There’s something powerful about waking up on your own timeline, grabbing coffee without coordinating with anyone, and doing exactly what you want—without compromise.
Solo cruising isn’t just a vacation. It’s a reset button.
I know the idea might feel a little intimidating at first. What if you feel awkward? What if you get bored? What if people stare at your dinner table for one?
Here’s the truth: no one’s paying that much attention, and those quiet moments at sea often become the most meaningful. Whether you’re recharging from burnout, celebrating a milestone, or just want to escape without catering to anyone else’s schedule, a solo cruise can be one of the most freeing and empowering things you ever do.
In this post, I’ll break down why more people than ever are cruising solo, what makes it worth every penny, how to pick the right cruise line, and the tips I swear by to make your solo sailing feel anything but lonely.
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Why Solo Cruising is Gaining Popularity
Solo cruising isn’t just for seasoned travelers or extreme introverts anymore. More and more people are booking cruises for one—and loving it.
In fact, cruise lines have started paying attention. Several now offer solo cabins with no single supplement, onboard mixers for solo travelers, and even group excursions tailored for those sailing solo. This isn’t some fringe travel trend—it’s a growing movement.
So, what’s driving it?
1. People want flexibility.
No negotiating dinner times. No waiting on someone else’s schedule. You set the pace, and that freedom is addictive.
2. It’s a chance to unplug and reset.
With limited distractions and built-in downtime, cruising solo gives you the space to clear your head. Whether you’re journaling by the ocean or just zoning out on the pool deck, it’s quiet in the best way.
3. The world’s changed.
Post-pandemic, a lot of travelers realized they don’t want to wait on others to see the world. Life feels shorter now. Solo travel puts the control back in your hands.
4. It’s more affordable than it used to be.
Thanks to solo cabin options and cruise deals that waive single supplements, it’s finally possible to cruise alone without paying double.
Bottom line? Cruising solo isn’t weird. It’s smart. And it’s one of the easiest ways to travel independently while still having everything taken care of for you.
The Benefits of Solo Cruising
Solo cruising comes with a freedom most group trips can’t touch. It’s just you, the open sea, and zero compromise. You can be as social or as private as you want—and either way, no one’s judging.
Here’s why a solo cruise might end up being your favorite kind of vacation:
1. Do what you want, when you want.
Sleep in. Order room service. Skip formal night. No one’s waiting on you, and you don’t have to check in with anyone. It’s your trip, your rules.
2. Built-in time for rest and self-reflection.
Cruise ships are designed for downtime. You’ll find plenty of cozy nooks to read, think, or just breathe. Sometimes what you need most is space—and cruising gives it to you without making you feel completely alone.
3. It’s easier to meet people than you think.
From trivia to group excursions to bar seating at dinner, cruise ships are full of casual opportunities to connect. And the best part? If you’re not feeling it, no one’s offended when you head back to your cabin.
4. No one else’s schedule to manage.
You’re not negotiating excursions, dinner plans, or bedtimes. You can stay at the beach all day or be back on board before noon. It’s 100 percent up to you.
5. A confidence boost you didn’t expect.
There’s something empowering about navigating a trip on your own. It reminds you that you’re capable, independent, and absolutely allowed to do things just for yourself.
Solo cruising isn’t about being antisocial. It’s about being intentional. You’ll come back more refreshed, more centered, and with zero regrets about how you spent your time.
Overcoming Common Fears and Myths
Let’s be real—cruising solo sounds great until your brain kicks in with all the what-ifs. It’s normal to have doubts, but most of the fears people have about solo cruising just don’t hold up.
Let’s break a few down:
“Won’t I be lonely?”
Only if you want to be. Cruise ships are filled with friendly people, and many cruise lines host solo mixers, group dinners, or activity meetups. But if your goal is quiet time, you can have that too. The beauty is—you get to choose.
“Is it safe to travel alone?”
Yes, cruising solo is one of the safest ways to travel. Ships have 24/7 security, cameras, and staff everywhere. Stick to basic travel smarts, especially in port, and you’ll be just fine. Bonus tip: book cruise-sponsored excursions for added peace of mind.
“Isn’t it way more expensive?”
It used to be. But now, cruise lines like Norwegian, Holland America, and Virgin Voyages offer solo cabins with no single supplement. Even if you book a regular stateroom, a good travel advisor (like me) can help find deals or perks to offset the cost.
