14 Best Cruises for Singles Over 40 Years Old

In life, travelling solo might turn out to be nothing short of a most rewarding experience—especially when you hit your 40s and over. By this time, most  travelers have already figured out what they like, place a premium on authentic relationships, and find engagement in the form of discovery at an easy and comfortable tempo.

Connoisseurs can cruise to the amazing exploration, relaxation, and interaction all in one and fully uninterrupted journey. The modern cruise industry has figured out the need, taken it to heart and now offers new, varied programs for the over-40 single passengers, accommodating single-only cruise packages to bump-up cultural expeditions and group-hosted social sailing.

Unwinding, making new friends, visiting culture-packed destinations, and engaging in themed experiences like Black singles cruises over 40, Christian singles cruises over 40, or Christmas singles cruises over 40 are just some examples of the new cruise itineraries that have been designed for solo adults who want fun without stress.

Why Are Cruises Great for Singles Over 40?

A cruise offers multiple benefits to adult solo travelers in this age group:

• Numerous social interactions happen with group dining, lounges, excursions, and hosted meetups.
• Traveling safely and organized with accommodation, meals, and entertainment all included.
• Personal space when needed, with the option to take part in activities as you like.
• Excellent value, especially on all-inclusive singles cruises over 40.

And above all, cruising attracts the kind of travelers who possess qualities such as curiosity and openness; these are indeed ideal conditions for a meaningful bond.

Various single cruise types

Cruising is not just for couples anymore; there is a range of singles cruises and picking one depends on your social style, travel preferences, and even the kind of connections you are hoping to make. Below are the major styles of singles cruises over 40 accessible today:

• General Singles Cruises: Solo guests of every taste can attend these cruises that bring a friendly and social atmosphere along with no pressure at all.
• Black Singles Cruises Over 40: Through these cruises, people of the same culture and community are going to celebrate and get together through lively and often themed social events.
• Christian Singles Cruises Over 40: Travel, fellowship, and spiritual enrichment are the three elements that these faith-centered sailings combine.
• Expedition & Adventure Cruises: Cruises on smaller ships that go to places like Antarctica, the Galapagos, and the Arctic,. These places are just for very active travelers.
• Holiday & Seasonal Singles Cruises: Such as Christmas singles cruises over 40, these parlors of merry-making and the like have for their guests' themed events and celebrations along with the very essence of the holiday.
• Dating-Focused Hosted Singles Cruises: It is arranged for mixers, group dining, and social hosts who play the role of facilitators for natural introductions.
• River Cruises for Solo Travelers: The limited number of visitors and the trips accompanied are factors that facilitate one's getting deep into the local culture and talking to others.

Such variety ensures that if you are after easy-going company, cultural richness, active thrill, or just love, there will be a cruise type that suits you.

The 14 Best Cruises for Singles Over 40

1. MSC Cruises – Social, Stylish, and Multicultural

Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a cruise line that has been able to attract a very wide variety of solo travellers who have one thing in common - they love culture, music and different global flavours. The overall atmosphere on board is social but not too much to bear which is perfect for the mature singles who want to socialize and interact but under the condition that there is no pressure. The ships do have wine bars, lounges and fashionable atrium gatherings which among other things serve as an area for casual chats.

Advantages for singles 40+:

• A diversely composed crowd almost by the guest demographic, with multitude of people in the 40+ to 60+ age range.
• European inspired entertainment is an essential component of a very laid-back yet elegant ambiance.
• Dance nights, cocktail parties and café events for socializing are great for meeting new people and regularly take place.
• The rates for solo travelers are very manageable especially for the routes that go to the Mediterranean Sea.

Also Read: How much does a cruise cost for 1 person?

2. Costa Cruises - Friendly, Warm, and European

Photo Courtesy: Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises is perfect for those who want their trip to be cheerful and cozy, where meeting people happens without any effort at all. The atmosphere is full of life and fun but still not too loud; at the same time, there are large and cozy cafés, live music lounges and many such cultural shore experiences. The meals are offered one after another in a very relaxed manner, which is helpful when it comes to chatting and connecting with other travelers.

Points that make Costa a good match for singles aged 40+:

• A nice, amiable and a bit eclectic crowd, making introductions very easy.
• Food, local wines, and cultural excursions are of utmost importance.
• Mediterranean and South American routes that allow for meaningful sightseeing.
• Group dinners and hosted meetups make socializing easy.

