Imagine this: the world outside is a whirlwind of holiday stress – shopping lists, party planning, and endless to-dos. But you? You've escaped to a winter wonderland. You're a huge Hallmark movie fan and have passed that love of all things cheesy, romantic, and predictable to your daughters. You love Hallmark movies and original series so much that you've started a podcast with two of your daughters so you can gather weekly via Zoom and talk about all things Hallmark! What is it about Hallmark movies, you ask? They're like a magical portal to a simpler time. And Christmas? Hallmark knows the formula for a holly jolly holiday season. When you turn on a Hallmark Christmas movie, it's like stepping into a snowglobe where the smell of peppermint cocoa fills the air, snowflakes dance to and fro on the breeze, a handsome leading man clad in flannel and a subtle scent of pine reminds his childhood sweetheart of the beauty and charm of small-town living, and every ending is a happy one.
So naturally, when Hallmark announced they were hosting a Christmas cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines, I practically burst into a chorus of "Jingle Bells!" (Okay, maybe not literally, but my inner Hallmark heroine was definitely doing a happy little jig). Sadly, my festive frenzy screeched to a halt when I learned the cruise sold out in one day. Even with a second cruise added, those coveted golden tickets remained elusive. Defeated, I resigned myself to living vicariously through the online photos and videos of those lucky enough to be sailing off into a Hallmark sunset. Now, don't get me wrong, I was thrilled for them - truly! But let's be honest, there's a special kind of torture in scrolling through Instagram while muttering, "Must be nice!" and simultaneously drowning your sorrows in a bowl of peppermint bark. Okay, maybe that's a tad dramatic (what can I say, Hallmark's got me feeling all the feels!), but fellow fans, I know you get it.
Fast forward a few weeks. My daughter and Love on the Pod co-host, Jessica, arrived for a visit from out of state. We were chatting around the dining room table, when Jess suddenly announced, "Mom, I can't wait any longer! I have a present for you!" She popped up from her chair and dashed off to retrieve a small box from her suitcase. It wasn't near Christmas, my birthday, or Mother's Day, so you can imagine my confusion. "Just open it!" Jess insisted, practically bouncing with excitement. With trembling fingers (okay, maybe that's an exaggeration, but the suspense was killing me!), I tore open the package and lifted the lid. My jaw dropped. Nestled inside, like a precious gem, was a luggage tag for the Inaugural Hallmark Christmas Cruise! "I don't understand," I stammered, convinced I was hallucinating. "It's sold out! What does this mean?" Jess just beamed and said, "It means we're going, Mom! Surprise!" Turns out, Jessica and my husband Mark were in cahoots, those sneaky little elves! Jess had secured us a balcony stateroom, and though we had over a year to wait, we would be among the hundreds of Hallmark fans to embark on the very first Merry Cruisemas Christmas Cruise! I was so overjoyed my Hallmark-loving heart grew three sizes that day."
It was a long fourteen months between that magical moment and the day we set sail, but in early November 2024, the time had finally arrived! My suitcase was overflowing with a warm-weather Christmas wardrobe (because, priorities!), and I was ready to fly to Miami to meet Jessica for the cruise. There was just one tiny hiccup in my meticulously planned Hallmark adventure: thanks to a high-speed collision with our overly enthusiastic golden retriever, Henry (who, bless his heart, was just trying to show his love!), I'd be sporting a stylish pair of crutches for the duration of the cruise. For a fleeting moment, the thought of navigating a cruise ship with crutches while battling crowds of fellow Hallmark fanatics almost made me reconsider. But then my inner Christmas spirit (and maybe a little bit of stubbornness) kicked in. I was determined to go, come hell, high water, or torn LCL! After all, a little orthopedic inconvenience wasn't going to stop me from living my best Hallmark life!
Night one, we checked into the Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood for a good night's sleep after a full day of travel. (Pro tip: I highly recommend this! Nobody wants to risk flight delays jeopardizing their arrival at the port. Trust me, the pre-cruise jitters are enough to handle without adding travel nightmares to the mix!) We were too excited to venture out for dinner, so we opted for a cozy night in with poke bowls from Crazy Poke Miami, delivered right to our door. (Because let's be real, sometimes the best way to prepare for a Hallmark adventure is with comfy pajamas and delicious food). I savored every bite of my salmon over citrus kale, while Jess devoured her ahi tuna. Both were absolutely delicious! I can't believe I actually managed to sleep that night. The anticipation was like a child waiting for Christmas morning, only amplified by a thousand, with the added possibility of bumping into a real-life Hallmark hunk in the buffet line!!
