Day 12 - A Day in Quarantine: Remembering the Diamond Princess

In early 2020, long before vaccines, rapid tests, or even a clear understanding of how COVID‑19 spread, the world watched a cruise ship become an unexpected symbol of the unfolding pandemic. The Diamond Princess, a ship that had departed Yokohama on January 20, 2020 for a Lunar New Year voyage through Asia, returned to Japan on February 3 under circumstances no one could have imagined.

A passenger who had disembarked in Hong Kong on January 25 later tested positive for COVID‑19. When the ship reached Yokohama again, Japanese authorities ordered a full quarantine — a 14‑day isolation that, for many passengers, stretched far longer. Some spent up to 39 days confined to their cabins as testing protocols evolved and “quarantine clocks” reset each time a cabinmate tested positive.

Life Inside the Cabins

There were 3,711 people onboard — 2,666 passengers and 1,045 crew. By February 5, the quarantine began in earnest. Passengers were instructed to stay inside their cabins. Crew continued essential duties, often without the ability to isolate fully, which contributed to additional spread.

Testing was initially limited to symptomatic passengers and close contacts. Later, as Japan expanded laboratory capacity, officials began systematic testing by age group, starting with those over 80 and people with underlying health conditions.

Ultimately, 712 people were infected, and between 7 and 14 passengers died, all older individuals.

The Human Side of Quarantine

For many of us who followed the story, certain images and accounts remain unforgettable. I remember reading about a British passenger quarantined in a mini‑suite — his experience was difficult, but what stayed with me most were the stories of those in inside cabins. No windows. No fresh air. No natural light. Fourteen days became twenty, then thirty, then thirty‑nine for some.

That’s why I will never book an inside cabin again.

The Diamond Princess quarantine showed the stark difference cabin type can make in an emergency. Balcony cabins became lifelines — a place to breathe, to see daylight, to feel connected to the outside world.

How It Shapes the Way We Cruise Today

Fast‑forward to now, and I’m writing this from a deluxe balcony cabin on the Star Princess, with a larger balcony mid‑aft — exactly the kind of space I choose deliberately. Deck 11 has one of the best balcony footprints, and our cabin even has a chesterfield that’s larger than the ones on Holland America. The room is new, bright, and comfortable.

And unlike those early pandemic days, our own quarantine experience has been nothing like the Diamond Princess.

A Modern Quarantine at Sea

We’ve had excellent care. Meals delivered to the room — anything we want. At first we weren’t hungry, but now that our appetites are back, we’re enjoying every bite. Normally, room‑service breakfast is limited to cold cereal, fruit, muffins, and coffee. But this time? We were able to order scrambled eggs and sausages, something you don’t usually get from the standard breakfast card.

I gave husband my sausages and we saved the banana for later.  It was hot and delicious.

The TV lineup has kept us entertained: movies, BBC HD Marine, and we even watched Strictly Come Dancing — the British version of Dancing with the Stars. It’s comforting, familiar, and a reminder of normal life.

My husband is recovering well. The Tamiflu is working. His fever is gone, his colour is better, and his appetite has returned. We are not suffering. We are safe, cared for, and comfortable. They keep calling asking if we need anything! The service is great.

Looking Back — and Forward

The Diamond Princess quarantine was one of the earliest global wake‑up calls. It showed how quickly a virus could spread in close quarters, how difficult containment could be, and how isolating illness can feel when you’re far from home. It also highlighted the resilience of passengers and crew, and the importance of clear protocols.

Today, cruise lines have learned from those early days. Medical teams are stronger, isolation procedures are humane, and support is far more comprehensive.

But the memory of those 14 to 39 days in Yokohama remains — a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how grateful we can be for the comfort and care we receive now.