Also Read: How to Find the Best Cruise Deals for Singles?

3. Celestyal Cruises – Close-Knit and Destination-Focused

Photo Courtesy: Celestyal Cruises

Celestyal is all about the Greek Islands and the Eastern Mediterranean and uses smaller ships to ensure an intimate and personalized atmosphere. Such conditions help create a society where single travelers always experience each other and never get lost in the crowd. The speed is slow, and the landings are mainly for seeing ancient times, scenic places, and tasting cultures.

The reasons why singles over 40 like Celestyal:

• The smaller ships have the influence of genuine communication and friendships.
• Very good nightlife is not the only thing and thus the focus is on culture.
• Greek hospitality is very good and providing a nice social atmosphere.
• Perfect for those who don't mind spending time traveling to and slower lifestyle.

Also Read: Which Cruise Lines Offer Solo Cabins for Singles?

4. Princess Cruises – Social Without Being Overwhelming

Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises has been always one of the solo travelers' top picks who enjoy a chatty, music, and wine-tasting atmosphere along with cultural experiences. Some sailing companies provide matching roommates to cut down on the accommodation cost.

Benefits for singles aged 40 and above:

• Your age group will be the crowd on board.
• “Singles at Sea” events.
• The environment will be luxurious and not loud.

Also Read: What cruise line is best for singles?

5. Virgin Voyages - A social cruise for only grown-ups

Photo Courtesy: Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is on the top of the list for a lot of singles aged forty plus, mainly because of the adults-only (18+) rule and a well-oriented, fashionable atmosphere. Instead of basic buffets and family attractions, Virgin provides luxe lounges, rooftop bars, and food halls with curators, besides live music and events for the great places for making new friends.

Reasons why it is a fantastic cruise for singles older than 40:

• The no-kids rule guarantees a relaxed and mature atmosphere.
• The social mixers and group table dining are open to everyone.
• Solo cabins can be booked at no extra charge, so that singles do not pay high supplements.
• The routes are Caribbean, Mediterranean, and transatlantic.

Also Read: Senior Single Cruises: The Right Options & Tips for Solo Travelers

6. Norwegian Cruise Line – Studio Cabins for Solo Guests

Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Cruise Line

Apart from providing Studio Staterooms and Studio Lounge purposely built for singles, Norwegian Cruise Line can claim to be the best cruise line for singles over 40. The private community onboard for solo travelers allows them to meet informally without feeling pressured.

Main attractions:

• Host for solo travelers and group meetups every day.
• There are available all-inclusive single's cruise options.
• A full range of itineraries including Alaska and Europe is offered.

Also Read: 5 Tips if you are Cruising Solo

7. Celebrity Cruises – Refined and Social

Photo Courtesy: Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises creates an upscale but cozy atmosphere that attracts solo travelers above 40 strongly. The ships highlight dining, cocktails, art experiences, and destination immersion instead of constant crowd-focused entertainment.

Reasons singles choose Celebrity:

• Contemporary, classy ships with outstanding adult-social areas.
• Special hosted events for solo travelers.
• A fine-balanced schedule of active shore excursions.

Also Read: Which type of cruise is popular among solo cruisers?

8. Holland America Line – Relaxed, Elegant Cruising

Photo Courtesy: Holland America Line

Holland America is ideal for travelers who prefer a peaceful setting along with smart cultural programming. It is a good option for singles who are probably very much into learning, listening to music, attending cooking classes, and taking scenic trips.

Why does it matches singles 40+:

• Easygoing rhythm.
• Cruises for singles over 40 to Alaska are particularly popular.
• More concentrated attention to culture, the arts, food, and nature.

Also Read: Are Holland America Cruises for Solo Travelers?

9. Royal Caribbean – Active and Outgoing Social Setting

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

Should you love lively entertainment, active sports alongside all kinds of places to go winners then Royal Caribbean will be the correct choice for you. Singles cruises by Royal Caribbean line are suggested for the 40+ group due to the astonishingly vibrant but still so much adult-friendly environment it creates.

Some of the things that will make your trip unforgettable include:

• Unhurried mingling at the lounges and pool bars.
• Sports, theater, and parties all combine one night.
• Met new friends from the group of people who are active and love to have fun.

