questions on Solstice, go ahead make my day :)

[mrshark]

just got off Solstice for 2nd time this past Sunday, any questions i'll be glad to help.

[Tiki_Man]

Ok, couple of questions

 

Who was the Hotel Director, Cruise Director and Pool Band?

 

Was Muster Drill at 4:45 and did you line up outside on the Promenade?

 

If you did any water activity, how was the Pool Temp (and was it crowded and split into adult and kid pools) how was the water temp at the Island Stops?

 

How crowded did it feel in St Martin with the Allure next to Solstice?

 

If you dined in MDR, was there a "favorite" item?

 

Don't even want to talk about the Noro stuff because I am confident they have sanitized prior to our March 6th sailing.

 

Thank you in advance for any info.

 

Tiki

[mrshark]

1) Hotel director was a woman, I forget her name. Cruise director was some guy named Ian, very nice. pool band they had some tacky guy playing steel drums to a karaoke machine, I did not like. They also had a filipino band play a couple of times, they were o/k.

 

2)Muster drill was next morning @10AM if I remember right, ours was in the theater, pretty painless.

 

3)both pool areas on sea days were packed, seats were hard to get, we got there early and had no issues. Pools were warm, no problems.

 

4)we stayed on ship in St. Maarten, been there many times, looked crowded day we were there there was us, Allure which is monstrous, a princess ship I think and a Holland america ship, and a MSC ship. Crowded indeed!

 

5) We were in AQ class and ate in BLU, never went into MDR whole cruise

 

6)Our cruise was the last I think of the NORO precautions. We had no issues, we use plenty of hand sanitizer and had no worries, wiped down our room with clorox wipes and watched what we touched.

 

Overall our cruise was great, biggest issue we had was insanely crowded on sea days and lines for food due to everything being made for you due to noro scare.

[CaroleLee]

just got off Solstice for 2nd time this past Sunday, any questions i'll be glad to help.

 

We too are returning to Solstice in a few weeks. Will again be AQ. How is the new anytime system working in Blu? Did you make a reservation for a specific time/table? Menu favorites?

Any noticable wear & tear on the ship? Did you use the ilounge?

 

Thanks

Carole

[Mr. Luckytoo]

Curious about the Persian Gardens. Since you were in AQ did you utilize that part of the ship, if so was it crowded?

 

Has the library re-opened?

[mrshark]

Only wear and tear on ship I noticed was the varnish on our wood balcony railing was pretty much gone. Ship was in very good shape.

 

anytime dining on solstice worked out fine for us, we usually showed up for dinner around 6:45 and never had more than a 2-3 minute wait for the people in front of us to be escorted to their tables. Also never had a problem getting a table for 2.

 

We did not use the i lounge.

 

Persian gardens was great, we used it almost daily for about 1/2 hour to unwind, only 8 lounge seats in there but was never full, at least when we were there.

 

Library was closed when we were there last week.

 

We ate in Murano's 2x, anything on that menu looked good.

 

In Blu, my favorite thing was the lamb shank, and one night they had halibut in a puff pastry that was outstanding. I like frogs legs and they had them too one night, excellent. Blackened tuna was good, so were the short ribs.

[djandnic]

For the self walk off, do you know what they starting letting people off?

 

Did you fly out of FLL, and if so, what time did you get there and how long did it take to get through security?

 

We are taking our first Celebrity cruise next month, and we're very excited to try this line based on all the favorable reports. We have mainly sailed on Royal and have Diamond level, which is Elite on Celebrity, so I anxious to see how they compare.

 

Also as a first Celebrity cruiser, anything specific think we need to make sure we try that might be unique to Celebrity?

 

Just a little concern since we have a fairly early flight and having the Allure there as well. I've seen other say the self walk off didn't start until 7 or later, which is late compared to other ships we've been on. I think the last time we went out of FLL we were standing at our gate in the airport at 7:30.

