Below are the results of the 2026 whale watch. Feedback was overwhelming positive which makes me happy since I organized a group close to 50 in numbers and did not want to disappoint. Tail Tail Tail!! Our fabulous group checking in This year I did something slightly different. During our pre-cruise meeting at the best Western, I had people take a second name tag and write any rideshare event they were looking for (example- “whale watch” or “monkeypod”).. This way, most people

We have the most wonderful Hawaiian ambassadors on this cruise. We are learning Hula, Ukelele, Hawaiian Language, eating Hawaiian foods, and being exposed to many other features of Hawaiian culture. Most important, our ambassadors ooze aloha energy. Every word, every emotion, every step is filled with the spirit of aloha. This Haole has great respect for Hawaiian culture and I think it’s wonderful that our ambassadors are exposing so many to what it means to “live aloha”. IM

Embarkation Saturday February 14, 2026 Sunday February 15th Monday February 16th Tuesday, February 17th Wednesday February 18th Thursday, February 19th Friday, February 20th Maui, Hawaii 8-6 Saturday February 21 Hilo, Hawaii 8-6 Sunday, February 22 Honolulu Hawaii 8-11pm Monday, February 23 Kauai cancelled but we overnighted in Honolulu instead Tuesday, February 24th Wednesday, February 25 At sea Thursday, February 26th We have crossed the international line and entered the

A legendary cruise is a special voyage from Holland America where they add lots of nice little touches along the way. These voyages are typically over 30 nights long and come with a price tag to match, so lots of time for HAL to make us special. We’ve already received nice insulated coffee mugs and a beautiful legendary cruise canvas bag as gifts, but HAL also puts on additional parties and food events throughout the cruise. I’ll be adding as the voyage progresses. T ypicall

It doesn’t matter how many times I cruise, the first moment I lay eyes on a cruise ship I’m about to embark upon takes my breath away. Just a little gasp, but a little gasp so filled with gratitude that it sneaks right out my eyeballs. I feel so fortunate to be embarking on this 35 night journey thru Hawaii, Tahiti, and marquesas (for the third time). Sometimes I find myself wondering how is this my life? I’m just a small town girl from Michigan doing her best to make her d

Our first snorkeling experience with an entire colony of baby sea lions. This was such an incredible experience. They are so curious, playful, and FAST! Snorkeling with baby sea lions is a unique and thrilling experience that allows you to witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Sea lions are wild animals, and while they are generally friendly, they can be curious and playful. It's important to respect their space and avoid any signs of aggression. One ba

After a full week in Puerto Ayoya we headed back to the Balta airport to meet up with our Naturalist and gather the remaining 11 passengers so that we could all board a our home for the next 8 daya to explore the uninhabited islands in the Galapagos (never thought I’d say that). The Natural Paradise is a brand new ship in the luxury yacht category. Special amenities including a hydro-massage, 4-person Jacuzzi and spacious outside decks for relaxing, a large dining area and bo