Jim_Iain - B2B Sydney - Honolulu - Vancouver

[Jim_Iain]

14 hours ago, JLMcruise said:

We have spent a lot time on the Solstice - love seeing the pictures and the crew! Your pictures are wonderful!

 

I have to say that Solstice has has brought back the joy of cruising with Celebrity.  While many things have changed the ship the staff and the officers are outstanding.

 

I was thinking this morning of how many things we are grateful for and the joy I have to spend such quality time with Iain while at sea.     Even though I was noting things like Spread instead of butter and less expensive chocolates ---it really doesn't matter. 

 

I should have added --- at home we eat Canola  Spread instead of butter and we never eat the chocolates anyway.   Iain always brings them home and uses them for cooking or for treats for the kids. 

 

I also have to add that we have met so many nice people on this cruise.   So many from Cruise Critics have come up to us and introduced themselves.   It is so much fun to put a face and a real name against a handle. 

[Jim_Iain]

13 hours ago, billc23 said:

Wow! It looks like you are getting shortchanged.

 

 

 

 

 

LOL --- OK Bill...   I was think they were treating you well Upstairs in the Penthouse and felt like we were downstairs in the service area like Downton Abbey.     At least you revealed that the beautiful chocolate selection was fro SilverSea -   What a treat.   Looking forward to our first SilverSea experience.

 

I would say that is more that a small difference between the two cruise line.    I have a feeling they may just get consumed at sea instead of bringing them home for baking.

[Jim_Iain]

12 hours ago, mahdnc said:

Apr 18th occurred twice for your sailing, correct?

Yes --- Yesterday became today.....

[Jim_Iain]

9 hours ago, Alcairns said:

At least you are getting chocolates on your pillow. Not a lot of cruise lines are doing this now! 

 

I agree ---- I've been a real 6itch complaining about little things -----  Back to Glass 3/4 full instead of 1/4 empty.   

[Jim_Iain]

What a beautiful morning.     I'm up sipping a a cup of coffee.... I'm going to miss the coffee machine in our room next week.   We will be in a Celebrity Suite next cruise.   Luckily Iain will be able to take his Tea Kettle with him.    By the way the Royal on Solstice only has a Coffee Maker but we had requested a tea kettle and our every wish has been granted. 

 

The sun is up and the seas are as smooth as glass.    I was surprised when I went out to take a picture that the temperatures are already are already HOT.    We are approaching the equator and tomorrow, well at least we are having the Neptune Party tomorrow.   Time for all newbies to Kiss the Fish. 

 

We are currently at -.3.75339 S / -166.73630 W sailing on a north westerly course

[Jim_Iain]

 

[kwokpot]

11 minutes ago, Jim_Iain said:

have to say that Solstice has has brought back the joy of cruising with Celebrity.  While many things have changed the ship the staff and the officers are outstanding.

It's always interesting how everyone has different experiences and it goes to show you why it's always important to read between the lines when doing research on the cruising experience. We were on the Solstice last February and then the Apex last July and Ascent this past February. While none of our cruises were in Retreat I can honestly say of the three recent Celebrity cruises the Solstice out of LA for the Mexican Riviera itinerary was our least favorite with regards to the cruise ship experience. On the Solstice there wasn't lobster served on either Chic Night. On the other hand the Caribbean itinerary on the Ascent was a wonderful cruise experience throughout the ship.

 

19 minutes ago, Jim_Iain said:

20 minutes ago, Jim_Iain said:

should have added --- at home we eat Canola  Spread instead of butter

 

Have you tried Olivio Spread? Love the taste of it.

[Jim_Iain]

The slots have been good to me.  Took the photo last night then realized I still had the final cash out of $700 still in my pocket.   

 

Slots on Solstice have been really tight.  You are immediately locked out when pull cash off room charge until you play (not win or loose) 50% of the withdrawal. 
 

 

 

To make it easy.  
 

 

plus’s the amount I skimmed off for my pocket.  Shhh don’t tell Iain.   Must be my commission. 

 

 

[Jim_Iain]

I agree 100% Anthony.   We each experience a cruise in our own way -  thus it's important to read between the lines and determine for oneself what you enjoy doing. 

