Wondering if a solo cruise is right for you? Here’s everything to consider—and how iCruiseApp helps make it the smoothest trip ever.
Whether you’re craving alone time, ticking off a bucket-list destination, or just curious about doing things your way, solo cruising can be one of the most liberating travel experiences out there. While it takes a bit more planning than traveling with a group, it also offers flexibility, privacy, and the opportunity to meet amazing new people—or simply recharge in peace.
Let’s dive into all the key considerations, tips, and how iCruiseApp.com can help you navigate your options—from finding ships with solo cabins to comparing amenities and checking verified traveler reviews.
🛏️ Cabin Selection & The Truth About Single Supplements
Solo travelers often face single supplement fees, where cruise lines charge 150%–200% of a regular fare if booking a double-occupancy cabin alone. But here’s the good news: some ships now offer solo cabins, and you can find them easily using iCruiseApp’s Explore Feature.
✅ Cruise Lines with Solo Cabins
| Cruise Line | Ship Examples | Solo Cabin Types |
|---|---|---|
| Norwegian | Norwegian Epic, Breakaway, Prima | Studio Staterooms + Private Solo Lounge |
| Royal Caribbean | Anthem of the Seas, Quantum, Harmony | Studio Interior & Ocean View |
| Celebrity Cruises | Celebrity Edge, Apex | Single Staterooms with Infinite Veranda |
| Virgin Voyages | Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady | Solo Insider & Sea View |
| Holland America Line | Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam | Solo Oceanview |
| American Cruise Lines | Entire fleet | Solo Cabins (some with balconies) |
Use the Compare Tool to see which cruise lines offer solo-friendly cabins, pricing, perks, and more—side by side.
🗣️ Socializing Onboard (If You Want To!)
Cruise ships are built for connection, but solo travelers can still control their own social level.
- Join game nights, trivia, art classes, and wine tastings
- Attend solo cruiser meetups (many lines host these early in the trip)
- Lounge in solo-only areas (Norwegian’s Studio Lounge is a standout)
- Join shore excursions to meet fellow travelers on the go
- Visit the pools & hot tubs
Prefer solitude? There are plenty of reading nooks, observation lounges, spas, and quiet decks to claim for yourself.
🍽️ Dining Alone? No Problem.
You can choose between:
- Flexible dining: Dine with new people every night if you want to mingle.
- Assigned seating: Eat with the same group every night to form connections.
- Room service or specialty dining: Enjoy solo luxury or treat yourself to in-room quiet time.
Dining solo might seem awkward at first—but with ocean views and attentive service, you’ll quickly realize it’s actually pretty great.
🚶♀️ Excursions & Port Days
Shore excursions are a great way to stay social and explore with ease. Cruise line–organized tours offer safety, structure, and likeminded travelers. If you’re venturing off on your own:
- Choose safe, walkable destinations
- Download offline maps or use cruise line recommendations
- Let the onboard team know your plans
- Be mindful of all-aboard times!
You can also browse excursions for free on iCruiseApp by port and activity type.
🛡️ Safety & Smart Planning
Solo cruising is generally very safe, but smart habits go a long way:
- Carry a copy of your ship card and ID
- Use the ship’s messaging or Wi-Fi app to stay connected
- Lock valuables in your cabin safe
- Trust your instincts—if a situation doesn’t feel right, walk away
Check traveler reviews on iCruiseApp to hear about real guest experiences at sea and ashore.
💰 Financial Planning & Budgeting
Budgeting matters even more when you’re covering costs solo. Be sure to factor in:
- Wi-Fi or drink packages
- Specialty dining or spa treatments
- Tips/gratuities
- Solo cabin surcharges (if applicable)
- Travel insurance
Not sure where to start? Let iCruiseApp’s CruisVisor™ Recommender match you with the best cruise for your lifestyle and budget.
❤️ Personal Enjoyment & Confidence
Solo travel is about being unapologetically you. Use the time to journal, unplug, sleep in, or watch sunrise from your private balcony. Cruise ships offer the rare opportunity to feel completely safe while alone—a huge bonus for first-time solo travelers.
📲 Let iCruiseApp Be Your Solo Travel Wingman/Wingwoman
Whether you’re looking for the perfect ship, a balcony cabin made for one, or reviews from other solo travelers—we’ve got your back.
✅ Explore ships, ports, and destinations
✅ Compare cruise lines side by side
✅ Find the perfect match with CruisVisor™
✅ Read verified traveler reviews
You’re only one click away from your solo adventure at sea.
