If you want to travel alone and not share a cabin, you can pay either a flat rate for the cabin or a single ‘supplement’ if you occupy a double cabin. Some lines charge a fixed amount – US$250, for instance – as a supplement, no matter what the cabin category, ship, itinerary, or length of cruise. Single supplements, or solo occupancy rates, vary between lines, and sometimes between ships.
Single-occupancy cabins are often among the most expensive, when compared with the per-person rates for double occupancy (because single cabins are at a premium they are unlikely to be discounted). From the point of view of the crew, it takes as much time to clean a single cabin as it does a double. And, of course, there is only one tip instead of two. Note, however, that in most cabins built for double occupancy, there is typically only one personal safe.
Guaranteed Singles Rates
Although some singles travel with friends or family, many others like to travel alone, and cruise lines have established several programmes to accommodate them.
One is the ‘Guaranteed Single’ rate, which provides a set price without having to be concerned about which cabin to choose. Some cruise lines guarantee singles’ rates, but the line and not the passenger allocates the cabin. If the line does not find a roommate, the single passenger may get the cabin to himself/herself at no extra charge.
Guaranteed Share Programmes
A ‘Guaranteed Share’ programme allows you to pay the normal double-occupancy rate, but the cruise line will find another passenger of the same sex to share the double cabin with you. Some cruise lines do not advertise a guaranteed-share programme in their brochures but will often try to accommodate such bookings, particularly when demand for space is light. You could book at a guaranteed share basis rate only to find that you end up with a cabin to yourself. Cruise lines can change such things at short notice, so check with your travel agent for the latest rates and conditions.
Cruising Holidays for Single Women
Any single woman can take a cruise knowing she is going to be as safe – if not safer – than she would be in any major vacation destination, but that does not mean that a cruise ship is a totally safe, completely hassle-free environment. Common sense should be the rule. Undoubtedly though, cruising is a great way to relax, and if you are seeking that special someone, cruising somehow brings people closer together.
There is always someone to talk to, be they couples or other singles, and cruising is not a ‘meat market’ where you are always under observation. The easiest way to meet other singles, however, is to participate in scheduled activities.
In the dining room, ask the restaurant manager to seat you with other singles, or a mix of singles and couples. Single black women should note that there is often a dearth of single black men for dancing or socializing with (they simply have not discovered cruising yet).
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