A few early questions

[ChrisJess]

Good afternoon all, just found this site.  My wife and I never took a honeymoon as young poor newlyweds, then kids, blah blah blah, so I booked us a 6-night cruise on the Equinox in October ‘23 for our 15th Anniversary.  We have one of the veranda rooms with the larger veranda.  It seemed like a reasonable ‘splurge’ for the room without going too big on our first time.  This will be the first cruise for either of us.  Well, kind of.  I’ve been Active Duty Navy for 15 years, so I’ve done plenty of long cruises, but I assume this particular one should be a little different than what I’m normally used to.  I’m reading through the posts and enjoying all of the great information.  I do have a few questions, though.

 

1.  ‘First Night’ discounts for dining?  Is there any reason not to choose this?  The only option I found to book Murano was on the first night.  We also booked Tuscan for the 5th night.
 

2.  Ages?  I hear that Celebrity trends older, and honestly, this is a reason we chose it.  I’ll be 40, she’ll be 38, when we cruise.  We are NOT looking for a spring break style atmosphere full of passed out drunk 20-something’s, but still a lively but laid back atmosphere and good drinks. 
 

3.  Smoking.  Yes, I know, bad habit….but hard to quit.  We both do, but don’t like to offend others that don’t.  Where can you smoke onboard?  Specific areas?  Our balcony?

 

4.  Tipping.  We booked the indulge package that said all gratuities were included.  Is that everyone?  Room attendant, waiters, bartenders, everyone?  If so, is tipping extra common?  We both worked in the service industry before beginning our careers and want to make sure we are tipping well (but appropriately).

 

5. Dining times?  Pros and cons of scheduled v. anytime?  We chose anytime…but I’d like to hear the negatives of choosing that.

 

Thanks in advance for any and all advice.  Looking forward to it, and will continue to peruse these boards in the meantime.

[keesar]

12 minutes ago, ChrisJess said:

Good afternoon all, just found this site.  My wife and I never took a honeymoon as young poor newlyweds, then kids, blah blah blah, so I booked us a 6-night cruise on the Equinox in October ‘23 for our 15th Anniversary.  We have one of the veranda rooms with the larger veranda.  It seemed like a reasonable ‘splurge’ for the room without going too big on our first time.  This will be the first cruise for either of us.  Well, kind of.  I’ve been Active Duty Navy for 15 years, so I’ve done plenty of long cruises, but I assume this particular one should be a little different than what I’m normally used to.  I’m reading through the posts and enjoying all of the great information.  I do have a few questions, though.

 

1.  ‘First Night’ discounts for dining?  Is there any reason not to choose this?  The only option I found to book Murano was on the first night.  We also booked Tuscan for the 5th night.
 

2.  Ages?  I hear that Celebrity trends older, and honestly, this is a reason we chose it.  I’ll be 40, she’ll be 38, when we cruise.  We are NOT looking for a spring break style atmosphere full of passed out drunk 20-something’s, but still a lively but laid back atmosphere and good drinks. 
 

3.  Smoking.  Yes, I know, bad habit….but hard to quit.  We both do, but don’t like to offend others that don’t.  Where can you smoke onboard?  Specific areas?  Our balcony?

 

4.  Tipping.  We booked the indulge package that said all gratuities were included.  Is that everyone?  Room attendant, waiters, bartenders, everyone?  If so, is tipping extra common?  We both worked in the service industry before beginning our careers and want to make sure we are tipping well (but appropriately).

 

5. Dining times?  Pros and cons of scheduled v. anytime?  We chose anytime…but I’d like to hear the negatives of choosing that.

 

Thanks in advance for any and all advice.  Looking forward to it, and will continue to peruse these boards in the meantime.

 

1.We typically book a Specialty Restaurant on the first night to receive the discount.  One reason is that the dining room can be chaotic.  If you are considering booking for a discount, do it soon as they can disappear.  Murano is our favorite.

