At Sea At Peace

Ooops, sorry we missed this early question. As noted in the OP, we've sailed 80+ weeks at sea since 2008 (and none 2020-December 2023). We used the Infinite Veranda "more" than all of the balconies on all of the other cruises on all of the ships combined. We're thinking aloud as to why? PROS We used the IV essentially "in lieu of" the sofa and sofa area. Since we favor the bed by the glass towards the ocean, the sofa area is sort of a 'staging area' for our clothes from the day, new clothes, and dressing. When one showered and dressed the other would read the Kindle or the d-News, Sports, Politics (Ugh) in the IV. Felt like more space. If ready early for the night, we'd stick to our plan and sit in the IV and have a glass of champagne and/or pinot noir. When I would go for a daily 1-1.5 hour walk on the track DW sometimes choose to read in the IV. Again, especially on those 'sea days' or 'other factor days' where the Solarium would be packed and 'toweled up' and we weren't going there. Those were "let's tour the ship" days! There was NO ~ ~ smoke (pick a type 😲) from other balconies. ~ noise from other balconies. ~ bugs and such (mostly at ports was the concern).

Jealous, but enjoy. 🛳️ We did. First, we each start with our Free premium coffee, Americano (2) and Cappuccino. They come HOT. We ask for 20 minutes to enjoy our coffee, we talk about the upcoming day (and if anything "up" with 3 sons families, grandkids, in-laws etc. back on land). ☕ ☕ ☕ Second, the Le Grand Bistro location (Le Petit Chef), the view and the aesthetics of the design and ambiance are tops, and it is (on 'most' days) a lot more private than BLU. Third, although limited, we are quite satiated by the collection of fresh and fruits and berries plate (berries in short supply, lots of melon, pineapple, kiwi and mango) for one of us and the meat plate for the cured meats (ham, salamis, prosciutto and mortadella) and the artisan cheeses plate (also served with "much more" grapes, berries, dried fruit and walnuts). A lot of fruit for one of us and protein for the other. 😉 *** We found that the above 3-Plates were more satiating to us than the Ultimate Platter and we had not interest in the salmon. We did split a side bagel daily.*** Fourth, only when we cruise, the Elite Captains Club offers (in addition to the premium coffee for those without a beverage package) Sparkling Wine, Mimosas, Bellinis and Bloody Mary's that we enjoy. Always order a extra shot of vodka after first taste and they would bring us almost a full 'prosecco-type' glass (looks a lot like 2 shots). 🥂 Depended on our evening plans, primarily when we felt we'd likely dine, but also because of changes we make on "sea days" where the Solarium is 'transformed' from the overwhelming passengers looking for inside and under cover (more on windy, wavy, cloudy or rainy days). Early (Long) Eden Bar and Lounge - We'd go for a couple of shows from 3PM on (and leave for early dinner). Early (Short) and Late (Short) Eden Bar and Lounge - Otherwise, generally went at 5 for HH (an experiment we tried, will start a thread on 'NO drink package test') for a prosecco and for me, a glass of Pinot Noir (and one to take to BLU), the to BLU at about 6:45 as those early diners would 'turn over' and likely head to shows. After dinner, we'd stop back at Eden if we wanted to socialize or listen to more entertainment. Yep, we too.

Well, you're right and we tried. We booked on 12/15/2023 (the day after getting off of our first post-pandemic cruise on Silhouette 10N SC). There were no Retreat suites. Made the 'move up' offers to all, including Aqua Sky, at pretty good offers. All failed to materialize. We also tried for B2B pre-cruise on most days until with window closed. We also loved the live music (sometimes, during Elite HH, it only took a couple of bar patrons to over-volume there 1/2 away conversations to sort of take the ambiance away) and setting designed for social interaction with others, or by choice, quite personal spaces. The Eden menu looked good and we heard nothing but accolades from those who reserved (some more than once). As said, we booked, changed from 'tasting' to 'regular' and ultimately canceled. Le Petit Chef was our favorite dinner in December on Silhouette (the show was an aside). The food was the 'best' Again, we tried. 😐 But we'll try to make whatever we get work. We do have a planned segment on Aqua Class and BLU upcoming. Stay tuned. Thank you for the detailed specific inquiries. 🧐

