Overall Score
| BERLITZ'S RATING |
| |
Possible |
Achieved |
| |
| Ship |
500 |
371 |
| Accommodation |
200 |
147 |
| Food |
400 |
252 |
| Service |
400 |
285 |
| Entertainment |
100 |
63 |
| Cruise |
400 |
268 |
| |
Zenith, formerly owned and operated by Celebrity Cruises (the sister ship is Island Cruises’ Island Star, formerly Horizon), is now over 15 years old. However, the ship still has a contemporary, though rather sharp, angular profile that gives the impression of power and speed owing to its blue paint striping along the sides, separating the hull from the superstructure (the hull was designed by mega-yacht designer Jon Bannenberg). Pullmantur Cruises took over the ship in 2007, installed 220-volt (European) outlets in all cabins, and started operations in June.
Inside, there is a similar interior layout to sister ship Island Star, and elegant and restrained decor. The feeling is one of uncluttered surroundings, and the ship benefits from some interesting artwork. Soothing, pastel colors and high-quality soft furnishings are used throughout the interiors.
The ship’s art deco-style hotel-like lobby (reminiscent of hotels in Miami Beach) has a two-deck-high ceiling and a spacious feel to it, and is the contact point for the reception desk, shore excursions, and onboard accounts.
The principal deck that houses many of the public entertainment rooms has a double-width indoor promenade. There is a good-sized library, relocated and enlarged in a 1999 refit. Other facilities include Harry’s Bar – a cigar smoking lounge complete with fireplace and bookshelves containing leather-bound volumes), library and internet-connect center; a Plaza Café, for coffee and loud chat. A large, elegantly appointed casino has its own bar.
Pullmantur Cruises has made changes to some of the public rooms and open areas, and has added splashes of bright colors, motifs, and new signage. The hospitality and the range and variety of food have been tailored to its Spanish-speaking family clientele. Pullmantur Cruises also has a good programme for children and teenagers, with specially trained youth counsellors, and lots of activities. You will typically find a lot of smokers aboard.
Standing in line for embarkation, disembarkation, shore tenders and for self-serve buffet meals is inevitable when cruising aboard all large ships. Also, the doors to the public restrooms and the outdoor decks are rather heavy. The public restrooms are clinical and need some softer decor. There are no cushioned pads for poolside sunloungers.
Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008
