You made it. Welcome to the start of something really good.

Today is your arrival day in Seattle, and while there's nothing on the agenda but getting here, I'd encourage you not to just check into your hotel and call it a night. Seattle is a fantastic city and you have an entire evening to enjoy it before we set sail tomorrow.

A quick note on logistics: airfare and your Friday night Seattle hotel are not included in your cruise package. They are separate and will be coordinated individually. You have a few options and I'll help you figure out what makes the most sense for you.

Option 1 · Book Through Princess Princess offers air and hotel packages that can be added directly to your cruise booking. The convenience factor is real... they handle your airport transfers, get you to your hotel, and make sure you're at the pier on time. If a seamless, fully arranged arrival is worth it to you, this is a great choice. Reach out to me and I can get that added for you.

Option 2 · Book on Your Own In many cases we can find better pricing on flights and hotels by booking independently. This is often the route I recommend for flexible travelers who want more control over their schedule and accommodations. I'll be reaching out to everyone in August once flights open up to help you get booked and make sure everything lines up.

Option 3 · Stay with the Group I'll be coordinating a group hotel for Friday night and arranging a van to transport everyone from the hotel directly to the ship on embarkation day. If you'd like to be part of that... and I hope you will... just let me know when we connect and I'll get you all the details. It's a fun way to kick off the trip together before you even board.

However you choose to arrive, I've got you. No one is figuring this out alone.

Once you're settled, get outside and enjoy the city. Pike Place Market is walkable from most downtown hotels and worth every minute. The waterfront is beautiful in the evening. And if you want a truly memorable way to start this adventure...

Optional Add-On: Downtown Seattle Food Tour with Drinks Friday, July 9 · 4:30PM–7:00PM

This is a wonderful way to experience the best of Seattle's food and drink scene the night before you board. You'll visit three of the city's premier restaurants and cocktail lounges, with food and drinks included at every stop and a local guide who knows the city inside and out. Non-alcoholic options are available. It's social, it's delicious, and it puts you in exactly the right mood for a week at sea.

Space is limited so let me know early if you'd like to join.

Tomorrow the adventure begins. Sleep well