carnival cruise lines for singles

Best Carnival Singles Cruises 2024+ Tips to Meetup

If you happen to be single, you might be wondering if Carnival cruises are good for solo travelers or for meeting up with other singles while you’re onboard.

Below we cover the most suitable options for choosing the best Carnival cruises for solo travelers and how appropriate Carnival cruises are depending on your age as well as some info on some possibly better alternatives.

Are Carnival Cruises Good for Singles?

Although Carnival doesn’t specifically cater to solo travelers, a Carnival cruise can be a good option for younger singles because, as a general rule, they tend to attract younger adults, typically in their 20s and 30s.

With 2000 to 5000+ passengers onboard, there will always be other solo travellers to mix within this age range.

As well as families and couples, there will be singles who are traveling in groups with their friends as well as solo travelers.

Carnival is one of our top choice cruises for singles in their 20s , as well as being a good option for the early 30s singles age range if you still love the higher energy fun vibes. In short Carnival is one of the best fun cruises for young adult singles.

Best Carnival Cruises for Singles

If you are specifically wanting to sail on a Carnival cruise ship with other singles, the best cruises to book would be charted singles cruises that are taken on a Carnival cruise ship.

With these dedicated singles cruises, you sail as a singles group, but they don’t charter the whole ship, there’ll also be regular cruise passengers onboard.

The advantage of a chartered singles cruise is that as a group of singles, you will all mix together and take part in your own singles meet-ups and activities, which other regular cruisers on the ship won’t be able to take part in even if they are single.

One of the most well-known solo traveler tour operators is singlescruise.com.  

At the time of writing, they offered 17 singles cruises, of which four are available on Carnival Cruise ships:

• April 23, 2023 from Miami, FL aboard the Carnival Celebration
• April 29, 2023 from Los Angeles, CA aboard the Carnival Panorama
• March 10, 2024 from Miami, FL aboard the Carnival Horizon
• June 27 – July 4th, 2024 from Seattle aboard the Carnival Luminosa

Here you can find a current, up-to-date list of singlescruise’s on Carnival cruise ships here .

As you can see, there are only two Carnival singles cruises a year, so opportunities may be limited.

However, there’s always still the option of booking the regular Carnival cruises.

Share a Room on a Carnival Singles Cruise

Some chartered singles cruises offer the option of sharing a room with another same-sex guest.  This allows both guests to travel cheaper and also have someone to make friends with from the off, which for some people can make mixing with others more comfortable.

Do Carnival Cruises Have Single Occupancy Rooms?

Carnival cruise lines do not offer single cabins on any of the ships in the fleet.   All rooms are double occupancy. 

If a solo traveler books a double occupancy room, they pay the full rate for the room, which is the same price as if two people were booked.

The only small difference in price would be that only one person’s port fees and taxes would be charged.

Some people book for two passengers and pay both guests the port fees and taxes, and when the second person doesn’t turn up, the port fees and taxes are refunded.

We have put together a list of cruise lines with solo cabins if that is your preference.

Carnival Solo Rates

Occasionally there can be special offer solo rates available.   These aren’t commonly seen, so if you see them when booking, they are well worth taking advantage of.

Best time to Cruise on Carnival for Singles

If you’re single and looking to meet other singles on a Carnival Cruise the best time to cruise would be on Spring Break or take short 3-5 night cruises.

Carnival Cruise Singles Mixe rs

Look out for singles mixers meet ups on the first night of your cruise.

These will often be held in one of the bars and for specific groups, including:

How the meet-ups are named might also vary.  For example, there might be meet-up groups for “Solo travelers” or “Independent travelers”

Consider attending any that are singles orientated.

General “singles” meet ups attended by people who might be more interested in mingling with other singles

Solo or independent are more indicative of people traveling solo without particular intentions of being a single hooking up on a cruise .

However, if there is no specific singles options and just solo options, take them.

Carnival cruise is known to be LGBT-friendly and will arrange meet-ups for people to socialize and get to know each other.

Carnival Cruise for Singles Over 40

Carnival cruise is marketed as the “fun ship” and does tend to attract a younger demographic, mostly 20s to 30s.

There may be younger singles in their 20s, with perhaps more of those in their 30s traveling with couples or with families.

In general, the Carnival cruise isn’t considered the best cruise option for singles over 40.  There are other choices that might be more suited.

It might be worth you checking out our recommended best cruises for singles over 40.

Saying that, if Carnival is your cruise of choice, it would be best to avoid the spring breaks and instead travel in the fall when the average age of guests will likely be higher.

Another tip would be to take a longer vacation, 7 to 10 nights or more.

As an alternative option popular with over 40s are the best Royal Caribbean for singles cruises , some of which also have solo cabins

Carnival Cruise for Singles Over 50’s and Seniors

The older you get, the less suited the Carnival cruise tends to be for most singles over 50.  The age demographic is going to be a lot younger and singles in the older age groups will be a lot less in number, so your chances of meeting someone will be much less.

Depending on your age, we have much better singles cruise options for:

• Best Cruises for Singles Over 50s
• Best Singles cruises for Over 60s seniors details of discounts for over 55s on Carnival

Is Carnival a Gay Cruise for Singles

Carnival is a good option for gay singles in their 20’s to 30’s. Carnival is known to be gay friendly holding a number of LGBT+ events.

They also have the Carnival Pride cruise ship!

Look for events and activities and meet-ups marketed towards the gay community if you want to meet other gay and lesbian singles.

Is Carnival Cruise for Adults Only?

Carnival cruise is available to guests of all ages.   Carnival is generally popular with families with young kids as well as teens and young adults, both singles, couples, and groups.

There are adult-only areas on every ship if you want to, including:

• Alchemy Bar
• BlueIguana Tequila Bar
• Cloud 9 spa (over 18’s)

How Do You Get Laid On A Carnival Cruise

If you are single and looking to get laid on a cruise, you will want to read how to get laid on a cruise .

It’s no secret that libidos increase when away on a fun cruising vacation.   The best option would be chartered singles cruises, as almost everyone onboard will at least be single.

On regular Carnival cruises, three-day short getaways are typically popular will guests intent on having an all-round good time.

Spring break is an especially good time for people in their 20s and maybe 30s.

You might also be interested in the best singles cruises to hook up , if that is one of your primary reasons for booking a cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a single person go on a carnival cruise.

Adults over 21 years of age on the day of embarkation can go on a Carnival cruise alone.

Does Carnival Have A Single Supplement Fee?

Carnival cruises only have double occupancy rooms, so as a solo traveler, you will have to pay a 100% supplement fee in paying the full price for a cabin.

How Do You Meet Singles On A Carnival Cruise?

The best way to meet other singles on a Carnival cruise is to attend a Singles Mixer.   Here you’ll meet other singles who are also interested in mixing with other singles.

Of course, there will also be other singles onboard.  The more people you chat to the more singles you’ll potentially meet.

Join the sails Facebook group, and you can potentially meet other singles you even set sail and arrange to meet while onboard.

Does Tinder Work on a Carnival Cruise Ship?

Tinder is a location-based app that requires an internet connection.   

You can purchase a Carnival Wi-Fi package, although the quality and availability of the internet connection can vary depending on your location and where you are in the ship’s itinerary.

Another potential issue is your location may not show up accurately depending on the signal provided and instead report your location at the home port while you are at sea.

Bearing in mind there are only a few thousand people on the ship, looking to have as much fun as possible, the odds of someone else you might like look to date also being on tinder is going to be slim.

An alternative option might be to try out the Cruise Ship Mingle dating app which is a way to meet singles online before embarkation.

Can I Add a Guest to a Carnival Cruise Room?

All Carnival cruise staterooms are double occupancy, so if you booked as a solo traveler and have since met someone or have a friend who wants to join you, you should be able to get them added to the room.

The rates may be different, and they will also need to pay port fees and taxes.

What’s the Best Carnival Cruise Ship for Singles?

When it comes to which actual Carnival cruise ships in the fleet are best for singles, it really comes down to your own personal preferences.

The majority of cruise ships provide the “fun ship” experience.  However, choose the ships that suit your activity, dining and budget, and embarkation dates.

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Unleash the Fun: the Ultimate Carnival Singles Cruise Guide

Calling all solo travelers!

If you’re on the hunt for a unique way to meet new people, forge lasting connections, and add a dash of romance to your travels, then a Carnival singles cruise might just be what you’re looking for.

Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper.

It’s not merely about finding a date; it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant community of singles who share your sense of adventure.

With activities and events designed to bring people together, from cocktail mixers to group excursions, every aspect of the cruise is crafted to spark connections and create memorable experiences.

Imagine waking to the gentle sway of the ocean, filled with anticipation for the day’s adventures.

Whether it’s exploring exotic locales with new friends, dancing the night away under the stars, or enjoying a quiet conversation over dinner with a view, every moment is an opportunity to meet someone special and make every day of your cruise an adventure.

So, are you ready to take the leap into a journey filled with potential and excitement?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Carnival singles cruises, from choosing the right itinerary to making the most of every onboard activity and social opportunity.

Let’s embark on this journey together, and discover the endless possibilities that await on the open sea.

Your Carnival singles cruise adventure starts now!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Carnival Singles Cruise Guide

Embarking on a singles cruise can be the start of an unforgettable adventure, and there’s no better way to dive into this exhilarating experience than with Carnival’s renowned singles cruises.

Imagine setting sail on a voyage where every detail is curated with the sole purpose of connecting you with like-minded adventurers, all while basking in the luxury and excitement of a Carnival cruise ship.

This guide is your first step into a world where the sea becomes your backdrop for romance, friendship, and endless entertainment.

Are Carnival Cruises Good For Singles?

Carnival Cruises are a fantastic choice for singles looking to dive into the cruising lifestyle, and there are several compelling reasons why.

1. Vibrant Social Scene

Carnival Cruises are renowned for their lively atmosphere and dynamic social scene.

With a diverse array of onboard activities and events specifically designed to encourage interaction and fun, you’ll find it incredibly easy to meet new people. From themed nights and dance parties to group activities and workshops, there’s always something happening that brings singles together.

2. Tailored Activities for Singles

Understanding the unique dynamics of solo travelers, Carnival often organizes events that are exclusively for singles. These can range from welcome mixers on the first day to special excursions that are perfect for making connections.

These activities are not just about meeting potential romantic interests; they’re also great for finding travel buddies and making new friends.

3. Diverse Age Groups

One of the best things about Carnival singles cruises is the wide range of age groups they attract. Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond, you’ll find fellow travelers in the same stage of life.

This diversity ensures that everyone can find peers to connect with, making the cruise experience enjoyable for all.

4. Freedom and Flexibility

Traveling solo on a Carnival Cruise offers an unparalleled level of freedom and flexibility. You can choose to join in the group activities or explore on your own.

It’s the perfect balance of having the opportunity to be social when you want and finding moments of solitude when you need them. Plus, with the ship’s staff always ready to assist, you’ll feel well taken care of throughout your journey.

5. Safe and Secure Environment

For singles, safety can be a significant concern, but Carnival Cruises provide a secure environment where you can relax and enjoy your vacation. With security measures in place and a crew that’s always on hand to assist, you can feel safe as you meet new people and explore new destinations.

