Top 5 River Cruises for Solo Travellers

No plus-one? No worries — these cruise lines are rolling out the red carpet for solo legends.

Whether you’re travelling solo by choice or just can’t wait for someone else’s leave to line up, river cruising might just be your dream scenario. You unpack once, float from one stunning town to the next, and choose your own balance between me-time and mingling.

The best bit? Some lines are dropping that annoying single supplement, while others have entire itineraries designed just for solo adventurers.

Here are the top five river cruise lines that absolutely get solo travellers:

1. Riviera Travel

Best for: Dedicated solo sailings with a social twist

Why it works:

   •   Regular solo-only cruises with no single supplement

   •   Group dinners, social events and solo-friendly excursions

   •   Designed to make solo guests feel included (without being babysat)

   •   Affordable price point, especially for Europe

Perfect if you want to travel independently but not feel invisible.

2. AmaWaterways

Best for: Luxury vibes + reduced solo pricing on select departures

Why it works:

   •   Waived or reduced single supplements on many sailings

   •   Small, friendly ships make socialising easy

   •   Active excursions (hiking, biking, wine tasting) are great for solo bonding

   •   Known for exceptional crew who remember your name and your drink

For solo travellers who want a luxe-but-welcoming experience.

3. Viking

Best for: Solo-friendly infrastructure without fuss

Why it works:

   •   Dedicated solo cabins on some ships

   •   No single supplement promos throughout the year

   •   Emphasis on enrichment, lectures and history — ideal if you’re happy going deep solo-style

   •   More introvert-friendly than party-heavy

If you’d rather talk archaeology than Aperol, this is your crowd.

4. Scenic

Best for: All-inclusive solo indulgence

Why it works:

   •   Select sailings with no single supplement

   •   All drinks, excursions and butler service included (no splitting bills = solo win!)

   •   Spacious suites with full river views — no shortchanging solo guests

   •   Friendly Aussie brand tone with top-tier service

Fly solo and still live it up, with everything handled.

5. CroisiEurope

Best for: Easy, no-fuss solo travel with European charm

Why it works:

   •   One of the most affordable options for solo cruisers

   •   Occasional solo cabins and reduced single supplement promos

   •   Regional menus and small ships = friendly, casual vibe

   •   Often more locals and Europeans onboard — great if you want to practice your French or German!

A low-key gem if you want solo travel with a cultural twist.

Bonus Tips for Solo Cruisers:

✅ Book early to lock in those no-supplement fares

✅ Ask about hosted dinners or solo meet-ups onboard

✅ Go for a line with small-group excursions — it’s easier to connect with fellow passengers

✅ Pack your confidence — everyone’s there to relax, just like you

Want help finding your perfect solo sailing?

Let’s make it happen — I’ll help you compare sailings, secure deals and pick a ship where you’ll feel right at home.

Cheers🥂

Michelle