Hi Christopher,
Good morning and thank you for reading and sending your question. Yes, more times than not I end up paying double as a solo traveler. Occasionally, I’ll catch a reduced single supplement and that’s helpful. For your Holland America cruise (sounds fantastic…34 days!), because it’s a repositioning cruise, there may be a promo or two that you could catch. But keep in mind that suites (and inside staterooms) are usually the first to sell out. Also, before you pay your deposit, check to see if there is a rate drop, will your rate be adjusted. Usually not, but if it’s before final payment and if the savings is greater than the penalty, then you might be able to get a break in price.

I’ve had to settle for plenty of inside staterooms over the years because of having to pay double or travel in the off-seasons. Like taking the last westbound transatlantic crossing of the season in mid-December or early and late season Alaska cruises. I watch for promos, and especially now with the cruise lines practically begging for passengers. That Australia trip sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime voyage. I hope it all works out for you! And thank you again for reading my article.