Single cost more than double

[ILgirl]

I am Elite on Celebrity traveling solo.  Have always done AI and grab a single on E class when available which I enjoy very much.  Due to being priced out, I recently sailed Princess twice and NCL on a transatlantic with another transatlantic on NCL coming up in April.  Would I prefer Celebrity?  Yes.  Did I enjoy Princess and NCL?  I sure did.  A previous poster referenced the TA in November on Silhouette from Barcelona.  Twelve nights in an inside with gratuities but no bev package or wi fi is $1,600.  Only four ports and 12 days.  NCL for 13 nights transatlantic from Barcelona in a single (not studio but a single) is $1,900.  This includes 8 ports, wi fi, bev package, gratuities and 3 specialty dinners.  Also, the first $50 of each shore excursion.  I’m really sorry to leave Celebrity but it is becoming a no brainer!

[Gloucester Girl]

My husband and I started cruising with celebrity in 2008. Sadly he passed away in 2019, and I have been cruising solo since. I join good friends who are loyal Celebrity guests, soon to be Zenith. They are so much fun, and make my trip so special. I have traveled with others on some all inclusive lines. They are booked on three back to backs in Southeast Asia for 2026 on Millenium in a Sunset Veranda. For a V3 (obstructed view) I am being quoted $2000 more total for my cabin as a single, then the two of them together in theirs. My deposit is due in a view days, and I am inclined to cancel. The current pricing policy for singles is not just unfair, it is punishing to people like myself, who, believe me would give anything to have my husband traveling with me.

[basenji56]

10 hours ago, Gloucester Girl said:

My husband and I started cruising with celebrity in 2008. Sadly he passed away in 2019, and I have been cruising solo since. I join good friends who are loyal Celebrity guests, soon to be Zenith. They are so much fun, and make my trip so special. I have traveled with others on some all inclusive lines. They are booked on three back to backs in Southeast Asia for 2026 on Millenium in a Sunset Veranda. For a V3 (obstructed view) I am being quoted $2000 more total for my cabin as a single, then the two of them together in theirs. My deposit is due in a view days, and I am inclined to cancel. The current pricing policy for singles is not just unfair, it is punishing to people like myself, who, believe me would give anything to have my husband traveling with me.

This is just terrible. Have you tried booking with a travel agent with better rates?  

[RHudson1825]

29 minutes ago, basenji56 said:

This is just terrible. Have you tried booking with a travel agent with better rates?  

My TA said they are seeing the same rates for solos. She said her celebrity rep recommended book double and then say your 2nd person is a no show. I told her I won't do that as 1) is lying and 2) celebrity will eventually have a no show penalty to stop this. As the poster said above, I prefer celebrity but I won't reward this behavior from them and will use other lines. 

[basenji56]

3 minutes ago, RHudson1825 said:

My TA said they are seeing the same rates for solos. She said her celebrity rep recommended book double and then say your 2nd person is a no show. I told her I won't do that as 1) is lying and 2) celebrity will eventually have a no show penalty to stop this. As the poster said above, I prefer celebrity but I won't reward this behavior from them and will use other lines. 

It's pretty sad when a Celebrity rep suggests lying to get around unjust corporate policies. But this conduct should NOT be rewarded with our business. 

[goofysmom99]

My last cruise on the unrevolutionized Constellation pushed me to wanting newer/newly-built ships going forward.  I like things like USB and AC outlets on the nightstands, better TV interfaces, mold-free, unpatched showers with rain heads, etc.  So I've been comparing lots and lots of solo options among lots of cruise lines.  Resulted in booking two Silversea cruises @150% for 2025.  Silversea rates are all inclusive = no add-ons.  The Silver Ray (2024 build, 728 pax) Nov 2025 TA, veranda suite (357 ft, that's their lowest) is $6125 compared to Ascent (2023 build, 3260 pax), unobstructed infinite veranda (243 ft, 200%) at $5764 (all included + gratuities).  Aqua would be $7600, Sky suite $11480.  Silversea also includes excursions, but on a TA, that doesn't make much difference to me.  So for $361 more, I get a real balcony, a butler, room service, mini fridge stocked, walk-in closet, full-size sofa, specialty restaurants, and excursions.  At 200%, X's fares are still not a good deal....seriously, is AQ on Ascent worth $1836 more than a bigger suite w/balcony on Silversea?  My future X bookings need to be AQ because I'm through with MDRs, that and X just raised the price of specialty restaurants a LOT.  Anyway, the equal/better solo prices on Silversea pretty much iced it that this year's Nov Silhouette TA will be my last on X. 