When morning finally arrived (after what felt like an eternity!), we gleefully changed into our Hallmark-themed apparel. I proudly sported a red tee shirt from Etsy that declared, "In My Hallmark Movie Watching Era," while Jessica rocked a grey cropped tee with the iconic line, "That's Garland For Ya!" from one of our favorite Hallmark movies, "Christmas Under Wraps." (Side note: If you're as obsessed with this movie as we are, you can snag your own "Garland" tee from our web store! Just sayin'.) Fueled by anticipation and Christmas cheer, we grabbed our suitcases (and my trusty crutches) and headed off to board the ship that would become our floating Hallmark haven for the next few days.
With a little time to spare between checking out of our hotel and arriving at the pier, we decided to kickstart our morning with a caffeine boost at Panther Coffee. Talk about a delicious way to fuel up for a day of Hallmark fun! Jessica and I treated ourselves to Florentine breakfast sandwiches and two of the most decadent, Instagram-worthy lattes I've ever laid eyes on. After a leisurely breakfast and a caffeine-induced surge of energy, it was time to return the rental car and summon a rideshare to the port. Now, let me tell you, rideshares in Miami are an experience unto themselves. Let's just say we had a couple of very close calls with a car and a bus before we even made it to the highway! (Picture me clutching my crutches and offering up a silent prayer to the Hallmark gods for a safe arrival.) I practically held my breath all the way to the Port of Miami, but hey, at least it added an extra layer of excitement to the morning!
We arrived a bit early for our check-in time, but the moment the lovely staff at NCL spotted my crutches, we were whisked away to the upstairs lobby like VIP guests. (Perks of a temporary disability, I guess!) The lobby was buzzing with hundreds of excited cruisers decked out in their finest Hallmark attire. The air crackled with festive energy, and the grand Norwegian Gem stood proudly docked, awaiting the throngs of passengers ready to embark on five days of holiday merriment! As we waited for our number to be called, we chatted with fellow Hallmark enthusiasts, including the delightful Georgia and Susan from San Jose, California. We swapped favorite movie titles, gushed over the upcoming pajama party, and debated the merits of a silent disco versus a Christmas ball. (Spoiler alert: we were excited for both!) The anticipation was palpable. It was almost time to set sail for our Hallmark happily ever after!
Boarding the ship on crutches was a bit like navigating a Christmas tree maze during a holiday rush, but (for the most part) people were incredibly kind and accommodating. Jess and I were able to slip through the merry throngs and board with the other ADA guests and their cabin mates. As we made our way up the ramp, we spotted some of the Hallmark artists waving down at us from an upper deck, their smiles as bright as the twinkling Christmas lights adorning the ship. They seemed to be just as excited as we were, and that energy was contagious!
As we crossed the threshold into the Atrium Lounge, it was like stepping into a holiday dreamscape crafted by Santa's most talented elves. Garlands draped with shimmering ornaments cascaded down the grand staircase, framed by an enormous red bow that added a touch of elegance and grandeur. Crystal chandeliers glittered overhead, casting a warm glow on the festive scene below. Everywhere we looked, we were greeted by smiling NCL and Sixth Man staff, their cheerful greetings adding to the warmth and magic of the moment. Honestly, it was so enchanting, I couldn't help but get a little teary-eyed. It was official: we had entered a Hallmark wonderland!
Once on board, the staff kept things moving to accommodate the eager crowd. We snapped a few photos as we passed through the Atrium, but wanting to be respectful of the boarding process (and maybe a tiny bit eager to see our stateroom!), we decided to head off in search of our home away from home. The journey itself was a feast for the eyes! Hallways were decked with Hallmark holiday movie posters, and shiny red and green wreaths hung from every balcony like festive ornaments. Even the elevator doors were dressed for the occasion with snowflakes, ornaments, hearts, and trees in jolly shades of red, green, gold, and pink! And those banquettes lining the outer walkways? Each one was adorned with a set of brightly colored Hallmark Christmas Cruise pillows. (At least for the first day...but more on that little mystery later!) Honestly, it was like walking through a snow globe, every corner brimming with festive cheer.
