We had a waiter quite a few years ago named Gede. He was promoted shortly after that. Seems to me we had a discussion with him about the significance of his name. My memory is pretty wonky these days, but it was something like Gede was the name for the third son? Did you get into that at all with your cabin attendant?
Glad to hear you made it back to California and that Iain apparently survived his encounter with the security folks. Thanks so much for doing another great trip report; I appreciate the time and effort you put into these reports. Looking forward to your next adventure!
Good question. The bartender in Michael's Club introduced me to this on a cruise in April, although there were only two versions. I did not see it listed on the drinks menu in the buffet. I suspect it may be something new. You could certainly inquire at the Elite Happy Hour.
Interesting. My understanding was that one could only do the match once. Have they changed that? Maybe I'll have Frank look into it for me. I did always love the entertainment in the lounge and that lounge definitely has the Retreat Lounge beat. And I do love their private island. I must admit those chocolate ships were a bit over the top. Beth brought me a bottle of prosecco from her last cruise with them. Just wish they had more interesting itineraries. Maybe one day I'll get over my hate for the Miami freeways. 😃
Kathy, my problem with MSC Yacht Club is that the price has increased a great deal, I've lost my diamond status due to not cruising with them for 3 years, and I absolutely hate driving to Miami! For you, I realize that's not an issue. I did enjoy their private island.
I agree. Really the only times I saw the kids was when I ventured to the buffet at lunch. They were all well behaved and seemed to be well supervised. But that's generally always been my experience with kids on Celebrity. Normally I take longer cruises, so don't see many kids.
The solo pricing hit is still alive and well in addition to items reported above. Example: Prime Concierge cabin for 2 on Summit November 10, 2025 is $4,121.74. For a solo on the same cruise it is $5,742.87. And they wonder why people are looking at other cruiselines. Or maybe they don't care.
I'm just off the Reflection on one of these 3-night ones B2B with a 5-night one. Definitely more kids on board. Our 5-nighter was the one that went to Coco Cay. What was interesting to me was that Coco Cay seemed to absorb the passengers well, it didn't feel at all crowded. We were there with one of the large RCI ships. Apparently they have two big RCI ships there sometimes.
Celebrity's e-mail setup is strange. I used to get these and then they stopped. I also used to get the PowerUp Points ones too and then one day they quit.
Room service must be lazy on E class. Yet another reason not to sail those ships. Trays in the hall on the floor are a hazard to those who must navigate by scooter.
I gave up a long time ago. I used to get the PUP e-mails and then one day they mysteriously stopped. The marketing stuff continues to flow, however. My best advise is to follow this thread. There is always some kind soul who announces that a new PUP opportunity has arrived.
My favorite part of that list is
-Not designed by Kelly Hoppen.
I have sailed on the Connie several times, including the itinerary OP is discussing. I'm a huge fan of the M class ships, although less so of the two that Ms. Hoppen screwed up.