The Best Cruises for Singles Over 50

by Ellen Blake

Love to cruise, but have no one to go with? No worries, you can enjoy a fabulous vacation at sea by yourself! Traveling alone is incredibly empowering. Solo travelers in their 50s have lots of options these days for cruising alone that provide abundant opportunities to engage with fellow passengers. Cruise lines offer many different types of adventures that stop in locations all over the world. Choose from exotic destinations or ones closer to home. Stay on the ship for five days or two weeks. The options are endless ranging in price and ship size.

If signing up for an organized singles cruise is not your thing, you can opt instead to book on a solo-friendly cruise line. Some offer discounts for single travelers or roommate matching services. Here are our picks for the best over-50 singles cruises.

What is a Senior Single Cruise?

A senior single cruise is a type of cruise specifically designed for older adults who are single and looking to meet new people, make friends, and potentially find romantic connections. These cruises cater to individuals typically aged 50 and above, although the age range may vary depending on the cruise line and the specific cruise’s theme.

On these cruises, you can expect lots of age-appropriate activities that cater to the interests of seniors. From dancing and social gatherings to workshops and exciting excursions, cruise ships offer a dizzying array of options. You’ll get the chance to meet fellow travelers during group dining experiences, making it super easy to strike up conversations and get to know each other better. Some cruises even offer matchmaking events or icebreakers to help break the ice and bring people closer together. Keep in mind not all 50Plus individuals on these cruises are actively seeking romantic partners; some simply want to enjoy a vacation with a group of peers who share similar experiences and interests. The best part of a senior single cruise is that you don’t have to worry about feeling out of place because everyone is there to have a great time and enjoy each other’s company.

What to Expect From Singles Cruises for Seniors

Single individuals over 50 have a wide range of cruise options to choose from, catering to various interests and preferences. Here are some popular types of cruises that are well-suited for this audience:

Senior Singles Cruises

These cruises are specifically designed for older adults, typically aged 50 and above, who are unattached and looking to meet new people. They offer age-appropriate activities, group dining, and socializing opportunities, creating a friendly and relaxed environment for singles to connect.

Adventure Cruises

For active individuals who love exploring new places and seeking thrilling experiences, adventure cruises are a great choice. These cruises often include excursions like hiking, snorkeling, zip-lining, and other adventurous activities that cater to the more adventurous side of singles over 50.

Cultural and Enrichment Cruises

If you’re interested in learning about different cultures and history, cultural and enrichment cruises might be perfect for you. These cruises often feature onboard lectures, workshops, and guided tours to explore the art, history, and traditions of the destinations visited.

Music and Themed Cruises

Themed cruises centered around music genres, hobbies, or interests can be a fun way for like-minded singles to connect. Whether it’s a jazz cruise, a wine-tasting cruise, or a cruise focused on a specific hobby, you can share your passions with others who have similar interests.

River Cruises

River cruises offer a more intimate and immersive experience as you sail through picturesque rivers and waterways. These cruises often visit smaller ports and towns, allowing for in-depth exploration and meaningful connections with fellow travelers.

Solo Traveler Cruises

Some cruise lines offer special solo traveler cruises, where single passengers can enjoy a more inclusive and social experience. These cruises often have dedicated hosts or social events for solo travelers to meet and mingle.

Wellness and Health Cruises

For those who prioritize health and well-being, wellness cruises provide opportunities for fitness classes, spa treatments, healthy dining options, and mindfulness activities, all while cruising to beautiful destinations.

When choosing a cruise, consider the cruise duration, the destinations visited, the onboard amenities and entertainment, and the type of fellow travelers you’d like to meet. It’s essential to select a cruise that aligns with your interests and preferences to ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience as an unattached traveler over 50. With so much online information these days, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. We highly recommend working with a seasoned travel agent with personal experience with the different cruise lines and specific ships to help you find the cruise ship for your desired destination that best meets your needs.

Destinations for Cruises for Singles Over 50

Where do you want to go? Once you decide on the general area, you can research the different ships that travel there and learn the specific ports where they dock.

Alaska Cruises

An Alaskan cruise offers a unique and unforgettable experience, providing travelers with a chance to explore some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes on Earth.  Alaska is renowned for its awe-inspiring scenery, including majestic glaciers, towering snow-capped mountains, pristine fjords, and abundant wildlife. Senior singles cruises to Alaska’s Inside Passage allow you to witness this breathtaking beauty from the comfort of your ship. During your cruise, you may have the opportunity to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, bald eagles, bears, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitats. If you are looking for a singles cruise with a high level of comfort and luxury, Alaska is a great choice.

River Cruises

River cruises are also fantastic options for lone travelers. These ships offer a relaxed and enriching way to explore destinations along picturesque rivers, making them an excellent option for solo travelers seeking a friendly, inclusive, and culturally immersive travel experience. In addition, river cruises typically accommodate a smaller number of passengers compared to ocean cruises, creating a more intimate and friendly atmosphere. This makes it easy for solo travelers to interact with fellow passengers and form connections. Another benefit is for those concerned about getting seasick. Singles river cruises navigate calmer waters, avoiding the possibility of illness that can occur on ocean cruises.

