Host Andy - Live From Century (February 2014)

[Celebrity Cruises]

It will be my pleasure to check for you !

 

Hey Andy,

 

We're trying to make a post regarding Century, but it isn't allowing us to. Is your email accessible right now?

[montgomeryfamily]

Thank you, Andy. I'm sorry to have posted the question on this thread. I had not realized there was another thread for questions until after I posted this one and then I saw that one and have posted there. Sorry I don't want to turn this one into a question thread since you have set up the other thread. I do appreciate your checking and I'll look on the other thread for the answer when you are able to check and post. Have a great cruise!

[wallie5446]

We too watched the sail away on the web cam. You could tell that the Capt had the peddle to the metal takin Her out to sea. The Ft Lauderdale web cam has put a pic up about the 'extra' steam from the stack, and one would think it was from the fast departure.

[Andy]

Hi Everyone,

 

Interesting start to our Century sailing. Embarkation was excellent. Plenty of assistance, smiling faces, and we easily obtained wheelchair assistance for Mom. My thanks to Pier staff member Kevin. He made it very easy for Mom, and if she's happy, I'm happy. Pier 4 at Port Everglades was a huge improvement over Pier 24/25. Too bad Celebrity was unable to use this pier for Eclipse, as it's a much better option.

 

I know that many folks are eager to hear what was done to Century during her Drydock. Let's put it this way.... I'm unsure what was performed on the technical / marine aspects, but I highly doubt that anything was performed to the public areas or cabins. No carpets, upgrades, soft goods, nothing. Does not seem as if any major repairs were made. In the casino, the loud speaker barely works. While I kept my Drydock expectations low, I'm surprised at what little was done. I strongly feel that Celebrity could have spruced things up, even if just a little, and performed some much needed updating. In our cabin, I suspect the carpet was replaced within the past couple of years, but stains are quite evident. The bedding seems ok - but more about that in a future update. I truly wish that Celebrity would have updated the public areas and cabins, and I feel the Drydock was a missed opportunity for both Celebrity and their Guests.

 

Rumor has it, that several folks from the other cruise line were onboard Century during the Drydock, taking tons of measurements, so I suspect this doesn't bode well for Century's future with Celebrity.

 

First impressions of the crew are fairly good. Plenty of smiles, and willingness to help. My only concern is that, when questions are asked - there's a great deal of misinformation onboard, and it seems much of the crew is new to the ship and/or has had minimal training.

 

Lunch was the typical Celebrity buffet, but most of the hot items were either warm or cold, and the roast beef was it's usual overdone, but tasty. Wish it were hotter, but it decent. One item that was a turn off, was the fried chicken, which was undercooked, and I wouldnt let my family eat it. Let's hope the buffet will improve in the coming days.

 

We had a Meet and Mingle at the Aft bar, and it was well attended. It was wonderful seeing so many dear Cruise Critic friends. Unfortunately, it started to rain heavily, so we were forced to cut it short, but I look forward to seeing everyone, over the next few days.

 

Dinner was ok, but not great. Our waiter and assistant were very friendly, but could not get coordinated. Food was served haphazardly, and they seemed focused on their other tables. We have early seating, and were in the dining room until nearly 8:30, and were one of the last to leave. Menu items were good, but again, the Mushroom soup and Prime Rib were served warm, and had the potential to be better. The caesar salad was tasteless. Thank goodness, the Chocolate cake ended the meal on a high note. I havent done this in ages, but I've asked for a different table. If we do not get it tomorrow, I will request it for the 2nd leg of our back to back sailing.

 

I did not attend the show last night, but I heard the comedian was excellent. I hope he will be onboard for the next sailing, and I will make it a point to see his show.

 

Though I covered a lot of ground, I wish to make it clear that I'm not unhappy at all, and I'm determined to have a wonderful cruise. As most of us are aware, Day 1 is never easy for guests nor crew, so I'm happy to wipe the slate clean, and hope for a better day tomorrow.

