Solo cruising on the rise

Monday, Mar 10, 2025 0

An annual survey from cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has revealed that single travellers now make up 5% of the cruise market. The findings were drawn from a survey of over 8000 cruise.co.uk and seascanner.co.uk customers, highlighting key trends in the cruise landscape.

The research also found that solo cruisers are highly likely to recommend the experience, with 70% stating they would encourage friends, family or colleagues to embark on a solo sailing.

When it comes to booking decisions, solo cruisers have similar priorities compared to those sailing with companions. Price and itinerary ranked as the most important factors for the majority of both sets of travellers, ranging between 60% and 70%. Cabin selection and onboard facilities are more of a concern to around 50% of those polled.

Results from respondents when asked: “When booking your next cruise, how important or unimportant are each of the following factors to you?”

	Price		Itinerary		Cabin		Onboard Facilities
	Solo	Non-solo	Solo	Non-solo	Solo	Non-solo	Solo	Non-solo
Important (9-10)	69%	65%	63%	62%	49%	54%	45%	52%
Neutral (6-8)	24%	29%	29%	32%	40%	39%	43%	42%
Less Important (1-5)	7%	6%	8%	6%	11%	7%	12%	6%

Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “We’re seeing more solo travellers embracing the cruise experience, and it’s clear that affordability and the destinations visited are key drivers for this market. As the popularity of cruise continues to grow across the board, we expect cruise lines to further cater to this growing segment, with more tailored offerings and competitive pricing.”