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SOLSTICE 4/5/09 The Evolution of Celebrity

Gustavas

By Gustavas,
in Celebrity Cruises

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Gustavas

Gustavas

Posted
Posted

It is safe to say that the Celebrity Solstice is an evolution in the history of Celebrity ships. As an Elite Captains Club member who was a founding member, I have been on every class. After sailing Celebrity eighteen years ago in 1991, and all my life sailing every chance I get with Celebrity and other lines, I was very skeptical when they (Celebrity) endeavored to build a vessel this large holding 2850 passengers.

 

I was also very concerned when I read they had ended the legendary relationship with Chef Michele Roux. Lastly, I was worried that the brand was slipping into the vast mass market of the pack-em in monster ships. Alas, I was completely wrong and had no reason to worry.

 

It was truly a memorable and excellent voyage onboard a new era for Celebrity. I returned happy and very well pleased after being skeptical. I experienced only minor issues.

 

EMBARKATION: Smooth as silk although the agent failed to return my credit card and in the confusion of pre-boarding documents, I forgot to ask for it. However, no sooner than I arrived at the cabin, the purser called my stateroom and left a message informing me that the credit card was brought aboard by the agent. No longer do they escort you white gloved to your stateroom but the champagne flutes are still there as you board.

 

THE SHIP ITSELF

She strikes a pose at dockside to be sure. She's big and she is a star. The ship is an oasis of comfort, beauty and elegance. It is bigger yes, but not in a vulgar or overshadowing way and never glitzy. Except for Quazar lounge, which was quoted by someone as a "James Bond meets the Jetsons" type club for younger age groups, the ship itself exudes luxury at every turn. It reminded me, in many ways, of a larger, more cosmopolitan version of the Summit or the Millennium.

 

Fellow guests were English, South American and European; and of course American. It seemed Florida and New York dominated. We met many lovely people and enjoyed multiple conversations throughout the voyage. On this ship you will notice more security than usual which was a nice thing to see. Always watchful and always around.

 

She is very easy to get around for ship lovers. I never saw so many electric wheelchairs. Although it was a healthy walk from deck 10 forward to the main dining room upper on 4 aft to be sure, it was not a problem.

 

The glass elevators, atrium lobby, grand staircase and stunning designs force you to stare with a sense of awe, familiarity and for me, peace.

The onboard shops seem more sophisticated than they used to be. More upscale 5th Avenue in appearance and style. The famous grass lawn is nice but not something I would have missed. The glass blowing is another item that did little for me but did concern me about having a crematorium level heating system atop the ship.

 

STATEROOM:

It's all new. Doors open outward now. We arrived to champagne and canapes in place, (repeated daily) my three specialty restaurant reservation cards on the dresser and my standard table for two noted in the Grand Epernay Restaurant along with gift baskets from my staff, chocolates and flowers. All pleasing. Life boat drill was in the theater for us and we never went out on deck. Different but unimportant.

 

The stateroom does not the same old familiar lines, feel or look. The space more than ample for two but not really larger than it used to be. Colors and features have changed. It is an attractive space. The flat screen TV is even more high-tech than ever before and had multiple stereo music choices for all tastes. The bed was comfortable and the end is rounded. The bathroom and shower however, are much improved. There is more room in the bathroom to walk and to turn around and the new shower has to be seem to be appreciated. It is great.

 

Someone once wrote that the toilet paper was rough. Not so. I saw no evidence of skimping on the toiletries and I would notice. Balcony is as to be expected although this time, the bed was next to the balcony doors which is nice for being in bed and watching the ocean move by. What I don't care for are the new outward opening doors that slam. We had noisey neighbors who woke early, stayed up late, loved to talk loud and always slammed doors, cabinets and drawers. The walls between cabins seemed thinner than I remember on other Celebrity ships.

 

Our stateroom attendant was as wonderful as any other. Always greeted us by name, never intruded, always gracious. For the first time in our lengthy cruising history, for no particular reason, we never once ordered room service, not even for morning coffee. A first for us. The chocolates on the pillow have changed slightly; a different brand name each night but they still offer them.