Don’t Forget The Mixers

Carnival Cruises goes above and beyond to ensure that every solo traveler feels welcomed and included, making it an exceptional choice for anyone setting sail on their own. One of the standout features of Carnival Cruises is their inclusive approach to social gatherings, offering dedicated singles mixers and LGBT meet-ups. These events are a golden opportunity to connect with fellow solo travelers who share similar interests and are looking to make new friends or perhaps find that special someone.

Attending these mixers and meet-ups can transform your cruise experience, providing a warm and friendly environment where connections are natural and effortless. Whether you’re looking to share a laugh over a cocktail, find a companion for shore excursions, or enjoy a dinner with new friends, these gatherings are designed to create moments of connection and camaraderie.

To take your social planning to the next level, joining a Facebook group for your specific sailing is a brilliant move. These online communities are a hub for pre-cruise introductions and organizing meet-ups. By connecting with other singles before you even step on board, you can arrange to meet a group of like-minded travelers, ensuring you have a friendly face to look forward to seeing on the ship. This pre-cruise connection can make your embarkation day even more exciting, knowing that your solo adventure is already off to a social start.

Joining these groups not only allows for arranging meet-ups but also serves as a platform for sharing tips, excursions plans, and maybe even finding a cabin mate to avoid single supplements. It’s a resourceful way to maximize your cruise experience, ensuring that from day one, you’re part of a community looking to make the most out of their Carnival cruise adventure.

So, if you’re embarking on a Carnival cruise solo, remember to check out the singles mixers and LGBT meet-ups onboard. And don’t forget to join your sailing’s Facebook group ahead of time. It’s these connections that can turn a great vacation into an unforgettable journey filled with new friendships and incredible memories.

List of Carnival Singles Cruises In 2024

Throughout 2024 Carnival have scheduled a series of unforgettable journeys where each cruise offers its own unique adventure, setting sail to some of the most breathtaking destinations the world has to offer.

• 10 March 2024  – Western Caribbean cruise on Carnival Horizon (6 nights)
• 25 May 2024  – Memorial Day Caribbean cruise on Carnival Horizon (8 nights)
• 27 June 2024  – Alaska cruise on Carnival Luminosa (7 nights)
• 13 July 2024  – Caribbean cruise on Carnival Celebration (8 nights)
• 7 September 2024  – Caribbean cruise on Carnival Firenze (7 Nights)

Does Carnival Have Single Cabins?

Navigating the world of solo cruising with Carnival may look a bit different compared to other cruise lines, particularly when it comes to accommodations. It’s noteworthy that Carnival does not offer single staterooms, a unique aspect that sets it apart from some of its competitors. This means that solo travelers are required to book double staterooms and, in turn, face a single supplement fee. This fee often equates to 100% of the cost, essentially requiring solo travelers to cover the expense as if for two guests. Such a policy underscores the importance of planning and budgeting for those looking to embark on a Carnival cruise alone.

However, it’s not all set in stone. Carnival understands the unique position of solo travelers and occasionally offers special deals to make solo cruising more accessible and affordable. These deals often come in the form of reduced or even waived single supplements, providing a much-welcomed relief for those traveling by themselves. These promotions typically emerge around 12 weeks before departure, targeting ships with higher availability. For savvy solo travelers, keeping an eye out for these deals can significantly enhance the affordability of a solo cruise adventure, making the dream of setting sail on the open seas more attainable. Always stay connected with Carnival’s offers and be ready to seize these opportunities when they arise, as they can turn a solo cruise from a costly endeavor into a value-packed, unforgettable experience.

Does Carnival Have Adults-Only Cruises?

While Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide array of activities suitable for guests of all ages, it does not specifically offer cruises that are exclusively for adults. However, understanding the desire of many adults for spaces where they can relax and enjoy a child-free environment, Carnival has thoughtfully included adult-only areas within most of its ships. These dedicated spaces allow adults to enjoy a serene and more mature atmosphere away from the family buzz.

Among these adult-centric havens is the Cloud 9 Spa Thermal Suite, offering a tranquil spa experience with various thermal therapies designed to soothe and rejuvenate. For those looking to try their luck or enjoy some adult entertainment, the onboard casino provides a vibrant nightlife option. Additionally, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is a standout feature, offering an outdoor oasis where adults can unwind in peace, enjoying plush loungers, whirlpools, and a bar service, all without the presence of younger guests.

For those specifically seeking an adults-only cruising experience, there are unique opportunities through third-party charters. Occasionally, companies will charter Carnival ships to host specialized adult-only cruises, offering unique themes and atmospheres tailored to adult preferences. One notable example is the Big Nude Boat, a clothing-optional cruise that caters exclusively to guests aged 21 and over. These charters provide an alternative for adults looking for a cruise experience with an adult-oriented focus, allowing for booking directly onto these specialized voyages. While these offerings are less frequent and require a bit of research to find, they represent a compelling option for adults seeking a Carnival cruise with an exclusively adult guest list.

Final Thoughts

Carnival Cruises offers a vibrant, inclusive, and fun-filled option for singles looking to explore the seas and meet new people. While Carnival doesn’t provide specific single cabins, they do offer a variety of accommodations and occasionally, special deals that make solo cruising more accessible. Their ships are a haven for adults seeking both relaxation and adventure, with exclusive adult-only areas like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, the Cloud 9 Spa, and lively casinos. Additionally, for those seeking an exclusively adult atmosphere, third-party charters on Carnival ships cater to unique adult-only experiences, such as the Big Nude Boat.

Embarking on a Carnival cruise as a solo traveler opens up a world of possibilities. From connecting with fellow singles through specially curated events and mixers to finding peace in adult-only spaces, there’s something on board for every type of traveler. Carnival’s dedication to creating memorable experiences is evident in their wide range of activities, destinations, and accommodations designed to meet the diverse needs of their guests.

If you’re yearning for adventure, camaraderie, and the chance to make unforgettable memories, now is the perfect time to book your Carnival singles cruise. Whether you’re looking to dive into the vibrant social scene, relax in exclusive adult-only areas, or take advantage of special solo traveler deals, Carnival has you covered. Don’t let the opportunity to experience the trip of a lifetime slip away. Visit Carnival today to explore your options, find the perfect cruise, and embark on a journey that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come. Book your Carnival cruise today and set sail on an adventure that’s as unique as you are.

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10 Best Cruises for Singles of All Ages

Here are some of the best cruises for solo travelers at any age.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Traveling the world without having to pack and unpack multiple times is ideal. And on a cruise, that's a reality as you head from destination to destination on what is basically a moving luxury hotel (or a floating city, in some cases ).

Being able to sleep in Bratislava and wake up in Budapest in five-star-worthy accommodations without having to drag all your stuff with you is as convenient as it is luxurious. But cruises aren't just for couples or families — they're great for singles as well.

Colleen McDaniel, the editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic , tells Travel + Leisure that cruises are a great place to meet new people. Some ships have single cabins, host parties for single passengers, or even waive the single supplement fee ( river cruises tend to do that most often).

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers studio cabins for single travelers that include access to an exclusive lounge with complimentary espresso and snacks. "One of the benefits of sailing as a single is cruises are generally social. That's how they're designed," McDaniel says. "If you're somebody who's comfortable traveling by themselves and looks to make friends on vacation, there's no shortage of people you're going to meet."

But while younger travelers might want to hop around Europe and party every night, someone in their 50s may be interested in a longer cruise with opportunities for cultural immersion. Whatever your travel style, here are the best cruises for singles of any age.

Cruises for Singles in Their 20s

Cruises that last three to five nights are great for singles in their 20s, in part because they're less expensive, McDaniel says. If you do end up having to pay for a single supplement, "it's a little bit less of a hit to your wallet."

New cruise line Virgin Voyages offers exciting journeys aboard their ultra-Instagrammable ship, Scarlet Lady . The four-night Fire and Sunset Soirees cruise from Miami is ideal for travelers in their 20s or 30s looking for a healthy mix of party and wellness. All cruisers must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon boarding.

Another great option is a three-day cruise to the Bahamas from Miami on Norwegian Sky . The ship was refurbished in 2019 and offers 10 dining options, a full-service Starbucks, and a casino for late-night bonding around the blackjack table with your new shipmates. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required upon boarding for guests ages 12 and up.

Cruises for Singles in Their 30s

According to McDaniel, cruisers in their 30s are likely looking for a good mix of "bustling nightlife and engaging in classes, but they also really want to explore and experience culture." She says river cruises that offer things like silent discos and paint-and-wine classes appeal to this age group.

The eight-day Vienna Vibe cruise from U by Uniworld is a great option (note the cruise line is on hiatus until 2023). This cruise line was originally built to cater to millennials, and this itinerary includes excursions like a walking tour of Vienna and biking around Passau. On board, morning yoga classes and a rooftop ice bar ensure guests will always have something to do. A negative COVID-19 test may be required for unvaccinated passengers when entering foreign countries.

Other travelers might want to opt for a South American adventure with National Geographic. The 10-day Upper Amazon river cruise aboard the Delfin II offers a chance to spot diverse wildlife within this impressive ecosystem.

Cruises for Singles in Their 40s

Upscale, bigger cruises on ships from Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity will likely appeal to cruisers in their 40s, McDaniel says. These cruises tend to be a bit more expensive, but "appeal because they have some really great excursions and might go off the beaten path. They're destination-immersive experiences."

The seven-night Galapagos Southern Loop on Celebrity Xpedition is one fantastic option. The Galapagos Islands are a great destination for solo travelers and this cruise is a solid way to see them. Search for sea turtles, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies during the day, and spend the evening in the ship's hot tub or take in one of the nightly lectures by certified naturalists from the Galapagos National Park. All guests must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon entry.

A seven-day Norwegian Fjords cruise aboard Princess Cruises' Sky Princess is an additional option for travelers hoping to explore another part of the world best seen from a ship.

Cruises for Singles in Their 50s

McDaniel says that a river cruise is a great option for someone in their 50s, with some lines waiving the single supplement fee and putting age restrictions on passengers (since you may not want little kids running around). Some companies, she notes, do a great job of hosting single mixers, which adds to the social experience. A cruise along the Danube or Rhine rivers is always a great choice, and there are several lines to choose from.

Sail along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers on Viking's Grand European Tour , which starts in Amsterdam and ends in Budapest. Along the way, the ship stops in charming towns and major European capitals for a well-rounded trip through continental Europe.

The twelve-day Cities of Light cruise , also from Viking River Cruises, carries passengers between Paris and Prague with several stops in Germany along the way. On board, sip a glass of wine and enjoy the sight of the cities slipping by. For both Viking Cruises, guests must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon boarding.

Cruises for Single Seniors

A world cruise is a great option for seniors, McDaniel says, as they tend to have more free time. These cruises visit multiple countries over a longer period of time, and after a while, the boat feels like home.

"One of the great things about being a senior is you tend to have a far more flexible schedule," she says. "You also likely have a bit more disposable income."

The 71-day Grand Africa Voyage from Holland America Line offers a round-trip journey from Fort Lauderdale, stopping in Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Greece, Jordan, Tanzania, Madagascar, South Africa, and more on its cruise around the African continent. All guests must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon arrival.

