Join Ronan Ryan for the Season 3 finale of Port2Port.

This episode follows a guided shore excursion in Hirosaki, Japan, exploring the historic Hirosaki Castle, where we witnessed the main keep temporarily moved for foundation repairs. Stroll the serene castle grounds and take in the craftsmanship and history of this iconic site.

Next, step inside the Neputa festival float display, featuring intricately painted paper and wooden floats brought to life by the haunting sounds of a live shamisen performance. Experience centuries of Japanese tradition and artistry in one unforgettable visit.

Finally, our return journey to Tokyo, with a relaxing sea day contrasting the bustling city that awaits. This episode is a perfect mix of culture, history, and travel storytelling, and a fitting send-off for Season 3.

If you’ve enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate the show, share it with a friend, and come say hello on Instagram at @port2portpodcast or @travelcruiserepeat.

On this episode of Port2Port, I take you through our relaxed, go-with-the-flow day in Hakodate, Japan — one of the easiest ports to explore independently.

With no excursion booked, we stepped off the ship straight into the city center, wandered past fresh fish stalls and giant seafood tanks, tapped onto the local tram with our Suica cards, and spent the day discovering Hakodate at our own pace.

From shopping at JINS and Loft, enjoying Starbucks with a view, strolling the beautiful star-shaped Goryokaku Park, indulging in incredible soft-serve ice cream at the tower, and exploring the famous Red Brick Warehouses, it was the perfect DIY port day.

If you’re curious about visiting Hakodate on a cruise — or you just love hearing about smooth, stress-free travel days — this episode is for you.

Follow @port2portpodcast and @travelcruiserepeat on Instagram for more cruise stories, behind-the-scenes clips, and travel updates!

In this episode of Port2Port, I’m taking you with us to Busan, South Korea — a stop we explored completely on our own, without booking a single excursion.
We arrived into port under the stunning Busan Harbor Bridge before taking the free shuttle into the city and navigating the subway like locals.

From diving into the world of Korean skincare at Olive Young, to relaxing over coffee, to sitting down for one of the best traditional Korean BBQ meals we’ve ever had, this day had the perfect mix of culture, food, and relaxed exploring. We finished with a stroll around the waterfront before heading back to the ship, full and happy.

If you’re cruising to Busan soon — or wondering whether it’s easy to explore independently — this episode will show you exactly what to expect and why a DIY day in this city might be one of the highlights of your cruise.

Follow @port2portpodcast and @travelcruiserepeat on Instagram for more cruise stories, behind-the-scenes clips, and travel updates!