Solstice class after Ruby Princess - how many steps down?

[Infi]

After these latest posts, I'm now even more convinced OP's intentions are of the stir-up-controversy variety and not genuine curiosity about trying a new line. Why on earth would anyone try a new line if they had negative expectations going into it? Measured expectations is one thing (I don't expect Seabourn style service on Celebrity), but this is something completely different. Plenty of folks who regularly cruise both lines have replied with valuable, been-there-done-that experience and info, particularly Eroller, who has posted some fantastic photos and comparisons of the lines, promenades, and ship features. (Great photos and a sincere thanks for sharing them, Eroller!) Each reply has been summarily shot down and had every word of their post parsed. It's frustrating to see and pretty rude, to boot.

 

I doubt anything will change OP's mind at this point. I give up. Perhaps a nice, private sailboat is in order, to truly enjoy the sea and "nautical tradition". :cool:

[Solstice23]

Oasis and Allure.

We sailed Oasis and were surprised that both the food and entertainment options that you seem to long for were much better then our Caribbean princess cruise! Actually oasis had the best entertainment over any cruise we have been on. And other then a few lines embarking we found many quiet areas compared to smaller ship!

 

Dint Knock it till you try it! We did not think we would like it but our friends picked it and we had a blast !!!! Yes you need to pay for some great meals but on princess you pay for a quiet area! That adds up also!

 

Princess is a great line, but your comments make no sense to be honest

[lusitanica]

I'm going to preface this post with the fact that I have only sailed Celebrity, so I cannot compare the two lines. Celebrity is an amazing product, so sophisticated, relaxing, and service oriented. We have friends that have been loyal Princess customers and after one trip on the Celebrity Equinox they will never go back to Princess.

 

MDR: Menu changes everyday in the MDR, you will find an "everyday menu" with selections you can get throughout your cruise. Food is, in my opinion, very good. I have never had any issue at all with the quality of food that has come out, DH and I would both consider ourselves "foodies" and enjoy the food on Celebrity.

 

Buffets: We don't usually eat in the Buffet area, there is a great "healthy-option" called the Aqua Spa Cafe that is where we go for lunches they have cold soups, salads, salmon filets, ect. Very good lunch, plus I don't like the crowds or the concept of a buffet. I have seen some very yummy looking things while passing through though! Pasta station, salads, sandwich/wrap stations. Breakfast we always have brought up from the butler to enjoy on the balcony.

 

Afternoon Tea: If you have a suite, your butler will bring it to your door. If you are in any other category cabin, you can enjoy afternoon tea in the buffet area with pastries and small sandwiches.

 

Entertainment: An area I don't realy care much about, I don't particularly find the singers/dancers to catch and keep my attention but my father in law (who enjoys these things more than I do) absolutely loved the production shows on Celebrity. I liked the acrobats/comedians more. Always an available seat in the theatre. Additionally, there are lots of people all over the ship entertaining, there is usually a guitar player or accapala group in the coffee bar, piano in Michaels club.

 

Hopefully that helps, but really most of us consider Celebrity a superior product for all the above plus the overall quality of the cruise.

 

Thank you.

Afternoon Tea is a nice touch of class.

On the Ruby it was white gloves service in a restaurant.

Is it only in a buffet on S ships?

 

Have you tried longer (12 nights) cruises on S ships?

What are they? How many shows in the main theatre?

Thanks a lot.

[lusitanica]

We sailed Oasis and were surprised that both the food and entertainment options that you seem to long for were much better then our Caribbean princess cruise! Actually oasis had the best entertainment over any cruise we have been on. And other then a few lines embarking we found many quiet areas compared to smaller ship!

 

Dint Knock it till you try it! We did not think we would like it but our friends picked it and we had a blast !!!! Yes you need to pay for some great meals but on princess you pay for a quiet area! That adds up also!

 

Princess is a great line, but your comments make no sense to be honest

 

Oasis class is planned for 2011.

FYI there are tons of quiet places on Ruby. It's free.

[The Big Booper]

Oasis class is planned for 2011.

FYI there are tons of quiet places on Ruby. It's free.