Cunard's Centenary World Voyages is even longer, at 117 nights aboard the Queen Mary 2 . The cruise includes two transatlantic crossings and stops across Asia, South Africa, and Australia, departing and arriving in New York City. On a cruise this long, even the shiest solo traveler is bound to make a few friends. All guests ages 12 and up must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 14 days prior to travel.

• Cruise Lines

Embark on a Solo Adventure: Unveiling the Magic of Carnival Singles Cruises

Ever dreamt of setting sail on the open seas, with the horizon stretching endlessly before you and the promise of new adventures at every port?

Welcome to the world of Carnival Singles Cruises , where solo travelers find more than just a vacation—they discover a community. Imagine waking up to breathtaking ocean views, indulging in gourmet meals, and participating in activities tailored just for you, all while meeting like-minded individuals.

Think of the sun-kissed beaches, the exhilarating onboard events, and the possibility of forming connections that last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or perhaps a touch of romance, Carnival Singles Cruises offers an experience that caters to every desire.

So, why wait? Dive into this guide and discover everything you need to know about embarking on a journey that promises memories, friendships, and perhaps, a sprinkle of magic.

Table of Contents

Carnival Singles Cruises: Everything You Need To Know

Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick glance at what we’ll be covering in this post. We’ll explore whether Carnival Cruise Line is a good fit for singles, the unique experiences they offer, and some practical tips to make the most of your solo cruise journey. So, whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or considering your first solo voyage, this guide is for you. Let’s set sail!

Is Carnival Cruise Line good for singles?

Absolutely! Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its friendly and warm atmosphere, making it a top choice for singles. Here’s why:

• Inclusivity at its Best : Carnival ensures that every guest, including solo travelers, feels welcomed and included. From group activities to solo traveler meet-ups, there’s always something happening to help you mingle.
• Personal Touch : Remember the time when you wanted to just relax and read a book on the deck? Carnival offers cozy spots perfect for some ‘me time’. And if you’re up for sharing stories, there are plenty of fellow solo cruisers eager to exchange their exciting tales.
• Practical Tips for Singles : Traveling solo? No worries. Carnival provides dedicated services for singles, including cabin options tailored for solo travelers. Plus, their staff is always on hand to offer tips and advice, ensuring you have a smooth sailing experience.
• Interactive Elements : Join in on fun quizzes like “Which Caribbean island suits your vibe?” or participate in polls to share your cruise preferences. It’s all about engaging and making memories.
• Addressing Common Concerns : Safety first! Carnival takes the security of its guests seriously. As a solo traveler, you can rest assured knowing that you’re in safe hands, with 24/7 security and assistance.

So, if you’re considering a solo cruise, Carnival Cruise Line is definitely worth exploring. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite way to travel!

List of Carnival Singles Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of cruises tailored for singles, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience. Here’s a glimpse of what’s on offer:

• Caribbean Getaways : Perfect for those looking for a well-deserved tropical escape. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore vibrant towns, and make new friends along the way.
• European Adventures : For the history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Wander through ancient cities, savor delectable cuisines, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of European cultures.
• Alaskan Expeditions : Experience the majestic beauty of glaciers, witness the Northern Lights, and embark on thrilling excursions. Perfect for those seeking a unique adventure.
• Mexican Riviera Retreats : Sun, sand, and endless fun. Explore bustling markets, relax on pristine beaches, and dance the night away.

Remember, each cruise offers a blend of group activities, solo traveler events, and personal leisure time, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling journey.

Does Carnival have single cabins?

Yes, they do! Understanding the needs of solo travelers, Carnival Cruise Line offers Studio Cabins designed specifically for singles. These cabins provide all the comforts of a standard room but are tailored to accommodate solo guests. They’re cozy, well-equipped, and often situated close to social hubs on the ship, making it easier for you to mingle and meet fellow travelers. Plus, booking a single cabin means you won’t have to pay the usual single supplement fee, making your trip both enjoyable and budget-friendly.

Does Carnival have adults-only cruises?

While Carnival Cruise Line is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, they also understand the desire for adults-only experiences. While they don’t offer entire cruises exclusively for adults, they do have Serenity Adult-Only Retreats on their ships. This is a tranquil zone reserved for guests 21 and over, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing environment. Here, you can enjoy a quiet dip in the pool, lounge in a hammock, or sip on a cocktail without the hustle and bustle of younger guests. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some ‘grown-up’ time.

Will you get laid on a Carnival cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line offers a plethora of experiences, from exciting onboard activities to serene relaxation spots. The atmosphere is friendly, warm, and inclusive, making it easy for guests to strike up conversations and form connections.

However, it’s essential to approach this topic with a sense of responsibility and respect. While many guests form genuine friendships and even romantic connections during their cruise, it’s crucial to remember a few things:

• Consent is Paramount : Always ensure that any interaction, be it a friendly chat or a more intimate connection, is consensual. Mutual respect and understanding are the foundation of any genuine relationship.
• Safety First : While Carnival ensures the safety and security of its guests, it’s always a good idea to stay cautious. Avoid sharing personal details too soon and always meet in public areas of the ship.
• Be Genuine : Remember, authenticity is key. Approach others with genuine interest and kindness. It’s always more rewarding to form connections based on shared interests and mutual respect.
• Know Your Boundaries : It’s essential to set and respect boundaries. If you’re not interested in pursuing a romantic connection, it’s okay to communicate that clearly and politely.

In summary, while it’s possible to form deep connections on a Carnival cruise, it’s essential to approach relationships with respect, understanding, and caution. After all, the primary goal is to have a memorable and enriching experience on your journey.

Will I meet somebody special on a Carnival cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line is a melting pot of diverse individuals from various walks of life, all coming together to enjoy a memorable voyage. The atmosphere on board is friendly, warm, and inclusive, making it a conducive environment to meet new people and form lasting connections. So, is it possible to meet someone special? Absolutely! Here’s why:

• Group Activities : Carnival offers a plethora of group activities, from dance classes to trivia nights. These events provide a fantastic opportunity to mingle and meet fellow travelers who share similar interests.
• Solo Traveler Meet-ups : Specifically designed for solo travelers, these meet-ups are a great way to connect with others who are also on a solo journey. Sharing experiences and stories can lead to deep and meaningful connections.
• Diverse Demographic : With guests hailing from different countries and backgrounds, you’re bound to meet someone with a unique perspective and story. This diversity can lead to enriching conversations and potentially, a special connection.
• Shared Experiences : There’s something magical about watching a sunset over the horizon or exploring a new city together. These shared experiences can serve as a foundation for a budding relationship.
• Empathetic Approach : Remember to approach every interaction with empathy and understanding. By genuinely listening and engaging with others, you increase the chances of forming a deep connection.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that while the potential to meet someone special exists, it’s also okay if you don’t. The primary goal is to enjoy the journey, make memories, and perhaps, form friendships that last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking friendship, romance, or just a memorable experience, a Carnival cruise offers opportunities aplenty.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a Carnival cruise is more than just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of new experiences, connections, and memories. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking adventure, someone looking to form genuine friendships, or perhaps hoping to find a special connection, the possibilities are endless on the open sea.

The beauty of a Carnival cruise lies in its inclusivity and warmth. From the dedicated solo traveler meet-ups to the serene adults-only retreats, every guest is made to feel welcomed and valued. The diverse range of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone, be it a dance class, a quiz night, or simply lounging by the pool with a good book.

However, the true essence of a Carnival cruise is the connections you make. Whether it’s bonding over shared experiences, engaging in deep conversations under the starlit sky, or simply sharing a laugh over a meal, these moments become the highlights of your journey.

Remember to approach every interaction with authenticity, empathy, and respect. After all, it’s the genuine connections and memories you make that transform a trip into a truly unforgettable experience. So, as you set sail on your next Carnival cruise, embrace the journey, cherish the moments, and let the waves guide you to new horizons.

Annie Nelson

Most recently, she sailed with Virgin Voyages , bringing her own splash of fun and creativity to the crew.

When she's not on the deck enjoying the ocean breeze, Annie loves sharing her tales and experiences on her blog. Dive into her stories, and you'll feel like you're right there with her, cruising the high seas with a cocktail in hand.

Follow her on Twitter and LinkedIn

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling on a budget

CruiseOverload

Carnival Singles Cruise: Know Before You Book!

All the single ladies… Okay, sorry I had to.

Whether you’re single and going on a solo trip, or want to go on a cruise to date and meet other singles ready to link up.

Carnival Cruise Line may be just what you’re looking for…

With a wide range of activities, a fun-loving crowd, and an energetic atmosphere that will make your time on board unforgettable.

You’ll meet like-minded individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are eager to make new connections, and Carnival makes it easy with singles mixers and LGBT meet-ups to help break the ice.

but is it the right pick for you?

Table of Contents

Is Carnival Cruise Line Good For Singles?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line can be a good option for singles, especially for younger adults in their 20s and 30s.

While Carnival doesn’t specifically cater to solo travelers, their ships attract a young and lively crowd, ensuring that you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.

When choosing a Carnival singles cruise, you may want to consider shorter cruises. These tend to be more popular among groups of single friends, particularly during the spring break season.

These shorter trips allow for a higher energy atmosphere and make it easier for you to find fellow solo travelers to mingle with.

Carnival cruise ships are known as “fun ships,” so expect plenty of entertainment options to keep you busy. Besides the wide array of dining choices, you’ll have access to activities such as:

• Live music and dance performances
• Comedy shows
• Poolside parties
• Themed nights

When it comes to accommodations, Carnival offers a variety of cabin options to suit your needs and budget. While they don’t have specific solo cabins, there are a range of affordable stateroom choices that can work for single travelers.

In summary, if you’re a single person looking for a fun and lively atmosphere while cruising, Carnival Cruise Line can be a great choice.

Consider opting for a shorter cruise during popular travel seasons to maximize your chances of meeting fellow singles and making new friends.

Does Carnival Have Singles Cruises?

Yes, Carnival offers singles cruises which include activities like cocktail parties, pub crawls, costume/theme nights, and speed meeting.

They offer 2-4 of these special cruises a year and they are a great way to meet many other single cruisers.

They don’t have age limits so you can meet young adults as well as an older crowd aboard, however they do tend to be more popular with a younger crowd.

Carnival Singles Cruises Dates

These are the latest sail dates for Carnival Singles Cruises:

• Sailing March 10, 2024 from Miami, FL aboard the Carnival Horizon (6 nights)
• Sailing June 27 – July 4th, 2024 from Seattle aboard the Carnival Luminosa (7 nights)
• Sailing July 28, 2024 from Miami, FL aboard the Carnival SHIP Horizon (6 nights)

You can always visit singlescruise.com for the latest information on single cruises for all major cruise lines.

Best Cruises for Singles

Best cruises for singles over 40.

When you’re looking for the perfect singles cruise for those over 40, Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of options tailored to this age group.

You can expect a fun and lively atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to meet new people and enjoy the onboard amenities. Carnival Singles Cruises are a great choice for singles in their 20s and are still suitable for those in their early 30s who enjoy a high-energy, fun atmosphere.

