Celebrating Sobriety: Our Cruise Adventure

To mark my 500th day without alcohol, my husband and I embarked on a unique cruise. I used to find traveling without drinking quite challenging, but now, I realize it significantly enhances my holiday experiences. I can recall more from my journeys and enjoy every activity with renewed vigor.

Surpassing 520 days without a drink feels like a major milestone. Back in my drinking days, it wasn’t unusual for me to finish a bottle of wine in one sitting or miss early gym sessions because of a hangover. Since I turned the legal drinking age, vacationing had always meant relaxation with poolside cocktails and patio rosé. One of my primary concerns during the initial phase of sobriety was how different my travels would be without alcohol.

Overcoming Initial Fears

Shortly after quitting alcohol, I set off on an expedition cruise for whale watching in Mexico, organized by National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions. While excited, I was apprehensive about the unlimited alcohol available on board. Surprisingly, staying sober was more attainable than I anticipated, although witnessing fellow travelers, my husband included, indulging during meals and at the ship’s bar was a test of resolve.

The saying that sobriety strengthens with practice turns out to be true. Since that first alcohol-free vacation, I’ve traveled to a resort in St. Vincent, ventured solo to London without a drink, and even confronted my fears at Florida theme park events without the aid of alcohol. As my husband and I planned a 500-day sober celebration—a cruise around the breathtaking Azores—I felt confident.

Discovering New Joys

Our journey through the Azores was an exhilarating exploration, stopping at seven stunning islands. We spent the days immersed in hikes, cultural walks, and explorations, soaking up local history and cuisine. The evenings were filled with lively group dinners that extended late into the night. The sobriety made every aspect so much more satisfying, imbuing it with a specialness I hadn’t experienced before.

Adventure trips like these are some of the most physically demanding I have ever participated in. From early morning workouts to climbing endless stairs on the ship, I was grateful for the newfound energy and strength sobriety afforded me. Waking without a hangover allowed me to fully embrace each new day of exploration and challenge.

Creating Lasting Memories

Previously, many of my travel memories were shrouded in the haze of one too many drinks. For instance, I vaguely recall a day in Florence with the aid of photos taken after indulging in numerous Aperol spritzes. But now, thanks to sobriety, I can cherish clear, enduring memories from every adventure, like our magical night spent under the stars in a glass igloo, watching movies on my iPad.

Sobriety has revealed the true essence of travel for me. Instead of focusing on when and where I’d have my next drink, my energy is now channeled into enjoying the fresh ocean breeze, testing the limits of my strength through various activities, and relishing local flavors.

A Bright Future of Travel

Reflecting on our previous cruise adventure when my sobriety journey just began, I wish I could assure my past self of the enhanced experiences waiting ahead. Finding joy away from the distractions of alcohol, I’m now more engaged, tranquil, energetic, and ready to soak in every moment, making travel more enriching for over 500 days and counting.