It is hard to find cruises that don’t charge single supplements. However, there are groups, such as AARP.com, www.Travelcompanions.com and www.OSoloMio.com that organize cruises for their members and will pair up suitable travelers so as to avoid single supplements. Additionally, cruise lines have begun to cater to solo cruisers. For example, lots of European River Cruises waive single supplement fees, including www.Uniworld.com, www.AvalonWaterways.com, and Grand Circle Cruise Line. http://www.gct.com/about/river-cruises
Bonus: There is no danger of seasickness on these cruises! More options…
Crystal Cruises is a good option because they are small ships offering a more intimate experience, which makes it easier for you to meet other passenger. They have assigned seating for dining and will group solo cruisers with other solo cruisers. www.crystalcruises.com
Holland America Line does not offer studio rooms or waive single supplements but they do have a ‘Singles Partner Program’. If a suitable roommate cannot be found, you will be offered a discounted price. www.hollandamerica.com
Norwegian Cruise Lines offers studio rooms aboard some of its ships, such as Norwegian Epic, Pride of America, Norwegian Breakaway, and Norwegian Getaway. Some ships offer a lounge just for their studio passengers with its own bartender and pre-dinner meetings. www.ncl.com
P&O Cruises offer single cabins aboard their ship Azura. The Azura has only 18 solo cabins available but will offer 27 more cabins on their newest ship, Britannia. www.pocruises.com
Some cruise lines waive single supplements on select sailings. Be sure to ask the cruise rep or your travel agent. FYI: I recommend using a travel agent to book your cruise. Other ways to avoid paying a supplement include getting together your own group of cruisers from your church, workplace or a local club you belong to (such as book club or tennis club), if you cannot find family or friends to travel with. Do a search online for ‘solo travel and cruises’ and you’ll see lots of resources.