 

DINING:

This is my major concern with any ship along with stateroom and service. For months I was prepared for the potential shock but came away satisfied. It is, however, not what it used to be. The Grand Epernay restaurant is very nice and elegant in a sort of Joan Crawford era, Hollywood way, but no nicer than other Celebrity restaurants. The style is different yes, but the basic venues that have stood the test of time at sea still prevail. The food is different. Not bad but different. It is definitely not the old Michele Roux but it is very good and often times excellent.

 

The Roux era brought stellar French presentations to the table with awe inspiring flair. It was the stuff of legend for Celebrity's early years. That legend has been tempered. The Elizabeth Blau era brings a distinctly different presentation, taste and flavor to the menus. We enjoyed lamb, veal, lobster, great soups and all standard cruise ship fare. Overall, the dining is still great just not the "Nouvelle or Haute Cuisine" of the old days. I never once had to send anything back and yes it was all delicious. We were pleased. The Classics menu is a welcome substitute in case nothing on the evening menu catches yor eye.

 

There were a few minor infractions noted in the dining room. Events that every Celebrity cruise snob or veteran will notice. No more Baked Alaska parades and the waiters are not as sharp as they once were. Missing escargot fork, missing bread plate, missing butter knife, forgotten mint jelly with lamb and poor communication with assistants. All tiny and seemingly insignificant but noticeable.

 

One day sitting at the formal afternoon tea, a waiter offered a pastry to my wife when there was no plate on the table for it. My place setting had a plate but no fork. Again little but noticeable items that would have been unthinkable in the early days of Apollo trained waiters.

 

THE BISTRO:

This was nice but a little over-rated and nothing really special for my liking. A nice late breakfast in the buffet was far better in selections and flavors. The waiters here seem unsure of what they're doing but they try hard to please. The crepes are not thrilling.

 

THE SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS:

We reserved three nights. Two in Murano and one in Tuscan Grille. I had no desire to eat in the Asian fusion restaurant. However Murano, the classical French restaurant was simply amazing and outstanding. It is the ultimate dining venue onboard. It will remind you of the Olympic on Millenneum or the Normandie on Summit with the exception of the historic panels. The room is smaller and dimly lit. The linens, flatware and stemware ? Glorious. The mood as elegant as any five star restaurant or private supper club in Manhattan's elite circut can be.... and the service is divine.

 

The waiters in this dining room are quite simply the absolute finest in the Celebrity fleet without question. This is the dining style I grew up with at sea. Such attention to detail, such a menu and such a wine list. I was truly and completely impressed by this restaurant. Probably because it is a powerful throwback to another era where first class service and gourmet food was the norm on most ships. It also exhibited a touch of Michele Roux's spirit in the flavor. Roast duck, broiled lobster tails, seared Foie Gras, caviar and gourmet cheese plates to mention a few items that always win my praise. All excellent. Flambe's yes but soufflets no more. I dined there twice and the second time I was treated like a regular. In fact, my most memorable nights at sea were in this room. We dined there with friends the second time.

 

The Tuscan Grille however, failed to meet or exceed my expectations. Service was a little slow here. A nice room that looks like a steakhouse with dark leather, wood etc. The waiters, while very nice, seemed either insecure or overly confident and the food presentation and quality was rather unimpressive. It is Italian cuisine but it fails the test of Northern or Southern Italy.

 

They are attempting to recreate Italian fare but they tend to over do the style. In doing so they completely miss the sheer simplicity of fine Italian cuisine. The prosciutto with melon was overly and rediculously salty while the mozzarella pomodoro seemed laden with sliced tomatoes. Veal parm tasted no more impressive than the average pizza shop on land. Tuscan grill uses too many garnishes; there is too much hovering for nothing and too much wasted effort. It had little substance in any of the four courses.

 

MICHAEL'S CLUB

Elegant and very nice but no cigar ...literally, and they didn't carry all liquors.

 

CAFE AL BACCIO

Charming and a nice location but it is definately not the old Cova Cafe with little little chocolates on the saucer with your cappuccino and certainly not the same coffee. I didn't care for their brand of coffee and it's not the friendliest staff except for one Dominican girl who was wonderful and beautiful. I tried it twice and then finally gave it up.