 

Like you many of the guests we spoke to on E-Class ships said they chose to eat in the MDR than in Luminae due to the better selection and better food prep.    For us, I found the retreat experience was for both the Lounge and Luminae to be sub-par to that of the S-Class.  

 

I admit we have dined in Luminae about 50% of the time and been eating in Murano and Tuscan Grill 50% of the time.     We have been taking full advantage of the unlimited specialty dining with the RS.     For the first time I've also been taking advantage of the free gelato. 

 

One think I have noticed -  probably the demographics is the Martini Bar which is almost always the center stage for many drinkers has been quiet and maybe 50% occupancy.    I have to believe it may be the high percentage of Australian Cruisers without drink packages. 

 

The other night we went to the World Class Bar with friends.   We normally drink at the Retreat Bar.    It was so loud one could hardly hold a conversation.     It really wasn't the norm, but Etsy was having a promo diamond giveaway an had loud music an a barker on the microphone for an hour prior to the big ticket drawing. 

 

I also need to point out that we don't go to the Shows, Comedy Club, Disco and many other things you young folks enjoy.    

 

 

[Jim_Iain]

I’ve received a couple requests for activities with all the sea days.  
 

They have something going all the time. 
 

 

 

 

[Jim_Iain]

I've been reading Janet's @81Zoomie wonderful Live report on Edge.   We were lucky enough to meet in Sydney when we arrived in Sydney.  

Her month long cruise has come to an end.   She is an incredible photographer and puts me to shame.     

 

She just posted a comparison of E an S class from her perspective...   She is so organized thought I would steal it and come back and compare later.   

 

So far I do have to agree with the Pros and Cons -   So many of the Pros I seem to have forgotten about.   Like Anthony pointed out some of the Pros to one passenger may be a Con to another ---- e.g. if one were not in a suite the lack of forward looking space is a big Con while those in suites consider it a Pro. 

 

Take some time and have a read of her review.   She is so organized...  not like me that rambles and all over the place.

 

 

Shoreside Concierge - This can be summed up in one word, FAIL.  I am not certain why Celebrity sends out the emails and/or calls asking for your requests.  I filled it out for both our cruises and not one of the requests was met.  Special event - Ignored. Extra Hangers - Nope.  We finally received a handful of wire hangers. Choice of wine - Nope. Additionally, I requested a mattress topper - Nope.  The cabin attendant did bring one upon request.  Thermostat - Seems silly as you can adjust on your own.

 

E Class

 

- Pros - Magic Carpet as a tender platform

           - Retreat Sun Deck

           - Walking track

           - Eden (all the old creepy aspects are gone!)

           - Sky Suite bathrooms

           - High ceilings in Oceanview Cafe

           - Motion activated touchless doors in public areas

           - Clean contemporary decor.  Some of the  

             uncomfortable Hoppen seating has been

             replaced.

 

- Cons - No open atrium

            - Tends to be priced higher than M and S Class

              voyages

            - Higher number of suites

            - Slow tendering and disembarkation in ports of

              call

            - No views in Martini Bar and The Club Bar

            - IV Verandahs.  Not to our liking.  More like a

              panoramic oceanview.

            - Undisclosed noise issues in many cabins in

              rough seas.

            - Lack of shade outside

            - Lack for forward view public spaces. No

              forward view lounge.  No forward view except

              for Retreat Sundeck, Thermal Spa Sundeck,        
              and the gym 🏋️‍.

            - Lack of overhead space heaters and protection

              from rain in outdoor bars and restaurants.

[mahdnc]

1 hour ago, Jim_Iain said:

Yes --- Yesterday became today.....

Thanks.  Our Solstice transpacific has its double day on Apr 18 next year. I thought your itinerary would have the same double day on Apr 18

Edited April 20 by mahdnc

[Jim_Iain]

7 minutes ago, mahdnc said:

Thanks.  Our Solstice transpacific has its double day on Apr 18 next year. I thought your itinerary would have the same double day on Apr 18

 

It's really difficult to wrap your head around in advance but was really painless..... well kinda.

