Why A Premium Cruise Line: A LOT of Little details and 2 BIG Items Set Celebrity Cruise Line Apart

[@gailgohrick5836]

We have sailed Celebrity only once, would love to go again - thank you for the reminder. I loved the fresh flowers and the elegant public restrooms. Everything was just a step above, and very welcoming! Enjoy!!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

The small things really do make a big difference! Hope you have been doing well Gail!

[@travelingwithrebecca]

I know this is such a small thing but I just love the cloth hand towels in the public bathrooms! So glad you are enjoying the Infinity! I love Celebrity's M Class ships.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@Same. Not everyone in the comments shares our appreciation for the cloth hand towels but I cannot stand the high-speed air dryers and hate using all the paper when on a cruise admiring the ocean and nature!

[@brentshuffler1234]

Traveling with Rebecca, yes, that is a very nice gesture. I have seen that with Holland America also. A touch of class.

[@mariedoucet2371]

Just completed booking for a February Apex cruise. I’ve cruised Celebrity before and excited to return. Thanks for reminding me of what makes Celebrity special.

[@edwardh8853]

Hi Brandon, I’m going on my 10th cruise with Celebrity this month. The small things add up to make for a wonderful experience. That extra something goes a long way to make everyone feel special. The Millennium class ships are my favorite. Happy travels 🚢😎

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thanks Edward!! So far, it is my only Celebrity Class but will be a tough one to knock out of first place.

[@wandamotsko7263]

We have been on 30+ cruises. Royal Caribbean was always our cruise line of choice until we took our first Celebrity cruise 10 years ago. Now we only cruise with Celebrity. So glad you are enjoying your cruise.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thanks Wanda and I might be moving in a similar direction!

[@TheGoodLife88]

I'm really excited to try a Celebrity Cruise one day! I do like the finer things in life & top 40 isn't always on my playlist. Thank you for this in depth comparison.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Always my pleasure!

[@erikh9991]

Thank you for reminding me why I love Celebrity. The ratio of crew to passengers is 2:1 so they can take the time. They have 4 classes of which 3 are premium classes. Aqua class is usually for 2 people so I cannot stay in that class as I travel with 3. We use the Concierge Class. The chocolate I save until I get home to keep me dreaming about the cruise.

[@wondrafuladventures]

Celebrity food is hands down the best food of the 5 different lines I have been on, even dinner at the Buffet was great.

[@mysolotravelworld]

Celebrity is my cruise line of choice. Having solo balcony cabins and Aqua Class when I can get a solo deal is so worth it! I’ve been on Royal Caribbean (parent company of Celebrity), NCL, and Holland American and Celebrity is the best hands down!

[@martinejoseph5266]

Hello. Happy New Year. I sailed on Celebrity in Nov 2021 and loved it. I felt spoiled all along my 12 nights cruise. I am glad you are enjoying your voyage 💜

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Martine, long time!!! Hope you have been doing well!

[@martinejoseph5266]

@@TheWeekendCruiser The holidays have been busy but I am doing good. Thank you for asking Brandon 😃😘

[@traceymarshall5886]

Virgin voyages has free $600 bar tab at the moment and 30% off solo travelers atm for every cruise booked (7 days or more...free $300 bar tab for 6 day less cruises). Plus you can still get deep blue benefits - $100 bar tab, $10 daily coffee tab, priority boarding, champagne sail away on another day (in addition to the 1st champagne sail away); free bag of laundry; free item dry cleaned....Im sure ive forgotten something 😂😂

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha, Tracey, you are stealing my video ideas!!! haha I literally just booked Virgin Voyages yesterday for a February sailing. Did not see the bar tap but submitted my status match for their Sea-Rover program and already been accepted with all those benefits! Though, when pricing online, it always says $300 per person or something very low and then when I get to check out it miraculously jumps to $1,300 or more. 😂

[@traceymarshall5886]

