Solo cruisers typically pay a 50–100% solo supplement on top of the per-person fare, effectively paying for two people in a room alone. Lines with dedicated solo cabins (Norwegian, MSC, Virgin Voyages) offer better value.
Photo: Royal Caribbean International
Cruising solo is more expensive than it looks — the traditional cruise pricing model is built for two people sharing a cabin. Here's the honest solo cost breakdown.
The solo supplement problem
Most cruise lines set fares assuming double occupancy. When you sail solo, they charge a "single supplement" — typically 50–100% extra — because you're occupying a full cabin that could otherwise have two paying passengers.
Example: A cabin listed at $799/person based on double occupancy would cost a solo traveler $1,200–$1,598 for the same cabin.
Photo: Royal Caribbean International
Solo-friendly cruise lines
Norwegian Cruise Line — best for solos
Norwegian pioneered dedicated solo studios (no single supplement) on ships including Escape, Getaway, Breakaway, and Joy. These compact but comfortable private cabins have their own solo traveler lounge (The Studio Lounge) where you meet other solo sailors. Price: comparable to the double occupancy rate per person.
MSC Cruises
MSC has solo cabins on several ships with no supplement or minimal supplement. Strong value for solo travelers.
Virgin Voyages
Adults-only line designed with solos in mind — no solo supplement on many cabin categories. Strong community vibe for solo travelers.
Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity
Solo supplements are standard — 50–100% extra. Limited solo cabin options. Best strategy: book guarantee inside cabins during promotions when solo supplements are waived (happens occasionally during wave season).
Photo: Royal Caribbean International
Solo cruise cost comparison, 7-night Caribbean
| Scenario | Cost |
|---|---|
| Regular cabin with 100% solo supplement | $1,598–$2,400 (cruise fare only) |
| Norwegian solo studio | $799–$1,200 |
| Repositioning sailing (solo supplement less common) | $399–$799 |
Solo travel tips
- Solo meetup sailings: Several travel companies specialize in group solo cruises where a group block reserves many cabins at no single supplement
- Repositioning cruises: These one-way sailings often waive solo supplements
- Studio cabin waitlist: Norwegian's solo cabins sell out fast — get on the waitlist early