Day 11 - What to Do When You Feel Sick on a Cruise Ship

 

This photo was taken by a passenger on the Ovation of the Seas as we passed by

We are currently quarantined in our stateroom, balcony doors open to a truly stunning view of Cabo San Lucas. The Disney Wonder and the Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas are anchored out in the harbour — because there is no cruise ship pier here, tenders ferry passengers to the dock. It is, objectively, a beautiful scene. And we are watching it from isolation.

Here is how we got here.

How It Unfolded

We are travelling with our dear friends Kathy and Don. Four days ago, Kathy came down with a bad cough. By yesterday, she was really sick. She went to the ship's medical center, where they tested her — Influenza A.

Two days ago, my husband developed a sore throat. After a very rough night, he made his own trip to the medical center. His result? Both Influenza A and Influenza B. That is apparently as unlucky as it sounds.

I went with him to the medical center. The ship's doctor prescribed me Tamiflu as a preventive measure, which I was grateful to receive quickly. My husband has now been quarantined to our cabin, and the medical team will test him twice daily to determine when he can safely return to normal ship activities. Right now, he is sleeping most of the day and night — which is exactly what his body needs.

We had arranged a private shore excursion in Cabo that we were genuinely looking forward to. It has been cancelled, of course. The harbour view from our balcony will have to do. We've been to Cabo before so we don't feel upset about missing this port.

What We Learned: Tips If You Get Sick at Sea

If you or someone you are travelling with falls ill on a cruise, here is what we would tell you based on firsthand experience:

Go to the ship's medical center early. Do not wait and hope it passes. Kathy went when she was bad; by the time my husband went, he had both strains. The sooner you are tested and treated, the better — for you and for everyone else on board.

The ship's medical team is well-equipped. They have testing, prescription medications including antivirals, and clear quarantine protocols. We have been treated professionally and with genuine care throughout. We've already received a call from Guest Services, "what do you need, anything you want, just call us".

Ask about preventive treatment for travel companions. I was offered Tamiflu prophylactically simply because I had been in close contact with my husband. Do not be afraid to ask what options exist for people who have been exposed but are not yet symptomatic.

Never travel without comprehensive travel insurance. This is the first trip in all my years of travelling that I have actually needed to use it. I am so glad I have it. Medical care on ships is not free, and missed excursions add up quickly.

Quarantine is strict — but for good reason. Influenza spreads very easily in the close quarters of a cruise ship. The protocols exist to protect hundreds of other passengers. Accept it, be grateful for the balcony view if you have one, and rest.

So here we sit, my husband sleeping behind me, Cabo glittering in the afternoon sun, two magnificent ships anchored in the harbour. It is not the Cabo experience we planned — but it is ours, and we are making the best of it.

Travel rarely goes exactly as written in the itinerary. Sometimes it tests you. The best preparation is good insurance, quick action when something feels wrong, and the willingness to rest when your body demands it.

Feel better soon to my husband and to our dear Kathy. And to anyone reading this from a sunny port somewhere — go ashore and enjoy it for us.

Flu shots were not available before we left home.  We get them every year.  Too bad we didn't leave a little later.  Don't forget to get your flu shot!

Just as we eased away from Cabo San Lucas, the captain’s voice came over the overhead speakers with news that changed the rhythm of our voyage. We wouldn’t be stopping in Mazatlán after all — tomorrow would now be a sea day.

A tropical system was forming to the southeast of Lázaro Cárdenas: Hurricane Simon, still young but rapidly strengthening. According to the National Hurricane Center, Simon had just developed off the southwestern coast of Mexico and was expected to intensify into a hurricane by late Thursday, potentially becoming a major hurricane by Saturday.

So the ship adjusted course, picking up speed, doing what ships have done for centuries — outrunning weather. There was no panic, just that quiet awareness that the ocean has its own plans. And tomorrow, instead of strolling through Mazatlán, we’ll be watching the horizon, letting the sea day unfold while Simon gathers strength far to the south.

We were boarding 18 new entertainers in Mazatlan. They can't board, so the cruise director is adjusting the entertainment schedule. We've enjoyed all the entertainment and looking forward to seeing Ken Boyd the Comedian once again.