Also Read: Royal Caribbean Solo Cruises: The Ultimate Guide for Solo Travelers

10. Carnival Cruises for Singles Over 40 – Fun and Social

Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruises

Carnival is not only for the young but also for the adults. The atmosphere during select ships and longer itineraries becomes the opposite of the party mood - friendly, laid-back, and sociable. Numerous carnival cruises for singles over 40 have planned meet-ups and gatherings which are led by hosts.

Best for travelers looking for:

• Easy talks and hospitable places.
• Party atmosphere and laid-back activities.
• Low rates.

Also Read: Is solo cruising worth it?

11. Regent Seven Seas – Luxury All-Inclusive Singles Cruising

Photo Courtesy: Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas presents 40+ singles cruises that come with all-inclusive comfort, private balconies, great dining resorts, and the daftest travel via the in-shore activities included.

Great for:

• Travelers are mainly concerned with luxury.
• Single adventurers desiring the small-ship intimacy closeness.
• Enrichment of culture and cuisine.

Also Read: What are the best cruises for solo travelers?

12. AmaWaterways River Cruises - An exclusive and profound experience

Photo Courtesy: AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways' river cruises are designed exclusively for solo travelers who seek more attachments among their small group. It is very simple to get acquainted with other people, as these boats accommodate around 150 passengers. A considerable number of single travelers aged 40 and above have gone on a cruise of the regions of Canada, France, and Austria, and the rivers stretching beyond that, as these are particularly renowned not only for river cruising but also for being sought-after destinations.

Reasons for 40+ years old opting for river cruising:

• A scenic beauty that cannot be expressed in words paired with educational experiences.
• Tasting wines and taking guided tours in the cities.
• Not a single, overwhelming crowd.

13. Avalon Waterways River Cruises – Tranquil, Picturesque, and Cozy

Photo Courtesy: Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways is ideal for independent tourists who want to enjoy beautiful riverscapes, culture, and a lazy trip. The intimate ships give a boutique feel, and the excursions are planned according to varying interests and activity levels. The riverside allows easy and spontaneous communication and relationship building.

Highlights for solo travelers over 40:

• Easy-going atmosphere which is perfect for deep thinkers.
• Open seating in the dining area promotes gradual socializing.
• Shore excursions for history, food, wine, nature, and culture are designed.
• Cabins have been made with floor-to-ceiling windows for private scenic enjoyment.

Also Read: Which cruise line is best for 50 year old couples?

14. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises – Opulent, Creative, and Friendly

Photo Courtesy: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises provides a luxurious cruise on the river with decorated interiors, exceptional food and service. The small ships provide intimacy allowing the solo travelers to more areas to socialize, be it through dining or small-group tours that are well organized.

Reasons singles choose Uniworld:

• The personal feel of the boutique luxury is not at all overwhelming.
• Staff that is very friendly learn one's name and preferences in no time.
• Excursions centered around personal interests - perfect for making new friends.
• A varied and sophisticated guest list with most of the guests being 40+ or older.

Best Practices for a Solo Traveler's Cruise Experience

• Be present at the welcome event for solo travelers on the first day.
• Select open-seating dining for people to come across in a more natural way.
• Participate in the group excursions for the purpose of having shared experiences.
• Instead of your cabin, spend your time in music lounges, bars, or cafés.
• Make your plans flexible to include some spontaneous invitations.

Conclusion

Traveling by cruise is one of the most comfortable ways for singles over 40 to visit new places and meet people while the process is slower and more comfortable. If you are a lively, social energetic person or a luxury relaxing soul or the one enjoying culture discovery or small-group exploration there is a cruise experience that is just right for your travel style.

FAQS

Do you think that cruises are a good idea for single people above 40?

For sure! If you are a single traveler of this age group, then a cruise is going to be a great choice for you since the socializing aspect, safety, and relaxation of the cruise unwinding will together provide the best experience. Cabins for solo travelers, as well as the socializing through group excursions and meetups, are mainly the reasons why cruise lines take care of the connecting process to be nice and easy.

Is it going to cost me more if I am going alone?

Some cruise lines impose a “single supplement” fee as the price of cabins is determined for double occupancy. But on the contrary, there are cruises such as Norwegian, Virgin Voyages, Holland America and some river cruise companies that provide solo cabins or lower single supplements.

Are there any themed cruises for particular interests or groups?

Definitely. There are Black singles cruises over 40, Christian singles cruises over 40, holiday sailings like Christmas singles cruises over 40, and hosted “dating and social connection” cruises.