On Carnival singles cruises for those over 40, you’ll find a range of activities and entertainment options designed to create a fun, social environment. Some popular features include:

• Themed parties and events
• Singles meet-and-greets
• Dance classes
• Wine tastings
• Game nights

Best Cruises for Singles over 50

When you’re over 50 and looking for a singles cruise that caters to your interests and preferences, consider exploring the ships and itineraries offered by Carnival Cruise Line. These cruises emphasize a welcoming atmosphere that encourages singles over 50 to connect with like-minded individuals.

On Carnival singles cruises for those over 50, you can expect the following activities and entertainment options:

• Lounge events for mingling
• Special-interest clubs and groups
• Cooking, art, or photography classes
• Lectures and workshops
• Health and wellness activities

Remember, when booking your singles cruise, it’s essential to research the individual ship and itinerary to ensure it aligns with your interests and preferences.

This way, you can be confident that your cruise experience will provide you with the right atmosphere and activities for making lasting memories and connections.

Carnival Cruise Singles Mixers

Carnival Cruise offers an excellent opportunity for solo travelers looking to socialize and meet new people on their cruise vacations. Make sure to take advantage of their singles mixers held on the first night of your cruise.

Generally, these mixers take place in one of the bars on board the ship and cater to specific demographics, such as LGBTQ singles or singles over 40.

You may also find mixers that are more broadly targeted to solo travelers or independent travelers.

To ensure you don’t miss out, check the FunTimes program, which will provide information on the time and venue for these mixers. In addition, consider joining relevant Facebook groups for your sailing to connect with other singles before your cruise even begins.

During the mixers, be open to socializing and making new connections. Meeting fellow solo travelers may lead to friendships, activity partners, or even romantic interests during your cruise.

Remember to attend other events and activities as well, such as dance lessons or trivia nights, where you can further broaden your social circle on board.

By participating in Carnival Cruise Singles Mixers, you will not only enhance your cruise experience but also create lifelong memories and connections with fellow travelers.

Do Carnival Cruises Have Single Occupancy Rooms?

Unfortunately, Carnival Cruise Lines do not offer single occupancy rooms on their ships. All rooms are designed for double occupancy, which means as a solo traveler, you would have to book a double occupancy room and pay the full rate for that room.

This price is the same as if two people were booked in the room.

Carnival Cruise Line is the only mainstream cruise line that sails regularly in the Caribbean and does not have single occupancy cabins on any of their 23 ships. However, there’s still plenty to do and experience as a solo traveler on a Carnival cruise.

When selecting a stateroom for your cruise, there are different types and locations to choose from, such as Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, or Suite. Here’s a brief overview of the different types of staterooms:

• Interior staterooms : The most affordable option, ideal for sensitive sleepers who prefer quieter rooms away from activities. These rooms are perfect for unwinding after a long day of fun.
• Ocean View staterooms : Similar to Interior staterooms but with the added benefit of a window for a view of the ocean or the ship’s surroundings.
• Balcony staterooms : These rooms offer private outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy the fresh sea air and stunning views from the comfort of your own room.
• Suite staterooms : The most luxurious choice, suites are larger and often come with additional amenities and services, such as priority check-in and a personal concierge.

It’s important to keep in mind that as a solo traveler on a Carnival cruise, you will need to pay a supplement to have a double stateroom to yourself.

This supplement is often 100%, meaning you have no option but to pay for two people.

Despite this, you can still enjoy a variety of activities, entertainment, and dining options onboard, making your cruise experience memorable and enjoyable.

Will You Get Laid on a Carnival Cruise?

It’s possible to hook up on a Carnival cruise, but there’s no guarantee it will happen. Keep in mind that people can, and do, hook up with people they meet on cruises.

Carnival’s drink packages are popular, and the nightclubs often stay active long into the night.

However, it’s essential to stay safe and not engage in any behavior you wouldn’t normally do on land.

Going on a singles cruise geared towards singles in their 20s and 30s may increase your chances of meeting like-minded individuals since these cruises generally attract younger adults.

Plus, with 2000 to 5000+ passengers on board, you’ll likely come across several solo travelers to mingle with.

To improve your chances of meeting someone, consider the following tips:

• Attend events specifically designed for singles.
• Strike up conversations with new people in bars or restaurants.
• Dress appropriately for themed parties.
• Be open-minded and approachable.

While on the cruise, remember that crew members are generally off-limits. They’re typically young, international, and attractive, but hooking up with the crew is typically not allowed .

Lastly, focus on having fun and making new connections. Whether or not you end up hooking up during your Carnival cruise, the experience will still be memorable and enjoyable.

Does Tinder Work on a Carnival Cruise Ship?

Yes, Tinder can work on a Carnival Cruise Ship. However, it’s important to note that the app is location-based and requires an internet connection to function.

To use Tinder on the ship, you’ll need to purchase a Carnival Wi-Fi package. Keep in mind that the quality and availability of the internet connection may vary depending on your location and the ship’s itinerary.

As a Tinder user, you should be aware that certain cruise lines may have restrictions on which apps can be used on their Wi-Fi network.

While Tinder is an app for mature audiences, it might fall under such restrictions on some cruise lines. Royal Caribbean, for example, offers more flexibility with two packages: Surf and Surf + Stream.

On a singles cruise, you might want to consider participating in the organized activities and excursions designed specifically for singles who want to meet new people.

Carnival, as well as other cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line, organize singles cruises that include hosted meet-ups and activities for single travelers .

In summary, using Tinder on a Carnival Cruise Ship is possible as long as you have an internet connection.

Be prepared for potential app restrictions or network limitations and consider taking part in the available singles activities on board to maximize your chances of meeting new people.

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Embarking on a cruise vacation can be an exhilarating experience, but for singles seeking a memorable journey filled with excitement and the opportunity to forge new connections, choosing the right cruise line becomes paramount. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or venturing on your first solo adventure, the best cruise lines for singles understand the unique needs and desires of individual travelers. From vibrant social atmospheres and engaging activities to tailored itineraries and dedicated solo traveler programs, these cruise lines offer a remarkable blend of relaxation, adventure, and the chance to create lasting connections with like-minded individuals. Read on to discover the best cruise lines that cater to singles.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania has 14 staterooms designed specifically to cater to the needs of single travelers on four of their seven ships. The Regatta , being the pioneer, offers a cost-effective option for solo holidays. In addition to the dedicated single-occupancy staterooms, solo travelers can partake in various events and activities.

Highlights of the experience include afternoon tea, providing an opportunity for singles to meet and socialize. Onboard, there's a Monte Carlo-style Casino, a library, engaging talks by guest speakers, live performances, and high-quality concerts. During your free time, explore amenities such as spas, salons, fitness centers, pools, and restaurants for a well-rounded solo cruise experience.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival cruises have become known for their lively atmosphere, particularly appealing to singles aged 20 to 40. While there are no dedicated single cabins, Carnival Panorama stands out as an ideal choice for solo travelers seeking a vibrant holiday experience. The ship features a water park, trampoline park, Cloud 9 Spa, and an open-air recreation area. Staterooms and suites offer luxurious services, and singles can unwind in the Havana Bar & Pool area, complete with rain showers, hammock chairs, and patios.

Princess Cruises

If you appreciate elegance and class as a single traveler, Princess Cruises provides an excellent holiday option. Experience a singles-only night where you can connect with new people and even find dance partners. Exciting activities like tennis, yoga, and cooking classes are also available, with the Majestic Princess ship standing out for offering these facilities.

Highlights of this ship encompass the Lotus Spa, a fitness center, a casino, a sports and pool deck, and the SeaWalk. The lounges and theaters host a variety of shows, including the Watercolor Fantasy Show. Additionally, explore specialty restaurants and diners, such as a lobster and dim sum bar, to enhance your cruise experience.

Holland America Line

If you're seeking a cruise line that prioritizes singles activities, consider Holland America . Engage in exercise classes, wine tasting, cooking sessions, line dance classes, team trivia, and daily quizzes. Nieuw Statendam is one of the recommended ships for singles.

Highlights of this ship include pools, fitness centers, spas, cooking classes, and wine-tasting sessions, providing a variety of activities for singles. Nighttime entertainment options include exciting nightclubs like B.B. King's Blues Club, Rolling Stone Rock Room, and Lincoln Centre Stage. Explore diverse cuisines from around the world at the ship's diners to enhance your cruise experience.

Norwegian Cruises

For single and solo travelers, Norwegian Cruise Line stands out as a top choice. Specifically designed for solo occupants, the studio cabins provide comfortable accommodations. Additionally, singles in the Norwegian studios have exclusive access to the Studio Complex and Lounge, offering opportunities to socialize, have a drink, or watch TV. The latest addition to the fleet, the Encore , boasts exceptional onboard activities such as pools, aqua parks with waterslides, virtual reality games, a spa, and a fitness center.

Highlights of this cruise line extend to a diverse range of nighttime activities, featuring multiple bars, lounges, and live performances. Various dining options, including an alfresco steakhouse and a Japanese hibachi restaurant, cater to the preferences of single travelers. Facilities are thoughtfully designed to ensure an entertaining experience for solo cruisers.

When it comes to selecting the best cruise line for singles, various options cater to diverse preferences, offering unique experiences tailored to solo travelers. From the lively and fun-filled atmosphere of Carnival Cruise Line to the elegance and class of Princess Cruises , and the solo-friendly features of Norwegian Cruise Line , each choice provides a distinct flavor. For those seeking an exclusive and hassle-free booking experience, Cruisebound stands out as the go-to platform for booking cruises online and finding the best cruise deals.

The 5 best cruise lines for solo travelers

Editor's Note

Thinking of taking a cruise as a solo traveler? Here's the bad news: With many lines, you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a companion.

Most cruise ship cabins are designed for two, and the cruise rates you see advertised for these cabins are per person, based on double occupancy . That means the rates are only available to customers who will be sharing the cabin with a second paying passenger.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

If you want to occupy one of these cabins alone, you'll pay a premium that, in cruise world lingo, is known as the "single supplement." Often, that premium is 100%. In other words, even if you don't have a second person in your cabin, you'll be paying an extra fare as if you did.

Still, all is not lost if you're a singleton wanting to experience life at sea. Spurred by increasing demand, a growing number of cruise lines are adding cabins designed specifically for solo travelers (with pricing that, by definition, is based on single occupancy). Some lines routinely offer lower single supplement charges than others, or they reduce or waive single supplements during promotions.

Of course, it's not just a low price that makes for a good solo cruise. Just as important for many people traveling alone is the opportunity to meet other like-minded solo travelers through meet-and-greet receptions and organized group dining for solo cruisers. Some cruise lines do a better job with this than others.

Looking at all these criteria — price, cabin options and a welcoming environment — I've identified five lines going the extra mile for cruisers traveling alone. Here are my top picks for the best cruise lines for solo travelers.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Credit Norwegian for kicking off the trend of more solo cabins on cruise ships. In 2010, the big-ship line debuted an entire zone of small "studio" cabins for one — 128 in all — on its then-new, 4,100-passenger Norwegian Epic. It was such a hit that other lines began to follow.

Just 100 square feet but superbly designed to maximize storage space, the solo rooms on Norwegian Epic are clustered around an exclusive Studio Lounge. It has a bar and television area where solo travelers can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.

Norwegian has since added similar solo cabin areas with exclusive lounges to seven more new ships, including its two newest vessels, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima . Both ships have a 73-cabin solo complex that spreads across two decks.