 

I will try to post Day 2 insights, late tonight or tomorrow afternoon. Hope everyone in the storm's path are doing ok - please stay safe !

Edited February 13, 2014 by Host Andy

[Andy]

BTW, I just read today's Press Release, confirming Century's April 2015 departure, so at least it's official now.

[Jessejo]

Is it just me on my iPad, or is the type in this thread minuscule? Maybe this is a new cc feature in concert with celebrity aimed at young cruisers with better eyesight than me...

 

Funny but this thread is too wide for me - I have to scroll across and I'm using my laptop. Have seen a few others like this too

[Andy]

Hi Everyone,

 

For some reason, I'm unable to start a New Thread, so I'm posting today's Century Press Relase here :

================================ ==================================

 

CELEBRITY CRUISES ANNOUNCES CELEBRITY CENTURY’S

FAREWELL 2014-2015 SEASON AND UNVEILS ‘CELEBRATION OF THE CENTURY’

Celebration to include President’s Cruise on Celebrity Century, new and special offers, and visits to record number of destinations worldwide

 

 

MIAMI– Feb. 13, 2014 – To celebrate the farewell season of Celebrity Century, the ship will host special events, including a newly introduced “President's 'Celebration of the Century' Cruise,” during a year featuring a record number of ports of call and 17 new cruise destinations for the brand. The farewell season will also feature exclusive onboard programming and special offers for guests. Celebrity Century will leave the fleet in April 2015.

 

Captain's Club loyalty members and vacationers can join Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, on the President's Celebration of the Century Cruise in Asia. The 14-night sailing from Singapore on Celebrity Century will depart March 8, 2015, and guests will travel to magnificent destinations in Vietnam and the Philippines. Further special events and exclusive onboard programming will be announced shortly.

 

From March 2014 through April 2015, Celebrity Century will visit 77 ports across 32 countries, the most destinations worldwide of any other ship in the Celebrity fleet. New exotic destinations include Manila and Boracay, Philippines; Bandar Seri Begawan (Muara), Brunei; and Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar. Guests can take their pick from culture-rich experiences in Asia, Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, the Pacific Coast and South Pacific.

 

Since its inaugural sailing in 1995, guests have enjoyed Celebrity Century’s spacious and beautifully-designed spaces, indulgent premium spa and award-winning dining experiences. Celebrity Century was the first ship to have the now hugely popular Martini Bar and Murano, the award-winning specialty restaurant.

 

Beginning today and available until April 30, 2014, guests booking any of Celebrity Century’s April 2014-2015 itineraries across the globe can receive up to $200 per stateroom in onboard credit to indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, globally influenced dining, unique shore excursions and more. Celebrity’s Captain’s Club loyalty guests can choose between the onboard credit or an exclusive savings offer. And now through February 28, 2014 both offers are combinable with Celebrity's rich 123go! offer. For more information, vacationers can visit www.celebritycruises.com, call 1-800-647-2251 or contact their travel agent.

 

About Celebrity Cruises:

Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of modern luxury, with its cool, contemporary design and warm spaces; dining experiences where the design of the venues is as important as the cuisine; and the amazing service that only Celebrity can provide, all created to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers’ precious time. Celebrity Cruises' 11 ships offer modern luxury vacations visiting all seven continents. Celebrity also presents immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska and Canada. Celebrity is one of six cruise brands operated by global cruise vacation company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE, OSE: RCL). For more information, dial 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com, or call your travel agent.

Edited February 13, 2014 by Host Andy

[mafig]

Host Andy,

Thank you so much for letting us know about your cruise. I just wish the information you posted was better. Celebrity, indeed, had the opportunity to spruce up the ship a bit for the guests who will sail on her in the next year. It's almost insulting that they didn't think we were worth it.

 

Hope the food improves.

