I'm a 68 year-old gay man and went on my first-ever cruise in October on The Emerald travelling solo to Canada/New England because my husband no longer wants to travel. I loved it and am taking a 14-day b2b solo trip to Alaska on The Sapphire in May. I know there were solo meet-ups but I skipped them because they were at the same time as the LGTBQ meet up. I met a few guys who I saw here and there around the ship and in port over the course of the trip. The interactions were pleasant but not substantial. But these fleeting conversations did add to my enjoyment of the trip.
Eating: I am very comfortable eating alone in restaurants and had fine service as a solo in both the MDRs and specialty restaurants. I never asked to be seated with others. I found the Buffet less comfortable and harder to manage. I loved the International Cafe. Seating in that area was sometimes tight but I always found an empty table in the Piazza or the adjoining bar.
Bars: I enjoyed having my drinks and listening to the music in the bars but did feel a bit self-conscious. I never noticed anybody else sitting alone.
Wi-fi: Having my cell phone available really enhanced my trip. I remained in frequent contact by e-mail, text, and FB with my husband and many friends at home. I felt that I was sharing my trip and really enjoyed this aspect of the experience.