Leaving Cabo San Lucas with a gorgeous sunset that was farther to the right.  

Day 10 - Sea Day Magic: Calm Seas, Smart Tech, and Endless Choices

This morning the Star Princess is gliding through calm, glassy water under a warm 30°C / 86°F sun. Sea days have a special kind of rhythm — unhurried, spacious, and full of possibility. If you’ve ever wondered what people do when there’s no port to rush off to, the answer is: absolutely anything you want.

Princess schedules over 100 activities on sea days. In fact, there are so many options that the Princess Patter can’t even fit them all into the printed edition. Trivia, lectures, crafts, music, fitness, games, enrichment sessions — you name it, it’s happening somewhere onboard. All the activities are shown on the Medallion with a description, location and route map to find the venue.

And behind the scenes of all this choice is one of Princess’s biggest innovations: the Medallion.

The Medallion: A Tiny Disc That Transforms Your Cruise

Princess is still the only cruise line offering this technology, and it truly changes the experience. The Medallion itself is a small, quarter-sized smart disc — waterproof, heat-resistant, and never needs charging. You can wear it on a lanyard, slip it into your pocket, or pop it into a wristband or pendant.

But the magic is in what it does.

• Contactless Boarding: You breeze through the terminal using the fast “Green Lane,” skipping the usual check-in lines.

• Keyless Stateroom Entry: Walk toward your cabin and the door unlocks automatically — no tapping, swiping, or fumbling.

• Onboard Payments: Drinks, snacks, souvenirs — all charged to your account with a simple tap.

• On-Demand Delivery: Order anything from the app and crew can find you anywhere on the ship to deliver it.

• Wayfinding: The app’s compass helps you navigate the ship or locate your travel companions.

• Messaging system: You can contact your shipmates with a message, or Crew Chat - instead of going to Guest Services and standing in a line. If you have a question, you can send them a messsage. I've already done it and got an answer in less than 5 minutes!

• Simplified Safety Drills: Watch the muster video on your device and tap in at your station — quick, easy, and done. No more standing on the deck, answering to your name and taking your life jacket back to your stateroom with 3,000 other passengers at the same time!

It’s one of those rare pieces of technology that feels invisible until you realize how much smoother it makes your day.

A Perfect Sea Day

With calm seas, warm air, and more activities than anyone could possibly fit into a single day, sea days on Princess are a blend of relaxation and discovery. Whether you’re wandering the decks, attending a lecture, enjoying a show, or simply watching the horizon, the Medallion quietly supports it all — making every moment just a little easier.

Day 9 - A Surprising Moment at Sea

Cruises are usually a blend of sunshine, calm seas, and easy days — but every now and then, something unexpected reminds you that ships are busy, working environments behind the scenes.

Yesterday, we stepped out onto our balcony and immediately noticed something unusual on the pier below. Three fire engines were lined up beside the ship, lights flashing but no sirens. A few minutes later, crew members began lowering oil‑catching booms into the water, forming a bright white barrier around a section of the pier. It was clear something had happened.

Before long, a large winch truck arrived and lowered its crane toward the water. Slowly, carefully, it lifted a piece of equipment — a forklift — up from below the surface. Watching it rise dripping from the harbour was surreal. You don’t expect to see heavy machinery being fished out of the ocean on a sunny sea day.

We still haven’t heard how the forklift operator is doing. The drop didn’t look far, but even a short fall can cause serious injury. Everyone onboard seems to be hoping for good news.

Moments like this remind you that while cruising feels effortless, there’s a whole world of operations happening just out of sight. And sometimes, those operations take an unexpected turn.

I'm sure the owners of the suitcases are getting free laundry. Let's hope there were no electronics in those cases.

I took this picture from our balcony

And while all this was happening the Ovation of the Seas 168,666 Gross Tons left the Port. Star Princess is 177,800 Gross Tons.

