Celebrity Solstice Maiden Voyage Review

[DesignGuy]

Review of Celebrity Solstice Inaugural Sailing

 

My brief biography: I am a 39 year old professional interior designer and licensed general contractor. This is my 31st sailing. Previous cruise lines sailed include: Carnival, Holland America, Princess, Cunard (Queen Mary 2), Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. I have also visited the Queen Mary (1) docked in Long Beach. I am very interested in classic liners and modern cruise lines. Having worked in the service industry for most of my life and knowing how difficult it is try please the general public I try to take a positive approach and give the benefit of doubt to anyone in the service industry. With all that I've learned in life my motto is: “If you know the difference.....you can make a difference!”

 

For the sake of ease I will give a rating in each category based on 5 stars.

 

Embarkation: 5

One of the smoothest I've ever encountered. There were 60 stations waiting to greet and check people in. Wow! What a great addition! The rampway to the ship was steep. I'm sure it had to do with location of the deck in comparison to the 2nd floor of the terminal. There was help available if anyone needed it.

 

Solstice: 5

At first glance everything about Solstice is absolutely beautiful. At second glance it's confirmed. The interior design of this ship is magnificent. I enjoy the creativity of the new designs combined with the traditional elegance. It makes for a very new and modern feel while keeping the comfort of the and spirit of past.

 

Staterooms: 4.75

One of the first thing that I noticed is that the entry doors are recessed from the hallway. I love this feature. It allows people to pass freely as you are entering or exiting the rooms. It also keeps the hallways less cluttered.

 

In the stateroom the the wall as you walk in is not straight. They have alternated the layouts of the rooms. The bed in our room was nearest to the bathroom while the bed in the next room was nearest the balcony. With that the common wall between the rooms had a staggered design. The wall bumps out where you walk around the foot of the bed in each room.

 

Warning! The beds and bedding are extremely comfortable. It made it difficult for me to want to get up in the morning. The beds are also raised a couple more inches to easily accommodate luggage.

 

The sofa in the room is a cream colored leather. It is probably the most comfortable stateroom sofa that I've ever sat on. I laid on it and could have slept easily if I wanted to.

 

The drapes are very nice. They've done away with the upholstery drapes and gone to a sheer over block-out liner. It is a very nice updated touch.

 

The lighting is wonderful. I love the new ability to dim the lighting in the stateroom. The bathroom light now goes to a dim state instead of turning it off. It takes away that harsh shock of light in the middle of the night and makes for an excellent night light.

 

The new large flat-panel tv's are great. They are attached to the wall and pivot for perfect viewing. The picture quality and interactivity is phenomenal. They've added mp3 music to the music channel with endless selections and genres. Rumor has it that Celebrity contracted with Apple, Inc. to create the system. Whomever did it I applaud.

 

The closets are very different that see on any other ship. They are not located next to the entry door which is very nice. They are on the common wall with the bathroom. The closet is much smaller with very limited shelf space. There is adequate hanging space for clothes and a very large safe (will hold a laptop). The doors are also very odd. They are sliders with both handles on the same side of both doors. It take a bit of getting used to as most people are used to the handles on the outsides of the doors. Extra clothes storage is above the bed and in drawers in the the tv cabinet. The storage above the bed could be a bit difficult for some vertically challenged people to reach without standing on the bed. Overall, the storage quantity is comparable to other ship staterooms but tends to be smaller spaces and more “nooks and crannies.”

 

The bathrooms are probably some of the best designed. The shower is a very large curved “capsule” design. It is very easy to enter and exit with sliding curved doors. The days of the “attacking shower curtain” are gone! The shower head does not have a hose but is on a flexible neck that can allow it to spray almost anywhere. I'm sure that this will be much less of a maintenance issue for them. I found it also to be very convenient. They've also added a bar for the ladies to put their foot on for shaving. The vanity cabinets and basins are very beautiful. The cabinet now has a plate glass door for a very modern feel. I like the new design of the bowl on the top of the vanity. It also has a large European faucet. It will be more of a cleaning issue for the attendant but, nonetheless, is very nice. I know that other posting reviews have complained that the faucet makes it difficult for shaving but I didn't find it a problem. In the past many people complained that the faucet was too short....now it's too long. I found it much better. The tile border in the bathroom is stunning. It consists of a ½ inch glass and tumbled marble mosaic. Overall the feeling of the bath is wonderful. I am glad to see the “plastic” bathroom feel become a thing of the past.

