Single Supplements Explained
Why a cabin for one can cost nearly the price of two.
Get Free Solo Cruise QuotesThe single supplement is the reason many people think they cannot afford to cruise alone. Understanding how it works is the first step to paying less of it.
How Cruise Fares Are Built
Cruise prices are quoted per person, assuming two guests share a cabin. The line has budgeted for two people in that room: two fares, and two people spending money on drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions and the spa. When one person occupies it, the line still has the same cabin to clean and the same space to fill, but only half the guests. The single supplement is how it closes that gap.
Lines express the supplement in different ways. Some quote a percentage of the per-person fare, some show a separate solo price, and some simply show you the total for one guest when you search. The result is the same: a premium for having the cabin to yourself.
What the Lines Say
| Line | What it publishes about solo pricing |
|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | Solo guests in a standard stateroom generally pay 200% of the category rate; studio staterooms are priced for one |
| Cunard | A sole-occupancy supplement that typically ranges from 175% to 200% of the per-person fare, subject to availability |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Dedicated solo staterooms priced for one guest |
| Holland America Line | Dedicated solo ocean-view staterooms with no single supplement on its three Pinnacle-class ships |
These are the lines’ own descriptions as of late 2026; the percentage you actually pay depends on the sailing, the cabin and current promotions. Our solo cabins page covers the dedicated single rooms in more detail.
Where the Supplement Bites Hardest
- Peak dates — school holidays, festive weeks and the best months in seasonal regions, when lines can easily fill every berth.
- Larger cabins — a suite at a full supplement adds up quickly.
- Short, popular sailings — weekend cruises from busy homeports tend to sell well with couples and groups.
- New ships — strong demand in their first seasons leaves little reason to discount.
How to Read a Solo Quote
When you compare prices for one, compare the total you will pay, not the headline per-person number. Check whether the quote shows the full cabin price for one guest, whether taxes and fees are listed separately, and whether any onboard credit or included extras in a promotion are given to a solo guest at the same level as a couple. Two quotes with the same cruise fare can end up hundreds of dollars apart once gratuities, drinks packages and Wi-Fi are added for one person.
Because solo pricing changes often, our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise re-check fares for solo clients before final payment and can tell you if a better solo option has appeared.
Single Supplement FAQ
Is the single supplement charged on taxes and port fees too?
Practices vary. Taxes, fees and port expenses are often charged per person, so a solo traveler may pay them once rather than twice, but check the breakdown on your quote rather than assuming.
Why don’t cruise lines just charge for the cabin?
Because much of a cruise line’s income comes from what passengers spend on board. An empty second berth is a guest who is not buying drinks, tours or spa treatments, and the supplement helps make up for it.
Get a Clear Price for One
Send us the sailing you are considering. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will show the full solo price, compare it with any solo cabins on board and look for reduced-supplement offers.
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