What makes a cruise ‘the best’?
At World of Cruising, our team of experts curate ‘best for…’ guides rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. We look at what cruise lines stand out for each destination we review and each type of traveller. We look for those subtle, if-you-know-you-know details so we can tailor our recommendations.
At a glance
- Cruise lines are increasingly trying to cater for the needs of solo travellers
- Most cruise lines have some form of offering targeted at solo travellers, but some go above and beyond with special cabins and dedicated sailing
- In most cases, you'll have to spend some time digging around to find sailings with no single supplements or available single cabins
Sure, the very idea of going on a cruise alone might sound daunting at first – dinner for one, anyone? But more and more cruise lines are getting wise to solo travellers’ needs, with smart studio cabins, exclusive lounges, no-fuss pricing and built-in ways to meet like-minded shipmates. If the mood should take you, of course. So, whether you’re flying solo by choice or circumstance, these are the best cruises to book right now
Best for value: Ambassador Cruise Line
If you’re UK-based and budget-conscious, Ambassador tops the solo cruising charts. A recent study crowned it the best value for lone travellers, with solo rates from just £156 per day. Onboard its vessels – Ambience or Ambition – you’ll find a friendly, mature crowd, quality entertainment and (praise be) no kids, because it’s strictly 18+. Solo-friendly activities and excursions are baked into the mix, and single supplements are usually reduced or waived altogether.
Itineraries: Round-trip UK sailings to Norway, the Med, Northern Lights and more.
Who’s this cruise for? Value-savvy solo travellers, especially over 50s, looking for grown-up company and no-fly convenience.
What can I expect to pay? From around £1,000 per person for seven-night sailings, including full board, entertainment and tips.
See offers: Ambassador Cruise Line
Best for sociable sailings: Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
If you fancy a small ship with a big welcome, Fred. Olsen is the dreamy choice for savvy solo cruisers. Solo cabins are available across the fleet, and you’ll find hosted dinners, informal coffee mornings, and even dancing partners for evening balls. It’s all gently traditional and warmly sociable, especially on the dedicated solo cruises.
Itineraries: Canary Islands, Norwegian fjords and Mediterranean gems, all round-trip from UK ports.
Who’s this cruise for? Friendly, outgoing solo travellers who want to mingle without feeling out of place.
What can I expect to pay? From £1,600 per person for seven-night itineraries, including meals, entertainment and port calls.
See offers:Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Best for travelling in style: Virgin Voyages
If your solo vibe is more quaffing cocktails at the cabaret, less nerdy quiz night and sudoku, Virgin Voyages properly delivers. These adults-only ships are designed to be sociable without pressure – think solo cabins, stylish bars, brunches and group fitness classes that make it easy and seamless to meet people. And with tips, Wi-Fi and most dining included, there’s no awkward money chat either.
Itineraries: 3-8-night Caribbean, Med and transatlantic cruises.
Who’s this cruise for? Trend-conscious solo travellers who like a grown-up, fun-forward scene they can get stuck right into.
What can I expect to pay? From around £1,900 per person for five-night sailings in a solo Sea View cabin.
See offers: Virgin Voyages
Best for low solo supplements: MSC Cruises
MSC may not have solo cabins as such. But the fact that it frequently waives or reduces single supplements makes it a brilliant-value pick – arguably one of the best-value mainstream options. Ships are lively, European in feel and full of bars, shows and social opportunities. Join a group excursion or hit the nightclub – you’ll find you’re never lacking for company, if and when you want it.
Itineraries: The Mediterranean, the Caribbean and beyond.
Who’s this cruise for? Budget-conscious solo cruisers who enjoy people-watching and the unmistakable buzz of a bigger ship.
What can I expect to pay? From around £650 per person for seven-night sailings when solo deals apply.
See offers: MSC Cruises
Best for classic elegance: Cunard
Cruising solo in a ball gown? This one’s for you. Cunard’s elegant Queen Mary 2 and sister ships offer dedicated single staterooms and a refined social programme with hosted dining tables, formal balls and daily afternoon tea. It’s ideal if you want a bit of tradition, glamour and the chance to waltz your way into some intriguing new friendships.
Itineraries: Classic old-school transatlantic crossings, plus joyful jaunts around the British Isles, the Mediterranean and more.
Who’s this cruise for? Elegance-loving solo travellers with a taste for the finer things in life.
What can I expect to pay? From around £1,500 per person for seven-night itineraries, including dining and entertainment.