 

There were problems booking excursions as you would get rejected due to already having an excursion booked.   The app was really screwed up.   We had a reminder that we had a reservation at Tuscan on the first 18th but was on the second.    When in Pago Pago the app said we were at sea.     Oh well just have another drink and all worked itself out.

[Oceangoer2]

1 hour ago, Jim_Iain said:

 

Nice to see Kiribati located on one of your pics.....the most memorable port of any cruise we've taken and the most natural beach...like a tropical postcard.

 

 

[81Zoomie]

9 hours ago, hcat said:

X is getting  really chinzy on your  chocolates!   We had the regular tiny pieces on ASCENT. 

 

The spread contains  oil and is only 68% butter..from Denmark..  Odd

We had the tiny chocolate squares and the butter/rapeseed spread in the OV on Edge as well 😕.  The spread melts very quickly if the plate is warm.

[Gracie115]

3 hours ago, kwokpot said:

It's always interesting how everyone has different experiences and it goes to show you why it's always important to read between the lines when doing research on the cruising experience. We were on the Solstice last February and then the Apex last July and Ascent this past February. While none of our cruises were in Retreat I can honestly say of the three recent Celebrity cruises the Solstice out of LA for the Mexican Riviera itinerary was our least favorite with regards to the cruise ship experience. On the Solstice there wasn't lobster served on either Chic Night. On the other hand the Caribbean itinerary on the Ascent was a wonderful cruise experience throughout the ship.

 

 

 

I agree with @Jim_Iain in preferring S class to E Class.  I would have to say though that since you were on Ascent, the newest of the ships, that you also most likely had the best possible staff that Celebrity has...it seems to run that way with the new ships.  

 

Since my husband can't eat lobster and I don't like it much that would not have impacted us on your Solstice voyage.

 

But as is said so often, we all have different preferences, thankfully we have choices to meet those preferences.  

[Jim_Iain]

1 hour ago, 81Zoomie said:

We had the tiny chocolate squares and the butter/rapeseed spread in the OV on Edge as well 😕.  The spread melts very quickly if the plate is warm.

 

In ways it is better than the butter.   Iain would have to drop the butter in hot water to soften in order to put it on his bread at lunch.  

 

I had a baked potato for lunch yesterday and noticed it melted quickly.

 

 

[Jim_Iain]

25 minutes ago, Gracie115 said:

 

I agree with @Jim_Iain in preferring S class to E Class.  I would have to say though that since you were on Ascent, the newest of the ships, that you also most likely had the best possible staff that Celebrity has...it seems to run that way with the new ships.  

 

Since my husband can't eat lobster and I don't like it much that would not have impacted us on your Solstice voyage.

 

But as is said so often, we all have different preferences, thankfully we have choices to meet those preferences.  

 

At least in Luminae they have had lots of lobster.... Lobster roll, first day, a poached lobster starter on one night and Lobster night that I remember.    I had the starter but passed on the Lobster night.   I enjoy Lobster but much prefer New England Cold Water Lobster.... So much sweeter and tender.

[DaKahuna]

19 hours ago, Jim_Iain said:

Sine Linda’s birthday was the 19th she got 2 Birthdays this year. 

 

But only one year younger right, not two years older?  

 

[hcat]

4 hours ago, Jim_Iain said:

 

Perfect!

[hcat]

3 hours ago, Jim_Iain said:

I've been reading Janet's @81Zoomie wonderful Live report on Edge.   We were lucky enough to meet in Sydney when we arrived in Sydney.  

Her month long cruise has come to an end.   She is an incredible photographer and puts me to shame.     

 

She just posted a comparison of E an S class from her perspective...   She is so organized thought I would steal it and come back and compare later.   

 

So far I do have to agree with the Pros and Cons -   So many of the Pros I seem to have forgotten about.   Like Anthony pointed out some of the Pros to one passenger may be a Con to another ---- e.g. if one were not in a suite the lack of forward looking space is a big Con while those in suites consider it a Pro. 

 

Take some time and have a read of her review.   She is so organized...  not like me that rambles and all over the place.

