Thoughts of a First Time X Cruiser - Connie

[CPT Trips]

Just back from the Constellation Repo . . . all in all a very good trip.

Connie is, contrary to some reports, looked in good shape. Yes, it has rust spots that are repaired and painted and some furnishings are a bit worn, but heck it's a ship at sea with thousands moving through it.

Crew, overall, were fantastic! Unfortunately, we had waiters, at two tables in the MDR that left a bit to be desired, missed courses at almost every meal. The first was just plain unfriendly although the second was pleasent and the second assisitant was quite good with having the "extras" ready. That was a real contrast with the rest of our experiences with crew, particularly our cabin attendents who were just superb. The bar waiters provided good service without being too present or pushing drinks.

I had high expectations for the food going in. All too often they were not met. Many dinner entrees just did not match up to other mass market lines we cruised on. Big things - lamb chops tough, pasta dried out, beef dishes (non steak) tough, sauces congealed and vegetarian foods did not have complete protein. (And we were told by our waiter there is no longer a special vegetarian menu. Little things - you can't make a decent tea without very hot water, the mozzarella with the caprese salad was the funkiest cheese I ever saw (downright unappetizing) and the tomatoes were awful too, some of the main courses were the most unusual version of (pick a name) that I have ever been served and sometimes not fresh salads (even moldy, greens should not have black spots). It seemed like at every meal, some one at our table for 8 was sending something back. All in all the "new" menu gets a thumbs down.

The buffet was another story, a good one overall. Hot water for tea! Food that both looked like what it was labelled and could be "inspected" prior to serving. Sushi in the early evening was a nice treat. The waffle, french toast, pancake station was good. Minor gripe - X should rearrange the layout so folks not wanting fresh cooked waffles don't have to either wait in line or "jump" the line. Management should also consider a "map" of the layout of the sections to make life a little easier.

Entertainment was very enjoyable . . . a variety of music at various times of the evening. And all talented even if not to my taste. We did experience some issues with getting through the meal in time for late shows are activities in "Bar at the End of the Earth."

Embarkation and disembarkation were handled well and painlessly (except for having to leave).

We met a lot of really great people among our fellow passengers - CCers and nonCCers. But what is it with some folks? Saving loungers while ashore? Taking cushions off the wooden deck chairs on the Promanade Deck to put on a "soft" lounger. No need to get indignant when asked to share.

...all in all a very good trip, a comment I have have made about every one of the cruises I have been on. Will I go back? Probably. Was I "Wowed" to the point I will make Celebrity my only cruise line in the futere? No.