I love big open spaces, being active, fresh food and have a tendency towards travel sickness. According to most stereotypes, I am not the ideal cruise-goer. Not to mention that this was ‘a cruise to nowhere’, meaning that we didn’t have a new place to explore when we docked.
However, my trepidation was unfounded and after three days aboard the P&O’s new cruise ship The Pacific Eden, my perspective had done a 180. The trip was an incredible way to get out of the city and enjoy the calm of being at sea, and that was even without a destination.
Cruise Myths Debunked
1. Cruises are for old people
Prior to the cruise, I imagined old men in Hawaiian shirts lying on deckchairs or playing bingo. I was astounded by the young demographic on board. The atmosphere was more that of a fun party than retirement vacation. This was proven with there being a different themed party each night, including a white party and a Gatsby 1920’s party. Not to mention ‘The Dome’, the resident nightclub on board the ship where everyone went to get down and boogie.
Oh and bingo is one of the activities available, but not as you know it. The game changes drastically when presented by a cheeky and controversial comedian. I am not ashamed to say that it was a personal highlight.
2. I will become claustrophobic
One thing that is not lacking on the Pacific Eden is space. From the high ceilings of the Lobby to my favourite spot on the whole ship, the front deck. I never felt like I couldn’t get away from the crowd and just breathe. There was nothing more relaxing and freeing as watching the moon reflected on the ocean, underneath more stars than I was ever used to seeing in Sydney.
3. The food is unhealthy and unappetising
One of the best parts of the entire trip was being treated to the spectacular Salt Grill Restaurant by Luke Mangan. I ate so much I could barely move, delighting in the truffle oil fries (his specialty) and a perfectly cooked piece of salmon.
Even when I wasn’t treating myself to a 5 star restaurant meal, the pantry, an entire FLOOR dedicated just to food (yes such a wonderful place does exist), always had salad, fruit or a healthy choice for me.
4. I will get seasick
I am notorious for having a dodgy stomach that detests airplanes, cars and of course boats. I was petrified that I would spend most of my trip vomiting overboard. Luckily, I found that as long as I was outside or could see the horizon, I barely noticed the ship’s movement. I didn’t meet one person who had been ill on the trip- what a relief!
5. I will get bored
With the hectic and busy lifestyle I lead, I am used to always having something on my ‘To Do List’. I was really worried that being ‘stuck’ in one place I would go a bit stir crazy. Although it probably would have done me good to do absolutely nothing, luckily there were so many activities I didn’t have enough time to fit them all in. From a Gatsby dance class; to a massage, spa and steam room to bingo or a comedy show, there is something for everyone.
6. Cruises are for lazy people
As a fitness lover, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to get my heart rate up and my body moving on board The Pacific Eden. Not only was there a decked out (excuse the pun) gym, but also there were fitness classes and lectures. Dancing the night away and walking around exploring the ship also kept me as active as ever.
7. Cruise ships are tacky
All you need to do is look at the incredible pictures below to see the beautiful design of The Pacific Eden. Each room was classy and unique; it was easy to forget you weren’t on dry land.
Whether you are a sea-lover or a sceptic, cruises are not at all what you would expect. If you love travel, relaxation and more activities than school camp, then it is the perfect holiday.
Why not see if, like me, you do have sea legs after all?