Are cruises more expensive for one person?

Because cruise fares are based on double occupancy in each cabin, cruising as a single person can be expensive. Cruise lines make up for the absence of another passenger by charging what they call a "single supplement" that can be as high as 200 percent of the standard price.



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The biggest obstacle to solo travelers in terms of pricing goes back to how cruise lines establish their fares. Cruise lines base their fares on the presumption that two people will be in a room, called double occupancy. With that fare, the passenger receives their accommodations, meals, entertainment, and so on.

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A few cruise lines feature a limited number of cabins designated for single occupancy sparing the solo cruiser from having to pay double. While cruise lines advertise these single cabins as having no supplement, the single rate is usually slightly higher than the per-person rate of comparable double occupancy cabins.

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Cruise fares are priced based on the assumption that each cabin will be occupied by two passengers. So, for example, if the cruise fare for each person in a cabin is $10,000 then the cruise line pricing assumes they will be paid $20,000 in total fares for the cabin.

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A short three to four-night cruise can start from as low as $200-$300 per person for an inside cabin, while a week-long cruise can cost anywhere from $500-$1500 per person, depending on the cruise line, the destination, and the type of cabin.

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Cruise prices are typically shown per person, based on double occupancy, which means that the price is based on two people sharing a cabin. If you're traveling solo, you may be required to pay a single supplement fee, which is an additional fee that covers the cost of the second person in the cabin.

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A few cruise lines feature a limited number of cabins designated for single occupancy sparing the solo cruiser from having to pay double. While cruise lines advertise these single cabins as having no supplement, the single rate is usually slightly higher than the per-person rate of comparable double occupancy cabins.

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A single passenger takes up a whole cabin; the cruise lines don't match roommates for you. However, some cruise lines are now creating single rooms to be sold at a lower fare than having to pay double for a cabin. The price is less than paying double, but more than if you were sharing a cabin.

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The cruise lines' profit model is based on getting bodies onboard and then upcharging the heck out of them. They want to have at least two people in every cabin. If you're a solo in a cabin, you are basically paying for two bodies, much of the time (in other words, the cruise lines charge you a 100% supplement).

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Cruising by yourself is a great way to relax, rejuvenate, and score some alone time. You can even take some time to meet new people if that's your goal. Going on a solo cruise allows you to do exactly what you want to do at your own pace and on your own schedule.

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Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America are the only major cruise lines to offer solo cabins priced for one person.

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13 Tips for Finding Cheap Cruise Deals
  1. Don't Wait for Last-Minute Cruise Deals on High-Season Sailings. ...
  2. Hunt Down Shoulder Season and Repositioning Cruise Deals. ...
  3. Use Cruise Critic's Deal Score to Know When a Deal is Really a Deal. ...
  4. Bundle Up for the Best Cruise Deals. ...
  5. Ask for a Price Drop Credit When Cruise Fares Change.


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As a general rule, plan to have $50 to $100 each day in the local currency. Also, you may want to bring an extra $20 a day for tipping crew members. Make sure to include smaller bills for tips. Fifty to a hundred dollars a day should be enough to cover small purchases, tips and snacks at each port.

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According to data provided by the cruise industry (CLIA: Cruise Line Industry Association), the average cruise duration is seven days and the average cost is around $1700. Cruise lines charge between $800 and $8,000 for a 7-night Caribbean trip in a balcony stateroom.

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Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas: All of Royal Caribbean's Quantum-class ships feature 28 dedicated studio cabins for travelers traveling solo.

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Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

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Cruises can be budget-friendly vacations if you're savvy. Think about it: the cost of a cruise includes lodging, meals, snacks, activities and entertainment are all free to some extent.

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Cruise ship workers are not supposed to hook up with passengers, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen. It is rare though – most crew follow the rules because they know they'll lose their job if they're caught. You won't be surprised to hear that cruise lines ban crew from having sex with passengers.

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Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel; however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take. Each guest has the option to carry their luggage on board or check-in luggage prior to boarding.

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All rates posted on this website are based on double occupancy. A single guest who wishes to have a stateroom to themselves will be expected to pay 200% of the category rate, unless otherwise noted in the pricing. Was this content helpful?

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Kids Cruise Free Offer: Guests ages 18 and under (“children”) are eligible to travel free (Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses are additional) when booked as a 3rd and/or 4th guest on select cruises. Limit up to two free children per eligible booking. Offer excludes Alaska cruisetours; other exclusions may apply.

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But what if you add a third person into the cabin? You might not realize it, but while most people cruise with two to a cabin, you can cruise with three people… and even a fourth cabinmate. For some passengers this is a great way to sail with family or friends, without the cost of an additional room.

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What is the cheapest time to book a cruise? Prospective cruisers can usually find a lot of good deals at the beginning of the year during wave season, Goldberg-Glazer said. That period typically lasts from January until March. However, the optimal time to book may depend on when you plan to sail.

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