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Travelling solo doesn't mean travelling alone.
A PONANT cruise can be an excellent way to discover the world independently while enjoying the comfort, security and social atmosphere of a luxury small ship.
For solo travellers, cruising removes many of the logistical challenges of independent travel. Your accommodation, dining, transportation between destinations and much of the itinerary are organised for you, while shore excursions provide opportunities to explore with other guests.
PONANT's small-ship environment can also make it easier to meet fellow travellers without sacrificing privacy or independence.
And for solo travellers watching their budget, solo cruise deals and reduced single supplements can make a significant difference to the overall cost of travelling alone.
Whether you're dreaming of the Mediterranean, exploring Northern Europe, discovering Australia, travelling to the Arctic or Antarctica, or simply looking for a new adventure on your own terms, choosing the right itinerary can make all the difference.
This guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing a PONANT solo cruise, including solo-friendly destinations, single supplements, solo cruise deals and the best experiences for independent travellers.
| Factor | Solo Travel Guide |
|---|---|
| Best For | Independent travellers who want the convenience, comfort and social atmosphere of a luxury small-ship cruise |
| Key Consideration | Look for solo promotions, reduced single supplements and itineraries suited to independent exploration |
| Solo-Friendly Destinations | Europe, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and expedition destinations |
| Best Cruise Style | Small-ship cruising with shared excursions and a relaxed social environment |
| Look For | Solo offers, single cabins, reduced supplements, flexible dining and group shore excursions |
| Best For Meeting People | Small-ship itineraries with shared dining, excursions and onboard activities |
| Best For Independence | Itineraries offering a balance of organised excursions and free time ashore |
| Biggest Cost to Watch | Single supplement and the difference between solo and double-occupancy fares |
| Planning Tip | Compare the total solo fare rather than simply looking at the advertised cruise price |
Independent travel can be incredibly rewarding.
You choose where to go, what to see and how to spend your time.
But travelling alone can also mean organising flights, hotels, transfers, transportation, tours and meals by yourself.
A cruise simplifies much of this.
Once you board, your accommodation travels with you.
You can wake up in a new destination without packing and unpacking every day. Excursions can be arranged before you arrive. Meals are readily available. And there are other travellers around when you feel like socialising.
That combination of independence and convenience is one of the biggest attractions of solo cruising.
PONANT operates luxury small ships, creating an environment that can feel considerably more intimate than a large resort-style cruise ship.
For solo travellers, this can be an advantage.
With fewer guests, you're more likely to encounter familiar faces throughout the voyage.
You might meet someone at breakfast, join the same shore excursion, attend an onboard presentation and then share stories over dinner.
At the same time, you can always retreat to your own cabin or enjoy some quiet time when you want it.
It's social when you want it. Private when you need it.
For solo travellers, the advertised cruise fare doesn't always tell the whole story.
Cruise fares are often based on double occupancy, meaning the price assumes two people are sharing a cabin.
A solo traveller may therefore pay a single supplement.
This makes it particularly important to look for:
- Solo traveller promotions
- Reduced single supplements
- Single cabins
- Solo fares
- Special offers for individual travellers
- Last-minute solo deals
- Selected departures with reduced supplements
A cruise with a slightly higher advertised fare may actually represent better value if the single supplement is significantly lower.
👉 Learn more about PONANT Solo Cruise Deals →
The single supplement is the additional amount a solo traveller may pay when occupying a cabin designed and priced for two people.
For example, if a cruise is advertised at a per-person double-occupancy fare, the price assumes two guests are sharing the cabin.
A solo traveller may have to pay more to occupy the cabin alone.
However, the supplement isn't necessarily the same across every departure.
It can vary depending on:
- Ship
- Cabin category
- Itinerary
- Departure date
- Availability
- Promotional offer
- Cabin type
This is why comparing the total price for one traveller is more useful than simply comparing the advertised per-person fare.
Some destinations naturally lend themselves to solo travel.
They may have excellent infrastructure, easy-to-navigate ports, strong tourism networks, interesting shore excursions and plenty of opportunities to meet other travellers.
Others are attractive because travelling as part of a cruise expedition provides an easier and more secure way to reach remote locations.
| Destination | Why It Can Suit Solo Travellers | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean | Multiple destinations, varied excursions and opportunities for independent exploration | Culture, food, history and relaxed exploration |
| Northern Europe | Well-established tourism infrastructure and diverse cultural experiences | Culture, cities and scenic cruising |
| Japan | Excellent cultural experiences and an efficient travel environment | Culture, food, photography and history |
| Australia | Familiar environment for Australian travellers and diverse cruise experiences | Nature, culture, wildlife and adventure |
| New Zealand | Scenic destinations and organised excursions make exploration straightforward | Nature, photography and adventure |
| Arctic | Expedition cruising simplifies access to remote polar destinations | Wildlife, photography and expedition travel |
| Antarctica | Organised expedition travel removes much of the logistical complexity of visiting Antarctica | Wildlife, photography and adventure |
The Mediterranean can be particularly appealing to solo travellers because one cruise can introduce you to several countries and cultures.
