Summit August 12 - 19

[bhughey]

Sounds like a great cruise!

We look forward to sailing with you in October :)

[CruisingChick]

But I'll get there first! Leave in 8 weeks.:D

 

We'll make sure to warm up the crew for you.;)

 

Andrew

 

I beat both you and Lois, I get there in 45 more days!!!

 

Anne Maria

[EithneMay]

Thanks for the review!

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[KMT10612]

I know there have been a few reviews already, but thought we might provide our perspective.

 

Background: We are a couple in our early 50's, we are Elite with Celebrity and have sailed on all of their classes of ship, though not all the ships yet! We book everything from Concierge to Suites.

 

This cruise we were delighted in being able to get Sky Suite 6146 which is the one that is connected to the Penthouse. In our case, we had very quiet neighbors and never heard a peep out of them. The bathroom was terrific - oversized and just the right amount of space for two of us to get ready daily without being in the way. The closet space was on the smaller size, but more than sufficient. (Trust me, I'm an overpacker!). The absolute best part of the suite was indeed our butler, Keith. So kind, professional and very personable. We enjoyed our daily chats with him and even had a few funny inside jokes with him. We will be on the ship again in October and our greatest regret is that we don't have him as a butler!! (though he did beg us to try to change!!)

 

Speaking of staff, I have to say this was probably the most delightful experience of all with regard to staff and crew. We have never had any service issues on prior ships and always found people to be efficient and pleasant. On this ship in particular though, it just seemed that everyone without exception was so pleasant to deal with. We found that everyone from officers to crew were happy to do what it took to please you. They were very focused on service.

 

What is clear is that the Captain certainly leads by example. Capt Panos was such a charming and engaging person. We found him to be extremely personable and enjoyed getting to know him. His leadership is clearly reflected in the officers and crews dedication to ensuring complete the satisfaction of the passenagers. We had the priviledge of dining with him on the first formal night and really enjoyed the experience. Before dinner we had cocktails and canapes with our fellow tablemates and Lionel (CC Host). It was really a great time and we actually became friendly with one of the couples from that evening. We were also invited to join the Captain the following day for a tour of the bridge and then again to join him for coffee on another morning. We are fortunate that he is expected to be sailing with us again in October and we look forward to the pleasure of sailing with him.

 

As for the crowds - yes, it was crowded. The ship was at full capcity with over 400 children. It was also about 75% new Celebrity cruisers so it was indeed an interesting mix. Overall it was very pleasant and yes there are always the rare exceptions of running into someone that may be rude or annoying. I have to say it was minimal at best and we really have no major complaints about our fellow passengers.

 

The pools - they were crowded but honestly, if you were out there by 9 or 10 you could get a chair. Yes, it might not have been right next to the pool but there were chairs to had. The laugh for us were the families of 4 that would first show up at the pool around 11:30 and complain that there were no chairs up on the pool deck. Seriously, at 11:30 that's too late anywhere you go. Plus, we did find that chairs turned over all day. People did not necessarily stay out there all day as the weather really was quite hot. The one negative I do have is that parents refuse to read the signs that say NO DIAPERS. It really is annoying, and pool security did nothing about it. Every time we went by the TPool it was not full and you could get a chair. The hot tubs were HOT. Very very hot.

 

Restaurants - we had MDR table 206 for late seating. We had a great couple and great family of 3 at our table. Unfortunately the family of 3 only dined the one night opting for the buffet most other nights. We ate in Blu, Normandie and QSine each one night and the captains table once so we really were only in the main dining room 3 times. The service was very good, though they did seem busy. The someliers were busy but also backed each other up so our glasses were always full.

 

The Normandie is our favorite, but we were so full by the night we went there that it was hard to enjoy all the courses. The food and service were perfect. QSine was a fun experience but I think we will enjoy it more with more people. We are going to do this again in October with some friends so it should be fun. Blu is consistent and always good. We had breakfast there a few days and dinner once.

 

Drink package - we were on the line about buying this since we had 3 full days in Bermuda but once we figured out that we could also order bottles of water (including Pellegrini), it became worth it. We absolutely got our money's worth. The wine by the glass even had one of my favorite wines so that was my choice for dinner. Mornings frequently started with a glass or two of champagne by the pool!

