Celebrity vs RCCL and HAL

[margsipie]

We have typically cruised on HAL before with a trip on RCCL as well. We're considering Celebrity based on itineraries and because we're looking for a change.

 

What are the differences, improvements, general vibe? We're looking at an Adriatic summer cruise.

[kathynorth]

There's a lot to consider when comparing cruise lines. Are you asking for input on itineraries, ship ambiance, staff engagement, food, passengers, ...? There's so many factors. We've been on quite a few X ships, a couple on RC but on same ship, and 1 time on HAL. We had great times on all. What I've learned is that the feel of the ship can change based on the itinerary and time of year. We sailed on the Reflection in the Caribbean and Mediterranean and they were very different experiences. Since you're interested in an Adriatic cruise you may want to ask people who cruised similar itineraries on different cruiselines for their opinions about selected items.

 

IMO, which is based on limited experiences and what I've read on the boards, HAL seems to have an older passenger base no matter itinerary, then comes X, then RC with an active advertising campaign focused on attracting families. Ship décor: HAL ships tend to be dark and more traditional (which I happen to like), X polished chrome and contemporary, RC more mainstream/hotel like. Food: good on all, but becomes somewhat predictable on long cruises. Activities: not sure this matters much on an Adriatic cruise since there are lots of port stops, but all have traditional cruise activities such as bingo, towel folding, art of food, wine tasting, pool side fun. RC has more on-ship physical activities such as rock climbing, slides, mini-golf.

 

For us the deciding factors are usually itinerary, start/end points when overseas for pre/post stays, length of time in ports, and overall cost including airfare. Have fun researching, there's really no wrong choice with the cruiselines you're considering.

Edited March 1, 2014 by kathynorth

[fleckle]

We have typically cruised on HAL before with a trip on RCCL as well. We're considering Celebrity based on itineraries and because we're looking for a change.

 

What are the differences, improvements, general vibe? We're looking at an Adriatic summer cruise.

Here is a link to another recent thread here comparing Celebrity with HAL that you may find of interest

 

Change - From HAL to Celebrity

 

[miched]

We sailed on Carnival the most, Princess, Hal, RCCL, and Celebrity.

 

We enjoyed every cruise line for what it is and never experienced a bad cruise. For us to say that one is better than the other would be very difficult considering all of the different factors but since we started cruising on Celebrity it has become our first choice.

 

Celebrity offers us what we really enjoy. The 123 promo is very hard to beat plus their Captain Club perks, the atmosphere and for us what sets them over the top is the smoking policy. The ship is basically non smoking.

 

We are Platinum on Carnival and Princess but even at that we prefer Celebrity.

 

You will find that all lines are more similar than different but besides what I have already mentioned the officers on Celebrity are really friendly, involved in functions and activities and always present in the public areas. They really add class to the ship seeing them comstantly around in their uniforms. It is almost like the officers on "The Love Boat" that are always involved making sure that everyone is having a great time.

 

The only way to find put is to give Celebrity a try and decide for yourself.

 

🌊🚢🇺🇸🌅🍸🍻

[cruisetrail]

We have typically cruised on HAL before with a trip on RCCL as well. We're considering Celebrity based on itineraries and because we're looking for a change.

 

What are the differences, improvements, general vibe? We're looking at an Adriatic summer cruise.

 

Improvements on Celebrity (S-Class) over HAL (Signature class) is more spacious (but lacking character = generic hotel feel) public rooms and more specialty dining options.

HAL is well above in comfort, amenities, open deck space, classy traditions and food included in the price.

Entertainment is on par with a special note for a unique Glass show on Celebrity (except the Silhouette and the Reflection).

 

Royal Caribbean (Oasis class and Freedom class) is below Celebrity as far as specialty dining and buffet are concerned.

RCI beats Celebrity in other aspects including overall design and especially entertainment programs which are #1 at sea on the RCI Quintet.

 

HAL is way above RCI in all aspects except entertainment programs and sports facilities.

 

A change is a good thing. It's interesting to try something new.

Avoid the Silhouette and especially the Reflection.

The best option to try Celebrity is the Eclipse, the second one is the Equinox.

