Why does it cost more for one person on a cruise?

Most cruise ship staterooms are designed for two people. To make up for lost revenue from addons like drink packages, shore excursions, and other extras, some cruise lines will charge single travelers who book a double occupancy stateroom a single supplement fee on top of the base per person fare.



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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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It's because pricing of cruises (and many other package vacations, like tours) are intended for double occupancy, but advertised at a per person rate which makes it seem like a smaller number, and singles have to pay a premium for using that space. Its just the way this sort of travel has always been priced.

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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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So how much money do you need? The answer to this question varies a lot by person, their travel habits, spending preferences, length of the cruise and destination. Many people suggest $100 per day, and this has generally worked well for me in my cruising experiences.

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The 3rd person in one cabin will probably be discounted over the regular fare, while the remaining 4 will cost the full fare. It would be cheaper the put 4 in one cabin and the third child in the other family's cabin if cost is the main concern. Another option is to sail on a ship with 5 person cabins.

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In general, plan on giving $16–$23 in gratuities per day for each passenger. Note that the amount should be tabulated for each individual in your party—don't try to tip once per couple or group. So if you're planning to go on a 7-day cruise, expect to give a total of between $112 and $161 per person in gratuities.

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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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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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Here are seven ways to avoid spending any extra money once you've boarded your cruise ship.
  1. Just drink water, juice, and coffee. ...
  2. Replace a paid shore excursion with self-guided tours. ...
  3. Stay on the ship. ...
  4. Get the most out of included places to eat. ...
  5. Do your homework during the packing process. ...
  6. Save money on laundry.


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You can swap out a person, as long as one of the original passengers is still on the sailing.

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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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Your cruise fare always includes food for breakfast, lunch and dinner on a cruise ship. However, not all venues that offer food will be free. The main dining room and cruise ship buffet will always be included in your cruise fare, though a few specialty items might cost extra.

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If you're bringing the whole family, a 5 or 7 day cruise might be the best way to make sure everyone has an awesome getaway. And for those lucky folks with even more time to spare, a cruise of 10 days or more will give you an incredible experience of all the best things a cruise has to offer.

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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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The base prices for cruises are typically lower than prices for resorts because the cruise lines expect you to make up the difference in onboard purchases.

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