 

Our group organized a “cabin crawl” which was very beneficial for seeing the different types of cabins. For the most part the cabins were pretty much the same with the exception of the inside cabin with, of course, no window or balcony. They are, however, beautiful and spacious. The suites are beautiful, elegant and well laid out. They have a large walk-in closet, separate bedroom and large balcony.

 

Main Dining: 5

Some have already disagreed with the food quality but I give it rave reviews. Based on several other cruises that I've been on this experience was fantastic. The quality was great, flavor excellent and presentation superb. Food is always subjective. I loved just about everything presented. Others hated everything. I can't think of anything that was so bad that it was memorable. Of course, there were a few things that I didn't care for but I wouldn't give the food service any negative marks.

 

Specialty Dining: 5

Murano-I will compare to the “M” class dining in “Ocean Liner's, S.S. United States, etc. so go with an open mind. If it were the same as the “M” class experience then what would be the point? The elegance is there but a bit more relaxed and less stoic. The service, quality, atmosphere....everything, was fantastic. At first you will notice that the dining area is much smaller, probably to accommodate the other 3 specialty restaurants and venues. I found it to be a much better use of space. The food quality was top notch and cooked to perfection. The service was above and beyond as expected. The only real thing that I noticed to be missing was the cheese course which is probably only presented now with the “full chef's recommendation & wine pairing” option. For me it wasn't a big loss.

Unfortunately, we did encounter one of the most embarrassing and appalling spectacles. A woman who thought that she was the “Queen” (also indicated by the tiara that she was wearing) was probably the rudest person that I've seen in years. She complained about everything including. We and all other tables in the dining room could hear her rant and rave about not feeling “special.” Get over it!!!! I won't get into it. If you want the details you can read Host Joe's review of the ship. He was dining at the same time and had much the same experience and opinion. I certainly appreciate the other diner's applause as the woman left the dining room. I sincerely hope that her spectacle does not create problems for the staff and their future careers.

 

Buffet: 5

The food quality and presentation was everything I've come to love about Celebrity and more. The have done away with the trays for large plates. For those who complained about the lack of trays they haven't thought about a few things. First, there were plenty of staff ready and waiting to help carry anything to your table. Secondly, I can imagine that this drastically cuts down on food waste and overindulgence. It is easy with a tray to get excited about too many food selections. With what you can safely put on one plate it helps you think twice. It is not a problem whatsoever to go back for more if needed. The silverware and napkins are already on the tables when you sit. I liked the new stations in the buffet area. It is more closely related to Royal Caribbean's Radiance class. I did always find it a bit of a haul on X's Millenium class to 2 very long buffet areas separated by long walks.

 

Entertainment: 5

The one show that I did see was tremendous. It was a Cirque do Soleil type show. The Solstice Theater is equipped with rigging for these special shows. The performers did a great job for such an intricate show on a moving ship.

 

Pools/Pool Decks/Loungers: 4

There were more than enough loungers around the pool. The lounger all had padded tops making them more than comfortable. Additionally, there were plenty of loungers for everyone. On a full ship even the chair hogs may have a hard time keeping up with all the extras.

 

Smoking Policy: 3

I really appreciate that Celebrity has instituted a new non-smoking policy. Because of the zero tolerance policy for smoking in the any cabin or on any balcony for the first time that I can remember I was able to enjoy my balcony without chocking on smoke. The daily paper states that there is a $250 fine if you are caught smoking in forbidden areas. I read another review that stated that someone did receive a fine on this cruise.

Celebrity still allows smoking in a designated areas including a section of the casino near the shops. Unfortunately, the smoke does permeate into other areas.