[wallie5446]

You will never return to HAL. Celebrity is RCCL upgraded. We were on Reflection last Nov. She has taken over the top spot on our favorite ship list after 25 years of sailing.

Edited March 2, 2014 by wallie5446

[Purplsmurf]

Improvements on Celebrity (S-Class) over HAL (Signature class) is more spacious (but lacking character = generic hotel feel) public rooms and more specialty dining options.

HAL is well above in comfort, amenities, open deck space, classy traditions and food included in the price.

Entertainment is on par with a special note for a unique Glass show on Celebrity (except the Silhouette and the Reflection).

 

Royal Caribbean (Oasis class and Freedom class) is below Celebrity as far as specialty dining and buffet are concerned.

RCI beats Celebrity in other aspects including overall design and especially entertainment programs which are #1 at sea on the RCI Quintet.

 

HAL is way above RCI in all aspects except entertainment programs and sports facilities.

 

A change is a good thing. It's interesting to try something new.

Avoid the Silhouette and especially the Reflection.

The best option to try Celebrity is the Eclipse, the second one is the Equinox.

 

 

Avoid the Silhouette??? Why??? It was recently rated one of the top ships. I have heard nothing but good things. We are scheduled to sail on the Silhouette next month. Interested to know why you say to avoid it!!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

[ariawoman]

I'm interested in why someone should avoid the Silhouette too....I dont see why, S class is S class....

 

As for the OP. I've been on HAL Signature Class, X S class and M class, and RCCL Oasis class. Every cruise had it's great points and not as great points - however for me - it's still vacation, I'm still on a ship, so all is pretty much well. :-)

 

I think you'll enjoy Celebrity. You'll get a mixed bag in terms of ages, it will likely trend more mature than not due to the itinerary. Personally, I've always been on the younger side of the ages on each cruise i've been on except the Oasis, so it doesn't bother me at all. My preferred line so far has been Celebrity - S class ships over M class ships. I tend to do port intensive cruises, but I do also attend the ship shows almost nightly and also enjoy a little bit of casino time (a recent development in 2013 lol). The PYP/123 program really makes giving the line a shot a no brainer for me, as the potential cost savings there alone is decent if you drink even just a little bit.

 

Enjoy!

[cruisetrail]

Avoid the Silhouette??? Why??? It was recently rated one of the top ships. I have heard nothing but good things. We are scheduled to sail on the Silhouette next month. Interested to know why you say to avoid it!!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

 

"Avoid" - if one has other options to try Celebrity product.

#1 is the Eclipse

#2 is the Equinox

#3 is the Solstice

The Silhouette is a commercialized version of the original Solstice class.

The key features went overboard (open grass lawn, Hot Glass show).

A fountain on the pool deck is eliminated as well. Some more passenger cabins added.

We don't cruise on ratings. :)

Edited March 2, 2014 by cruisetrail

[wallie5446]

Avoid the Silhouette??? Why??? It was recently rated one of the top ships. I have heard nothing but good things. We are scheduled to sail on the Silhouette next month. Interested to know why you say to avoid it!!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

 

The Silhouette is a commercialized version of the original Solstice class.

The key features went overboard (open grass lawn, Hot Glass show).

A fountain on the pool deck is eliminated as well. Some more passenger cabins added.

We don't cruise on ratings. :)

Don't sail because there is no longer a fountain or a glass show? Really? Not a single of the other 'recommended' ships, on the other cruise lines have them either. If we want to look at fountains we go to Kansas City. And glass blowing we go to the Arts District in downtown Dallas, not on a ship in the ocean.

[tiki21]

Improvements on Celebrity (S-Class) over HAL (Signature class) is more spacious (but lacking character = generic hotel feel) public rooms and more specialty dining options.

HAL is well above in comfort, amenities, open deck space, classy traditions and food included in the price.

Entertainment is on par with a special note for a unique Glass show on Celebrity (except the Silhouette and the Reflection).

 

Royal Caribbean (Oasis class and Freedom class) is below Celebrity as far as specialty dining and buffet are concerned.

RCI beats Celebrity in other aspects including overall design and especially entertainment programs which are #1 at sea on the RCI Quintet.