 

THE BUFFETS:

All of these were very well presented on a daily basis and with great variety. I think these were some of the best buffets I've seen on Celebrity. Pasta stations, salads, cold meats, hot carving stations, fresh breads and so much more. We ate there for late breakfast, several lunches and late lunches but never for dinner. The food quality and flavor was fantastic. We were very well pleased with the buffets.

 

POOLSIDE FOOD:

Better than usual hamburgers and I don't usually eat hamburgers on cruises but the one day I did, they were excellent, large and fresh.

 

THE BARS:

All special in their own way but my favorite was the Martini Bar with its frozen bar tops and the wonderful caviar selections offered. Formal nights it was swamped. This was the only bar that seemed to carry Chopin vodka, my favorite. Why it was not at other bars was never learned.

 

SMOKING POLICY:

As a smoker, I miss the ability to freely smoke on the balcony but I obeyed. Others I spoke with did not obey and got serious warning letters under their door. I found that there were enough spots to indulge without offending others. Promenade deck 5 portside aft was a great spot for like minded individuals to socialize, smoke and drink before and after dinner until late.

 

FORMAL NIGHTS:

Tuxedos and gowns indeed. More than usual on this ship which I believe was loaded with Celebrity veterans. Passengers dressed appropriately on formal nights. Thank Goodness !!!

 

CAPTAINS CLUB PARTIES:

We appreciate these marketing attempts at rewarding the faithful. However, the old tradition of delivering the invitations personally under the door are no more. Reading it in the daily bulletin is not the same and not as special as it once seemed to be. Probably because there are so many members now. Also, at former CC parties, guests could order drinks other than the standard tray drinks presented, no more. It has also become less formal in the meeting of the Captain and staff officers. I preferred the old way but still grateful for the venue.

 

SHOWS:

Generally I miss the majority of these shows. Growing up around Broadway makes it tough to appreciate ship entertainment but for the few times I went to a show, I felt the cast tried hard to please the audience and they are all great at what they do.

 

AQUA SPA:

A nice indoor pool and cooler area of quiet from the crowds of the wilder pool area with its music and children. Here you could take a tranquil nap and not worry about direct sunlight or screaming children or loud music. Security guards make sure no children were in this area.

 

CASINO:

Very nice but nothing really different than other ship casinos.

 

PORTS: Been to these ports scores upon scores of times. My reviews would be unfair. We don't sail for the Caribbean ports but for the ships.

 

SOLSTICE CONCULUSION:

In all, I would highly recommend the Celebrity Solstice as it reflects a new and slightly different spin on the Celebrity line. I would sail her again gladly. It is and has been evolving more and more over the years but has not lost its charms, attractions or magnetic pull. It is a ship for the ages with all the excitement and anticipation of elegance and style. A style that is distinctly Celebrity; though not the old Celebrity, it is definitely Celebrity through and through. You will be pleased with her.

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notl342

notl342

Posted
Posted

I was just reading a member review which referred to cover charges as "$30 plus tip" or $5 plus tip".

 

It was my understanding that the cover charge WAS the tip.

 

Can anyone help me here?

 

RHM

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celebrityoctober

celebrityoctober

Posted
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Great review..Thank you! I'm wondering if Celebrity ever sees or reviews these boards? I think it would be great feedback that could be used to improve whats already great and fix things that need fixing......

 

We are cruising on Soltise in October and are very excited.

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Veronica13

Veronica13

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Posted

Gustavas, since you rarely post, I hope you will read this.

 

I would really like to know how you feel the new Celeb compares to Oceania. As I booked on both Oceania and Regent, I am curious. I expect Regent to be far superior in all areas that seem important to both of us, but am wondering if Oceania is really a noticable step above Celebrity. The New Celebrity.

 

I am Celebrity Elite as well, and I enjoyed your review. Confused about how one drinks, smokes and socializes on Deck 5 outdoors, but perhaps they have some sort of "lounge" out there? The lack of comfortable smoking areas is a problem for me. Last I checked Deck 5, it was the wooden sun loungers. Not something you could really sit on in a dress.

