Cruises for Single Parents from the UK
Why MSC Cruises are perfect for single parents
Planning a holiday as a single parent in the UK isn’t always easy. Between rising travel costs, school holiday prices, and the pressure of doing everything yourself, it can quickly feel overwhelming.
That’s where cruising with MSC Cruises comes into its own.
With straightforward pricing, family-focused facilities, and everything in one place, MSC Cruises offer a stress-free way to travel—without the need to constantly plan, budget, and organise every detail.
Sail from Southampton or conveniently planned fly-cruises
For UK families, convenience and value are key—and MSC delivers both.
Many itineraries are available thorughout the year from Southampton with summer itineraries to the Canary Islands, Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean and Spain, France and Portugal.
Throughout the winter months, MSC Cruises sail to Northern Europe with excellent value for money cruises allowing you to visit Hamburg, Rotterdam and Brugge.
Fly-cruise options
Fly-cruise options offer convenience to destinations including the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, and beyond.
This flexibility makes it much easier to plan a holiday around UK school holidays, without adding extra stress.
Affordable Single Parent Holidays
Special discount for the first child
Cost is often the biggest barrier for single parents—and this is where MSC Cruises really stand out in the UK market.
MSC offers:
- 15% discount for the first child
- Reduced fares for additional children
Compared to many other cruise lines—where children are often charged full adult fares—this can make a significant difference.
If you’re searching for cheap single parent holidays from the UK, cruising can often work out better value than booking flights, hotels, meals, and activities separately.
Cruises for the whole family
MSC Cruises has built a reputation for providing fun and relaxation for all ages ensuring a memorable holiday for the whole family
Family friendly excursions
Exploring new destinations with children can feel daunting, especially when travelling alone—but MSC makes it simple.
Their family-friendly excursions are designed to be:
- Easy to follow and well organised
- Suitable for children of different ages
- Stress-free for parents
Children also benefit from discounted pricing:
- 0–2 years: Free
- 3–13 years: Around 30% discount
This makes it easier to enjoy destinations like Spain, Italy, and France without worrying about logistics.
Stress Free Dining
Dining can be one of the most stressful parts of any family holiday—but on an MSC cruise, it’s taken care of.
- Meals are included in your cruise fare
- Child-friendly menus are widely available
- Flexible buffet dining works well for younger children
One of the most valuable features for single parents is the kids’ club dinner service.
Children can:
- Eat with their new friends in a supervised setting
- Be returned to the kids’ club afterwards
This gives you the chance to enjoy a proper meal, watch a show, or simply relax—something that’s hard to come by on most holidays.
Time for you
One of the biggest benefits of a cruise—especially as a single parent—is the chance to have some time to yourself (without the guilt).
While your children are enjoying the kids’ clubs, you can:
- Visit the spa or gym
- Enjoy a quiet coffee or drink
- Watch a show in the theatre
- Simply relax
It’s a rare opportunity to recharge, knowing your children are safe, happy, and entertained.
MSC Kids Clubs
One of the biggest advantages of cruising with MSC Cruises is the included kids’ clubs.
They’re divided by age group, helping children make friends quickly while taking part in activities suited to them.
Baby Club
Baby Club (0–3 years)
- Run by trained staff
- Option to stay or use Baby Care (chargeable)
- Partnership with Chicco
Mini Club
Mini Club (3–6 years)
- Arts, crafts, games
- Activities with LEGO
- Family Disco's
- MSC themes parades
Junior Club
Junior Club (7–11 years)
- Games
- Sports competitions, themed events
- Family Discos
Young Club
Young Club (12–14 years)
- Sports and interactive activities
Teens Club
Teens Club (15–17 years)
- Gaming, discos, social events
Onboard Entertainment for All Ages
Onboard Entertainment for All Ages
MSC ships are designed with families in mind, meaning there’s always something to do.
Depending on the ship, you’ll find:
- Waterparks and waterslides
- Bowling alleys and arcades
- F1 simulators and 4D cinemas
- Family quizzes and competitions
Popular activities include:
- MasterChef at Sea
- Guinness World Records challenges
- Quiz O’Clock
Evenings are just as lively, with:
- Theatre shows
- Silent discos
- White Night and themed parties
A Fun Pass can be a good option for UK families travelling in peak school holiday periods, offering better value on onboard activities. smaller balcony connected to the master bedroom.
Time for you
While your children are enjoying the endless activities in the kids clubs, this allows you to spend some well deserve time to yourself doing the things you enjoy
Spa & Gym
- MSC's Aurea Spa
- Ballinese Massage
- MSC Gym
- Exercise Classes
Theatre or Bar
- Watch one of the shows in the theatre
- Enjoy a cocktail in a bar or lounge and enjoy the evening entertainment
Relax or Shop
- Shopping in one of the designer shops onboard
- Relax by the pool