As we made our way to the pool deck for the "Sailabration," we couldn't help but notice some rather ominous-looking clouds gathering overhead. The wind whipped through the air, sending the giant Christmas tree swaying like a festive dancer caught in a sudden gust. Our carefully styled hair? Let's just say the combination of wind and humidity had transformed our tresses into something resembling a Hallmark Christmas ornament gone rogue. But hey, a little windblown charm never hurt anyone, right? Besides, we had bigger priorities: snagging great seats for the best view of the festivities! Determined to soak up every jolly moment, we found a spot and settled in, ready to embrace the Hallmark magic, come rain or shine (or in this case, potentially both!).
As the ship pulled away from the port, a wave of excitement rippled through the crowd. We were officially on our way to a Hallmark Christmas adventure! And then, the moment we'd all been waiting for: the Hallmark stars took the stage, led by holiday host extraordinaire, Jonathan Bennett! One by one, they emerged, each greeted with cheers and applause. There were Tyler Hynes, BJ Britt, Kristoffer Polaha, Rachel Boston, Brooke D'Orsay (and her magnificent locks of golden blonde hair) Ashley Williams, Heather Hemmens, Will Kemp, Brendan Penny, and Hunter King, all radiating holiday cheer. The energy was electric as they led us in a holiday toast, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a joyous Christmas sing-along. "Can I get a HO HO HO? FA LA LA LA LA, LA LA LA LA!" (If you know, you know!) Standing there, surrounded by fellow Hallmark fans, belting out Christmas carols with some of our favorite actors, felt like a dream come true. It was pure Hallmark magic!
After the Sailabration, we were off to the Merry Gift Exchange, a ship-wide event where guests were encouraged to bring small trinkets to give to fellow cruisers. It was such a heartwarming idea – spreading Christmas cheer through simple acts of kindness! In theory, it was a beautiful gesture, but in reality, it was a tad chaotic. Let's just say Sixth Man might not have been fully prepared for the sheer number of enthusiastic Hallmark fans eager to share their Christmas spirit. The scene that unfolded resembled a Black Friday frenzy from the early '90s, with a sea of cheerful cruisers vying for the perfect gift to bestow upon a new friend. While the gifts themselves were lovely and thoughtful (we even participated in the gifting extravaganza!), the sheer volume of participants made it a bit tricky to truly connect with the recipients and gift-givers. (Side note: Many clever cruisers decorated their stateroom doors with stockings and festive decorations. When the Merry Gift Exchange became a bit too crowded, some guests opted to hand-deliver gifts to these stockings for a fun surprise! This is definitely something Sixth Man could encourage on future cruises to add a personalized touch.) But hey, even amidst the chaos, the spirit of generosity and Christmas cheer was undeniable.
Day two dawned bright and beautiful, our first full day at sea. As we sailed closer to the Bahamas, the clouds parted like curtains revealing a stunning backdrop of clear blue skies and sparkling turquoise waters. Gentle, warm breezes carried the scent of salty air and sunscreen, a perfect recipe for relaxation. Jess had booked us a stateroom with a balcony, so I started the day basking in the sunshine like a contented Christmas elf, happily immersed in my book, "Pumpkin Spice Cafe." At first sip, it tasted like a delightful blend of Hallmark romance and Gilmore Girls—cozy, charming, and full of quirky characters. But as I continued reading… whew! Let's just say there's a reason it's called a Pumpkin Spice Cafe! Things got a little heated if you know what I mean. Good thing I purchased an official Hallmark Cruise Water bottle to cool off! (But I digress… this is a family-friendly blog, after all!)