 

Day 8 - Los Angeles - Back‑to‑Back Day: Turning One Cruise Into Two

Today marked an interesting transition on the Star Princess. About 700 of us who boarded in Vancouver are continuing all the way to Fort Lauderdale, while the rest disembarked and a fresh wave of excited new passengers came aboard. Princess sells this itinerary as a 23‑day cruise, but you can also book it as 7 days + 16 days. It turned out to be cheaper to book the two segments separately — so that’s exactly what I did.

The bonus? When you sail back‑to‑back, Princess counts them as two cruises, which means two sets of loyalty perks. As an Elite guest, that includes two bar setups. I’m not drinking alcohol at the moment — watching both my weight and my sugar — so I asked them to swap the pop and spirits for bottled water. A small change, but a helpful one.

A Much Easier Back‑to‑Back Process

Princess invited all back‑to‑back guests to a short seminar. Things have changed, and honestly, the improvements are remarkable.

In the past, we had to gather at a venue at 9:00 AM, walk off the ship to scan our cards, then sit in a holding area until every passenger had disembarked. If the Coast Guard ran a drill, or if U.S. Customs or the Health Department decided to do an inspection, the wait could stretch on and on. Eventually, we’d reboard with new cruise cards and start again.

This time? None of that.

Thanks to Medallion technology, everything rolled over automatically. Our same medallions stayed active, our cruise status continued seamlessly, and we didn’t even have to muster again. (Apparently, if you’re at sea for more than 25 days, you do have to repeat the muster — but we’re just under that threshold.)

If we wanted to go ashore today, Princess provided “Guest in Transit” passes to show security. But with the temperature soaring to 38°C / 100°F, we decided to stay onboard. It turned out to be a lovely choice — the ship was quiet, peaceful, and perfect for wandering.

Sail Away, Round Two

We sailed at 4 PM. In Vancouver, they didn't have a sail‑away party because the ship departed in the middle of the night. I always enjoy those moments — the music, the energy, the sense of shared adventure — so we stopped by today just to listen to the band and watch all the new passengers buzzing with excitement.

There’s something special about seeing people at the very start of their cruise. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it reminded me how lucky we are to be continuing on for the long voyage ahead.

  We had an aft table for breakfast at the American Diner and this was the view from our table!

View from the Port/Forward of the ship at Pier 46

Starboard side from our balcony,  They loaded provisions all day!

An NFL game in the dome.  Chose a regular chair or lounger with padding, it's air conditioned. 
 Note the indoor/outdoor pool!

Day 7 - A Smooth Sea Day and a Fascinating Look Behind the Scenes

Leaving San Francisco

Sometimes you forget the ship is even moving, and the sunshine has followed us as we head further south. It’s amazing how quickly the weather shifts once you’re out of the northern latitudes — suddenly everything feels brighter, warmer, and wonderfully relaxed.

Sea days have their own charm. There’s no rush, no schedule you have to keep, just a gentle rhythm of activities to dip into as you please. This morning, Cole, our Cruise Director, hosted an information session about working at sea. It was surprisingly detailed — and clearly popular, because the room was standing‑room only. I was lucky enough to snag a chair.

Cole explained how the hiring process works for Princess. Everything goes through a third‑party agency, and if you’re not a U.S. citizen, you need four separate U.S. visas before you can even begin. After that comes the Marine Medical/Seafarers Medical fitness certificate. It’s quite the journey just to get onboard as crew, and hearing the steps laid out gave me a whole new appreciation for the people who make these voyages run so smoothly. Cole spoke about how the crew is treated, their accomodation and all the rules for them. He works four months on and two months off. He's a New Zealand citizen isn't required to pay taxes to the US or New Zealand. He has a girlfriend in South Africa where he spends his vacation.

