I do the same thing. I love a leisurely steam and shower at the gym, at home or on a cruise. I guess that makes me a dirty young man.
I'm going November 14, not December. That's the sailing BEFORE Thanksgiving (it actually returns to San Diego on Thanksgiving morning) and I picked that date particularly because I've been advised that sailing will have less children.
Good idea about asking the Maitre de to be put at a table of other single travelers. Glad to hear there are daily FOD meetings.