For breakfast that morning, we decided to try the Magenta Dining Room after a rather indulgent evening at the buffet. (Hey, a girl's gotta sample all the Christmas desserts, right?) The service was top-notch, and the food was delicious! Fully nourished and ready to take on the day, we set off to explore the ship, taking our time to soak in all the festive decorations. But as we wandered through the beautifully adorned hallways, we were met with a rather disheartening sight: nearly all the festive throw pillows had vanished from the banquette seating! The night before, those colorful cushions had added such a cheerful touch, and now…poof! Vanished like snowflakes on a warm winter day. A little detective work revealed that some guests had apparently decided to turn the pillows into souvenirs. Now, don't get me wrong, I understand the allure of a cozy Hallmark-themed pillow. (Believe me, I would have loved to snag a few for myself – or at least some slipcovers, since my suitcase was already overflowing!) But here's the thing: stealing is so not cool, especially when it comes to communal holiday cheer. Had those pillows been available in the merch store, I would have gladly purchased a whole sleigh-full! I'm not wishing the wrath of a thousand angry elves on anyone who pocketed a pillow, but as my wise mama used to say, "I'm not angry, I'm just disappointed." Let's spread Christmas cheer, not Christmas kleptomania, folks!
Day two held another exciting adventure: the premiere of the brand-new Hallmark Christmas movie, "Jingle Bell Run," starring the delightful duo of Ashley Williams and Andrew Walker! Seats were reserved in advance, which, with my trusty crutches, presented a slight logistical challenge. (Note to self: next time, call ahead and request ADA seating!) But honestly, any concerns about navigating the theater melted away the moment we were seated. Why? Because none other than Ashley Williams herself made a surprise appearance! Let me tell you, she is just as lovely and funny in person as she is on screen. (And even more radiant!) The whole experience was pure magic—watching a heartwarming Hallmark movie on the big screen, surrounded by fellow fans, with a real-life Hallmark star gracing us with her presence. It was Christmas magic!
Our afternoon film was followed by evening festivities on the pool deck. This time, we opted for seating on the deck directly above the stage, hoping for a full, unobstructed view. Unfortunately, the designated ADA seating was located directly behind the top of the giant Christmas tree, which, while beautiful, did obstruct our view for a good portion of the evening. Now, this is where I'd offer a little constructive feedback to the wonderful folks at Sixth Man: prioritizing seating arrangements for those who require ADA assistance is incredibly important. While I'm fortunate enough to not be on crutches long-term, I can imagine how frustrating it would be for guests with ongoing mobility challenges to have their view consistently blocked. Imagine trying to enjoy a Hallmark Christmas concert while staring at the back of Santa's head! My suggestion? Consider designating some prime ADA seating with clear sightlines to all the action. It would make a world of difference for those who need it most. This being the inaugural cruise, there are bound to be a few kinks to work out, and I have no doubt they'll continue to fine-tune the experience. Even with a partially obstructed view, I was still overjoyed to be surrounded by fellow Hallmark fans, soaking up the festive atmosphere!
The evening's entertainment arrived in the form of "Very Merry Christmas Match," Hallmark's hilarious take on the Newlywed Game, hosted by the one-and-only Jonathan Bennett! Co-stars BJ Britt & Heather Hemmens, Brooke D'Orsay & Will Kemp, and Hunter King & Tyler Hynes bravely took the stage to test their knowledge of each other, answering a series of questions designed to reveal just how well they really knew their fellow actors. Despite a sudden surge of high winds that threatened to turn the stage into a Hallmark hurricane scene, Jonathan did a fantastic job keeping the fans laughing. The co-star "couples" provided some truly hilarious answers, proving that even Hallmark stars have their quirky moments. And just when we thought the night couldn't get any funnier, an impromptu hula hoop contest broke out! Meanwhile, Jess and I, perched on our upper deck with a front-row seat to the wind tunnel, were practically crying with laughter as Jessica's hair whipped around her face in a Cousin It style frenzy. It was a night of laughter, camaraderie, and unexpected hilarity, proving that Hallmark knows how to throw a party, even when Mother Nature tries to crash it.
The holiday game show was followed by an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party, but by that point, Jess and I were ready to trade our reindeer antlers for comfy pajamas. (Hey, even Hallmark heroines need a break from socializing sometimes!) We were utterly exhausted from a full day of holiday hijinks, so Jessica, bless her brilliant mind, suggested the ultimate relaxation plan: room service! We ordered up a feast fit for Santa himself—a decadent cheese plate, perfectly baked tilapia with a medley of colorful vegetables, and not one, but two kinds of dessert. (Because calories don't count on a Hallmark cruise, right?) Jess indulged in a festive Mistletoe Mai Tai, while I opted for a warm cup of tea. Snuggled up in our cozy stateroom, we watched "A Jolly Good Holiday" with the kind of contented sighs usually reserved for the final scene of a Hallmark movie. Hallmark movies streamed in all the rooms throughout the cruise, so we took full advantage of this glorious amenity, enjoying many an evening with room service and heartwarming holiday films. It was the perfect way to recharge our batteries and prepare for the next day's adventures.