The bigger Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Bliss all have an 82-cabin solo complex, while two older ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — have solo areas with 59 cabins.

Norwegian also offers four solo cabins on its Hawaii-based Pride of America.

Having sailed in one of Norwegian's cabins for one, I can confidently declare them among the coolest solo digs at sea. I particularly love the futuristic "Jetsons"-like design and the multicolored mood lighting.

One big caveat: They're all inside cabins without an ocean view, although most have a window that looks out onto a corridor. On Norwegian Bliss, the solo cabins have a virtual porthole that offers a live view of the outside world via an LED screen.

Related: Why a windowless inside cabin isn't so bad

A bigger caveat, perhaps, is that these solo cabins have become so popular they often sell out far in advance, and at prices that aren't much better than booking a cabin for two.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has taken a page from Norwegian's playbook in recent years by adding solo cabins to both new and older ship classes . The line's Quantum-class vessels, which began debuting in 2014, offer up to 28 of these dedicated studio cabins, which measure from 101 to 119 square feet.

Unlike Norwegian's solo digs, some cabins are ocean-view rooms with balconies. Others have a virtual balcony that, at first glance, looks like a veranda but is really just a digital screen projecting a real-time view of the outside. (It sounds corny, but it works.)

Other Royal Caribbean ships with solo cabins include some of the line's giant Oasis-class vessels, including Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas . Several of Royal Caribbean's older Voyager-class and Radiance-class vessels also have solo cabins. But some of these ships have just two or three.

While the solo cabins on Royal Caribbean ships don't come with a dedicated solo lounge, solo travelers will find Royal Caribbean-hosted meetups for solo travelers on the vessels, which is a great way for single travelers to find others in the same boat, so to speak. There's also quite a bar scene on Royal Caribbean ships, with rows of bar seats in many bars that are a great place to find other solo travelers.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean ships are particularly known for their wide range of onboard activities, from big-production shows to rock-climbing walls and surfing pools, that you can enjoy just fine as a solo traveler.

Silversea Cruises

Unlike Norwegian and Royal Caribbean, Silversea hasn't created a specific cabin category for solo travelers. But the luxury line is known for catering to them with single supplements of just 10% to 25% on select sailings. Occasionally, during short-term promotions, the line even will waive the single supplement entirely.

Silversea also hosts welcome receptions for solo travelers at the start of every voyage to kick off the mingling process.

Operating relatively small, intimate vessels that carry just a few hundred passengers, Silversea is known for drawing a social crowd that likes to mix and mingle, particularly at dinnertime — a boon for people like me who don't like to eat alone.

Head to the main lounge just before dinner on a Silversea ship, and there's a good chance you'll be pulled into a conversation with a group of complete strangers who will extend a dinner invitation. This has happened to me so many times on Silversea ships that I almost count on it.

Related: 6 reasons you'll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

On Silversea's expedition sailings, you can also share meals with ship naturalists and expedition guides who join passengers in public dining venues. From my experience, they are always amenable to a friendly dining companion and some good conversation.

Virgin Voyages

Of course, there's always the rebellious startup line Virgin Voyages , backed by Richard Branson's Virgin Group, which draws fun-loving folks (but not just millennials ). It's shaping up to be a leader in the solo cruise market, judging from my experience when I sailed on its first ship, Scarlet Lady .

The vessel boasts 46 cabins specifically designed for lone travelers — as do its newer sisters, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady . That's a big number for a ship with just 1,330 cabins overall. We haven't yet sailed in one of their solo rooms, but based on what we saw when we toured Scarlet Lady, they might just become the coolest digs-for-one around.

The solo accommodations on Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady include 40 windowless, 105-square-foot Solo Insider rooms on each vessel that are sleek and stylish with full-size beds, large flat-screen televisions, curvy vanities and high-design bathrooms. Six similar-looking Solo Sea View cabins on each vessel measure about 130 square feet and offer windows.

Note that the solo cabins with windows are at the front of the ships, facing forward. While that's a spectacular location for sightseeing, seasoned cruisers know that cabins in this location can be bumpy in rough seas. I love a little movement when I cruise (how else do you know you're at sea?), but if you don't, consider yourself warned.

Meanwhile, for solos, you'll find that Virgin's hopping bar scene — and adult-focused atmosphere — is perfect for solos looking to meet up with other single travelers. With a ban on children under 18, you won't find families with kids on this line. It's all about solo travelers, couples and friend groups looking to have a good time and engage with their shipmates on board.

Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any ship

Solo travelers looking for an upscale river cruise can often find a deal from Tauck, a high-end tour company with a European cruise division. It markets more than half a dozen river vessels.

Tauck often eliminates its single supplement completely on its least-expensive category of cabins (Category 1) and reduces single supplements for other cabin categories (with savings up to $1,000 in select categories).

On board, Tauck directors and cruise directors take special care of solo travelers, and communal tables at mealtime make it easy to meet other travelers.

Cruisers traveling alone can seek out others at the bar (no worries about the bar tab — drinks are included) or escape to a quiet sun deck spot with a book when they're tired of socializing. Daily shore excursions and tours are included, so you'll always have a group ready to explore with you on land.

River cruising in general is ideal for solo travelers, and other river lines also waive or significantly lower single supplement charges. Avalon Waterways waives its single supplement charge for some cabins on every cruise departure in Europe, and AmaWaterways charges a single supplement of just 50% for solo travelers booking non-suite cabins. It also has four ships in Europe that each have two dedicated solo cabins that carry no single supplement.

Bottom line

As someone who often cruises alone when writing about ships, I've found that smaller ships often are better for mixing and mingling than bigger ships .

On small ships, you'll see the same people again and again — on tours, in lounges, around the pool and so forth; this increases the odds you'll strike up a conversation and soon become fast friends. On big ships with thousands of passengers, you might go days without seeing the same person twice.

The lines that operate small ships are also more prone to offering discounts for solo travelers, which results in a higher percentage of individual cruisers onboard. That said, for the most part, the lines operating bigger ships are offering the most dedicated solo cabins. They also offer more onboard activities, from Broadway shows to rock-climbing walls, that you don't need companions to enjoy.

Not that you should worry too much about making friends at sea. Cruisers, in general, are social people. In fact, many passengers cruise specifically to meet others. I can't tell you how many times I've been sitting alone in a corner of a cruise ship lounge, minding my own business, when another passenger (or two or five) stopped by and struck up a conversation.

Whether you choose one of our top cruise lines for solo travelers or another line that suits your fancy, you're bound to have a good time with as much or as little alone time as you desire.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Cruise Advice

9 Best Cruise Lines For Single Cruisers

Doug Parker

• August 18, 2020

Once an industry that was thought to be reserved for newlyweds, budget-conscious families and retirees, cruising is emerging as a preferred form of travel for single cruisers of all ages. 

After all, a ship that is three football fields long, with all the entertainment, food and drinks you could want, and sailing to one exotic destination after another would seem to be a great way to meet new people, right?

On This Page 

• Norwegian Cruise Line  
• Royal Caribbean  
• Carnival Cruise Line  
• Virgin Voyages  
• MSC Cruises
• Holland America Line  
• Cunard Line  
• Viking River Cruises  
• UnCruise Adventures

You might be asking yourself are cruises good for singles? Or you might be anxious to test the waters. But before you jump right into the maritime meat market, it is important to realize that some cruise lines do the “single thing” better than others.

So, unless you’re comfortable on a cruise where you might be sifting your way through armies of Disney characters, or not being able to get a seat on bingo night, check out a few of our favorite cruise lines for single travelers.

Depending on your age and int erests, it’s important you find the right cruise line when you’re single and ready to mingle.

Below are some of the best singles cruise lines (in no particular order).

1. Norwegian Cruise Line

If you are looking for a slightly younger and more nightlife-centric group of singles, you might want to consider Norwegian. 

With a lower median age than most cruise lines, there is a level of energy that is more akin to what most would consider a singles party environment.

The sleek Studio staterooms attract single and solo cruisers like moths to a flame. Norwegian isn’t the first to offer single occupancy cabins, but they are the first to feature ultra-modern design and mood lighting, and offer single guests their own exclusive lounge.

READ MORE: 5 Things To Love About NCL

On most sailings, Norwegian taps a member of the entertainment staff to serve as a “solo cruise coordinator.”  Norwegian also has many venues that help keep the party going. 

Whether it’s Spice H2O, the Mojito Bar or O’Sheehan’s Pub for some cocktails and conversation, Norwegian knows how to take care of their single and solo cruisers.

2. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is another line with a number of solo cabins on many of their ships, and since they are also a value-driven cruise line, this makes them a great option for any single cruisers.

The Royal Caribbean experience offers a nearly endless number of activities to help break the ice.

From surf simulators to a skydiving experience there are plenty of options for those adventurous souls, so if you’re lucky to meet your match you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from to stay active, and maybe even get a little competitive. 

READ MORE: Guide to Royal Caribbean Solo and Studio Cabins

The world-famous Royal Promenade  is something of a downtown city center and features several venues that allow for some good people watching. 

Whether you are looking to find a fellow bar hopper or have a night on the town with someone you met earlier in the sailing, the Royal Promenade is the perfect place to spend an evening before the nightclub gets going. 

We recommend checking out The British Pub, Boleros, or The Schooner Bar if you are looking to bump into fellow single cruisers. 

3. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival’s well-deserved reputation as the “Fun Ships” makes them an excellent choice for younger singles looking to meet the same.

While you’ll typically find fewer solo singles on Carnival Cruise Line than Norwegian Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean (though there will undoubtedly be some), you’ll encounter lots of groups of single, unattached, friends traveling together, especially during the spring break season and on Carnival’s shorter three-night cruises.

READ MORE: First Time Guide To Carnival Cruise Line

There’s always something fun happening on Carnival, and the party goes later into the night than some other lines, so if you meet someone on board you won’t run out of things to do.

We’re not sure who first said “If this ship’s a rocking, don’t come a-knocking,” but they were probably onboard Carnival when they coined the phrase.

4. Virgin Voyages

This one’s a bit speculative on our part, since as of press time, Virgin Voyages has yet to sail a ship, but from what we’ve seen of this cruise line created by Richard Branson’s legendary Virgin brand, singles will feel right at home.

The vibe aboard Virgin’s Scarlet Lady promises to be sleek and sexy, and the focus on shorter four and five-night cruises is going to attract sophisticated younger cruisers.

Virgin’s ships are limited to those 18 years and older, so there will be no kids running on the pool deck or spoiling the party; alcohol is included and free-flowing helping to lower inhibitions; the entertainment will break the cruise ship mold of Vegas-style productions and Broadway shows offering more music; and the Scarlet Party likely will be the wildest, most uninhibited party sailors have ever seen.

5. MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises in Europe attract a younger, contemporary crowd, including lots of singles. If you’re looking to meet a handsome Italian stallion or a sexy Spanish Mamacita, there’s a good chance you’ll find them aboard a Mediterranean cruise on MSC.

READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About MSC Cruises

MSC often boards passengers at several ports during a seven-night cruise in Europe, so there tends to be a bigger mix of passengers aboard at any given time, increasing your odds of meeting someone of interest.

