Celebrity Solstice
Celebrity’s SOLSTICE
In November, I had the opportunity to cruise on Celebrity Cruise Lines’ newer ships, the Solstice. Debuting as a totally new design or class of ship, the Solstice did not disappoint! While most cruise ship designs have changed dramatically since 2000, the Solstice adds a refined level of elegance to cruising.
Perhaps the most innovative feature of this ship is the ½ acre Lawn Club with real grass. You can play Bocce, have a picnic, enjoy the Sunset patio or just run your toes through lush grass while sailing the Caribbean. The Solstice design allows for abundant natural light throughout the ship, really creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The shopping arcade “Shops on the Boulevard” is especially striking with a mellow yellow décor and huge windows.
The Solstice introduces “Aqua Spa” cabins, dedicated to spa lovers. These cabins offer unlimited access to many of the AquaSpa amenities including the Relaxation Room and Persian Garden. A Spa Concierge schedules Spa appointments, special programming, wellness classes and reservations at Blu, the Spa specialty restaurant.
And speaking of food, the Solstice daily dining options include the Grand Epernay Dining Room (with a 2 story wine tower), the Oceanview Café & Bar, the Bistro on Five, the AquaSpa Café and the Mast Grill & Bar. For those guest desiring alternate dining choices, the Solstice also features diverse restaurants with a small upcharge: Silk Harvest, serving Asian-fusion; Tuscan Grille a steakhouse with an Italian accent; Murano which offers continental cuisine (and a stunning view overlooking the ship’s wake) and Blu, serving healthy spa selections. The Café al Bacio & Gelateria has a selection of tempting pastries, gelatos and coffee drinks.
Cabanas and shade canopies line the perimeter of the Solstice pool area, allowing for non-sunworshippers to be part of the action. Dancing water fountains which change color (most dramatically at night) match the poolside music rhythm. My favorite area was the Solarium, an adults-only pool with soothing waterfalls and lighting.
The Solstice’s Sky Lounge has floor to ceiling windows with spectacular views day and night. Throughout the ship are a variety of themed lounges, a full casino, state-of-the-art fitness center, internet café, library and card/game rooms. Each evening Las Vegas style shows are presented in the main theatre. And the highlight of any evening is the Hot Glass Show with live glass-blowing demonstrations.
Cabins on the Solstice can accommodate any need: from the Penthouse Suite (1250 sq ft) to the Family Oceanview Cabin sleeping up to 6 (575 sq ft), to the Oceanview Cabin (176 sq ft) or the Inside Cabin (183 sq ft). There are connecting cabins and Handicapped equipped cabins.
Celebrity Cruises has captured a comfortably sophisticated upscale cruise experience with the Solstice. Call me today to arrange your own personal tour on the Solstice—an aesthetic voyage to please the senses!