 

Really.

 

Then I guess you haven't noticed that Oasis went into service Dec 2009 and Allure went into Service Nov 2010.

 

I never knew Sanctuary was free. I suppose Princess also gives away the Chef's Table, Ultimate Balcony Dinner, Ultimate Ship's tour, etc. etc.

 

But Princess does have loads of free beepers to give out when you have to wait an hour to get into Anytime Dining, which is always being discussed over on the Princess Boards. After two dozen cruises on =X= and RCI, I can safely say I have never ever seen a beeper on any of these ships.

[cleavesteam]

I have only sailed on HAL and Princess and would very much like to sail Celebrity, but one thing prevents me from doing that. The cost of internet. Since I own my own business and my wife likes to stream movies quite a bit, we tend to rack up the minutes.

 

On Princess, if you book a full suite, you get many perks. One of which is complimentary internet in your suite. If I'm going to pay extra for a suite and all those extra perks, the last thing I expect is to get nickled and dimed. I would much rather have most of my costs figured out ahead of time and not have to worry about additional charges while on a cruise. HAL also charges additional for internet in their full suites, so that and a few other reasons is why I haven't been back there.

 

Hopefully Celebrity and others will look at what Princess offers for their full suite passengers and consider doing the same. I like sailing Princess, but then I wouldn't mind trying Celebrity as I have heard many nice things about it.

[TomTN]

I have only sailed on HAL and Princess and would very much like to sail Celebrity, but one thing prevents me from doing that. The cost of internet. Since I own my own business and my wife likes to stream movies quite a bit, we tend to rack up the minutes.

 

On Princess, if you book a full suite, you get many perks. One of which is complimentary internet in your suite. If I'm going to pay extra for a suite and all those extra perks, the last thing I expect is to get nickled and dimed. I would much rather have most of my costs figured out ahead of time and not have to worry about additional charges while on a cruise. HAL also charges additional for internet in their full suites, so that and a few other reasons is why I haven't been back there.

 

Hopefully Celebrity and others will look at what Princess offers for their full suite passengers and consider doing the same. I like sailing Princess, but then I wouldn't mind trying Celebrity as I have heard many nice things about it.

 

You stream movies on a cruise? sorry.

[Canadianhey!]

We have just returned from Ruby Princess.

Briefly: a true classic cruise ship which follows the best maritime traditions.

 

Now we are looking at something different but close in class to that level.

Solstice class seems to be the nearest option.

I am doing my homework on Solstice class.

What I see already is that Solstice class is one level below as a ship (unfortunately, just a modern floating hotel, not a ship) and the quality of accommodation (roughly for the same price) will be one level below as well.

 

I am still in the hope that food and entertainment on Silhouette will not disappoint after Ruby Princess.

 

Any info (from those happened to be both on Ruby and Solstice class) about food and entertainment on Silhouette (or sister-ships) will be appreciated.

 

Thank you.

 

I sailed the Ruby when it was brand new and then the next week got on the Solstice which also was brand new. I found the Ruby a wonderful ship and can not say anything bad about it but honestly the Solstice is a bit classier. They are minor difference, but differences that you will remember. Such as memosa upon arrival, escorted to your room, desert trays shown at supper time (ask and they will bring back showing deserts). It is the little things that make celebrity one step above princess and not only on the solstice class but on all their ships.

 

Eventhough we do not have children, I would though say that Princess is better equiped for kids. Celebrity ships are more geared toward people without children, which is another plus (for us anyway).

[Canadianhey!]

I have only sailed on HAL and Princess and would very much like to sail Celebrity, but one thing prevents me from doing that. The cost of internet. Since I own my own business and my wife likes to stream movies quite a bit, we tend to rack up the minutes.

 

On Princess, if you book a full suite, you get many perks. One of which is complimentary internet in your suite. If I'm going to pay extra for a suite and all those extra perks, the last thing I expect is to get nickled and dimed. I would much rather have most of my costs figured out ahead of time and not have to worry about additional charges while on a cruise. HAL also charges additional for internet in their full suites, so that and a few other reasons is why I haven't been back there.