And the vibe onboard is very much European, including discos that keep going late into the night, so you might literally be able to party until dawn.

6. Holland America Line

For slightly older singles, check into Holland America Line. On these ships, you’ll get an elevated level of food and overall service, and meet mature, eligible solo travelers who seek out the finer things in life.

While it might be a little more on the pricier side, the quality is off the charts and the value is still there.

READ MORE: First Time Holland America Cruise Guide

For instance, Holland America offers a limited number of solo cabins on their newer ships, and they are larger than Norwegian’s staterooms, which are between 130-170 square feet; they also all come with ocean view windows.

Single cruises on Holland America Line tend to be divorcees or widowers. While they are a lively and vibrant group, the action does not go much past midnight.

Regardless of how long the party lasts, Holland America Line does a great job of making sure the single’s cruise experience is top-notch.

7. Cunard Line

While a Cunard Cruise is also a wonderful option for many single cruisers, we have to establish that it is a significantly different experience than the previous lines we’ve profiled.

Cunard ships, specifically the Queen Mary II, tend to embark on longer itineraries, including many ocean crossings and thus attract an older, more sophisticated clientele.

There will be way more sea days than port days, so guests spend more time on the ship, creating an environment where like-minded singles are more likely to find each other.

READ MORE: 5 Things To Know Cruising Solo on Cunard  

Cunard also employs dance hosts, elderly gentlemen at the ready to accompany the many older single women, usually widows, who sail on board, on the ballroom dance floors found on each ship. There’s likely no better cruise choice for an older, single woman than Cunard.

Another important thing to keep in mind about Cunard is that dress codes throughout the ship are strictly enforced. The minute you step onto the ship it is clear that the atmosphere on Cunard is significantly more formal than that of most mass-market cruise lines. 

While it may be way fancier, there is still plenty of opportunities to find other singles.  

8. Viking Cruises

Viking River Cruises might seem like an atypical choice for a single traveler, but hear us out. River cruises tend to attract adventurous and independent mature travelers, so it stands to reason that there would be some adventurous and independent singles in the mix.

Now, Viking river ships are small, topping out at just under 200 passengers, so there’s not going to be a huge meat market on board, but chances are your cruise will have a handful of like-minded single travelers looking to meet new people on board.

And the nature of a river cruise, which lends itself to independent exploration in cities and towns along the banks of the river, means there will likely be more opportunities to venture ashore to dine, drink and explore, than a typical ocean-going cruise.

As with most cruises, shorter sailings (typically seven or eight nights) will attract slightly younger passengers, while 10-14 night and longer cruises will see older travelers onboard, so choose wisely.

9. UnCruise Adventures

Finally, we have UnCruise Adventures, a small and unique cruise line that caters to the true adventures at heart. The line offers itineraries to some amazing and remote places that most major cruise lines aren’t able to visit.

Although the pricing for a trip could a little higher than what most major cruise lines offer, Uncruise Adventures doesn’t charge solo cruisers for double occupancy.

Another plus is that their ships are significantly smaller than your traditional cruise ships, making it easier to connect with other singles.

Activities are included in the cruise fare so the line also takes the guesswork out of trying to figure out what to do.

Making UnCruise Adventures a great option for those who are adventurous at heart and are looking to connect with someone with similar interests.  

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Best Cruise Ships For Singles With Extra Fun

I f you’re a solo traveler and want a more freestyle cruising you have to go for some more adult friendly cruises. There are many cruise lines out there offering versatile amenities and fun but the majority of them are family focus.

In fact most of the cruises lack solo cabins, so you have to pay extra to reserve a room. But at the same time several cruises offer a plethora of perks and amenities specifically for solo travelers or singles. Like the Royal Caribbean supports all the solo travelers and gives double points for each night (to earn loyalty status).

In this article I have shared a list of all the cruise lines that are suitable for singles or solo travelers, so stay stick with this guide.

7 Best Cruises For Singles

1- royal caribbean.

When it comes to solo travel aboard a cruise ship, Royal Caribbean stands out as an excellent choice, offering a vibrant and enriching experience for solo travelers. Among the fleet, the “Anthem of the Seas” is particularly noteworthy for catering to the needs and preferences of those embarking on a solo adventure.

Onboard the “Anthem of the Seas,” solo travelers are greeted with an array of dedicated features designed to enhance their journey. The staterooms for solo cruisers are thoughtfully designed, providing comfort and privacy. The innovative use of space ensures that solo travelers can enjoy a cozy and welcoming environment tailored just for them

From trying out the thrilling activities at SeaPlex to savoring gourmet cuisine at one of the specialty restaurants, solo travelers aboard the “Anthem of the Seas” can indulge in a truly immersive and enjoyable journey.

Beside this many other ships in the fleet offer solo cabins for singles, these ships include Quantum of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Anthem of the Seas. You can further check the Royal Caribbean latest ships , on cruiseshipmania.

2- Norwegian Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line is a standout choice for solo travelers, offering a diverse and enriching experience throughout its fleet.

The “Norwegian Epic” and “Norwegian Encore” emerge as particularly favorable options for solo adventurers. These ships boast exclusive Studio staterooms designed specifically for solo cruisers.

What sets them apart is the access to the Studio Lounge, creating a sense of community among solo travelers. The accommodations are not only functional but also stylish, striking the right balance between comfort and sophistication.

Moreover, Norwegian Cruise Line creates a vibrant and entertaining environment for solo travelers. From captivating performances to engaging activities, the cruise line ensures that solo adventurers have ample opportunities to socialize and make new connections.

3- Holland America Cruises

Holland America Cruises is renowned for providing elegant and enriching cruise experiences, where comfort seamlessly intertwines with sophistication. Among the notable fleet, the “Nieuw Statendam” stands out as an exceptional choice for discerning travelers.

The “Nieuw Statendam” is distinguished by its commitment to providing spacious and stylish accommodations. The staterooms are designed to offer both comfort and a touch of luxury, ensuring passengers experience a restful and indulgent stay on board.

What sets the “Nieuw Statendam” apart is not only its luxurious offerings but also its immersive onboard activities. Cultural experiences and entertainment options contribute to a well-rounded and enjoyable journey, ensuring that passengers have a memorable and enriching cruise experience.

Cunard, renowned for its luxurious ocean travel, presents an exceptional experience for singles seeking refined solo voyages. Among Cunard’s impressive fleet, the “Queen Elizabeth” stands out as an ideal choice for solo travelers.

The ship offers dedicated staterooms for single occupants, providing a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Solo passengers on the “Queen Elizabeth” enjoy exclusive access to the Single Stateroom Lounge, fostering a sense of community and facilitating connections with fellow travelers.

The ship’s sophisticated ambiance, exquisite dining options, and diverse entertainment contribute to a fulfilling solo cruise experience. Cunard’s commitment to impeccable service and attention to detail make the “Queen Elizabeth” a premier choice for singles seeking a luxurious and enriching journey at sea.

5- Silversea

Silversea, synonymous with ultra-luxury cruising, offers an intimate and indulgent experience for solo travelers.

Among its fleet, the “Silver Spirit” stands out as an excellent choice for singles. This ship features carefully designed solo accommodations, providing a harmonious blend of comfort and sophistication. The Silver Spirit’s single suites offer a spacious and elegant retreat, ensuring solo travelers experience the epitome of luxury.

The ship’s intimate size fosters a social atmosphere, allowing singles to easily connect with fellow passengers. Silversea’s commitment to personalized service, gourmet dining, and exclusive onboard experiences further enhances the solo cruise journey.

For those seeking a refined and immersive solo travel experience, the “Silver Spirit” emerges as a top pick within the Silversea fleet.

6- Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line, known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, offers fantastic options for solo travelers seeking a fun-filled cruise experience. Among Carnival’s fleet, the “Carnival Horizon” and “Carnival Mardi Gras” stand out as ideal choices for singles.

These ships feature diverse entertainment options, lively nightlife, and a variety of social spaces, creating a dynamic environment for solo passengers to mingle and connect.

The RedFrog Pub, SkyBox Sports Bar, and themed parties contribute to the energetic ambiance. Carnival’s “Choose Fun” philosophy extends to solo travelers with stateroom options designed for single occupancy, providing comfort and affordability.

With an array of activities, vibrant social scenes, and budget-friendly options, the “Carnival Horizon” and “Carnival Mardi Gras” cater to singles seeking an enjoyable and socially engaging cruise adventure.

7- Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises, synonymous with modern luxury, presents an extraordinary cruise experience, and the “Celebrity Edge” and “Celebrity Apex” exemplify the pinnacle of this commitment. These ships are ideal for discerning travelers seeking unparalleled sophistication.

The “Celebrity Edge” features innovative design, including Infinite Verandas and the Magic Carpet, providing breathtaking views and unique onboard spaces.

Similarly, the “Celebrity Apex” continues this trend, offering revolutionary accommodations and unrivaled culinary experiences. Both ships showcase the exquisite Eden, a multi-level venue seamlessly blending nature and design.

The attention to detail, top-notch service, and diverse onboard activities make the “Celebrity Edge” and “Celebrity Apex” stand out, offering an exceptional and luxurious cruising experience for those who appreciate modern elegance at sea.

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7 of the best solo cruise lines for single passengers

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Cruises are a well-trodden holiday option, offering the opportunity to explore various parts of the world while enjoying the comfort of a hotel on the seas.

These trips are popular with both families and couples, but they can be just as rewarding and enjoyable for solo travellers, giving you as much flexibility as you want along with opportunities to meet like-minded holidaymakers and see some of the world’s finest tourist destinations .

Daily activities will keep you entertained while onboard, while organised excursions or solo trips let you see a magnificent range of towns and cities at your leisure. Solo-specific events mean that meeting other travellers is as easy as sitting down to dinner, while you’ll have a comfortable solo cabin to come back to at the end of each day. Choose the right cruise and you’ll get all of this while avoiding the common ‘singles surcharge’.

If you’ve got the itch to book, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best cruise liners for single passengers below.

Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel operates river cruises around the world, with destinations as far as Egypt and Vietnam . Nevertheless, the focus is on European river cruises , with plenty of packages to the Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Douro and Danube on offer. Packages include return flights, airport transfers and all meals onboard, with an extensive range of excursions and activities including guided tours and on-board folk music shows.

Read more on cruise travel :

• The best Northern Lights cruises
• The best river cruises around the world
• The best winter cruise holidays to book

European river cruises are the only option that Riviera offers for solo travellers, with seven routes that cover the continent’s main rivers. Prices include all the same features as a standard booking – such as excursions, onboard meals and Wi-Fi – but with spacious single occupancy cabins and welcome dinners to help you meet people. Solo bookings also include the ‘superior’ drinks package, which gives guests an extensive selection of alcoholic drinks available both at lunch and between 6pm and midnight. The Rhine and Moselle package is their most affordable, starting in Cologne and taking you to beautiful towns like Koblenz and Rudesheim.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages offers adult-only cruises packed with a huge range of activities, from morning yoga classes to evening cabaret. There are plenty of solo cabins – their inaugural ship, Scarlet Lady, has 46 – and itineraries include solo meet-ups, activities and excursions with plenty of opportunities to meet other single travellers.

