sealover155

We just heard from 2 different visa processing firms that this is correct- no visa required until April 1.  The official announcement coming soon.  I hope this is correct.

My thanks to the OP and all others who’ve responded with so much helpful information.  We’re moving on from Celebrity as well.  
 

We’re not opposed to change but frankly, the oft -mentioned irritants, sales pressures for specialty dining and spa products, crowded tables with leftover merchandise in the walkways, art sales and cutbacks everywhere all contributed to our decision.  On our last 15-day T/A I found myself tensing up and having to prepare a quick response to the dining pitch every single time we went to the Ocean View even tho we’d bought a 5 dinner package.  Overall we’ve loved every cruise with Celebrity.  We’ve made wonderful friends and enjoyed every port.  But our next cruise, next summer will be on Viking from London to Bergen.  
 

We carefully considered the other usual suspects, Seabourn and Silversea, (Crystal and Oceania aren't there in June) but in the end Viking won us over with a delightful 14 day itinerary that also includes 3 stops in Scotland.  And we love sea days which this also has. And, I suspect Viking will do a fine job with enrichment lectures etc. in Norway.  

For us, I think the 700-1200 or so passenger capacity ship will prove to be about right.  But we are open to even smaller ships if the itinerary appeals.  Overall we’re pretty easy to please as long as we’re on the ocean.

Again my thanks to all.  And very best wishes to the birthday girl and happy anniversary couple!

My thanks as well.  We were seriously looking at Silversa cruises.  But I'm so surprised to learn about the smoking issues.  That's a deal breaker for us as my retinologist has warned me about the dangers of second hand smoke for those of us with retinal disease, in my case macular degeneration.  Given the age demographic, you'd think Silversea would have addressed this.

We've had multiple, wonderful experiences flying Lufthansa from LAX to Germany and then onto other EU cities.  We've flown Business, FC once, and most recently their Premium Economy on their 380.  Frankly, PE was just fabulous as it's a private cabin with dedicated attendants and restrooms.  And very quiet.  If not using miles, I could not justify the cost of Business.  We talked to a passenger in regular economy and he was impressed as well.  As we are United Mileage Plus members we  consider Air Canada as well as they consistently rate highly in the annual competions.  But the connections in Toronto never seem to make sense on the routes we are interested in.  Also I'd rather fly non-stop to Europe when possible.  Do you check seatguru.com.  

Oh, Turtles06, so sad your review has come to an end!  Please promise to review all of your cruises.  This itinerary is definitely on my list as I adore Quebec City, have New Englanders in my family history and have always had a fascination with PEI, Halifax, etc.  And of course, those lobster rolls,  Here in Southern California we have the lobstatruck that visits my town once a week and they're decent but nothing like my favorite memory of the roadside ones in New England.  We miss the ambiance of sitting on a wooden picnic table next to the casual stand in the middle of nowhere.

Your review was the perfect balance of ship and port info.  And I always appreciate candid opinions.  So, thank you very much.

Suddenly I'm starving!!  That lobster roll and blueberry pie look fantastic.  So glad you found the perfect lunch.  BTW, do you think Becky's problem was the untraditional roll?  Aside from the flavorless lobster, of course.  That thick hot dog roll should be kept for sausages, etc.

Your pictures and commentary are both beautiful and helpful, so thanks again for such a substantive review.

Many thanks for such a thoughtful and substantive review.  As others have said it's greatly appreciated. I agree that the the new colors scheme is attractive and peaceful.  And I'm thrilled about the new showers!

But, the design flaws are inexcusable.  My guess is there is a preponderance,  of staterooms occupied by at least one woman.  The decision to not have a mirror above the desk/vanity is absurd.  Hopefully that will be remedied.

Whoever made the decision to eliminate coffee tables inside the rooms and to decrease the size of balcony tables has most likely not sailed on a ship or at least not on an itinerary with more than 1 or 2 sea days.  It can be assumed that management would prefer their guests get out their staterooms as much as possible.

Please explain where will my husband and I play backgammon or scrabble or enjoy room service or put our beverages while reading.  Where will we put the flower arrangements we always order?  Will we have to schlepp a folding table along with footrests (hopefully the rumors that they're coming back are true) along with our luggage like the Beverly Hillbillies?!?  And, how often will coffee cups and beverage glasses be spilled on the carpet when they are placed on the floor due to no table?