Day three brought us to the beautiful shores of the Bahamas! While most guests disembarked to explore the island paradise, Jess and I decided to embrace a different kind of adventure. With my crutches as my trusty steeds, navigating the crowds and sandy beaches seemed a bit daunting. Instead, we opted to stay on board and take advantage of the empty ship. It was the perfect opportunity to snap photos with all the Hallmark backdrops without having to battle crowds or endure long lines. One thing to note for future cruisers: when the ship is in port, the duty-free shops and paid dining venues are closed. But fear not, fellow foodies! We started our day with delicious made-to-order omelets at the buffet, where we were thoroughly entertained by the kitchen staff's infectious good mood. They were joking with guests, singing along to Christmas carols, and generally spreading holiday cheer like confetti.
The crew also conducts weekly safety drills while in port, which, as it turned out, worked to our advantage. Jess and I found ourselves temporarily "trapped" in an elevator lobby as they tested the watertight doors. And who should step off the elevator at that very moment? None other than Jonathan Bennett, Jaymes Vaughan, BJ Britt, Tyler Hynes, Rachel Boston, Will Kemp, Hunter King, and Brendan Penny! Talk about an unexpected meet-cute!
From our impromptu elevator encounter, we floated down to the Magnum Champagne Bar. There, amidst the soft glow of holiday lights and the peaceful quiet (not even the clink of a champagne glass to be heard!), we found a quiet corner nestled beside the "Holiday Touchdown" backdrop. It was the perfect spot to record an episode of our Love on the Pod podcast! The ship was eerily quiet like Santa's elves had taken a holiday break, leaving only the gentle hum of Christmas music in the air. It felt almost surreal to have this festive haven all to ourselves. Living in different states, we usually record our podcast via Zoom, so it was a real treat to record in person, surrounded by all the Hallmark holiday magic. (And without the occasional barking dog or doorbell interrupting our witty banter!) It was a special moment of connection and creativity, fueled by Christmas spirit and the joy of sharing our love for all things Hallmark.
The evening's schedule was jam-packed with festive fun, including a pajama party! (Because who doesn't love an excuse to wear cozy PJs in public?) We headed back to our stateroom to change into our finest flannel jammies and then ventured out to the pool deck to stake out prime seats for "Finding Mr. Shipmas," the cruise's very own version of Hallmark's "Finding Mr. Christmas" reality show. As I was resting my weary leg on a nearby chair, a woman approached us with a rather unusual request. "Are those Dearfoams?" she asked, her eyes fixed on my slipper clad tootsies. "Do you mind if I take a picture of your feet?" Jess and I exchanged bewildered glances. Had we accidentally wandered into a Hallmark foot fetish convention? Thankfully, the woman quickly clarified, explaining that she worked for Hallmark and was documenting guests sporting their complimentary Dearfoam slippers. You see, the kind folks at Dearfoam had generously gifted every cruiser with a pair of their choice. (One of many delightful surprises from the Hallmark gods!) I must admit, the whole "foot pic" request caught me completely off guard. I mean, I've never been asked to pose for a close-up of my toes before!
As we sat there sipping our beverages (Jess in her Polar Express PJs and me in my Old Navy gingerbread ensemble, which, by sheer coincidence, happened to be the exact same pajamas worn by Hunter King—stars, they really are just like us!), we chatted with fellow cruisers and waved to the ships docked on either side of us. A massive Carnival ship loomed over the Norwegian Gem like a curious giant, its passengers lined up along the upper deck, their faces pressed against the railing like kids peering into a toy store. They were clearly intrigued by the Christmas party in full swing in early November, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Hallmark stars who would soon be taking the stage. Alas, the Carnival ship had to depart before the night's festivities commenced, missing out on all the fun. But as they sailed away, the Gem's DJ cranked up the Christmas tunes, and we waved goodbye with a hearty "Merry Christmas to all!" Mariah Carey's iconic "All I Want for Christmas is You" blasted through the speakers, a triumphant anthem of holiday cheer echoing across the water.
