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Writer's pictureAngie - Your Guide

How Old Do You Have to be? Book & Take a Cruise Solo!

lido deck on cruise ship

While most young adults are busy juggling school or kicking off their careers, a growing number are choosing to break free from the norm. They're setting sail on solo adventures, exploring new horizons one cruise at a time. This trend of young adults seeking independent travel experiences is skyrocketing, and cruising alone is becoming an increasingly popular choice. But how old do you need to be to take the plunge into this exhilarating world of solo cruising?


A Minimum age requirement can stop your adventure before you even begin to plan. Knowing which cruise lines are the first step in planning your adventure.


Perfect beach to visit on a cruise
Perfect beach to visit on a cruise

How Old Do You Have to be: Book & Take a Cruise Solo!

Navigating the waters of age requirements can be as tricky as steering a ship through a storm. Fortunately, we're here to help with a detailed breakdown of various cruise lines' policies on solo cruising. The main reason I have found deals with legal drinking age. Alcoholic beverages play a huge role in age requirements. Cruise lines based in other areas of the world have different views on drinking, and that is proven since some of the cruise lines mentioned below are European.


  • Disney Cruise Line requires solo travelers to be at least 18 years of age. While Disney may seem like a family-focused brand, they welcome young adults ready to explore the magic of the seas alone.

  • Princess Cruises also sets the minimum age at 18. However, if you're under 21, you'll need written consent from a parent or legal guardian to book your cruise.

  • MSC Cruises welcomes travelers aged 18 year olds and above, offering a rich blend of European culture and adventure.

  • Carnival Cruises allows solo adventurers aged 21 and older to cruise independently. If you're 18 to 20, a responsible adult must accompany you, but you'll still have plenty of opportunities for solo exploration.

  • Royal Caribbean Cruise Line is known for its vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, and young adults aged 21 and up are free to roam on their own. Those aged 18 to 20 need an adult chaperone.

  • Norwegian Cruise Line is another choice for 18 and older travelers looking to indulge in the freedom of solo cruising.

  • Celebrity Cruises requires solo cruisers to be 21 or older, catering to those who appreciate a luxurious experience.

  • Virgin Voyages, known for its stylish and modern approach, welcomes solo travelers 18 and older, creating a chic and social atmosphere perfect for mingling.

  • P&O Cruises is open to solo adventurers aged 18 and up, offering a quintessentially British experience on the waves.

  • Windstar Cruises caters to those 21 and older, perfect for those seeking a more intimate and exclusive cruise environment.

  • Holland America allows travelers 21 and up to enjoy its sophisticated offerings independently.


Party on a dance floor
Party on a dance floor

Understanding these policies helps ensure a smooth-sailing adventure tailored to your desires and age. Something I find odd with many cruise lines, that if you are under the age of 21, but have proof of marriage to your cabin mate, you can cruise. I find this very odd, since they are under the legal drinking age also.


If you have any doubt, double check with a travel agent. They can help you figure out which cruise line is best for you, as age restrictions vary between cruise lines. 

If you are not going as a solo, there are ways to make it work where a person under the age of 21 can be in a separate cabin. For example, adjoining rooms are common on cruise lines, so if you travel with family, you can have an adjoining room, so you are still close to parents or legal guardian but have some separation. This will take some work with the travel agent and the cruise line but can be done. I have booked a cruise on Carnival Cruise line where the parents of a 20-year-old stayed across the hall, in his own cabin, as there were not any adjoining cabins on the ship.


strawberry daiquiri
strawberry daiquiri

Advantages of Solo Cruising for Young Adults

Imagine waking up to the gentle sway of the ocean, with the freedom to shape your day just as you please. Solo cruising offers young adults the unique opportunity to forge their own path, meet fellow travelers, and bask in tailored experiences designed to inspire independence and personal growth. 


One of the standout benefits of solo cruising is the chance to meet new people. Cruise lines often host meet-ups and social events specifically for solo travelers, fostering connections and friendships with like-minded adventurers from all over the world. These gatherings are a great way to share stories, exchange tips, and even plan excursions together. This is the perfect opportunity to meet new friends from all around the world.