Style, albeit questionable, over substance comes to mind.  

The change to Tuscan on M class ships was a deal-breaker for us.  

No way does Tuscan approximate the experience or make the expense worth it.   Italian steak houses are a dime a dozen in today's restaurant world.  The Murano-like restaurants were one of the few remaining aspects that set Celebrity apart from their competitors.  They were settings for very special occasions, or just a change from the MDRs, Blu, or Luminae.

We haven't stepped foot on an M class since the change.

Paul - Many thanks for another fabulous review.  I always appreciate how thorough and opinionated you are!  Seriously, the real value here is your honest, candid thoughts.  Edge sounds like an amazing and innovative experience.  I just love that you and Edward experience so many aspects of the ship.  Thanks for the gorgeous photos, too.  Happy to hear that the wonderful service continues.  

From reading the reviews we're concerned, also raised by others, that there seem to be fewer quiet peaceful places to relax during the days as we usually choose longer cruises with many sea days.  Unless, of course you are in a suite and have access to the Retreat.  I think I'd miss the forward lounges on the S and M classes, and I hope the rumors of converting them into suites are just that!  Disaster!

Sorry your dinner at Fine Cut missed the mark.  The scallops sounded and looked divine though.  I noticed they featured Nueske bacon!  We've loved it for years and while it's available here in Southern California in upscale markets we find it's easier to order it straight from the farm in Wisconsin.  I just might make a wedge salad tonight with it. Curiously we discovered it at our favorite steakhouse in LA, the Pacific Dining Car.  

Also glad you highlighted one of our favorite reasons to cruise - the value of making new friends.  We have cherished, long time friendships whose joys are truly impossible to overstate.

So, I may have to change my Cruise Critic name to Chicago Mary Anne as my husband and I will be moving to Chicago this year!  After a lifetime in Pasadena we are anxious to be closer to our son and his family.  We are hoping to move to the Streeterville area so, who knows, we just might run into you and Edward in one of those steakhouses.  My current fave is Chicago Cut but we love em all.

Thanks again, Paul.

Hi Linda - Still following along and dreaming of a cruise to all of the islands you visited.  Just love all the nitty gritty details.  Do your children have a favorite island?  

Our experience in the Caribbean is a bit limited as most of our travels including cruises have taken us elsewhere.  I think we've only been to 4 of the islands.  Don't get mad but we're  moving to Chicago this year after a lifetime in Southern California to be closer to our family.  Since the Caribbean will be a little easier to access I'm hoping it won't be such a hard sell on DH.

Since  you asked, regarding Eastern Europe, put Krakow, and Budapest as well as Prague on the top of your hit parade.  From what you've said about your family I think you'd all be charmed.  Tell your husband that my husband won't go on a river cruise either.  Says he's not old enough.  And he's 76 but acts like and thinks he's 55.

Mary Anne

14 hours ago, SleepingUgly said:

 

Thanks for reading, Mary Anne!  That European vacation sounds amazing!  Where did you go / visit?  I have to admit, the first time I visited Europe (some 20 years ago), I had to pack light because the cars there are so tiny so I knew I couldn't lug all this luggage with me for our lengthy trip.  So I created an "itinerary" of my outfits for each day so I knew what to pack and what pieces went well with others.  I kept that list and my oldest daughter found it one day in the basement in some boxes a few years ago.  Scary thing is - she didn't think it was odd, she thought it was a great idea.  The apple doesn't fall far ... 🙂

 

Thanks again for reading, and have a cocktail (or two) for me!

 

Linda

  

Hi Linda!

Since my FIL was of Czech heritage and we all have funny Czech surnames, the Czech Republic was the big motivation and destination for the trip.  But first we wanted a more relaxing and recreational experience.  We decided on the Salzkammergut area just outside Salzburg where we could relax, go boating, hiking and swimming while being within striking distance of Salzburg and all of its treasures.  The village of  St. Wolfgang is a picture postcard and the luxury White Horse Inn actually has a floating-in-the-lake swimming pool.  That turned out to be a huge hit.

From there we hired a van and driver to go to Prague via Cesky Krumlov, fulfilling the little one's wish for castles. But we were all enchanted.  

