Celebrity 101 crash course needed for Star Princess passenger

[biensur]

We were very lucky to be able to rebook our April 9th cancelled sailing aboard the Star Princess on Celebrity's Century.

 

Can anyone give me some quick basics about the ship or Celebrity? For example I found out when I booked that there is fixed dining only, which will be fine of course, but what about those less obvious things that people who have cruised other lines might not know or think to ask about?

 

Thank you!!

[dkjretired]

You may order the same meal in the dining room from room service and there is casual dining in the buffet area. The casual dining is ordering off a menu but much more relaxed. There is also a grill, pizza and sushi served in the evening. The only thing you really won't have is a buffet for dinner. There are of course buffets for lunch and breakfast.

[Lois R]

Welcome aboard:)

 

I have sailed Century 3 times...she is my favorite ship. She is elegant,

without alot of bells and whistles on the "Floating Cities" out there

these days.

What would you like to know? The Rende-Voux lounge is located

outside the dining room. I love that particular lounge on Century.

 

You are correct about the dining...2 times for dinner....6:00 main,

8:30 late.

 

Buffets are not 24/7 as they are on Princess and pools are salt..I know

they are fresh water on Princess.

 

Hope this helps a bit:) and I hope you enjoy your cruise.

[Andy]

We were very lucky to be able to rebook our April 9th cancelled sailing aboard the Star Princess on Celebrity's Century.

 

Can anyone give me some quick basics about the ship or Celebrity? For example I found out when I booked that there is fixed dining only, which will be fine of course, but what about those less obvious things that people who have cruised other lines might not know or think to ask about?

 

Thank you!!

 

Hi Biensur !

 

Welcome to Celebrity. We have been on Century several times. We were on Century 2 weeks ago. She is a great ship.

 

Lois covered some very good points. Probably the biggest differences is she somewhat smaller than Star, and the Dining is assigned seating which we prefer. The food (IMHO) is much better on Celebrity.

 

Any questions ? Feel free to ask. I am pretty sure you will not be disappointed. Enjoy your Cruise !

[biensur]

Thanks for the tidbits so far - didn't know about the salt pools, it will feel like the ocean! I've heard that Celebrity has better food, but with food being so subjective, I am really pleased I will have the chance to do my own comparison. When you like one cruise line and tend to stick with it as I have, you miss out on being able to balance cruising experiences because that one line is your only point of reference.

 

The topics of interest:

 

1) Specialty dining - is there any, any upcharge, is it worth it?

2) A teen program - offered? any fun for boys 14 and 15?

3) Hidden secrets - i.e. bringing alcohol onboard, getting upgrades/cruise credits?

4) Must buys on board?

5) Must do entertainment?

 

Thanks so much for your feedback!

6) Tours - how much more onboard versus booked independently, especially SCUBA diving.

[Andy]

Thanks for the tidbits so far - didn't know about the salt pools, it will feel like the ocean! I've heard that Celebrity has better food, but with food being so subjective, I am really pleased I will have the chance to do my own comparison. When you like one cruise line and tend to stick with it as I have, you miss out on being able to balance cruising experiences because that one line is your only point of reference.

 

The topics of interest:

 

1) Specialty dining - is there any, any upcharge, is it worth it?

2) A teen program - offered? any fun for boys 14 and 15?

3) Hidden secrets - i.e. bringing alcohol onboard, getting upgrades/cruise credits?

4) Must buys on board?

5) Must do entertainment?

 

Thanks so much for your feedback!

6) Tours - how much more onboard versus booked independently, especially SCUBA diving.

 

Hi Biensur !

 

1) No specialty Dining on Century YET. She will have it in 2 months (sorry)

 

2) Yes, and from what I have read, very well run.

 

3) Alcohol ? Dont get me started on that :) We have a million threads here on it. It is no different than any other line. You are not supposed to do it, but many folks do it anyway. I would search the threads here for more information on that topic.

 

Upgrades ? A huge longshot. Celebrity makes you pay for them most all the time, and the ship is likely to be full.

 

Cruise Credits ? The only way to get any are the occasional Captains Club coupon (none that I know of right now), and by booking your NEXT Cruise onboard, you can get a very nice shipboard credit for the NEXT Cruise (I highly recommend this. If you want to book another Cruise, make sure to see the Future Cruise Consultant. Her name is Ogla and she is on Deck 5)

 

4) Must Buys ? I do not do much onboard shopping other than Celebrity logo items, so others can tackle that one.

 

5) Must Do Entertainment ? See ALL the shows. The Celebrity production shows are incredible. The Celebrity Singers and Dancers are wonderful. Also, see the Piano Player in Michaels Pub. His name is John Salerno and he is awesome. The pool band is decent at best. Their music is fine, but they played the SAME songs in order each day.