 

BTW, surprisingly, Silversea's 150% supplement popped up on lots of cruises, even 2025 Alaska. 

 

Edited January 28 by goofysmom99

[lexmiller]

23 hours ago, cruisemom42 said:

 

It isn't just bad publicity. I am wondering if what Celebrity is doing could be classed as discriminatory. Particularly if they have actually said something in writing about charging solo cruisers more because they spend less onboard. They are penalizing a specific category of cruiser for something that can't be universally true.

 

Some people on the solo cruisers forum have stated that this WAS actually stated by Celebrity in some communication. If anyone has a link to that communication or can post a copy of it, I would like to see it. 

 

This is just a money grab by Celebrity and it's also a slippery slope. What if, for example, they reviewed onboard spending habits by age category and found that cruiser over 70 years spent a third less than younger cruisers in general. Would they be able to make a case for charging older cruisers more? Or even more egregious, say they discovered that a certain minority ethnic group spent 40% less onboard.....

 

Of course not -- it would be discriminatory. Why are they allowed to get away with this where solos are concerned?

 

As I said, I would like to see anywhere that Celebrity has discussed this policy in writing. I did skim through the whole thread and other than the reference to the Forbes article, did not see any other links.

 

Someone mentioned YouTube reviewers commenting on this policy as well. Link please?  (It is perfectly fine to link to YouTube videos as long as they are not by a travel agency.)

 

I fully intend to follow up on my concerns with Celebrity, but I prefer to have as much information as I can ahead of time about how they have "rationalized" this penalty on solo cruisers.

 

Please keep us posted as to how this goes as I think your point about discrimination is spot on.  And let's all keep in mind the article in Forbes, I'll repost the link, that calls Celebrity out for the exorbitant single penalty, worst of all the lines.  

 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerdooley/2024/01/07/solo-penalty-cruise-line-charges-single-travelers-much-more-than-double/?sh=3142d7275a3a

 

[cruisemom42]

4 hours ago, goofysmom99 said:

My last cruise on the unrevolutionized Constellation pushed me to wanting newer/newly-built ships going forward.  I like things like USB and AC outlets on the nightstands, better TV interfaces, mold-free, unpatched showers with rain heads, etc.  So I've been comparing lots and lots of solo options among lots of cruise lines.  Resulted in booking two Silversea cruises @150% for 2025.  Silversea rates are all inclusive = no add-ons.  The Silver Ray (2024 build, 728 pax) Nov 2025 TA, veranda suite (357 ft, that's their lowest) is $6125 compared to Ascent (2023 build, 3260 pax), unobstructed infinite veranda (243 ft, 200%) at $5764 (all included + gratuities).  Aqua would be $7600, Sky suite $11480.  Silversea also includes excursions, but on a TA, that doesn't make much difference to me.  So for $361 more, I get a real balcony, a butler, room service, mini fridge stocked, walk-in closet, full-size sofa, specialty restaurants, and excursions.  At 200%, X's fares are still not a good deal....seriously, is AQ on Ascent worth $1836 more than a bigger suite w/balcony on Silversea?  My future X bookings need to be AQ because I'm through with MDRs, that and X just raised the price of specialty restaurants a LOT.  Anyway, the equal/better solo prices on Silversea pretty much iced it that this year's Nov Silhouette TA will be my last on X. 

 

BTW, surprisingly, Silversea's 150% supplement popped up on lots of cruises, even 2025 Alaska. 

 

 

Silversea also has some 125% supplements.