 

Thanks for the information!!!:)

[mrshark]

we did self walk off and were off the ship around 8:15, at the airport by 8:45, made an 11:30 flight with time to spare. We were the last ship to get into port that day, didn't get tied up to the dock till about 7:10AM, cleared by customs @8AM. From pier to FLL airport was only about 15 minutes, probably less.

 

To us anyway we like Celebrity way more than Royal. Do not miss Murano's, worth the extra $$. Bistro on 5 is great too. There is also a food station in the indoor pool area, healthy good stuff, usually not too crowded. Burgers and hot dogs seem to be of a higher quality than Royal as well, out by the mast grill above the pool.

 

You will like Solstice.

[SunnyD2]

We are first time cruisers--just a few questions (as the thread I just typed some how disappeared :).

 

1. Any things that you can suggest that are "must see" or "must do" on the ship or in any of the ports.

2. What are your thoughts on the beverage packages? We are moderate drinkers, but not sure how things will go if we are sitting at the pool all day or shows and nightclubs in the evening?

3. Is there a good time that we should get to the pool for seats? If you go early and stay for a while, can you put your towel down if you leave to go to the pool or get a drink? How does that work??

4. We were not planning on going to any of the "pay" restaurants mainly due to spending more $$. Would you highly recommend it...may be something I can try to push the hubby on!

5. We are in a balcony cabin. Is there anything special that we should know about this? I see many people posting that are in suites or what appears to be higher up rooms. Are we going to be missing out on stuff?

6. Did you use room service at all? Any pointers on this would be great!

7. Any pointers on anything else would be much appreciated (ie -things to pack, see, do).

 

As this is our first experience (and a BIG trip for us) I want to get the most out of it, but also have a relaxing time in the process.

 

Thank you!!

[djandnic]

we did self walk off and were off the ship around 8:15, at the airport by 8:45, made an 11:30 flight with time to spare. We were the last ship to get into port that day, didn't get tied up to the dock till about 7:10AM, cleared by customs @8AM. From pier to FLL airport was only about 15 minutes, probably less.

 

To us anyway we like Celebrity way more than Royal. Do not miss Murano's, worth the extra $$. Bistro on 5 is great too. There is also a food station in the indoor pool area, healthy good stuff, usually not too crowded. Burgers and hot dogs seem to be of a higher quality than Royal as well, out by the mast grill above the pool.

 

You will like Solstice.

 

Yes, it sounds like the Solstice will be a great cruise! I know we're looking forward to it tremendously!

 

We are looking forward to trying Murano's and the others as it will be a change from the ones on Royal.

 

We have a 9:50 flight, so it sounds like it might be close. There are many other flights, and we're flying SW so no charge to change flights if we need to, but we would like to catch this flight if possible. I guess we'll find out. Thanks for the replies!

[waterbug123]

We are first time cruisers--just a few questions (as the thread I just typed some how disappeared :).

 

1. Any things that you can suggest that are "must see" or "must do" on the ship or in any of the ports.

2. What are your thoughts on the beverage packages? We are moderate drinkers, but not sure how things will go if we are sitting at the pool all day or shows and nightclubs in the evening?

3. Is there a good time that we should get to the pool for seats? If you go early and stay for a while, can you put your towel down if you leave to go to the pool or get a drink? How does that work??

4. We were not planning on going to any of the "pay" restaurants mainly due to spending more $$. Would you highly recommend it...may be something I can try to push the hubby on!

5. We are in a balcony cabin. Is there anything special that we should know about this? I see many people posting that are in suites or what appears to be higher up rooms. Are we going to be missing out on stuff?

6. Did you use room service at all? Any pointers on this would be great!

7. Any pointers on anything else would be much appreciated (ie -things to pack, see, do).

 

As this is our first experience (and a BIG trip for us) I want to get the most out of it, but also have a relaxing time in the process.

 

Thank you!!

 

I was on the 2/6 sailing as well.

1. We've been to all the ports on this itinerary multiple times so don't bother with excursions. We usually get off briefly and have lunch. However, if you like the beach, both St. Thomas and St. Maarten make good beach days. On the ship, I'd consider eating at Murano's a must-do. Absolutely fantastic, and well worth the $$.