Between sessions, I’ve been enjoying one of my favourite features on this ship: the smart elevators. They’re a small thing, but they make such a difference. You tap the floor you want on a display, it assigns you an elevator, and once you step inside there are no buttons at all — just open and close. The elevator simply takes you where you’re meant to go. Efficient, quiet, and best of all, no more kids pressing every button “just for fun.”

You choose your floor.  You always know what deck the gangway is on!

I was on floor 8, asked for floor 11 and it takes you there with NO stops!

Tomorrow we dock in Los Angeles. There are over 700 passengers, like us who are staying on for the next cruise. I'll explain the "turnaround" in tomorrow's blog.

Day 6 - San Francisco Day 2

I just learned that the Star Princess is the largest ship ever to dock at Pier 27. Hard to believe, considering she didn’t use that pier on the way to Alaska — but she certainly made her presence known this time.

There’s something special about having an overnight in port during a cruise. Last night felt relaxed in a way sea days never quite do. No rushing back for sail away, no watching the clock. We enjoyed a lovely dinner onboard and then headed to an outstanding show with Ivan Pecel, a juggler and comedian who had the whole theatre laughing. A perfect evening without a hint of hurry.

This morning started simply with a quick breakfast before Don and I decided we needed a few sundries. Target was the mission. We walked over to catch the 14 bus, and the driver couldn’t have been kinder. He was just starting his route, and we were the only passengers. We asked how to pay — credit card, cash, what’s the fare? He smiled and said, “You’re visitors. Here’s a two‑hour pass.” A small gesture, but it made our morning.

We later discovered that the pass also worked on the trolley running down the Embarcadero, right past Pier 27. So on the way back, instead of retracing our steps, we hopped on the trolley and rode home in comfort, watching the waterfront roll by. I got off at pier 27. Don continued on to Pier 39 as he wanted Clam Chowder for lunch! Cec, Kathy and I went to the American Diner and had a relaxing buffet lunch.

A simple outing, but full of those little moments that make travel feel generous.

The Ferry Building

The other side of Embarcadero showing the statue an the Ferry Building at Pier #1

You catch the #14 bus right by the Ferry Building and it took us right to Target!

Richard's horse "B the King" had a great race.  I should have placed a bet before I left!

Day 5 - San Francisco Day 1

Oakland Bay Bridge picture taken from our balcony

Pier 39 was fun.  We had lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe and saw the magic show!

Only 2 Sea Lions - every other time we've visited these floats were full of them!

A blimp and Alcatraz

I'd love to know what this Costco sign says!

Waymo cars everywhere!

Love the architecture

Marin County

Golden Gate Bridge. It was cold and windy going over in an open air Hop On Hop Off bus, but lots of fun!

We slipped under the Golden Gate Bridge at 5:30 this morning, though I wasn’t up to see it. I’ve sailed beneath that beautiful span before, and we’ll sail out again tomorrow night, so I didn’t feel the need to greet it in the dark.

Because we stopped in Victoria, everyone had to clear U.S. Immigration here in San Francisco. It was a smooth, straightforward process — the usual questions about how long we’re staying and whether we’re carrying drugs, cigarettes, alcohol, fruit, or meat. The officer was pleasant, and before long we were on our way to meet the Big Bus for our tour.

The drive through San Francisco was wonderful. We crossed the Golden Gate Bridge again, this time wrapped in fog, with wind whipping across the open deck and the kind of cold that makes you laugh because you didn’t dress for it. Even so, there’s something magical about that bridge disappearing into mist.

By the time we returned to Pier 39, the city had transformed. The fog had lifted, the wind had calmed, and the sun was shining across the waterfront. San Francisco does that — it shifts moods quickly, offering a little drama and then a warm smile.

A memorable day, from foggy bridge crossings to sunny piers.

Day 4: A Glorious Day at Sea

Sea days have their own rhythm, and today was one of those wonderfully full ones where you could wander from deck to deck and never run out of things to do. Before noon alone, the schedule looked like a small festival.