 

The problem for me is that it's still a stretch for someone who generally books insides. 

[latebuyer]

On 1/22/2024 at 7:06 AM, lexmiller said:

I don't think this has been posted, sorry if it already has - but here's a link to a terrific article in Forbes about the single supplement, but specifically how Celebrity is blowing it big time, charging more than any of the other lines - damaging their brand and discouraging loyalty.  This was published Jan 7, before the letter posted from LHB.  

https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerdooley/2024/01/07/solo-penalty-cruise-line-charges-single-travelers-much-more-than-double/?sh=e8285815a3a5

Unfortunately, as solos continue to desperately book celebrity cruises, celebrity will continue their behaviour of putting elevated single supplements. Why wouldn’t they when solos are still flocking to them?

[basenji56]

1 hour ago, latebuyer said:

Unfortunately, as solos continue to desperately book celebrity cruises, celebrity will continue their behaviour of putting elevated single supplements. Why wouldn’t they when solos are still flocking to them?

They have convinced some of their customers that there is no alternative to Celebrity regardless of the price.  Not true.  

[cruisemom42]

1 hour ago, latebuyer said:

Unfortunately, as solos continue to desperately book celebrity cruises, celebrity will continue their behaviour of putting elevated single supplements. Why wouldn’t they when solos are still flocking to them?

 

But are solos really still flocking to them?

[Happy Cruiser 6143]

2 hours ago, latebuyer said:

Unfortunately, as solos continue to desperately book celebrity cruises, celebrity will continue their behaviour of putting elevated single supplements. Why wouldn’t they when solos are still flocking to them?

 

The solos I know including me are flocking AWAY from them.

[basenji56]

1 hour ago, cruisemom42 said:

 

But are solos really still flocking to them?

I think it is more likely that some solos booked without realizing that they were charged for more than two in a cabin.  Unless you are on the boards or have a good TA, the only way to know is to book as a solo and compare with what you would pay if you were booking for two. Some solos might just think that the prices had increased that much for everyone.

[latebuyer]

i don't plan to book celebrity period. Even 25% of cabins at more than 200% is too much in my opinion. I just don't want to support them.

[2Long2NxtCrz]

While I don't book solo cabins yet, I'm very disappointed in Celebrity for this policy. And, honestly? We booked Holland for Alaska last year and have another Holland book for this August. The ship is much smaller, but the itinerary is fabulous.

I love the Celebrity ships and their service, but Holland was very good (missing live music around the ship, but hubby and I can enjoy the sound of the sea instead). So, why give business to a line that needs to figure out their model, especially with something as egregious as charging a single more than a double!

We don't have a cruise booked after this August's cruise. We're both wanting unique and more in depth travel than a brief stop at a port can provide. Unfortunately, neither of us are yet retired so the length of our vacations are limited. Still, until cruising, and especially Celebrity, figure themselves out, we'll be doing land tours.

[crusinthrough]

On 1/8/2024 at 4:42 PM, drakes2 said:

Perhaps they are testing the waters. 

If people book double and have a no show, any data about what a solo will bear is skewed.  

On 1/9/2024 at 10:59 AM, Oceansails said:

The Executive office team is aware of this, and it could get your entire trip repriced if they catch it

How can Celebrity distinguish between a fathom guest and  a second person who couldn't make it last minute due to an emergency or transportation delays? It's an idle threat or something one person heard and it keeps spreading.  Until Celebrity makes an official announcement of the penalty and it's in writing, it's hearsay.  

On 1/10/2024 at 6:26 AM, basenji56 said:

On another group, someone said they were told that second passenger noshows would be charged for the extra person at the dock. 

People don't always travel as a couple or arrive at the port the same time.  There is no rule that guests are required to check in at the same time.  Enforcing this at the port would be problematic, if not impossible.  

On 1/11/2024 at 5:47 PM, zgscl said:

I would suggest trying to nab one ASAP. 