“Will it be awkward eating alone?”
Only if you let it be. Bring a book, chat with your server, or sit at the bar where conversation flows more naturally. Also, plenty of solo cruisers end up meeting other travelers and dining together by day two.
“Will people think it’s weird?”
Nope. If anything, they’ll be a little jealous. Traveling solo shows confidence and clarity. People admire that. And chances are, you’ll run into others doing the exact same thing.
Once you move past the myths, what’s left is a travel experience that’s peaceful, personal, and fully yours.
Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers
Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to sailing solo. Some truly go out of their way to make solo guests feel welcome and comfortable, offering dedicated staterooms, mixers, and no awkward vibes.
Here are a few top picks if you’re cruising solo for the first time or just want to make the most of your time at sea:
1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
They were one of the first to offer studio staterooms designed just for solo travelers, with no single supplement. These cabins are sleek and modern, and they come with exclusive access to the Studio Lounge—a solo-only space where you can grab a drink, socialize, or just chill without the crowd.
2. Holland America Line
Ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxed, mature crowd. Holland America offers solo-friendly events like meet-and-greets, trivia, and group dinners. Their ships also have quiet vibes perfect for solo cruisers who want downtime without feeling isolated.
3. Virgin Voyages
No kids, no dress codes, no pressure. Virgin’s adults-only cruises are modern, inclusive, and very solo-friendly. They attract a mix of younger solo travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who’s just not into traditional cruising. You won’t feel out of place here, even if you’re dining alone or hitting the nightclub solo.
4. Royal Caribbean
On select ships, Royal Caribbean offers studio staterooms with balconies—a rare perk for solo cruisers. Their ships also have plenty of onboard activities, which make it easy to meet people without forced small talk.
5. Celebrity Cruises
Upscale, but not stuffy. Celebrity offers solo cabins on newer ships and hosts onboard activities that create natural opportunities for connection, like wine tastings and cooking demos.
Bonus Tip: Use a travel advisor (hi, that’s me) to get access to the best solo rates and perks. I can help find solo-friendly rooms, waived supplements, and itineraries that match your vibe.
👉 Ready to try a solo cruise? Request a free, no-obligation quote here.
Solo Cruising Tips for First-Timers
Booking your first solo cruise? It’s easier than you think—and way more rewarding than you expect. That said, a few smart moves can make your experience smoother from day one.
1. Choose the right ship size
Mid-sized ships tend to be the sweet spot for solo travelers. They’re big enough for variety, but small enough to feel personal. Large mega-ships can be overwhelming, while very small ships might feel a little too quiet unless that’s what you’re after.
2. Go for flexible dining
Skip the fixed seating and go with anytime or open dining. You can eat solo, join others, or strike up a conversation at the bar. Freedom is the whole point of a solo trip—don’t lock yourself into someone else’s schedule.
3. Sign up for excursions
Shore excursions are great for meeting other travelers without any forced social pressure. Book active ones (like snorkeling, kayaking, or tours) for easy connection without small talk overload.
4. Bring entertainment for downtime
Pack books, download podcasts, or a journal for those peaceful sea days. You’ll enjoy the stillness more if you have something relaxing to do during quiet moments.
5. Be open—but not obligated—to social moments
Attend a solo mixer or trivia night if you’re feeling it. Skip it if you’re not. The cruise gives you structure, but you still get to control the vibe.
6. Consider a lanyard or crossbody bag
Sounds small, but when you’re carrying your key card, ID, and phone alone, having them easily accessible makes everything less of a juggle.
7. Let your travel advisor know you’re sailing solo
A good advisor (like yours truly) can help match you with the right ship, score deals on solo cabins, and even flag solo traveler promos that aren’t publicly advertised.
Final Thoughts: Cruising Solo Might Be Exactly What You Need
If you’ve been waiting for someone to say “go for it”—this is it.
A solo cruise isn’t just about escaping the noise. It’s about showing up for yourself, doing what you want, and coming home feeling like you actually had a vacation. Whether you want peace and quiet, new connections, or just a break from everyone needing something from you… a solo cruise delivers.
It’s not selfish. It’s necessary.
And I’d love to help you plan it.
👉 Click here to request your free, no-obligation cruise quote and let’s find the sailing that fits you. No pressure. No FOMO. Just options you’ll love.