PRINCESS CRUISES: MY FAMILY AT SEA — MY ELITE JOURNEY #shorts

PRINCESS CRUISES: MY FAMILY AT SEA — MY ELITE JOURNEY From a first-time cruiser to Elite Status in just over a year—it’s been one hell of a ride! My journey started on April 17, 2024, aboard the new Sun Princess. We were there for the historic Naming Ceremony, a star-studded event with Carnival Chairman Micky Arison and the Princess President in the front row. But amidst the glitz, I noticed something missing: a formal tribute to those who served. So, I decided to “gather the troops.” Starting with Captain Paul Slight on the Island Princess, who honored his own father’s Polish Army legacy by hosting over 50 veterans on the Bridge, the mission began. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of honor and camaraderie: Sky & Enchanted Princess: Captains Lakkonen and Cirucci stood with us. Star Princess: On her inaugural transatlantic, we made history. A 98-year-old USMA ‘48 grad retired U.S. Air Force colonel Arthur Barondes finally got his Bridge wish, thanks to Captain Gennaro Arma. We even celebrated the 250th U.S. Navy Birthday with a flag from the Cruise Director and a cake from Ralph Dsouza (HGM). Sapphire Princess: Navigating the Andes with Captains Juresko and Ravera (a Naval Academy of Italy grad), who were incredibly accommodating to our group. Coral Princess: Ending 2025 with Captain Domagoj Cuculic, a Croatian Navy veteran who welcomed us for an exclusive New Year’s Day toast and exclusive veterans bridge tour. Beyond the ceremonies, it’s the people like Ronnel (Dining Room Manager) who reserved “Table 76” for us on the Sun and Star, and the incredible energy of the band Asian Soul that made these ships feel like home. To all my fellow veterans from every country: the Bridge is open if you lead with respect. Just gather the troops and ask! Thank you Princess Cruises for becoming my family. And to my brothers and sisters in arms—thank you for your service! #travel #cruise #cruiselife #cruiseship #PrincessCruises #MyEliteJourney #VeteransAtSea #sunprincess #starprincess