Positive Reflection

[Seapoint]

SHIP:

 

Absolutely stunning! We did not feel it was overcrowded despite the extra 200 passengers compared to the other S-Class ships . We have done 4 cruises on Solstice, and one on Eclipse. Always easily found seats at the pool and other venues. In fact, we PREFERRED the layout with the extra deck, as one could walk from stem to stern on deck 15 without climbing stairs. We also preferred having the Ocean View cafe on the same level as the pool.

 

Most improved space is the new Sunset Bar..it is a really beautiful, chic venue. Also, as part of the redesign, the outside terrace of the Ocean View cafe has been vastly expanded. There were always tables available. Maybe in the future the aft decks of the other S Class ships can be Reflectionized :).

 

Best kept secret is the Porch. In fact, on embarkation day, it was not included in the list of venues open for lunch. We went up to deck 15, and sure enough it was open. So while crowds were in the OceanView Cafe, we had this magical venue to ourselves. The Reuben and chocolate cupcakes were outstanding.

 

Another successful new venue was Game On..this was always popular. The Hideaway was very pleasant, but we did not use it much.

 

The art collection is based on the theme "The Seductiveness of a Reflection", which provided a unifying theme to a very interesting collection. The live tree in the lobby, with a reflected sculpture of the tree, was especially noteworthy, as was the foyer to the speciality restaurants.

 

On the negative side, the Sky Lounge has been compromised by the extra suites, and is not as attractive as on the other ships. Hopefully this revenue change will not be made to the other S Class ships.

 

Biggest negative is the Alcoves at the Lawn Club. They were rarely used, and severely compromised the usefulness and spaciousness of the Lawn Club. For example, there was space for only one bocce set, versus several on the other ships, and no croquet or putting.

 

As on the other S Class ships, the lovely Ensemble Lounge is like a black hole at night! I am all in favor of the ambiance of low lighting, but this takes it to such an extreme that the venue is very underutilized, as it is so dark and dismal. As we have experienced this on other S Class ships, this is obviously a dictate from Miami.

 

CABIN:

 

We had Concierge 9310. Unfortunately, it creaked very loudly as the ship moved.

 

FOOD:

 

We had Anytime dining, and it worked smoothly. Food and service in MDR were excellent. We also had a fun evening at Qsine. While in San Juan, had dinner at the Lawn Club Grill. While service and ambience were excellent, we thought the salad bar was exceptionally poor, and the choice of sides abysmal! Flat breads were good. Pleased we tried it, but would not do it again. In fact, we thought the lamb chops in MDR were better!!

 

ENTERTAINMENT:

 

Typical Celebrity mix of big production shows and individual performers. Been there, done that! Music at the main pool still too loud at times (Mr Bayley, I thought you said you were addressing this issue). Also some pool activities really not compatible with Celebrities "Modern Luxury" positioning. If I wanted very loud, screeching commentary at the pool I would sail on Carnival.

 

SERVICE:

 

First rate. Did not experience any new ship/new crew glitches. In particular, the Captain and senior staff were very visible, and participated in a range of activities from giving lectures about the ship to the pool Olympics to the Liars show.

 

NET: Once again, a great cruise on Celebrity. Looking forward to comparing Reflection with Silhouette, which we sail in February.

[portofrome]

Thanks for your review.

[cruzccl]

Thanks for your review. I had such a great time on Reflection, I want to go back.

 

Bill