On the fifteenth day of our Ultimate Alaska Cruise, we spent the day At Sea, which meant that we steamed south from Alaska, at speed, through the northeast Pacific Ocean. There wasn’t a whole lot going on without a stop in port, so the crew did their best to make life more fun, to pass the time enjoyably. And they succeeded.
We woke up in the morning well-rested. It was obvious that heading downwind (and down-waves) from Alaska was the best direction, as the ship remained quiet all night, with limited or no rolling motions. We got dressed and headed up to the Lido Deck to get some breakfast at the buffet, which was well-stocked with all sorts of things. Yogurt and fruit? No problem. Grease and fat and high cholesterol? They’ve got you covered. And the view out the windows was excellent, even if it was only the ocean rolling by, the ship’s wake spreading out like a fan from the bow.
We took an after-breakfast walk around the ship. The indoor pool was relatively quiescent this time. Just some engine-vibration-induced wavelets, rather than the big sloshing bathtub that it was a few days ago. This time, it was truly and rightfully called the Pacific Ocean.
Just the same, the outside air remained chilly that morning, so we went back to the stateroom to relax. I read my book, and eventually took a nap. Or maybe you could call it a second night’s rest. Perhaps I’d have another breakfast later on…
Later on, Vicki went off to the salon to get her hair done for formal night. Why? Because she wanted to. It can be argued that cruises are all about self-indulgence, and this was her contribution to that ideal. As for me, I wandered around on deck and enjoyed the sunshine. It was a beautiful day.
Later, Vicki headed off to see a show by the ship’s Chefs in the main theatre. After they provided entertainment for the guests on stage, everyone was invited for a tour of the ship’s huge kitchens. They were marvels of stainless steel and cleanliness. As a bit of a chef herself, Vicki had a great time.
Then it was time for the final round of the Golf Tournament. As it turned out, we weren’t competing that day. It was actually the awards ceremony! Crewmember Lovely brought prizes, and also two bottles of Champagne. Yes, we were living well, we golfers. Then the awards were given out, and somehow I managed to score third place! Not bad for someone who never golfs. I got a bag full of Princess Cruises swag, like Princess-Themed water bottles, notebooks, flashlights, etc. All in all, not a bad haul.
There was also a special luncheon concerning Ramen Noodles. The chef in charge was very particular about how they were served. I was glad that I ate on the other side of the ship, at the regular lunch buffet. Don’t get me wrong: I like ramen noodles, but I like other food better.
Later on that afternoon, we repaired to our stateroom in order to get dressed for our Formal Night Dinner. Vicki wore a dress, and I wore a shirt and tie. Technically, “formal” means a tuxedo, and even though I happen to own one, I didn’t pack it. A regular suit would have to do. Most of our usual dinner companions dressed up, as well, which I appreciated. Being overdressed is almost as much a faux pas as being underdressed. There were much fancier items on the menu than usual, and our table had a great time. Our waiters also had fun, and posed for photos. They were a great pair, and always got us whatever we asked for. That’s what Service is all about.
That evening there was a Talent Show featuring members of the crew, and Vicki went to see it. I decided to do my boring old hike on the treadmill in the ship’s gym, instead. We both got what we wanted!
Since we were still far north, the sun didn’t set until late. Vicki decided that this was a perfect time to have yet another hot tub soak. Oh yes, she sighed, as she sank into the steamy water. This was Living the Good Life.
We went back to the stateroom later on and checked out the “Princess Patter” brochure for tomorrow’s events. We would visiting Victoria, Canada, the capitol of British Columbia. We were there once before, and we knew it was a beautiful city. And we had an official excursion planned already.
For a topographic map of the cruise see my CalTopo Page
For LOTS more photos of the voyage see my Flickr Page
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