 

Hopefully Celebrity and others will look at what Princess offers for their full suite passengers and consider doing the same. I like sailing Princess, but then I wouldn't mind trying Celebrity as I have heard many nice things about it.

 

Do you realize that there are on-demand movies on the celebrity ships

[FritzG]

Such as memosa upon arrival, escorted to your room, desert trays shown at supper time (ask and they will bring back showing deserts). .

 

On the Eclipse TA last month we were not escorted to our room, and we never saw a dessert tray at dinner or lunch in the main dining room.

[Canadianhey!]

On the Eclipse TA last month we were not escorted to our room, and we never saw a dessert tray at dinner or lunch in the main dining room.

 

 

They have taken the dessert trays away, but we always mention at supper to our waiter how sad it is that they took that away and would really be nice to see our dessert. The next night we always have dessert trays. One thing you can say about celebrity "They aim to please" We have always been escorted to our room, but that being said our last cruise was in the spring, where we were handed a memosa and the guy took my carry on bag found me. Maybe it was a timing issue. We always arrive later rather than earlier on departure day.

[HazyDavy]

I sailed on the Caribbean Princess and it was fine. I was also on the Emerald Princess, when it was a few months old, and it also was fine. No real complaints, but nothing special. I see no need to attack them. Enjoyed both Princess cruises but after those cruises we tried X and now have no desire to return to Princess

 

The Celebrity M class ships are very nice but the S class ships are something special. I was on one of the first Solstice sailings and found the ship very upscale and elegant. Being able to play poker in the casino without choking on smoke is worth the price of admission alone. The cabins are (or seem) bigger than comparable cabins on Princess, the beds more comfortable, and no smoke on the balconies.;)

 

Looking forward to AQ on the Eclipse in February.

 

I think the OP isn't getting the attention the got used to on the NCL board anymore and is just looking to stir things up here. I'm looking forward to his detailed review and videos. I'm sure he's packing his tape measure as we speak.:rolleyes:

[petrakae]

Oh me, Oh my! I am just so grateful for the opportunity of cruising Celebrity in a basic verandah cabin........... We make our own choices and have never been disappointed yet. I must admit, I personally prefer the 'smaller' ships. Different horses for different courses huh?

[lusitanica]

I am thinking about booking a longer (~11 days) cruise on a Solstice class ship.

How many shows do they have in the main theatre for longer cruises?

 

Thank you.

[Gonzo70]

I am thinking about booking a longer (~11 days) cruise on a Solstice class ship.

How many shows do they have in the main theatre for longer cruises?

 

Thank you.

 

There are typically about three production shows with the singers/dancers, but just about every night there is some type of entertainment in the main theater (i.e. musician, comedian, etc.).

[OuiOnboard]

We haven't been on Ruby or Silhouette yet, but we can say based on many cruises on Princess and Celebrity ships of recent vintage that overall we prefer the food quality and presentation on Celebrity.

[lawra09]

We have been on both and agree that cabins and food superior on the Solstice. Solstice cabins have full size leather sofas in all cabins plus their balconies have chaise chairs that go back and larger tables for dining on balcony. Staff appeared to be happier on Solstice than Ruby making for better service also. Our votes go to the Solstice.

[Sparx58]

My Business Partner sent me this thread as it is something we discuss all the time.

In Fairness, people were likely offended by the "how many steps down?" portion of your original post as it does speak of (to) a preconcieved notion.

We have done 22 Cruises and bear no particular allegience with any specific Cruise line . . . I will say for us much depends on who is going with us as to the right fit of the specific Ship (or Cruise line) we choose. We have sailed the Ruby twice (one Transatlantic) and think Princess is fantastic however if we have children along on the cruise a better choice may be an RCCL Freedom class ship (range of activities). The Itinerary, time of year, and/or price may also be a factor in our determination.

My Business partner has done them all as well and was very impressed with the Solstice. He mentioned food and specifically a "can do" ~ "make it happen" attitude amongst the staff.

