buncosquad

We only sail in ICs and EVs. Great staterooms. But, only sailed seas (i.e., Med, Caribbean, Alaska inside), not ocean crossings. No issues. Absolutely unforgettable balconies (with hot tub) in either stateroom, IC being unparalleled views while underway. The wind isn't an issue as the shape of the glass in front on the IC balcony is good for air flow. Having said this, you may need to hang onto towels if laid out on the chaise or chairs. Best part, which I like, is the 270 degree views and massive bathroom jacuzzi tub! Your room attendant will fill that every night when you're at dinner/drinks. Worth every penny.

Yes, it comes in from shoreside concierge, but never needed. At all terminals, we have seen a priority sign. We use private black car service and have always been waived through and never asked to show a placard at any port.

We only stay in Iconics or EVs. For Iconics, whether in Europe, Fort Lauderdale, or Alaska, the Retreat manager has always met us and taken us aboard. For the EVs, have always been taken aboard by our butler. Fort Lauderdale/T25 is an efficient terminal and welcoming staff, though never thought the baggage handlers were as happy to provide their service. But, once upstairs in the Retreat lounge, the staff is good and will get you situated. Safe travels.

Galveston Limousine. It's not a long distance to port, but for 10 people, I want zero concern about being picked up and arriving on our time. Totally worth it.

We always use private shuttles, versus scheduled/public shuttles where you must be on their schedule and often picking up others. Private shuttles pick us up on our schedule, and we wait for no one. Always point to point. They track our flights and revise accordingly. We always order airport to port area hotel for a day or two before cruise, hotel to port on embarkation day, then port back to airport on disembarkation. Costs more, sure. However, the stress free travel is priceless.

Define "upper level" - In an IC, I've had Le Voyage delivered to my stateroom. At sunset. Course by course. With a bottle of superb champagne. No questions asked. That stateroom is worth every penny.

I've yet to sail on anyone that can compete with the ICs on Celebrity, at least in terms of the stateroom. Unsure of your cost point, but I go by the memories made versus the cost point. Every time. The service and support, plus the views and amenities, incredible. An EV could be a very nice fallback option to consider. We also like Cunard Queens Grill for unique sailings, so that is another alternative. Attempting (timidly) a family trip next month on an RCL Oasis class, in three Star Class staterooms... Would not consider this at all, but for the young kids. As noted by others, the small luxury lines are likewise great options. We're partial to Regent. Good luck.

Understood, and quite thorough depiction on your thread. Super helpful. I've got the three Star Class rooms (Royal Loft and both Star Lofts) on a sailing next month, same ship and itinerary, of course. Since we're already on deck 17, good that we won't need the elevator. I'll rouse all three rooms to get over for breakfast promptly upon opening for breakfast. Many thanks.

What time did you arrive @ CK for breakfast on disembarkation morning? When is Star Class required to leave staterooms? TY

Good, old Harmony. When is your cruise, or how far out will it let us book events?

Familiar with the policy, which is why I caveated my post. I sail other lines, too. I'm not a cheerleader for any of them.

Probably not in any written rule, but every time in an IC, Luminae has taken our reservation. And specific table we want. No problem. They'll even come get you and take you to your table at appointed time.

A tale of two cities...

Select your stateroom wisely. We live in our staterooms, so we select accordingly. We only book Edge class on Celebrity, and use our itineraries and staterooms as our personal retreat. The views and the silence broken only by the wind and sea is worth every penny. We typically only leave our stateroom for shore excursions, spa treatments, lunch and dinners, as well as walking the track, going to the World Class bar (Beyond and Ascent), and Cafe al Baccio. When we walk the track on sea days, every time looking down to the main pool, it is usually quite crowded (warm climes). Won't do crowds. Won't even utilize the Retreat sundeck, as likewise typically busy on sea days. As noted, select stateroom wisely and you'll have a memorable sailing, regardless of how busy is the ship.

I am doing this embarkation port next month with a 10 person family group flying in from 4 cities around the country to IAH. Using private transfers from IAH to Galveston then spending two nights at Tremont House before cruise embarkation. Using same company for private transfer from Tremont House to port for morning of embarkation. For disembarkation, once again using same private transfer from port, via Johnson Space Center, then continuing on to IAH. I just want to relax. And have a drink (even if limited in port by Texas law). 😎