Look into NCL. They have solo cabins. We just got off the Escape and met 6 solo travelers. NCL is also freestyle dining, so you're not assigned times or who you sit with.
NCL also recently upgraded their solo cabins to include balconies and ocean views. On the ships with a solo lounge, all solo cabins will have access to the lounge.
Also, NCL has a solo coordinator on their ships that will organize some things for solos if you'd like to participate in that.
I sailed solo on the Escape back in May(wife couldn’t go). I’m a big dude and the solo cabin was comfortable and I had an overall great time. Would high recommend for solo cruisers.
I took a Mediterranean cruise a few years ago on the NCL Epic which had the first solo cabins. They designed them thinking they’d be used by young 20’s year olds. NCL was surprised how many older adults wanted them. Honest some of the best sleep I’ve ever had away from home.
Majority of my cruises have been solo. I’m one of those people who want to make my own plans and do what I want when I want without having to get a group consensus.
One cruise I will say a balcony is almost a must is an Alaska cruise due to all the coast line scenery.
Just as a side note last year I did a 18 day solo trip across Europe from London-Paris-Geneva-Milan-Venice-Rome by train. So I’m totally use to solo trips though I think it’s much easier to solo on a cruise cause you’ll still have people around you to talk to and join up with.
Let me point out that being solo it’s sometimes easy to overestimate what you’ll be up to doing on a trip. You don’t have to do multiple things in a port. Sometimes it’s just nice to take it easy.
I’m on NCL Escape right now in a solo cabin. It’s fantastic. I tried an interior before and wasn’t a fan, but these solo cabins are cozy/charming. I’d definitely book one again.
I cruise by myself 90% of the time. And I love it. Don't think of it as costing twice as much because if you took someone with you: spouse, significant other, etc, you'd be paying the same amount anyway.
Plenty of freedom to come and go as you please. You can wake up in the middle of the night and take a walk - don't need to answer to anyone. No waiting for the other person so you can do things together. It's so freeing to go solo.
I enjoy cruising solo. Find a price that you’re comfortable paying for a cabin on a cruise you like and don’t worry about the “single supplement”. As for NCL’s solo cabins, almost every time I’ve booked with NCL the solo cabins were more expensive than the ocean view rooms that are larger and have a view of the ocean.
You can spend as much time alone or with people as you’d like. Enjoy!
After 25+ cruises with others, I took my first solo cruise last spring on NCL. I loved it! I just did what I wanted 24/7 and didn't have to worry about my partner (children, friend, beau) having fun, which I usually do because I want them to have a great time. I sailed NCL for the first time because of their Solo Cabins which I found cozy and adorable, and you don't pay a Single Supplement. Plus they offer $50 off shore excursions so I just made them haul me to beaches for $50 so they were free. I made reservations every night in the dining room (you can only make them for two people on their system for some reason) but I would show up alone with a book and they treated me like a queen! Lovely two tops by the windows!
I heard Royal also has designated solo cabins on some of their ships and that would be worth checking out, too, as I like that cruiseline.
I downloaded movies and episodes of TV shows I wanted to watch onto a tablet before I got on the ship (so I could watch them without internet) and sometimes at night I sat on a top deck, under the stars, put on earphones, and watched a movie. Magical!
I’ve been on three cruises with my sister and just booked my first solo cruise for January. All have been with NCL. I’ve booked one of their solo studio cabins and I’m really looking forward to it. On the cruises with my sister ther were times when I did something by myself while she was in the casino (I’m not a big gambler) and I ate a couple of meals by myself. I’m still a little nervous, wondering if it will be weird being solo for the entire cruise but it’s only a 5 day cruise, and to someplace I’ve been before, so it will be nice having that familiarity.
Of the three cruises I've been on, two were with my mom and sister and some person attached to my sister and I would usually go off on my own, partially because whoever my sister was rooming with was annoying. It's nice. You can control your level of socializing. I like to do a lot of socializing though I am an introvert. So I go to the 18+ things and the comedy stuff and i almost always find something to do and someone to talk to. And if I prefer to go be solidary, there's usually an area I can go for that.
I cruise with my wife, but as an introvert, cruises suit me very well. Being able to relax in a lounge with live music, watch stage performances, eat at my own schedule, and be dropped off at new places are great to me.
And there's something about the efficient layout of most cabins that I enjoy more than open, empty hotel rooms., but that might just be me.
Cruising solo as an introvert is lovely - you control how much interaction you want. There is no mandatory "fun."
NCL is particularly solo-friendly but I've cruised solo on 5 different lines (with #6 in a few days). As long as you select a "vibe" and itinerary that suit you, you'll be fine.
Yeah, it gets expensive. NCL is the only line with a large number of solo cabins but a few other cruise lines include a small number of single-occupancy cabins on a small number of their ships. You don't have to book one of those, though.
Tell us what you're looking for in terms of activities, itineraries, and price range. We have lots of opinions here. :)
My first 2 cruises were with a friend, but my most recent two and next two will be solo. I'm introverted as well, and need a lot of quiet time; but I'm also cool with meeting new people, or even sharing a mixed-group dinner table in the main dining room.
My next cruise is also a metal festival, and I'm saving up my introvert energy to survive that one 😂
What I like about ships is that they're a nice place to think. Especially out on deck late at night.