See offers: Cunard
Best for luxury: Oceania Cruises
Some of the newer and refitted ships sailing under the Oceania banner now feature solo cabins. The line’s relaxed luxury, fantastic cuisine and generous solo traveller perks – like hosted cocktail receptions and excursions – make this an excellent luxe choice. There’s no forced mingling, to be sure. But you can rest assured, there’s always someone interesting to chat to over dinner and wine.
Itineraries: Mediterranean, Asia, South America and more.
Who’s this cruise for? Independent travellers with a taste for fine food and enrichment.
What can I expect to pay? From £3,500 per person for 10-night voyages in solo cabins or double occupancy with reduced supplement.
See offers: Oceania Cruises
Best for activities: Royal Caribbean
Solo and social? Royal Caribbean’s action-packed megaships offer studio staterooms (some even have balconies) and an endless list of group-friendly activities – think trivia nights, rock climbing, wine tastings and fun themed parties. The line’s Solo Cruisers Facebook groups are buzzing as well – a savvy way to connect before you even board. Studio cabins vary by ship, so be sure to check availability before you book
Itineraries: Caribbean, Med, Alaska and worldwide.
Who’s this cruise for? Outgoing solo cruisers who want a fun, fast-paced trip with new faces around every corner.
What can I expect to pay? From £1,000 per person for seven-night cruises in studio staterooms.
See offers: Royal Caribbean
Best for mature travellers: Saga Cruises
Saga is a top pick for over-50s travelling solo. Every cruise is no-fly for UK travellers and includes door-to-door UK transfers, insurance, drinks, excursions and Wi-Fi. The single cabins are thoughtfully designed, and the onboard atmosphere is relaxed, friendly and inclusive. Ideal, if you’re the sort of person who’d rather chat about books than belt out karaoke.
Itineraries: British Isles, Med, Canary Islands and beyond.
Who’s this cruise for? Solo travellers over 50 who want a smart, all-inclusive escape with zero hassle.
What can I expect to pay? From around £2,500 per person for seven- to ten-night cruises with all extras included.
See offers:Saga Cruises
Best for river cruisers: Riviera Travel
Riviera Travel offers a refined, unhurried way to explore Europe’s waterways, with thoughtfully curated itineraries and no hidden costs. Cruises are adult-only, and solo travellers are well looked after, with dedicated cabins and regular no-solo-supplement deals.
The atmosphere is relaxed and sociable, with guided excursions, talks and regional cuisine all included. Expect panoramic lounges, serene sundecks and just 140 passengers or so onboard – enough to make friends or find your own quiet corner.
Itineraries: Rhine, Danube, Douro, Seine and more.
Who’s this cruise for? Culture-focused travellers who like value, comfort and company without the crowds.
What can I expect to pay? From around £2,100 per person for a 7-night river cruise including excursions, drinks with meals and tips.
See offers: Riviera Travel
Best for expedition cruising: HX Hurtigruten Expeditions
HX Hurtigruten Expeditions doesn’t market itself directly at singles, but it does offer no-solo supplements on selected sailings departing within the next six months. The line’s active, nature-first vibe works brilliantly for confident solo travellers. You’ll join challenging hikes, Zodiac boat trips, inspiring lectures and photogenic landings with fellow passengers. And the famously relaxed Nordic spirit means dinner for one is never an awkward ordeal.
Itineraries: Norway, Svalbard, Antarctica and beyond.
Who’s this cruise for? Intrepid solo travellers who want to embark on a meaningful, memorable adventure.
What can I expect to pay? From £4,000 per person for seven-night Arctic itineraries.
See offers: HX Hurtigruten Expeditions
Best for cultural enrichment: Holland America Line
If your idea of a great solo cruise involves learning something new – whether that’s brushwork or Beethoven – Holland America Line might be your perfect match. It features dedicated single staterooms on select ships and enrichment programming, including live music from Lincoln Center Stage and hands-on cooking workshops. You’ll love the aspirational, grown-up vibe. Who knows, you might end up meeting an entrancing fellow traveller.
Itineraries: Caribbean, Alaska, Mediterranean, Northern Europe and beyond.
Who’s this cruise for? Culturally curious solo travellers who enjoy immersive experiences and quality programming (not to mention poolside daiquiris).
What can I expect to pay? From around £2,000 per person for seven-night itineraries in single staterooms or double cabins with reduced supplements, including dining and entertainment.
See offers:Holland America Line
Enjoyed this story?
Choose World of Cruising as a Preferred Source on Google News to keep up to date with our latest articles
Set as preferred source
