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Celebrity Caribbean in style.

37 of 38 people found this review informative
 
Reviewed By: Barber, Salisbury on 5th Feb 2012
Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises Times cruised before: 10+
Cruise Ship: Celebrity Eclipse Sailed: January, 2012
Destination: Caribbean Age: 56-65
Cabin: Balcony Occasion: Birthday
To escape the British winter gloom, we booked a 7 night Caribbean cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse departing Miami Jan 28th.
It was perfect from start to finish .. We had sailed on the sister ship 'Celebrity Equinox' last August (East Mediterranean) so we had a good idea what to expect - we were not disappointed!
We made our own flight / transfer arrangements and embarkation at Miami was smooth and efficient - we were greeted with a glass of champagne as we boarded - but far more important we were welcomed by smiling, sincere staff - and their level of enthusiasm and 'customer care' did not falter throughout the cruise.
Our stateroom was immaculate and the housekeeping staff kept things that way - Celebrity brand standards are high and they appear to be doing a great job in training and motivating staff at all levels that 'touch' the customer.
We approached the Maitre D' requesting a specific table in the Sonata (fixed dining) restaurant and we were accommodated - our waiters and somelier were courteous, humorous and did a great job with my birthday cake and choral accompaniment!
The overall standard of cuisine was excellent - great choice, well prepared and beautifully presented - we have also used the specialty restaurants on previous occasions - again both food and wine were superb.
The 7 day cruise slightly limited the itinerary - by definition we sailed (nearly 2 days) to the Caribbean - did 3 days consecutive ports of call, then 2 days sailing back to Miami. Hence the shore visits were somewhat compacted into the middle of the holiday.
The shore excursions on offer were very varied and could appeal to differing levels of interest and energy - we chose to 'do our own thing' mainly because we are not very good at being 'herded' on to buses in big numbers - but that's just personal preference. Many fellow cruisers we spoke to, said they thoroughly enjoyed the organised excursions although felt they were possibly a bit pricey.
The theatre shows were very good - but to be honest, the usual cruise-line fare.
Other entertainment throughout the ship - themed parties , dancing etc were really excellent. That combined with the general ambience of the ship's interior design made the whole experience first rate. We particularly enjoyed the Martini bar - great atmosphere, lots of fun and very much a 'hub' meeting point.
There is so much to comment on this wonderful ship - suffice to say we are returning to Celebrity in the summer ( Celebrity Constellation) - which has now been refurbished with many of the Solstice Class features.
Well done Celebrity - can't wait to get back on board !!
Quality of Food5
Mostly used the Sonata restaurant - great variety / good wines
Entertainment4
Shore Excursionsn/a
Staff5
We were impressed by the overall level of staff friendliness - their open/ 'smiley' approach / positive attitude
Children's Facilitiesn/a
Onboard Activities4
Cabins5
Overall Rating5
37 of 38 people found this review informative
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Comment by EVANS, Arundel Hills, Queensland, (10 Feb 12 21:15) about this REVIEW
My wife and I also found 'Eclipse' to be superb. Celebrity are the tops. We have sailed on 'Summit' for two weeks, 'Eclipse' for four weeks (Mediterranean) and we are booked 'back-to-back' on 'Silhouette' in May 2012. Celebrity Cruises are first class in all areas and we feel to be 'part of a club' or 'family'. Have no fear - Thorpe of Melton Mowbray, you are in good hands. Enjoy your Celebrity Cruise. Mike Evans, Gold Coast, Queensland. (Captains Club member 723625380).
Comment by O'Malley, Patterson Lakes (11 Feb 12 05:48) about a COMMENT by EVANS (10 Feb 12 21:15)
Ah that is wonderful to hear as we are on the Silhouette in May 2012 and have not cruised with them before. We will be cruising before hand for 5 days than join Celebrity in Venice. We are 3 couples going together one from Gold Coast and the other 2 from Melbourne. It is always nice to hear good comments.
Comment by Thorpe, Melton Mowbray (07 Feb 12 08:15) about this REVIEW
Thanks for that review. My wife and I are going on Eclipse for a Mediterranean cruise in May this year and are looking forward to it even more after your comments

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