After 16 days aboard Princess Cruises, I learned exactly what it takes to embrace long stretches at sea and why some travelers will absolutely love it.
When I booked a 16-day Hawaiian cruise with Princess Cruises out of Vancouver, I thought I knew what I was getting into. I've cruised plenty of times before, and honestly, I figured 16 days on a ship would be no problem.
What I didn't fully anticipate were the five-day stretches at sea with no land breaks at all. That's something you can read about in an itinerary, but until you've lived it, you don't truly understand what it means. It can be a little much, I won't sugarcoat it. But here's the thing: I would still do it again in a heartbeat.
The Moments That Made It Memorable
One evening, our group went to the Crown Grill for dinner, and one of our party ordered the Tomahawk Steak. Now, this wasn't just any steak. It was 32 ounces, and it took a team of servers to bring it out. They cut it right in front of you, the presentation alone was worth the experience. And the taste? Delicious doesn't quite capture it. It was one of those meals where everyone at the table just stops talking and enjoys.
Then there was the barista playing ukulele in the International Cafe. It's those unexpected touches that make you realize the ship itself becomes your destination during those sea days. You find your rhythm. You settle into the pace. You eat, drink, and enjoy yourself without rushing anywhere.
What I Wish I'd Known
I have to be honest about something. I went on this cruise with an injured knee, and I was stubborn. I didn't want to bring my crutches or rent a scooter or walker. Instead, I had a cane, and by the end of the cruise, I could barely walk. I now know not to be so stubborn. It's easy to rent a mobility aid and take it with you wherever you go. With all the walking you do on the ship and in port, it is well worth it. Don't deal with the pain when you don't have to. That's a lesson I learned the hard way so my clients don't have to.
Who This Cruise Is Perfect For
This itinerary is ideal for anyone who truly enjoys cruising and has done it before. If you love warm, hot weather and need a real getaway where you can focus on rest and relaxation, this is the type of cruise for you. Those long sea days aren't a drawback when you embrace them. They're the whole point. You get to disconnect, let someone else take care of everything, and just breathe.
That said, this probably isn’t for families with smaller children. And if you're someone who needs to be on the go, go, go and has to be on land constantly, you might find those five-day stretches challenging. That's perfectly okay. Different itineraries suit different travelers.
Why This Experience Matters
I've been asked in the past by clients what a lengthy cruise is really like. Before this trip, I could only speculate. Now I can tell them exactly what it was like first hand. The honest answer? It's a different kind of vacation. One that requires you to settle in and let the ocean carry you for a while. For the right person, that's pure serenity.
My travel list is lengthy, and I'm already dreaming about a Panama Canal cruise in the coming months. But this Hawaiian itinerary reminded me why I do what I do. Every trip teaches me something new, and now I have real answers for clients wondering if they can handle those long days at sea. The answer is yes, you can. And you might just love it.
Aralee Hryciuk