You know, I don't know. Pre-cruise trying to figure out what BLU offered and what we read on CC that you could order of the MDR, heavily inconsistent, then noted a list of 'classics' in postings. So, we 'googled' BLU Day by Day Menus, noted this link, as well as the 'everyday' items. Both actually lined up pretty good. This was our first Edge Class cruise and we haven't cruise Celebrity (prior to 12/4/23 10N on Silhouette) since 2013 so really had to get up to speed on Aqua Class and BLU. Thanks for noting though. 👍

BEST #3 – DINING "STARTERS" (Appetizers and Soups & Salads) 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 As noted, Celebrity is pretty well noted for its dining. We are aware there are opinions of a decline in such, but we've certainly enjoyed MD Select on Silhouette and, on Ascent, some BLU favorites and Le Grand Bistro. BLU - Aqua Class (and Retreat Optionally) - We only went to BLU for dinner, usually early. The venue is beautiful, calm and warm decor and quality tables and chairs. The tables with the 'couch' back side can sometimes require a pillow (or two) behind your back and possibly even one underneath. One favorite we believe on Day 4 was the Clean Cuisine "Chilled Maine Lobster Salad" with 'Spicy Mayo on Soba Noodles. This is one of the starters that I could have had another and called it a night! We both had the Cabernet-Braised Short Ribs (we'll do later on as one of our 'Bests' for Entrees). Our 7-Day Menu closely followed Day 1-7 of the linked 14 BLU menu posted on CC (we hope link works). https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aJJCBmbMLBN1VLuHcttH-rN4PCkXfqB4/edit EVERYDAY OPTIONS In BLU it was well known and utilized to order to these menu items (includes Appetizers and Entrees).

Yep, they are 'quick' with that curtain! I fought my way in to get two table napkin settings and utensils as we were 5 minutes pre-close but didn't pick up on the first pass. ⏳ We also heard nothing but superlatives about Eden.

BEST #3 – DINING "STARTERS" (Appetizers and Soups & Salads) 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 As noted, Celebrity is pretty well noted for its dining. We are aware there are opinions of a decline in such, but we've certainly enjoyed MD Select on Silhouette and, on Ascent, some BLU favorites and Le Grand Bistro. LE GRAND BISTRO (LUNCH) - First, it is the actual location for Le Petit Chef. The venue is beautiful. It is used for Lunch for a $30 fee with a stunning menu. For us, we wish we had found it earlier in the week as we would have "had this lunch and skipped BLU for dinner." The MENU is below the pictures of the Moules-Frites (Mussels Steamed with Garlic, White Wine, Thyme and Braised Tomatoes (with a side of Fries) that I had, and across from the Frisee Lardon Pork Belly salad, followed by the Lobster Bisque with a huge Puff Pastry cap. This combination precluded even ordering of the Plats Du Jour 'daily specials' (and we would have loved Wednesday and Thursday offerings). The Moules-Frites - Mussels and Broth "Over the Top" Across the Table - Frisee Lardon Salad (Crispy Port Belly Chunks, Poached Egg, Pickled Shallots) Lobster Bisque with Puff Pastry Cap (Before, During and After) 😉 Next Cruise - Wednesday and Thursday Full Lunch Menu

Yep, it is certainly awesome and we too wish we were still on board. It was only our 2nd post-pandemic cruise, our first Edge Class and the cruise was special. The demographics of the passengers on Celebrity (did Silhouette in December '23) and on this cruise appear to trend to a good balance of cruise passengers with regard to courtesy, demeanor, respect and consideration (and friendliness). The design of this ship class, especially the significant number of venues and seating arrangements, we believe contributed to social interaction with other couples and groups quite a bit. Met a lot of really decent people, sat together for hours, waved and chatted upon sight around the ship thereafter and welcomed to sit (for lounge social or dining) regularly. We tried for 3-days during the cruise to get on the ship (stay on the ship) for this week also and nothing opened up at all down at the future cruise desk or online.

Yep, and it is a really 'hard' close. It could possibly be because the singers and/or game shows in the Eden lounge, right over the Eden restaurant, start at 2PM. Maybe open earlier to extend the time?