Additionally, many cruise lines offer solo cabins or single occupancy deals to accommodate independent travelers without breaking the bank. For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line has Studio Staterooms that waive the dreaded single supplement fee, while other lines offer special rates for solo cruisers.


Unfortunately, there are still cruise lines that charge a double occupancy rate for a cabin, which make it not affordable for a solo traveler. So be aware of this when booking.

Personal stories from those who've taken the plunge further illuminate the allure of solo cruising. Jane, a 25-year-old from San Francisco, recalls her solo cruise as a pivotal moment in her life. "I met amazing people, explored new cultures, and learned so much about myself," she shares. These testimonials reveal the empowering nature of solo cruising and its potential to transform perspectives.



Carnival Cruise Ship in the Bahamas
Carnival Cruise Ship in the Bahamas

Tips for First-Time Solo Cruisers

Getting ready for your maiden voyage as a solo cruiser? Here are some practical tips to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.


Choosing the Right Cruise Line and Itinerary: Consider what type of experience you're seeking. Are you drawn to vibrant atmospheres with endless activities, or do you prefer a more relaxed and intimate setting? Research different cruise lines and itineraries to find the perfect match for your style and interests. Pick a Caribbean cruise for proximity to the United States if this is your first cruise. Or picking a shorter, 4-day cruise as a test for a solo traveler who hasn't done a cruise before. Remember length of cruise affects the price of cruise as longer cruises tend to be more expensive. Just in case you are not a fan, you will not feel like you wasted a lot of money and time on a vacation you didn't enjoy. The first day of the cruise there will be solo meet and greets, where you can meet other single travelers. 


Packing Essentials: When packing for your solo cruise, focus on versatility and comfort. Bring clothing appropriate for both casual and formal occasions, as well as comfortable shoes for exploring onshore destinations. Don't forget essential travel documents, chargers, and any necessary medications. Remember sunscreen if in the Caribbean, you don't want the sun to ruin the memories of your perfect day on the beach.


Staying Safe and Making the Most of Your Experience: Safety is paramount when traveling solo. Keep your valuables secure, be mindful of your surroundings, and stay connected with friends or family back home. Take advantage of onboard activities, shore excursions, and social events to make the most of your adventure. All cruise lines have information on all the ports of call you will be visiting on the cruise. Ask for the information while on the cruise ship or join a tour or shore excursion. These tend to be safer than traveling on your own in a foreign port. If interested in a tour but don't want the prices of a shore excursion from a cruise line check out Viator or GetYourGuide.


Real-Life Experiences

Hearing firsthand from those who've embarked on solo cruises can provide invaluable insights and inspiration. Jack, a 22-year-old solo traveler, describes his experience as "liberating." He recalls wandering through the ancient streets of Rome and dancing the night away with newfound friends at one of the cruise ships parties.


Challenges faced by solo travelers include navigating unfamiliar environments and overcoming initial feelings of loneliness. However, these experiences often lead to personal growth and confidence. Emma, a 20-year-old solo cruiser, shares, "Starting out, I was nervous. But by the end, I felt like a seasoned traveler."


Testimonials from solo cruisers paint a vivid picture of their adventures, offering advice and encouragement for those contemplating a similar journey. Their stories remind us that the seas are filled with endless possibilities and that the rewards of solo cruising far outweigh any initial apprehensions.


Conclusion

In summary, solo cruising offers young adults an unparalleled opportunity to explore the world on their own terms. From the freedom to craft personalized itineraries to the chance to forge meaningful connections with fellow travelers, the benefits of solo cruising are vast and varied. Personally, one of the best cruises I have ever taken was as a solo cruiser, and I can imagine how great it would have been if I had taken the cruise in my early 20’s as a solo.


For those eager to take the plunge, the world of solo cruising awaits with open arms and endless horizons. I personally love being a single traveler on many of my cruises. Whether you're drawn to bustling cities or tranquil beaches, there's a cruise out there perfectly suited to your desires. With a little bit of planning you are bound to have a great time on cruise as a young solo traveler.


We invite you to share your thoughts and questions about solo cruising in the comments below. Your insights and experiences can help inspire others to set sail on their own thrilling adventures.


Dive into the world of solo cruising and discover the joy of charting your own course on the open sea.




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