Another problem area is the Mast Grille on the port side and Mast Bar on the starboard side of the upper pool deck. I can understand smoking at the Mast Grille being that smoking is allowed on the port side, however, allowing smoking at the Mast Bar on the starboard side makes absolutely no sense. The smoke, as you can imagine blows directly down the starboard side of the upper deck into the non-smoking area. I hope that they change this immediately.

Another problem area is the Sky Bar. While there is smoking allowed in only on the port side it still fills the room with smoke.

 

Lawn Club: 3

I appreciate the efforts that Celebrity designers are making to try something new. The lawn certainly reflects that attempt. While I think that it is a very unique concept I do have some reservations as to how long it will last. Maybe the lawn needs time to stabilize but for now I can see problems. The area near the Hot Glass Show seems to be taking a beating already. Because of the popularity of the show there are people standing on the lawn in that area. Having seen many festivals in my home town I know that the grass take a lot of punishment with constant amounts of people on it. I did notice some people playing Bocce Ball on the side lawns which looked fun. Unfortunately, the large section of the lawn doesn't seem to have much intended use yet. You can put chairs or towels on it for lounging and when I did walk on it the lawn seemed rather over saturated. As with other reviews there were several chained-off areas with “Lawn Is Resting” signs. It seems like a lot of work for little reward at this point. My guess is that the lawn will eventually be replaced with an artificial turf.

 

Hot Glass Show: 5

This is a very cool concept. You get an entertaining and educational experience all in one. The professionals from the Corning Glass Company are very talented. Sadly, they are not allowed to sell the glass products but they do have a drawing for one piece at the end of the show.

 

Overall: 5

The overall design and appearance of the ship is great. I can't imagine anyone not liking their experience on it.

 

Kudos to Celebrity!!

[hylasgirl]

Thanks DesignGuy!!! Well said! I can't wait until it's my turn! :)

[nps001]

Thanks for taking the time to write. The lady making a fool of herself has been mentioned several times. I sincerely hope she doesn't write a complaint and get the employees in trouble.

 

P.S. Someone said that they ran into her after dinner and made a comment to her. Kudos!

[meow!]

DesignGuy: Thank you kindly for such a comprehensive description of the new ship. Did you find the ship too large (with too many people)? We had been on the Mercury and the Century before, and we found those (under 2,000 passengers) easier to avoid crowds, especially by skipping the main dining room with assigned seating and eating at the buffet (same restaurant for breakfast/lunch) for dinners as well !

 

P.S. In case you might be interested in the description and tape measurement of a deck 10 "sky suite" on the Century for comparison, please read

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=785601&highlight=meow posting #2

[DesignGuy]

DesignGuy: Thank you kindly for such a comprehensive description of the new ship. Did you find the ship too large (with too many people)? We had been on the Mercury and the Century before, and we found those (under 2,000 passengers) easier to avoid crowds, especially by skipping the main dining room with assigned seating and eating at the buffet (same restaurant for breakfast/lunch) for dinners as well !

 

P.S. In case you might be interested in the description and tape measurement of a deck 10 "sky suite" on the Century for comparison, please read

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=785601&highlight=meow posting #2

 

I did not find the ship too large. In fact, I found it rather easy to navigate. Solstice is a larger ship but not overly packed with people. I never felt like I was tripping over crowds, however, the ship was not booked to full capacity as I understand. I can't really say that on any Celebrity ship that I've felt crowded.

 

Cheers!

[signman]

DG, thanks for the great write up. I leave Sunday.

 

Was the layout of the INSIDE cabin you saw on your crawl the same as the balcony cabins? Thanks.

[tbmrt]

We're leaving 12/14 and can't wait!

[cvat]

Buffet: 5

The food quality and presentation was everything I've come to love about Celebrity and more. The have done away with the trays for large plates. For those who complained about the lack of trays they haven't thought about a few things. First, there were plenty of staff ready and waiting to help carry anything to your table. Secondly, I can imagine that this drastically cuts down on food waste and overindulgence. It is easy with a tray to get excited about too many food selections. With what you can safely put on one plate it helps you think twice. It is not a problem whatsoever to go back for more if needed. The silverware and napkins are already on the tables when you sit. I liked the new stations in the buffet area. It is more closely related to Royal Caribbean's Radiance class. I did always find it a bit of a haul on X's Millenium class to 2 very long buffet areas separated by long walks.