You might visit historic cities, coastal villages, archaeological sites, markets and islands without having to repeatedly arrange your own transportation and accommodation.
For solo travellers who want a combination of culture, food, history and relaxation, Mediterranean itineraries are worth considering.
Explore more about PONANT Mediterranean Cruises →
Learn more about PONANT Mediterranean Solo Cruise Deals →
Northern Europe offers a combination of cultural destinations and spectacular scenery.
Depending on the itinerary, you may explore historic cities, coastal communities, islands and dramatic landscapes.
For solo travellers, organised excursions provide an easy way to explore while meeting other guests.
Explore more about PONANT Northern Europe Cruises →
Learn about PONANT Northern Europe Solo Cruise Deals →
Japan can be an excellent choice for travellers who want to experience a destination rich in culture and culinary traditions.
A cruise can provide a structured way to explore several regions while avoiding the need to change hotels between destinations.
For solo travellers interested in photography, culture, food and history, Japan can be particularly rewarding.
Explore more about PONANT Japan Cruises →
Learn more about PONANT Asia Solo Cruise Deals →
For Australian solo travellers, an Australia or New Zealand cruise can offer the familiarity of travelling closer to home while still delivering a sense of discovery.
Depending on the itinerary, experiences may include:
- Wildlife
- Nature
- Indigenous culture
- Scenic landscapes
- Food and wine
- Photography
- Adventure
These destinations can be particularly attractive to first-time solo cruisers.
👉 Explore more about PONANT Australia Solo Cruise Deals →
👉 Learn more about PONANT New Zealand Solo Cruise Deals →
For some solo travellers, the ultimate goal is expedition travel.
Antarctica and the Arctic can be difficult destinations to visit independently.
An expedition cruise removes much of that complexity.
Your ship becomes your base, while expedition teams organise landings, Zodiac excursions and educational activities.
This can make polar cruising especially appealing for solo adventurers who want to experience remote destinations without having to arrange the logistics themselves.
👉 Explore more about PONANT Arctic Solo Cruise Deals →
👉 Learn more about PONANT Antarctica Solo Cruise Deals →
Expedition cruises can be particularly social.
Guests often share common interests in wildlife, photography, nature, geography and adventure.
You may find yourself talking to fellow passengers after a Zodiac excursion, discussing photographs after a landing or sharing stories over dinner.
For solo travellers, these shared experiences can make it easier to form connections naturally.
👉 Learn more about PONANT Expedition Cruises
1. You choose the itinerary
You don't have to wait for someone else's holiday schedule.
2. You control your pace
Join an excursion or enjoy some quiet time.
3. You can meet new people
Shared dining and excursions create natural opportunities to socialise.
4. Your accommodation travels with you
There's no need to repeatedly pack and unpack.
5. Many logistics are handled for you
Transfers, accommodation and transportation between destinations are integrated into the cruise experience.
6. You can pursue your interests
Choose a voyage based on wildlife, photography, culture, food, adventure or another passion.
7. You retain your privacy
Solo cruising doesn't mean being surrounded by people all day. Your cabin provides your own private space.
One concern some first-time solo cruisers have is dining alone.
Small-ship cruising can make this less intimidating.
Shared dining areas create opportunities to meet other guests, while the intimate atmosphere means you're likely to encounter familiar faces throughout the voyage.
You can choose to be social when you want—or enjoy your own table and your own company when you prefer.
Shore excursions are another advantage for solo cruisers.
You don't necessarily need to find a private guide or arrange your own transportation.
Joining an organised excursion means you can explore with other guests while benefiting from local expertise.
Depending on the port and itinerary, you may also have free time to explore independently.
When comparing cruises, look for a good balance between organised activities and independent time.
| What to Compare | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Solo Promotion | Can significantly reduce the cost of travelling alone |
| Single Supplement | Can have a major impact on your total fare |
| Cabin Type | Consider location, size, amenities and whether a dedicated single cabin is available |
| Itinerary | Choose destinations that genuinely interest you |
| Excursions | Group excursions can make solo exploration easier and more social |
| Ship Size | Smaller ships can create a more intimate social environment |
| Free Time | Allows independent travellers to explore at their own pace |
There isn't one universal "best" solo cruise.