 

6) Tours - Yes they cost more onboard, but I feel you should pay the extra money, and go with the Ships tours. I have done many of them and rarely have been disappointed. I am sure others will disagree with me, and advise to buy the local tours... but I do not feel comfortable doing that.

 

Any more questions ? Feel Free to ask !

[milogurd]

biensur,

 

Here are two threads that you might want to check out...

 

A short (so far) list of Celebrity FAQ's at:

 

Creating a FAQ: What You Need To Know About Cruising on CELEBRITY

 

and a LONGer one at:

 

Celebrity Secrets they usually don't tell you about

 

Best wishes!

[biensur]

Thanks for the links!! Lots of reading to do, and little time to plan, but the last minuteness of it all makes it exhilarating!!

 

I appreciate all your feedback because I feel a little naive as I have been so brand loyal to date. I am looking forward to sailing Celebrity!!

 

Would really be interested in hearing any tips for my 14 and 15 year old sons.

 

Many thanks!!

[donnaw]

We were very lucky to be able to rebook our April 9th cancelled sailing aboard the Star Princess on Celebrity's Century.

 

Can anyone give me some quick basics about the ship or Celebrity? For example I found out when I booked that there is fixed dining only, which will be fine of course, but what about those less obvious things that people who have cruised other lines might not know or think to ask about?

 

Thank you!!

 

Welcome to Celebrity! Century is a great ship and equivalent to the Sun Class on Princess. You will enjoy it. Peruse the Grand and Galaxy reviews below and you will get lots of comparisons of those little things between lines to prepare you.

 

Have fun!

[TN Vol Fan]

Entertainment for boys 14 & 15??? Of course, the 14 & 15 year old girls.:D :cool: :eek:

 

At least that was the main entertainment for my boys.

 

Cecil

[Lois R]

Hi again,:) I don't have any kids but have always heard good things

about the X kids programs.

 

And of course, if they can find some 14&15 year old gals to

hang out with...that would be nice as well;)

 

Quote

"Entertainment for boys 14 & 15??? Of course, the 14 & 15 year old girls."

:D :cool: :eek:

 

Another thing, I know there have been many pax over the years

who have said X staff and crew are "aloof"...but I totally disagree

with that comment.

On my cruises, they have always had a smile, a "good morning"....

"good evening".....and I have always found them to be genuinely

accomodating.

Actually, the service I receive is one of the MAIN reasons

I keep coming back!!!!

[biensur]

I loved that comment so much it made me laugh and spit on my monitor!!!

 

You guys are terrific. Thanks for the kind welcome to the Celebrity forum!!!

 

Any advice re tipping? I have become accustomed to the direct debit $10 per day Princess does, then we would usually give our waiter and steward an additional $50. Recommendations??

[Lois R]

Hi,:) your tipping question.....Personally, I tip the individuals myself.

I just prefer it that way. But if you want to do the auto tips, I believe

X provides that option as well. I have seen a form in my cabin before,

where you fill it out and turn it into Guest Relations.

You might want to check after you board (go see GR) to make sure.

Tipping extra for the staff and crew is always a nice thing:D

[biensur]

Thanks Lous for your feedback!!!

 

Have been reading the Celebrity secrets thread and am craving a cookie in the Persian Gardens!! By the way, I didn't read anything about PG and Century together. Is that on the larger ships? The spa on Celebrity's virtual tour of Century looks lovely! SIL and I will likely visit the spa once and I am looking forward to it!!

 

Thanks again!

[Lois R]

Hi, Century does not have the Persian Gardens, sorry! They will be

having it AFTER her overhaul...so, if you have a good time next month,

you will have to try her again after she is upgraded;)

 

Oh, another item....there are very few announcements:D during

the day.

Now, I have read some posts recently that there have been

more than the usual...cannot tell you what ship or itinerary but

it is another thing I love....not having to hear

"BINGO BINGO"......

I think they feel like the pax can read their dailies and/or ask

any questions about things at Guest Relations.

[cruisintwinsmom]

Unfortunately, we have not been on Century (will be on in 2 1/2 mos) and haven't sailed when there have been many teens on (we start summer break earlier than most). That said, when you check in to board, there will be a sign up with the kids program. The first night there is a meeting for teens, they break them into 2 age groups, I think. From then on the kids got a schedule of events left in their room with the daily. A talent contest was held just for the teens. My DDs didn't participate and that's about all I remember. Someone has a thread running about their trip on Century and they had 5 children with them--I would go to his thread and ask him.

 

Happy Sailing!!!

[geoherb]

Two things you might miss skimming over all the tips that Milogurd posted links for:

 

1. You can have shrimp cocktail every night. Just tell your waiter or assistant maitre d' the first night. Or if you have any special requests, just let them know. Celebrity is usually great at making possible things happen.

 

2. Don't miss afternoon tea. It's only offered once--not every afternoon, like on Princess ships--so make sure you go when it is offered.

