Holland America Line
According to cruise review site CruiseCritic.com, Holland America caters to solo riders better than any of the other major cruise lines. In addition to offering many activities that don't require partners, as of 2010, they are also the only cruise line left that provides a roommate-matching service---you can match up with another guest of the same sex and lock yourself in to a maximum double-occupancy rate. When you are out of your cabin and ready to mingle, be sure to take advantage of the culinary programs that are designed to help you meet others.
Holland America Line
877-932-4259
www.hollandamerica.com
Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines' average amount of single riders is about 5 percent. With average capacities of 1,500 to 3,000 guests per ship, you can expect about 75 to 150 of those to be single riders. Although this isn't an extremely large number, Carnival fares better than some of its competitors in this category. Carnival doesn't offer a matching service, however, so it may be best to travel with a roommate if it all possible.
The plethora of activities aboard ensures that even as a solo guest you won't be bored. You can enjoy a drink at one of the many bars, or spend a relaxing afternoon laying out near the pool. There are also many physical activities such as a "rock" climbing and basketball courts, which are available on many Carnival cruises.
Carnival Cruise Lines
1-888-CARNIVAL
www.carnival.com
Luxury Cruise Lines (Crystal and Silversea Lines)
Both Crystal and Silversea cruise lines are luxury lines that offer its solo guests some incentives over their competition. The Crystal line offers such amenities as assigned dining room seating, onboard singles' parties and gentlemen hosts for the single female riders. Savings for single riders are offered on the Silversea lines, as well as a smaller capacity on their ships (between 3 and 400).
Unfortunately, if you are younger, these cruise lines may not appeal to you---they tend to be popular amongst older and elderly women. This is not to say you can't enjoy these cruises as a younger guest, but you won't find too much of a party atmosphere there.
Crystal Cruises
888-722-0021
www.crystalcruises.com
Silversea Cruises
877-760-9052
www.silversea.com