 

I appreciate your honesty and look forward to meeting you soon.:)

 

Mary Ann

[SrTrPro]

We sailed on the Mercury (sister ship of the Century) in Jan 2011 out of Baltimore just before she was sold to the German cruise affiliate of Celebrity - it became either the Mein Schiff 1 or 2. There were a dozen or so people from the German line aboard doing all sorts of stuff during the cruise.

 

Looking forward to our PC cruise coming up on Mar 6th - Hope all you guys get the "kinks" out by then.

 

Kathi and Bruce

[lawspecial]

Thanks for this detailed review. I am sailing on March 3. Can you post menus?

[koolforkatz]

Thanks for taking the time to post this. I have two upcoming cruises on the Century. Not the review I what hoping to hear :(

[firstplacechef]

We are sailing March 6 th, hope they get their act together by then. I'm a glass half full type so I think I'll be happy. :)

[luv2cruise523]

In early 2009 we needed something to look forward to, as we were trying to cope with the sudden unexpected death of my mom 2 wks before Christmas the year before, so we choose to do a cruise out of Florida on the Century. It was bitter sweet as we wished that mom/gramie was sharing the experience with us. That cruise was somewhat therapeutic, but what it absolutely did do was made "cruise junkies" out of us! We have cruised every year since.

 

The Celebrity Century will always hold a special place in my heart, as she helped start me on my long journey toward healing my very broken heart. Thank you for letting me share. Sincerely, Tracy

Edited February 14, 2014 by luv2cruise523

[trabeler]

Andy -

 

Thanks for posting the latest info! Concerning general sprucing up... can you comment on the state of the chairs in the Crystal Room? These were downright horrible when we were onboard over Christmas... many frayed edges and very very worn. Several officers told us that at least those chairs would be redone in drydock. If they didn't, I would doubt they'd make it another year without falling apart!

 

We were on the Mercury a couple of months before it left the fleet and the soft goods were in much better shape than Century. It is sad to think that Celebrity couldn't even do some minor touches... little things, sometimes, can make a huge difference in perception.

 

Also... it was mentioned that Michael's is now a VIP lounge. Are they doing any entertainment in there at all? Did Jordan Peterson get moved out?

 

Thanks again for posting and enjoy your cruise! We'll be getting on the 23rd when you disembark...

[Host Jazzbeau]

Is that Michael's change an early implementation of the Suite policy?

[riclop]

Looking foward to it .

[thebigpuba]

Please advise of internet or WiFi onboard thanks

[Cruise Raider]

Hi Andy....glad to see you are making the most of your trip. We'll be sailing on the Century in a few weeks and have an aft cabin on deck 9. I was rather curious about any noticeable vibration towards the aft on this boat on this deck. We sailed all the way aft on the Mercury before and when they pulled into port, it just popped you right out of bed. Do you think it would be worth it to pay a bit extra to move a little towards midship?

Also, have you heard anything good or bad about Murano since you've been onboard? I am trying to plan something special for my DHs birthday and thought that might be a nice option. thanks so much and enjoy the rest of your cruise!! :)

[Andy]

Andy -

 

Thanks for posting the latest info! Concerning general sprucing up... can you comment on the state of the chairs in the Crystal Room? These were downright horrible when we were onboard over Christmas... many frayed edges and very very worn. Several officers told us that at least those chairs would be redone in drydock. If they didn't, I would doubt they'd make it another year without falling apart!

 

We were on the Mercury a couple of months before it left the fleet and the soft goods were in much better shape than Century. It is sad to think that Celebrity couldn't even do some minor touches... little things, sometimes, can make a huge difference in perception.

 

Also... it was mentioned that Michael's is now a VIP lounge. Are they doing any entertainment in there at all? Did Jordan Peterson get moved out?

 

Thanks again for posting and enjoy your cruise! We'll be getting on the 23rd when you disembark...

