Cruising around the Caribbean
It was two years ago when I was invited down to Southampton for a ship inspection aboard Celebrity Silhouette. A typical ship inspection includes a walk around a selection of room types; inside rooms right through to penthouses, a glimpse in the restaurants with one restaurant usually providing a delicious meal, same as a guest would experience and the chance to see first-hand all the facilities onboard which include bars, art gallery, shopping district, pools, spa, fitness area and a large entertainment hall to name a few. It is without saying each ship company caters for a different demographic and as a result the facilities vary to meet the demands of passengers.
It was this experience that prompted me to book my first Celebrity cruise, a seven-day Caribbean cruise during December (some winter sun) and the second was a little closer to home taking in the Western Mediterranean. During a cruise, the great thing is you get to sample a little from each port of call, it’s a glimpse into the destination, perhaps taking in some main tourist sites or kick back and enjoy a now empty ship to yourself. I thought instead of talking about each destination, I would highlight the great features I enjoy about Celebrity Cruises which keeps me returning.
One of the most impressive features of Celebrity Cruises which truly captivates me is the glass elevators which provide access to all the floors mid ship and provides an atrium from level three through to the glass ceiling on level 15. The journey itself reveals tiny coves to escape with a book and curl up for some needed personal relaxation time.
Another excellent advantage I find on Celebrity Cruises is the renowned dining options from their complementary dining options to the additional purchase of specialty dining options, you honestly find something that truly impress. The main dining room is a great option if you enjoy the social aspect of cruising, dining on amazing food where menu changes daily and better still, the same people will be seated with you each night, making for some lasting friendships.
For those special occasions, I have been into a few of the specialty dining restaurants and Qsine must be my most memorable. Where else do you order spring rolls, which are served in springs, the Indian tasting board is served in a towering wooden grid, sushi lollipops are quite literally lollipops! The moment you walk into Qsine, the décor reveals you are in for a quirky and mesmerising experience which is quickly reconfirmed when you are ordered a tablet to place all your order, but warned you keep clicking on food and it will keep coming. Let me warn you, plan to eat big, it all sounds so amazingly good, it’s worth an extra inch on your waistline, even if it’s just to see how it is presented!!
One of the great things about being onboard a cruise ship, after dinner, it’s a quick dash back to your stateroom for a quick outfit change and before you know it your sitting in the theatre watching some spectacular entertainment, be it a Broadway style show, perhaps a comedian or a remarkable band for the night. Whatever the night, you can be certain there will be some great entertainment.
Strangely, sea days are amongst my favourite, don’t get me wrong, I love exploring new destinations, but nothing beats sleeping in, eating breakfast on the deck and gazing over the untamed blue ocean for as far as the eye can see. It truly puts into perspective how small we truly are. These sea days are perfect to utilise the pool deck and partake in poolside activities hosted by the enthusiastic and energetic entertainment crew. Perhaps a more relaxing day is in order make use of the Canyon Ranch spa onboard for some pampering. However, you choose to spend your sea day, this is your day to enjoy!
When I return home from my cruise, I know am I already counting down until my next cruise, 475 days to be exact, and I will be embarking with Celebrity Cruises exploring the South American coast taking in Rio for Carnival.