 

Bermuda - this is a beautiful island with wonderful residents. Again, we met some of the nicest people during our time there. We did play golf one day at Port Royal. What a beautiful course. One word about golf clubs. I asked this before I left, but apparently had no good information. When boarding the Summit, depending on the longshoremen loading the luggage it will vary as to whether you can check your clubs or carry them on. This particular day they were not loading them and you had to carry them on. Apparently a week or two ago there was an incident where a passenger claimed something happened so they stopped that service. We carried our bags on (travel bags on wheels) and as soon as we boarded the ship, one of the officers immediately took it from us and had it delivered to our room. So it really was no hassle. At the end however, we were able to send them down with our luggage the night before and they were waiting with our bags for pick up.

 

Speaking of boarding, the Bayonne port was hands down the best embarkation and debarkation we have EVER experience. We got there about 10:30, easily dropped our bags with the porter and then dropped the car. We were on board by 11:15. Since we were in a suite, we actually booked the speciality restaurants right at check in (the Concierge is set up right there after you check in). On the last day, we were able to get group 1 for disembarking. We waited in the Normandie from about 7:45 AM for the all clear message. At 8:00 AM the announcement was made and we were cleared to disembark. From 8:00 AM we were off, got luggage, got car and were home, on Long Island by 10:00 AM!!!! Amazing!!!

 

The ship was spotless and well maintained. Someone else here reported dirty bathrooms but I have no idea where they were. I used several of the public facilities including those outside Oceanview and the other restaurants and never once saw anything but spotlessly cleaned bathrooms. All other areas around the ship were clean and well maintained. I can't think of anything that appeared unkempt.

 

Overall, this was indeed one of our best cruises despite the crowds and the number of "Locals" (that would be us too). The officers, crew and especially the Captain are to be thanked for making our trip so wonderful and we can not wait to board again on October 20th.

 

Hope I've given some insight, but please let me know if you have any specific questions I might be able to answer.

 

Thank you so much for the great review... It sounds like this ship is in top-notch shape after the repo :)

 

I personally am so anxious for my 1st ever experience with the Celebrity brand and to see the Summit first hand this coming October. It just so happens you will be on the very same sailing my Wife and I will be on this coming October. We are getting married in October and the October 20th Sailing is our Honeymoon cruise :) She has never been on a cruise before so I know she is beyond excited...

[Blazerboy]

I beat both you and Lois, I get there in 45 more days!!!

 

Anne Maria

My post was funny. Yours is just plain mean!:mad:(;))

 

Have a GREAT cruise, but don't break the ship.

 

Andrew

[CruisingChick]

My post was funny. Yours is just plain mean!:mad:(;))

 

Have a GREAT cruise, but don't break the ship.

 

Andrew

 

We probably won't break the ship, but we might leave it a little worse for wear. Of course they will need to do a full restock of the martini bar after our cruise.

 

One day we will all sail together - although I'm not sure Celebrity could handle it.

 

Anne Maria

[Blazerboy]

We probably won't break the ship, but we might leave it a little worse for wear. Of course they will need to do a full restock of the martini bar after our cruise.

 

One day we will all sail together - although I'm not sure Celebrity could handle it.

 

Anne Maria

Yeah, I'm a little worried about the crew we've assembled for the repo. I'm afraid cruise reviews afterwards will refer to "those people," and complain that we took over the ship...and there are only 8 of us.:eek:

 

Poor Lois...:rolleyes:

 

Andrew

[bhughey]

Yeah, I'm a little worried about the crew we've assembled for the repo. I'm afraid cruise reviews afterwards will refer to "those people," and complain that we took over the ship...and there are only 8 of us.:eek:

 

Poor Lois...:rolleyes:

 

Andrew

 

I promise to be on my very best behavior! :)

[cherylroslyn]

I know there have been a few reviews already, but thought we might provide our perspective.

 

Background: We are a couple in our early 50's, we are Elite with Celebrity and have sailed on all of their classes of ship, though not all the ships yet! We book everything from Concierge to Suites.