This is the mindset Celebrity wants.  TA solo is so desperate to sail Celebrity that 1) the inflated price is not a problem or 2) if a little bone is given, people jump on it because it's perceived as a good deal.  Wheres the inflated price shouldn't be a thing. 

On 1/22/2024 at 8:44 AM, Random Cruizer said:

If they can fill all the cabins, I would guess that they couldn't care less even about bad publicity. All that matters is the bottom line--if they are filling the cabins, bad press is forgotten in time.

 Every ship on every sailing is not sailing at 100% capacity.  

On 1/28/2024 at 4:35 AM, RHudson1825 said:

My TA said they are seeing the same rates for solos. She said her celebrity rep recommended book double and then say your 2nd person is a no show. I told her I won't do that as 1) is lying and 2) celebrity will eventually have a no show penalty to stop this. 

Yes, Celebrity is at the race to the bottom but it would really hurt business by trying to charge a cancellation fee.  Carnival charges a $100 no show cancellation fee but I never thought Celebrity would be competing with Carnival.  

Edited January 29 by crusinthrough

[crusinthrough]

I have a few pre inflated sailings on the books.  Some I will take and others I might cancel depending on how my upcoming cruise goes.  Otherwise, I jumped ship from Celebrity and sister brand Royal.  I'll choose Princess or VirginVoyages.  

 

VV onboard experience is more inclusive to solo sailors.  There is more solo activities throughout the voyages for solos to meet and feel include including dinner reservations.  Celebrity has an un-hosted solo event the first or second night then you are on your own. VV price has increased but not as much as Celebrity.  

 

Princess all inclusive pricing is better but smoking in the casino is a downside.  Their new ships Sun and Star look like they will be nice.  

Edited January 29 by crusinthrough

[latebuyer]

I feel like i should throw my support behind norwegian which is the only cruise line that has incorporated solos in its business model. As it is i have a princess cruise booked and we'll see how that goes. I'm done with Holland america too. I feel like they force solos to book guarantee rooms though someone said not all sailings are like that it seems like a lot. Bye bye Celebrity and Holland America.

[Travel-and-See]

For what it’s worth - I can get a solo insider on the Ascent for $1441 for a 7 night this month vs. $1470 on Virgin Voyages for a 5 night.  
 

now virgin includes more, but still celebrity still has some comparable pricing for solos. 

[latebuyer]

It doesn't sound like celebrity has much to offer singles if they are only offering a solo event the first or second day. From what i've seen celebrity pricing is higher then any other main stream cruise line except holland america perhaps and its gotten worse.

Edited January 29 by latebuyer

[Travel-and-See]

1 hour ago, latebuyer said:

It doesn't sound like celebrity has much to offer singles if they are only offering a solo event the first or second day. From what i've seen celebrity pricing is higher then any other main stream cruise line except holland america perhaps and its gotten worse.

I don’t expect or desire anything - I just don’t want to pay MORE for 1 than others pay for 2!

[Happy Cruiser 6143]

8 hours ago, basenji56 said:

I think it is more likely that some solos booked without realizing that they were charged for more than two in a cabin.  Unless you are on the boards or have a good TA, the only way to know is to book as a solo and compare with what you would pay if you were booking for two. Some solos might just think that the prices had increased that much for everyone.

 

It would never have entered my mind that Celebrity would do this if I hadn't read about it on these boards.  So now I know I have to check the prices two ways.  PIA.  And the results are astounding.

[latebuyer]

The TAs i’ve talked to haven’t even known about it so people really are doomed.

[RHudson1825]

9 hours ago, latebuyer said:

The TAs i’ve talked to haven’t even known about it so people really are doomed.

I have talked to the ta's (mine and two friends who are ta) and they all knew and are upset about it. One was on the icon naming and said many were talking about it. 

[latebuyer]

I’m sure some do, but not all. Its actually strange celebrity is doing a solo travel event for a travel agent in vancouver.

3 hours ago, RHudson1825 said:

I have talked to the ta's (mine and two friends who are ta) and they all knew and are upset about it. One was on the icon naming and said many were talking about it. 

 

Edited January 30 by latebuyer