River cruises are increasingly popular with solo travellers, and for good reason. The intimate ship size, included activities, and social dining arrangements make it easy to meet fellow passengers while still enjoying your independence.
Why River Cruises Are Great for Solo Travellers
- Safe and Structured: Your accommodation, meals, and transportation are all arranged
- Social Atmosphere: Communal dining and small ships make it easy to meet people
- No Single Supplement on Some Ships: Several cruise lines offer solo cabins or waived supplements
- Guided Excursions: Explore with a group rather than navigating alone
- Always Something to Do: Lectures, tastings, and activities if you want company
Tips for Solo River Cruising
Choose the Right Cruise Line
Some cruise lines are more solo-friendly than others. Viking offers dedicated solo cabins with no single supplement on select sailings. Emerald and Scenic also offer solo-friendly options.
Request a Table for Solo Travellers
Many ships have communal tables specifically for solo travellers who want to meet others. Alternatively, request to be seated with different people each night.
Join Shore Excursions
Group excursions are a great way to meet fellow passengers with similar interests. You might find travel companions for the rest of the cruise.
Attend Onboard Events
Trivia nights, cocktail hours, and evening entertainment are perfect opportunities to socialize. Don't hide in your cabin!
Consider a Theme Cruise
Wine-focused, music-themed, or culinary cruises attract like-minded travellers and provide built-in conversation starters.
Managing the Single Supplement
The biggest challenge for solo travellers is the single supplement - an extra fee charged when you occupy a double cabin alone. Here are ways to minimize this cost:
- Book a dedicated solo cabin (Viking, Emerald)
- Look for sailings with waived or reduced supplements
- Consider roommate matching programs
- Book last-minute when supplements may be reduced
Safety Tips
River cruising is one of the safest ways to travel solo, but standard precautions apply:
- Keep valuables in your cabin safe
- Stay with the group on excursions or inform staff if exploring independently
- Carry the ship's contact information when ashore
- Trust your instincts - ship staff are always available to help
Ready to Plan Your Solo Adventure?
Our consultants can help you find the best cruise lines and itineraries for solo travellers, and identify sailings with the best single supplement deals.