Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has been named 'Best for Solo Travellers' at the Cruise Critic UK Awards for the second consecutive year, and is removing single supplements on selected sailings to make solo cruising more accessible. The small-ship operator now offers 157 purpose-built solo cabins across its three ships, from interior rooms to balcony suites.
Social atmosphere and no single supplement
The cruise line's smaller ships are designed to foster a sociable atmosphere. Solo guests can attend welcome drinks, dedicated meet-ups, and shared dining tables. Single supplements have been scrapped on selected regional sailings, and for the newly launched 87-night Amazon and Antarctica Grand Voyage in 2028 aboard Borealis, which departs from Southampton and visits 28 ports across five continents.
Prices start from £1,998 per person for a 10-night Canaries Escape with the Fleet Fiesta, including winter sunshine in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Madeira and Portugal. Other itineraries include an 11-night Country Hopping from Greece to Tenerife from £2,098 per person, an eight-night Charming Spanish Cities & Autumn Warmth from £2,221, a 10-night Cyprus, Turkey & Egypt Escape from £2,848, and an 11-night Exploring the Greek Islands from £3,273. Longer voyages include a 12-night Spain & the River Cities of France from £3,323, a 14-night European Cities & Scenic Rivers from £4,368, and a 23-night Islands of the Mediterranean with Croatia from £5,298.
Passenger experiences
One passenger described Borealis as 'Brilliant for an adults-only solo first timer' adding 'the best cruise ship ever. Staff couldn't do enough for you, spaces were never crowded, food was great, cabin was comfy. Ideal ship for scenic cruising as you will always find a space on the open decks to watch the scenery.'
Another solo traveller said: 'I thoroughly enjoyed my cruise. The staff were brilliant, the food was fantastic in all venues, the destinations excellent. The excursions I went on were amazing. Everything was well planned, well executed and delivered by a knowledgeable, friendly and highly capable team.'
The same passenger noted: 'As a solo traveller, I quickly got to know the other solo travellers on my table at dinner which meant that there were always people to go to shows and activities with - including the Colours and Tastes Restaurant which was amazing.'
A different reviewer praised the social aspect: 'I wasn't sure what to expect but I booked a Fred. Olsen cruise as a solo traveller, but never once felt alone.'
Criticisms and alternatives
Not all reviews were entirely positive. One three-star review noted: 'Personally as a solo traveller, I wish there had been more than One Hosted meet up, just one does not give solo travellers time to get to know or recognise people.'
Other cruise lines also cater to solo travellers, including Norwegian Cruise Lines with breaks to the Bahamas, Greek Islands and Mediterranean, and Saga Holidays offering Solo Tours for those aged 50 and over. TUI also has options for solo travellers.