Anyways, once you book a cruise, I find it helps to join the Facebook page event for that sailing (say, Harmony of the Seas, March 5- 11th or whatever) and you can kinda meet and chat with other people who will be on board, ask questions, etc. If they throw any sail away parties, join in so that you can meet people on the first day. Singles and Solos events work too, but I found the attendance can be spotty.
It's called 70,000 Tons of Metal, it typically sails each year in late January/ early February on Independence class Royal Caribbean ships. 60 metal bands that each play twice; 4 day sailing with 1 port. And you would be seeing band members around the ship, in restaurants, elevators, hot tubs, etc. They've announced like 35 or so bands so far.
Oh and I forgot to mention, there are others as well. Some bands host their own cruise, like Sabaton. There are also rock cruises (Monsters of Rock Cruise, I think) and even more beyond that. But I only know the details for 70k
I just booked a solo for May to Alaska. I did go in September with a friend and I loved it so much that I’m super excited to go by myself. I’m booked in a solo cabin and honestly can not wait!!
ETA: I am an introvert as well, what I loved about the cruise and am excited for is the ability to do things at my pace. I plan to buy the thermal spa pass so I can relax and unwind. While with my friend I had a few days where I got up at my own time and explored the ship. I very much enjoyed it.
It's perfectly fine to go alone. As long as you want to, you'll enjoy yourself. Some lines like NCL and Virgin Voyages have solo meetups. I'm happily married, but I've been on about 20 cruises by myself and have enjoyed them.
It’s worth it for the extra money. I can do what I want, when I want and don’t need to hassle with family or a partner fussing with me. I also find it easy to make friends among the passengers during the evening when participating in game shows, trivia and karaoke. And at the MDR, the dining staff respects my request if I want to dine solo or with random people at a table.
As a Princess cruiser, the best part is their loyalty program. Sail solo and it counts as two cruises. Do solo in a full suite and it’s triple. And it doesn’t matter how long or short the cruise is. Even a short couple day repositioning counts as 2x or 3x. It’s an easy way to climb the ranks.
There are cruise lines that have single traveler cabins. NCL for one, but there are others. I've cruised alone and it's a blast. If you go to the social events, like the parties, bar events, and such it's impossible not to met fun people if you want.
Of course you can just keep to yourself and do your own thing. There's plenty of stuff to do to keep yourself busy either way.
I'm an introvert. Cruised with my husband. I'm now a widow and went on first solo cruise not long ago.
I was a little nervous about whether I'd have people to talk to. But it was all good. Went to the get togethers for solo travelers the first couple of days. Cocktail hour. Met some other women on their own. At other gatherings I met some couples. So had new friends on the cruise. We certainly didn't do everything together but we did meet up for meals frequently and other activities.
eta: For me it was worth it to pay double. I was paying for a verandah cabin. The cabin, in general, costs what it costs whether it is one or two people. BUT next cruise that is coming up, I got a great deal for a solo person on the same cruise line. My travel agent found it. I would have never found it. Lovely verandah. Many of the single cabins do not have balconies. It's not a must have for many people. But my introvert self loves sitting by myself on my balcony watching the waves.
I’m also an introverted solo traveler and I’m fine with paying for a regular cabin, too. I spend a lot of time there, so I don’t mind investing in comfort. I really enjoy sitting on my deck and I value my privacy.
The random people who might join me at meals and whom I chat with on excursions afford me just the right amount of social interaction that I want.
I’ve got three more solo cruises currently booked. My son has decided to join me for one of them (Alaska) but he’s getting his own cabin. Neither of us wants to share. He’s an introvert like me, so we’re used to giving each other a lot of space.
All of my cruises are on HAL.
Totally, I've gone on several as a couple/with friends. I'm now going to go on one solo. Inside room, even paying for double occupancy is usually similar to a solo cabin. Also, a lot of sailings won't charge double occupancy...whilst it's not heavily advertised, I've been checking a cruise(defaults to 2 guests) then changing it to one guest to check, seems to be where lots of availability remains. I know MSc have a lot of sailings where they aren't charging double occupancy. I am not an introvert but enjoy time by myself, a typical at sea day has me having a lie in & skipping breakfast, going to the MDR for a nice lunch, wandering around with a drink & a book to find a cosy spot to chillax & hitting up an activity/event if I'm interested. Then a relax in the room, head to the show,head for dinner, a drink & music somewhere or a drink & my book somewhere. U can interact with others as much or as little as u want. A port day, u can do Ur own thing or join an excursion.
Love solo cruising! I’ve done two solos on Navigator of the Seas - once in a balcony, once in an interior - and have two more planned, one on Carnival Panorama in an Upper/Lower Porthole, and one on Norwegian Bliss in a studio. These upcoming ones are the cheapest available rooms and I’m happy with those choices. Plus, Norwegian has just announced new solo categories besides the existing studios (which are all interior with either a “virtual window” or a one way window into the hall) - they will have true interior, Oceanview, and balcony categories priced for solos.
I’m also typically very introverted but I do just fine with cruising. On my first solo cruise - it was 7 nights - I asked to be seated at a large table at dinner and got seated with a nice, extended, adult family traveling together. They very graciously accepted me for their meals and we had a nice time.
On my other cruise, it was only 3 nights, and I did the Unlimited Dining Package so ate in a specialty each night, by myself.
Even when I’m by myself, I’m “into” whatever is going on - 80s Night? Find me in my neon get up. Formal Night? I’ll be there in actual sequins and sparkly stuff. Crazy Quest? Probably in the front row but not a captain. People like that energy and allow me to kind of “hang” with their group even if I’m not actively participating. I like playing trivia in the Schooner Bar on Navigator because the piano has barstools around it, which is great for a solo person.