2. Celebrity has  an older group and the energy level is less than other cruise lines.  Should suit you just fine. There are enough activities to keep you occupied.  

3.  No smoking on balconies.  There are designated outdoor areas which are identified for you ship.

4. There is no obligation to tip above and beyond your included package.  Many will tip those that provide exceptional service and who have gone above and beyond their responsibilities.

 

[Boycey]

I guess perception in Europe may be a little different from US, but when we talk about lines with an older customer base Celebrity isn't typically amongst them. If there's such a thing as a mid-life demographic, then for us Celebrity certainly catch it. 

 

I'm envious - the first cruise is like the first ever hit of anything that goes on to play a big part in your life; you'll be forever trying to recreate it. You've chosen wisely. Now all you have to do is enjoy and figure out when/where you do the next one... 

[rebeccac]

The pros of anytime dining is that you can change your time depending on what you have going on that particular day.  The con is that you may have a little wait for a table if you are eating during prime times.  This is what we always choose and it has worked out well for us (although we have not sailed Celebrity post-pandemic).

 

The pros of set time dining is that your wait staff gets to know you and what you like.  Also if you have any major food allergies/dietary needs, you will not have to keep explaining them every time.  The cons is that you are bound to a set time and if you miss it, you will likely end up at the buffet which is not necessarily a bad thing, as I find the Celebrity buffets pretty good.  

[emmas gran]

Hi welcome to Cruise Critic. You mention Active Navy Duty but not where you are from/live, I believe military can get a discount on cruises maybe someone who knows more can advise on this..

[chemmo]

1 hour ago, ChrisJess said:

Good afternoon all, just found this site.  My wife and I never took a honeymoon as young poor newlyweds, then kids, blah blah blah, so I booked us a 6-night cruise on the Equinox in October ‘23 for our 15th Anniversary.  We have one of the veranda rooms with the larger veranda.  It seemed like a reasonable ‘splurge’ for the room without going too big on our first time.  This will be the first cruise for either of us.  Well, kind of.  I’ve been Active Duty Navy for 15 years, so I’ve done plenty of long cruises, but I assume this particular one should be a little different than what I’m normally used to.  I’m reading through the posts and enjoying all of the great information.  I do have a few questions, though.

 

1.  ‘First Night’ discounts for dining?  Is there any reason not to choose this?  The only option I found to book Murano was on the first night.  We also booked Tuscan for the 5th night.
 

2.  Ages?  I hear that Celebrity trends older, and honestly, this is a reason we chose it.  I’ll be 40, she’ll be 38, when we cruise.  We are NOT looking for a spring break style atmosphere full of passed out drunk 20-something’s, but still a lively but laid back atmosphere and good drinks. 
 

3.  Smoking.  Yes, I know, bad habit….but hard to quit.  We both do, but don’t like to offend others that don’t.  Where can you smoke onboard?  Specific areas?  Our balcony?

 

4.  Tipping.  We booked the indulge package that said all gratuities were included.  Is that everyone?  Room attendant, waiters, bartenders, everyone?  If so, is tipping extra common?  We both worked in the service industry before beginning our careers and want to make sure we are tipping well (but appropriately).

 

5. Dining times?  Pros and cons of scheduled v. anytime?  We chose anytime…but I’d like to hear the negatives of choosing that.

 

Thanks in advance for any and all advice.  Looking forward to it, and will continue to peruse these boards in the meantime.

Welcome to Cruise Critic and Celebrity!

 

Murano is our favourite restaurant too. Make sure you ask for one of the items that has some table side preparation (ask about favourite Murano dishes if you can’t find anything).

 

Depending on time of year and where you are cruising from ages on board do vary. Our son and GF are a little younger than you and love Celebrity! They always seem to find others of a similar age to hang out with as well as spending time with us. The bars and areas have different ambiance’s so you will soon find your favourite areas.
 

The area to one side of the sunset bar has smoking and is a nice venue for pre and post dinner drinks on a warmer day. Strictly no balcony smoking. Hopefully fellow smokers will be able to advise more.

