The 10 Best Cruises For Single Seniors In 2025 And 2026

Cruises offer a carefree way to travel and see the world with curated itineraries, ease of planning and attractive perks like only having to unpack once. You'll also be with like-minded travelers in one place, including other solo adventurers (a segment of the travel industry that is on the rise). Now more than ever, older single adults are taking trips with friends or traveling solo to meet new people – something that's easy to do on a cruise.

U.S. News compiled this list of the best cruises for seniors over 60, taking into consideration various travel styles and interests. Some cruisers may be as active in their 80s as they were in their 30s and want all the action-packed fun of a mega cruise ship, while others may prefer the laid-back vibe and immersive cultural experiences aboard a small luxury vessel or river cruise ship.

It's best to check each cruise line's policy before booking a senior singles cruise if you have mobility issues or special needs. While all cruise lines welcome passengers who need accommodations – we've mentioned a few examples here – what they offer can vary, depending on the cruise line and the ship.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's current fleet of 14 ships sails to more than 300 destinations worldwide, offering many options for solo seniors to see the world. The line's 15th vessel and the newest Edge-class ship, Celebrity Xcel, is set to debut in November 2025. On the 3,260-guest (double occupancy) Edge-class vessels – Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Xcel – seniors can book one of the 184-square-foot solo staterooms with infinite verandas, which feature a sitting area with a retractable window to bring the outdoors inside.

Accessible staterooms are available on Celebrity Cruises ships, and some offer balconies that accommodate wheelchairs. The line can also customize the cabins for seniors with hearing or sight special needs. In addition, Celebrity can arrange for assistance with transfers from the airport to the pier, help guests with boarding, and assist with other services for seniors with mobility issues. Cruisers will also have a selection of accessible excursions for days in port.

Celebrity hosts get-togethers for single cruisers, including the new Solo Travelers' Gathering and Dinner, led by the Activity Team. The dinner is an ideal way to meet new friends on the ship – and there will be a solos' dinner table in the dining room every evening thereafter. If you choose assigned seating, you'll have the same table with the same dinner companions every evening. Another great way to meet other solo seniors is to take a cooking class, attend a wine tasting or participate in additional activities around the ship, such as fitness classes, guided meditation sessions, lectures and more. Top destinations for solo seniors include Alaska, the Norwegian fjords, Scandinavia, Hawaii, Tahiti and Bora Bora, the Galápagos, and the Caribbean.

Viking

Viking's river, ocean and expedition cruises are popular with solo seniors interested in educational experiences, history, art, cultural immersion and soft adventure. The adults-only cruise line (age 18 and older) offers guests light-filled and modern Scandinavian-designed ships with quiet spaces for reading, relaxing, listening to music and socializing. You'll find some of the same cozy public spaces and dining venues on the ocean and expedition vessels, such as the two-story Explorers' Lounge at the bow of the ship, The Library, The Living Room, The Nordic Spa, Mamsen's, the World Café, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and more.

Viking's longer ocean itineraries are ideal for solo seniors who have extended time to travel. The new 22-day Icons of the Viking Age voyage sails from Bergen, Norway, to Stockholm. On this trip, guests will visit eight countries, highlighting picturesque fjords and harbors, ancient fortresses and castles, and iconic Scandinavian capital cities. For a longer sailing, Grand Journeys range from 27 to 170 days. The longest itinerary, the Viking World Voyage III, sails from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Stockholm, starting in December 2026.

If you're sailing on one of the line's 930- or 988-passenger all-veranda ocean vessels, your mostly all-inclusive fares will include spacious accommodations; free Wi-Fi access; specialty dining; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; a complimentary shore excursion in every port; access to The Nordic Spa and Fitness Center; and other amenities.

While Viking doesn't host frequent get-togethers for solo travelers or offer solo staterooms, the relaxed atmosphere and open dining policy make it easy to meet other cruisers. The line also offers special solo fares on select voyages. It's important to note that guests with mobility issues must travel with an able-bodied companion who can help them get around on board and ashore. You're advised to notify the line in advance of any disability that will require special attention.

