The Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelling

Thinking about going on a cruise… but on your own? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Solo cruising can feel intimidating at first, but it’s also one of the most freeing ways to travel. You set your own pace, meet new people naturally, and explore the world exactly how you want.

At our family-run business, we’ve helped countless solo travellers find their perfect cruise, and Michele has experienced many solo cruises herself. From our experience, there are a few cruise lines that consistently go the extra mile to make solo travellers feel welcome, comfortable, and connected. Here are our top six cruise lines for solo travellers, with all the reasons why they stand out.

1. Fred. Olsen – Small Ships, Big Friendliness

Fred. Olsen has always been our top pick for solo travellers, and here’s why: their ships are smaller and more intimate than many big cruise lines, which makes meeting people feel natural rather than forced. They genuinely understand the challenges of travelling solo and make it easier for you to enjoy your holiday without feeling singled out.

Why solos love Fred. Olsen:

• Solo cabins with low or no supplement: You can book without paying a huge extra fee, which is rare in the cruising world.
• Solo meet-ups on board: Social gatherings are hosted in a relaxed way so you can meet likeminded people without awkwardness.
• Equal pricing for new cruise launches: Solo travellers can grab the same deals as couples, which shows the cruise line really values solo guests.
• UK departures: Makes travel stress-free—no long flights or extra travel logistics before your cruise begins.

Fred. Olsen combines the intimacy of a small ship with thoughtful solo-specific touches, making it perfect if you want a welcoming, friendly atmosphere.

2. Ambassador – Adult-Only, Affordable, and Social

Ambassador Cruises are fantastic for solos who want a calm, adult-only environment. Without kids running around, the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, ideal for mingling and making new friends at your own pace.

Why Ambassador works so well for solos:

• No single supplement on many sailings: It keeps cruising affordable for solo travellers.
• Dedicated solo cabins with low supplement: Even when supplements apply, they are fair and competitive.
• Welcome get-togethers: These make introductions easy and stress-free, so you don’t have to worry about starting conversations from scratch.
• Adult-only environment: Encourages a more relaxed vibe, perfect for conversation and connection.

Ambassador makes solo cruising feel comfortable, social, and budget-friendly—all at the same time.

3. NCL – Pioneering Solo-Friendly Cabins

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) was one of the first to design studio cabins specifically for solo travellers, and it set a new standard in the cruise industry. Their approach shows that solo guests are a priority, not an afterthought.

Why NCL is a favourite among solos:

• Solo cabins priced for one: No hidden extra fees—transparent and fair pricing.
• Private solo lounges: A dedicated space to meet other solo travellers, host informal gatherings, or just relax with a book and coffee.
• Daily solo-focused activities: From casual meet-ups to themed dinners, there’s always an opportunity to socialize without feeling pressured.
• Plenty of onboard activities: Shows, attractions, dining experiences, and group events provide endless opportunities to meet people naturally.

With NCL, you get the perfect balance of privacy and social opportunities—ideal for those who want options on how much to engage.

4. Riviera – Cruises Designed with Solos in Mind

Riviera really goes above and beyond. They don’t just accommodate solo travellers—they create entire cruises just for them. From start to finish, solos are treated as a priority.

Why Riviera is outstanding for solo travellers:

• Dedicated solo sailings and ships: These cruises are designed to encourage interaction without forcing it.
• Single supplement often removed: Solos get the chance to book at rates comparable to couples.
• Tour managers for solo guests: Personalized guidance for introductions, dining arrangements, and ice-breaking social activities.
• Small ships, intimate environment: Makes socializing feel natural, plus welcome dinners and drinks help break the ice.

Riviera is especially great if it’s your first solo cruise, or if you want a guided, structured approach to meeting people.

5. Marella – Stress-Free All-Inclusive Cruising

Marella Cruises are a fantastic choice for solos who want all-inclusive simplicity. Everything is included—meals, drinks, tips, flights, transfers—so you can focus on enjoying your holiday without worrying about hidden costs.

Why Marella works so well for solo travellers:

• Structured solo meet-ups: Coffee mornings, hosted dinners, and farewell drinks make it easy to meet other guests naturally.
• Budget-friendly pricing: All-inclusive costs and low supplements make it easier to plan and relax.
• Friendly social environment: Cruises feel relaxed but social, so you can make connections without pressure.
• Everything taken care of from the start: Stress-free planning is a huge advantage for solo travellers who want a hassle-free experience.

Marella is perfect if you want a stress-free, social cruise experience that’s affordable and inclusive.

6. Hurtigruten – Adventure-Focused and Purpose-Driven

Hurtigruten is a different style of cruising—it’s all about destinations and experiences rather than onboard entertainment. Solo travellers who want adventure, learning, and meaningful connections will love it.

Why Hurtigruten is great for solos:

• Smaller ships for easier social interaction: Meeting other travellers feels natural and unforced.
• Expert-led excursions and lectures: Activities create instant conversation starters and shared experiences.
• Open dining seating: Makes mealtimes relaxed, so you can join a table without awkwardness.
• Unique, bucket-list itineraries: Ideal for travellers who want a more purposeful journey than a traditional cruise.

Hurtigruten is perfect if your solo cruise is about adventure and discovery, and connecting with others happens naturally along the way.

Solo Cruising Doesn’t Have to Be Lonely

Choosing the right cruise line is the first step to a stress-free solo adventure. With over 30 years of experience, we match every solo traveller to the perfect cruise and handle all the logistics, from bookings to solo cabin advice.

We treat every solo traveller like family and specialize in finding the best solo cruise deals with minimal single supplements. Whether you want to chat with one of our experts on 02380 714790, join our solo Facebook group, or sign up for our weekly solo emails, we make it easy to start your solo cruise journey with confidence.

Solo cruising is exciting, relaxing, and social—and with the right cruise line, you’ll never feel alone.