Packages include food, drink and activities as standard. With only four ships in the fleet, your choice of destination is slightly more limited, though you can still visit picturesque locations in Europe, the Caribbean , parts of Southern Asia and Australia. The Southeastern Caribbean Isles package will take you on a roundtrip from Puerto Rico, stopping in Guadeloupe, Barbados, St Lucia and Antigua.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian was the first cruise company to build ships with cabins and lounge areas that were specifically for solo travellers, and there are now around 1,000 solo cabins across its ships. Solo travellers can choose from Oceanview rooms, inside rooms, rooms with a balcony and even studios, and they will have access to the Solo Lounge – a private lounge only for guests travelling alone – where various events and happy hours are held.

Normal packages include food and onboard activities, though several bookings let you choose to add extras – from shore excursions to speciality meals or a free bar – for a small added fee. Norwegian sail across a wide range of destinations too, from the British Isles and the Mediterranean to Hawaii, Alaska and the Caribbean.

Tauck claims to have specialised in solo travel for over 90 years, and today this translates to special solo savings and no single supplement on European river cruises. Travellers looking to see the continent ‘solo style’ can benefit from savings of up to £750, and will enjoy more stylish, contemporary ships with fewer guests for an overall more luxurious experience. Trips cover Europe’s main waterways, and prices include all food, drink, activities and shore tours. Choose the Yuletide package between Brussels and Amsterdam for a festive experience at some of the best Christmas markets – and prettiest waterways – on the continent.

Ambassador Cruise Line

Ambassador is a new cruise line where trips begin in cities around the UK , including Liverpool , Belfast, Dundee and Bristol. Both Ambience and Ambition have 89 dedicated cabins set aside for solo travellers, available “at a special single supplement against the equivalent twin fare based on selected single cabin categories”. The operator journeys to a vast range of destinations considering there are only two ships in its fleet, with voyages going as far as Singapore , Brazil and New Zealand.

Ambassador’s cruises contain an extensive programme of activities for solo passengers, including a ‘Welcome Get Together’ and guided tours together with other solo travellers. Other onboard entertainment ranges from West End-style shows to comedy nights, with plenty of opportunities to meet others. If cruising during winter, visit Norway to see wondrous fjords and (possibly) the aurora borealis, with the Land of the Northern Lights package.

Oceania has made considerable investment in providing options for solo travellers, with its newest ship, Vista, containing six 270-square-foot solo cabins that include balconies, premium lounge access and a welcome bottle of champagne. It has fitted its older ships with 14 ‘Solo Staterooms’, all of which offer magnificent sea views.

Oceania voyages make it easy to meet like-minded travellers with solo meet-and-greet events, large mixed dining tables, mixed shore excursions and single-traveller activities such as art classes. Destinations range from the Mediterranean and Scandinavia to South Africa and the tropics, meaning solo travellers have opportunities to see a large portion of the world alone. Book the 14-day  Miami to Tenerife cruise  to experience Mediterranean charm and Caribbean beauty in late March. 

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean say that they do not “have specific pricing for single occupancy” cabins, but that they do offer single cabins on some of their ships, including Brilliance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas. These cruises “can be reserved by someone cruising alone without the usual single supplement fee”, and they cover an extensive range of destinations, from Europe to the Caribbean and Singapore to Australia.

Passengers can reserve inside studio staterooms, virtual balcony staterooms and super studio ocean view stateroom with balconies, giving them between 101 and 199 square feet of space. Everything else will be the same as usual, meaning you can enjoy the same benefits as every other guests without paying a premium. If departing from the UK, the only tours available take you around Europe; the most extensive is the Mediterranean Cities package, covering Seville, Sardinia, Rome , Lisbon and more.

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Best Cruises for Single Seniors in 2024

The Senior List is compensated when you click on the provider links listed on this page. This compensation does not impact our ratings or reviews. Click here to learn more about our editorial review process and click here to learn more about how we are compensated.

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What Are Singles Cruises for Seniors?

If you’re a senior who enjoys solo travel and meeting new people, you might want to book a singles cruise. These adventures can be a great way for older adults to enjoy traveling alone at surprisingly affordable prices. Beyond singles cruises, you can also look into general cruise lines that cater to the older set.

Pro Tip: To learn more about my favorite cruises, read my guide to the best cruises for seniors .

The Advantages of Singles Cruises for Seniors

Singles cruises for seniors offer many benefits, such as discounted room prices, wine tasting, and onboard entertainment –– not to mention plenty of opportunities to meet other singles.

Less planning

Since most singles cruises are all-inclusive, you don’t have to worry about last-minute itinerary planning. Most singles cruises provide a day-by-day itinerary with information on daily activities, events, and excursions. For those who want an adventurous time without having to plan, a cruise is a great option. Personally, planning travel makes me anxious, so I love handing the process over to the professionals.

Meeting new people

A singles cruise is designed to cater to people of all ages who are looking to meet new people. If you’re recently divorced or looking for a new relationship, a singles cruise offers an opportunity to meet others in a similar position. These cruises will often have programs like speed dating and dances to help facilitate interactions. Plus, some cruises cater to singles specifically, giving you a discount or “single supplement.”

Courses and events

Singles cruises offer plenty of great activities, such as wine tastings, chef-prepared meals, dancing, pool parties, concerts, and group exercises. All of this helps make it easier to meet new people.

• Viking Ocean Cruises : Best Overall Value
• Singles Travel International : Made for Singles
• Silversea : Luxurious and All-Inclusive
• Tauck World Discovery : Great Expeditions
• Holland America Line : 35-Day Trips
• Solos Holidays : Social Activities
• Cunard : Great Onboard Entertainment
• Riviera River Cruises : Great for Solo Travelers
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises : Discounts Available

1. Viking Ocean Cruises - Best Overall Value

What we like most:.

• Wide range of trips
• Luxurious suites
• Excellent customer service
• Risk-free guarantee

Cost: $799+ per person

Viking offers river, ocean, and expedition voyages on all seven continents. I could choose from a variety of cruise destinations, including Scandinavia, Northern Europe, Asia, and Australia. As the world’s leading small-ship cruise line, Viking Ocean Cruises has a fleet of new, state-of-the-art ocean ships, ranging from Viking Star to Viking Saturn. Each ocean ship can carry up to 930 adult guests for an intimate experience and longer overnight stays at ports. With so many adults on a boat, it was easy for me to meet people, especially at meal times.

To book a cruise, I simply visited the Viking website and selected the region, departure date, and duration of my stay. If you’re looking to travel to Scandinavia and Northern Europe for a duration of 12 days, you can choose your sail date and include a promo code to get the best deals. You can also select the number of guests and specify the type of stateroom or suite you would like to book.

Viking Ocean Cruises offers a risk-free guarantee for guests, allowing you to change your cruise date up to 14 days before your departure. Viking will also waive any change fees. Other features of this cruise include spacious veranda staterooms and suites. In addition to a variety of destinations, Viking Ocean Cruises offers special savings on both airfare and cruise costs.

FYI: Cruises aren’t the only way to meet that special someone. Consider trying one of the best dating websites for seniors .

2. Singles Travel International - Made for Singles

• Made specifically for singles
• Worldwide destinations
• Meet-and-greets onboard
• Online community

Cost: $7,173 average, but ranges from $2,398 to $14,779

With affordable (comparatively speaking) cruises starting at $2,398 per person, Singles Travel International is a tour agency that offers fun cruise destination trips for single seniors over the age of 50. With several destination options ranging from Antarctica, Africa, and South America, seniors can enjoy a fun solo getaway at affordable prices.

With over 28 years in business, Singles Travel International offers great savings on single supplements, free membership, and fun singles cruise meet-and-greets and cocktail hours. Other benefits include an option to find a travel companion and ongoing promotions and discounts.  For example, when I was booking my trip, I could’ve saved thousands by getting a premium membership. This is a good option if you think you want to take cruises more regularly.

Plus, when I signed up for a free membership, I got a $50 discount on my first vacation and free access to its online community for senior singles over the age of 50.

3. Silversea - Luxurious and All-Inclusive

• Made specifically for seniors
• Generous all-inclusive options
• Onboard spas and fitness centers
• Gourmet dining

Cost: $3,600+ per person

If you’re looking to pamper yourself with a luxury cruise, Silversea provides amazing shore excursions and all-inclusive service covering 900 destinations. Although pricing is on the high side, you can still find plenty of great deals on both airfare and transfers. With Silversea, you can travel and explore new destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Asia, and Alaska –– all while enjoying the views from your luxury oceanview suite.

Booking as a solo traveler, I received a 25 percent single supplement on some voyages, which means a 25 percent discount. Not every cruise line offers this discount, as each room can support two people, typically.

You can choose from all-inclusive cruises or special Silversea Expeditions luxury cruises if you’re looking to travel to remote regions. Some of the benefits of choosing Silversea include complimentary beverages, gourmet dining, shore excursions, and educational lectures on the places you’re visiting. As someone who loves to learn, I found this trip both educational and fun, not to mention delicious.

With Silversea’s all-inclusive offerings, you’ll also enjoy personalized services with butler service for all its suites. Additionally, you’ll have access to a luxurious spa and fitness center, along with a beauty salon and acupuncture services for older adults with arthritis or back pain. It was lovely to have a spa to come home to after a long day exploring!

4. Tauck World Discovery - Great Expeditions

• Extensive guided land tours
• River and ocean cruises
• Fine dining
• Panoramic sun decks

Cost: $3,990+ per person

Looking for a solo getaway? Tauck World Discovery offers solo cruise adventures for older adults. Consider booking a solo trip on one of its European River Cruises, with prices starting at $4,390 per person for eight- to 25-day tours. In addition to river and small-ship cruises, Tauck offers guided land tours in destinations like Africa, Canada, Israel and Jordan, and Latin America.

We recommend solo travelers book one of the European River Cruises. For example, I was interested in the longest, Grand European Cruise, a 25-day cruise that hits Amsterdam, Budapest, Vienna, Nuremberg, Regensburg, and Koln. It starts at $13,990. I like this cruise because it will allow me to see nine European countries and stay three nights in Bucharest. Altogether, I am going to see these countries:

• Netherlands

Other features and benefits of booking a cruise through Tauck is that you’ll enjoy unlimited complimentary beverages, fine dining, and amenities such as a fitness center, spa, and sun deck featuring panoramic views of the river. For the European River Cruises, some of the destinations include the Danube, Douro, and Rhone rivers.

5. Holland America Line - 35-Day Trips

• Trips up to 133 days long
• Helpful smartphone app
• Onboard casinos
• Wine tastings

Cost: $499+ per person

With 149 years in business, Holland America Line offers 19 cruise destinations with over 473 ports. If you’re looking for an affordable cruise option, I recommend traveling with Holland America Line. Its Worry-Free Promise program gives guests the chance to change their cruise plans or cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure if you or a travel party tests positive for COVID-19.

Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 classic ships with destinations and ports in Alaska, Europe, the Panama Canal, Asia, and more. You can choose from seven- to 133-day cruise trips, depending on your destination and travel needs. The longest cruise goes from pole to pole, leaving and departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. If you’re a single senior, you’ll love the amenities the cruise ship offers, such as classical cruise ship music, theatrical shows, concerts, and other live entertainment.