 

We do believe in tipping those who go ‘above and beyond’. Perhaps, those at bars you regularly go to? Your waiters if you dine daily in the same spot? Your room attendant?

 

Others have already commented re different dining styles…
 

As time goes by you will have loads more questions, just keep asking. 
 

The room style you have chosen seems ideal to work out what you want from a cruise. Some guests find their room is simply a place to sleep and change and consequently book an inside or Oceanview and can then spend more of their budget on speciality dining or on excursions. Many guests do like having a balcony and some enjoy a bigger room and a few more perks and book a suite. There is no ideal room just the one that suits you best. 

 

 

Sincere best wishes for a fantastic first Celebrity cruise!

 

 

[Cheshire Blue]

Welcome to cruising - can almost guarantee you will be back for more in the future. 

 

We did our first cruise (back in the early 90s) out of Miami when we were both just about 30 - and probably amongst the youngest on board (which we really enjoyed).  We met a similar aged US couple (from Georgia) who immediately became close friends for life.   Fast forward 30 odd years and about 15 cruises later, at 60 + we are probably now about mid age range for Celebrity - certainly some younger ones like yourselves and also some older - but always a good mixed crowd.  You will fit in. 

 

Anytime dining is probably best - so suggest you keep that so you can choose daily, depending on what is going on.  Only downside is that I always get the feeling of the meal being served fairly quickly (not really hurried as such but.........they do want the table for the next people).  In comparison at fixed sitting - 6.00 / 8.30 - there is no one waiting - so service seems to be a little more relaxed (if that's what you want).

 

I suggest you try to give up smoking 🙂 - but if not please keep to the designated areas only.   

 

have a great trip 

[kearney]

I try to book Tuscan grill around sunset on evening. It is nice to sail out of Ft Lauderdale...watching the sun set with the Florida coast in the back ground. However, lately instead of doing this the first night... I look for a port where we are leaving near sunset...so that we can replicate this experience. I do prefer Murano... but you can't beat the view out the aft windows of the Tuscan Grill.

 

We just turned 70 and began sailing Celebrity about 6 years ago. It is a laid back atmosphere. They do have fun activities like silent disco... but it is not as active as a Royal or other cruise line...which is fine by me. During the fall school season we have seen very few kids.... There are some younger couples..but the age is generally older than Royal and families tend to be adult children with the occasional grandchild.... but I don't think that would have bothered me back when I was in my 30s to be with an older crowd.. I was never big into belly flop contests and doing shots...

 

There is some smoking on Dec 5 outside... can't recall if it is port or starboard... and by the Sunset bar on deck 12 or 14... You can't do it on the balcony and someone will report it if they smell the smoke. Also I am pretty sure the casino is smoke free... it is not really isolated from public areas ... so smoke would travel everywhere if it was allowed there.

 

My husband needs wheel chair assistance so we always bring extra cash for the pushers, porters, various drivers and tour guides and extra tips for room steward, wait staff and periodically type bar servers. I usually make a list and estimate needs... I am particularly mindful since most of the crew were without work for well over a year. You can always hit the ATM near guest services...there is a $6 fee to do so. I believe the gratuity money that is part of the AI package is spread out amongst the crew..

 

I am sure you will enjoy Celebrity...

[blackshirt]

6 hours ago, emmas gran said:

Hi welcome to Cruise Critic. You mention Active Navy Duty but not where you are from/live, I believe military can get a discount on cruises maybe someone who knows more can advise on this..

True and it applies to veterans and active duty but not necessarily available on all itineraries or stateroom categories.

[keesar]

54 minutes ago, kearney said:

I try to book Tuscan grill around sunset on evening. It is nice to sail out of Ft Lauderdale...watching the sun set with the Florida coast in the back ground. However, lately instead of doing this the first night... I look for a port where we are leaving near sunset...so that we can replicate this experience. I do prefer Murano... but you can't beat the view out the aft windows of the Tuscan Grill.