 

I saw your previous post on how saddened you were about all the changes. I'm glad you had the right perspective when boarding and found things to enjoy.

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JerryAM

JerryAM

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Posted

I was on the same cruise with my extended family (ages 10 trhu 78). Our first time on Celebrity -- RCCL and Princess previously. Everyone agreed it was our best cruise ever. It was nice to have a bathroom and shower that you could move around in. I was with my 3 sons (age 14) in 1 cabin and we had plenty of room for all of our clothes and sundries. Service was great all around the ship; much better than the other lines we were on. Main dining room food was very good -- there were a few misses, but our waiter always made sure we had plenty of great food to eat. The buffet for breakfast and lunch had great food, and with a great layout so there was minimal (if any) waiting. Special order eggs and omelets had almost no wait and the cooks remembered what we liked. My kids enjoyed the glass show (although I had to push them to go the first time, explaining that I had seen a similar show as a kid at the Corning factory). My wife especially liked the Martini Bar, being able to sample many kinds of vodka -- although not a separate room, it had great ambiance. The shows and comedian (suitable for kids 10 and up) were enjoyable. Our next family cruise will definitely be on Celebrity.

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Gustavas

Gustavas

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Sailed Oceania Insignia last year 12 days/med. It does NOT resemble the Celebrity brand (past or present) in any way. It is a totally different attitude, atmosphere and personality. There are NO formal nights whatsoever and country club casual is the norm nightly. If you wear a tux you will be mistaken for a waiter. It is intimate and more like a large scale yacht. The vastness of Celebrity's marble and atriums and foyers are simply not there on Oceania. It's sophisticated but not in the same league as Silversea by any means. They claim to have the finest cuisine at sea but that is simply not true and clever marketing. Michele Roux's cooking beats Jacques Pepin on Oceania in my opinion. Both French yes, but very different tastes and styles. However, the food taste and quality was excellent. Presentations were good to average and the European trained dining room service was 95% impeccable. Smoking was only allowed in two places. Corner of the pool area and upstairs rear of a forward lounge. No smoking on balcony's or you got thrown off at the next port. (so they said) We got a suite which was really huge but the other balcony cabins are not as large as Celebrity CC level. I think I wrote a lengthy review on the Oceania boards. You can search for it if you like. They don't offer hot breakfast room service on Oceania unless you're in a suite. Lobsters are in all restaurants anytime and you literally get the entire lobster. However, I was not really impressed with Oceania over and above Celebrity. It's overpriced and perhaps overrated and their two for one air deals etc...I skipped for several reasons. Oceania is a little too small for me and lacked a certain something that I could never put my finger on. Not that I like mega ships but I dont like bumping into the same people at every corridor all day, every day either. Hope that helps. If you want to surpass Celebrity and stay on a large ship try Crystal, if you want a small one that surpasses everybody out there, go Silversea. Hope this helps.

 

Gustavas

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juliejane

juliejane

Posted
Posted
It is safe to say that the Celebrity Solstice is an evolution in the history of Celebrity ships. As an Elite Captains Club member who was a founding member, I have been on every class. After sailing Celebrity eighteen years ago in 1991, and all my life sailing every chance I get with Celebrity and other lines, I was very skeptical when they (Celebrity) endeavored to build a vessel this large holding 2850 passengers.

 

I was also very concerned when I read they had ended the legendary relationship with Chef Michele Roux. Lastly, I was worried that the brand was slipping into the vast mass market of the pack-em in monster ships. Alas, I was completely wrong and had no reason to worry.

 

It was truly a memorable and excellent voyage onboard a new era for Celebrity. I returned happy and very well pleased after being skeptical. I experienced only minor issues.

 

EMBARKATION: Smooth as silk although the agent failed to return my credit card and in the confusion of pre-boarding documents, I forgot to ask for it. However, no sooner than I arrived at the cabin, the purser called my stateroom and left a message informing me that the credit card was brought aboard by the agent. No longer do they escort you white gloved to your stateroom but the champagne flutes are still there as you board.