We (3 couples) will be Cruising Miami to Southampton on an Eastbound Transatlantic in April aboard the Eclipse. I trust and expect it will be everything it advertises to be . . .

Be Blessed, Sparx :)

[lusitanica]

My Business Partner sent me this thread as it is something we discuss all the time.

 

In Fairness, people were likely offended by the "how many steps down?" portion of your original post as it does speak of (to) a preconcieved notion.

 

We have done 22 Cruises and bear no particular allegience with any specific Cruise line . . . I will say for us much depends on who is going with us as to the right fit of the specific Ship (or Cruise line) we choose. We have sailed the Ruby twice (one Transatlantic) and think Princess is fantastic however if we have children along on the cruise a better choice may be an RCCL Freedom class ship (range of activities). The Itinerary, time of year, and/or price may also be a factor in our determination.

 

My Business partner has done them all as well and was very impressed with the Solstice. He mentioned food and specifically a "can do" ~ "make it happen" attitude amongst the staff.

 

We (3 couples) will be Cruising Miami to Southampton on an Eastbound Transatlantic in April aboard the Eclipse. I trust and expect it will be everything it advertises to be . . .

 

Be Blessed, Sparx :)

 

Thank you for your input.

I don't see any reason for anyone to be offended because as a group of three we'll obviously experience two steps down after Ruby Princess.

Solstice class does not offer anything equal to Ruby's mini-suites (essentially large balcony cabins for three) for the same price and to Ruby's vast variety of open spaces (a must for a passenger ship) we thoroughly enjoyed on Ruby.

Those are simply two obvious technical facts.

 

The food on Ruby was excellent. Just to mention sturgeon and duck in the buffet, pheasant in the MDR... 24/7 culinary festival.

Afternoon tea with white gloves service in a restaurant setting. Show your afternoon tea and everyone will know what a cruise ship you are.

 

Four shows in the main theatre (with an amazing culinary presentation - 5 shows) during 7-nt cruise.

 

I have found helpful info in celebrity threads here.

One poster saved us money - "premium classes" ruled out.

Very controversial reports on food...

 

We are still in the hope that by the time the Silhouette sets sail Celebrity will implement something really impressive (the new ship for NYC itinerary!) as far as dining and entertainment are concerned.

 

Happy cruising!

[arpster]

Ruby is indeed a lovely ship...will definitely sail on her again

[kellyclayt]

I would love to try Princess, however, we are more and more attracted to Celebrity because my husband loves the Casino and I love my balcony. Celebrity is the only cruise line (to our knowledge) on which both of these venues are smoke-free!

[Sparx58]

The Mini-Suites are spacious on the Princess Grand class ships and available at what I find is an excellent value. Virtually a must having 3 of you. The cantilever balcony also gives you an "out there" open air feel as well. We especially liked the Captain (Tony Yeoman) of the Ruby as he was a delightful bit of humor each day.

 

Lastly, in my experience, the Entertainment aboard the Ruby (specifically) has an exceptional technical advantage that I have never seen before on any other Cruise ship. It's cutting edge technology that makes a difference . . .

 

Be Blessed, Chuck :)

[Vegas Lobster]

Having 10+ Princess Cruises under my belt, plus a wonderful sailing on CELEBRITY SOLSTICE, there is absolutely no comparison. SOLSTICE and her sisters are by far the superior ships.

 

I have cruised on CROWN PRINCESS (sister to RUBY) and GOLDEN PRINCESS (earlier version of the Grand Class). These ships are comfortable enough, but the overall design is not that impressive and well over 10 years old. The CROWN PRINCESS and her subsequent sisters have an extra deck of cabins and almost 500 more passengers over the previous Grand Class ships. This can equate to crowding in certain areas. Add to that low ceilings, bland decor, paint by numbers art, very small standard staterooms, and numerous revenue producing announcements during the day. If you book a mini-suite, be prepared to have your balcony open to all decks above. In other words, no privacy not to mention objects from the balconies above can end up on your balcony. If you book a standard stateroom, be prepared for something smaller compared to most competitors (no sitting area or couch). Entertainment is ok as is the food, but nothing to really write home about. That great promenade deck you love so much is average at best. It's rather narrow and not teak, but fitted with a rubber surface. If a traditional promenade deck is so important to you, I suggest Cunard or Holland America Line and not Celebrity. There is also no forward facing lounge as you suggest on RUBY PRINCESS. Just the fitness center. The deck above the fitness center is The Sanctuary and you have to pay extra for it. There is a pseudo observation lounge called "Skywalkers", but it's actually aft and has the funnel blocking the forward view. Plus it's pretty much deserted during the day and used as the disco during the night.

