A group of 20 of us cruised through Alaska to celebrate our friend Susan’s milestone birthday aboard Princess Royal. From the moment we boarded we were instantly in vacation mode. The ship had plenty of elegant spaces, relaxing bars, lively entertainment and, of course, plenty of places to relax and take in the incredible views of Alaska.

One of our favorite ways to celebrate Susan was with a Captain’s Champagne Toast. It was Elegant Night, so we all dressed in black and the Captain joined us as we raised our glasses to Susan and to the friendships that brought all 20 of us on board.

Captain’s Champagne Toast

Champagne tower

On our second day at sea, the girls got together for a proper tea party, complete with tea, sweets and plenty of laughs.

Food was another highlight of the trip. We made our way through several of the ship’s specialty dining options, including dinner at Crown Grill Steakhouse, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and Ocean Terrace Seafood Bar. I have to say, the service was impeccable at all three, and the food was amazing.

Sabbatini’s Italian Trattoria

Ocean Terrace

We also took some time to enjoy the spa. After busy days exploring Alaska and enjoying everything the ship had to offer, a little pampering was exactly what we needed. Massages, relaxation and some quiet time were the perfect complement to our otherwise very social schedule.

Of course, Alaska itself provided the backdrop for the entire experience. Sailing past mountains, glaciers and pristine wilderness made even an ordinary moment on board feel extraordinary. We could spend the morning exploring, the afternoon enjoying the ship and the evening watching the scenery pass by.

What I loved most about the trip, though, was we weren’t simply taking a cruise. We were creating memories together: 20 friends, one milestone birthday, countless meals, Champagne toasts, tea parties, spa days and plenty of laughs.

— Darla Mossotti, account executive