partner Program helps match solo travelers for dining and excursions.
5. MSC World Europa (and now MSC World America)
Why you might love it: Super-modern design and European flair. They offer solo cabins and are stepping up their U.S. game with better entertainment and dining.
Heads up: This is a huge ship, so you’ll want to plan ahead and use the app to avoid the crowds.
How to Book and Plan Your Solo Cruise
Step 1. Pick Your Dates and Budget Look for off-peak season deals (fall and early spring are 🔥 for prices).
Step 2. Choose Your Ship Look for those solo cabins or a strong solo-friendly vibe.
Step 3. Check the Itinerary Some ports are better solo than others. Big cities or beach days? You decide.
Step 4. Join Solo Travel Groups Online Search Facebook or Reddit to connect with other solo cruisers.
Step 5. Book with a Travel Advisor (like me!) We know all the solo travel hacks and hidden deals.
Pro Tips for Solo Cruisers
Book early: Studio cabins sell out fast.
Bring a power strip: Outlets are limited, boo.
Go to the solo meetups: Even if you’re shy, just try one. The vibes are usually right.
Use the app: From dinner reservations to events, the app is your bestie.
Plan excursions wisely: Small group or solo-friendly ones are best. Or treat yourself to a spa day onboard!
You've made it through the ultimate guide to cruising solo, and I hope you’re feelin' yourself just a little more now.
If I did my job right, here’s what you should know:
Solo travel isn’t lonely; it’s liberating. You get to do YOU every step of the way.
Not all cruise ships are created equal for solo travelers. Pick one with cabins, programs, and vibes that match your energy.
Planning ahead gives you the best chance at deals and comfort. Early birds get the studio cabins!
If you're thinking about booking your first solo cruise or want some guidance on the best ships and itineraries, I got you.
And if you’re ready to join one of our group sailings (but still solo-friendly), check out our upcoming trips here.
Until next time—smooth seas and good vibes, boo. ✈️✨