Crystal

Crystal is an excellent option for solo seniors interested in a luxury cruise experience. Its two intimate ships, which accommodate just 606 or 740 guests (based on double occupancy), feature well-appointed single guest rooms with ocean views. These beautiful, 215-square-foot accommodations were redesigned in 2023 and have the same layout as the double guest rooms. Single guests will enjoy a living area with a television and sofa; a queen-size bed; a walk-in shower; and 24-hour butler service.

All-inclusive amenities offered on Crystal sailings include gourmet dining (such as dinner at chef Nobu's restaurant Umi Uma), a welcome bottle of Champagne, 24-hour in-suite dining, and complimentary wine and spirits. You can also get assistance with unpacking and packing. In addition, there are luxurious linens, a pillow menu, free standard Wi-Fi access, Ortigia bath products, Etro bathrobes and other perks. Crystal offers select cruises with no single supplement, including some voyages where solo guests can reserve a double guest room or Aquamarine Suite without the additional fee.

On every cruise, singles can attend get-togethers and join the dining event Table for Eight. In addition, the line's Ambassador Hosts provide solo travelers with company for dinner, dancing and other evening activities. Cruisers can also engage in enrichment programming with renowned guest speakers and industry experts, learn ballroom dancing, and attend photography classes. If you're a golfer, most sailings have a PGA pro available, so you can practice your swing with professional advice at the golf driving nets and putt at the onboard putting greens.

Single seniors will also appreciate a well-stocked library, Broadway-themed performances, sail-away cocktail parties, musical tribute shows, a luxurious spa and more. Some of the sailings with a waived single supplement in 2025 include three- to 16-night itineraries in Southern Europe, Northern Europe and North America, on both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line is a longtime favorite of mature cruisers and an excellent option for solo senior travelers. Its single staterooms, measuring 127 to 172 square feet, feature a full-size bed with a Euro-top mattress, a bathroom with a shower, a window with an ocean view, and other amenities. Holland America also has special offers for AARP members that give onboard credits for your cruise.

On every sailing, there's a party for solo cruisers where you can meet other seniors with similar interests. The line also has social hostesses who curate special experiences for singles, especially women who are traveling on extended voyages. The hosts accompany guests to have dinner, attend shows and even go dancing. You'll also find many activities where you can meet other single seniors, including live musical performances around the ship, fitness classes and pickleball. When you're ready to head ashore, consider booking special interest excursions in partnership with National Geographic and the History Channel, or accessible tours if you have mobility issues.

Popular cruises for seniors traveling with Holland America include the line's Alaska cruises and cruisetours; the extended Grand Voyages, which visit exotic destinations around the globe; and the Legendary Voyages. These immersive itineraries feature iconic cities and tropical islands, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and some of the most beautiful places in the world.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line features solo staterooms across its fleet, all with private keycard access to the line's Studio Lounge. The lounge offers complimentary snacks, coffee and espresso throughout the day; solo guests will also have a 24-hour room service menu and other perks. The private space is perfect for meeting like-minded travelers and socializing in an intimate setting. Solo seniors on Norwegian can choose from studios and inside, ocean view or balcony cabins that are priced for one.

If you prefer an upscale retreat at sea but still want access to all the amenities and entertainment on a large vessel, splurge on a stateroom or suite in The Haven, the line's ship-within-a-ship concept. This exclusive space sits at the aft of select ships and offers luxurious accommodations, a private restaurant, two private bars, and an outdoor sundeck and pool. The classy vibe at The Haven will offer plenty of opportunities for mingling with other solo travelers and mature adults.

Singles can enjoy nightly meetups around the ship, which are posted in the onboard newsletter, Freestyle Daily. You can also meet other solo seniors during wine tastings, at fitness classes, in adults-only spaces like Spice H2O and Vibe Beach Club, and on excursions ashore. If you're sailing in the Caribbean aboard the line's newest ship and first Prima Plus class vessel – Norwegian Aqua, scheduled to debut in April 2025 – you can join fellow Prince fans (and other Gen Xers) at the immersive new production show, "Revolution: A Celebration of Prince," or check out the performance of Fleetwood Mac's "Rumors."