We spent about a week in Prague, a return visit for my husband and me but the first for my son's family.  We hit all the highlights but included a visit to the wonderful zoo and enjoyed a boat ride on the river.  Since we were a group of six it made sense to hire a private guide for the castle and other historical sights.  We struck gold with our guide who researched the family name and birthplace (Bruno) of my FIL.  We wound up hiring her and her driver to take us there on an all-day trip.  Our original plan was to take the train and explore on our own.  This turned out to be a highlight none of us will ever forget.  So, being flexible is always a good idea.

My husband and I continued onto Berlin for a week and then back to Austria for another week before returning home. The little ones needed to go home to the Chicago area as school was starting.

BTW, so glad you enjoyed our favorite ship.  We've sailed her twice , both transatlantics and they had to literally force me off the ship both times!

Mary Anne

I'd like to add my thanks for such an informative and fun report.  That you and your fabulous family experienced so many aspects of the cruise experience adds so much value.  

Throughout my my life as a parent, and also as a daughter I've adored family vacations.  In 2017 my husband and our son and his family and I had an epic trip to Europe.  Think, big anniversary.  All but my then 6 year old grandson had been to Europe many times.  Due to his age and that of his sister, age 9, we knew we had to satisfy all expectations - lots of castles, please Mimi, and hilltops to twirl on like Maria in Sound of Music.  I thought my year of planning was exquisite and detailed but now, after reading your review I realize I'm just a rookie!!!  The image of that calendar will live in my memory forever!!  

All worth it, of course as I'm sure you agree, travel and experiencing different  cultures and history will help to create  curious and compassionate young people.

Again, my profound thanks.  Your charming and often hilarious take has made our cocktail hour very entertaining the last few days.  

Mary Anne

Yes, we both had the Pneumonia vaccine, which like most vaccines is not 100% effective preventing disease.  Supposedly it lessens the effects.  Whatever we are still convinced vaccines are essential.  Curiously the first question asked was not whether he'd had this vaccine but whether he'd had the flu shot, which was yes.  

He thinks that he might have picked it up in the fitness center as he was suspicious of a machine he used a few days before.  Of course we both agree that the healthier and fitter you are, the better to fend off one of these bugs.

The examples of people coughing and sneezing irresponsibly never ceases to amaze me.  I fear for those who are immo- compromised or otherwise more vulnerable.

I detailed our story mostly to compliment the Medical Staff but also to let you know that if our experience is how all guests are treated, you can rest easy.  My husband kept saying, "What if this happened when we were in a hotel in Borneo?!?"

Yes!  We watched the Mars landing along with most of Pasadena!  What a thrill and such encouragement for all involved with the space programs worldwide.

I neglected, to give a shout out to the non-medical crew who were so thoughtful and  kind during our ordeal:  The Asst. Maitre'd of Ocean View who graciously found a beautiful plate of fruit for me after most of the stations were being set for lunch- I'd missed breakfast and he sensed my dismay.  And our waiter in MDR who offered to deliver to our stateroom anything I wanted.  Those random acts of kindness meant so much.

Thanks so much for your review, thoughts, and ideas.  We, too, we're on this cruise and while we had an unusual (for us) event that impacted and restricted our activities  the last few days, we agree with most all of your experiences.

This was our first non-Aqua Class in 4 cruises and we were absolutely delighted with the MDR, from the food to the wait staff and especially our table mates from Germany and Australia.  Lots of laughter and wonderful shared histories. We also dined twice in Murano and once in Tuscan- all were very good.  I do agree with your comment about the heavy rich food in Murano.  This time I passed on the starter and just had entree and cheese.  I've finally learned that just because it's included doesn't mean that I should have it!  Our evening in Tuscan was wonderful once we convinced the server we really did want to order a bottle of Barolo even if his recommendation of "decent" red was included in our Premium Alcohol Package.  Our steaks were divine.  We never made it to Lawn Club (see below).

For me one of the highlights was the lecture series by Jim Kennedy from NASA.  I lived through those early and thrilling years of the space program from my home in Orlando.  Watching the lift offs on TV at school and then running out to the field with my classmates to see the vapor trails are indelible memories.  Such fun re-living those times but also learning about the Space Shuttle, etc. along with the future of space travel and exploration.  And, for many years we've lived in Pasadena, CA,  home to JPL so for us it was very special.  

