Solo travel is often celebrated for its potential to transform travelers, fostering self-growth and enlightenment along the way. However, few consider that not every journey needs to culminate in a life-altering experience. For many, including those traveling as couples or families, the essence of a vacation can simply be the pleasures of exploration, relaxation, and culinary delights.

These contemplations arose as I prepared for a week-long Mediterranean cruise from Rome to Rhodes aboard Celebrity Cruises’ Ascent in mid-October last year. Although happily married, I frequently choose to travel alone, relishing the opportunity for self-discovery on past excursions, including yoga retreats in Turkey and poetry weekends in England. However, this time, I aimed to experience the unique realm of cruising solo for the first time.

My comfort with solitude was a huge bonus, and choosing Ascent for this voyage was ideal. When I first glimpsed the ship’s shimmering silver funnels and vibrant blue bow at the Civitavecchia port, just a 50-minute cab ride from Rome’s airport, I felt immediate excitement for the upcoming week. The vessel, accommodating around 3,000 passengers, struck a perfect balance—not too large to feel overwhelming on days at sea, yet equipped with amenities to ensure every hour was filled with enjoyable activities.

Ascent’s itinerary included captivating stops in Naples, Katakolon, Athens, Mykonos, and Rhodes, though I found an unexpected joy in my time aboard. Much to my surprise, I relished moments spent in my midship cabin on deck 7, designed by Kelly Hoppen with a soothing gray palette punctuated by bright yellow accents. Celebrity’s innovative ‘infinite veranda’ concept allowed me to transform my space into an open air retreat with just a button press—an indulgence compared to my past budget-conscious cabin choices.

Beyond the comforts of my cabin, I enjoyed lounging with books in the inviting Eden lounge, which boasted sweeping views from its many windows.

During the cruise, I encountered just a handful of other solo travelers; our small group met for a gathering on the first day. Among them was a 90-year-old widow from Texas who remained steadfast in his quest for adventure after losing his wife, alongside a recently widowed woman from Florida navigating her new life. Despite my solitude being a conscious choice, I empathized with their experiences.

Dining alone can be intimidating, particularly on cruises where singles are often seated together, but on Ascent, flexibility reigns. With unassigned dining times from 5:45 PM to 9:30 PM, I enjoyed meals in a quiet corner with my book. Each night, I explored the ship’s multiple restaurants, relishing dishes from scallops to duck, steak to homemade pasta, complemented by premium experiences at additional venues including Raw on 5 and the Fine Cut Steakhouse.

Evenings often included visits to the Martini Bar or the World Class Bar where I found friendly attendees eager to share stories, leading to moments of laughter as we acknowledged my solitary status and discussed the cruise.

On a sea day, I decided to pamper myself with spa treatments, opting for a facial, body massage, and invigorating IV therapy, which left me feeling unusually rejuvenated. While exploring port towns alone, I yet found joy in the freedom my solo status offered—no one to hold me back from spontaneous detours or shopping trips.

My visit to Athens allowed me to wander the picturesque and eclectic Plaka district, where I found joy in amusing distractions like a group of tourists hilariously singing Abba’s “Mamma Mia.” While alone, I did occasionally crave companionship during excursions, which were often rich in history and culture.

One memorable excursion took place in Naples, where I joined a small group on a market tour led by an onboard chef. We ventured to Sorrento, selecting fresh ingredients for a remarkable dining experience later in the evening that featured an unforgettable lobster and scallop soup.

As I disembarked in Rhodes, I found myself nostalgic for my solo adventure at sea. The trip proved to be a delightful indulgence, aligning perfectly with my personal preferences and providing a refreshing escape that prioritized pleasure over profound transformation.

Despite the expenses incurred—particularly regarding my spa treatments—the trip was undoubtedly worth every penny, offering one of the most enjoyable getaways I’ve experienced in years.