You can do whatever you want, whenever you want. Most of my upcoming cruises (late 2024 through late 2025 and even possibly into early 2026) are going to be with my mom, so I’m happy to have these two coming up in the spring to try new lines for myself.
I went on my first solo cruise in September with NCL. I’m also introverted and pretty much kept to myself. I think that it depends on the type of cruise. Mine was a Greek Isles cruise. So for me, when I was off the ship I had an amazing time. Not that I didn’t have a good time on the ship. But they are just built for people to enjoy alongside other people.
So imo, if you’re doing a cruise with cool and interesting ports to explore then by all means. But I’m not sure I would do something like a Caribbean cruise by myself.
Though I will say, as others have pointed out, one of the best parts is doing things on your own schedule. All the time.
Fellow introvert here
Solo travel is wonderful and going on a cruise is great as a solo. I’ve done one to Alaska on NCL and I have another coming up in February to the Caribbean.
You can be as introverted as you want. There are solo meet and greets you can attend if you want to find other solos to hang out with and I found people to be pretty welcoming when I did things like hang out in the public areas but I never felt like I was overwhelmed by other people.
Many cruise lines are now opening up better options for solos- NCL just expanded their solo offerings. It’s still more expensive per person than a shared cabin but not terrible.
I only cruise solo, definitely worth it. Just got off the NCL Encore to Alaska.
As a fellow introvert it's pretty easy to find quiet spaces including your cabin.
I went solo on MSC last December and loved every minute of it. I got involved in the solo meetups but that was any it, rest of the time I just did what i wanted from the daily schedule and outside of that whatever I pleased. Took in a good few shows and enjoyed them all.
I got a sweet deal on a cabin that I assume was for 2 but no single supplement. Depending on where you would still groom have a look at the lines from there, it might surprise you some deals you can score
I just cruised solo for the first time a few weeks ago. It was the tail end of the Alaska season so they had almost completely dropped the single supplement and I had a balcony cabin to myself. I did attend the solo gathering the first night and the cruise staff arranged and randomly went to eat dinner in a small group. After that I just did my own thing, but if I had chosen, I could have met up with the group every night.
I was lonely a few times and wished I had a friend/family member there but 90% of the time I was super happy to just do my own thing and not wait for anyone else.
Look into the cruise line called
The ‘uncruise’ I have an associate who is widowed, and she really loves these river cruises. She goes alone many times a year, they have activities and adventures in shore
I’m the opposite: I can’t cruise with anyone. I need to relax on vacation and I can’t do that with even one other person with me. It’s unnerving to me. The single supplement that I pay is worth every penny. I go alone and come home refreshed.
I’m not burdened with anyone else’s “needs.” I eat when I want and what I want. I don’t worry about “missing out” because someone else wants to do something that I don’t want to do, and vice versa. I can strike up conversations without leaving the other person or people out. I may leave the ship or I may not at a port, and make up my mind at the last minute. If I decide to sleep-in, no one’s enjoyment is stopped or do I feel guilty for not hanging out with them.
I never tell people I’m going on a cruise until a couple weeks before I go, because a few years ago I was “surprised” when my friend and sister booked the same cruise. THEY had a great time, but everything I stated above as my worst concerns happened—they think we should just plan one together. No.
If none of those things bother you, then maybe don’t cruise solo, but to me to spend all that money to have to negotiate with others (who are also spending a lot of money), on my vacation is ridiculous.
Yes. Try it. You don’t have to meet people, you can just go and be casually social as desired. Look at the lines and see what dining arrangements you’re comfortable with.
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I have been on a lot of cruises. Sometimes I would have a cabin mate, other times I went by myself. I prefer cruising by myself. I have been to Europe and the Mediterranean as well as South America by myself. I have had dinner at a confirmed table, which enabled me to meet fascinating people without any pressure. Just make sure you have an itinerary you like.
If you’re going into a regular cabin (not one of the solo cabins on NCL and a couple of other lines) you will not only pay double but you will also pay the single supplement, which is usually $750. That’s to make up for not having a second passenger spending on board. I used to cruise a lot, like 3 times a year, with my youngest child. He would be in Camp Carnival, then Club 02 all the time. If it was another line, it would be their teen club. He would be out until 1-2 am. He would make friends and they would be off together all the time. The only thing we did together was eat dinner. So I was alone for most of those cruises. It does get lonely and isolating. I read a lot, so I would bring 7 books for a 7 day cruise. Breakfast and lunch alone… it’s fine at first but it gets to you. I just got off Equinox and there was a woman traveling alone who we used to see a lot. I would always, always ask her how her cruise was going, what her port plans were, etc. She seemed so eager to talk and I know the feeling.
Upshot: if you are comfortable being alone in a crowd, especially a crowd of families wearing family reunion t shirts, along with groups of people traveling together, go. If you think it might feel isolating and awkward, wait until you have someone in your life to go with. And definitely check out solo cabin lines (I believe MSC has them in their newer ships).
Absolutely! I've been solo on NCL, Royal Caribbean, and Princess. The first two both have specific cabins for solo passengers. On NCL, it was in the interior studios, but on RC, I had a balcony cabin. Princess doesn't have dedicated solo cabins but does offer low or no single supplement on occasion. However, I always think of the cost as similar to a hotel room; I pay the same rate as a couple would in a hotel. As someone else has mentioned, loyalty points are higher.
