Day 85 - The Last Full Day – Gratitude, Goodbyes & Gentle Closure

 Our last full day on the ship… and I must admit, it feels quietly sad knowing that tomorrow morning we will be leaving. After so many weeks of life at sea, routines, familiar faces, and floating sunsets, it’s hard to imagine not waking up to this rhythm.



I awoke bright and early to a beautiful sunrise, with seas that were thankfully a little calmer. I stretched, showered, had breakfast, and then headed to my final talk from Skip, this time all about Sydney. It felt symbolic—learning about the city that marks the end of this extraordinary voyage.

Joe was also up early and ready for his facial, though his mind, like mine, was very much on the practicalities of what comes next. Packing was starting to loom large, so I made a proper start—sorting clothes for Sydney and London, and separating those heading back to Gibraltar. Thanks to Carlos, our complimentary Regent luggage forwarding was confirmed just in time. Even so, it’s clear we’ll definitely need another suitcase in Sydney!



I then spent time in the library for one final visit, doing my crossword and sudoku and reading quietly. It felt like closing a small but meaningful chapter—this space has been such a constant companion throughout the journey.

After a bit more packing, I met Joe for lunch in La Veranda, soaking in the familiar comfort of one of our favourite spots. Then it was time for something very special: watching the final two segments of the Grand Voyage video. Seeing the journey stitched together like that was incredibly moving, and receiving our own copy on a pen drive felt like being handed a treasure. I suspect there will be a few video-watching parties at mine in the months to come.

We then gathered for our group photo with the entertainment team, another moment that brought home just how many wonderful people have been part of this experience.




While I returned to finish packing, Joe headed off to trivia—and how fitting that on this final day, his team came first. A perfect ending. He then proudly went to collect his Regent goodies, mission well and truly accomplished.

As evening approached, Joe relaxed with his audiobook, but the weather shifted again and the ship began pitching, as if the ocean itself wanted one last word. I went to see the show—gentle, beautiful, and a lovely way to wind down.

We then shared our final dinner in Compass Rose, savouring every bite and every familiar smile. Afterward, it was back to the cabin to rest, knowing we have another early start tomorrow and that the journey—at least this chapter of it—will soon be complete.

🌿 Daily Reflection

Endings don’t shout; they whisper. Today was about gratitude—for the journey, the people, the growth, and the quiet moments that will stay with me long after we step back onto land.

⭐ Highlight of the Day

Watching the final Grand Voyage video—seeing our journey reflected back to us, knowing these memories are now forever ours to keep.

Comments

  1. Maria PalmaJanuary 22, 2026 at 9:40 AM

    I've enjoyed your daily encounters, really like I was part of the story. Enjoy your last day, and enjoy your time in Sydney.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. BJanuary 22, 2026 at 1:15 PM

      Thank you my love. I look forward to seeing you soon when I get back xx

      Delete
  2. Christina GiuffréJanuary 26, 2026 at 11:39 AM

    Look forward to seeing you again soon! Can't believe it's over. Have really enjoyed reading your adventures and thoughts. 🩷

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. BJanuary 29, 2026 at 3:03 AM

      Likewise I look forward to catching up with you when we are both back xx

      Delete

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