Freddie on Reflection……

Back on dry land, after a few nights aboard the absolutely phenomenal ‘Celebrity Reflection’ and one phrase sticks in my head when I think of the last few jaw-dropping days; ‘Please don’t make me get off Captain!’ Yes, as I had expected after having sampled the sister ship- Celebrity Solstice- a few years ago (that’s another story) the Reflection does not disappoint.

The moment you see her on the horizon from the coach window, you become drenched in a feeling of admiration and awe; you pull up to the docks alongside her and a crisp, clean, ice white exterior greets you as you move into the check in area before boarding. Kind of like seeing a 122,000 tonne Italian supercar, floating in front of you.

Walking aboard, you are instantly surrounded by that high quality, no expense spared décor that has become synonymous with Celebrity Cruise Lines. Touring the ship there is a relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel instantly comfortable, improved by the attentive staff smiling as they work; again something which is the norm with this cruise line. Inside the belly of the ship there is also no shortage of bars, lounges and public rooms for you to kick back with a cocktail or glass of wine, while listening to the ambient music in each different place; my particular favourite would have to be the Martini Bar which has a frosted top to keep your drinks cold, it must be seen to be believed.

Up top Celebrity Reflection also offers a great choice of outdoor seating areas and plush loungers, well I say loungers, they are practically beds (uber comfortable anyway whatever they are). Real grass dominates the centre, amazing how such an everyday thing like grass can impress you, but hey it did me! Also check out ‘The Alcoves’ on the ship, a private hire area for when the weather is warm, boasting private service and shade up or shade down facility when it suits you.

Now here is where the ship really excels itself, yes you guessed it, DINING! My favourite part of most cruises if I’m honest. For a start the buffet restaurant, the ‘Oceanview Café’, is cleverly designed into separate pods, each serving something different- great if you just want a quick salad, or if you’re like me, a giant ice cream cone with a disgraceful mix of flavours! This restaurant has ample seating and is open most of the day. It also features a very handy drink station serving juice, water, regular tea and coffee for no extra charge, so it’s brilliant if you just need a quick rest in the afternoon and a nice cold ice water to keep the sunstroke at bay!

Moving downstairs for dinner, the Main Restaurant is nigh on perfect: great service, a mouthwatering menu and surroundings that would suit, well, a Celebrity. But it’s the speciality dining that really gives the ship something to shout about: Qsine, an ultra-modern, almost high tech feel using Ipads as menus, and Murano’s, a slick, warm, beautifully finished restaurant, with wonderful dishes to cater for even the highest class pallet. A completely contrasting experience to anything I’ve ever seen or tasted at sea.

Finally, the facilities. Well the ship has everything. Nothing left out. From the chic theatre to the various pools and Jacuzzis, this floating wonderland has it all. No stone has been left unturned, no corners have been cut. In 7 years in the industry I have to say Celebrity Reflection is truly the best ship I have ever seen. Don’t take my word for it, the only way you can experience this astounding feat of engineering is to see her for yourself.

Like what you read? You know where I am and I look forward to hearing from you!