Cruise vacations for single people are a great way to meet people that you normally wouldn't meet on a land vacation. However, there are some things you need to know if you plan on cruising by yourself.

Supplement Fees For Single Passenger

First of all, you are not planning on sharing a cabin and want it all to yourself, you will have to pay a "supplement" fee (while occupying a double cabin). Some cruise ships will charge a standard fee of around $250 while some pro-rate the cost depending on season and average bookings. The rates will vary depending on the cruise single. The reason for charging extra is because space is money on a cruise ship and if you occupy a double by yourself, that extra space could have held an additional person who would have spent more money on the ship. To avoid this, you should try and book your cabin as fast as possible and ask for a single cabin (they are very limited). There are som cruise lines that charge a lower fee than some. Those lines are Crystal Cruises and Voyages of Discovery does not charge a supplement fee for singles.

If you are a savy cruiser, you can try and get a guranteed singles rate.  Some cruise lines offer a set price for a double cabin for single passengers, however, they are able to pick the cabin and usually the cabin is not in an ideal location.  The benefit of this is that you won't have to pay an additional single supplement fee. Besides, how much time are you going to be spending in your cabin anyways?  You will be out having a blast with other singles!

Share Rooms Programs for Singles

Another great way to save money is to share a cabin with another person.  The cruise line will match you up with another person of the same sex.  If the line does not match a person up with you, then you will get the room to yourself at the lower cost.  A typical cruise line will not offer a shared rooms program but you should ask anyways. 

Now you know that all inclusive cruise packages include standard meals.  This also applies for singles.  Many single people who dine alone on a cruise complain that they do not have adequate seating arrangements. Try to make an arrangement before purchasing your cruise tickets about your preferences for dining. Do you want to sit with married couples or a large group? Would you rather sit at a table with all singles? Make these preferences known as a majority of your time will be spent eating around other people. Many cruise ships have open seating where you can choose where you want to seat, take full advantage of this. Also, if you the seating is fixed and you do not like your current company, ask to be moved by the maitre d'.

Cruising for Single Women

Did you know that females are the majority on cruise ships? The female to male ratio is very high, especially among older people. A cruise ship is very safe for single female passengers and it's often easy to converse with your fellow shipmates. The best way for singles to meet other singles is to participate in a lot of the social activities. However, women must be aware of one night stands with crew members. As cruise ships are aware of the high female to male ratio, they tend to higher gentlemen to partake in the cruise. These men will escort the ladies to social activities and will dance with ladies in the ballroom. These men are usually retired, over 55 and are very charming.

Gay Cruise Vacations

There are gay charters that focus just on cruise vacations for single gay men. Many times, these cruises cost 20% more than a regular cruise. However, they provide a great environment and offer gay-geared entertainment that could not be found on a traditional cruise ship.