Cruise Virgin

I have been in the industry for over 20 years and travelled extensively but have never felt the urge to board a huge ‘crowded’ ship and sail the oceans. Even after specialising in cruise holidays in a previous job, doing many ship visits and training courses, meeting with suppliers and getting excellent feedback from my clients, who all absolutely love it, it just never appealed - but something recently changed and suddenly I wanted to try it out.

The industry changed, it has moved with the times, no longer do you have to dine with the same people at the same time every night (you still can if you want), no longer do you have to dress up in a ball gown (you still can if you want) and they are no longer just for ‘old people’!

I had an opportunity to check it out with Celebrity and it completely busted all the myths and preconceptions that I had. I sailed on Celebrity Silhouette from Southampton to the Canaries in October and absolutely loved it although I must admit it took a day or two to get into the swing of things. It did seem very busy on embarkation day and I worried I was going to hate it but once everyone settled into the cabins, found their own space, it was never overcrowded. There are so many quiet spaces on board, so many dining options and large deck areas you would never have thought it was a full ship.

Talking about dining, it was outstanding. Every meal I ate was exceptional, from the food in the main buffet restaurant to the specialty dining restaurants, we were spoilt! There is so much choice, from a slice of cake and a coffee in the afternoon to animation dining in Qsine (a unique concept I recommend to everyone, check out my video) and there are healthy options if you feel inclined. If you like a cocktail or 2 you will not be disappointed, the martini bar served up a fabulous espresso martini. The entertainment onboard was first class, they had modern shows, live bands and a silent disco that had the ship rocking!

But the thing I enjoyed most of all was sailing in and out of port, I can’t explain the feeling you get sailing out of a beautiful port at sunset, glass of champagne in hand and feeling all excited about the explorations you have just had and where you will be the next day. I would sit on my balcony watching the land get smaller and smaller whilst looking out for dolphins, (I was lucky enough to see them swimming beside us) it was so relaxing.

There are quite a few new ships for 2019 and depending on your preferences there is a perfect one for you. One to look out for is the Celebrity Edge – this will be modern luxury cruising at its best. This really will revolutionise modern day cruising, if you love contemporary hotels, outstanding food and amazing service (who doesn’t) Celebrity is for you, get in touch and I can tell you more about my experience and find the right cruise for you.