A couple of photos approaching EDEN after you go through the glass and mirror entrance way to the BLU and Eden, some shops, that warm you up to what your heading toward. Just as you go past BLU The first welcome Decor 'from the garden' The entrance The first look EDEN, the restaurant, down the stairs First look, small but attractive, open sunken kitchen (multi-levels)

Nice. We expect to do the same this fall after Hurricane Season as we're 1 mile up the beach from the Port and Celebrity has some great ships at Port Everglades over the late fall and winter into spring.

BREAKFAST - The breakfast is complementary. We did not go there for breakfast at all, but wanted to a couple of times and changed our minds and stuck with the Elite benefit breakfast that, in addition to being really good and in a beautiful specialty dining venue, also included Mimosas, Bellini's and Bloody Mary's. 😉

LUNCH - The Eden Cafe' is complimentary, however, they did offer a lobster roll for $14 and a beefsteak and cheese melt for $9. We did see quite a few lobster rolls served. They are not on the menu that we had digitally, but were on the 'board' at the counter, on the display glass and the counter staff confirmed it was extra when ordered. The soups changed daily in addition to what we had; also tomato, chicken noodle, vegetable, clam chowder, potato, etc. We had the Roasted turkey & Cranberry Ciabatta and the Reuben Panini quite a bit. Very good, tasty and light. Tempted by the daily carving, but again, kept it light. Also had the red potato salad often. Diet Coke and Ginger Ale's are in a 'locked display' for those with the appropriate drink package. 😔

ASCENT 2/4/2024 – Awesome – The “Bests” Just off the Ascent 2/4 to 2/11/2024 and took the day off from this review in preparation and watching the Super Bowl. 🏈🍷 We stayed in the Prime Aqua Class with Infinite Veranda (and a really nice sized shower). Background – Since 2008, long list of over 80 weeks of cruises, primarily B2B or 12+N, on NCL Haven, MSC Yacht Club, Royal Oasis and Quantum Classes, Celebrity Solstice Class, all pre-Covid, with return on Silhouette (December 2023) and then Ascent (just now), so nothing 2020, 2021, 2022 until late 2023. We’re going to try a different type of ‘review’ by highlighting some of the “Bests” a couple at a time so that we don’t have a long-read review and members can respond to specific mentions. We’ll follow up with a couple of “Ooops” down the road. Hope it works. Here’s the first two 5-Star "Bests" ~ BEST #1 – The Edge Class 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 This ship was and is an incredible experience based on its’ awesome design(s), below deck, common and social areas, infinite veranda (yes, we loved it and will comment separately), bars, lounges and restaurants, a great Solarium (design improved with hot tubs at the center near waterfall décor and over pool) and a truly fantastic pool and top deck (so much seating and more social ‘nooks and crannies’ than an English muffin) and unique elevated hot tubs. The Solstice Class ‘grass’ is gone and replaced by a much superior and improved layout in so many regards that the deck plans don’t even give fair justice to the extent of the beautifully designed seating areas, bars, vegetation, cabanas, group seating venues with massive umbrellas, etc. The Infinite Veranda was great. We enjoyed it more on this one-week cruise than all of the combined 80 weeks of cruising with balconies combined. We know it’s a split issue on favorability with cruisers, so we’re all in on ‘it’s great’ for us. We did see Royal’s Icon of the Seas in a port (seriously, huge) and noticed the infinite verandas on what appeared to be 3 decks. That might have been an option for the Edge Class? When arriving in port in the morning and activating the ‘curtain’ up one does have to be quick for some more clothes as you dock next to another cruise ship. 😳 The Solarium was also really nice. The design moved the hot tubs from the sides of the deck (where they took up space and pushed the walk-through traffic closer to the loungers) to between and raised up over the pool and the waterfall effect decor and lighting. Shower located by the entrance steps. Plexiglass half arc covers on the pool and lounge side (likely to minimize noise, could use some more height for the one or two time "they" are in there a bit too fluidically nourished). 😉 The 2-Deck Walking Track is the best at sea (from our experiences listed), traverses 2-decks with incredible creativity and “almost zero interruption of or by’ and lounge chairs or tanning passengers. Also it is a good length and the incline long and deliberate with good activity and entertainment from the main pool below. Pretty much walked for an hour every day 10:30 - 11:30 in the sun and breeze and totally enjoyed it, got a good routine in and soaked in the white noise and views on the whole course. 🚶‍♂️ (the hair should be grey on this one). BEST #2 – EDEN The lounge, café and restaurant, are simply magnificent, a three-prong venue extraordinaire. 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 The lounge for us was the best and most used venue to have drinks, meet people (we met more couples and groups each early evening on this cruise than any other) and be with each other and simply enjoy the over-the-top design, décor and high, multi-floor glassed views. Eden reminded us a lot of 270 on Royal, but pushed way, way up to the top. Very good bar service and table side. The Café for us was our lunch destination, really good meat quality, pressed sandwiches, two soup options daily, salads (not up to the historic Park Café on Royal) and ‘cookies’ (to eat and ‘to go’). Service is a little rushed and, oddly, despite being very busy, the staff rushes to close the curtain (signature design to match physical walls) at 1:15. Seriously, even after just putting out dishes of chips, potato salad+ and cookies? All of the above while sitting anywhere in Eden. Really nice. The Restaurant, we made a reservation for ‘tasting’ [only available logged in to X account] and, a couple of days in, switched to regular menu at the host station [credit on account] and ultimately canceled. We’d been doing breakfast at the Elite (member benefit) Le Grand Bistro (more on that later), lunch at the Eden Café and dinner at BLU and we simply knew that we could not eat to the extent that the Eden Restaurant experience offered – based on the highest ratings, comments and sharing from those we socialized with on the ship. All such posted or commented that dining in Eden is ‘not to be missed’ and for the ‘tasting menu’ be very hungry and take your time. Will try someday.

