Carnival cruisers thinking of Celebrity cruise...what changes?

[Abilene01]

On Celebrity Equinox now. Totally rely on our waiter and sommelier for recommendations-have not steered us wrong. Don’t even open the menu. It’s so amazing and the service is outstanding. Totally different for us.

 

 

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[Keys2Heaven]

Well 2020 can't get here fast enough now!

 

We don't drink sparkling water (never been a taste I could get used to) and with only paying the difference in price if necessary, that seems like a winner to me.

 

Incidentally, my TA got the information I quoted earlier from someone at Celebrity. The TA records all calls with the cruise lines and that's what this individual said (i.e. have to pay full price for something not covered by classic package). We confirmed with Celebrity when finalizing the booking this afternoon that the information provided here was correct and it is.

[Luvcrusn]

Well 2020 can't get here fast enough now!

 

We don't drink sparkling water (never been a taste I could get used to) and with only paying the difference in price if necessary, that seems like a winner to me.

 

Incidentally, my TA got the information I quoted earlier from someone at Celebrity. The TA records all calls with the cruise lines and that's what this individual said (i.e. have to pay full price for something not covered by classic package). We confirmed with Celebrity when finalizing the booking this afternoon that the information provided here was correct and it is.

Have a wonderful cruise.

[raynvic]

Like others we are platinum on Carnival. We also have 5 Celebrity under our belt. We like both for different reasons. I find that familiarity helps make the experience. We have our milestone booked on Carnival for later this year and then it will likely be more on Celebrity. The only perk I really miss when sailing on Celebrity is the Platinum free laundry I get on Carnival. It sure comes in handy on the longer sailings. I don't think you will be disappointed. I like the shows better on Carnival, but don't miss the dining room singing. I love the Silent Disco on Celebrity and we like the Martini bars on both. No cruise is a bad cruise! Enjoy!

[swigso]

Yes, the sailing we are looking at includes the classic beverage package as one of the freebies you can choose. I asked our TA about the scenario you describe and they said this:

 

 

Your comment says that you only pay the difference, even with the classic package.

Can anyone else confirm? Or do we need to upgrade to the premium package?

For 10$ plus tip a day it’s to me a no brainer you can then have whatever you want plus the sommelier will bring you some nice wines that may not be on the wine list 👍🏻🍸🍸

[riclop]

Hi all,

 

My wife and I typically cruise Carnival but found a great itinerary on Celebrity that we'd like to try.

 

Just inquiring abut the transition to Celebrity from Carnival and anything we really need to know that is different. I heard something that dining is a bit different?

 

Is there a lot of nickle and diming once on board that seems to be the growing norm in the cruise industry?

 

We'd be sailing on Celebrity Silhouette if that helps tailor responses.

X is much better than Carnival.

[nickiford]

I have done 7 Carnival cruises and just booked my first Celebrity. I'm expecting a bit of a classier atmosphere, although we truly have no complaints about Carnival. We have stuck with Carnival because it's familiar and we have never really found anything to complain about but decided to branch out just to change things up a bit.

 

One thing that is different for sure is that Carnival doesn't have any areas that are off limits unless for special passengers like Elite, Suite, Aquaspa etc, but I think I've got a handle on where we don't belong lol. There is also a lot more specialty restaurant choices.

 

I'm looking forward to comfier loungers, the Solarium pool, non smoking casino and what I hope to be amazing food. We have booked a concierge cabin with the classic drinks package and we have $150 OBC which we plan to spend at the spa. My only hope is that I will be able to find a drink close to my Carnival fave Mocha Chocolate Getaway!

[drpepr]

I know the OP was attracted to an X itinerary but I find it interesting how many of you went to X from Carnival rather than Princess which is in the Carnival family. We have also sailed Princess and had a great time. It is interesting to note that the loyalty program between RCI companies give you a one time transfer but Carnival does not.