Carpet Bowls rolled into Line Dance Class, while Arts & Crafts offered a peaceful Origami session for anyone wanting a quieter start. Zumba brought the energy back up, and Iris Photography: Your Eyes, Your Art drew a curious crowd — it’s amazing what they can capture in a single close-up of an eye.

The enrichment lectures were especially good today: a naturalist speaking on West Coast wildlife, followed by a talk titled All You Really Need for a Good Night’s Sleep. (I suspect half the ship attended that one.) Then came the fast-paced fun — Officers & Guests 60‑Second Frenzy, wine tasting, bingo, and even a jewellery auction. And that’s just the morning.

The afternoon carried on with more bingo, Deal or No Deal, and a whole lineup of game shows. They’re always lively, always packed, and always good for a laugh.

Tonight’s entertainment is a double feature. First up is magician David Gatti — I usually look performers up ahead of time, and his website gives a good sense of the style he brings. After that, a Candlelight Concert with Kelly McDonwell. It’s a common name, so I’m not entirely sure which Kelly she is, but I have a feeling she may be the soprano. I’ll find out soon enough when the lights dim and the music begins.

Tomorrow we reach San Francisco, and it will be a big day for the whole ship. Everyone — guests and crew alike — must go through U.S. Immigration. It begins at 8:00 AM, and they expect the process to run until at least mid‑afternoon. We’ve got Hop On Hop Off bus tickets, so our little group will gather at the meeting point and head out together at 8:30 AM. It should be a long day, but a memorable one.

For now, the ocean is calm, the ship is humming, and there’s that familiar feeling of being exactly where you’re meant to be — somewhere between here and the next adventure.

Day 3 Why We Keep Coming Back to Cruising

There’s a reason we cruise again and again: the experience is simply richer. When we travel by plane or take a road trip, we often end up in a hotel or motel, flipping through TV channels and calling it a night. It’s comfortable, yes — but not exactly memorable.

On a cruise, the days feel fuller. There’s always something happening just steps away: music, lectures, games, shows, and that wonderful buzz of people enjoying themselves. Entertainment isn’t an add‑on — it’s part of the heartbeat of the ship, and it’s one of the things we love most.

This week we joined the Global Trivia, hosted by the Future Cruise team. Out of 46 questions, we scored 41 — and the winning team had 43. Not bad at all. If you’ve sailed with Princess before, you’d recognize many of the clues, which made it even more fun. It’s that blend of familiarity and discovery that keeps us coming back.

Cruising gives us destinations, experiences, and entertainment all woven together. It’s travel that feels alive — and that’s why we choose it.

Here are some pictures of the first couple of days of entertainment:

The aerielists were wonderful

Sand Artist at work

A very delightful Latin production. 
Many more singers and dancers but I was enjoying it so much I didn't take more pictures.

Andrew Kennedy put on two shows, the family show the first night and the XX rated at PG 18 at 10:30 PM both very good

This concert was incredible!  A fabulous guitarist/vocalist

We've been told there will be many concerts in this gorgeous venue

Day 2 - Victoria

We sailed the short route from Vancouver to Victoria overnight, and by the time we docked around 7 AM, the city was just beginning to wake. The air was cool — that crisp coastal kind of cool — but it felt refreshing rather than cold. Victoria has a way of greeting you softly, even first thing in the morning.

With no schedule and no rush, we decided to walk the waterfront around Ogden Point. It’s a beautiful stretch, open to the sea and full of that familiar West Coast calm. The waves were steady, the sky still pale, and the lighthouse stood quietly at the end of the breakwater, as it always does.

There’s something lovely about starting a day with a simple walk by the water. No crowds, no noise, just the rhythm of the ocean and the feeling of being somewhere peaceful. Victoria is good at offering that — especially early in the day, before the city fully stirs.

