Celebrity Beyond: Beyond Expectations

My cabin was one of the new-style Infinite Verandas, which gives you the option of creating a larger living space while still having what feels like a proper balcony. The bed was wonderfully comfortable and felt genuinely luxurious, while the multi-plug charging unit was an unexpected — and very welcome — addition.

The first time I walked into Eden, it took my breath away. Spanning three decks, it combines a bar, restaurant and living wall in a space that feels incredibly calm and creates a real sense of wellbeing.

Then, at night, it comes to life.

Immersive entertainment takes place around you, rather than simply in front of you, and the whole space transforms. It is utterly superb.

Usually, one of my favourite pre-dinner spots is the Martini Bar. On Beyond, they've gone bigger — and, in my opinion, better. There's more bar space and more tiered seating, making it a great place for a cocktail or aperitif. If you get the chance, try to catch the nightly show performed by the bar staff at least once.

Another favourite was the Sunset Bar, a two-storey sun trap that is about as comfortable as it gets.

I also loved the Sports Bar, particularly because it shows Premier League football. There's also a huge screen at the Rooftop Garden, so football fans don't have to miss out while they're away.

So many places to eat

When it comes to dinner, the main dining options are spread across four different restaurants — Cosmopolitan, Cyprus, Normandie and Tuscan.

But Beyond offers a staggering 32 food and beverage venues, including eight speciality restaurants, with two particularly exclusive options for those special occasions.

Quite simply, you are spoilt for choice.

Entertainment that takes things further

The theatre is another highlight.

It's a state-of-the-art space featuring three huge screens which add another dimension to the productions. One show I watched featured a soundtrack recorded by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, specifically to accompany the production.

Afterwards, I headed to an after-show performance in The Club, where once again you don't simply feel like you're watching a show — you feel part of it.

It's a level of entertainment that was genuinely different from anything I'd experienced on a ship before.

Sometimes staying on board is the best option

When we docked in Naples, many passengers headed ashore to visit places such as Sorrento.

I'd been to those destinations before, so I decided to stay on board and enjoy the ship while it was quieter.

At one point, I found myself completely alone around the previously unseen 25-metre pool.

It was one of those little moments that reminded me that sometimes you don't need to go ashore to enjoy a cruise destination.

Would I stay longer? Absolutely.

I was only on Celebrity Beyond for four nights, but I could easily have spent a couple of weeks trying everything the ship has to offer.

There's so much going on, yet the ship never felt overwhelming.

So yes, Celebrity Beyond really did live up to its name.

Beyond expectations.