 

If they were searching for further sources of income they should sell this overindulgence diet type!

No trays means less food – but the size of the dishes are the same if not bigger!

That is an interesting and new to me logic!

If some passengers are going to take some trays are they going to be confiscated, right after liqueur?!

The other ships had a whole another construction!

[Despegue]

Great to see the demise of the tray!

Celebrity Solstice is a cruiseship and not a High School cafetaria!!

[cvat]

Great to see the demise of the tray!

Celebrity Solstice is a cruiseship and not a High School cafetaria!!

Cruiser who were not at their High School age,and not even close to High School age seemd to have enjoyed them much!

 

Their whole fleet is not a High School - but they had them too!

[ssCRUISERS]

Great to see the demise of the tray!

Celebrity Solstice is a cruiseship and not a High School cafetaria!!

 

 

Thank you for writing this review, very well done!

 

I also thank Celebrity for making the buffet classier by taking away the cafeteria feel you get with trays. Really goes along with what draws me to this line.

[BurgerBits]

DesignGuy -

 

Thank you so much for your thoughtful, concise, and informative review. My brother (an artist and architectural designer who also lives in MI!!) will be so happy to read another designers' perspective before our 2/22 sailing.

 

Traverse City is lovely; we used to have a family place in Gaylord. Hope you and yours enjoy a wonderful Holiday season - you've certainly given US a nice gift!!

[ellbon]

I loved this upbeat review. As far as trays go-I never have used one. Princess never had them and i would ont use one anyways. it is very easy to go back for seconds instead of wasting food.

 

I am much more concern over closet space for 14 days than i am over a tray. Or not being able to use the pools due to being cold.

[meow!]

In this day and age of high blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol, many (though not all) people don't want to eat too much anyway!

[tipster42]

Thanks for an excellent review. Having tried other lines, I am happy to be returning to Celebrity. I have always found their food, service and general ambiance to be a cut above the other mainstream cruise lines. I'm happy to see that Solstice continues that tradition

[MacThespian]

Thanks for an excellent, well-reasoned (and well-explained) review. I appreciate all the detail.

[Nan1052]

Loved your review. Were you on a 7-night sailing or the two-night charter?

 

We sailed the two-night pre-inaugural on 11/10, and I agree with you on your comments. The ship is beautiful. So much thought went into it. We played Bocci and croquet and it was fun. Something different to do onboard. We were unable to enjoy a specialty dining room, but I loved the atmosphere in the Tuscan Grille. They were offering samples of the onion soup and it was delicious!

 

This is a great addition to the Celebrity Fleet!

Nancy

[laurebon]

Design Guy, You wrote a lovely review, I wish I had eaten in the same dining room and had the same cabin as you. My dining room experience was not as good as yours, in fact, were we on the same ship??? We have been on five X cruises, and never have we had dining room food such as this. Our waitress was wonderful, and so very apologetic. She could not tell us what was on the menu for the rest of the cruise as "We have only done two cruises and do not know" We asked time and again when is the Prime Rib night. Tomorrow, tomorrow but tomorrow never came. Finally the last night the maitre d said we were having Prime Rib and he had written a note to make sure some was saved for our table. However, after getting our hopes up they were dashed. NO PRIME RIB! One of the gentlemen at the table was very upset. The lobster turned out to be so small we have Craw fish bigger than that here in Ms. There were also two scallops and two shrimp on the plate. My husband got one shrimp. As to the menu, what was going on with that? Quit trying to be something you are not, Celebrity, you are not a French Company that is not a French Restaurant so get the French off the menu.

