A Love Story at Sea: Why Princess Cruises Has My Heart

There’s something magical about being at sea — that peaceful sway, the endless horizon, the sound of waves kissing the ship. For me, it’s more than just a vacation. Cruising is woven into the fabric of my life. And it all started with a little show called The Love Boat.

Back in the early ’80s, I would snuggle up next to my dad and watch The Love Boat every week. I was just a kid, but I was completely mesmerized by the idea of cruising — the romance, the destinations, the joy. My dad passed away in 1983, when I was just ten years old, but those memories have never left me. Every time I board a Princess ship, I feel like he’s right there with me, smiling as we set sail together.

My dad Joesph Romeo Martin

Me, Daddy and little sis

Fast forward to 2007 — the year our family truly fell for Princess Cruises. We were on an incredible 21-day South American sailing aboard the Star Princess, and fate brought us to the same dining table as the Captain and his officers. They were so warm and welcoming, especially to our curious 8-year-old son. He was even invited to visit the Bridge — a huge thrill! He peppered the crew with questions and soaked in every detail. That cruise lit a lifelong love for the sea in him, and to this day, he still talks about it.

The Helm of the Orginal Star Princess

Another unforgettable moment came in 2023, when I got my first taste of MedallionClass on a cruise to Alaska, and I brought my little sister along for her first sailing. As someone who gets turned around in a shopping mall, I was blown away by how easy and intuitive the Medallion app was. It showed me exactly where I was and where to go it felt like having a personal guide right in my pocket.

Alaska with little sis

Now I’m counting down the days to another dream voyage. On December 1, 2023, my husband and I celebrated our 31st wedding anniversary aboard the stunning Sapphire Princess. We sailed for 34 days — because let’s be honest, 7 or 14 days just isn’t enough! What we love most about Princess Cruises is their longer, immersive itineraries that take us to off-the-beaten-path gems most travellers never get to see.

Princess Cruises has been part of so many chapters in my life — as a daughter, a mom, a sister, a wife… and now as a travel consultant, helping others create their own unforgettable cruise memories.

If you're dreaming of an escape where everything is taken care of, where the service feels like family, and where the journey is just as meaningful as the destination, Princess might be your perfect match, too.

Scenic Cruising through Antarctica

Antarctica on the Sapphire