Free Spirit

Travelling solo is liberating. Here Becky Wiggins chooses six of the best cruise lines for independent travellers.

- Becky Wiggins

1 NCL

Norwegian Cruise Line were early pioneers of solo cruising with the introduction of their award-winning Studio Staterooms back in 2010. Designed and priced specifically for guests travelling solo, perks include exclusive access to the private Studio Complex and Lounge with free coffee and snacks, a nightly happy hour, singles meetups and room service. Some sailings also offer reduced single supplements at less than double the original value of the cruise.

A seven day round trip sailing around Alaska onboard Norwegian Bliss offers a stunning itinerary starting with the chance to explore the cosmopolitan city of Seattle, before heading to the first of three ports of call in Alaska: Juneau, where guests can take the opportunity to experience the spectacular falls and floating icebergs of the Mendenhall Glacier. Step back in time to the Klondike gold rush with a trip on the White Pass and Yukon Route narrow-gauge railroad in Skagway, then experience a breathtaking cruise through the magnificent glaciers, snow-capped mountains and abundant wildlife of Glacier Bay. Arriving in lush Ketchikan, more adventurous guests can take an expedition to zipline through the rainforest canopy, or choose to delve deeper into the rich culture of Southeast Alaska’s Native American population. The final port is the picturesque city of Victoria in British Columbia (we recommend the ‘bites and sights’ tour which combines local landmarks with a visit to several popular local restaurants).