The event mentioned above, was our first ever visit to the Medical Clinic.  After the breathtaking sail into New York my husband announced that he was not feeling well.  We went back to our cabin where he slept for the next 18 hours.  The following morning on our way to Bermuda we finally made our way to the clinic.  In retrospect I should have insisted on having the medical team visit him in our cabin.  On admittance he had a skyrocketing fever and dangerously low blood pressure, combined with profound fatigue- a scary situation even for an otherwise strong and healthy guy with absolutely no pre-existing conditions.

The care he received and the kindness and compasssion shown to me over the following 4 days were simply exemplary.  We were blown away by the skill of Dr. Fabian Dutan and his team.  As our business was in medical equipment we are very familiar with clinics, hospital ERs, etc. - we've been in hundreds of them so we were very skeptical!!!  No need as it was all top notch.  He is still recovering (turned out to be Pneumonia) but will be fine.  And luckily we, narrowly, avoided being disembarked in Bermuda.

Overall,  we are still in love with the Silhouette and she remains our favorite ship.  She's just a good fit for us.  We were not surprised to have a bit of rocking and rolling the first few days but we would have enjoyed more deck time.  This was our 6th T/A, and our second northern one but the sail-in to New York this time was exhilarating, complete with Frank singing "New York, New York".  Hopefully there will be more glorious crossings in our future.

Thanks to all who've shared their experience on this sailing but especially to the OP- very insightful comments and fabulous photos.

P.S. So glad you enjoyed Hamilton - it's really extraordinarily.

Many thanks, Paul, for devoting so much of your time to another fun and informative review. I just love opinionated reviews, so your's are always a hit with us.

I would like to know your thinking on additional tipping in specialty restaurants. I realize that none is required but I've been thinking that we probably overdue it. Also completely understand that more is sometime warranted and other times, not so much. Having said all that, with excellent but not over the top service what would you leave, if anything? This is, of course, apart from the sommelier. We will be on a T/A this fall and will probably have a multi-night package.

Again my thanks for the ride along.

Mary Anne

How special to have a honeymoon in Europe and to celebrate it on a cruise! Congratulations!

Regardless of stateroom category, the ship we choose is really important. With that said, I would urge you to strongly consider choosing one of the "S" class ships. My personal favorite is Silhouette but we've loved them all. My reason for saying this is Murano, which is just the the most romantic and special restaurant, and is, unfortunately now unavailable on the "M" class ships. We love the beautiful linens and stemware, soft lighting, etc. The experience is difficult to duplicate anywhere - very personal, elegant and delicious. If you dine there a couple of evenings they will let you special order for a future dinner such as Steak Diane. You will feel pampered.

I also think it's worth seriously considering the value of Michael's Club available exclusively for suite guests. With so many long port days, being able to relax and be pampered at the end of the day in an exclusive setting may be appealing to you. The Concierges there can perform a myriad of very special services- you may wish to do a search on this.

If you choose the "M" class, be sure to select Concierge Class or above as the standard balcony rooms are about 20sq. Ft. smaller than Concierge or Aqua and very noticeable. We have only experienced Aqua on "S".

Whatever you decide will be lovely. There is just no way you can lose! BTW, I'm an FSU gal too.

What a disastrous PR blunder.

To deliberately deceive their guests regarding the beef (Kobe?) is shameful from a company such as Celebrity. At least they have acknowledged the deception on this board although it seems they haven't changed the menus.

But to substantially alter the pool experience, (giving up lounge chairs, dining inside, looking for new pool chairs, etc.) especially for families, is significant and upsetting. Did they not think this through?

Thorough and complete market research, folks. Works every time.

Just love your tales, Jenna. You give wonderful candid opinions which are very helpful to our future travels. I well remember your review of the Asia cruise and the gutsy move flying on your own (with Dee) to Bali when Celebrity skipped the port.

Today I'm making hotel reservations for Hong Kong and I remembered you both enjoyed the Ritz Carlton. We only have a quick overnight there this time- have been there a few times before -but I'm thinking we should make the effort to go into town anyway.

We've never driven the Amalfi coast ourselves as we probably weren't brave enough to drive it but we just might try it next time. Happy to hear Hertz is just outside the port. I'd love to be on my own in Positano for a day. We did completely adore the hike up to Mt. Vesuvius and the guided tour of Pompeii. It really is indescribable.