2. We had the beverage package and enjoyed it. Very convenient not having to sign for every drink, and since we indulge while on vacation, it saved us money as well.

3. Plan to get to the pool deck very early if you want seats together and in the sun. If you don't need to be right beside the pool, you can find seats later on if you go to the upper pool deck. Generally, no one will say anything if you leave your stuff for a visit to bar, pool or hot tub, or even a brief visit to grab a snack/lunch. If you take your stuff and leave only your towel, don't plan on finding your chair when you return; people will assume you've left, move your towel and take over the chair. And even if you leave all your stuff, if you're gone more than a half hour, you may find your stuff has been moved when you return. People can get pretty ticked off about seats being saved for more than a short time when not in use.

4. Eat at least once in a specialty restaurant. I personally think Murano's is tops, but Tuscan Grill is popular as well. You'll get a much better meal than the MDR (not that the MDR is bad), and you'll spend a LOT less on the cover charge than you would spend going to a comparable restaurant at home.

5. Enjoy your balcony! The extra space and amenities in suites are nice, but in no way should you feel your vacation is compromised because you "only" have a balcony. The balcony is a nice place to enjoy room service breakfast, or a drink/book/nap/all of the above in the afternoon.

6. We ordered breakfast from room service most days, and enjoyed eating it on the balcony. We also ordered pizza in the wee hours a couple of times. Tip a couple of bucks in cash to the attendant who brings your order.

7. Enjoy yourself, and don't worry about doing "everything." i.e. if you like shows, by all means go to the shows, but if you don't especially enjoy them, don't feel like you have to go to them all, just because "that's what's listed on the schedule" as the big entertainment that night. Bring a little more money than you think you'll need, don't overpack, and have fun! :)

[mrshark]

I think a 9:50 flight is way too close.

 

Sit back relax and please don't feel guilty if you miss anything on the cruise. Vacations in the Caribbean are meant for relaxation....

 

As far as ports, we went to St. Johns for the first time this cruise (from St. Thomas) and loved it. St maarten we stayed on the ship, I would recommend going to Orient Beach.

 

San Juan we went shopping, ship gets in late. Alot of people had dinner on shore.

 

Room service is great, used it several times, tip a few bucks.

 

Balcony cabins are the best. If you're in a suite you get a butler but if not don't worry about it, we never had one.

 

Don't miss Murano's. To us anyway, Tuscan Grill and Silk Harvest were just "ok" We ate in Murano's 2x.

[Mr. Luckytoo]

I see where you've been on the Allure and Oasis. How would you compare the Solstice to those mega-ships?

[Massnatives]

We were on the Solstice late last April - loved it!!! We are going again this April. Is everything on the same schedule? Brunch Buffet on San Juan day?Formal nights on the first sea and and the second last sea day? How about concerts on the lawn at night?Thanks for any responses!Laurel

[Clarkk W Griswald]

What ships are with Solstice in each port, San Juan, St Thomas, St Martin? And does Solstice dock at Havensight or Crown Bay in St Thomas?

[KirkNC]

We loved the Solstice, it is a beautiful ship, great crew. We loved the hot glass shows, we went twice (night is really cool).

 

Kirk

[baggal]

just got off Solstice for 2nd time this past Sunday, any questions i'll be glad to help.

 

Since you offered: what kind of shower do the Aqua Class cabins have? A shower over a tub or one of those tiny plastic enclosed showers? Actually, does anyone know what kind of showers are there in a basic balcony cabin and a Concierge Class cabin?

 

Thanks,

[AlanAllyn]

Since you offered: what kind of shower do the Aqua Class cabins have? A shower over a tub or one of those tiny plastic enclosed showers? Actually, does anyone know what kind of showers are there in a basic balcony cabin and a Concierge Class cabin?

 

Thanks,

The AQ showers are the nicest I have had on any cruise ship. They are not tubs. They have glass doors and you can actually bend over in them. The water jets felt really good on my back.

[adamtennis]

just got off Solstice for 2nd time this past Sunday, any questions i'll be glad to help.