 

In favor of Princess I will say they provide a very consistent product. So much so that once you have sailed on one Princess ship, you have pretty much sailed them all. The bland decor is the same right down to the lighting fixtures and carpet pattern. Princess regulars love this but I find it boring. I think Olive Garden on the high seas. The one thing I do really like about the Grand Class ships are the pool areas. They are top notch and there are plenty of pools to choose from. They are all fresh water and open 24 hours. I used to love the glass enclosed pool, but that was pretty much ruined with the addition of MUTS which blasts cartoons and video games during the day. It used to be a wonderful adult spot.

 

All this being said, I hardly consider RUBY PRINCESS the best option in the Caribbean as you suggest. Perhaps to you, but certainly not to me and many others. I also find it interesting you make this assumption without have experienced the other ships offered. Very presumptuous.

 

Regarding the Solstice Class, I personally think they are the best designed and most stunning new ships on the high seas. They are modern, airy, bright, contemporary, first class ships. The public spaces are jaw dropping beautiful and the food, service, and entertainment is first rate (for mass-market/premium ships). The art work onboard actually makes you stop and have a second look. You may not like it, but it will evoke a reaction which to me is a great thing. This is something unheard of on Princess. Art on Princess could easily be transplanted from a non-descript Marriott in Des Moines. It's true there is not a traditional promenade and if this is deal breaker I suggest you go back to Princess. The fact is that no Celebrity ships have a full wrap around promenade deck so this is nothing new for the line. The decks on the Solstice Class are not teak, but they do use a very expensive imitation teak that is the best I've seen. It even has ridges and a texture like teak, and unlike the cheaper rubber substitute it's doesn't get overly hot or slippery. Sure beats the cheap blue plastic found on some Princess decks and most balconies.

 

Some other things that place Celebrity a notch above Princess ...

- no annoying announcements except one at noon

- unlimited towels by the pool

- higher quality pool deck furniture and all loungers have pads

- champagne at embarkation

- cold towels and sorbet poolside

- superior food quality and presentation (this is subjective)

- a higher level of service in the dining venues

- far more dining options on the Solstice Class

 

Attached is a link to my photo gallery of CELEBRITY SOLSTICE. It was a joy to take these pictures as the ship was just so stunning. I didn't even take pictures of CROWN PRINCESS because frankly it just wasn't that inspiring.

http://gallery.mac.com/ekroller#100378

 

Ernie

 

 

Hi Ernie! I just checked out your pictures of the Solstice and wanted to let you know that they are AMAZING! Thank you for taking the time to take them :) I am getting ready to book one of the S class ships for this December and just seeing the pics get me totally excited to book this! Thanks again, Norah :)

[Despegue]

Lusitanica,

 

As you are, like me, a ship-lover, you will have to agree that one of the main characteristics for a fine ship is the fact that she has a seperate personality, made by its crew AND INTERIOURS.

As ALL Grand and Crown Class vessels are CARBON COPIES of eachother with the same interiours going as far as copying the artwork, I say that they are glorified ferries. The ferry reference is also valid for their sea handling capabilities, which is another requirement to be a "fine vessel".

[The Big Booper]

Another fact to consider is that Princess pretty much ignores the East Coast except for the crowded CB out of Brooklyn in the Summer (along with hundreds of children) and the other Super-Grands out of Florida for ho-hum itineraries in the Winter. We are not flying to Florida for short cruises any more but will take a cruise if we are in Florida for other reasons.

 

We look forward to the Silhouette in Dec and expect it to be as fantastic as the Solstice was last June.