And then, it was time for the main event: "Finding Mr. Shipmas"! Six brave souls, pre-selected for their Christmas spirit (and perhaps their willingness to make fools of themselves on stage), took on a series of challenges designed to test their Hallmark-worthiness. Hosted by the ever-charming Jonathan Bennett, with the lovely Rachel Boston and Brooke D'Orsay as his co-hosts, the contestants faced a gauntlet of festive tasks. There was "Golden Hula Hoops" (because apparently, mastering the hula hoop is a prerequisite for Christmas romance), "Santa Limbo" (where flexibility was key, both physically and metaphorically), and a hot cocoa-making challenge that tested their culinary skills. But the absolute highlight of the evening was the Hallmark acting challenge. Each contestant was paired with a "leading lady" and given the task of wooing her with their best Hallmark charm, convincing her to fall head over heels and stay in their quaint hometown forever. (Cue the dramatic music and longing glances!) The men's acting skills were surprisingly impressive, with some delivering lines that would make even Andrew Walker proud. Their interactions with their leading ladies were pure comedic gold, filled with awkward moments, cheesy pick-up lines, and heartfelt declarations of love.
After "Mr. Shipmas" wrapped up, we snagged some comfy seats in the Atrium to watch a simulcast of the "Holiday Touchdown" panel with the dreamy Tyler Hynes, the charming Hunter King, and the talented writer Julie Sherman Wolfe. While we would have loved to attend the in-person event in the Starlight Theatre, the line to get in was longer than Santa's Christmas Eve delivery route! To secure a spot, we would have had to queue up at least an hour beforehand, which meant missing out on the hilariously entertaining "Mr. Shipmas" competition. (And let's be honest, those hula-hooping Hallmark hopefuls were not to be missed!) So, we opted for the simulcast, which allowed us to enjoy the entertaining panel discussion while still catching our breath and reflecting on the previous events. (Plus, the Atrium had comfy chairs and a conveniently located bar—always a bonus!) It was a win-win situation, proving that sometimes, the alternative route can be just as enjoyable as the main attraction. (Just like in a Hallmark movie where the heroine realizes the unexpected detour leads her to true love!)
As the evening wound down, the pool deck transformed into a sea of pajamas for the "Jingle All the Way" Pajama Party This was followed by a late-night Silent Disco, which, sadly, we had to miss. Navigating a crowded dance floor on crutches with a weary leg was not exactly my idea of a good time. (Plus, let's be honest, the Nana in me was starting to crave a cup of chamomile tea, a slice of cake, and a good Hallmark movie marathon.) Hey Hallmark, here's a thought: schedule some events for us early birds! I'm talking 7:00 AM cookie decorating, complete with frosting, sprinkles, and Christmas carols. Or how about a 9:00 AM dance party with Santa hats, jingle bells, and enough holiday cheer to wake up even the sleepiest Scrooge? I'd be there with bells on (literally)! But until then, you'll find me tucked away in my stateroom by 9:00 PM, happily munching on a cheese platter and indulging in a Christmas movie marathon.
Day four dawned, casting a bittersweet glow over the ship. It was our final day at sea, and a touch of melancholy mingled with the lingering Christmas cheer. But hey, we weren't going to let a little thing like impending departure dampen our spirits! We kicked off the day with a hearty breakfast at O'Sheehan's Pub, fueling up with delicious food and a much-needed Starbucks latte. (Because even Hallmark heroines need a caffeine fix now and then.) As we strolled through the Atrium, we stumbled upon a jolly guest dressed as Santa Claus himself! Of course, we couldn't resist snapping a quick photo with the merry fellow.
Throughout the cruise, we were consistently touched by the kindness and generosity of everyone we met. People were always happy to hold my crutches while we posed for photos, patiently ensuring I had my balance before letting go. (Seriously, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more cheerful and supportive group of people.) Ladies were constantly complimenting each other on their festive outfits, spreading joy and confidence wherever they went. And the Hallmark husbands? Well, they found their own haven of camaraderie and support in the sports bar, bonding over football, laughter, and perhaps a shared sense of relief that they weren't the ones navigating the ship in heels. It truly was a magical atmosphere, filled with kindness, laughter, and the genuine warmth of the Christmas spirit.