American Cruise Lines

Connecticut-based American Cruise Lines offers itineraries across the U.S. for single seniors who prefer to travel closer to home – making it one of the best river cruise lines. The line's current fleet of 21 ships accommodates between 90 and 180 guests, traversing waterways in 35 states. The U.S.-based itineraries are focused on American history and culture, featuring resident historians and knowledgeable guides. You'll find a wide selection of cruises ranging from five to 22 nights long that visit cities, towns and significant historical sites along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River, the Ohio River and America's Heartland. There are also cruises to the Chesapeake Bay, the Florida Keys, Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, as well as themed cruises and the extended 50-night Great United States Cruise adventure that journeys through 15 states.

American Cruise Lines offers single cabins with no supplement on every ship in the fleet, and most have a private balcony. These staterooms are generous in size; Single Balcony cabins on the American Heritage paddlewheeler measure 230 square feet. This ship sails along the Mississippi River and has a total of 18 solo staterooms. If you're sailing the Great Rivers of Florida or the Southeast Sea Islands cruises, you'll find spacious 280-square-foot Single Balcony staterooms on American Eagle (one of the line's 100-guest Coastal Cats).

The line hosts a meet-and-greet for solo cruisers at the beginning of the journey. The nightly cocktail party is also a great way to mingle with other single travelers – and the open seating policy encourages guests to join others for dinner in the dining room. The casual and intimate atmosphere, time spent together during onboard lectures, and excursions ashore create a welcoming environment for guests traveling alone. All-inclusive fares include accommodations; all meals and snacks; alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages; an enrichment package and entertainment; featured excursions in every port; all gratuities; a pre-cruise hotel stay; transfers to the ship; and more. All ships offer accessible rooms and elevators, and most public spaces are also accessible by wheelchair.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises is another excellent luxury option for single seniors, charging only a 25% single supplement on select voyages. Solo travelers can attend the Champagne Welcome Reception to meet other cruisers, and you'll find gentleman hosts on some voyages to greet guests traveling alone. It's easy to connect with people on Silversea's ships, which carry between 100 and 728 guests. You can strike up a conversation during pre-dinner cocktails or while watching the nightly entertainment, which may include karaoke or themed dance parties. You'll also meet like-minded seniors at afternoon lectures, in regional cooking classes at the S.A.L.T. Lab, at wellness and fitness programming, and during immersive excursions ashore.

Sailings with the special solo pricing include a 14-day expedition to five countries and 10 ports in French Polynesia – including Fiji, Tonga and the Samoan Islands – in May 2025 aboard the 254-guest (double occupancy) Silver Cloud. You can also book a 12-day transoceanic repositioning cruise on Silver Shadow (which accommodates 392 guests at double occupancy) from Barbados to Lisbon in March 2026. This sailing offers many days at sea to mingle with other single seniors. If Asia is on your bucket list, the 596-guest (double occupancy) Silver Moon will sail a 14-day voyage in October 2026 to 12 ports in Japan and South Korea.

All-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites; fine dining (some venues are an additional cost); alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages; butler service; included shore excursions; standard Wi-Fi in suites; and other amenities.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers many options for solo senior travelers – especially when sailing to Alaska. If mobility issues are a concern, rest assured that all of the line's ships are wheelchair-accessible, as are most of its destinations and excursions. On the ship, relax as you listen to calving glaciers and watch breaching whales from the comfort of your balcony stateroom. There are plenty of low-impact tours to enjoy ashore, such as scenic rail journeys through snowcapped mountains aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway and the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan.

If you have time to leisurely explore the world, consider a Princess Epic Voyage to sail off to far-flung destinations like Morocco, the Falkland Islands, Greenland, the South Pacific, Singapore or Australia. You can also book one segment of the line's world cruise – or stay on board for the entire 131-Day Circle Pacific journey. The lengthy voyage sails from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Los Angeles in January 2026 aboard the 2,000-guest (double occupancy) Coral Princess.