The sandals are smashing, by the way. And, here I am wondering what to do about dinner and I see the picture of the fish with olives and vegetables- whatever I make will pale in comparison!!!

Better book another cruise. Looking forward to the next installment.

What makes you think that with him reporting to Perloff it will make a difference? I suspect she want's what she envisions Celebrity to be. Could it be that's why the position needed to be filled? The marketplace will determine if she is correct or fails.

 

Anyone remember the new Coke?

Good point.

Guess I'm just a "glass is half-full" kind of gal. Wish she (Perlo) or someone she listens to, would just get on a ship without rosy colored glasses and observe.

In another lifetime, I was in management for a major American airline. Part of my job was to occasionally check-ride the flights to ensure quality and consistency. Obviously that job went away but it was a time of a vastly improved service and guest experience compared to today.

I'm available to fill the position, but I won't hold my breath.

Perhaps their next new hire should be Director of Quality Control, which is obviously an open position.

"Modern Luxury" without quality and consistency is merely wishful thinking and in reality, a deception.

I do hope this new fellow thoroughly investigates the current climate of guest experience, all of the Perloff cuts, and pricing structures, before embarking on new campaigns.

We have had lovely and memorable experiences in most of the specialty restaurants. On our recent Reflection T/A, we dined at Murano 3 times, Tuscan twice, Qsine and Lawn Club once each. Only Murano would we consider exceptional in every way but we completely enjoyed the others as well and would certainly return.

But The Murano experience, or its M class equivalent, is harder to duplicate on land. I'm crushed that Tuscan has replaced it on Infinity. What we appreciate about this experience is the table side service and classic dishes with modern touches and plating. We always order the Dover sole at least once and it has never disappointed. We've never had anything other than stellar service. Overall ambiance is perfection to my eye, but I do miss the harpist! We spent our 40th anniversary there with our son and daughter-in-law a few years ago along with a magnum of Chateau Montelena Cabernet 1978 that we'd carefully cellared and brought onboard. The sommelier exquisitely decanted it for us and it was all a dream.

Regarding value, I believe they're all an extraordinary value. Murano, Tuscan, and Qsine perhaps more than Lawn Club, though.

What a dream trip and such a special one for both of you.

Having traveled quite extensively in SE Asia, including Cambodia, I have a suggestion for you: if you haven't already planned on taking moisture wicking trekking clothes, I strongly suggest you look into doing so. Ex Officio is the brand we like best and is available both online and in many sporting goods stores. My husband and I both swear by them and their shirts and slacks really saved the day for us at Angkor Wat and also on our trips to Laos and Northern Thailand.

In Siem Reap, do try to visit the Artisans of Angkor. It's an art school/work shop dedicated to preserving the national arts and crafts. The gift shop there is maybe the best of its kind anywhere in the world. You'll see stone carving, silk painting, wood carving etc. We shipped several pieces home and they all arrived without incident. They are among our very favorite travel souvenirs.

Regarding your flights, what a spectacular job you've done planning the combo of mileage rewards and good ole cash. One warning- once you've experienced the service on the Asian carriers you'll be spoiled for life!

Can I stow away in your suitcase?

Mary Anne

We adored our evening at LCG on Silhouette. The al fresco setting, food and service were all outstanding. The casual outdoor ambiance contributes to the relaxing experience.

Particularly memorable was our waiter who announced to us that he was from South Philly. We thought, "really"? Then he finally admitted, with a grin, that he was actually from the South Philippines! So charming but efficient as well.

Had we not waited until later in the cruise to dine there we would have gone more often. It's at the top of our list for our upcoming Reflection cruise.

Jenna,

Really appreciate the time you're taking to tantalize us all. The pictures are simply outstanding and your candid comments, so very helpful.

One thing for sure, they're certainly taking pains for outstanding and artistic plating. I've always felt that it elevated the dining experience immeasurably. I'm dreaming of that heirloom tomato salad. The quality of preparation must be largely due to "cook to order". But we must all understand that it will take time for the kitchen staff to get it all together. To the best of my knowledge all fine restaurants have "soft openings" to work out the kinks and Luminae is no different. So we need to be patient, as you and Dee certainly are.

Thanks again, Jenna. This may be my all time favorite thread!