Day four was just as jam-packed as the others, but one of the highlights (and perhaps the most nerve-wracking) was our photo op with the Hallmark stars. When our group's time slot arrived, we gathered in the Bliss Lounge, buzzing with anticipation and practicing our best "red carpet" smiles. We settled in for what we assumed would be a lengthy wait, envisioning ourselves growing old and gray amidst a sea of fellow Hallmark fanatics. But then, a miracle occurred! A woman from Sixth Man announced that anyone with mobility issues would be escorted downstairs via a private elevator and whisked to the front of the line! Suddenly, those crutches felt less like a burden and more like a VIP pass. We were then escorted to the Grand Ballroom, where the artists awaited, patiently posing as guest after guest arrived for their fleeting moment of fame.
Once downstairs, the whole experience became a whirlwind of organized chaos. To ensure all 2,900 guests received their coveted group photo, the line moved with the efficiency of Santa's workshop on Christmas Eve. No chit-chat, no selfies, no time for impromptu serenades of "Jingle Bells." As the stars stood on a platform, radiating Hallmarkian perfection, guests were called in by stateroom, directed to stand on a designated "X," and then subjected to a rapid-fire "click, click" of the camera. It was all over in a flash. I hobbled in on my crutches, attempting to exude a confidence I certainly didn't feel, with Jess by my side offering moral support (and perhaps a subtle elbow nudge to remind me to smile). Jonathan Bennett greeted us with a dazzling smile, and Tyler Hynes offered a friendly "Hello." I had just obediently taken my spot on the "X" and fixed my gaze on the camera when I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was Brendan Penny, his face etched with concern. "What did you do to your leg?" he inquired with genuine sympathy. I explained my unfortunate encounter with my overly enthusiastic golden retriever, to which he responded with a flurry of concerned questions: "Oh no! Are you okay? Did you tear your ACL?" (It's actually my LCL, but thanks for asking, Brendan!) "Are you going to need surgery?" I was so touched by his genuine concern that I momentarily forgot we weren't supposed to engage in casual conversation with the talent. (Oops!) I vaguely remember a Sixth Man staff member clearing their throat and redirecting our attention to the camera. In my head, I wanted to retort, "Just a minute, please! Brendan and I are having a moment!" But alas, I dutifully obeyed, and two clicks of the shutter later, it was over. Kristoffer Polaha and Brooke D'Orsay offered a quick "Goodbye and thanks for coming," someone handed me my crutches, and just like that, our brief encounter with Hallmark royalty concluded. I prayed my eyes were open in the photo - there would be no do-overs!
The afternoon brought a new wave of excitement with "Festive Feud," a Hallmark-ified version of the classic game show "Family Feud." Six Hallmark stars and four brave cruise guests (who were either incredibly confident or had a healthy dose of "why not?" in their system) formed teams to compete for the coveted title of Festive Feud Champions. The game was a riot, with uproariously funny survey questions, all centered around the most wonderful time of the year. Once again, the incomparable Jonathan Bennett took the reins as host, his quick wit and infectious energy keeping the audience in stitches. (Seriously, is there anything this man can't do?) The whole event was a festive explosion of laughter, friendly competition, and good-natured ribbing, proving that Hallmark knows how to put a holiday spin on even the most classic game shows.
But one event took the cake for the most laughter-inducing activity of the entire cruise: "Scene for the Season"! This uproarious improv session enlisted the talents of all ten Hallmark actors, with the ever-entertaining Jonathan Bennett once again at the helm. Writer Julie Sherman Wolfe had crafted a scene for the artists to act out, but with a hilarious twist: each actor was assigned a quirky character trait unlike anything they'd ever played before! Imagine this: Kristoffer Polaha transformed into a washed-up (but still undeniably handsome) 90s boy band singer clinging to his faded glory. Tyler Hynes became a self-proclaimed social media influencer with a whopping (almost) 1,000 followers, desperately seeking that elusive blue checkmark. Will Kemp, the former high school football star, relived his glory days with an endless supply of "back in my day" stories and questionable athletic maneuvers. And let's not forget Rachel Boston, the mean girl of the group delivering her lines with an exaggerated vocal fry that could curdle eggnog. And then there was BJ Britt, secretly Santa Claus himself, trying to maintain his undercover identity while spreading holiday cheer (and perhaps a few "ho-ho-hos"). Each Hallmark artist fully committed to their ridiculous roles, embracing the absurdity with gusto. The result? A hilarious romp unlike any Hallmark movie we've ever seen! It was like "A Christmas Carol" collided with "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" and then got sprinkled with a generous dose of holiday magic. We were practically crying with laughter, our cheeks aching from the sheer joy of it all.
