The Pacific Sun Crew

The Pacific Sun was built in 1986, and with all the charm of the 1980’s, she eventually ended up moving Kiwi’s and Aussies around the Pacific, for bargain basement prices. Housing 1900 passengers for their sunny destination holidays can take it’s toll on many, but the workers on the Pacific Sun were the highlight of the ship.

From the room steward to the wait staff in the buffet, the people were amazing. We gained such a great deal of insight about how the other half live talking to the people on board. It takes a special kind of person to walk away from their family and friends to work on a ship, below decks, for hours a day. And I take my hat off to all of them. Finding out about the crew, where they came from, and why they were on board was fascinating, humbling, and just plain interesting.

On board

The decor of the Pacific Sun does bring back memories of “Gloss” or Adam Lambert music videos, the view is ever changing, and constantly stunning. The Pacific Ocean with the many blue hues, or green tones, is an ever changing palate of gorgeous. Staring into the distance became intoxicating. Watching the sun set in the evenings, or rise in the morning, or just listening to the waves beat against the sides of the ship, with only moonlight to see by was amazing. The inside of the ship almost enhanced the glory of the outdoors. After all, who wants to spend their time in a tiny bedroom when the whole ocean is outside?

The Pacific Sun crew certainly know how to throw a party. While on board there were numerous children, but they were all rounded up and entertained all day by the childcare crew. For the rest of us, there were cocktails, magicians, dancers, movies, pool-based competitions, nightly party themes, charity walks, or just sunning on the decks. It was hard work, but someone had to do it.

Tips for getting the most out of your voyage

Personally, I would recommend the skill-based workshops. While the dance classes were huge, and a little awkward on high seas, the circus workshops with the Pacific Cirque were fantastic. The tutors were experienced and patient, as the many juggling balls or spinning plates crashed around them. While I may never be able to run away and join the circus, I can happily say I am now a confident juggler!

Indulging in food and entertainment, and leaving the cleaning to someone else, can leave you feeling a little guilty. However, consciences can be salved in many ways.

Heading to the gym to work off those new calories is one way, but the more enjoyable method is to join one of the morning walking groups. Joined by over 100 people, the walking groups are a great way to meet new people, and see new friends at the start of each day. Also, the opportunity to participate in a charity walk on the final sea day can also make it feel less indulgent overall.

Another large piece of advice would be to find a space that makes you feel good. With over 2000 people on board, the ship can feel like a small place indeed. We loved to spend our evenings chilling out in the piano bar, while others enjoyed the spectacles on the main stage. Spending afternoons on the aft deck, watching the waves, counting the clouds or reading a book is total bliss, especially with overly attentive wait staff at ones beck and call.

With the wonderful people and exciting atmosphere, the mirrored stairwells and garish carpet will barely dampen the voyage.