Solo cruise fees: Here’s why you’ll pay extra to travel alone

If you organized and budgeted for a cruise but suddenly discovered it would cost you twice what you anticipated, would you still proceed? This is the situation most solo cruisers encounter almost every time they book a trip. Cruise companies impose a charge known as a single supplement on travelers wishing to occupy a cabin designed for two.

It may seem unfair, but there’s a rationale behind the additional cost. In this article, I’ll explain what a single supplement entails, why cruise companies implement these substantial fees, and how you might avoid them on your next solo journey.

What does single supplement mean on a cruise?

Most cruise cabins are built to accommodate at least two guests. Unlike hotel rooms, pricing is charged per person rather than per room, and fares are calculated based on double occupancy. A single supplement is an extra fee that cruise lines impose on solo travelers booking cabins meant for two or more people.

Cruise lines rely heavily on revenue from onboard purchases, which is why they impose single supplements to make up for the absence of a second passenger in your cabin. With just one guest in the room, the cruise line loses out on potential earnings from a second person's spending on shore excursions, drinks, spa services, and gambling. This supplement aims to mitigate the expected financial shortfall from having fewer passengers.

What’s the cost of a single supplement on a cruise?

Typically, single supplements amount to 100% of the per-person fare. If you’re traveling solo in a cabin designed for multiple guests, you should anticipate paying double the listed price for that cabin — your fare plus the fare for the absent companion who isn’t sharing the space with you on your journey.

The one bright side is that you won't be responsible for paying double the taxes and fees. You’ll only cover your own, even if you’re cruising alone.

Is a single supplement required on a cruise ship?

That depends on your cruise line, but you should anticipate a single supplement whenever you sail solo in a cabin designed for two or more guests.

Certain cruise lines may provide special promotions with a reduced single supplement, charging only 25% or 50% of the second passenger's fare instead of the full rate. You’ll still incur a cost, but it will be lower.

What strategies can help you avoid single supplements on a cruise?

With the rise in popularity of solo cruising, many prominent cruise lines have introduced single-occupancy cabins on their latest ships. While these solo cabins are typically priced higher than double-occupancy rates, they are usually still more economical than paying a single supplement.

Travelers wanting to save on their own space at sea should look into Cunard, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, and Virgin Voyages. These are among the top options for solo cruisers.

Other ways to save include seeking out deals. During key seasons, like Black Friday and wave season, some cruise lines may eliminate the single supplement entirely for bookings made within specific time frames. Additionally, you can ask your travel agent to keep you updated on any promotions aimed at solo travelers.

You might also consider booking through a charter company that specializes in trips for solo adventurers. They often can pair you with a roommate, allowing you to share costs and avoid single supplements.

Have additional cruise-related questions? TPG has the answers:

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• Overboard incidents: Understanding how passengers fall from cruise ships
• Baked Alaska explained: Why it's a cruise ship tradition
• Exploring the largest cruise ships in existence
• Understanding the Jones Act and its effects on cruise operations
• What exactly is a lido deck on a cruise liner?
• What does a cruise cabin guarantee mean, and can it help you save?
• How does a cruise ship concierge differ from a butler?