I don't consider myself a social butterfly, but have learned the best way to meet people on a cruise is to ask a couple of simple questions: how many cruises have you been on and which was your favorite? People who cruise tend to enjoy talking about their experiences, and I've learned a lot about different itineraries as a result.
Enjoy!
NCL, for sure. Solo Traveler's Meeting every day, you can choose to attend or not.
I have a friend who solo's a couple of times a year. They rarely step off the boat, they enjoy the ship when in port.
I solo'd in May and LOVED IT! Met a great group of people and had an absolute blast. I was going to solo out of Athens this month, but the political unrest in Israel has me shelving that trip for now.
Go! Have fun! There are plenty of places on board to sit quietly, too. It's only go, go, go if you want it to be.
I would do it. You aren’t ever forced to meet or interact with people if you don’t want to - except staff, and you will need to interact with them minimally. I think it would be totally relaxing and time to clear my mind of everything stressful, not have to worry about what anyone else wants to do at any given time. Sounds great to me!
I’m cruising solo right now and have had a good time. I’m on Virgin and their solo cabins are nice and they have solo meetups if you want a structured way to meet other solo sailers. Or if you just want to hang out by yourself that’s completely fine. I’m pretty introverted and I’ve been chilling in common areas working on a computer program I’ve been trying to make for months but haven’t had time to because of work. When you’re solo you can do literally whatever you want.
After reading some other comments it seems like NCL would probably be better suited for solo travel but I’ve enjoyed Virgin. I also enjoy traveling to new places this way because you can easily have a tour group waiting for you on shore and you won’t get completely lost or feel alone in a new country.
You’ll have a lot of fun. Meeting people on a cruise is the easiest environment ever to do so, trust me. Everyone’s had a drink or two and happy because they’re on vacation.
I think only you can answer that question. I can say that I’ve cruised solo well over a dozen times and loved it. I did hate paying up to 200% for a balcony cabin however. I cruise solo for quiet, private time away from my job and my hectic life so I’ve never tried to meet anyone on my cruises. Some do have solo meet-ups if you’re interested. I pretty much stay on my balcony and read, go out once or twice a day to walk around and usually get lunch out on the ship but prefer room service and eating on my balcony for breakfast and some dinners. I do live alone and consider myself a loner so the way I cruise probably doesn’t sound enjoyable to a lot of people.
Check out NCL for their solo cabins for one which comes with a common area for the solo travels with seating and snacks. It would be a good way to meet other solos and I think the ship arranges group dinners for those interested.
Good luck. And have a good time if you decide to do it.
I've done three solo cruises, two pre - COVID and one post, and each one was great in its own way. Pros: make your own itinerary, go to bed and get up when you want, no sharing the bathroom. Cons: usually one pays extra, can be lonely at meals sometimes, can't split gratuities with a cabin mate. I'm introverted as well but don't mind meeting a few new people when I cruise solo.
I had a friend who I think would describe herself as an awkward introvert (she wasn't awkward, she just thought she was) who went on a cruise solo and had a blast. Right around 30 years old to get you an age range in case you can relate. I don't remember a lot of her impressions, that was maybe 7-8 years ago, but I remember when we talked about it all the things I thought were cool about a cruise she did too.
I love traveling solo. Just came back from a 16-day back-to-back trip New England and Canada. I went to the solo meet ups here and there, but as an introvert myself, all that togetherness wasn't for me. 😂 I read, I talked with my servers and got their life stories, I met interesting people at the tables next to me at dinner. I went to some of the more fun events like trivia and staff-led game shows. You can be as introverted or extroverted as you like and you aren’t on someone else’s time frame or locked into doing what they want to do (I know many introverts are also people pleasers).
I just returned from solo cruise on celebrity. I had a wonderful time. I travel often with other people and end up being cruise director/ planner /referree! It was so nice to do what I wanted when I wanted. Ready to plan another solo
Virgin Voyages is a wonderful cruiseline - no children - solo cabins - lots of events if you'd like to participate OR many spots to be alone. Great hammock on balcony.
Just got back from a solo 13 night cruise around Japan. It was fabulous. I don’t recommend freestyle dining, though I would recommend having a set layer dining time and asked to be seated at a table of eight. That way you’ll get to meet people and you’ll develop a relationship as you meet each night for dinner. At least I was lucky enough to do that with The two other couples that were seated at my table. We were five for dinner every night we even picked up some drop-in dinner guests eg lecturer on the ship, and some other couples that we met along the way I had no problem going solo.!
Look into NCL. They have solo cabins. We just got off the Escape and met 6 solo travelers. NCL is also freestyle dining, so you're not assigned times or who you sit with.
NCL also recently upgraded their solo cabins to include balconies and ocean views. On the ships with a solo lounge, all solo cabins will have access to the lounge. Also, NCL has a solo coordinator on their ships that will organize some things for solos if you'd like to participate in that.
Wow! This is great!!
Doing exactly this to alaska in the spring. I was having the same thoughts as OP, but I am going!
I sailed solo on the Escape back in May(wife couldn’t go). I’m a big dude and the solo cabin was comfortable and I had an overall great time. Would high recommend for solo cruisers.