 

This cruise we were delighted in being able to get Sky Suite 6146 which is the one that is connected to the Penthouse. In our case, we had very quiet neighbors and never heard a peep out of them. The bathroom was terrific - oversized and just the right amount of space for two of us to get ready daily without being in the way. The closet space was on the smaller size, but more than sufficient. (Trust me, I'm an overpacker!). The absolute best part of the suite was indeed our butler, Keith. So kind, professional and very personable. We enjoyed our daily chats with him and even had a few funny inside jokes with him. We will be on the ship again in October and our greatest regret is that we don't have him as a butler!! (though he did beg us to try to change!!)

 

Speaking of staff, I have to say this was probably the most delightful experience of all with regard to staff and crew. We have never had any service issues on prior ships and always found people to be efficient and pleasant. On this ship in particular though, it just seemed that everyone without exception was so pleasant to deal with. We found that everyone from officers to crew were happy to do what it took to please you. They were very focused on service.

 

What is clear is that the Captain certainly leads by example. Capt Panos was such a charming and engaging person. We found him to be extremely personable and enjoyed getting to know him. His leadership is clearly reflected in the officers and crews dedication to ensuring complete the satisfaction of the passenagers. We had the priviledge of dining with him on the first formal night and really enjoyed the experience. Before dinner we had cocktails and canapes with our fellow tablemates and Lionel (CC Host). It was really a great time and we actually became friendly with one of the couples from that evening. We were also invited to join the Captain the following day for a tour of the bridge and then again to join him for coffee on another morning. We are fortunate that he is expected to be sailing with us again in October and we look forward to the pleasure of sailing with him.

 

As for the crowds - yes, it was crowded. The ship was at full capcity with over 400 children. It was also about 75% new Celebrity cruisers so it was indeed an interesting mix. Overall it was very pleasant and yes there are always the rare exceptions of running into someone that may be rude or annoying. I have to say it was minimal at best and we really have no major complaints about our fellow passengers.

 

The pools - they were crowded but honestly, if you were out there by 9 or 10 you could get a chair. Yes, it might not have been right next to the pool but there were chairs to had. The laugh for us were the families of 4 that would first show up at the pool around 11:30 and complain that there were no chairs up on the pool deck. Seriously, at 11:30 that's too late anywhere you go. Plus, we did find that chairs turned over all day. People did not necessarily stay out there all day as the weather really was quite hot. The one negative I do have is that parents refuse to read the signs that say NO DIAPERS. It really is annoying, and pool security did nothing about it. Every time we went by the TPool it was not full and you could get a chair. The hot tubs were HOT. Very very hot.

 

Restaurants - we had MDR table 206 for late seating. We had a great couple and great family of 3 at our table. Unfortunately the family of 3 only dined the one night opting for the buffet most other nights. We ate in Blu, Normandie and QSine each one night and the captains table once so we really were only in the main dining room 3 times. The service was very good, though they did seem busy. The someliers were busy but also backed each other up so our glasses were always full.

 

The Normandie is our favorite, but we were so full by the night we went there that it was hard to enjoy all the courses. The food and service were perfect. QSine was a fun experience but I think we will enjoy it more with more people. We are going to do this again in October with some friends so it should be fun. Blu is consistent and always good. We had breakfast there a few days and dinner once.

 

Drink package - we were on the line about buying this since we had 3 full days in Bermuda but once we figured out that we could also order bottles of water (including Pellegrini), it became worth it. We absolutely got our money's worth. The wine by the glass even had one of my favorite wines so that was my choice for dinner. Mornings frequently started with a glass or two of champagne by the pool!

 

Bermuda - this is a beautiful island with wonderful residents. Again, we met some of the nicest people during our time there. We did play golf one day at Port Royal. What a beautiful course. One word about golf clubs. I asked this before I left, but apparently had no good information. When boarding the Summit, depending on the longshoremen loading the luggage it will vary as to whether you can check your clubs or carry them on. This particular day they were not loading them and you had to carry them on. Apparently a week or two ago there was an incident where a passenger claimed something happened so they stopped that service. We carried our bags on (travel bags on wheels) and as soon as we boarded the ship, one of the officers immediately took it from us and had it delivered to our room. So it really was no hassle. At the end however, we were able to send them down with our luggage the night before and they were waiting with our bags for pick up.