 

 

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[TFLG]

One thing that is different for sure is that Carnival doesn't have any areas that are off limits unless for special passengers like Elite, Suite, Aquaspa etc, but I think I've got a handle on where we don't belong lol. There is also a lot more specialty restaurant choices.

 

I'm looking forward to comfier loungers, the Solarium pool, non smoking casino and what I hope to be amazing food. We have booked a concierge cabin with the classic drinks package and we have $150 OBC which we plan to spend at the spa. My only hope is that I will be able to find a drink close to my Carnival fave Mocha Chocolate Getaway!

 

Honestly there's not many areas "off limits". 2 small dinner venues, and for an hour or two in the early evening one lounge that you probably would not go to anyway because there would be nothing going on it it if not for the Elite cocktail hour. So I doubt you will notice any of this. The comfier loungers are only on the S-class ships. The M-class still have those stupid plastic strap loungers like Carnival. If you know what's in your fav drink you can probably get the bartender to make it for you if he's not too busy. Sounds similar to a mudslide, which is popular on Celebrity. I always get them to make me painkillers which are not on any menu. I do have to tell them whats in it about 90% of the time.

[Luvcrusn]

I have done 7 Carnival cruises and just booked my first Celebrity. I'm expecting a bit of a classier atmosphere, although we truly have no complaints about Carnival. We have stuck with Carnival because it's familiar and we have never really found anything to complain about but decided to branch out just to change things up a bit.

 

One thing that is different for sure is that Carnival doesn't have any areas that are off limits unless for special passengers like Elite, Suite, Aquaspa etc, but I think I've got a handle on where we don't belong lol. There is also a lot more specialty restaurant choices.

 

I'm looking forward to comfier loungers, the Solarium pool, non smoking casino and what I hope to be amazing food. We have booked a concierge cabin with the classic drinks package and we have $150 OBC which we plan to spend at the spa. My only hope is that I will be able to find a drink close to my Carnival fave Mocha Chocolate Getaway!

Just a FYI. The Aqua Spa Café is free and available to all passengers and is located in the Solarium. The Aqua Class restaurant is Blu and is only for Aqua Class Passengers and on an availability basis to suite passengers. Suite passengers dining venue is Luminae.

You may enjoy mudslides or frozen toasted almond drinks in lieu of your Carnival fave Moch Chocolate Getaway.

[Luvcrusn]

It is interesting to note that the loyalty program between RCI companies give you a one time transfer but Carnival does not.

 

 

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The transfer or rather recognition is not one time only.

[DENIE]

We have 1 cruise with both lines, although the Carnival cruise was a 4 day cruise on an older ship - which probably draws more "party folks". We loved the more refined touches on Celebrity, and booked our 2nd one for later this year. We loved the demographic on Celebrity.

[misterkevin]

We have had five cruises on Carnival, and we had another booked on the Horizon for October. We are a couple in our early fifties with no kids. We have always enjoyed Carnival for the activities, entertainment, service, and specialty restaurants. We choose spa balconies or the Havana area and cruised when school was in session to avoid too many kids.

 

We just got off of our first cruise on the Summit last week. During that cruise we cancelled our booking on the Horizon in October and booked the Equinox on the nearly same itinerary one week earlier in Aqua class with a drink package and $450 OBC for $800 less than our Horizon booking.

 

Here's why: Celebrity is hands-down a better experience with better service, better food, more elegant ships. It's more adult. It's probably just a bit older on average than Carnival, but by no means geriatric. It's more sophisticated, but it's not snobbish. In fact, we met more people on this last cruise with whom we exchanged information who asked us to dine or have a cocktail with them than we ever did on a Carnival cruise.

 

We will miss the more frequent trivia and adding to our coveted Ship-on-a-stick collection. The evening shows on Carnival are better produced, but the quality of performers on Celebrity is higher. There isn't a nightly comedy club, either. I will miss the water slides a little, which were really fun. I never cared if I were a little out of place on them. Carnival definitely runs the "fun" ships!

