Cruising alone has become increasingly popular in recent years, and Royal Caribbean has responded to this trend by introducing specially designed solo cabins on select ships. For decades, solo travelers struggled with “single supplements”—extra fees charged when one person occupies a cabin built for two. This often doubled the cost of a cruise, making solo travel expensive and less accessible. Today, Royal Caribbean has embraced solo travel by offering studios, virtual balcony studios, and ocean-view studio cabins that cater specifically to individuals traveling alone.
Still, not every ship offers these dedicated solo spaces, and the availability varies widely across the fleet. Because of this, travelers need a clear understanding of what solo cabins include, how they differ from traditional staterooms, how much they cost, and the pros and cons of booking one.
This comprehensive pillar article will help you fully understand Royal Caribbean’s solo cabin options, pricing, amenities, ship availability, booking strategies, and expert tips. Whether you’re a first-time solo cruiser or a seasoned traveler seeking independence, this guide will help you choose wisely and enjoy every moment of your journey.
Royal Caribbean offers multiple categories of solo cabins, depending on the ship. These specially designed rooms usually accommodate one guest, eliminate the single supplement fee, and provide comfortable, efficient space for solo cruisers.
Studio interior cabins are compact yet functional rooms designed exclusively for one person. These cabins typically include:
A full-size bed or twin
Private bathroom
Smart storage solutions
TV and entertainment
Small desk or vanity
They do not have windows, but they offer excellent value for budget-conscious solo travelers.
Some Royal Caribbean ships offer solo ocean-view rooms, giving single travelers the luxury of natural light and an outside view without paying for a full-priced double-occupancy cabin.
Features include:
Full-size bed
Window with ocean view
Larger layout than interior studios
Upgraded décor depending on ship class
These cabins tend to sell out quickly due to high demand.
Royal Caribbean is known for innovation, and its Virtual Balcony cabins are a favorite among solo travelers. These studios feature:
A floor-to-ceiling HD screen
Real-time ocean views
Live scenery feed from outside the ship
It creates the feeling of a balcony without the balcony price tag. These solo cabins are available only on select Quantum and Oasis-class ships.
In some sailings, Royal Caribbean may waive the single supplement on regular cabins, allowing solo travelers to book:
Interior rooms
Ocean-view rooms
Balcony rooms
Junior suites
This is not a dedicated solo cabin type but an occasional offer that significantly reduces costs.
Not all Royal Caribbean ships offer solo cabins. Availability depends heavily on class and ship size. To make planning easier, here’s a clear guide.
Select ships in this category include:
Offers solo interior rooms and a few ocean-view solo options.
Features studio interior cabins designed for solo cruisers.
Provides limited solo staterooms; extremely high demand.
Has a modern selection of solo interior rooms.
Quantum-class ships have some of the best solo cabin options, especially virtual balconies.
Features virtual balcony solo cabins and interior studio rooms.
Offers a mix of interior studio, virtual balcony studio, and ocean-view studio cabins.
Carries one of the largest selections of solo cabins in the fleet.
A few older ships have limited solo cabins.
Includes select studio interiors.
Offers studio interiors on certain decks.
Ship availability can change as Royal Caribbean updates and renovates vessels, so always check the latest deck plans.
Solo staterooms are designed to maximize comfort and efficiency. While smaller than standard double-occupancy rooms, they offer thoughtful layouts and essential amenities.
Studio rooms are usually between 96–120 sq. ft., compared to the typical 170–180 sq. ft. interior cabin designed for two. Despite their smaller footprint, they feature:
Full-size bed
Compact storage
Bathroom with shower
Sleek décor
Modern lighting
The design emphasizes comfort without clutter.
Solo bathroom amenities include:
Shower
Sink
Toilet
Basic shelving
Closet or wardrobe
Under-bed storage
Small shelves and drawers
Hooks for personal items
While not spacious, they meet the needs of single travelers perfectly.
Studio cabins often include:
Flat-screen TV
USB charging ports
Standard power outlets
Wi-Fi availability (extra cost)
Royal Caribbean’s smart cabin controls (on newer ships)
Many solo cabins are placed in quieter deck areas or midship zones. This helps reduce noise and allows for easier access to key locations like:
Elevators
Dining venues
Entertainment areas
Observation lounges
Solo cabins provide several key benefits compared to paying for a double-occupancy cabin alone.
This is the biggest advantage. Solo cabins are priced for one person, meaning you avoid paying double the fare.
Solo cabins offer:
Lower total cruise fare
Perfectly sized space
Smart design
Access to all ship amenities
They present tremendous value for individuals.
Some ships host solo traveler meetups and events—especially on larger ships with more solo cabins. This creates opportunities to:
Meet fellow solo cruisers
Join group shore excursions
Participate in onboard activities
It removes the isolation some solo travelers fear.
Cruising alone allows you to decide:
When to eat
Where to explore
Which shows to attend
How to relax
A dedicated solo cabin enhances this sense of personal freedom.
While solo cabins have many advantages, they also come with limitations worth considering.
Solo cabins:
Most ships have fewer than 20 solo staterooms.
Peak seasons and popular itineraries can book out months in advance.
Expect a snug but efficient layout. Travelers who want more room may prefer a standard cabin with waived supplement if available.
Only select ships offer true solo cabins. Your itinerary choices may be influenced by this.
Solo cabins may sometimes cost more than booking a discounted interior cabin meant for two—especially during off-season promotions.
Solo travelers can save money and improve comfort by booking strategically.
Solo cabins disappear fast. Booking 6–12 months ahead is ideal.
Sometimes a discounted double-occupancy cabin can be cheaper even with a small supplement.
Royal Caribbean occasionally offers:
No single supplement
Solo traveler discounts
Category upgrades
These can drastically reduce costs.
If solo cabins are your priority, focus on:
Anthem of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas
Oasis-class ships with many studio options
Meet-ups help you enjoy:
Dining with others
Activity buddies
Excursion companions
Cruising solo doesn’t mean being alone.
Solo cabins are located in secure cabin zones, offering peace of mind. Use:
Solo travelers love:
My Time Dining
Buffet freedom
Specialty restaurants (extra charge but worth it)
Cruise shows and activities are perfect for mingling, such as:
Trivia
Karaoke
Deck games
Theme nights
Join group excursions to feel more connected and enjoy a guided experience.
Royal Caribbean has significantly improved the solo travel experience through its selection of studio cabins, virtual balcony studios, and ocean-view solo staterooms. While not available on every ship, these rooms offer the perfect balance of comfort, privacy, and affordability. They eliminate the dreaded single supplement and create a more welcoming environment for independent travelers.
Whether you want to relax alone, explore ports at your own pace, or meet fellow solo cruisers, Royal Caribbean’s solo cabins make it easier and more enjoyable than ever. With proper planning and early booking, you can secure a fantastic solo cabin at an excellent price and enjoy a memorable adventure at sea.
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