 

We just turned 70 and began sailing Celebrity about 6 years ago. It is a laid back atmosphere. They do have fun activities like silent disco... but it is not as active as a Royal or other cruise line...which is fine by me. During the fall school season we have seen very few kids.... There are some younger couples..but the age is generally older than Royal and families tend to be adult children with the occasional grandchild.... but I don't think that would have bothered me back when I was in my 30s to be with an older crowd.. I was never big into belly flop contests and doing shots...

 

There is some smoking on Dec 5 outside... can't recall if it is port or starboard... and by the Sunset bar on deck 12 or 14... You can't do it on the balcony and someone will report it if they smell the smoke. Also I am pretty sure the casino is smoke free... it is not really isolated from public areas ... so smoke would travel everywhere if it was allowed there.

 

My husband needs wheel chair assistance so we always bring extra cash for the pushers, porters, various drivers and tour guides and extra tips for room steward, wait staff and periodically type bar servers. I usually make a list and estimate needs... I am particularly mindful since most of the crew were without work for well over a year. You can always hit the ATM near guest services...there is a $6 fee to do so. I believe the gratuity money that is part of the AI package is spread out amongst the crew..

 

I am sure you will enjoy Celebrity...

The casino is smoke free.  There is smoking on the Port side of Deck 5 and in areas by the Mast Bar and Sunset Bar.

[Snit13]

7 hours ago, rebeccac said:

The pros of anytime dining is that you can change your time depending on what you have going on that particular day.  The con is that you may have a little wait for a table if you are eating during prime times.  This is what we always choose and it has worked out well for us (although we have not sailed Celebrity post-pandemic).

 

The pros of set time dining is that your wait staff gets to know you and what you like.  Also if you have any major food allergies/dietary needs, you will not have to keep explaining them every time.  The cons is that you are bound to a set time and if you miss it, you will likely end up at the buffet which is not necessarily a bad thing, as I find the Celebrity buffets pretty good.  

Always booked anytime dining if we had to dine in MDR.  Flexibility.  We only had to tell dietary restrictions once no matter where we were seated.  Chef even came out from kitchen first time and we discussed with him.  Never an issue.

[the penguins]

6 hours ago, Cheshire Blue said:

Welcome to cruising - can almost guarantee you will be back for more in the future. 

 

We did our first cruise (back in the early 90s) out of Miami when we were both just about 30 - and probably amongst the youngest on board (which we really enjoyed).  We met a similar aged US couple (from Georgia) who immediately became close friends for life.   Fast forward 30 odd years and about 15 cruises later, at 60 + we are probably now about mid age range for Celebrity - certainly some younger ones like yourselves and also some older - but always a good mixed crowd.  You will fit in. 

 

Anytime dining is probably best - so suggest you keep that so you can choose daily, depending on what is going on.  Only downside is that I always get the feeling of the meal being served fairly quickly (not really hurried as such but.........they do want the table for the next people).  In comparison at fixed sitting - 6.00 / 8.30 - there is no one waiting - so service seems to be a little more relaxed (if that's what you want).

 

I suggest you try to give up smoking 🙂 - but if not please keep to the designated areas only.   

 

have a great trip 

No smoking anywhere inside the ship including your cabin and balcony. Some places have been mentioned the other is the pool deck starboard side which actually has a roof.

[the penguins]

9 hours ago, ChrisJess said:

Good afternoon all, just found this site.  My wife and I never took a honeymoon as young poor newlyweds, then kids, blah blah blah, so I booked us a 6-night cruise on the Equinox in October ‘23 for our 15th Anniversary.  We have one of the veranda rooms with the larger veranda.  It seemed like a reasonable ‘splurge’ for the room without going too big on our first time.  This will be the first cruise for either of us.  Well, kind of.  I’ve been Active Duty Navy for 15 years, so I’ve done plenty of long cruises, but I assume this particular one should be a little different than what I’m normally used to.  I’m reading through the posts and enjoying all of the great information.  I do have a few questions, though.