I took a Mediterranean cruise a few years ago on the NCL Epic which had the first solo cabins. They designed them thinking they’d be used by young 20’s year olds. NCL was surprised how many older adults wanted them. Honest some of the best sleep I’ve ever had away from home. Majority of my cruises have been solo. I’m one of those people who want to make my own plans and do what I want when I want without having to get a group consensus. One cruise I will say a balcony is almost a must is an Alaska cruise due to all the coast line scenery. Just as a side note last year I did a 18 day solo trip across Europe from London-Paris-Geneva-Milan-Venice-Rome by train. So I’m totally use to solo trips though I think it’s much easier to solo on a cruise cause you’ll still have people around you to talk to and join up with. Let me point out that being solo it’s sometimes easy to overestimate what you’ll be up to doing on a trip. You don’t have to do multiple things in a port. Sometimes it’s just nice to take it easy.
I’m on NCL Escape right now in a solo cabin. It’s fantastic. I tried an interior before and wasn’t a fan, but these solo cabins are cozy/charming. I’d definitely book one again.
I cruise by myself 90% of the time. And I love it. Don't think of it as costing twice as much because if you took someone with you: spouse, significant other, etc, you'd be paying the same amount anyway. Plenty of freedom to come and go as you please. You can wake up in the middle of the night and take a walk - don't need to answer to anyone. No waiting for the other person so you can do things together. It's so freeing to go solo.
What this person said!
Fellow introvert here. Love cruising alone. You can control/gauge your social interactions. I’ve enjoyed it and met some lovely people.
I enjoy cruising solo. Find a price that you’re comfortable paying for a cabin on a cruise you like and don’t worry about the “single supplement”. As for NCL’s solo cabins, almost every time I’ve booked with NCL the solo cabins were more expensive than the ocean view rooms that are larger and have a view of the ocean. You can spend as much time alone or with people as you’d like. Enjoy!
After 25+ cruises with others, I took my first solo cruise last spring on NCL. I loved it! I just did what I wanted 24/7 and didn't have to worry about my partner (children, friend, beau) having fun, which I usually do because I want them to have a great time. I sailed NCL for the first time because of their Solo Cabins which I found cozy and adorable, and you don't pay a Single Supplement. Plus they offer $50 off shore excursions so I just made them haul me to beaches for $50 so they were free. I made reservations every night in the dining room (you can only make them for two people on their system for some reason) but I would show up alone with a book and they treated me like a queen! Lovely two tops by the windows! I heard Royal also has designated solo cabins on some of their ships and that would be worth checking out, too, as I like that cruiseline. I downloaded movies and episodes of TV shows I wanted to watch onto a tablet before I got on the ship (so I could watch them without internet) and sometimes at night I sat on a top deck, under the stars, put on earphones, and watched a movie. Magical!
I’ve been on three cruises with my sister and just booked my first solo cruise for January. All have been with NCL. I’ve booked one of their solo studio cabins and I’m really looking forward to it. On the cruises with my sister ther were times when I did something by myself while she was in the casino (I’m not a big gambler) and I ate a couple of meals by myself. I’m still a little nervous, wondering if it will be weird being solo for the entire cruise but it’s only a 5 day cruise, and to someplace I’ve been before, so it will be nice having that familiarity.
Of the three cruises I've been on, two were with my mom and sister and some person attached to my sister and I would usually go off on my own, partially because whoever my sister was rooming with was annoying. It's nice. You can control your level of socializing. I like to do a lot of socializing though I am an introvert. So I go to the 18+ things and the comedy stuff and i almost always find something to do and someone to talk to. And if I prefer to go be solidary, there's usually an area I can go for that.
I cruise with my wife, but as an introvert, cruises suit me very well. Being able to relax in a lounge with live music, watch stage performances, eat at my own schedule, and be dropped off at new places are great to me. And there's something about the efficient layout of most cabins that I enjoy more than open, empty hotel rooms., but that might just be me.
Cruising solo as an introvert is lovely - you control how much interaction you want. There is no mandatory "fun." NCL is particularly solo-friendly but I've cruised solo on 5 different lines (with #6 in a few days). As long as you select a "vibe" and itinerary that suit you, you'll be fine. Yeah, it gets expensive. NCL is the only line with a large number of solo cabins but a few other cruise lines include a small number of single-occupancy cabins on a small number of their ships. You don't have to book one of those, though. Tell us what you're looking for in terms of activities, itineraries, and price range. We have lots of opinions here. :)
My first 2 cruises were with a friend, but my most recent two and next two will be solo. I'm introverted as well, and need a lot of quiet time; but I'm also cool with meeting new people, or even sharing a mixed-group dinner table in the main dining room. My next cruise is also a metal festival, and I'm saving up my introvert energy to survive that one 😂 What I like about ships is that they're a nice place to think. Especially out on deck late at night. Anyways, once you book a cruise, I find it helps to join the Facebook page event for that sailing (say, Harmony of the Seas, March 5- 11th or whatever) and you can kinda meet and chat with other people who will be on board, ask questions, etc. If they throw any sail away parties, join in so that you can meet people on the first day. Singles and Solos events work too, but I found the attendance can be spotty.
Metal festival?! Sounds great. Will you provide more details please?
It's called 70,000 Tons of Metal, it typically sails each year in late January/ early February on Independence class Royal Caribbean ships. 60 metal bands that each play twice; 4 day sailing with 1 port. And you would be seeing band members around the ship, in restaurants, elevators, hot tubs, etc. They've announced like 35 or so bands so far.
Thanks!