 

 

Shoreside Concierge - This can be summed up in one word, FAIL.  I am not certain why Celebrity sends out the emails and/or calls asking for your requests.  I filled it out for both our cruises and not one of the requests was met.  Special event - Ignored. Extra Hangers - Nope.  We finally received a handful of wire hangers. Choice of wine - Nope. Additionally, I requested a mattress topper - Nope.  The cabin attendant did bring one upon request.  Thermostat - Seems silly as you can adjust on your own.

 

E Class

 

- Pros - Magic Carpet as a tender platform

           - Retreat Sun Deck

           - Walking track

           - Eden (all the old creepy aspects are gone!)

           - Sky Suite bathrooms

           - High ceilings in Oceanview Cafe

           - Motion activated touchless doors in public areas

           - Clean contemporary decor.  Some of the  

             uncomfortable Hoppen seating has been

             replaced.

 

- Cons - No open atrium

            - Tends to be priced higher than M and S Class

              voyages

            - Higher number of suites

            - Slow tendering and disembarkation in ports of

              call

            - No views in Martini Bar and The Club Bar

            - IV Verandahs.  Not to our liking.  More like a

              panoramic oceanview.

            - Undisclosed noise issues in many cabins in

              rough seas.

            - Lack of shade outside

            - Lack for forward view public spaces. No

              forward view lounge.  No forward view except

              for Retreat Sundeck, Thermal Spa Sundeck,        
              and the gym 🏋️‍.

            - Lack of overhead space heaters and protection

              from rain in outdoor bars and restaurants.

Interesting..  Our list  of pros and cons  for E Class would be much different..

 

We have only been in RETREAT  for a short cruise on BEYOND ( for us Retreat is over rated in several ways).  We  have been doing E Class for awhile and see many positives.  Recently however,    there are  a few negs including  the recently disclosed creaky cabins;  the louder pool music on ASCENT with  a party vibe;   and added sports/ games all.over the ship where there used to be calm areas for reading and relaxing. 

 

B/c of the creaky cabin issue we will be trying Silhouette after many yrs   and would then be able to compare.

 

In general, we think each cruise has its own vibe so  only general comparisons can be made about the physical set up and public spaces.

 

 

Edited April 20 by hcat

[kwokpot]

14 minutes ago, hcat said:

Interesting..  Our list  of pros and cons  for E Class would be much different..

 

We have only been in RETREAT  for a short cruise on BEYOND ( for us Retreat is over rated in several ways).  We  have been doing E Class for awhile and see many positives.  Recently however,    there are  a few negs including  the recently disclosed creaky cabins;  the louder pool music on ASCENT with  a party vibe;   and added sports/ games all.over the ship where there used to be calm areas for reading and relaxing. 

 

B/c of the creaky cabin issue we will be trying Silhouette after many yrs   and would then be able to compare.

 

In general, we think each cruise has its own vibe so  only general comparisons can be made about the physical set up and public spaces.

 

 

I agree the Ascent had a much more active atmosphere and it seems there was a conscious effort to enhance activities and music, especially at night where there was live music in multiple venues simultaneously. That was unheard of on a Celebrity ship ten years ago.

[goofysmom99]

5 hours ago, kwokpot said:

We were on the Solstice last February and then the Apex last July and Ascent this past February. While none of our cruises were in Retreat I can honestly say of the three recent Celebrity cruises the Solstice out of LA for the Mexican Riviera itinerary was our least favorite with regards to the cruise ship experience. On the Solstice there wasn't lobster served on either Chic Night.

That pretty much follows X's fleet-wide menu quality cuts last year, and their reinstatement this year (and other cuts/returns as well).  I noticed a big difference between cruises this past November and last month.

[kwokpot]

1 minute ago, goofysmom99 said:

That pretty much follows X's fleet-wide menu quality cuts last year, and their reinstatement this year (and other cuts/returns as well).  I noticed a big difference between cruises this past November and last month.

Exactly. I was going to follow-up with a post alluding to the fact that my Solstice cruise was during that few months of cutbacks in the MDR and at the Oceanview buffet ( remember all that anger at  the dinner buffet cutbacks ?). 

[haynesra]

One thing I really like about Celebrity is the Beyond the Podium series. Seeing your dailies posted for Sea days they had multiple presentations each day. Here's hoping that the Edge has as many as Solstice have had on your cruise.