jorjababygirl

I have contributed several times to the threads and asked questions of others and honestly was really not looking forward to our two week cruise on Celebration which was our 27th cruise and the first with Thomsons. I now write to say overall it was a great cruise in almost every way and comparable with P&O in many respects. Yes the lady is getting on a bit but we found her to be ellegant and very fresh after her refit and retains a certain character not present among some of the new high rise flats ships that hold thousands with everything available.

The negatives were ship vibration in some parts and unavoidable roll due to rough sea states at times. We had a great spacious cabin with balcony but there is not enough public room space especially at night and during sea days, areas such as the new coffee shop could be used better and the sports deck is a waste of space. The cabin safes are not secure as any key can open any safe so do not drop your cabin key which are not in the main numbered so okay that way.

The positives are many.

The food in every area was very good of a high standard with a wide choice at all times especially adding in the Lido outside presentation during the whole day and the pasta station at night. We had no issues at any time re service, quality, amount of food and never thought of paying extra for the alternative dining on offer.

The all inclusive drinks package had some limitations but basically there is more than enough on offer without an extra payment to suit anyone and the measures are extremely generous. It also includes juices and sodas and there is no problem asking for water but if you wish you can take onboard your own bottled water from local shops. Ships tap water for use in the cabins onced boiled is okay for making tea and coffee or to drink when cooled.

The entertainment was of a high standard in every area – the only down side for me was the new Cruise Director who was very enthusiastic but when he got a microphone in his hand was extremely loud and could be heard at the far end of the ship – louder than the 5 piece band! He would comment on locals looking out to see Celebration having a party – I would say it was more to find out where the noise pollution was coming from!

The biggest Gold Star is presented to the staff who were numerous and simply brilliant in all areas – but a special thanks to the Horizon Bar team who were first class and our cabin steward was always very attentive and readily available. We will consider Thomsons again in our future plans as we found the whole package of flight choice, cabin, AI, tips included at not much more than £100 pp pn to be excellent value. Enjoy!

Hello all experienced Thomson Celebration Cruisers.

My wife and I, both just about 60 years old, out on 14th Feb for 2 weeks on Celebration and have a cabin on deck 9 with a balcony. We are all inclusive and have only booked one trip which is in Agadir to the Cidadel of Taroudant and the shuttle bus in Fuertaventura, then just plan to do our own thing at all other ports.

Some great info within the forum but simply ask all who have experience of Celebration recently to please provide a "best tip" or two that would help us enjoy our cruise that wee bit more - it can be about anything from drinks, food, service, entertainment, best times for this and avoid that then, where to go off ship, bargains etc. As we are back to back cruises we visit all ports except Agadir and Fuertaventura twice so what we miss week one we can pick up on the second week but would like some advice re Madeira.

I have heard that service can be improved if a tip is given at the start of the cruise to cabin steward and MDR waiter for wine service (if you use the same table) any thoughts on this?

Jorjababygirl. ;)

My wife and I have just upgraded from a deluxe on deck 8 to a deluxe with a balconey on deck 9 at a cost of £161pp per week.:p

Understand balconies to be fitted in a German boat yard early December.

We are booked for two weeks in Feb and today were contcted by Thomsons to ask if we would like to move from a deck 8 delux to a deck 9 delux with a balcony for a cost of £161pp which we have accepted.:)