The Best Cruise Ship Cabins for Solo Travelers

Traveling solo on a cruise used to feel a little awkward, like you were crashing a party meant for couples and families. But not anymore. Cruise lines have figured out that plenty of us actually like going it alone, and they’ve started building cabins suited for one, along with lounges where you can bump into other solo travelers (or not, if you’d rather keep to yourself).

Maybe you picture a river cruise, watching the shoreline slide past while church bells ring out from some tiny riverside town. Or perhaps you want the energy of a giant ocean ship, where there’s always music, late-night food, and a crowd to get lost in. Both work. The trick is picking the cabin that matches how you like to travel.

Below, we list the top 5 cruise ship cabins for solo travelers: 

Norwegian Cruise Line – Studio Cabins

Norwegian was one of the first cruise lines to really cater to solo travelers. Their Studio Cabins are small but smart. Every room is equipped with a cozy bed, adjustable mood lighting, and storage that actually works. The Studio Lounge is the real gem: a space where solo cruisers can swap tips, plan meetups, play a game, or just hang out with a drink.

Insider Tip: These cabins go fast, especially in summer. Book early if you want a window seat — or any seat, really. Check out all Norwegian Cruise Line’s best ships.

Viking River Cruises – Solo-Friendly Suites

Viking makes solo cruising feel surprisingly roomy. The suites have big windows and plenty of space to spread out — no feeling boxed in. Everything’s included: meals, drinks, excursions. That means you can relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about the logistics.

Insider Tip: Watch for last-minute cruise deals. Sometimes Viking waives the single supplement, which is a sweet bonus for solo travelers.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection – Solo Traveler Savings

Uniworld’s all-inclusive river cruises have that boutique-hotel-meets-ship feel. They often have solo-traveler rates on select trips, so you can enjoy fancy rooms and curated excursions without paying full single fares.

Insider Tip: Sign up for the newsletter. Some of the best solo getaway deals appear first in your inbox.

Avalon Waterways – Panorama Suites

Avalon’s Panorama Suites are like having a front-row seat to Europe’s rivers. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a small balcony from which you’ll see vineyards, villages, and the occasional duck crossing the river. And since it’s all-inclusive, you can just sip your coffee and enjoy the view without thinking about lunch or snacks.

Insider Tip: Sail during the shoulder season.  With fewer tourists and quieter ports, the locals are more willing to chat.

A-ROSA River Cruises – Single Cabins

A-ROSA’s single cabins are compact but well thought out. You get privacy, but you’re never far from the shared tables or wine tastings, so meeting other travelers feels natural. It’s easy to find someone to swap river stories with or plan a small excursion.

Insider Tip: Join a cooking or wine workshop. Those smaller groups are where you’ll make the most memorable connections.

Finding the Cabin That Fits You

The right cabin forms the foundation for a fulfilling solo cruise experience. Hunt for last-minute cruise deals, think about the excursions you want, and pick a cabin that matches your style. A little planning can turn a solo getaway into something truly unforgettable.