Are you sitting at your desk or maybe in traffic on the freeway dreaming of getting away? That is exactly where I was last month, I just needed a change of scenery. Getting away for even a day or two clears the mind and rejuvenates the soul. So, I grabbed the family and set sail aboard the Sapphire Princess on a short West Coast cruise out of Los Angeles.
I didn’t care about the itinerary, it was just getting on the ship and feeling like I was far from home.
Princess is now doing the short 3 and 4 night cruises out of L.A. They aren’t doing them year ’round, but frequently throughout the year. The cruises are affordable and offer a few days of pure relaxation.
The Sapphire Princess has recently been revitalized and is a fun ship. They have The Sanctuary up top, added dining and “Movie Under the Stars.” If you haven’t been onboard a Princess ship, The Sanctuary is an area that is an adults only with comfy lounges, private cabanas for massages and is a quiet and relaxing spot to dig into your favorite novel or magazine. There is a charge to use this area, $20 for a half day and $40 for a full day.
“Movies Under the Stars”, is so much fun. The screen is out by the pool, grab a lounge chair and a drink while you enjoy a concert or first run movie.
Our first port was Santa Barbara. Love the town, there is plenty of shopping and little eateries and sidewalk cafes. The ships tenders drop you off close to town so you can wander at leisure. Hire a pedi-cab for a 2 hour Urban Wine Tour and Tasting. Shop til you drop or stroll along Stearn’s Wharf.
Our last part was Ensenada, Mexico. I can hear some of you groaning, but honestly it was fine. I was content to pull up a lounge chair with a book, listen to a Coldplay concert on the big screen, relax and grab a short nap. While, some of the family headed into town for a cold Tecate beer and a little shopping, the report back was that the tourist areas are fine, plenty of police patroling.
The last day was a day at sea. Find a corner in a lounge and play a game, hit the library, lay by the pool and just relax.
If you live in the L.A area or So. California, this is a great way to getaway for a few days without having to fly. Came home rested, relaxed and ready to get back to normal life.
Bon Voyage and have fun.