[GORDONCHICK]

I believe you'll find a Belgiun waffle station (complete with fruit and whipped cream toppings) by the aft pool.

 

Celebrity provides lots of little "extras" that Princess doesn't. They aren't big things, but nice touches and really add up over the voyage. A crew member will actually escort you to your cabin instead of pointing you to the elevators and giving directions. A shopping bag and umbrella should be in your cabin's closet for you to use while cruising. There is no charge unless you take them home. There are tons of towels up at the midsection pool, so no need to drag the ones from your cabin (save those for excursions). One of my favorite things was that they always had ice water and cool, wet wash cloths waiting for us when we came back from port - so refreshing and such a simple thing!

 

The food is wonderful, and the waitstaff will do what ever they can to please you, so if you do want shrimp cocktail as an appetizer every even, just say the word.

 

Our son was in the kids program, but he wa only 3 1/2 at the time, so I'm afraid that I can't help with info for your teens, but I'm sure they will have a wonderful time.

 

I think you'll wish you'd tried Celebrity before now.

 

Carmen

[biensur]

waffles, afternoon tea, shrimp cocktail, my mouth is so watering for this cruise.

 

Thanks for all your wonderful input. I'll be sure to post a review upon return!

 

I asked this on another thread, maybe you will know, are there mini fridges in the cabins ad will X permit you to take an iron in your luggage?

[Lois R]

waffles, afternoon tea, shrimp cocktail, my mouth is so watering for this cruise.

 

Thanks for all your wonderful input. I'll be sure to post a review upon return!

 

I asked this on another thread, maybe you will know, are there mini fridges in the cabins ad will X permit you to take an iron in your luggage?

 

Hi, yes there are mini fridges. I have never used it though.

 

As for the irons, please leave it home. I don't know where it is

written I do think it against policy (though I know...people bring

them anyway:rolleyes: ).

And I know most of us are responsible adults...but it really is

a fire hazard.

Bring a steamer...or if you are like me, the charges for pressing

really aren't that pricey and if I need something pressed badly

I send it out.

Or while you are in the shower, hang the clothing out and the steam

is an excellent presser too;)

[poetic license]

Casual afternoon tea is served every day from 4 -5, and is a great little option after a shore excursion, and a fine bridge for those who have late seating. Love the little sandwiches and fruit tarts; they make great shortbread, too.

 

Cheers~

Nicki

[Jujubee Cruisin']

 

Celebrity provides lots of little "extras" that Princess doesn't. They aren't big things, but nice touches and really add up over the voyage. A crew member will actually escort you to your cabin instead of pointing you to the elevators and giving directions. A shopping bag and umbrella should be in your cabin's closet for you to use while cruising. There is no charge unless you take them home. There are tons of towels up at the midsection pool, so no need to drag the ones from your cabin (save those for excursions). One of my favorite things was that they always had ice water and cool, wet wash cloths waiting for us when we came back from port - so refreshing and such a simple thing!

 

 

I too will be cruising on Celebrity for the first time on 4/28. Last year, we cruised with HAL and every guest received a complimentary beachbag/canvas tote which were allowed to take home. (The bag definitely got some use during the cruise, so I doubt they could have reused it anyway.)

 

Also, at every port, staff was handing out towels to the guests as they exited the ship for us to use on shore. This was great because we didn't have to take them from our rooms, and we could just drop off our dirty towels in bins when we boarded the ship at the end of the day.

 

It sounds like Celebrity doesn't provide the same service? Just want to make sure so I don't find myself towel-less and bag-less in Mexico.

[cpristash]

I too am a "star" transfer to the Millie 4/16...could someone give me a crash course on evening attire for men..DH is obsessive! Jacket for informal/casual night as well?

[Lois R]

Hi,:) no need for a jacket on casual night (unless of course

he wants to;) ).

[spearmint]

I believe you'll find a Belgiun waffle station (complete with fruit and whipped cream toppings) by the aft pool.

 

Celebrity provides lots of little "extras" .... They aren't big things, but nice touches and really add up over the voyage. A crew member will actually escort you to your cabin instead of pointing you to the elevators and giving directions. A shopping bag and umbrella should be in your cabin's closet for you to use while cruising. There is no charge unless you take them home. There are tons of towels up at the midsection pool, so no need to drag the ones from your cabin (save those for excursions). One of my favorite things was that they always had ice water and cool, wet wash cloths waiting for us when we came back from port - so refreshing and such a simple thing!

 

The food is wonderful, and the waitstaff will do what ever they can to please you, so if you do want shrimp cocktail as an appetizer every even, just say the word.

 

I think you'll wish you'd tried Celebrity before now.

 

Carmen

 

All of the above is true, plus many of the comments of previous posters. The staffs of these ships are just great.

 

Like you, we are brand partial; to Celebrity. We have only made 4 cruises (5th one this summer) and are really reluctant to try one of the other lines. WELCOME TO CELEBRITY!:D