You're a good advance planner. A couple of thoughts from our recent experiences (Silhouette December 10N, Ascent 7N this past week), both we consider last minute bookings ~ PRE-CRUISE on the Celebrity APP there we no times at all for Eden. On the APP (for us) Eden reservation didn't even offer the 'Tasting Menu' as a choice. By accident I was logged into to our X account and checked availability again. BOTH the regular menu and tasting menu options were presented; the regular was 'not available the entire cruise at any time' yet the tasting menu had numerous days and times available. We booked the tasting and, once on board, changed to the regular menu at the host station ahead of time, got the credit for the difference on the account. BOARDING presents an opportunity to book specialty dining at almost all of the venues and we met several couples that did successfully. POST-BOARDING presents an opportunity every day.- especially for Early times. We find that the Specialty restaurants 'are not very full at all' except for the final night, followed next by sea day nights. We believe a number of reasons account for this ~ ~ Retreat guests, likely specialty dining cruisers, have Luminae. ~ Aqua guests, also likely specialty dining cruisers have BLU. ~ With regard to Early, Elite benefits for those without beverage packages (an increasing count of passengers) include Happy Hour generally from 5-7 each night (except embarkation), several special events for welcome and meeting Captain and crew, etc. Primarily the 5-7 factor naturally pushes dining towards post-7 PM, a busy dining preference according to venue host and server comments. ~ Celebrity cruise line is well know for its high quality of food and service in the main dining venues.

The OP thread title ~ Perks that come in A1 Prime Aqua Class The entire back and forth about whether or not the Aqua Class staterooms are any good or not, and the broad brush across all classes that their locations are awful etc. do not appear very helpful or probably close to off topic. If members can't stick to the topic, start another thread, such as, Aqua Class Stateroom Locations are Awful. The OP has already selected the A1 Prime Aqua Class, probably after looking at the deck plans and making a reasonably informed decision for the specific ship like, assuming, most cruisers do.

On Ascent now in BLU and you can order off of the 'classic menu' from MDR items which includes certain appetizers and entrees any time. The waiter will tell you what those are if you are unfamiliar. It appears that they do try to 'keep it low key' (quite a bit on our cruise as a lot of savvy experienced cruisers, however) and some newer waitstaff will say 'they have to ask the manager.' The best approach, on embarkation, just ask for the the 'classic menu' alternatives for breakfast and dinner.

It's been fine as the wind and waves have been significantly less since we made it Cozumel. It appears the issue was the rough wind and water after we left Nassau back towards Miami and then along the Keys overnight and then on to Cozumel as such was hitting the ship starboard where we're located. A lot of passengers didn't have a couple of very good days or nights from the rough seas (didn't bother us); much lower attendance in BLU and hallway and common area joking by those of us walking 'to and fro' once in a while. So, I guess something does exist, just prevalent during rough wind and sea days, and directional.