The right choice depends on what you want from your trip.
For the culture lover
Consider Mediterranean, European and Japanese itineraries.
For the photographer
Consider Antarctica, Arctic, Japan, Australia and Northern Europe.
For the wildlife enthusiast
Consider Antarctica, Arctic and Australia.
For the foodie
Consider France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Mediterranean and Japan.
For the adventurer
Consider Antarctica, Arctic and expedition destinations.
For a first solo cruise
Consider an itinerary with a comfortable balance of organised excursions, accessible destinations and free time.
Solo cruise promotions can be limited to selected departures, cabin categories or booking periods.
If you're flexible with your travel dates, you may have more opportunities to find a reduced single supplement or special solo offer.
When searching for a solo cruise deal, compare:
1. The total solo fare
Not just the advertised per-person price.
2. The single supplement
Look for departures where the supplement has been reduced.
3. Cabin availability
Solo-friendly cabins may be limited.
4. The promotion deadline
Some offers are available only for a specific booking period.
5. What is included
Compare the inclusions as well as the headline price.
💡 BlueSun Insight
Don't Assume Solo Travel Has to Cost Twice as Much
One of the biggest misconceptions about solo cruising is that travelling alone automatically means paying double. It doesn't always.
The key is to look for solo promotions, reduced single supplements and cabins designed or priced for individual travellers. This is why we recommend comparing the total cost of the cruise for one person rather than simply looking at the standard per-person fare. And don't overlook the value of what's included.
A solo traveller may otherwise have to pay separately for hotels, transfers, meals, excursions and transportation when travelling independently.
If your dates are flexible, tell us. We can look for departures where the solo pricing represents better value.
Safety is naturally an important consideration when travelling alone.
A cruise provides a structured travel environment, with your accommodation, transportation and many activities organised as part of the voyage.
On expedition itineraries, professional expedition teams and local guides accompany guests during many shore and wildlife experiences.
However, solo travellers should still follow normal travel precautions and the guidance provided by the cruise operator and expedition team.
When travelling independently before or after your cruise, allow additional time and make appropriate arrangements for transfers, accommodation and local transportation.
Many women choose solo travel because they value the freedom to create their own itinerary and travel at their own pace.
A small-ship cruise can offer a useful middle ground between completely independent travel and group travel.
You have your own private cabin, but you're surrounded by fellow travellers and can join organised excursions whenever you wish.
For women considering their first solo cruise, destinations with strong tourism infrastructure and well-organised shore excursions may be a comfortable starting point.
Solo travel isn't limited to younger adventurers.
For mature travellers, cruising can provide the freedom of independent travel with the convenience of having accommodation, dining and transportation organised.
Luxury expedition cruising can be particularly appealing because you can explore extraordinary destinations without sacrificing comfort.
For photography enthusiasts, solo travel offers a major advantage.
You don't have to compromise on how long you spend photographing a landscape, wildlife encounter or cultural scene.
A photography-focused cruise can provide opportunities to capture:
- Wildlife
- Landscapes
- Architecture
- Local people and culture
- Food
- Remote environments
- Sunrises and sunsets
- Polar scenery
Wildlife experiences can be particularly memorable when travelling solo.
Instead of having to find a private wildlife guide or organise transportation independently, an expedition cruise can bring you directly into remarkable natural environments.
You can then share the experience with fellow guests who are equally interested in wildlife.
👉 Learn more about PONANT Wildlife Cruises
Culture-focused itineraries can be excellent for solo travellers who enjoy learning about history, architecture, traditions and local communities.
Organised excursions provide companionship when you want it, while free time can allow you to explore independently.
Learn more about PONANT Cultural Cruises
Food is naturally social.
A market visit, wine tasting or regional food experience can be an easy way for solo travellers to connect with other guests.
If culinary discovery is one of your main interests, consider combining a solo cruise with our Food & Wine experience.
1. Decide where you want to go
Start with the destination rather than the deal.
2. Decide what you want to experience
Culture? Wildlife? Photography? Food? Adventure?
3. Look for solo offers
Check current promotions and reduced single supplements.
4. Compare the total fare
Calculate the actual price for one traveller.
5. Choose your cabin carefully
Consider location, size and amenities.
6. Check the excursions
Look for activities that appeal to you and provide opportunities to meet fellow travellers.