 

However, when you're handed a glass of champagne as you embark, the bathrooms have real hand towels in them, there's an adults-only solarium playing soothing music with padded chaises, and everybody in the dining room knows your name by day 2, there's no contest. The room service menu has much better selections for breakfast. There are far more roving bar waiters around the pool and in the dining areas. We generally don't eat from the buffet, but sometimes walking through the area, I was so blown away by the quality and selection compared to Carnival, I'd grab a plate and take some nosh up to the room. I loved Celebrity. I can't wait to go back in October. They both have their strengths, but I hope you enjoy Celebrity as much as we did.

[Knolmom]

I have NEVER seen any man in a sleeveless undershirt ANYWHERE on Celebrity. Not even in the gym.

Edited January 22, 2018 by Knolmom
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[Keys2Heaven]

I have NEVER seen any man in a sleeveless undershirt ANYWHERE on Celebrity. Not even in the gym.

 

Even combined with sunglasses, a goatee, cargo shorts and flip flops on disgusting feet?

[sailingsusie]

We are another 50ish couple that have sailed a dozen Carnival cruises, a 11 day NCL and 1 short cruise on Princess. We were planning another Carnival on the Splendor this October...but saw the special Celebrity had on a few days ago, and booked the Summit sailing from San Juan. We are looking forward to it,, new things. We had sailed on the Sunshine last May, and I think it was that ship that started us thinking that it was time for a change. Too loud, could not get into the pool as it was filled with kids, and in the adult only area there was never any service. The dining room singing has lost its charm.

[Keys2Heaven]

We are another 50ish couple that have sailed a dozen Carnival cruises, a 11 day NCL and 1 short cruise on Princess. We were planning another Carnival on the Splendor this October...but saw the special Celebrity had on a few days ago, and booked the Summit sailing from San Juan. We are looking forward to it,, new things. We had sailed on the Sunshine last May, and I think it was that ship that started us thinking that it was time for a change. Too loud, could not get into the pool as it was filled with kids, and in the adult only area there was never any service. The dining room singing has lost its charm.

 

For us, Carnival is seen in a different light now that the kids are grown and we cruise by ourselves mostly. If not for taking my wife's brother and his wife this year (their 1st cruise) and a Hawaii sojourn next year, we'd look at booking Celebrity either year as well.

 

Speaking of the Sunshine, we took our girls on Destiny (now Sunshine) way back in 2006. Sailed out of San Juan. Nothing against that port but the ship was filled with locals who got very deep discounts for a first of December sailing and it was party party party. If it weren't for the girls being younger who didn't mind, it would have been an awful cruise for us.

 

 

While we've enjoyed our Carnival cruises immensely, it's time for a change. There are so many better itineraries and experiences to enjoy.

[poffles]

Well your responses have helped us make up our minds.....Celebrity, here we come!!

 

I don't think you will regret the choice. I sailed NCL couple times (thought they were great for casualness) Carnival once (my memories of it are line ups for everything, especially to eat!) then sailed Celebrity (drink package 'included' was the initial draw). Now booked for third sailing with Celebrity and have not gone back to other two, have considered then I talk myself out of it when reminded of why I looked elsewhere. Price typically balances for me, and often cheaper on Celebrity, due to considering value of the drink package included vs add on ... this of course would not be the same for others that don't drink or have other 'deals' they may get.

 

Celebrity being smoke free everywhere inside is another thing that I put a lot of value into, nothing worse than having to walk through internal areas where smoke has drifted through and it is pretty difficult to avoid them all. The calmness and many quiet areas to hide away far surpass other sailings I've been on too, which is really nice when you just feel like escaping the noise.

 

Enjoy your trip!

[poffles]

For us, Carnival is seen in a different light now that the kids are grown and we cruise by ourselves mostly. If not for taking my wife's brother and his wife this year (their 1st cruise) and a Hawaii sojourn next year, we'd look at booking Celebrity either year as well.

