Cruising alone can be one of the most freeing and fulfilling ways to travel—you set your own schedule, relax on your own terms, and meet new people when you want. But one thing that often deters solo travelers from cruising is the infamous solo supplement: the extra fee cruise lines charge when one person books a cabin meant for two.
Thankfully, with a bit of strategy and insider knowledge, solo cruisers can still sail the seas without emptying their wallets. Here are 10 practical tips to help you save money on your next solo cruise.
1. Look for Cruise Lines That Cater to Solo Travelers
Some cruise lines have recognized the growing solo travel trend and now offer studio cabins specifically designed (and priced) for single occupancy. These are often smaller, but still comfortable, and you don’t pay a solo supplement.
Examples include:
- Norwegian Cruise Line – Offers Studio Staterooms with access to a dedicated solo lounge.
- Holland America – Has “Solo Oceanview” staterooms on some ships.
- Cunard and Celebrity Cruises – Occasionally offer solo cabins or reduced solo supplements.
2. Watch for Reduced or Waived Solo Supplement Promotions
Cruise lines frequently run promotions where the solo supplement is either reduced or waived entirely—especially during shoulder seasons or for last-minute deals. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite cruise lines or deal aggregators like:
- Cruise Critic
- Vacations To Go
- CruiseDirect
3. Travel During Off-Peak Times
Solo cabins and discounted rates are more likely during slower seasons like:
- January to early March
- Late April to early June
- September to early December (excluding holidays)
During these times, ships are less likely to sell out, and cruise lines are more willing to cut deals for solo travelers.
4. Use a Travel Agent Who Specializes in Cruises
Experienced cruise agents often have access to exclusive solo traveler rates and group bookings where you can avoid the supplement or even get onboard credit. A good agent can also help you navigate the maze of options to find the best value for your style.
5. Book a Guarantee Cabin
A “guarantee” cabin means you pay for a certain category (e.g., interior, oceanview) but let the cruise line assign the exact room. It’s often cheaper—and you might even get a free upgrade. While this tactic is a gamble, it’s usually safe if you’re flexible.
6. Consider Sharing a Cabin—Carefully
Some cruise lines (and cruise forums) offer roommate-matching services to pair solo travelers in the same cabin, helping you avoid the supplement. This is best for outgoing travelers comfortable with sharing space and risk.
Tip: If you go this route, set expectations ahead of time—sleep schedules, hygiene, etc.
7. Use Loyalty Programs and Casino Offers
If you’ve cruised before—even once—you may already qualify for discounts through cruise line loyalty programs. Also, some cruise lines (like Royal Caribbean and MSC) give out discounted or free cruises through their casino programs—even if you don’t gamble much.
8. Limit Onboard Spending
While the cruise fare might be fixed, onboard expenses can add up. Solo travelers can save by:
- Bringing their own wine (within cruise limits)
- Booking shore excursions independently
- Skipping specialty dining and enjoying the included restaurants
- Avoiding spa treatments and overpriced souvenirs
9. Join Cruise Forums and Solo Travel Groups
Cruise Critic’s Solo Cruisers forum and Facebook groups like Solo Cruisers Unite are full of tips, deals, and solo travel veterans. You might even find a cruise buddy—or get invited to a group cruise where the supplement is waived.
10. Think Outside the Cabin
You don’t necessarily need a solo-specific cabin. Sometimes, it’s cheaper to book a double occupancy interior room during a big sale than a studio cabin during peak times. Always compare total costs, not just per-night rates.
Final Thought
Cruising solo doesn’t have to mean paying double. With smart planning, flexibility, and a watchful eye for deals, you can enjoy all the perks of cruising—sunsets at sea, new destinations, endless dining—at a fraction of the cost. So don’t let the solo supplement sink your dream vacation. Cast off, and cruise smart.
