Christmas on the Water

Have you done the Christmas Ship, yet?

The Holidays are here and whether you are in full Holiday swagger and skipping to work signing Deck the Halls, or if your …well…just not there yet – the Christmas Ship cruise is a great activity to enjoy. I took my family on last Wednesday's cruise from Poulsbo. We sailed the surrounding waterways which were lined with festively decorated homes and enthusiastic carolers. I must admit – it was a Wednesday night in what felt like a week that had lasted forever; the weather was downright terrible; my two young daughters were a bit sleepy and my other-half  had just completed a 2.5 hour commute home. Nevertheless, we quickly changed into dresses and a nice sweater (not necessary by any means, but suggested attire by my eight-year old) and headed for the dock. 

The ship was beautifully lined with Christmas lights and garland and you could hear the holiday music hum as you walked towards it. Once aboard, we were greeted by a few "elves", a warm boat, an unassuming caroler choir, and Christmas sweaters aplenty. Then it started to happen...we all started to feel just a bit jollier. As the fear of being stuck on a boat for 2 hours with constant festiveness started to leave my being, we settled onto one of the comfortable benches which lined the vessel. We all sat, talked and laughed about being there and it wasn't long before my girls were off looking at the gift shop for some sort of holiday fun item. It was amazing how the holiday mood just started to sink in – and no, it wasn't due to the glass of wine that I was enjoying - but it was due to my surroundings. Santa was there talking with the kids, young ones were dancing, and people were merry – everyone was happy. Not a typical sight with all the hustle that often surrounds the holidays.

So, whether I'm ready for it or not, the Holidays are here and this was two hours that was given to me to celebrate and enjoy them. Every year we do holiday things – gingerbread houses, cookies, looking at lights, shopping, and singing– but this 2 hour cruise felt like one of the best holiday things I've done in a very long time. It left me feeling full and grateful.

Upon departing, with a new Christmas ornament in hand and two giggling girls, I was so happy. Since then, I've settled in for the Holiday Season for what it is…a time to be with those you love and be thankful for the small things that bring us so much joy.

Port Ludlow – the Glacier Spirit is leaving the dock on Tuesday, December 16^th at 5:45, get your tickets here: http://www.pugetsoundexpress.com/whale-watching-and-wildlife-tours/christmas-tours-to-seattle/  or search other Argosy Christmas Cruises at http://www.argosycruises.com/dining-cruises/christmas-ship-festival/.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!