 

Speaking of boarding, the Bayonne port was hands down the best embarkation and debarkation we have EVER experience. We got there about 10:30, easily dropped our bags with the porter and then dropped the car. We were on board by 11:15. Since we were in a suite, we actually booked the speciality restaurants right at check in (the Concierge is set up right there after you check in). On the last day, we were able to get group 1 for disembarking. We waited in the Normandie from about 7:45 AM for the all clear message. At 8:00 AM the announcement was made and we were cleared to disembark. From 8:00 AM we were off, got luggage, got car and were home, on Long Island by 10:00 AM!!!! Amazing!!!

 

The ship was spotless and well maintained. Someone else here reported dirty bathrooms but I have no idea where they were. I used several of the public facilities including those outside Oceanview and the other restaurants and never once saw anything but spotlessly cleaned bathrooms. All other areas around the ship were clean and well maintained. I can't think of anything that appeared unkempt.

 

Overall, this was indeed one of our best cruises despite the crowds and the number of "Locals" (that would be us too). The officers, crew and especially the Captain are to be thanked for making our trip so wonderful and we can not wait to board again on October 20th.

 

Hope I've given some insight, but please let me know if you have any specific questions I might be able to answer.

Thank you for your review.

 

I am also on the Repo in October.....

 

 

You made my day now that I know Captain Panos will be on our sailing......

 

His leadership extends all the way down the flag pole and I noticed a marked difference when he was not on my Summit sailing this spring...

 

Look foward to meeting you and all of the other Repo Cruisers that hve been commenting on this thread.....seems like a fantastic group........

 

 

Only one say thing........no LOIS R on this sailing........:(

 

Sorry Lois R......

 

 

I know cruising the last week of the month is never possible for you because of work....

 

I was so excited when I saw Captain Panos because I knew you were sailing right after me....I remembered last year he was going to be on the sailing that you had to cancel when your dad died....:( I am sad that you will be missing him by a few short days......

[joelmarj]

Thank you so much for the great review... It sounds like this ship is in top-notch shape after the repo :)

 

I personally am so anxious for my 1st ever experience with the Celebrity brand and to see the Summit first hand this coming October. It just so happens you will be on the very same sailing my Wife and I will be on this coming October. We are getting married in October and the October 20th Sailing is our Honeymoon cruise :) She has never been on a cruise before so I know she is beyond excited...

Congrats!!! I hope it is a great honeymoon. We are actually going to be celebrating our 2nd anniversary. We sailed on the Solstice for our honeymoon. (along with Blazerboy too!!)

[joelmarj]

The Repo looks to be turning into a great group. I hope my review doesn't disappoint!!! :eek:

[K.T.B.]

I agree about the service but was totally shocked by the quality of the food. We were lucky enough to be able to dine at Blu but still had really poor food there. We got the lump crab cocktail which no way was lump but a finely grated lower calibre crab that was so fishy I had to drink a glass of wine to get the taste out of my mouth.

We ordered the gnocchi with artichokes and they never removed the choke - it was inedible.

Lastly, I got the cod(?) which was in a greasy crust, more crust than fish over a bed a peas (I hate peas - not their fault)

 

The only good food was at the 2 specially restaurants and the bistro on 5 - amazing and of course Cafe Bacio - wonderful and the burgers by the pool. Just my opinion - I don't know if we'll sail Celebrity again - maybe it's the millennium class - we sailed Solstice last time not even AQ

 

Comparing the buffet to Golden Corral, at least for me, is a good thing. :) Of all the chain buffets I've been to in my life, I GC the best. It's the crowds that I dislike! :D

[Cruise a holic]

I know there have been a few reviews already, but thought we might provide our perspective.

 

Background: We are a couple in our early 50's, we are Elite with Celebrity and have sailed on all of their classes of ship, though not all the ships yet! We book everything from Concierge to Suites.

 

This cruise we were delighted in being able to get Sky Suite 6146 which is the one that is connected to the Penthouse. In our case, we had very quiet neighbors and never heard a peep out of them. The bathroom was terrific - oversized and just the right amount of space for two of us to get ready daily without being in the way. The closet space was on the smaller size, but more than sufficient. (Trust me, I'm an overpacker!). The absolute best part of the suite was indeed our butler, Keith. So kind, professional and very personable. We enjoyed our daily chats with him and even had a few funny inside jokes with him. We will be on the ship again in October and our greatest regret is that we don't have him as a butler!! (though he did beg us to try to change!!)