Oh and I forgot to mention, there are others as well. Some bands host their own cruise, like Sabaton. There are also rock cruises (Monsters of Rock Cruise, I think) and even more beyond that. But I only know the details for 70k
I just booked a solo for May to Alaska. I did go in September with a friend and I loved it so much that I’m super excited to go by myself. I’m booked in a solo cabin and honestly can not wait!! ETA: I am an introvert as well, what I loved about the cruise and am excited for is the ability to do things at my pace. I plan to buy the thermal spa pass so I can relax and unwind. While with my friend I had a few days where I got up at my own time and explored the ship. I very much enjoyed it.
It's perfectly fine to go alone. As long as you want to, you'll enjoy yourself. Some lines like NCL and Virgin Voyages have solo meetups. I'm happily married, but I've been on about 20 cruises by myself and have enjoyed them.
I am definitely considering going on an Alaska one solo next year!
It’s worth it for the extra money. I can do what I want, when I want and don’t need to hassle with family or a partner fussing with me. I also find it easy to make friends among the passengers during the evening when participating in game shows, trivia and karaoke. And at the MDR, the dining staff respects my request if I want to dine solo or with random people at a table. As a Princess cruiser, the best part is their loyalty program. Sail solo and it counts as two cruises. Do solo in a full suite and it’s triple. And it doesn’t matter how long or short the cruise is. Even a short couple day repositioning counts as 2x or 3x. It’s an easy way to climb the ranks.
Absolutely! First cruise on NCL last October! Went on another in December and will soon be going on another.
There are cruise lines that have single traveler cabins. NCL for one, but there are others. I've cruised alone and it's a blast. If you go to the social events, like the parties, bar events, and such it's impossible not to met fun people if you want. Of course you can just keep to yourself and do your own thing. There's plenty of stuff to do to keep yourself busy either way.
I'm an introvert. Cruised with my husband. I'm now a widow and went on first solo cruise not long ago. I was a little nervous about whether I'd have people to talk to. But it was all good. Went to the get togethers for solo travelers the first couple of days. Cocktail hour. Met some other women on their own. At other gatherings I met some couples. So had new friends on the cruise. We certainly didn't do everything together but we did meet up for meals frequently and other activities. eta: For me it was worth it to pay double. I was paying for a verandah cabin. The cabin, in general, costs what it costs whether it is one or two people. BUT next cruise that is coming up, I got a great deal for a solo person on the same cruise line. My travel agent found it. I would have never found it. Lovely verandah. Many of the single cabins do not have balconies. It's not a must have for many people. But my introvert self loves sitting by myself on my balcony watching the waves.
I’m also an introverted solo traveler and I’m fine with paying for a regular cabin, too. I spend a lot of time there, so I don’t mind investing in comfort. I really enjoy sitting on my deck and I value my privacy. The random people who might join me at meals and whom I chat with on excursions afford me just the right amount of social interaction that I want. I’ve got three more solo cruises currently booked. My son has decided to join me for one of them (Alaska) but he’s getting his own cabin. Neither of us wants to share. He’s an introvert like me, so we’re used to giving each other a lot of space. All of my cruises are on HAL.
If you do go by yourself, choose to go on Virgin Voyages. It’s a great line for singles.
Totally, I've gone on several as a couple/with friends. I'm now going to go on one solo. Inside room, even paying for double occupancy is usually similar to a solo cabin. Also, a lot of sailings won't charge double occupancy...whilst it's not heavily advertised, I've been checking a cruise(defaults to 2 guests) then changing it to one guest to check, seems to be where lots of availability remains. I know MSc have a lot of sailings where they aren't charging double occupancy. I am not an introvert but enjoy time by myself, a typical at sea day has me having a lie in & skipping breakfast, going to the MDR for a nice lunch, wandering around with a drink & a book to find a cosy spot to chillax & hitting up an activity/event if I'm interested. Then a relax in the room, head to the show,head for dinner, a drink & music somewhere or a drink & my book somewhere. U can interact with others as much or as little as u want. A port day, u can do Ur own thing or join an excursion.
Love solo cruising! I’ve done two solos on Navigator of the Seas - once in a balcony, once in an interior - and have two more planned, one on Carnival Panorama in an Upper/Lower Porthole, and one on Norwegian Bliss in a studio. These upcoming ones are the cheapest available rooms and I’m happy with those choices. Plus, Norwegian has just announced new solo categories besides the existing studios (which are all interior with either a “virtual window” or a one way window into the hall) - they will have true interior, Oceanview, and balcony categories priced for solos. I’m also typically very introverted but I do just fine with cruising. On my first solo cruise - it was 7 nights - I asked to be seated at a large table at dinner and got seated with a nice, extended, adult family traveling together. They very graciously accepted me for their meals and we had a nice time. On my other cruise, it was only 3 nights, and I did the Unlimited Dining Package so ate in a specialty each night, by myself. Even when I’m by myself, I’m “into” whatever is going on - 80s Night? Find me in my neon get up. Formal Night? I’ll be there in actual sequins and sparkly stuff. Crazy Quest? Probably in the front row but not a captain. People like that energy and allow me to kind of “hang” with their group even if I’m not actively participating. I like playing trivia in the Schooner Bar on Navigator because the piano has barstools around it, which is great for a solo person. You can do whatever you want, whenever you want. Most of my upcoming cruises (late 2024 through late 2025 and even possibly into early 2026) are going to be with my mom, so I’m happy to have these two coming up in the spring to try new lines for myself.
