Ah, the final day of our first cruise of 2026—a sea day! The only one on this itinerary, so naturally, we were ready to relax, soak up the sun, and pretend packing wasn’t looming over us like a dark cloud.

Hubby and Lili had fancy plans: sushi lunch at Izumi’s, but before they left, hubby took Ezran for some guy time while Naomi, Arryn and I went for something more… athletic. Mini golf. Because nothing says “vacation” like trying to putt a ball up hills and past fake rocks while silently judging your own lack of coordination. Several other passengers had the same idea, so it was basically a slow-moving parade of people realizing they’re not as good at golf as they thought.

Next up: the pool and hot tub. And when I say crowded, I mean Black Friday at Walmart crowded. I’m pretty sure half the ship were in the pools and hot tubs. It was less “relaxing dip” and more “human soup.” Typical last-day cruise vibes.

Of course, the last day also means packing. Walking down the stateroom hallways and seeing all the luggage lined up for pickup? Instant sadness. What made it worse? This cruise was only four nights long—and on a ship we absolutely LOVED. Royal, if you’re listening, please put Utopia on a longer itinerary. We’ll be first in line, passports in hand.

Now… brace yourself for the photo dump!