I often hear people say they “never want to go on a large ship.” They say it with conviction — even though most have never actually tried one. It’s a bit like dismissing a restaurant you’ve never eaten at or a city you’ve never visited. Assumptions can be powerful, but experience is even more so.

Years ago, we found ourselves in that exact situation. Friends had chosen Allure of the Seas, which at the time was the largest cruise ship in the world. It wasn’t a ship we would have picked on our own. In fact, we were hesitant. But we wanted to join them, so we booked it — cautiously, curiously, and with no idea what to expect.

What happened surprised us.

We loved it.

Not just “it was nice” — we genuinely enjoyed the experience. The ship felt like a floating neighbourhood, full of energy and choices. There were different venues of music, each with its own personality. J azz one night, Latin rhythms the next, and quiet acoustic sets tucked away in cozy lounges. The shows were outstanding, far beyond what we expected at sea — Broadway‑level productions, comedy, ice shows, and performances we still talk about today. They had the full Broadway production of "Chicago"! All for the price of the cruise.

And here’s the part that says everything: We booked another trip three months later because we wanted to see everything we missed the first time.

Large ships aren’t for everyone, of course. But they offer something special — variety, entertainment, and the freedom to choose a different experience every night. You can be as busy or as relaxed as you want. You can listen to music, watch a show, sit quietly with a book, or wander through spaces designed to feel like little worlds of their own.

So when people tell me they’d “never” go on a big ship, I smile a little. Because sometimes the best travel surprises happen when you try the thing you thought wasn’t for you.

Day 1 Vancouver

 

Yesterday was embarkation day, and what a smooth start it turned out to be. We boarded the Star Princess at Canada Place, where the aft of the ship was docked. Our scheduled boarding time was 11:30, but we arrived at the pier at 11:10 thanks to a fabulous Uber driver who knew exactly where to go. He pulled right into the terminal, and before we even opened the door, a luggage cart rolled up beside the car. It felt like VIP service without even trying.

We headed upstairs, picked up our medallions, and walked straight through security. No lineups, no delays, no fuss. Even with three ships in port, the organization was excellent. We were stepping onto the ship right at 11:30 — the kind of efficiency you always hope for but rarely get.

Once aboard, we went straight to our stateroom, dropped off our carry‑on, completed our muster, and made our way to the Aurora Dining Room for lunch. The service was warm and attentive, and lunch was exactly what you want on embarkation day: relaxed, tasty, and unhurried.

The afternoon was spent wandering the ship and settling in. Our luggage arrived by 2:30, giving us plenty of time to unpack before our 5:20 dinner reservation. And then came the surprise of the day — look at the table we got! Perfect location, perfect view, and we didn’t even have to bribe anyone. Sometimes the cruise gods simply smile on you.

A wonderful start to the voyage, full of small kindnesses, smooth logistics, and that familiar excitement of being back at sea.

After dinner we went to the theatre and saw a very funny comedian.  He's got an adult show tomorrow at 10:30 and we will be there!   A great ending to a wonderful day,

What day is it? It's CRUISE DAY!

Today’s the day — we’re boarding the new Star Princess for a 23‑day cruise from Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale.  Even better, we’re travelling with friends.  It’s always nicer to sail with people you know.

I’ll blog whenever the ship’s Wi‑Fi cooperates. Satellite internet has come a long way now that most ships run on Starlink, though the speed still depends on how many people are trying to upload their vacation photos at the same time.

One thing I won’t miss is the news. Back home, cities and municipalities across the province are deep into election season. I can’t vote this time in the city election — we’re leaving before absentee ballots are even ready. That’s a first for me; I always vote. We’ll be back in time for the provincial election, though. I’ll catch up on the candidates then. I don’t yet know who I’m voting for, but I definitely know who I’m not voting for.

For now, it’s time to call an Uber to go to Canada Place. There’s something special about starting a trip from your own home city — a little calmer, a little easier, and a lot more fun.