 

Speaking of the Sunshine, we took our girls on Destiny (now Sunshine) way back in 2006. Sailed out of San Juan. Nothing against that port but the ship was filled with locals who got very deep discounts for a first of December sailing and it was party party party. If it weren't for the girls being younger who didn't mind, it would have been an awful cruise for us.

 

While we've enjoyed our Carnival cruises immensely, it's time for a change. There are so many better itineraries and experiences to enjoy.

 

Sorry not answering question here but to add to your note about San Juan. I did the Carnival Victory out of San Juan and the cruise was wonderful but the ship itself never seemed to settle down. I know exactly what you mean. The other thing that I did not realize was that the itinerary allowed for more than the single cruise start/end port. There were people joining and leaving at almost all ports so of course every day was like the first day of the cruise which contributed to the chaos feeling and never felt it relaxed at all.

 

It showed how different things can alter a cruise, things one would never consider until they experienced it, not exactly Carnival problem but I will add that after that I sailed Celebrity Summit from San Juan and they could not have been more different, I was in heaven on Summit and felt so much calmer and enjoyable on the ship.

[GuitarPlayer]

Thank you. Carnival has suited us these past 12 years, but as we're getting older a lot of what they offer isn't as appealing as it once was. The kids are grown and the itineraries are growing rather stale. Celebrity offer better cruise lengths (no such thing as 10, 11 or 12-night Carnival cruise) and go to some places Carnival doesn't.

 

Smoking for us is a big deal (i.e. we're non-smokers) and it's no fun being forced to walk through the smoky casino area or go out of our way on another deck just to walk fore to aft.

 

I think we'll like Celebrity.

 

You sound a LOT like us.

 

First cruise was in 2004.

 

20+ cruises later, all on Carnival, we, too, are looking for something a bit different.

 

Considering the Reflection on the 11 day eastern in March out of FLL, including overnight at St Maarten (never heard of that on Carnival). Checking the boards, it seems Reflection just came out of dry dock? That has to be a plus.

 

I'm just a bit concerned that my first Celebrity cruise is an 11-day, and if I don't like it, I'm stuck for 11 days (did I just complain about being on a cruise ship for 11 days?).

 

Anyway, I appreciate your question and all the responses from everyone.

 

GP

[CA_Cruzing]

Celebrity is more pricy, more elegant, finer dining and a classier demographic of passengers. Far fewer kids on Celebrity. It is also a quieter line. You won't hear as much yelling and screaming over loudspeakers, not as many noisy, obnoxious things going on with screaming and yelling. It's not a party line, so a little more low energy and relaxed. People dress a bit nicer for dinner.

 

 

 

Disagree on pricier. Really depends on which cruise and season you’re booked on. Carnival Vista can be $200 per person/per day.

 

We just booked Celebrity Reflection for Mar 2019 for $179 per day. Both rooms are balconies (non CC and non AC room).

 

We booked Celebrity for everything else you list; few kids, more dining choices, a higher end experience (hopefully) and a classier clientele (praying).

 

We’ll still sail Carnival with our kids as they enjoy a livelier vacation. That’s really what Carnival is for us; noise, activities, music, silliness and people watching. Carnival never fails on people watching. Always something interesting to see and witness.

 

 

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[Keys2Heaven]

You sound a LOT like us.

 

First cruise was in 2004.

 

20+ cruises later, all on Carnival, we, too, are looking for something a bit different.

 

Considering the Reflection on the 11 day eastern in March out of FLL, including overnight at St Maarten (never heard of that on Carnival). Checking the boards, it seems Reflection just came out of dry dock? That has to be a plus.

 

I'm just a bit concerned that my first Celebrity cruise is an 11-day, and if I don't like it, I'm stuck for 11 days (did I just complain about being on a cruise ship for 11 days?).

 

Anyway, I appreciate your question and all the responses from everyone.