Mediterranean Cruises

Mediterranean cruises offer an exciting and enriching travel experience, allowing older solo travelers to explore the stunning and culturally diverse regions surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. These cruises visit a wide range of captivating ports in countries such as Spain, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Turkey, France, and many more. Each destination offers its unique history, culture, and culinary delights, providing ample opportunities for exploration and enrichment.  Develop friendships with others who share a similar thirst for this type of culturally enriching experience. When selecting a Mediterranean cruise for older adults traveling alone, consider the cruise itinerary, the duration of the trip, the cruise line’s amenities and offerings, and any specific interests or activities that you would like to experience during the journey for a memorable and fulfilling travel experience, offering a mix of relaxation, cultural enrichment, and exciting adventures.

Caribbean Cruises

Singles Caribbean cruises provide absolutely amazing experiences. From thrilling shore excursions exploring the beauty of tropical islands to onboard events like dance parties, karaoke nights, and themed gatherings – there’s never a dull moment. And you’ll have many opportunities to interact with the other passengers. Not only is a Caribbean cruise safe and convenient, but it also offers you the chance to relax and unwind amidst stunning ocean views. You can soak up the sun by the pool, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or take part in invigorating fitness classes – all designed to make your journey a blissful escape.

A cruise to Bahamas is a particularly popular destination. Other wonderful locations often visited on Caribbean cruises include Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios, St. Thomas, St. Marteen/St. Martin, Barbados, Antigua, St. Lucia, and Puerto Rico. The specific destinations and ports of call on a Caribbean cruise vary depending on the cruise line, ship, and itinerary. Find the journey that best fits your vision of a dream vacation and provides opportunities to do what you want to do whether it is sightseeing, hiking, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach. You can look forward to making lifelong friends and having an unforgettable adventure when you book a Caribbean cruise!

Which Cruise Lines Offer Trips for Singles Over 50?

Many cruise lines offer trips for singles over 50. Royal Caribbean, Viking, Princess, Norwegian, Silversea, and Holland America cruise lines are the most popular options. We left Carnival Cruise Line off the list because they seem to cater more to singles in their 20s and 30s as of this writing.

Some people hesitate to travel alone, but when you choose to cruise, the cruise line takes care of almost all of the planning. All you need to do is book the cruise, show up on time, and enjoy the journey! Singles cruises are often on more luxurious ships and may offer roommate matching services or cabins specifically designed for solo cruisers. Here are some of the cruise lines that we recommend if you’re looking for cruises for unattached individuals over 50:

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

While popular with families, the Royal Caribbean cruise line also offers wonderful options for seniors traveling alone. They offer a wide variety of onboard activities, entertainment options, and excursions providing excellent opportunities for solo travelers to meet new people.

The best Royal Caribbean senior singles cruises for you likely will depend on your age or the age of the passengers you prefer mixing with.  For example, an excellent cruise option for senior singles is the Royal Caribbean Radiance Class. With a smaller ship size, passengers enjoy a more personalized and intimate experience. This offers great opportunities to connect with fellow travelers. And despite its smaller size, the Radiance Class still provides all the signature features this cruise line is known for such as exceptional entertainment, luxurious accommodations, and excellent dining options. There are four ships in the Radiance Class: Brilliance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas. All offer solo cabins, though these may not be the least expensive accommodations on the ship.

Princess Cruise Line

With Princess Cruises, it’s never too late to embark on an unforgettable journey. Whether you prefer domestic adventures or international experiences, traveling on Princess solo cruises will provide a journey you always dreamed about. For onboard mingling, Princess plans singles-only nights with music and dancing that provide ample opportunity to connect with other travelers. They also offer tennis courts and yoga classes, so passengers traveling alone can meet new friends while working up a sweat, as well as cooking classes and wine tastings. Off the ship, the comfortable and well-planned shore excursions provide yet another avenue to meet like-minded people on your cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruises provide plenty of fabulous options to plan your cruise vacation. It used to cost a small fortune if you wanted to cruise solo as you had to pay the double occupancy cost to bunk in a stateroom by yourself. Norwegian offers award-winning studio staterooms where no single supplement applies. In fact, they were the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. The studios are the perfect size for solo cruising. Norwegian cruises for unattached seniors go to interesting destinations all over the world. And there is an abundance of opportunities to meet fellow passengers. For example, they offer their “Studio Lounge”, which is a great way to meet other single cruisers. And most sailings have singles meet-ups for those cruising alone.

Holland America Cruise Line

Holland America cruises are popular with solo travelers. The average passenger age on this cruise line is the mid-60s, and they cater to this age group, offering plenty of onboard activities such as yoga, wine tastings, culinary programs, singles mixers, dance lessons, and more. They also provide opportunities for exceptional offboard activities and excursions. Holland America is particularly good for solo travelers to its “Singles Partners Program” which provides over 40 activities dedicated to solo guests. They also provide a “Share a Room” option which travelers can opt into. Certain ships on this cruise line, such as the Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam, offer single cabins.