 

HAL is way above RCI in all aspects except entertainment programs and sports facilities.

 

A change is a good thing. It's interesting to try something new.

Avoid the Silhouette and especially the Reflection.

The best option to try Celebrity is the Eclipse, the second one is the Equinox.

 

Was on the Reflection in 2013 and the Silhouette a couple weeks ago. Everyone is welcome to their opinion but I could not disagree with you more. We loved both ships and booked another trip on the Reflection for 2015.

[Purplsmurf]

Good to know!! I was curious as to why someone would say that, but I respect that each person has their own opinion! I am confident that we will have an AWESOME time on the Silhouette!!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

[wallie5446]

Good to know!! I was curious as to why someone would say that, but I respect that each person has their own opinion! I am confident that we will have an AWESOME time on the Silhouette!!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

 

We have friends just back from the Silhouette, and said it was an outstanding and wonderful week.

[Lois R]

I sailed Sihlouette last year and had an absolutley wonderful cruise:)

So, in my opinion, do NOT avoid it.

 

You know there is a saying about opinions.....they are like....pick a

body part....noses, we all have them.:rolleyes:.....

 

One person says they do not like Reflection and Sihlouette and another

person says the opposite. WHAT is a cruiser to do?;)...well, you

could just try the ship out for yourself:D

[cruisetrail]

Don't sail because there is no longer a fountain or a glass show? Really? Not a single of the other 'recommended' ships, on the other cruise lines have them either. If we want to look at fountains we go to Kansas City. And glass blowing we go to the Arts District in downtown Dallas, not on a ship in the ocean.

 

You are mixing up different things.

Who cares about fountains? :)

 

Free amenities on the original Celebrity Solstice class ships that used to be advertised as brealthrough in cruising experience have gone overboard on the Silhouette and replaced with $$ cabanas and banality of another $$ eatery.

$$ venues took place of free venues. That's what happened. Commercialization.

 

What the elimination of the fountain means?

 

To understand this - one needs to understand the role of the fountain on the original Solstice ships.

This is on open area of the pool deck that:

1. Extends the "family" area, more space for kids to play with "shower".

2. Relieves cluttered feel of insufficient pool deck space on the Solstice class.

3. Aesthetically - creates more pleasant atmosphere in this area of the ship.

 

On the Silhouette this place is used for additinal loungers (note that the Silhouette carries some more pax).

 

All these facts just demonstrate the transformation of the Solstice class - commecialization.

 

Other recommended ships is a different story.

They have fountains too (BTW!) but it's not important.

They have far better set of amenities.

 

Although Celebrity S-class amenities are below comparisons overall, it's fare to mention the two unique features of the original design.

[cruisetrail]

Was on the Reflection in 2013 and the Silhouette a couple weeks ago. Everyone is welcome to their opinion but I could not disagree with you more. We loved both ships and booked another trip on the Reflection for 2015.

 

What I post is all about ships facts, not opinions.

Merely about changes within Celebrity Solstice class. No agreement is necessary. These are ship facts.

 

What we love - is where opinions start.

Many people love the Carnival Ecstasy and have great time there.

Many people do the same about the Reflection, Ocean Princess, Azamara Quest, etc, etc.

 

There are no bad ships because cruising is a pleasure.

Edited March 2, 2014 by cruisetrail

[USVI-4-me]

Thank you Cruisetrail, for another meaningful post.

We like the way you define the differences in ships.

 

Have you posted regarding the smoke on HAL?

HAL smoking policy made us want to go overboard a few

years ago.

 

-Marisa

[Cindy]

Improvements on Celebrity (S-Class) over HAL (Signature class) is more spacious (but lacking character = generic hotel feel) public rooms and more specialty dining options.

HAL is well above in comfort, amenities, open deck space, classy traditions and food included in the price.

Entertainment is on par with a special note for a unique Glass show on Celebrity (except the Silhouette and the Reflection).

 

Royal Caribbean (Oasis class and Freedom class) is below Celebrity as far as specialty dining and buffet are concerned.

RCI beats Celebrity in other aspects including overall design and especially entertainment programs which are #1 at sea on the RCI Quintet.

 

HAL is way above RCI in all aspects except entertainment programs and sports facilities.