On any Princess cruise, solo travelers can participate in singles-only nights, cocktail parties, wine tastings, culinary demonstrations, destination-themed activities, dance classes, and fitness and yoga sessions. You can also meet fellow senior cruisers at The Sanctuary, an adults-only outdoor retreat (exact venues vary by ship). In addition, Princess offers themed voyages throughout the year where you can meet like-minded travelers, including The Love Boat Celebration at Sea, the Pacific Coast Food & Wine Cruise, and Jeff Corwin's Nature & Adventure Voyage to Alaska. The line advertises reduced single supplements on select voyages, and you can look for last-minute deals and other discounts on double occupancy fares.

Azamara

Azamara's four small ships, accommodating just 702 guests (double occupancy), offer an intimate and convivial atmosphere for seniors cruising solo. The line's itineraries include lesser-known ports larger ships can't reach – and they feature more late-night and overnight stays than other cruise lines. Solo travelers will find an extensive list of voyages throughout the year where single supplements are waived or discounted; destinations include South Africa, South America, French Polynesia, Bali and Western Australia, India and Sri Lanka, the Panama Canal, and more. Azamara is also offering a 25% solo supplement on its 2026 and 2027 world cruises.

The mostly all-inclusive fares cover a variety of dining venues; beer, wine and spirits throughout the day; the line's signature AzAmazing Evenings ashore; and the entertaining White Night Party. Azamara can accommodate travelers with special needs. The line requests that guests complete the Special Accommodations Form no later than 40 days before U.S. voyages or 80 days before all other sailings. Azamara also offers accessible shore excursions.

While on board, solo seniors will have fun with daily trivia, bingo, art and dance classes, enrichment programming and lectures by destination experts, Q&A sessions, and live music or karaoke in the Living Room. If you're looking for a place to chat with fellow guests over a pre-dinner cocktail, The Den is the perfect place to meet other solo cruisers. Azamara's loyalty program, Azamara Circle, also offers perks for singles with double points on solo staterooms, a loyalty party where you can meet other guests, and an onboard host during your voyage.

Avalon Waterways

Consider booking a European river cruise if you want to sail the picturesque waterways of France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Croatia and other countries with like-minded seniors and retirees. Avalon Waterways also offers cruises along the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, on the Nile in Egypt, and along the Amazon River in Peru. The line waives its single supplement for most sailings in Europe and on select voyages in Southeast Asia. Avalon also reserves rooms specifically for solo cruisers on every departure, including its spacious Panorama Suites.

Avalon's ships range in size, accommodating between 38 guests on the Mekong River and 166 guests in Europe. It's easy to meet other single travelers, especially on special interest cruises. The line offers voyages for wine aficionados, culinary enthusiasts, music and jazz fans, garden and nature lovers, and history buffs. In addition, Europe is known for its spectacular Christmas markets and the river ships that visit them along the Danube, Rhine and Main rivers.

When it comes to dining, you can choose to sit at a table for two, four, six or eight. You'll also have opportunities to engage with other single seniors during the line's Classic, Active and Discovery excursions, or during yoga and fitness classes on the ship. There are also plenty of opportunities for mingling and socializing at the pre-dinner happy hour and during the evening's entertainment.

Two 2025 cruises with waived single supplements in Europe include the eight-day Burgundy & Provence itinerary in France along the Rhone and Saone rivers and the 10-day Romantic Rhine cruise from Lucerne, Switzerland, to Amsterdam. Cruise fares include accommodations with river views; all meals, snacks and afternoon tea; a complimentary evening happy hour; local wine, beer and soda served at lunch and dinner; sparkling wine at breakfast; complimentary room service; included Avalon Choice excursions; wellness activities; and other amenities.

Gwen Pratesi is an avid traveler who started cruising in her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including small luxury and expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing yachts, mega cruise ships, and an 18-cabin river boat in Vietnam and Cambodia. Pratesi has covered the travel and culinary industries for more than 16 years and writes for several major publications, including U.S. News & World Report. She used her personal experience at sea and extensive research to write this piece.