 

I know it's difficult - but if you (or anyone else) has a copy of the dailies from a recent Solstice cruise, I'd greatly appreciate it :)

 

Thanks,

 

Adam

[itsyourbuc]

The person with the 9:50 flight will be fine. I fly out of Ft Lauderdale at 8:50 and have no problem.

[Lois R]

The showers on the S class are all really nice, in all cabin categories

(just my opinion). Plastic? No...they are regular shower doors. They

do not have tubs but the doors open from the center and the

showerheads in AQ are larger than the regular cabins.

[waterbug123]

I see where you've been on the Allure and Oasis. How would you compare the Solstice to those mega-ships?

 

Specialty dining on each is great, very comparable IMO.

Solstice has Murano's, Silk Harvest and Tuscan Grill for upscale; Oasis/Allure has Chops, Giovanni's, 150 Central Park for upscale.

Solstice has Bistro on 5 and Il Bacio, which I guess are sort of comparable to Oasis/Allure's Park Cafe and Cafe Promenade.

There are a few more casual places on Oasis/Allure, like the Solarium Bistro, Boardwalk Dog House, and Sorrento's (pizza), which is open into the wee hours, as well as Rita's Cantina (Mexican) and Johnny Rockets that have a small additional charge. So definitely more variety on Royal.

However, when it comes to the main buffet, I preferred the selections on Solstice... more made to order sandwiches, salads, pasta etc. and the upper pool deck burger grill on Solstice (can't remember the name, Ocean Grill maybe?) was better than the similar Wipe Out Cafe on Oasis/Allure. I also thought the main dining room service on Solstice had slightly better service than Royal.

 

If you like recreational activities, obviously Oasis/Allure can't be topped, with the ice rinks, rock walls, flow riders, zip line, and mini golf.

 

Pool area: Solstice pool deck feels VERY crowded; too many chairs (all occupied on sea days) crammed in too small a space. We usually had to go to the upper deck to find chairs. Despite the number of pax on Oasis/Allure, the much larger pool area meant we could nearly always find chairs by a pool. Solstice solarium is nice, but the solarium hot tubs on Oasis/Allure are huge, and the Solarium buffet is very convenient for snacks.

 

Casino: Solstice gets the nod, because it's entirely smoke-free, not just half and half like Royal ships.

 

Far fewer intercom announcements on Solstice, definitely a plus.

 

So many wide open public areas on Oasis/Allure, i.e. Promenade, Central Park and the Boardwalk make it easy to not feel crowded.

 

If you like dancing, you'll probably prefer Oasis/Allure. Solstice has the disco with music that appeals more to a younger crowd (20's), and sometimes some nice live dance music in the Atrium. Oasis/Allure also have the disco for the younger set, but also Dazzles with dance music that seems more geared toward 40's-60's, Bolero's for dancing to a Latin beat, and sometimes some live Atrium-like dance music in the Viking Crown Lounge.

 

So there ya go. In some areas I'd give the nod to Solstice, in others I'd give it to Oasis/Allure. Just depends on your priorities and preferences.

[waterbug123]

The person with the 9:50 flight will be fine. I fly out of Ft Lauderdale at 8:50 and have no problem.

 

I often book a 10-ish flight out of FLL as well, but I'd caution against assuring someone that would be fine. When we got off Solstice this past Sunday, disembarking was delayed a bit because the ship didn't clear customs right away. The line to self disembark was huge and I think it was around 8:00 or even a little after before we were off the ship. We had a friend meeting us, but other friends had to get their car from the parking garage which for some reason took about 15 minutes more. At FLL, I have priority status with my airline, but the regular lines can be quite long on cruise mornings. Security at FLL is hit or miss. Again, not usually too bad, but the later it gets on a cruise disembarkation morning, the longer it is, so priority status helps. YMMV

[igeewhiz]

How about picnic on lawn do you need to make reservations? Thanks

[igeewhiz]

@waterbug123

 

thanks for the info..my wife is a closet smoker..accurate no smoking at all on solstice or certain areas only..thanks