Cruises are no longer just for couples or big family groups! More and more solo travellers are setting sail each year, drawn by the chance to explore multiple destinations in one trip while meeting like-minded people along the way. But what if you want to do this sustainably?
The good news is that the cruise industry is evolving! Many lines are now catering to independent travellers with dedicated solo cabins and events, while also making big strides in reducing their environmental impact. Here’s how you can enjoy a solo cruise that’s kinder to the planet:
Not every cruise line is solo-friendly, so it pays to do a little research. Some of the best options include:
Booking a cruise line that recognises solo travellers ensures you’ll feel comfortable and included from day one!
Cruise ships launching in recent years have been designed with sustainability in mind. These vessels often use cleaner fuels like LNG (liquefied natural gas), advanced wastewater treatment systems, and energy-efficient lighting and heating.
1. Choose a cruise line that supports solo travellers!
Not every cruise line is solo-friendly, so it pays to do a little research. Some of the best options include:
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Known for its award-winning studio cabins designed specifically for solo guests, complete with a dedicated lounge where you can socialise with fellow travellers.
- P&O Cruises: Offers single-occupancy cabins and often has hosted dinners and meet-ups for solo passengers.
- Holland America Line: Great for more immersive cultural itineraries, with plenty of opportunities to meet others through group excursions.
Booking a cruise line that recognises solo travellers ensures you’ll feel comfortable and included from day one!
2. Opt for newer, greener ships!
Cruise ships launching in recent years have been designed with sustainability in mind. These vessels often use cleaner fuels like LNG (liquefied natural gas), advanced wastewater treatment systems, and energy-efficient lighting and heating.
Choosing a cruise line with a modern fleet can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your trip. Expedition and small-ship cruises are also worth considering, as they typically visit fewer ports at a time and have less environmental impact.
One of the best things about cruising is the ability to visit multiple destinations in a single holiday. But this can mean high emissions if your itinerary includes long distances between ports. To travel more sustainably, look for:
3. Select environmentally-conscious itineraries!
One of the best things about cruising is the ability to visit multiple destinations in a single holiday. But this can mean high emissions if your itinerary includes long distances between ports. To travel more sustainably, look for:
- Itineraries with fewer sea days so ships aren’t travelling long distances at high speeds.
- Regional cruises that stay within one area (e.g. the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, or the Caribbean).
- Extended stays in port, which reduces fuel use and allows you to immerse yourself in the destination.
These itineraries aren’t just better for the planet - they’re often more enjoyable for solo travellers who want to connect with local communities.
Packing less isn’t just convenient, it’s also eco-friendly. A lighter load on the ship means less fuel consumption. Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched into different outfits, and bring reusable items like a water bottle, shopping bag and bamboo cutlery to cut down on single-use plastics.
When you’re in port, try to book excursions with local guides or companies, and buy souvenirs from independent businesses. This helps ensure your money supports the communities you’re visiting. Many solo travellers find that these smaller, authentic experiences also make it easier to connect with locals and other passengers.
Even with the most sustainable approach, cruising still carries an environmental impact - you might want to consider offsetting your emissions through verified carbon offset programmes. Many cruise lines now offer this option when you book. You can also make small but meaningful changes onboard (reuse towels, avoid unnecessary printing, and dine in restaurants that source ingredients locally where possible).
Travelling solo doesn’t mean compromising on your values. With the right cruise line and itinerary, you can explore the world, meet new people, and tread a little lighter on the planet. Start by browsing the latest solo cruises to find a sailing that suits your style!
4. Pack sustainably and travel light!
Packing less isn’t just convenient, it’s also eco-friendly. A lighter load on the ship means less fuel consumption. Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched into different outfits, and bring reusable items like a water bottle, shopping bag and bamboo cutlery to cut down on single-use plastics.
5. Support local communities!
When you’re in port, try to book excursions with local guides or companies, and buy souvenirs from independent businesses. This helps ensure your money supports the communities you’re visiting. Many solo travellers find that these smaller, authentic experiences also make it easier to connect with locals and other passengers.
6. Offset and reduce where possible!
Even with the most sustainable approach, cruising still carries an environmental impact - you might want to consider offsetting your emissions through verified carbon offset programmes. Many cruise lines now offer this option when you book. You can also make small but meaningful changes onboard (reuse towels, avoid unnecessary printing, and dine in restaurants that source ingredients locally where possible).
Ready to plan your solo and sustainable cruise?
Travelling solo doesn’t mean compromising on your values. With the right cruise line and itinerary, you can explore the world, meet new people, and tread a little lighter on the planet. Start by browsing the latest solo cruises to find a sailing that suits your style!
