Taking a cruise as a solo traveler over 50 can be an exciting and enriching experience, offering the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and the chance to meet fascinating people along the way.
If you’re over 50 and considering a solo cruise, you’re in great company!
The demand for solo-friendly cruises is growing rapidly, with cruise lines introducing more options tailored specifically for single travelers. Whether you’re embarking on your first cruise or you’re a seasoned traveler, choosing the right cruise line can make all the difference in ensuring a memorable and enjoyable voyage.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cruising solo over 50, including the best cruise lines designed to cater to single travelers like you.
Smart Ways to Handle the Single Supplement
Nobody likes paying extra just for traveling solo. Many major cruise lines traditionally charge this extra fee, but here’s the good news – you’ve got options to avoid or reduce these costs.
Watch for special promotions, especially during off-peak seasons when cruise lines often reduce or waive the single supplement fee. I’ve seen some fantastic deals pop up for last-minute bookings too.
If you’re flexible with dates, consider booking during shoulder season – that’s September through November or April through May. These periods often offer the best deals and reduced single supplements.
Some cruise lines are particularly good with solo pricing:
- Silversea Cruises regularly offers reduced supplements and sometimes runs promotions with no single supplement at all
- Norwegian Cruise Line has pioneered solo-friendly pricing on many routes
- Royal Caribbean frequently includes solo travelers in their promotional deals
- MSC Cruises often runs singles specials on their Mediterranean routes
Choosing Your Perfect Ship Size
The size of your ship can make a big difference in your social experience. On smaller ships, you’ll find it’s easier to bump into the same people at breakfast or during activities, which naturally leads to forming friendships.
Larger ships offer more variety in activities and dining, but they need a bit more effort on the social front. That said, they often have better organized singles meetups and more structured social events.
For a first solo cruise, mid-sized ships (around 2,000 passengers) often hit the sweet spot. They’re large enough to offer plenty of activities but small enough to feel manageable and social.
Consider expedition-style cruises too – these smaller ships create a wonderful sense of community. You’ll typically find yourself with 100-200 like-minded travelers who share your interest in exploration and learning.
Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers Over 50
Holland America Line
Holland America stands out for their thoughtful approach to solo cruisers. Their newer ships like Koningsdam (Pinnacle Class) include dedicated single staterooms, and they offer lots of enrichment activities that appeal to mature travelers.
Their “Music Walk” venues provide natural gathering spots where you can enjoy everything from classical music to rock hits. HAL also hosts meetups for singles and solo travellers, which is a great way to meet like minded cruisers.
Cunard Line
Cunard is a great option for solo travelers over 50, offering comfortable solo staterooms, an elegant atmosphere, and many ways to connect with others. From afternoon tea and ballroom dancing to shared dining tables and solo traveler meet-ups, it’s easy to socialize while still enjoying personal space.
The cruise line also offers engaging lectures, live entertainment, and unique itineraries, including transatlantic crossings and cultural destinations. With top-notch service and a refined yet welcoming vibe, Cunard makes solo cruising a smooth, enjoyable, and enriching experience.
Virgin Voyages
While new to the cruise ship scene, Virgin Voyages offers a fresh take on cruising that’s attracting many active solo travelers. Their ships are adult-only and include social spaces designed for meeting new people.
The casual and welcoming atmosphere and focus on wellness activities like yoga and meditation appeal to many solo travelers.
Azamara
Azamara is a great choice for solo travelers over 50, offering a mix of luxury, cultural experiences, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. With small, 700-passenger ships, it provides an upscale cruise without the overwhelming crowds, making it easy to meet fellow travelers or simply enjoy some quiet time.
Solo cruisers can take advantage of discounted single rates on select itineraries, which include immersive journeys through the Mediterranean, South Africa, South America, and beyond. The cruise line is known for its in-depth, destination-focused experiences, with extended port stays and exclusive AzAmazing Evenings that showcase local culture.
Onboard, guests can enjoy an enriching travel experience with world class dining, wine tastings, and culinary demonstrations. With a refined yet welcoming vibe, Azamara offers the perfect balance of social engagement, cultural exploration, and luxurious comfort, making it a great option for solo travelers over 50.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises is a great choice for solo travelers over 50, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere with plenty of ways to connect with others. While not specifically designed for singles, the cruise line hosts solo meet-and-greet events, making it easy to mingle onboard.
Their Edge-class ships, including Edge, Apex, Beyond, and Ascent, feature beautifully designed single staterooms with Infinite Verandas, offering the same upscale amenities as standard cabins.
With Michelin-starred dining, contemporary entertainment, and a beautiful ship design, Celebrity blends luxury with a modern touch, making it an excellent choice for solo cruisers.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Their Studio Cabins, available on several ships, are designed specifically for solo cruisers, offering a comfortable and affordable option without the dreaded single supplement. These cabins come with exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, a private space where solo travelers can relax, enjoy complimentary snacks and coffee, and connect with fellow cruise passengers.
Every evening around 5 PM, solo cruisers staying in Studio Cabins can join a hosted meetup in the lounge, where a dedicated coordinator helps organize group activities, arrange dinner plans, and secure seating for shows.
NCL’s Freestyle Cruising also means no strict dining times or assigned seating, creating a flexible cruising experience for solo cruisers.
With its fun atmosphere, excellent entertainment, and a commitment to solo-friendly cruising, Norwegian Cruise Line is an amazing option for travelers over 50.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is a great choice for solo travelers over 50 who appreciate a laid-back, elegant cruising experience with thoughtfully designed cruise ships.
The OceanMedallion technology enhances the cruise experience, offering seamless check-ins, keyless cabin entry, on-demand service, and an easy way to connect with fellow passengers.
Their newest ship, the Sun Princess, further elevates the experience with stunning architecture, modern amenities, and expanded dining and entertainment options.
With a more mature and relaxed vibe, Princess offers a variety of ways for solo travelers to enjoy their time at sea. From dance classes to live music, there is no shortage of things to do on a Princess cruise.
Princess also has a strong emphasis on destination-focused travel. This is great for adventurous solo cruisers looking to explore new places.
Solo Cabins – Your Private Haven
Having your own dedicated solo cabin can be a game-changer. These rooms are designed and priced specifically for single cruisers, often with clever space-saving features and typically ranging from 100 to 130 square feet.
Norwegian Cruise Line really leads the pack here with their Studio cabins. You’ll get access to an exclusive Studio Lounge – think of it as a private living room where solo travelers can meet for coffee or pre-dinner drinks. The Studio Lounge even has its own concierge to help plan activities and make dinner reservations.
Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships offer some neat innovations too. Their solo cabins include “virtual balconies” – large screens that show real-time views of the ocean. Pretty cool, right?
Holland America Line has introduced single ocean-view rooms on their newer ships, giving solo travelers the perks of natural light and sea views without the single supplement.
Related: I Tried a Solo Cabin For The First Time! Here’s What Surprised Me
Tips for Making New Friends Onboard
Meeting new people is often the highlight of a solo cruise. Here’s what works well:
- Join wine tastings or cooking classes – they’re natural conversation starters and usually limited to 12-15 people
- Look for enrichment programs like dance classes or art workshops – these often run for several sessions, giving you time to form real friendships
- Attend the solo traveler meetups – they’re usually organized on the first day and can set you up with a social group for the whole cruise
- Choose open seating at dinner – you’ll meet different people each night and can always arrange to meet up again if you click with someone
The main dining room is actually one of the best places to make connections. Many cruise lines will help arrange group tables for solo travelers who want to dine together. Some ships even have dedicated dining times for singles.
Don’t miss the cocktail mixers – they’re usually held in the early evening and are perfect for making dinner plans with new friends. Some cruise lines even have dedicated host officers who ensure solo travelers feel included in social activities.
Tips for Getting the Best Experience
Book shore excursions through the cruise line – they’re a great way to meet fellow passengers with similar interests. Small group tours often lead to lasting friendships, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing the ship won’t leave without you.
Consider specialty dining packages. The specialty restaurants usually have more intimate settings that make it easier to chat with other diners. Many offer communal tables or cooking demonstrations that naturally bring people together.
Don’t skip the first day’s activities – that’s when other solo travelers are also looking to make connections. The cruise director can often help introduce you to other singles if you let them know you’re interested.
Take advantage of sea days – these are prime opportunities for joining activities and meeting people. Many ships offer special workshops or lectures on sea days that attract intellectually curious travelers.
Practical Considerations
Always check the latest travel advice for your planned route. Some destinations have specific requirements for solo travelers, and it’s good to know about local laws and customs before you go.
Travel insurance is particularly important when cruising solo – make sure it covers cruise-specific situations. Look for policies that include single cabin coverage and trip interruption protection.
Look into the cruise line’s app before you sail – many now have messaging features that make it easy to stay in touch with new friends you meet onboard. Some even let you book activities and dining reservations right from your phone.
Pack for the social activities you enjoy – if you love dancing, bring those dance shoes. If you’re into photography, pack your camera for shore excursions. Having the right gear helps you fully participate in the activities where you’re most likely to meet like-minded people.
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Final Thoughts on Solo Cruises for Over 50s
Going on a cruise by yourself isn’t just about traveling alone – it’s about opening yourself up to new experiences and connections. The over-50 solo cruise scene is booming, and there’s never been a better time to try it.
Whether you choose a cozy river cruise or a grand ocean voyage, the key is picking the experience that matches your social style and interests. Don’t let traveling solo hold you back – some of the best cruise memories come from those unexpected friendships made at sea.
Remember, solo cruising gives you the perfect mix of independence and community. You can join in when you want company and retreat to your private space when you need some quiet time. That’s what makes it such a great choice for over-50s looking for their next adventure.
Have you taken a solo cruise? Please let me know in the comments below
Happy Cruising!
Ilana
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