 

A change is a good thing. It's interesting to try something new.

Avoid the Silhouette and especially the Reflection.

The best option to try Celebrity is the Eclipse, the second one is the Equinox.

 

 

 

I absolutely disagree with most of what you state as fact. You may think HAL is "above" the others, but that is your opinion, certainly not fact.

[cruisetrail]

Thank you Cruisetrail, for another meaningful post.

We like the way you define the differences in ships.

 

Have you posted regarding the smoke on HAL?

HAL smoking policy made us want to go overboard a few

years ago.

 

-Marisa

 

Background:

I don't smoke and (don't want to post this word) smokers.

My opinion - I would vote for smoke free cruising.

At the same time I don't have any medical conditions that make me oversensitive to smoke.

 

I saw people smoking in designated areas on HAL ships but it did not bother me. For us (none of our family smokes) smoking policy has never been a factor while choosing a ship. It did not affect me even on Costa ship (heavy smoking).

IMO not only smoking policy but also ship design and concept play their role in how we are affected by smoking.

On paper Celebrity smoking policy is better and I would like all cruise lines to follow it. I believe it will happen sooner or later.

 

It's funny but the only smoking issue to remember happened to me on Celebrity ship when I got a cigarette sparkle in my eye. But this is not a fact that prevents me from cruising on Celebrity.

From the other hand, excellent smoking policy is not a factor that makes Celebrity any more desirable (for me).

 

Enjoy your cruises.

Edited March 2, 2014 by cruisetrail

[cruisetrail]

I absolutely disagree with most of what you state as fact. You may think HAL is "above" the others, but that is your opinion, certainly not fact.

 

We can go into facts if you wish.

Not HAL, but the Signature class ships.

Not in every aspect, but excluding entertainment (RCI wins) and sports facilities (above Celebrity but below RCI).

Plain obviuous.

[wallie5446]

The OP has already sailed on HAL and RCCL and knows all about the ships and is looking for a change. So there is no need to comment about how wonderful the ship design is when they are looking for a better on board experience than what they have already experienced.

[TomTN]

Adriatic cruise on Silhouette last May was wonderful.:):)

We would sail on her again any time. I just hope the Equinox is as nice for our TA next fall.

 

Nothing to do with the ship or the cruise lines, but the ports will be extremely crowded during the summer months. Especially Venice

Edited March 2, 2014 by TomBeckCruise

[margsipie]

Adriatic cruise on Silhouette last May was wonderful.:):)

We would sail on her again any time. I just hope the Equinox is as nice for our TA next fall.

 

Nothing to do with the ship or the cruise lines, but the ports will be extremely crowded during the summer months. Especially Venice

 

Glad to hear you had a good time on the Silhouette in the Adriatic! We did the Mediterranean (larger hotspots) a few years ago and Venice and Santorini in particular were mobbed!

 

Thanks for all the feedback! We've committed to the Silhouette in June! Excited for a change and to start building points if we enjoy Celebrity.

[kathynorth]

Glad to hear you had a good time on the Silhouette in the Adriatic! We did the Mediterranean (larger hotspots) a few years ago and Venice and Santorini in particular were mobbed!

 

Thanks for all the feedback! We've committed to the Silhouette in June! Excited for a change and to start building points if we enjoy Celebrity.

 

We were on a similar itinerary (different order of ports) on the Solstice 2 yrs ago. We particularly enjoyed Dubrovnik and of course Venice. I'm sure you'll have a great time!

Edited March 2, 2014 by kathynorth

[Cruising89143]

I absolutely disagree with most of what you state as fact. You may think HAL is "above" the others, but that is your opinion, certainly not fact.

 

I also tried HAL once. Not for me. The Oosterdam looked as though it was decorated by Carnival's Joe Farcus. Cheap furnishings. We found the service to be less than that of RCI or Celebrity. MDR food was slightly better than RCI but not as good as X. The Pinnacle Grill was a disappointment and we tried it twice. HAL comes in dead last in ship design when compared to RCI and X. Not even close.

 

There are two pluses for HAL. Lido dining and the bedding was the best we have experienced in all cruises but it's not enough to get me back on HAL.