My favourite late evening entertainment. Always fun, sociable and very well attended. Unfortunately, Britannia holds it in the afternoon (not good) and the two big ones do not hold it at all.
Another factor, surely, is that the lifts on the three big ships are smaller than those on the older ones (which also have fewer passengers). Lifts on Aurora, the smallest, are huge compared to Britannia, etc.
C deck is better. Standard cabin but biggest balcony half under cover and half overlooked. More versatile and private. D deck balconies are totally overlooked.
One of the things I disliked about Iona was the atrium and surrounding eating and drinking venues. Too open. Noisy, no atmosphere and no privacy. Just like an airport terminal.
I wish my cruises on Aurora and Arcadia were cheap! Travelling solo in a balcony cabin on these two is pricey. Still worth it though. Could travel for less than half the price on the two big ones, but just not to my taste.
I booked this year's Arcadia Xmas/NY cruise while on board last Xmas. £50 deposit. Have been following price regularly and it has never been lower than I paid, or with as much OBC. Currently my cabin is £1000 pounds dearer with less OBC so I am happy. Does not always work out for the best though as I have cancelled and rebooked in the past.
Last thing I want on holiday is being organized or ruled by a timetable. Had all that when working.
Whatever happened to spontaneity?! Will stick to Aurora and Arcadia and do whatever I fancy at the time.
It is obvious now that all the venues on the new ships are too small for the numbers wanting to use them. Was told this by the hotel manager on Iona last year. She admitted that this was the reason pre booking was necessary and apologised for disappointment caused. No disappointment for me as I stick to the small ships!
People wanted to see Valencia and expected to be dropped at city entrance as it used to be. Not at a shopping mall too far out for those with mobility issues. I once walked from city to science park. Could not do it now. Very disappointing for many.
Uproar on Arcadia in June when passengers who wanted to visit Valencia were dropped a long way out at the shopping mall. Many did not get into the city as it was too far away. Not acceptable.
Seems like fixed dining is making a comeback! Have always done it as there is no stress or uncertainty involved and you can plan your evening knowing what time you are dining.
Only lunches I have seen have been for Caribbean and above. The welcome buffet was very good, especially the prawns, and the wine flowed plentifully! Galley and waiter parade on last night is also back. Must say the waiters on this ship are excellent, probably as they have more time to interact with diners.
Sailed on all the Solstice class ships plus Constellation. Nice ships. However, Celebrity do not want solo travellers (too expensive) so switched to P &O back in 2013, which I have found suits me better.