 

THE SHIP ITSELF

She strikes a pose at dockside to be sure. She's big and she is a star. The ship is an oasis of comfort, beauty and elegance. It is bigger yes, but not in a vulgar or overshadowing way and never glitzy. Except for Quazar lounge, which was quoted by someone as a "James Bond meets the Jetsons" type club for younger age groups, the ship itself exudes luxury at every turn. It reminded me, in many ways, of a larger, more cosmopolitan version of the Summit or the Millennium.

 

Fellow guests were English, South American and European; and of course American. It seemed Florida and New York dominated. We met many lovely people and enjoyed multiple conversations throughout the voyage. On this ship you will notice more security than usual which was a nice thing to see. Always watchful and always around.

 

She is very easy to get around for ship lovers. I never saw so many electric wheelchairs. Although it was a healthy walk from deck 10 forward to the main dining room upper on 4 aft to be sure, it was not a problem.

 

The glass elevators, atrium lobby, grand staircase and stunning designs force you to stare with a sense of awe, familiarity and for me, peace.

The onboard shops seem more sophisticated than they used to be. More upscale 5th Avenue in appearance and style. The famous grass lawn is nice but not something I would have missed. The glass blowing is another item that did little for me but did concern me about having a crematorium level heating system atop the ship.

 

STATEROOM:

It's all new. Doors open outward now. We arrived to champagne and canapes in place, (repeated daily) my three specialty restaurant reservation cards on the dresser and my standard table for two noted in the Grand Epernay Restaurant along with gift baskets from my staff, chocolates and flowers. All pleasing. Life boat drill was in the theater for us and we never went out on deck. Different but unimportant.

 

The stateroom does not the same old familiar lines, feel or look. The space more than ample for two but not really larger than it used to be. Colors and features have changed. It is an attractive space. The flat screen TV is even more high-tech than ever before and had multiple stereo music choices for all tastes. The bed was comfortable and the end is rounded. The bathroom and shower however, are much improved. There is more room in the bathroom to walk and to turn around and the new shower has to be seem to be appreciated. It is great.

 

Someone once wrote that the toilet paper was rough. Not so. I saw no evidence of skimping on the toiletries and I would notice. Balcony is as to be expected although this time, the bed was next to the balcony doors which is nice for being in bed and watching the ocean move by. What I don't care for are the new outward opening doors that slam. We had noisey neighbors who woke early, stayed up late, loved to talk loud and always slammed doors, cabinets and drawers. The walls between cabins seemed thinner than I remember on other Celebrity ships.

 

Our stateroom attendant was as wonderful as any other. Always greeted us by name, never intruded, always gracious. For the first time in our lengthy cruising history, for no particular reason, we never once ordered room service, not even for morning coffee. A first for us. The chocolates on the pillow have changed slightly; a different brand name each night but they still offer them.

 

DINING:

This is my major concern with any ship along with stateroom and service. For months I was prepared for the potential shock but came away satisfied. It is, however, not what it used to be. The Grand Epernay restaurant is very nice and elegant in a sort of Joan Crawford era, Hollywood way, but no nicer than other Celebrity restaurants. The style is different yes, but the basic venues that have stood the test of time at sea still prevail. The food is different. Not bad but different. It is definitely not the old Michele Roux but it is very good and often times excellent.

 

The Roux era brought stellar French presentations to the table with awe inspiring flair. It was the stuff of legend for Celebrity's early years. That legend has been tempered. The Elizabeth Blau era brings a distinctly different presentation, taste and flavor to the menus. We enjoyed lamb, veal, lobster, great soups and all standard cruise ship fare. Overall, the dining is still great just not the "Nouvelle or Haute Cuisine" of the old days. I never once had to send anything back and yes it was all delicious. We were pleased. The Classics menu is a welcome substitute in case nothing on the evening menu catches yor eye.

 

There were a few minor infractions noted in the dining room. Events that every Celebrity cruise snob or veteran will notice. No more Baked Alaska parades and the waiters are not as sharp as they once were. Missing escargot fork, missing bread plate, missing butter knife, forgotten mint jelly with lamb and poor communication with assistants. All tiny and seemingly insignificant but noticeable.