From the uproarious laughter of "Scene for the Season," we transitioned to a more intimate setting: the "Behind the Scenes" panel discussion. Here, we got a glimpse into the real-life personalities of Will Kemp, Rachel Boston, Hunter King, Brendan Penny, and Ashley Williams. It was fascinating to see these talented actors outside of their scripted roles, revealing their genuine selves with humor and candor. Will and Hunter, both captivating on screen, proved to be a bit more reserved in person, their quiet charm adding a touch of intrigue. Ashley, on the other hand, was every bit as outgoing and hilarious as the characters she portrays, her infectious energy lighting up the room. The panel was moderated by Erin Jensen from USA Today, who guided the conversation and kept the audience engaged. Lucky members of the crowd even got to participate in a Q&A session, asking their burning questions and receiving insightful (and often humorous) answers from their favorite Hallmark artists. It was a delightful opportunity to connect with the stars on a more personal level, gaining a deeper appreciation for their talent and their genuine passion for storytelling.
After a whirlwind day of festive fun, it was time to prepare for the grand finale: the Christmas Ball! Jess and I dashed back to our stateroom, transforming ourselves from casual cruisers to elegant belles of the ball. (Cue the montage of hairspray, glitter, and frantic searches for the perfect shade of lipstick!) We donned our shimmering gowns, styled our hair, and emerged ready to bid adeiu to our Hallmark adventure. Arriving on the pool deck, we were greeted by a scene straight out of a Hallmark fairytale. The stars twinkled overhead, Christmas lights shimmered, and festive music filled the air. And then, the moment arrived: the Hallmark royalty, exquisitely dressed in their finest attire, descended the staircase. The crowd parted like the Red Sea, creating a path for these visionaries of holiday cheer. They ascended the steps to the stage, where the majestic Christmas tree, adorned with a thousand twinkling lights, was lit one last time. It was a truly magical moment, a culmination of all the joy, laughter, and Christmas spirit we had experienced throughout the cruise. As the music swelled, we couldn't help but feel grateful for this unforgettable Hallmark adventure.
Words can't fully capture the joy and wonder of that inaugural Hallmark Christmas Cruise. From the moment we stepped onto the ship, we were enveloped in a world of festive enchantment. Every corner sparkled with holiday magic, from the exquisitely decorated hallways to the twinkling lights adorning the pool deck. The staff, with their cheerful smiles and genuine warmth, made us feel like cherished guests in a cozy Christmas village. We forged new friendships with fellow Hallmark enthusiasts, sharing laughter, stories, and a mutual love for all things heartwarming and festive. And the Hallmark actors? They weren't just talented performers; they were kind, approachable, and genuinely excited to share this experience with their fans. They truly embodied the spirit of Christmas, spreading joy and generosity wherever they went. Yes, there were a few minor hiccups along the way (ahem, stolen pillows and obstructed views), but those were mere snowflakes on a mountain of holiday cheer. The Inaugural Hallmark Christmas Cruise was an unforgettable experience, a magical journey shared between a mother and daughter, and 2,900 newfound friends. There may be other Hallmark cruises in the future, but we'll always hold a special place in our hearts for being part of the very first. And that, my friends, is a truly magical gift.
If you enjoyed this blog post and want to hear more about our Hallmark Christmas Cruise experience, check out our cruise reviews on Love on the Pod! Listen the the episodes here:
Show your cruise spirit with our exclusive HO HO HO crewneck! This comfort colors soft sweatshirt comes in three colors and sports Jonathan Bennett's iconic "Can I get a HO HO HO?" on the front and "FA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA" on the back! Check out our Love on the Pod shop and get your sweatshirt here!
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