 

GP

 

Well, I need to correct myself as Carnival does offer 10, 11, and 14-night Journey's cruises.

[MyDogRudy]

If you enjoy beverages at all, the drink package is the perk you will get the most bang for your buck. The classic package is great if you are not picky about the types of alcohol in your drinks, or ordering the specialty drinks and martinis. I enjoy specific spirits and wine, so I upgrade (which is relatively cheap when the classic package is included).

 

We cruised Carnival for our first four cruises and were quite happy with them. However, at the time, we sailed with a group that allowed us to get a true Open Bar Card (before the Cheers program). When Celebrity started offering a drink package as part of their perks we switched over and are very happy with Celebrity. The décor is more elegant, fewer kids, fewer announcements, just more laid back. There are no upcharges in the dining room for certain steaks, the room service is still entirely free, so Carnival nickels and dimes a little bit more than Celebrity. We also really love the nearly smoke-free environment. There are only a few designated smoking areas and none of those are on cabin balconies, so no more neighbors smoking right next to me and ruining my balcony experience.

 

I recently priced another Carnival cruise since we still enjoyed that line and would sail with them again if we were with certain people or the price was right. However, once I figured in the drink package prices - Celebrity was cheaper. I miss the piano bar and the comedy acts on Carnival are better, but otherwise, everything else is comparable or better. I feel less pressured to purchase any extras like the photos or items in the shops. And, Silhouette was also our first Celebrity ship.

 

Planning a Caribbean cruise for next January on Celebrity - can't wait! You will enjoy your first Celebrity cruise!

[MJSailors]

To the OP

If you would like to see some great photos of the Silhouette and interesting descriptions of being aboard that ship,I would suggest you read a review of it by bimmer09.

He is posting on the Princess forum now about his recent cruise on the Crown Princess,8 day cruise to the ABC islands.

You can access his Shilouette review by expanding his signature. The Shilouette is one of the listed cruises there.

It may very well be time to enjoy Celebrity cruises and Princess cruises as well.

I find that as we get older comfort and relaxation are a necessity !

[Keys2Heaven]

If you enjoy beverages at all, the drink package is the perk you will get the most bang for your buck. The classic package is great if you are not picky about the types of alcohol in your drinks, or ordering the specialty drinks and martinis. I enjoy specific spirits and wine, so I upgrade (which is relatively cheap when the classic package is included).

 

Yep, we chose that for the exact same reason!

 

We cruised Carnival for our first four cruises and were quite happy with them. However, at the time, we sailed with a group that allowed us to get a true Open Bar Card (before the Cheers program). When Celebrity started offering a drink package as part of their perks we switched over and are very happy with Celebrity. The décor is more elegant, fewer kids, fewer announcements, just more laid back. There are no upcharges in the dining room for certain steaks, the room service is still entirely free, so Carnival nickels and dimes a little bit more than Celebrity. We also really love the nearly smoke-free environment. There are only a few designated smoking areas and none of those are on cabin balconies, so no more neighbors smoking right next to me and ruining my balcony experience.

 

Technically, smoking is prohibited on any Carnival balcony. Only the casino and an area topside are allowed smoking areas. But, there are those who consistently think the rules are for everyone else and smoke on their balcony. Yes, they do get reported, but we'd rather not have to deal with that at all.

 

 

I recently priced another Carnival cruise since we still enjoyed that line and would sail with them again if we were with certain people or the price was right. However, once I figured in the drink package prices - Celebrity was cheaper. I miss the piano bar and the comedy acts on Carnival are better, but otherwise, everything else is comparable or better. I feel less pressured to purchase any extras like the photos or items in the shops. And, Silhouette was also our first Celebrity ship.

 

I figure the Celebrity price is skewed somewhat to adjust for the free perks, but even comparing the cost to sail when those perks are offered with an equal Carnival cruise (length) + Cheers! and Celebrity is very close or beats Carnival's pricing.