 

One day sitting at the formal afternoon tea, a waiter offered a pastry to my wife when there was no plate on the table for it. My place setting had a plate but no fork. Again little but noticeable items that would have been unthinkable in the early days of Apollo trained waiters.

 

THE BISTRO:

This was nice but a little over-rated and nothing really special for my liking. A nice late breakfast in the buffet was far better in selections and flavors. The waiters here seem unsure of what they're doing but they try hard to please. The crepes are not thrilling.

 

THE SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS:

We reserved three nights. Two in Murano and one in Tuscan Grille. I had no desire to eat in the Asian fusion restaurant. However Murano, the classical French restaurant was simply amazing and outstanding. It is the ultimate dining venue onboard. It will remind you of the Olympic on Millenneum or the Normandie on Summit with the exception of the historic panels. The room is smaller and dimly lit. The linens, flatware and stemware ? Glorious. The mood as elegant as any five star restaurant or private supper club in Manhattan's elite circut can be.... and the service is divine.

 

The waiters in this dining room are quite simply the absolute finest in the Celebrity fleet without question. This is the dining style I grew up with at sea. Such attention to detail, such a menu and such a wine list. I was truly and completely impressed by this restaurant. Probably because it is a powerful throwback to another era where first class service and gourmet food was the norm on most ships. It also exhibited a touch of Michele Roux's spirit in the flavor. Roast duck, broiled lobster tails, seared Foie Gras, caviar and gourmet cheese plates to mention a few items that always win my praise. All excellent. Flambe's yes but soufflets no more. I dined there twice and the second time I was treated like a regular. In fact, my most memorable nights at sea were in this room. We dined there with friends the second time.

 

The Tuscan Grille however, failed to meet or exceed my expectations. Service was a little slow here. A nice room that looks like a steakhouse with dark leather, wood etc. The waiters, while very nice, seemed either insecure or overly confident and the food presentation and quality was rather unimpressive. It is Italian cuisine but it fails the test of Northern or Southern Italy.

 

They are attempting to recreate Italian fare but they tend to over do the style. In doing so they completely miss the sheer simplicity of fine Italian cuisine. The prosciutto with melon was overly and rediculously salty while the mozzarella pomodoro seemed laden with sliced tomatoes. Veal parm tasted no more impressive than the average pizza shop on land. Tuscan grill uses too many garnishes; there is too much hovering for nothing and too much wasted effort. It had little substance in any of the four courses.

 

MICHAEL'S CLUB

Elegant and very nice but no cigar ...literally, and they didn't carry all liquors.

 

CAFE AL BACCIO

Charming and a nice location but it is definately not the old Cova Cafe with little little chocolates on the saucer with your cappuccino and certainly not the same coffee. I didn't care for their brand of coffee and it's not the friendliest staff except for one Dominican girl who was wonderful and beautiful. I tried it twice and then finally gave it up.

 

THE BUFFETS:

All of these were very well presented on a daily basis and with great variety. I think these were some of the best buffets I've seen on Celebrity. Pasta stations, salads, cold meats, hot carving stations, fresh breads and so much more. We ate there for late breakfast, several lunches and late lunches but never for dinner. The food quality and flavor was fantastic. We were very well pleased with the buffets.

 

POOLSIDE FOOD:

Better than usual hamburgers and I don't usually eat hamburgers on cruises but the one day I did, they were excellent, large and fresh.

 

THE BARS:

All special in their own way but my favorite was the Martini Bar with its frozen bar tops and the wonderful caviar selections offered. Formal nights it was swamped. This was the only bar that seemed to carry Chopin vodka, my favorite. Why it was not at other bars was never learned.

 

SMOKING POLICY:

As a smoker, I miss the ability to freely smoke on the balcony but I obeyed. Others I spoke with did not obey and got serious warning letters under their door. I found that there were enough spots to indulge without offending others. Promenade deck 5 portside aft was a great spot for like minded individuals to socialize, smoke and drink before and after dinner until late.

 

FORMAL NIGHTS:

Tuxedos and gowns indeed. More than usual on this ship which I believe was loaded with Celebrity veterans. Passengers dressed appropriately on formal nights. Thank Goodness !!!