 

1.  ‘First Night’ discounts for dining?  Is there any reason not to choose this?  The only option I found to book Murano was on the first night.  We also booked Tuscan for the 5th night.
 

2.  Ages?  I hear that Celebrity trends older, and honestly, this is a reason we chose it.  I’ll be 40, she’ll be 38, when we cruise.  We are NOT looking for a spring break style atmosphere full of passed out drunk 20-something’s, but still a lively but laid back atmosphere and good drinks. 
 

3.  Smoking.  Yes, I know, bad habit….but hard to quit.  We both do, but don’t like to offend others that don’t.  Where can you smoke onboard?  Specific areas?  Our balcony?

 

4.  Tipping.  We booked the indulge package that said all gratuities were included.  Is that everyone?  Room attendant, waiters, bartenders, everyone?  If so, is tipping extra common?  We both worked in the service industry before beginning our careers and want to make sure we are tipping well (but appropriately).

 

5. Dining times?  Pros and cons of scheduled v. anytime?  We chose anytime…but I’d like to hear the negatives of choosing that.

 

Thanks in advance for any and all advice.  Looking forward to it, and will continue to peruse these boards in the meantime.

Hi Chris and Jess, 

If you would like a copy of our "hints and tips" for first time cruisers please email us:

geoffanita at hotmail dot com (sorry for the odd way of writing it stops the robots. Geoff and the boss (Anita).

[jwlane]

2 minutes ago, the penguins said:

pool deck starboard side

Which ship? All I've seen are port side. 

[the penguins]

1 minute ago, jwlane said:

Which ship? All I've seen are port side. 

I thought port side was deck 5 and the pool deck starboard. Perhaps it varies by ship. Whichever it's the spaces with the ashtrays.

[jwlane]

7 minutes ago, the penguins said:

pool deck starboard

In retrospect, I meant to tie it to wherever the Mast Bars are located. 

[the penguins]

2 hours ago, jwlane said:

In retrospect, I meant to tie it to wherever the Mast Bars are located. 

On Silhouette and Eclipse it's the opposite end to the bars , next to where the stage area is, just by the doors that take you back into the ship. On Silhouette the area also now has a number of rocking chairs added to the general seating (no we are not smokers).

[cangelmd]

Others have answered your questions, so I will answer some unasked questions.

October 23 is a long time, so keep your eyes peeled for specials on dining pkgs and shore excursions.

Did you use a TA? If you did, they should monitor for price drops, which might induce you to move to AQ or a suite - but beware, Indulge pkg has gone away, and you will lose it I think if you rebook, so figure that into any financial calculations.

Be sure you have told them this is a special anniversary - both upfront and when you book any dining reservations. We just had our 40th onboard right after Covid and got flowers and chocolate strawberries. That may only happen at higher numbers? You can order flowers and other special touches online or by phone as well, when the day gets closer.

You should have gotten a military discount at booking.

And thank you for your service! Happy anniversary early!

[ChrisJess]

19 hours ago, emmas gran said:

Hi welcome to Cruise Critic. You mention Active Navy Duty but not where you are from/live, I believe military can get a discount on cruises maybe someone who knows more can advise on this..

US Navy.  Right now we live in Japan, just south of Tokyo.  But by the time we cruise I’ll be stationed back in the States.  Yes, we got a discount when we booked.  Thank you.

[ChrisJess]

All, thank you for all of the wisdom and other great information.  We’re really looking forward to it.  I’ll keep reading through the forums and will likely be back with more questions in the future.  If we have as good of a time as we think we might, this may become an annual tradition.  Thanks again.

[emmas gran]

44 minutes ago, ChrisJess said:

US Navy.  Right now we live in Japan, just south of Tokyo.  But by the time we cruise I’ll be stationed back in the States.  Yes, we got a discount when we booked.  Thank you.

 

We did a cruise ending in Yokohama and then spent 3 days touring in Tokyo and visited Mt Fuji, it was around the time when the Emperor handed to his son.