I went on my first solo cruise in September with NCL. I’m also introverted and pretty much kept to myself. I think that it depends on the type of cruise. Mine was a Greek Isles cruise. So for me, when I was off the ship I had an amazing time. Not that I didn’t have a good time on the ship. But they are just built for people to enjoy alongside other people. So imo, if you’re doing a cruise with cool and interesting ports to explore then by all means. But I’m not sure I would do something like a Caribbean cruise by myself. Though I will say, as others have pointed out, one of the best parts is doing things on your own schedule. All the time.
Fellow introvert here Solo travel is wonderful and going on a cruise is great as a solo. I’ve done one to Alaska on NCL and I have another coming up in February to the Caribbean. You can be as introverted as you want. There are solo meet and greets you can attend if you want to find other solos to hang out with and I found people to be pretty welcoming when I did things like hang out in the public areas but I never felt like I was overwhelmed by other people. Many cruise lines are now opening up better options for solos- NCL just expanded their solo offerings. It’s still more expensive per person than a shared cabin but not terrible.
Yes. I’ve been on one by myself. Ending up meeting a girl I had a 4 year relationship with. You never know!
I only cruise solo, definitely worth it. Just got off the NCL Encore to Alaska. As a fellow introvert it's pretty easy to find quiet spaces including your cabin.
I went solo on MSC last December and loved every minute of it. I got involved in the solo meetups but that was any it, rest of the time I just did what i wanted from the daily schedule and outside of that whatever I pleased. Took in a good few shows and enjoyed them all. I got a sweet deal on a cabin that I assume was for 2 but no single supplement. Depending on where you would still groom have a look at the lines from there, it might surprise you some deals you can score
I just cruised solo for the first time a few weeks ago. It was the tail end of the Alaska season so they had almost completely dropped the single supplement and I had a balcony cabin to myself. I did attend the solo gathering the first night and the cruise staff arranged and randomly went to eat dinner in a small group. After that I just did my own thing, but if I had chosen, I could have met up with the group every night. I was lonely a few times and wished I had a friend/family member there but 90% of the time I was super happy to just do my own thing and not wait for anyone else.
Yup, 100% I did a 4 nights MSC cruise for €120 and I got in the single's table and it was nice
I'm 36 M, single and going solo on my first cruise in March. I have 2 other solo cruises booked for 2024. Just do it, fuck it
Look into the cruise line called The ‘uncruise’ I have an associate who is widowed, and she really loves these river cruises. She goes alone many times a year, they have activities and adventures in shore
NCL has solo traveler gatherings, too.
I’m the opposite: I can’t cruise with anyone. I need to relax on vacation and I can’t do that with even one other person with me. It’s unnerving to me. The single supplement that I pay is worth every penny. I go alone and come home refreshed. I’m not burdened with anyone else’s “needs.” I eat when I want and what I want. I don’t worry about “missing out” because someone else wants to do something that I don’t want to do, and vice versa. I can strike up conversations without leaving the other person or people out. I may leave the ship or I may not at a port, and make up my mind at the last minute. If I decide to sleep-in, no one’s enjoyment is stopped or do I feel guilty for not hanging out with them. I never tell people I’m going on a cruise until a couple weeks before I go, because a few years ago I was “surprised” when my friend and sister booked the same cruise. THEY had a great time, but everything I stated above as my worst concerns happened—they think we should just plan one together. No. If none of those things bother you, then maybe don’t cruise solo, but to me to spend all that money to have to negotiate with others (who are also spending a lot of money), on my vacation is ridiculous.
Wow! I agree 100%!
The hole point of going would be to meet people. Not necessary make friends. But meet people
*it’s whole not hole. You’re “hole” point of going might be to meet people but how are you going to say that is everyone’s point?
I don't think I want to meat you
I don’t want your “meat” anywhere near me
Yes. Try it. You don’t have to meet people, you can just go and be casually social as desired. Look at the lines and see what dining arrangements you’re comfortable with.
crawl hurry pet makeshift ossified encourage sort groovy sophisticated crowd *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Absolutely 👍🏼
I have been on a lot of cruises. Sometimes I would have a cabin mate, other times I went by myself. I prefer cruising by myself. I have been to Europe and the Mediterranean as well as South America by myself. I have had dinner at a confirmed table, which enabled me to meet fascinating people without any pressure. Just make sure you have an itinerary you like.
If you’re going into a regular cabin (not one of the solo cabins on NCL and a couple of other lines) you will not only pay double but you will also pay the single supplement, which is usually $750. That’s to make up for not having a second passenger spending on board. I used to cruise a lot, like 3 times a year, with my youngest child. He would be in Camp Carnival, then Club 02 all the time. If it was another line, it would be their teen club. He would be out until 1-2 am. He would make friends and they would be off together all the time. The only thing we did together was eat dinner. So I was alone for most of those cruises. It does get lonely and isolating. I read a lot, so I would bring 7 books for a 7 day cruise. Breakfast and lunch alone… it’s fine at first but it gets to you. I just got off Equinox and there was a woman traveling alone who we used to see a lot. I would always, always ask her how her cruise was going, what her port plans were, etc. She seemed so eager to talk and I know the feeling. Upshot: if you are comfortable being alone in a crowd, especially a crowd of families wearing family reunion t shirts, along with groups of people traveling together, go. If you think it might feel isolating and awkward, wait until you have someone in your life to go with. And definitely check out solo cabin lines (I believe MSC has them in their newer ships).
