Solo Cruise Tips: Best Ships & Safety Advice

📅 July 15, 2025 | 🏷️ Cruise Passenger Guides: By Age, Group & Travel Style

Solo Cruise: Complete Guide to Ships, Tips, and Safety 🚢Thinking about venturing out on a cruise by yourself? Solo cruising is becoming increasingly popular, offering a unique freedom to explore the world at your own pace, make new friends, and enjoy a relaxing escape exactly how you want it. While the idea of traveling solo at sea might seem intimidating at first, with the right information and tips, a solo cruise can be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. This comprehensive guide will give you all the secrets to choosing the best ship, how to avoid the “solo supplement,” and most importantly, how to stay safe and have the most fun. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, on your own terms! 🚀

🛳️ Choosing the Right Ship for a Solo Cruise

Not all cruise ships are created equal when it comes to solo travelers. Some companies and ships are far more friendly and better equipped to accommodate individual guests. Here are the key aspects to consider:

Special Cabins for Solo Travelers:

Studios: More and more cruise lines, especially **Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)**, offer cabins specifically designed for solo travelers, often called “studios.” These are smaller, have a modern design, and most importantly, are priced per person, not per cabin, eliminating the “solo supplement.”
Exclusive Solo Lounges: Some ships with studios, like NCL’s Epic-class ships, provide access to private lounges dedicated to solo travelers, where you can meet and socialize with other individual passengers.

Recommended Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers:

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The undisputed leader in offering solo cabins and dedicated social spaces. Perfect if you want to meet other solo travelers.
Royal Caribbean: Also offers some solo cabins on certain ships and has a vibrant atmosphere with many activities and places to socialize.
Holland America Line: An excellent option for solo travelers seeking a more refined and relaxed experience, with dedicated solo events (e.g., communal dining).
Cunard Line: Ideal for solo travelers who prefer a luxurious, traditional experience. They have solo cabins and encourage elegant socialization.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines (UK): Very popular in the UK, with a large number of solo cabins and a welcoming atmosphere, featuring communal dining and events.

How to Avoid the Single Supplement:

This fee is levied by cruise lines because you’re occupying a cabin typically designed for two passengers. Here’s how you can avoid or minimize it:

Choose Ships with Studios: These are designed and priced for single occupancy.
Look for Special Offers: Sometimes, cruise lines offer promotions with reduced or even waived solo supplements, especially during off-peak seasons. Subscribe to newsletters and stay alert for deals!
Consider Luxury River Cruises: Some river cruise companies, like AmaWaterways, occasionally have reduced solo traveler rates on specific departures.
Book Early or Last-Minute: Both strategies can work. Booking early ensures you get a solo cabin (if available), while last-minute deals might appear if the ship hasn’t filled up.

💡 Tips for a Memorable Solo Experience

Once you’ve chosen your ship, here’s how to ensure you have a fantastic solo experience.

Socializing and Making New Friends:

Attend Solo Events: Many ships organize meet-ups for solo travelers. This is the easiest way to meet people.
Communal Dining Options: Check if the ship offers communal dining options (“single’s table”). It’s a great way to socialize during dinner.
Bars and Lounges: Be open to conversations in bars or lounges. People on cruises are often eager to socialize.
Facebook Groups: Look for Facebook groups dedicated to your specific cruise. You can meet people even before you board.
Shore Excursions: Participate in organized ship excursions. You’ll spend time with other passengers and have common topics to discuss.
Onboard Activities: Join group activities – games, dance classes, wine tastings, cooking classes. These are excellent opportunities to connect.

Enjoying Your Solo Time:

Time with Yourself: Don’t feel pressured to socialize non-stop. Enjoy the peace and quiet of being alone – read a book on deck, savor a coffee with an ocean view, meditate.
Explore at Your Own Pace: At port calls, you have the freedom to explore exactly what interests you, without compromise.
Treat Yourself: A solo cruise is the perfect opportunity to indulge. Book a spa day, a special dinner at a specialty restaurant, or a beauty treatment.

🔒 Essential Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Safety is paramount, especially when traveling alone. Here are some key tips to keep yourself safe onboard and ashore.

Onboard Safety:

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Maintain a vigilant attitude, especially in the evenings.
Don’t Leave Drinks Unattended: A golden rule, no matter where you are.
Inform Someone: Tell a trusted family member or friend your itinerary and check in with them periodically.
Lock Your Cabin Door: Always ensure your cabin door is locked. Use the peephole before opening.
Ship Staff: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from ship staff if you feel uncomfortable or need assistance.

Shore Safety:

Research Destinations: Inform yourself about safe areas to explore in each port and any local warnings.
Maintain a Low Profile: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large sums of money. Be mindful of your surroundings.
Be Mindful of Alcohol: Consume alcohol in moderation, especially when you are alone in unfamiliar ports.
Use Safe Transportation: Use licensed taxis or transportation organized by the cruise line.
Contact Information: Carry the ship’s address and phone number, as well as your embassy’s/consulate’s contact information.
Plan Your Return: Make sure you know how to get back to the ship well before the departure time. Don’t rely on the last minute.

Useful Tricks: Use tracking apps (e.g., Glympse) to allow friends to see your real-time location. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. 🔒

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Solo Cruises

1. Is it boring to go on a cruise alone?

Absolutely not! Cruises are full of activities and opportunities to socialize. Many solo travelers find it even easier to make new friends and enjoy complete freedom.

2. What’s the best way to avoid the solo supplement?

Look for cruise lines that offer dedicated “studio” cabins for solo travelers (e.g., Norwegian Cruise Line) or watch for special promotions with reduced or waived supplements, especially during off-peak seasons.

3. Are solo cruises safe for women?

Yes, cruises are generally very safe, with strict security measures onboard. By applying the safety tips mentioned (be aware of surroundings, inform someone of your plans, use safe transportation in ports), you can enjoy a safe and pleasant experience.

4. What should I pack specifically for a solo cruise?

Besides essentials, consider a universal adapter, a portable phone charger, a journal, books, and perhaps a small camera. Don’t forget personal medications and copies of important documents.

Conclusion

A solo cruise is an incredible opportunity to rediscover yourself, meet new people, and explore the world on your own terms. With the right ship planning, strategies to avoid the solo supplement, and adherence to safety tips, you’ll have a vacation that’s not only worry-free but also full of adventure and personal fulfillment. Embrace the freedom of traveling alone and get ready for an unforgettable experience! 🤩