 

The cabin, CC-1 #2145 Where do I start with this? The bathroom was nice and enough room for us but our friends had a very hard time with the space and went to guest relations about moving to a larger space. Guest relations blew them off and to this day is "looking into it" The closet is in such a position that you must get between a large cream colored sofa with an arm rest and the closet itself to see what was in it. Would love to see that cream sofa when a few children have at it. Half the closet was taken up by a safe and shelves so only shirts and jackets could be hung in that space. The other half was for dresses and slacks. I had a heck of a time trying so see in or get my clothes out. The bed was comfortable and the drapes lovely. The balcony adequate and no more. We had the overhang from the deck above but that was OK.

 

:oI have apologised to our friends for taking them on this cruise. The two above problems have resulted in our friends canceling their Transatlantic cruise on the Solstice in Nov. 2009. They will never try X again. The dining room food is the same on all ships, as I understand it. As a result of this, I have cancelled our 13 day cruise on the Constellation in Nov. 2009. Until Celebrity gets the food problem under control I will look elsewhere for my cruises.

 

In closing, The service as good as ever, the ship is a WOW. If it were not for those two problems.:eek:

[hcat]

Wow! That was a diffrent experience from that of the orig poster

 

. I thank both of you & Op for a concise & helpful review & hope we get the good side of the ship! Can't wait--we are counting down to January 25th

[signman]

 

The cabin, CC-1 #2145 Where do I start with this? The bathroom was nice and enough room for us but our friends had a very hard time with the space and went to guest relations about moving to a larger space. Guest relations blew them off and to this day is "looking into it" The closet is in such a position that you must get between a large cream colored sofa with an arm rest and the closet itself to see what was in it. Would love to see that cream sofa when a few children have at it. Half the closet was taken up by a safe and shelves so only shirts and jackets could be hung in that space. The other half was for dresses and slacks. I had a heck of a time trying so see in or get my clothes out. The bed was comfortable and the drapes lovely. The balcony adequate and no more. We had the overhang from the deck above but that was OK.

 

:oI have apologised to our friends for taking them on this cruise. The two above problems have resulted in our friends canceling their Transatlantic cruise on the Solstice in Nov. 2009. They will never try X again. The dining room food is the same on all ships, as I understand it. As a result of this, I have cancelled our 13 day cruise on the Constellation in Nov. 2009. Until Celebrity gets the food problem under control I will look elsewhere for my cruises.

 

In closing, The service as good as ever, the ship is a WOW. If it were not for those two problems.:eek:

 

Your friends had a hard time with the bathroom space HOW?? Everyone says the bathroom is big, was their's different? What cabin were they in? And where did they expect to be moved?

[renroc13]

The ship was absolutely wonderful and the bathroom also very well done; however, if someone is larger than average size the toilet is stuffed in between the beautiful cabinetry and shower door. This is a problem for many people and something the senior staff is aware of on the ship.

 

Our food and service was wonderful and a step up from where Celebrity had been the past 5 years or so. We were told by several administrative staff that they were not happy with the last contracted food people and that Celebrity had not been buying quality foods which showed the past few years. We again were told they hoped to upgrade the food on the M Class ships as well which would be nice since we have seen a decline in the product the last 5 years and we used to sail Celebrity exclusively until 2 years ago.

 

The only other negative for us on the ship (and we had a great time) was that the Solarium Pool was not heated and not adult only as on the M Class ships.

 

Good review.

 

Sue

[cvat]

Reading an article here i had to find out that the MD is refering actually to a region in France where the most champaigne is from.

It was in one article that was published for the Maiden voiage of Solstice, i didn´t read it elsewhere, but all the information is probably corrrect.

[laurebon]

Your friends had a hard time with the bathroom space HOW?? Everyone says the bathroom is big, was their's different? What cabin were they in? And where did they expect to be moved?

Friends were in 2102, would have paid for a suite, or a handicapped room. The toilet area has toilet backed by a wall, one side is cabinet with toilet paper, etc and the other side has the shower. One is surrounded with non movable objects. Yes, the overall bathroom is a good size, total space is not the problem, it is where the toilet it situated for them it was a problem.

[signman]

I'm a big guy. Guessing you're friends are larger too. Hope I fit.

[renroc13]

That was my only frustration in the bathroom...much tighter for me than M class. I managed and used the public rooms if needed. At least I know for the future what to expect. Still loved the ship...

Sue