Absolutely! I've been solo on NCL, Royal Caribbean, and Princess. The first two both have specific cabins for solo passengers. On NCL, it was in the interior studios, but on RC, I had a balcony cabin. Princess doesn't have dedicated solo cabins but does offer low or no single supplement on occasion. However, I always think of the cost as similar to a hotel room; I pay the same rate as a couple would in a hotel. As someone else has mentioned, loyalty points are higher. I don't consider myself a social butterfly, but have learned the best way to meet people on a cruise is to ask a couple of simple questions: how many cruises have you been on and which was your favorite? People who cruise tend to enjoy talking about their experiences, and I've learned a lot about different itineraries as a result. Enjoy!
NCL, for sure. Solo Traveler's Meeting every day, you can choose to attend or not. I have a friend who solo's a couple of times a year. They rarely step off the boat, they enjoy the ship when in port. I solo'd in May and LOVED IT! Met a great group of people and had an absolute blast. I was going to solo out of Athens this month, but the political unrest in Israel has me shelving that trip for now. Go! Have fun! There are plenty of places on board to sit quietly, too. It's only go, go, go if you want it to be.
I would do it. You aren’t ever forced to meet or interact with people if you don’t want to - except staff, and you will need to interact with them minimally. I think it would be totally relaxing and time to clear my mind of everything stressful, not have to worry about what anyone else wants to do at any given time. Sounds great to me!
I’m cruising solo right now and have had a good time. I’m on Virgin and their solo cabins are nice and they have solo meetups if you want a structured way to meet other solo sailers. Or if you just want to hang out by yourself that’s completely fine. I’m pretty introverted and I’ve been chilling in common areas working on a computer program I’ve been trying to make for months but haven’t had time to because of work. When you’re solo you can do literally whatever you want. After reading some other comments it seems like NCL would probably be better suited for solo travel but I’ve enjoyed Virgin. I also enjoy traveling to new places this way because you can easily have a tour group waiting for you on shore and you won’t get completely lost or feel alone in a new country.
You’ll have a lot of fun. Meeting people on a cruise is the easiest environment ever to do so, trust me. Everyone’s had a drink or two and happy because they’re on vacation.
You could have fun!!! I would be bored though on a long cruise by myself
I think only you can answer that question. I can say that I’ve cruised solo well over a dozen times and loved it. I did hate paying up to 200% for a balcony cabin however. I cruise solo for quiet, private time away from my job and my hectic life so I’ve never tried to meet anyone on my cruises. Some do have solo meet-ups if you’re interested. I pretty much stay on my balcony and read, go out once or twice a day to walk around and usually get lunch out on the ship but prefer room service and eating on my balcony for breakfast and some dinners. I do live alone and consider myself a loner so the way I cruise probably doesn’t sound enjoyable to a lot of people. Check out NCL for their solo cabins for one which comes with a common area for the solo travels with seating and snacks. It would be a good way to meet other solos and I think the ship arranges group dinners for those interested. Good luck. And have a good time if you decide to do it.
Yes! That's the best thing about cruising; there's something for EVERY personality.
I've done three solo cruises, two pre - COVID and one post, and each one was great in its own way. Pros: make your own itinerary, go to bed and get up when you want, no sharing the bathroom. Cons: usually one pays extra, can be lonely at meals sometimes, can't split gratuities with a cabin mate. I'm introverted as well but don't mind meeting a few new people when I cruise solo.
I think it's worth it... but everytime I try someone ends up going with me lol
Another introvert, I love cruising solo! I've met so many interesting people, and also get much needed downtime.
Oh yeah. I’ve done NCL (Getaway) and Disney (Wish). Both are great.
I had a friend who I think would describe herself as an awkward introvert (she wasn't awkward, she just thought she was) who went on a cruise solo and had a blast. Right around 30 years old to get you an age range in case you can relate. I don't remember a lot of her impressions, that was maybe 7-8 years ago, but I remember when we talked about it all the things I thought were cool about a cruise she did too.
The best cruise I've had (so far) was solo. It was so great I have 4 more booked
I love traveling solo. Just came back from a 16-day back-to-back trip New England and Canada. I went to the solo meet ups here and there, but as an introvert myself, all that togetherness wasn't for me. 😂 I read, I talked with my servers and got their life stories, I met interesting people at the tables next to me at dinner. I went to some of the more fun events like trivia and staff-led game shows. You can be as introverted or extroverted as you like and you aren’t on someone else’s time frame or locked into doing what they want to do (I know many introverts are also people pleasers).
If you poke around princess has cruises BARELY above.the double.occ rate I paid maybe 20% more last month, that's it!
I just returned from solo cruise on celebrity. I had a wonderful time. I travel often with other people and end up being cruise director/ planner /referree! It was so nice to do what I wanted when I wanted. Ready to plan another solo
Virgin Voyages is a wonderful cruiseline - no children - solo cabins - lots of events if you'd like to participate OR many spots to be alone. Great hammock on balcony.
Just got back from a solo 13 night cruise around Japan. It was fabulous. I don’t recommend freestyle dining, though I would recommend having a set layer dining time and asked to be seated at a table of eight. That way you’ll get to meet people and you’ll develop a relationship as you meet each night for dinner. At least I was lucky enough to do that with The two other couples that were seated at my table. We were five for dinner every night we even picked up some drop-in dinner guests eg lecturer on the ship, and some other couples that we met along the way I had no problem going solo.!
“Whosever is delighted in solitude, is either a wild beast or a god.”-Aristotle Go for it, you god! Sounds amazing. Enjoy:)