Just to clarify to others, we made the post to support the OP that it does happen. 1. We LOVE the real infinite veranda and PREFER IT. 2. A couple of noisy rooms of notice across a lot of ships on Edge Class and other lines. That does NOT support the assertion that all Edge Class ships rooms are noisy. 🤥 Will be booking Ascent again for the very near. 😊 Now, one can add the LAUGH rating.

Well, we're on the Ascent right now. It is a seriously beautiful ship. Our first Edge Class cruise. So many improvements, upgrades, etc. The best. We'll write a review after. It is AWESOME. We're in Prime Aqua Class 9216, booked late. Our favorite layout with bed by the balcony (I get the left 😉). We had a little bit of seas last night and right next to my head between the infinite veranda (which we absolutely 100% love) and the corner over the nightstand was 'whatever'. Woke us up hen kept us up for a quite a while I guess unit we got super tired. Ship is moving a bit today according to others, we've got 70+ weeks at sea and it seems mild. The ship is super. The veranda is creaking but not really an issue. We'll see if the night time banging in the corner returns. Don't want to go the GS and have maintenance and others in our stateroom so we'll just grin and bear it. Should have bought the beverage package. 🙄

Not doing the laundry (list) but for us we cruise the YC for the following: 1. The design (staterooms, lounge, restaurant, pool, hot tubs and pool deck bar and grille are all 'in the venue') and relative intimate choice of comforts afforded by each and such. The lounge is the best at sea (for us, NCL, Celebrity and RCCL); view, comfort, privacy, bar and tastings, light live entertainment and very social if chosen. The restaurant is very good (and if experienced, customizable with proper notice), we like better than the Haven (experience with the same menu issues and service, purely subjective), and we cannot compare to the Retreat (however, the reviews and a look at the daily menus, plus Celebrity's food reputation, make it a tough call). The pool deck has it all (seating, a cold pool and hot tubs) and the pool deck bar and grille simply is the best at sea (almost the best lunch option every day) and some really special days. 2. The butler group (not our assigned) and the entire YC staff over-the-top service. 3. Nothing else is very important to us at all. *** Plus, we generally can B2B for the cost of the Haven for a 7N * * *

Glad you're having a good time. From these forums we've learned, and espoused thereafter in agreement, that MSC sea ships in the states are designed, built and offered for two distinct demographic targets (for one) and are definitely known for a low comparative entertainment offering of the "show" classification (two). First, the "non-Yacht Club" offers beautiful new ships with a pricing value objective of capturing the Carnival cruisers. Second, the Yacht Club offers one of the best "club-within-a-club" venues (superior space capture and seclusion design to begin with) as compared to the Haven on NCL and the Retreat on Celebrity (and others) with a pricing value objective of capturing the 'tiers below the competitors "club-within-a-club" offerings at a price competitive to a high end balcony and including full drinks, WIFI and the high end amenities mentioned above including private dining, incredible private lounge, private pool deck and pool bar and grill. Re: Entertainment. MSC, from not only this message forum, is actually known for its low relative (to other lines) rated entertainment; both in style, quality, performance and length. So, with that well known expectation, a different experience might be achievable. For ships with the best entertainment, there are numerous commentaries and ratings to look for. https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles/8-best-cruise-lines-for-onboard-entertainment

Actually, although a really good and valid point, IMO there is no better entertainment at sea than a view vantage observation seat and table near the center of the breakfast or lunch 'buffet' (various names on ships) during the cattle drive. Love it. Such balance, grip and gravity mastery of volumes of entrees, sides and extra's despite hip checks, elbows and the famous "immediate stoppers and directional shifters." 😉

It must be something special. After we returned (after 10 years) to Celebrity for a 10N SC on Silhouette in December 2023 we shared our positive experience with Laura (President, Celebrity Cruises) and indicated we were jumping into the Edge Class with the Ascent (2/4/2024). A snippet from the 12/15/2023 email ~ "thank you so much for sharing and we are thrilled to have you back. You are simply going to love Ascent. If I can entice you to see one show, please go see Awaken in the Theater, it is amazing!!"

Ok, you have me at . . . . . Will be on board this upcoming Sunday. If we can't get into Eden, a seat here will be just fine. Thanks and enjoy your cruise.