Given it was the last full day of being on the ship, the main focus of our day's activities was packing.

But first it was off to the final Zumba class to bit farewell to Kim the instructor . Unlike every other class, this one started with a group photo for Kim’s and several other people’s scrapbooks. We Zumba’ed our way through the classics (noting that we only learnt about 10 routines) and then after sweaty hugs, we went our separate ways (at least until we ran into the people later in the day).

Next it was on to the main task – packing what seemed to have been more belonging that we came on board with. Given our cabin wasn’t exactly large and the process of packing would require space, we decided that we would take turns in packing. Since there was a lecture Mum wanted to attend, I took the first shift. I’m happy to report that it only took me 2 hours of solid packing to fit all my stuff and the various souvenirs into my designated luggage. I’m also somewhat happy to report that up until Mum finished packing, neither of my suitcases had been expanded.

After lunch, I was free to roam the ship, whereas Mum was confined to the cabin so that she could pack . She completed her packing in 3.5 hours and after some expanding of suitcases and shifting of clothes, we were all packed and ready for our final dinner on the ship. But before we could go to dinner we needed to move the luggage from the room, into the hallway. In my mind, the lining up of suitcases is kind of on par with public shaming – people walking along the corridor know exactly how much you’ve over packed.

We had our final dinner in the dining room and as the various courses were eaten, goodbyes were given. The night ended with the flicking of our serviettes as we cheered on the traditional Baked Alaska parade. Once again the junior wait staff and chefs took great pride in parading around the room to our applause.

Mum finished the evening at the nightclub saying goodbye to her posse but was in bed by a reasonable time.

Fun fact:
It is estimated that the baggage handlers will move around 8000 pieces of luggage off the ship. They’ll probably move about the same number back on to the ship for the next cruise.