Cruising solo is no longer an oddity—it’s a growing trend. More cruise lines now offer single cabins, solo traveler meetups, and pricing options that make sailing on your own more accessible than ever. Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned traveler looking for a different kind of escape, here are some practical tips to ensure your solo cruise is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

1. Choose the Right Cruise Line

Not all cruise lines are equally friendly to solo travelers. Some offer dedicated solo cabins with no (or reduced) single supplement, while others still charge almost double for single occupancy. I have personnally cruised on each of these and found them to be excellent options.

• Norwegian Cruise Line has studio, oceanview and balcony cabins and a “Solo Lounge” exclusively for solo travelers.
• Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are increasingly offering solo staterooms on new ships.
• Azamara focuses on destination-rich itineraries, ideal for solo travelers who want immersive experiences.

Pro Tip: Consider smaller ships or premium lines—passengers tend to be more community-oriented, making it easier to meet others.

2. Take Advantage of Solo Traveler Events

Most cruise lines host meetups for solo travelers early in the voyage. These events are perfect for making connections without pressure. Even if you enjoy your independence, having a friendly face to share a coffee or excursion with can enrich your trip.

If you are an introvert like me it might be a challenge to go to your first meetup. My experience is that you meet great, mostly likeminded people interested in maximizing their cruise experience. There will be no expectation of “joining” every meal or event, but there will usually be an option. Most people will drop in and out of meetings depending on their personal preferences.

3. Pick the Right Cabin

If budget is a concern, inside solo cabins are often the most affordable option. However, many solo cruisers find that paying a little more for an oceanview or balcony is worth it—you’ll have your own private space to relax and watch the sea without feeling isolated.

4. Plan Excursions Strategically

Excursions can be the best time to meet fellow travelers. Smaller group tours can be an excellent way to see the sites and meet new people at the same time. Folks are generally excited to share the experience with others through small talk or pointing out items of interest.

Safety Tip: Always stick with reputable, cruise-approved excursions when traveling alone in unfamiliar ports.

5. Enjoy Dining Your Way

One of the biggest perks of cruising solo is the flexibility at mealtimes:

• Join a Shared Table: Great for meeting people and swapping stories. I suggest doing this early on to determine if it is for you. Always remember that you can participate or let the conversation flow around you.
• Opt for Specialty Dining: Treat yourself to a quiet evening at a fine-dining venue.This is a great option for an upgraded experience. Depending on the cruise line, they may be included in your fare. Don’t be hesitant to use these. I was when I first started cruising but quickly found that it was a great time with great food.
• Mix It Up: Alternate between casual buffets, main dining room, and specialty venues depending on your mood.

6. Stay Connected

Cruises are about unplugging, but it’s wise to let someone at home know your itinerary and check in occasionally. Internet packages can be costly and not all wireless is high speed (read slow). That said, many ships do include minutes or a basic package that makes it easy to share photos or send emails from sea.

For those that need to work or feel the need to have higher speed access, higher level packages are generally available though I would check the reviews on the particular ship before purchasing.

7. Embrace the Freedom

Solo cruising isn’t about being alone—it’s about traveling on your own terms. Sleep in, skip the group activities if they don’t appeal, and design your days exactly how you want.

For me, this generally means coffee and a lite breakfast in my stateroom and time on deck reading and people watching are part of every day. Evenings usually include dinner in the main dining room either solo or with new found friends and entertainment. If the ship has a casino, you might find me there as well.

You’ll often find that going solo makes you more approachable, leading to unexpected friendships and richer travel stories. The main thing is…do you!

Conclusion

Solo cruising can be a liberating and rewarding experience. With thoughtful planning—choosing the right cruise line, cabin, and excursions—you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: independence and community. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or connection, the sea is waiting for you.