Posted on 24th Jan, 2025
If you're seeking a cruise holiday with next-level luxury, look no further than Celebrity Cruises' The Retreat. Claiming to offer the most elevated experience at sea, The Retreat delivers indulgence that doesn't get much better.
So, how does Celebrity Cruises Retreat provide the ultimate in luxury cruising holidays? In this guide, we reveal all. Discover what is included in the Celebrity Cruises Retreat, why it's worth it, and how you can book your space in this exceptional onboard venue!
The Retreat is Celebrity Cruises’ exclusive offering, designed to give you an all-encompassing VIP holiday. As a premier suite-class option, it delivers top-tier cruise accommodations. But it also goes much further than that.
You'll get access to a private fine-dining restaurant, exclusive lounge and sundeck, dedicated butler service and Retreat Destination Experience Specialist, and premium onboard amenities.
The Retreat isn't just a place; it's an all-round enhanced cruise lifestyle experience.
Celebrity Cruises’ The Retreat is available on most of its modernised vessels, including its Edge Class ships: Apex, Ascent, Beyond, Edge, and Xcel. You'll also find The Retreat on Celebrity's Solstice and Millenium series ships.
Here are some of the fantastic Celebrity Cruises’ Retreat benefits you can expect when you choose to enhance your cruise holiday with this option:
The luxury suites form the centre point of your first-class cruise holiday. Celebrity Cruises Retreat Suites are sumptuously spacious and thoughtfully designed to provide every ounce of comfort and style you can wish for, alongside spectacular views that elevate your experience to rival your dreams.
Each of Celebrity Cruises Retreat Suites has been designed to offer a variety of unique and exclusive benefits, examples include:
Sky Suite: Perfect for couples or small families, the Sky Suite offers spacious living areas and a private balcony.
Celebrity Suite: These two-room suites feature separate living and sleeping areas, as well as a stylish veranda, ideal for those who want extra privacy.
Royal Suite: Larger and more opulent, the Royal Suite boasts premium furnishings, a whirlpool tub, a spacious sitting area with a sofa and generous storage space.
Penthouse Suite: With its grand layout, this suite includes two bedrooms, a large dining area, and even a walk-in closet.
Iconic Suite: Situated above the ship’s bridge, the Iconic Suite offers the best views onboard and is the largest and most luxurious Celebrity Cruise Retreat Suite. It comes complete with an extensive living area, two bedrooms and bathrooms, a whirlpool tub, and exclusive design elements.
The impressive suites offered within The Retreat are sure to elevate your experience onboard a Celebrity cruise. However, Celebrity Cruise’s Retreat benefits don’t end there. Here’s what else is included in the Celebrity Cruises Retreat that makes your holiday extra special.
Dining at The Retreat is nothing short of exceptional. Firstly, you get exclusive access to the Retreat's private restaurant, Luminae. Here, you'll find unique and stunning dishes that you can’t get anywhere else onboard.
These are designed by Celebrity Cruises' Global Culinary Ambassador and Michelin-star chef, Daniel Boulud.
For something more relaxed, you can head to The Retreat Lounge, a stylish yet comfortable place for a coffee, a bite to eat or to discover The Retreat's renowned afternoon tea events. Alternatively, soak up the sun at The Retreat Sundeck, where you can eat, drink and chill out on your comfy lounger.
Of course, with Celebrity Cruises’ Retreat, you can also have the option of full in-suite room service, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as selected ‘daily delights.’
If you’re wondering if Celebrity Cruises Retreat includes drinks as part of its package, then you'll be pleased to hear that the answer is yes, absolutely! One of Celebrity Cruises Retreat's privileges is its Unlimited Premium Drink Package, featuring a variety of red, white and sparkling wines. You'll also have a complimentary in-suite mini-bar stocked with soda, beer, and water.
With so many incredible activities and excursions to enjoy when on your cruise holiday, it's often tricky to know what to do first! Well, here's another of the great Celebrity Cruises Retreat benefits – you'll have access to your own butler service and Destination Experience Specialist throughout your time on board.
While your butler assists with everything from packing and unpacking to making dinner reservations and spa appointments, you can chat with your Destination Experience Specialist to plan your cruise holiday top to-do list. You can even contact your butler wherever you are onboard using The Retreat's brand-new feature, 'Butler Chat' – an app accessed from your personal device.
The perks of holidaying at The Retreat extend even further. In fact, you'll find heaps more exclusive benefits on offer to make your holiday even more relaxed and enjoyable. For example:
Priority departure and embarkation at most destinations
Unlimited speciality dining package
Access to The Spa’s SEA Thermal Suite or Persian Garden and dedicated spa concierge
Reserved theatre seating
Complimentary fitness classes and laundry service
Please note that some perks are dependent on your suite level and ship availability.
If you are keen to video chat with friends and family while you're away, send emails, browse social media or watch your favourite movies, you'll be delighted to learn that The Retreat includes the Premium WiFi package. With this unlimited access, you can stay connected throughout your cruise with fast and reliable internet access across the ship.
Gratuities are charged separately from your Retreat package. However, you can opt to prepay gratuities for onboard staff when you make your booking.
The dress code at The Retreat mirrors that across the rest of the ship, i.e., generally relaxed yet sophisticated. Poolside, you can keep it casual but avoid swimwear in dining areas.
If you are spending the evening in exclusive areas, such as Luminae, you are encouraged to wear smart-casual attire. Meanwhile, the formal nights onboard provide an opportunity to dress up.
While the Celebrity Cruises Retreat upgrade does come with a higher price tag, many guests find the added value well worth the cost, particularly for special occasions or those seeking a truly indulgent experience. From the personalised attention and exclusivity to the culinary excellence and convenience offered, it will give you an amazing cruise holiday that is truly memorable.
If you are wondering about the Celebrity Cruises Retreat cost, the exact amount will depend on the suite and itinerary chosen, but it reflects the level of luxury and exclusivity provided.
Joining The Retreat is as simple as booking a suite that includes access to this exclusive offering.
Here’s how to book Celebrity Cruises Retreat:
Choose Your Cruise: Visit Celebrity Cruises’ website or speak to a cruise agent to find an itinerary that suits your preferences.
Select a Suite: Book one of the eligible suites, such as a Sky Suite, Royal Suite, or Iconic Suite.
Enhance Your Experience: Add optional extras like speciality dining reservations or shore excursions to make your trip even more memorable.
If you're ready to discover the pinnacle of luxury at sea, Celebrity Cruises’ Retreat is the perfect choice. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want to indulge, you can be assured that this exclusive suite class will deliver an exceptional cruise holiday.
Author: Bulletin Editor
Role: Cruise Content Editor