The Trip
I am grateful for (just shy of Category 5) Hurricane Joaquin providing me with the full spectrum of experience of cruising on the open ocean. Without those wonderful 155mph winds, I never would have experienced Sea States ranging the full spectrum 0 thru 8 on a scale of 9, with 9 labeled as "Phenomenal."
The previous week's cruise to Bermuda had crossed the hurricane's path in each direction to and from the Island. Joaquin was content to sit and spin, beating the hell out of The Bahamas. But, she wouldn't sit there much longer. Captain Hakan Svedung chose not to cross in front of the storm a third time, delaying departure from the NYC port by 10 hours to allow the storm to pass. Joaquin did pass on its way to the North-East, but not by very much distance.
The Solo Studio was the size of small bedroom sans the dresser, replaced by a shower stall and the head. The shower was temperature controlled yet very small. Ample storage space for a single person, firm comfortable mattress, and small shelf for sitting on the edge of the bed to write on. There is no table and chair so there is no place to eat, yet exclusive access is provided to a common lounge area for a continental breakfast, snacks, and to mingle with other solo passengers. Ship's WiFi signal was good but Internet access was expensive. Few TV channels were available. Voicemail and automated wake-up calls are available.