A Glimpse Into the World of HX Expeditions: Where Curiosity Meets the Wild

HX Fridtjof Nansen

Every so often, you step aboard a ship and immediately sense that it isn’t built for ordinary travel. That was my experience this week when I had the opportunity to tour an HX Expeditions vessel — a ship designed not for mainstream cruising, but for people who feel most alive when the world is at its rawest and most untouched.

HX Expeditions has been sailing for 130 years, and that legacy shows. These are not floating resorts. They are purpose‑built expedition ships created to bring travellers into the planet’s wildest, most awe‑inspiring places — the kind of destinations most cruise lines simply sail past without stopping. HX doesn’t “view from a distance.” They land. They explore. They immerse.

Where Nature Sets the Itinerary

One of the first things you learn about expedition cruising is that nature is in charge. HX itineraries adapt in real time — shifting with sea ice, weather, wildlife sightings, and the ever‑changing conditions of remote environments. There’s no rigid schedule carved in stone. Instead, there’s a promise: you will go where the moment offers the greatest opportunity for discovery.

It’s a refreshing philosophy. Instead of forcing nature to fit a timetable, HX follows nature’s lead.

A Cruise for the Curious

These journeys attract a very specific demographic — people who love science, wildlife, geology, photography, and the quiet thrill of being somewhere few humans have ever stood. Guests aren’t looking for casinos or Broadway shows. They’re looking for knowledge, wonder, and the kind of beauty that doesn’t need embellishment.

On board, you’ll find experts in marine biology, glaciology, ornithology, and climate science. Lectures aren’t entertainment; they’re part of the adventure. Every landing, every zodiac ride, every wildlife encounter becomes richer because you understand what you’re seeing.

Going Where Mainstream Ships Don’t

Most cruise lines pass by Antarctica or the Arctic from a safe distance, offering scenic cruising and photo opportunities from the deck. HX does something entirely different.

They go ashore.

Their fleet of sturdy zodiacs can land on remote beaches, giving guests the chance to step onto the ice, walk among penguins, or stand at the foot of a glacier. For those who want even more immersion, HX offers kayaking in polar waters — and yes, even camping overnight on the Antarctic continent. Imagine waking up to absolute silence, broken only by the crack of distant ice.

It’s not just travel. It’s participation.

A Ship Built for Purpose

Walking through the vessel, I noticed how every space serves the mission. Observation lounges with wide windows. Mudrooms for gearing up before landings. Science centers. Equipment designed for safety in extreme conditions. It’s a ship that invites you to learn, to explore, and to feel part of something larger than yourself.

This isn’t a cruise you take to escape life. It’s a cruise you take to understand the world more deeply.

Why HX Stands Apart

After touring the ship, it’s clear why HX Expeditions has earned such a devoted following. They offer something rare: authentic exploration. Not curated, not staged — real, unpredictable, exhilarating discovery.

For travellers who want to go beyond the postcard and into the heart of the planet’s most remote places, HX delivers an experience that stays with you long after you return home.

One area that no other expedition ship has is the Science Center. Packed with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, the Science Center is at the heart of the onboard experience.  This is where guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding of the areas you explore.  You’ll have advanced microscopes to analyse rock, fossil and biological samples you would have collected earlier in the field. The flexible venue features lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more.

Boot storage

Boot cleaner which is necessary not to take anything onto the continent

Outer wear for everyone

Different types of Kayaks

Tent for a sleep out in Antarctica

Typical Ocean View Stateroom

The staterooms are larger than most.  The balcony cabin is the same floorplan as this and the balcony is large!  I took pictures of the suites.  They were gorgeous.  The aft suites have hot pools on the decks!  I can't post all the pictures.

HX is 130 years old and here is the original cabin:

There are 3 restaurants onboard.  All were very nice.  We had a lovely lunch in the dining room.

An aft infinity pool and two hot tubs at the aft

It's impossible to capture the entire ship.  It's so unique.  Here is a a video ship tour: