Traveling solo can be freeing since there’s no set agenda, you’re not trying to entertain other people, and you can simply go with the flow of the day. But one of the biggest downsides to traveling solo is the dreaded single supplements.
The single surcharge for cruises, tour operators, and even some hotels is forced upon those traveling alone simply because they booked a room or tour meant to occupy two or more guests. But the travel industry is changing, and more and more cruises and tours are offering solo travelers the chance to enjoy a vacation without this added fee. Keep reading to learn about the best cruises that don’t charge that pesky single supplement fee.
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Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is known for its ultra-luxe feel and level of service, which solo travelers can enjoy on select sailings every year. In 2026, cruises like the eight-day Magical Parisian Holiday have waived single supplements on select departures and stateroom categories.
What makes these river cruise options from Uniworld so nice for solo travelers is that all you have to do is simply show up on time, thanks to the itinerary already being fully planned out, including transportation to and from the ship and local landmarks. And if you want to venture out for some time alone exploring, the Cruise Manager can help you book everything from museum tickets to dinner reservations. Even better, since the ships are small, occupying just 120 guests, you may make a few new friends along the way.
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Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
If you’re looking to sail on one of the major ocean cruise lines, Norwegian Cruise Line is the best option for solo travelers. The cruise line has fully dedicated solo staterooms on all of its ships, including the newest vessel, Norwegian Luna. These rooms range in style from Solo Balcony Staterooms, which offer extra space akin to a standard balcony room for multiple people, all the way to Solo Studios, which are more compact but perfect for those who won’t spend much time in their cabin anyway.
Even better for solo travelers, the cruise line offers a variety of solo activities, from meet-ups and pub crawls where you can meet other solo guests. And if you really just want some me-time, the spa is the best spot to pamper yourself. I particularly love the Thermal Suite on the Prima Class ships, which features multiple saunas, pools, and a beautiful relaxation room with panoramic ocean views.
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Riviera Travel
Riviera Travel
In 2027, Riviera Travel is ringing in a new era of solo cruising on Europe’s iconic rivers with the first dedicated ship for solo travelers. The MS George Elliot will feature all solo departures, no single supplements, and itineraries along the Rhine and Danube. Onboard the ship, guests can enjoy fine dining in the opulent restaurant, a pool and putting green on the sun deck, and a spectacular observation lounge with panoramic windows overlooking the river and charming towns of Europe.
One itinerary I particularly love is the Rhine Cruise to Switzerland for Solo Travelers. The weeklong sailing starts in Cologne, Germany, with plenty of beautiful stops along the way in destinations like Rüdesheim, Germany; Strasbourg, France; and Lucerne, Switzerland. The trip includes 10 different excursions, meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and more, all for solo travelers.
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Explora Journeys
Photo courtesy of Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys, the luxury cruise line owned by MSC Cruises, is a fantastic choice for solo travelers. The brand often runs deals with zero or extremely reduced single supplements on select cruises. The inclusive fares feature a wide range of culinary, wellness, and cultural experiences, plus onboard Wi-Fi, gratuities, and shuttle service from the ship to the city center in ports of call.
While the cruise line offers solo discounts on sailings around the world, from Europe and Alaska to Iceland and the Pacific Coast of the United States, one option that really stands out is the Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Barcelona, Spain cruise taking place in June 2027. The weeklong cruise visits four countries, though a highlight is a visit to Sorrento, Italy, where you can traverse the Amalfi Coastor visit historic sites like Pompeii or Herculaneum. Don’t forget to add a night or two at the beginning of your trip to enjoy all that Monaco has to offer too.
Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises
Another option for ocean cruises isCrystal Cruises. The luxury cruise line is known for its solo traveler program, which includes solo guest rooms and solo gatherings, plus evening dinner tables just for solo guests to enjoy a meal together. Onboard every voyage, there are also Crystal Ambassador Hosts who can act as dance partners and dining companions for solo guests.
Onboard the beautiful ships, you’ll be able to enjoy top-notch service, including from a personal butler, 24-hour in-suite dining, and all-inclusive drinking and dining around the vessel. And while the single supplement onboard is not completely eliminated, there are plenty of fares with a significantly reduced solo traveler fee, making this a good option for those who want a cruise to unique destinations, exceptional service, and amenities and activities designed with solo travelers in mind.
While there are plenty of solo cruises to choose from, one that’s particularly enticing is the 11-night San Juan to New York City itinerary taking place in September 2026. You’ll embark on the ship in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and visit a host of Caribbean islands like Saint Martin, Dominica, Barbados, and Turks and Caicos before heading north to New York City. This is a port-intensive itinerary, with just two dedicated sea days, but it’s ideal for those who love exploring new places.
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