Some of the additional features of this cruise line include spacious suites and staterooms, along with unique dining options and a casino. You can also use its free mobile-friendly app to personalize your cruise experience and browse your planned activities for the day. Depending on the cruise ship you choose, you can also participate in wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.

Did You Know: Before you head for the sea, be sure to have your travel insurance in order.

6. Solos Holidays - Social Activities

• Caters to solo travelers
• Great onboard entertainment
• Spacious rooms
• Ample social activities

Cost: $261+ per person

Solos Holidays caters to solo travelers who enjoy going to exciting destinations while meeting new people. Based in London, this company focuses on “singles holidays” and offers a wide selection of destinations across the globe. Some of the cruise destinations include Europe, Australia, Asia, and Africa.

I recommend going on A Taste of the Fjords. I departed from London and spent seven nights in Norway (prices start at $1,420 per person). On the ship, dining and entertainment options were plentiful, and the destinations — Bergen, Flam, and Stavanger —  were beautiful and picturesque. Plus, as a single, it was nice being with a group of eight and a tour leader, as I didn’t feel lonely. This is one of the more affordable cruise options, which is always appreciated.

7. Cunard - Great Onboard Entertainment

• Low starting prices
• Orchestra performances
• Onboard libraries and gyms
• Planetarium shows

Cost: $699+ per person

Cunard provides luxury cruise services across the globe. In fact, in the past, it has had esteemed guests like Elizabeth Taylor and Charlie Chaplain onboard its ships. Depending on the type of vacation and travel experience you’re looking for, you can anticipate spending around $699 per person for an English cruise to up to $2,199 per person for a Caribbean cruise. This is incredibly affordable, as cruises can cost tens of thousands of dollars, which is not in my budget. Here are the prices I saw when I looked in October 2023:

When you book a cruise with Cunard, you’ll enjoy amenities such as afternoon tea, live orchestra performances, and events moderated by prolific speakers. In addition to spacious open decks and Broadway-style shows, seniors will enjoy a packed itinerary of events and activities.

Other features include twice-daily turndown services, concierge services, personal butlers, great dining options, and complimentary room service. Guests can also enjoy group dance classes, planetarium shows, and access to the library and gym facilities.

We recommend choosing one of its seven-day transatlantic cruises onboard its Queen Mary 2. The best part is you’ll have access to live performances from the Royal Shakespeare Company, along with various accommodations to make your stay enjoyable. Cruises start at $849 per person for a Christmas 2023 voyage.

8. Riviera River Cruises - Great for Solo Travelers

• Luxurious amenities
• Niche destinations
• Flexible trips

Cost: $899+ per month

Riviera River Cruises offers several river cruises in Europe and other destinations around the world. Solo travelers can expect to pay around $899 to $5,479 for longer-duration trips.

If you enjoy solo traveling without sharing a room, then we’d recommend the Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg River Cruise for Solo Travelers. This eight-day cruise starts at $2,449 per person and features eight guided tours, a live classical quartet recital, daily meals, and five-star services. For this particular cruise, you’ll embark in Cologne and visit destinations like the Rhine Gorge and the historic Mainz port. Plus, there are departures aimed at solo travelers specifically, which start at $2,749 per person. Unfortunately, there’s no single supplement, but there are also no additional fees; I paid the listed price, which was a welcome departure from other cruise lines and their many hidden fees.

When you choose Riviera River Cruises, you’ll enjoy amenities and features like daily morning and afternoon tea and coffee, along with full daily meals, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the option to extend your cruise. Other benefits include access to an expert cruise director and concierge services to help make for an enjoyable stay.

Pro Tip: To start planning your next trip, be sure to check out my rundown of the best travel destinations for seniors .

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Discounts Available

• Over 450 ports
• Great discounts
• Spacious accommodations
• Tours up to 21 days in length

Cost: $6,074+ per person

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers all-inclusive luxury travel around the world, with over 450 ports of call. Each ship can carry up to 750 guests, with destinations in Africa, Arabia, Alaska, Asia, and the Mediterranean. The average price with the single supplement ranges from $6,074 per person from Cape Town to Rio De Janeiro to as high as $12,562 for an 18-day cruise from Sydney to Singapore.

Not every cruise line offers discounted prices for singles, so although these prices are on the higher side, they’re a good option for singles who want a more luxurious experience and have the funds for it.

Some of the benefits of choosing a cruise from Regent Seven Seas Cruises include all-inclusive fares, free open bars, and unlimited beverages, along with free access to specialty restaurants. You’ll also receive free unlimited internet and up to a 50 percent discount for a reduced single supplement for select suite categories.

Bottom Line

If you’re single and want to meet new people, a cruise can be a great way to step out of your comfort zone. Many cruises cater to solo travelers and single seniors, providing ample opportunities to participate in mixers, galas, and other activities aboard a ship. Many cruise lines will often offer great discounts for those who book one-passenger trips, so be on the lookout for those deals throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. There are many singles cruises for seniors to book throughout the year.

Cruise lines that don’t allow kids include Viking Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and P&O Cruises.

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here

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How much does a cruise cost in 2024.

Use this guide to learn more about cruise pricing and how to figure out the total cost of a cruise.

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

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With the rising cost of everything, cruise fares – some even as low as $27 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables. Unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

Find your perfect cruise

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $109 per person in an interior cabin for a four-night Bahamas cruise up to $101,199 per person for an entry-level suite on a 168-night world cruise – and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November ranges from approximately $270 to $2,600 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May ranges from approximately $250 to $1,700 per person.
• A seven-night Mediterranean cruise in June ranges from approximately $620 to $2,300 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise on the Pacific Coast in January ranges from approximately $470 to $700 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October ranges from approximately $490 to $1,100 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Mass market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues and several types of nonalcoholic beverages (such as nonbottled water, iced tea, juices, hot coffee and tea), as well as the ship's pools, gym facilities, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

For more perks, you can splurge on a suite or a higher room category. With Celebrity's Concierge Class, for example, you'll be treated to amenities such as a welcome lunch, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, personalized concierge service, an exclusive destination seminar, pillow selection upon request, laundry service and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also get priority check-in and boarding, a private welcome reception, free Basic Surf Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge with complimentary food and beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) served throughout the day, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as the MSC Yacht Club, The Haven by Norwegian or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a secluded pool deck, priority reservations for specialty dining, VIP seating for entertainment, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

Guests of MSC's Yacht Club receive the line's Premium Extra Beverage Package, which covers premium liquors, fine wines and Champagne in the Yacht Club and at most other venues on the ship. Accommodations in The Retreat on Celebrity also include premium beverages throughout the ship. If you're staying in The Haven by Norwegian, a beverage package is not covered in the pricing, but Norwegian frequently advertises its "Free at Sea" package, which includes free unlimited bar, free specialty dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounts on excursions and other perks.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that covers airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate (such as the Norwegian package mentioned above), while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary.

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships . You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slide on Norwegian Viva . It would take a full week (or more) to explore all the entertainment options aboard Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Icon of the Seas – or all the new entertainment offerings and attractions on Princess Cruises' latest addition to its fleet: Sun Princess.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo staterooms, as do other cruise lines. Check out our guide to the best solo cruises with no supplement fare .

These smaller accommodations – typically ranging from around 100 to more than 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC, Cunard and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

'Kids cruise free' promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for children on select sailings.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages. Regent's regular fares typically start at around $3,600 per person for a seven-night cruise, so this is a significant savings. This fare also includes unlimited complimentary shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line. Regent even has a current promotion where kids sail free on a selection of seven- to 20-night itineraries in Europe and the U.K.

Food and beverages are another expense to consider

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues, alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on many ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship.

For an example of the savings with a food package, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 and $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $135 or more for dinner, such as the adult venues on Disney Cruise Line's ships. Other restaurants feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these venues may not include gratuities, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price.

Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi Gelati and Chocolate.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive.

Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a specific brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

It's important to know that there are a few select venues and bars on some ships that do not accept a beverage package, so you'll have to pay extra for drinks at those places. For example, MSC's ships have several signature venues that do not accept drink packages, such as Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Lavazza coffee shops and Venchi 1878.

Norwegian offers a package that covers top-shelf beverages and select bottles of wine and Champagne, Starbucks coffee, bottled water, soda, specialty drinks and other beverages. You'll need to budget around $138 per person per day for this option – and an additional 20% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer. For more information, consult our guide on the drink package options for major cruise lines .

Bundle pricing

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers the "Have It All" package, which encompasses a $100 shore excursion credit, the Signature Beverage Package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and the Surf Wi-Fi package for a six- to nine-day cruise. If you're sailing for 10 to 20 days or even longer, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship. Examples include Norwegian's racetrack, Viva Speedway; high-tech attractions like the Robotron thrill ride and the XD cinema on MSC Seascape ; and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT.

See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access to certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more, starting at about $15 per person per day. The cost increases to roughly $20 per person per day with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

The last option, Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan, starts at around $19 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "All Included" fare includes basic internet and a classic drink package, which the line says can save you potentially hundreds of dollars. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from around $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion that will allow you to arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars. If these types of experiences are not in your budget, look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These activities are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Many of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on board. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Food and beverage packages
• Optional activities (such as spa treatments or extra-fee entertainment on the ship)
• Miscellaneous expenses (such as meals and beverages ashore)
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's 12 all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate between 930 to 998 guests based on double occupancy – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to the spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have alternative dining options at no extra charge, plus free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line , so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

All-inclusive cruises

Regent Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary unlimited shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare (depending on the destination).

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All door-to-door and port-to-port Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, an open bar, gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports and movies under the stars.

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Caribbean in December 2024 round-trip from Miami with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive cruise fare with suite accommodations starts at $7,398 ($3,699 per person). There are additional perks and savings available, depending on the level of accommodations you book and if you combine this cruise with another voyage. You can also check with a travel agent specializing in cruises to see if they have access to other promotions.

For a Silversea cruise in December 2025 that sails round-trip from Bridgetown, Barbados, the all-inclusive port-to-port cruise fare starts at $9,800 for two people ($4,900 per person) in suite accommodations. Contact a travel agent before booking to see if they can offer upgrades or additional amenities.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own. Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, a cruise on a small luxury line may suit you well.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. Cruising is one of her favorite ways to travel and she hopes to book an extended cruise to see the rest of the world someday soon. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival: Which Is Right for You?
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans
• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

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• Cruise From
• Port-Canaveral

Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista

* Coming Soon

Buckle up for big adventure on the Space Coast when you book a Carnival cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida. Fun in the sun is a mission easily accomplished in Port Canaveral: before or after your cruise, take time to blast off from the Kennedy Space Center, hug the turns in a stock car at the world famous speedway, and zoom through the screaming roller coasters of Orlando's theme parks. In addition to all these man-made thrills, cruises from Port Canaveral depart from a coastline of sugary sand beaches and protected islands for native wildlife.

• See a rocket up close at the Kennedy Space Center ™ .
• Walk the bustling Cocoa Beach boardwalk before your cruise from Port Canaveral.
• Encounter exotic animals and exciting adventures at Disney's Animal Kingdom ® park.
• Enjoy an exciting wildlife and alligator tour by airboat.

Gotta see Port Canaveral (Orlando)?

We have a few ideas for you.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.