 

CAPTAINS CLUB PARTIES:

We appreciate these marketing attempts at rewarding the faithful. However, the old tradition of delivering the invitations personally under the door are no more. Reading it in the daily bulletin is not the same and not as special as it once seemed to be. Probably because there are so many members now. Also, at former CC parties, guests could order drinks other than the standard tray drinks presented, no more. It has also become less formal in the meeting of the Captain and staff officers. I preferred the old way but still grateful for the venue.

 

SHOWS:

Generally I miss the majority of these shows. Growing up around Broadway makes it tough to appreciate ship entertainment but for the few times I went to a show, I felt the cast tried hard to please the audience and they are all great at what they do.

 

AQUA SPA:

A nice indoor pool and cooler area of quiet from the crowds of the wilder pool area with its music and children. Here you could take a tranquil nap and not worry about direct sunlight or screaming children or loud music. Security guards make sure no children were in this area.

 

CASINO:

Very nice but nothing really different than other ship casinos.

 

PORTS: Been to these ports scores upon scores of times. My reviews would be unfair. We don't sail for the Caribbean ports but for the ships.

 

SOLSTICE CONCULUSION:

In all, I would highly recommend the Celebrity Solstice as it reflects a new and slightly different spin on the Celebrity line. I would sail her again gladly. It is and has been evolving more and more over the years but has not lost its charms, attractions or magnetic pull. It is a ship for the ages with all the excitement and anticipation of elegance and style. A style that is distinctly Celebrity; though not the old Celebrity, it is definitely Celebrity through and through. You will be pleased with her.

 

 

I hugley enjoyed this review, we have never sailded with X before ( allways staying with P O and Fred Olsen lines) but we are on Eclipse next year so this has given great insight in what we can expect, thank you .

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Veronica13

Veronica13

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Posted
Sailed Oceania Insignia last year 12 days/med. It does NOT resemble the Celebrity brand (past or present) in any way. It is a totally different attitude, atmosphere and personality. There are NO formal nights whatsoever and country club casual is the norm nightly. If you wear a tux you will be mistaken for a waiter. It is intimate and more like a large scale yacht. The vastness of Celebrity's marble and atriums and foyers are simply not there on Oceania. It's sophisticated but not in the same league as Silversea by any means. They claim to have the finest cuisine at sea but that is simply not true and clever marketing. Michele Roux's cooking beats Jacques Pepin on Oceania in my opinion. Both French yes, but very different tastes and styles. However, the food taste and quality was excellent. Presentations were good to average and the European trained dining room service was 95% impeccable. Smoking was only allowed in two places. Corner of the pool area and upstairs rear of a forward lounge. No smoking on balcony's or you got thrown off at the next port. (so they said) We got a suite which was really huge but the other balcony cabins are not as large as Celebrity CC level. I think I wrote a lengthy review on the Oceania boards. You can search for it if you like. They don't offer hot breakfast room service on Oceania unless you're in a suite. Lobsters are in all restaurants anytime and you literally get the entire lobster. However, I was not really impressed with Oceania over and above Celebrity. It's overpriced and perhaps overrated and their two for one air deals etc...I skipped for several reasons. Oceania is a little too small for me and lacked a certain something that I could never put my finger on. Not that I like mega ships but I dont like bumping into the same people at every corridor all day, every day either. Hope that helps. If you want to surpass Celebrity and stay on a large ship try Crystal, if you want a small one that surpasses everybody out there, go Silversea. Hope this helps.

 

Gustavas

 

THANK YOU GUSTAVAS :)

I was concerned about the size as well, especially since I travel alone, seeing the same 50 couples or so the whole sailing would bore me, but was willing to try if quality was noticably better, I might have.

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Havana Daydreamin

Havana Daydreamin

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Posted

MICHAEL'S CLUB

Elegant and very nice but no cigar ...literally, and they didn't carry all liquors.

 

GREAT review and comparison. Thanks.

 

As I understand from your review, as also from others, Michael's is no longer a cigar club. If that is so, kind of a shame as that was part of the reason for booking for me. However, I will do as I always do, enjoy the cruise for the cruise.

 

Your review just made the anticipation for January ..10 even greater! Thanks again.

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