 

Speaking of staff, I have to say this was probably the most delightful experience of all with regard to staff and crew. We have never had any service issues on prior ships and always found people to be efficient and pleasant. On this ship in particular though, it just seemed that everyone without exception was so pleasant to deal with. We found that everyone from officers to crew were happy to do what it took to please you. They were very focused on service.

 

What is clear is that the Captain certainly leads by example. Capt Panos was such a charming and engaging person. We found him to be extremely personable and enjoyed getting to know him. His leadership is clearly reflected in the officers and crews dedication to ensuring complete the satisfaction of the passenagers. We had the priviledge of dining with him on the first formal night and really enjoyed the experience. Before dinner we had cocktails and canapes with our fellow tablemates and Lionel (CC Host). It was really a great time and we actually became friendly with one of the couples from that evening. We were also invited to join the Captain the following day for a tour of the bridge and then again to join him for coffee on another morning. We are fortunate that he is expected to be sailing with us again in October and we look forward to the pleasure of sailing with him.

 

As for the crowds - yes, it was crowded. The ship was at full capcity with over 400 children. It was also about 75% new Celebrity cruisers so it was indeed an interesting mix. Overall it was very pleasant and yes there are always the rare exceptions of running into someone that may be rude or annoying. I have to say it was minimal at best and we really have no major complaints about our fellow passengers.

 

The pools - they were crowded but honestly, if you were out there by 9 or 10 you could get a chair. Yes, it might not have been right next to the pool but there were chairs to had. The laugh for us were the families of 4 that would first show up at the pool around 11:30 and complain that there were no chairs up on the pool deck. Seriously, at 11:30 that's too late anywhere you go. Plus, we did find that chairs turned over all day. People did not necessarily stay out there all day as the weather really was quite hot. The one negative I do have is that parents refuse to read the signs that say NO DIAPERS. It really is annoying, and pool security did nothing about it. Every time we went by the TPool it was not full and you could get a chair. The hot tubs were HOT. Very very hot.

 

Restaurants - we had MDR table 206 for late seating. We had a great couple and great family of 3 at our table. Unfortunately the family of 3 only dined the one night opting for the buffet most other nights. We ate in Blu, Normandie and QSine each one night and the captains table once so we really were only in the main dining room 3 times. The service was very good, though they did seem busy. The someliers were busy but also backed each other up so our glasses were always full.

 

The Normandie is our favorite, but we were so full by the night we went there that it was hard to enjoy all the courses. The food and service were perfect. QSine was a fun experience but I think we will enjoy it more with more people. We are going to do this again in October with some friends so it should be fun. Blu is consistent and always good. We had breakfast there a few days and dinner once.

 

Drink package - we were on the line about buying this since we had 3 full days in Bermuda but once we figured out that we could also order bottles of water (including Pellegrini), it became worth it. We absolutely got our money's worth. The wine by the glass even had one of my favorite wines so that was my choice for dinner. Mornings frequently started with a glass or two of champagne by the pool!

 

Bermuda - this is a beautiful island with wonderful residents. Again, we met some of the nicest people during our time there. We did play golf one day at Port Royal. What a beautiful course. One word about golf clubs. I asked this before I left, but apparently had no good information. When boarding the Summit, depending on the longshoremen loading the luggage it will vary as to whether you can check your clubs or carry them on. This particular day they were not loading them and you had to carry them on. Apparently a week or two ago there was an incident where a passenger claimed something happened so they stopped that service. We carried our bags on (travel bags on wheels) and as soon as we boarded the ship, one of the officers immediately took it from us and had it delivered to our room. So it really was no hassle. At the end however, we were able to send them down with our luggage the night before and they were waiting with our bags for pick up.

 

Speaking of boarding, the Bayonne port was hands down the best embarkation and debarkation we have EVER experience. We got there about 10:30, easily dropped our bags with the porter and then dropped the car. We were on board by 11:15. Since we were in a suite, we actually booked the speciality restaurants right at check in (the Concierge is set up right there after you check in). On the last day, we were able to get group 1 for disembarking. We waited in the Normandie from about 7:45 AM for the all clear message. At 8:00 AM the announcement was made and we were cleared to disembark. From 8:00 AM we were off, got luggage, got car and were home, on Long Island by 10:00 AM!!!! Amazing!!!