7. Ask an expert
A cruise specialist can help identify departures that offer better solo value.
| If You Want... | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Your first solo cruise | Mediterranean / Europe | Accessible destinations and varied shore experiences |
| Culture and history | Europe / Mediterranean / Japan | Rich cultural heritage and diverse excursions |
| Wildlife | Antarctica / Arctic / Australia | Exceptional wildlife and nature experiences |
| Photography | Antarctica / Arctic / Japan / Australia | Strong opportunities for landscapes, wildlife and culture |
| Food and wine | France / Italy / Spain / Mediterranean / Japan | Distinctive culinary traditions and regional specialties |
| Adventure | Antarctica / Arctic / Expedition destinations | Remote landscapes and active expedition experiences |
A solo cruise can offer an appealing combination of freedom, comfort, convenience and companionship.
You choose the destination.
You choose the experiences.
You decide when to socialise and when to enjoy your own space.
And because you're travelling with a small group of fellow guests, you have opportunities to make new connections along the way.
For solo travellers, the biggest consideration is often price.
That's why it's important to look beyond the standard cruise fare and search for solo cruise deals, reduced single supplements and solo-friendly departures.
The right promotion can turn a luxury cruise that initially appears expensive into a much more attractive option for one traveller.
👉 Read about our Choosing a Destination Guide →
Solo cruising can feel daunting at first, but it can also be one of the most rewarding ways to travel. Here are some frequently asked questions our PONANT experts have answered to help you plan your solo cruise with confidence.
Have a read through these FAQs, or reach out to us any time on 1300 799 758.
Yes. PONANT's small-ship environment can be well suited to solo travellers who want a combination of independence, privacy and opportunities to socialise with fellow guests.
PONANT may offer promotions that can benefit solo travellers, including selected offers or reduced single supplements. Availability and conditions vary by departure, cabin and booking period.
Cabin availability varies by ship and departure. Some voyages may offer cabin options or promotional pricing that are particularly suitable for solo travellers.
A single supplement is an additional amount that a solo traveller may pay when occupying a cabin priced for two people. The amount can vary depending on the ship, cabin, itinerary and departure.
Compare the total fare for one traveller, including the single supplement, rather than relying solely on the advertised per-person double-occupancy price. Flexible travel dates can also help you find better-value departures.
Mediterranean and European itineraries can be excellent for first-time solo travellers, while Japan, Australia, New Zealand, the Arctic and Antarctica can appeal to travellers looking for culture, nature, wildlife or expedition experiences.
Yes. An expedition cruise can make visiting Antarctica much easier for solo travellers because accommodation, transportation and expedition activities are organised as part of the voyage. It also provides opportunities to meet fellow travellers with similar interests.
It doesn't have to be. Shared excursions, dining areas, onboard presentations and small-ship activities provide natural opportunities to meet other guests. You can also enjoy your own private cabin and personal time.
If a particular departure offers attractive solo pricing or limited single-cabin availability, booking early can be worthwhile. However, last-minute promotions can sometimes provide opportunities for flexible travellers.
Yes. Organised shore excursions are one of the easiest ways for solo travellers to explore a destination while meeting other guests.
Depending on the destination and itinerary, there may be opportunities to explore independently during free time ashore. Always follow the cruise operator's guidance regarding departure times and recommended activities.
Consider the destination, itinerary, cabin, single supplement, total fare, shore excursions, ship size, amount of free time and current solo promotions.
Solo travel doesn't have to define your entire cruise experience.
You can combine travelling alone with the interests that matter most to you.
Wildlife
Discover remarkable animals and natural environments while sharing the experience with fellow expedition travellers.
Photography
Capture landscapes, wildlife, architecture and local life without having to compromise your photography interests.
Culture
Meet local communities and discover the history, heritage and traditions of the destinations you visit.
Food & Wine
Enjoy regional cuisine, markets, wine and culinary traditions while connecting with fellow food lovers.
Adventure
Add hiking, Zodiac excursions, kayaking and other active experiences to your solo journey.
Expedition
Travel to extraordinary destinations with an experienced expedition team and like-minded travellers.
Travelling alone gives you something incredibly valuable: freedom.
You don't have to wait for someone else's schedule.
You don't have to compromise on the destination.
And you don't have to give up luxury simply because you're travelling by yourself.
The challenge is finding the right cruise at the right price.
That's where our cruise specialists can help.
We can help you compare PONANT solo cruise deals, single supplements, cabins, destinations and itineraries to find options that match your travel style and budget.
Whether you're a first-time solo cruiser or an experienced independent traveller looking for your next adventure, let's find a journey that's right for you.
Your next adventure doesn't need a plus-one.
START PLANNING YOUR SOLO PONANT CRUISE TODAY
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