Silversea Cruise Line

Silversea cruises are yet another great choice for solo travelers. This cruise line is known for its social atmosphere and all exclusive luxury. Though they do not have specifically dedicated solo cabins, they do offer regular deals aimed at older adults cruising alone. The smaller size of the Silversea ships allows for a more intimate setting than you might find with a larger ship. Silversea has a relatively high percentage of solo travelers who are open to getting to know new people and participating in activities together.

Viking Cruise Line

Viking Ocean Cruises attract mostly an over 50 clientele, and this cruise line tailors experiences to this demographic. The luxurious ships are on a smaller scale, with only 930 passenger capacity. Designed with sophisticated decor and inclusive value, your cruise fare includes everything including excursions and specialty dining and tips. Viking cruises for senior singles offer plenty of opportunities to mix and mingle with other passengers. Keep your eyes open for their special deals where there are no single supplements on selected ocean and river sailings.

What Our Readers Say About Cruises for Single Seniors Cruises

Singles senior cruises are well-regarded by many travelers. They offer a unique opportunity to socialize and make connections with like-minded individuals in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. However, understand that while these cruises for single 50+ individuals receive positive feedback from many travelers, individual experiences can vary. The enjoyment of a cruise depends on personal preferences, the cruise line, the destinations, and the overall dynamics of the group on board. Reading specific reviews and researching the cruise line’s offerings can help in choosing a cruise that aligns with individual preferences. We also recommend working closely with an experienced travel agent to help narrow down the options for you.

One last piece of advice: Go on the cruise with an open mind with the intention of making new friends. It’s nice if you make a love connection while cruising, but it may not happen, so it’s important to manage your expectations. That way, if you do meet someone special, you will be pleasantly surprised. And if not, you won’t be disappointed.

Here are some quotes from our readers who traveled on a single seniors’ cruise:

“The singles cruise was an amazing experience! I made lifelong friends and had so much fun exploring new destinations together.”

 

“As a solo traveler, I was hesitant at first, but the friendly and inclusive atmosphere on the cruise made me feel right at home.”

 

“The cruise offered a perfect balance of exciting activities and leisure time. I never felt bored or overwhelmed.”

 

“Being on a singles cruise allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and create unforgettable memories with a wonderful group of people.”

 

“The cruise staff did an excellent job of organizing activities and excursions, making sure everyone had a great time.”

 

“The best part was that I didn’t have to worry about planning anything. The cruise took care of everything, and I could just relax and enjoy.”

 

“I appreciated the sense of community on the ship. It was so easy to strike up conversations and form connections with other travelers.”

Enjoy Your Singles Only Cruises

So, is a singles cruise for you? A great variety of wonderful options for cruising alone are available on the different cruise lines. Cruises that cater to seniors over 50 comes in all shapes and sizes. They travel to destinations all over the world, wherever you might want to go. If you choose a cruise that aligns with your interests, you’ll likely be surrounded by like-minded individuals, increasing the chances of making meaningful connections. And the relaxed and vacation-like atmosphere on a cruise can make it easier to approach and get to know others. It’s possible to find a romantic partner on your cruise, but if not, perhaps you will return home with some new friends. Either way, a singles-only cruise is a fantastic stress-free way to have a memorable vacation.

We encourage you to work with a seasoned travel agent to find the best option for you. Most travel agents do not charge a fee; they are paid by commission by the cruise lines. Good travel agents with years of experience personally can recommend the best ship to meet your specific needs, wants, and budget.

FAQ

What are some benefits of going on a cruise as a single person over 50?

Going on a cruise as a single person over 50 offers many benefits. For example, it’s a stress-free way to travel. You’ll find social opportunities to make new friends during both onboard and off-board activities. And you’ll return home with lifetime memories of unique experiences.

How can I find and choose the best options for unattached people over 50?

We recommend working with an experienced travel agent who is familiar with the pros and cons of the different cruise lines and specific ships. You can also do research online and read the reviews.

Do single people meet on cruises?

Yes! Most people traveling solo are open to meeting new people. A cruise is a relaxed environment that people say makes it easier to talk to people you don’t know. Whether or not you will find a romantic connection is another story. You may, but you may not. Go with the expectation of making new friends and if you find something more, that’s great.

Are there any special activities or events on these cruises for solo travelers?

Absolutely! These cruises for 50plus individuals offer plenty of opportunities for singles to meet.

Can I request a roommate to share a cabin on this type of cruise?

Yes! Many of the cruise lines offer a roommate matching service.

Are there any safety considerations for singles on cruises?

Yes, Safety first! Here are a few recommendations to stay safe when traveling alone on a cruise. A single person should exercise caution with belongings in public areas. We recommend drinking responsibly if you consume alcohol. Excessive drinking can make you more vulnerable to accidents or risky situations. Consider making friends with fellow travelers and using the buddy system, especially when exploring ports or on excursions.

What is the typical age range on these cruises?

There really is no typical age range for singles on these cruises. The different ships cater to different age groups. Some of the trips are geared toward 30-year-olds, others for 50 or 60-year-olds. You’ll want to research which ship draws people in your age group before booking.