 

The ship was spotless and well maintained. Someone else here reported dirty bathrooms but I have no idea where they were. I used several of the public facilities including those outside Oceanview and the other restaurants and never once saw anything but spotlessly cleaned bathrooms. All other areas around the ship were clean and well maintained. I can't think of anything that appeared unkempt.

 

Overall, this was indeed one of our best cruises despite the crowds and the number of "Locals" (that would be us too). The officers, crew and especially the Captain are to be thanked for making our trip so wonderful and we can not wait to board again on October 20th.

 

Hope I've given some insight, but please let me know if you have any specific questions I might be able to answer.

 

Hello Marj,

Glad that you got home without any issues. We agree that the cruise was wonderful! The ship is great and we also hope to plan another cruise on it perhaps next year. We are truly Celebrity fans! The dinner, coffee and the bridge tour with the Captain made the cruise extra special!

 

We are currently booked on the Eclipse-the two week new years cruise and the Reflection end of March. Perhaps we might consider the summit next August as well.

 

It was nice meeting and dining with you and your husband.

[joelmarj]

Hello Marj,

Glad that you got home without any issues. We agree that the cruise was wonderful! The ship is great and we also hope to plan another cruise on it perhaps next year. We are truly Celebrity fans! The dinner, coffee and the bridge tour with the Captain made the cruise extra special!

 

We are currently booked on the Eclipse-the two week new years cruise and the Reflection end of March. Perhaps we might consider the summit next August as well.

 

It was nice meeting and dining with you and your husband.

 

It was a pleasure meeting you both as well. Lucky you on the future sailings. The 14 day cruises are wonderful so maybe we will get to book it next year.

 

Hope to sail with you again soon!!

[laurenvit]

This is basically our cruise, 1 year later. Same timeframe, same cabin. Thanks for the great review, and for the reassurance about the closet ;)

[Blazerboy]

I was only saying "poor Lois" because we will have worn out the crew (especially after Anne Maria's cruise right before ours!) Maybe THAT'S why the captain scheduled his vacation then...:D

 

BHughey, I 've seen how you behave- that's my worry!;)

 

Andrew

[twoputt.plusone]

Thank you very much for your review, Marj! I've read a few downer reviews about the Summit recently and I've been hoping it's just that some people don't know how to have a good time:rolleyes: I, too, am on the Oct. repo and feel quite uplifted by your review. Can't wait...:D

Deb

 

I was on this cruise as well and you have nothing to worry about. The ship is in tip top shape with great staff. No matter which cruise is being discussed, you're always going to hear conflicting opinions regarding the quality of the food. For me, it was much better than I expected. I'd have no hesitation booking again.

[kendon]

Thank you very much for your review, Marj! I've read a few downer reviews about the Summit recently and I've been hoping it's just that some people don't know how to have a good time:rolleyes: I, too, am on the Oct. repo and feel quite uplifted by your review. Can't wait...:D

Deb

 

Very unfair to think that those who have negative comments just don't know how to have a good time:rolleyes. Having done 24 cruises, now 25, I think I have a good point of reference. I always hope that my negative comments would be taken as constructive and that Celebrity (who uses the "X" for luxury...hmmm) would improve in the areas that people are noticing are weaknesses. I had a pretty good time, but had the ship experience been better, I would have had a fabulous time. Again, please don't be so unfair.

[bhughey]

Very unfair to think that those who have negative comments just don't know how to have a good time:rolleyes. Having done 24 cruises, now 25, I think I have a good point of reference. I always hope that my negative comments would be taken as constructive and that Celebrity (who uses the "X" for luxury...hmmm) would improve in the areas that people are noticing are weaknesses. I had a pretty good time, but had the ship experience been better, I would have had a fabulous time. Again, please don't be so unfair.

 

 

I think the reference was intended as joke more so than a literal statement. Personally - I have NEVER been on a cruise where the ship experience was perfect... but all of my cruises have been perfect :) (well, except the time my husband got sick on the Disney Wonder and never left the cabin until the day we disembarked... leaving me to spend the entire time with my inlaws, nieces and nephews!)

 

I am curious, (and I am being sincerely nice, as tone does not carry on a message board), why you frequent the X boards so often for someone who does not plan to sail Celebrity again?