I cannot explain how much of a treat it is to be asked to take transatlantic journeys with Virgin on their ships. They have a no single-use-plastic policy which is HUGE for the cruise industry and, honestly, for the whole of the tourism industry.
I find myself cringing a little as I make my way to the ship and experience all the single use plastics in airports and on planes. It is such a relief to be on the ship and not have to worry at all about that stuff.
I took my fourth transatlantic journey with them this spring. The great thing about working with them multiple times is that there are lots of returning folks, whether their crew (who are so wonderful and really insanely good at what they do) or their sailors (that’s what they call passengers).
I loved seeing old friends from last spring’s voyage and catching up with them. Here are just some of the outtakes from our multiple sewing sessions. Yes, champagne was involved from time to time!
This time we created a narwhal portrait– you can see the final piece here. It turned out really cute.
I also got the chance to present my research project twice. It is fun to be presenting on a stage that typically hosts musicians and comedians. I love getting the chance to connect with the sailors and tell them about my work. Here I am in that famous entryway.
This time around my friend Julie got to meet us in Portugal and finish the voyage. We visited Funchal, Malaga, and Valencia (seen below from left to right), then finished up in Barcelona. Julie stayed and met family there for further adventures while I boogied home back to the family after my two weeks away.
All in all it was an incredible trip and I loved it so! Here’s to the next adventure with them!
Kat Owens 