Embarking on a cruise is a unique and exhilarating way to explore the world. For solo travelers, it offers an exceptional blend of adventure, relaxation, and social interaction. Solo travel on cruises provides opportunities to make new friends while away from home. The largest issue with traveling solo is that most cruise, expeditions and tours costs are based on double occupancy. Leaving a solo traveler with a large single supplement, oftentimes double the price.
Good news, cruises for singles have gained immense popularity in recent years. As more cruise lines offer solo rooms or studio cabins and more are offering discounts for those traveling alone. You can now choose an expedition or luxury cruise without paying extra. There are even tour companies that will pair you on land tours with a roommate to help solo travelers save.
Cruises and tours for single travelers provide a platform for individuals to break free from the traditional solo travel mold. You can immerse yourself in a community of like-minded explorers by choosing the right cruise or tour. This blog is focused on premium luxury solo travelers and expedition offers, but know there are solo options for nearly every price point.
The Rise of Solo Cruising
Solo travel has become a prevailing trend, with more individuals choosing to embark on journeys alone. Personally, I have been backpacking and traveling alone since I was 18. I love traveling the world and moving at the beat of my own drum. Not having to worry about what my friends want to do or see, and meeting people along the way.
Cruises, once considered primarily for couples or families, have adapted to this shift in travel preferences. Cruise lines now offer tailored experiences to cater to the unique needs and desires of solo travelers. Examples include onboard meet ups and ship designs to encourage people to mingle. VIrgin Voyages has The Social Club Diner for example, encouraging guests to engage. Seabourn says their open bar allows guests to drink and socialize together, without worry about the need of who is picking up the check.
One of the driving factors behind the surge in solo cruising is the desire for independence and self-discovery. Unlike other forms of solo travel, cruises provide a secure and structured environment, making them an ideal option for those who want to explore the world without the stress of planning every detail. It also provides you with the option to engage with others or retreat back to your room for some R&R and alone time.
Choosing to travel with a built-In community makes solo travel easier. Last year on my South Pacific expedition on the National Geographic Lindblad Orion was full of solo travelers. They were all outgoing and fun, to this day, many of us still talk and we’ve even had a travel reunion recently!
Cruises for solo travelers
If you are looking to travel solo, it’s always best to find a ship and adventure that is right for you. Personally, I love the small ships. When you are on a large ship, such as Virgin Voyages or Princess Cruises, you are surrounded by over 3,000 people and crew. It can be hard to meet people. After all, you might see someone once and then never see them again. Like the big ships, see solo cruise options here.
On smaller cruise ships and expeditions, people are more connected. With many ships holding less than 900 people, and expedition ships often holding less than 200, it’s very easy to meet, engage, and interact daily with travelers. Some of my dearest friends I have met during a small ship cruise or expedition. Spending days with them exploring the world and creating new bonds.
Often, the best deals for solo travelers tend to be near last minute or on sailings where demand is lower. Sometimes the shoulder season such as between major holidays and when school is in session.
Swan Hellenic 0% Single Supplement Antarctica
If you are looking to travel this year, Swan Hellenic is calling all solo travelers to explore Antarctica. A bucket list destination for most travelers is now in reach without the pesky 25% solo supplement which Swan Hellenic usually charges. Swan Hellenic already has one of the lowest solo supplements in the industry, and now it’s even better.
The Deal: No single supplement on any Antarctica sailing departing in November or December 2023. Starting as low as $8,470 per person for an Oceanview or $9,690.50 for a balcony. Only available vis Scott & Thomas, not available online.
If these dates do not work for you, know that by booking via Scott & Thomas Travel, my agency, you can save $1,000 per person on any 2024 or 2025 Swan Hellenic cruise.
Seabourn Solo Travel Special
Seabourn is owned by Carnival corporation, but is the luxury line of the group. Operated under the same umbrella as Holland America Line, but on smaller more luxurious premium all inclusive ships where every room is an ocean view staterooms or better.
The new Seabourn Pursuit will take part in her inaugural Antarctica season this year, joining her sister ship and upwards of 250 guests on the Seabourn Venture in Antarctica. Join either one of these ships with no solo supplements and the best sea views, with only balcony suites or better. No inside rooms here!
The deal: The best Antarctica deal currently costs $9,600 for a balcony suite in Feb 2024. This deal is limited and not available online. Be sure to contact me for more information.
Seabourn also dedicated an entire website for solo travel deals. These can be last minute and future cruises where the solo supplement is anywhere from 0-25%, but far less than the typical 100%.
Contact me or your favorite travel advisor for more details.
Silversea 0% Solo Supplement
Another luxury cruise line that offers all inclusive fares, including airfare and daily excursions in every port of call is Silversea. Silversea is offering no solo supplements across the world on 21 different sailings in 2023 and 2024.
Choose between a cruise around Japan or an expedition to the Galapagos. SilverSea has cruise options between Oct 2023 and March 2024 on sale with no solo supplements. Silversea ships are smaller and provide more opportunities to connect with both nature and the people on board. Every sailing has less than 800 people, with most between 250-600!
You can find all cruises for solo travelers on their dedicated website. Choose between Australia, Bali, Antarctica, or the Middle East without having to pay more for traveling solo. When you’re ready to book, be sure to contact me for additional opportunities for onboard credits or other deals.
Regent Seven Seas No Solo Supplement
Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) are known for the royal treatment of guests including everything from airfare to excursions in the cruise line. As one of the most luxurious cruise lines, they offer something for everyone who is looking for a luxurious and premium experience in more traditional cruise ports world wide.
You are encouraged to set sail solo and indulge in a journey tailored just for you aboard these new voyages that feature 0% Single Supplement. Whether you are dreaming of exploring the Mediterranean, the Caribbean or beyond. RSSC has the perfect itinerary at an extraordinary value. Don’t lmiss out on this chance to explore the world and save while doing so.
Bottom line
Solo cruising offers a unique blend of adventure and social connection, making it an attractive option for those seeking independence without sacrificing community. From Viking River cruises to big ocean ships and small expedition ships, the cruise industry continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of solo travel. There are more opportunities for singles to explore the world in a comfortable and secure environment. Especially on expeditions and small luxury ships.
Every day, more cruise lines offer new opportunities for solo travelers. Atlas Ocean Voyages offers cabins designed for solo travelers, Explora offers 0-15% solo supplements on nearly all sailings, whereas, Lindblad offers 100s of expeditions worldwide with no solo supplement. The list goes on. This is why you need a travel advisor.
Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or embarking on your first solo adventure, consider setting sail on a cruise for an experience that combines the thrill of exploration with the camaraderie of a shared journey. When you’re ready to book your experience, contact Scott & Thomas travel and ask for Rocky. Let me find the perfect solo cruise or land tour for you.