 

Hi Trabeler,

 

I have not visited the Crystal room yet, but will try to check for you. Regarding Michael's Club. I'm certain it's a Zenith Lounge for the morning and afternoon hours. As for the evening ? I'm not entirely certain if it's a Zenith lounge or not, but will look into this tomorrow. I passed by Michael's tonight, and it was nearly empty. According to the Celebrity Daily - Jordan Peterson is performing at the Cova Cafe.

 

Hope this is helpful.

[Andy]

Hi Andy....glad to see you are making the most of your trip. We'll be sailing on the Century in a few weeks and have an aft cabin on deck 9. I was rather curious about any noticeable vibration towards the aft on this boat on this deck. We sailed all the way aft on the Mercury before and when they pulled into port, it just popped you right out of bed. Do you think it would be worth it to pay a bit extra to move a little towards midship?

Also, have you heard anything good or bad about Murano since you've been onboard? I am trying to plan something special for my DHs birthday and thought that might be a nice option. thanks so much and enjoy the rest of your cruise!! :)

 

Hi Cruise Raider,

 

I'm not feeling any aft vibration, but it's important to note that our cabin is fairly mid-ship. The only place I've felt anything at all, is in the MDR, and only when the ship is sailing at top speed. At this point, I'd probably advise not to worry about it - but I will ask around. If I notice anything concerning, I will be sure to report on this thread, so please stay tuned !

 

I have not heard any comments on Murano, but the venue seems quiet. We may dine there on the 2nd leg of our B2B. I will advise, in a few days. Wishing you a wonderful cruise !

[Andy]

Please advise of internet or WiFi onboard thanks

 

Hi thebigpuba,

 

I'm using WiFi, but they offer 2 speeds : Slooooooowwwww and Sloooooooooowwwwwwwer. It's taking me 1-3 minutes to load each page. Hope it improves, but that's probably wishful thinking.

[GrandBistro]

Andy, thanks for the posts. We were on the Century just before the dry dock, the Jan 20-Feb 4 Panama Canal transit. At the Oceans Ahead lecture, I asked the captain about the ship being sold, and he danced around his response. He also said the dry dock would focus on mechanical repairs/upgrades/cleaning, and deep cleaning in food and hotel services. Cosmetic repairs badly needed!

Sounds like Michael's may do better as an elite lounge. I never saw one person in it over our 15 day cruise!

 

 

Sent using the Cruise Critic forums app

[Cruise Raider]

Hi Cruise Raider,

 

I'm not feeling any aft vibration, but it's important to note that our cabin is fairly mid-ship. The only place I've felt anything at all, is in the MDR, and only when the ship is sailing at top speed. At this point, I'd probably advise not to worry about it - but I will ask around. If I notice anything concerning, I will be sure to report on this thread, so please stay tuned !

 

I have not heard any comments on Murano, but the venue seems quiet. We may dine there on the 2nd leg of our B2B. I will advise, in a few days. Wishing you a wonderful cruise !

 

You are fabulous ... thanks so much for keeping me posted. Again....enjoy your cruise and happy valentine's day to you and your entire family!

[cle-guy]

Host Andy,

It's almost insulting that they didn't think we were worth it.

 

 

From a business perspective I can easily understand why there Wouldn't make a multi-her investment in a ship that is leaving their fleet in a year's time.

 

As a shareholder I'd be slightly offended if they were to wast that kind of money.

[mafig]

From a business perspective I can easily understand why there Wouldn't make a multi-her investment in a ship that is leaving their fleet in a year's time.

 

As a shareholder I'd be slightly offended if they were to wast that kind of money.

 

 

I was not expecting a multi-million dollar investment and certainly not in a week's drydock. But it sounds like they did nothing to spruce her up. No replacing of the carpeting, no soft goods replacement, no repair of chairs that are falling apart. How many people will sail her in a year's time and see a shabby ship. How many will have this be their first time on Celebrity and think all their ships are like this? If I was selling my house next year and I was having company coming and my guestroom had ratty sheets, I think I would spring for a new set.