So, I tried dating my wife again. Not in a “let’s grab tacos and talk logistics” way—but a real, intentional, phones-down kind of date. I booked us a Cherry Blossom Cruise in Washington, D.C., thinking: spring air, blooming trees, river views—romantic, right?
Well… the cruise was not what I expected. DJ? Loud. Food? Meh. Vibe? Chaotic. But honestly? It was one of the best dates we’ve had in a long time. Because when you get out of the house and try something new together, things click—even if it’s not perfect.
Here are 7 things I learned (with cruise moments sprinkled in), to help you plan your own “date your wife again” adventure.
1. Book Something That Gets You Out of Your Routine
The Cherry Blossom Cruise wasn’t something we’d normally do. But that’s exactly why it worked. It shook us out of our usual “Netflix and scroll” rhythm and into something totally fresh—even if the DJ made it feel more like a floating day party.
Pro tip: The views of the Jefferson Memorial and the Tidal Basin in bloom made up for the beats that had me questioning my age.
2. When the Appetizer’s Late, Laugh It Off
I ordered an appetizer. It came after lunch. I didn’t throw a fit—because I was too busy cracking jokes with my wife about how we accidentally booked “Spring Break on the Potomac.”
Dating your wife is about rolling with the weird stuff and turning hiccups into inside jokes.
3. Lower Your Expectations for the Food, Not the Company
Let’s be honest: the buffet was a solid 6/10. But we weren’t there for fine dining—we were there for eye contact, laughter, and uninterrupted conversation.
As dads, we spend so much time planning meals for kids. It was kinda refreshing to let someone else cook—even if the mac and cheese wasn’t gourmet.
4. Use the Scenery to Spark Real Talk
As we floated past cherry blossoms and the sun hit the water, I leaned in and asked my wife, “What’s something you’ve been dreaming about lately?” That view opened up a conversation we probably wouldn’t have had at home.
The cruise gave us space to breathe—and more importantly, to talk like we did before the baby monitors and preschool snacks.
5. Dress Up Just a Little (Even if You’re Still in Dad Shoes)
I wore a button-down. She wore a spring dress. It wasn’t prom, but it was enough to remind us we’re more than parents—we’re partners.
Being on a boat, even with a rowdy crowd and mediocre buffet, gave the whole thing a date-night energy we hadn’t felt in a while. You don’t have to go full tux, but show her this matters.
6. Take Pictures—Even the Awkward Ones
We got a selfie with the blossoms, a shot of our plates (buffet memories), and even one of us squinting from the sun. My favorite caption?
“That time we booked a romantic cruise and ended up on a floating club. 6/10 food, 10/10 memories.”
That one’s going in the family album. Trust me—document it all.
7. End the Date by Planning the Next One
As the boat docked, we weren’t ready for it to end. So I pulled out my phone and marked a Saturday next month. “We’re doing this again. Something new.” And that’s the secret.
Don’t wait until your anniversary. Make dating your wife part of your normal dad life.
📌 FAQs About the Cherry Blossom Cruise
Where can I book it?
Right here: Cherry Blossom Cruises – City Experiences
How long is the cruise?
Most cruises run about 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Is the food good?
It’s a buffet. I’d give it a 6/10. But honestly, you’re paying for the views and the experience.
Can I bring the kids?
Sure, but I’d leave them at home and make it a real date.
What’s the vibe like?
If you go during peak season, especially on a weekend, expect a lively crowd and maybe even a DJ. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, consider a weekday option.
Where does it depart from?
Most cruises leave from The Wharf in D.C., but check your ticket confirmation to be sure.
Final Thought: Make the Effort
Dating your wife again doesn’t need to be fancy or flawless. You just need to be there—fully there. Laugh when the music’s too loud. Hold her hand as cherry blossoms fly by. Make her feel like your girl again—not just someone’s mom.