@@TheWeekendCruiser you should check you "addons" in the virgin app for the cruise you just booked and if its less than 6 days it is a $300 bar tab (i dont know how it works for solo travel as it says per cabin...maybe they will give you $150 dollar for the dreamy getaway package/best package ever promo) plus you might get $200 sailor loot for red hot booking months (that promo might have ended 31st dec) plus the $100 bar tab for sea rover status / deep blue extras 🤗

[@traceymarshall5886]

@@TheWeekendCruiser obviously the lowest value is for insider solo cabin...the big jump might be for a sea terrace? The solo people i know who got a great deal were in the insider cabins. Off course the Apr 2023 Miami to Barcelona on valiant lady which we are booked is $64 per night per person...similar for solo insider person. Such great value

[@traceymarshall5886]

@@TheWeekendCruiser we also got $600 sailor loot for our next cruise per cabin for booking a my next virgin voyage onboard (they might give $300 for solo travel)

[@traceymarshall5886]

@@TheWeekendCruiser sorry to add again...anyway it works out we have $1700 sailor loot/bar tabs to spend oboard for each of our 3 virgin voyages (TA valiant lady April; resilient adriatic and then Athens to Dubai oct 2023) book for this year due to great promos - in addition to the 60% off 2nd sailor promo booking 😱😱😱😄😄 😲😯 Such good value

[@OnboardwithJonathan]

Celebrity typically has a ratio of 1 crew member for every 2 guests. The millennium class will have 980-999 crew members much more then a similar Royal Caribbean ship.

[@gatorickc1274]

Sailed on Reflection in Nov 2021, our first post-pandemic cruise. There were 1370 guests and 1371 crew! The Captain said everyone had a crew member and he was going to have to drive the ship by himself. LOL

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

It was very noticeable that the ratio was different than what I used too. It made a HUGE difference in my level of satisfcation.

[@dorothybepler7738]

My first cruise is February 2024 on the Infinity! I am so excited and love seeing and hearing these wonderful comments!❤ Looking forward to my adventure.. Flying from NJ to Athens, continuing on to Israel, Egypt, Turkey then back to Athens.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That sounds like an AMAZING cruise!!! can I go with you?!?!?

[@dorothybepler7738]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Meet ya there! 😁

[@johnturner1431]

I remember when all of them (RCCL, Princess, Carnival) would leave chocolates on your pillow. As stated, those little chocolates can't possibly cost them an overabundance of money but what a great way to make us feel special at turn down when they did. Unfortunately I think the events of the last few years have given them excuses to cut too many corners. Thanks for the Celebrity review!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I think you're right John. Not sure when those cuts are going to end!

[@juanitafurtado8805]

After 5 Celebrity Cruises with my lusband who was disabled (Celebrity crew was so caring) I went back on RCCLOvation of the Sea.s. I loved the ship & my cabin was great. I had good service from crew. No complaints at all but it was Alaska & i missed the enrichment lectures we had on Celebrity. The little touches really make a good experience even better. I will go back on Ovation because it is an awesome ship but I will also got back to Celebrity for the quality experience. btw, pricing is very simillar.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Pricing is certainly more similar than one would think! Know this might change one day but for right now, let's take advantage!

[@BarbByArt]

Hi Brandon! 🤩YES on your appraisal of Celebrity! Actually last June, I sailed SIDE 2Side - from SYMPHONY OtS to Celebrity INFINITY‼️ loved the daily flowers& many gifts! And Yes the FOOD 🥰🥳 When I encountered the Maitrè D in the Buffet, I told him that going from a Mega Ship to Infinity-?! HIS buffet just Blew the Mega’s literally -Out of the Water!! And just yestrday I booked my 2nd Celebrity sailing !❤ SOLSTICE to Alaska! Cannot Wait! Love your vlogs & hope to see you aboard again !!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you as always Barb for your support!! That must have been a culture shock but what a great comparison going from one to the next!

[@ericericson3535]

. Hi, I just discovered your vlog! I sold Celebrity Cruises as a travel agent for eleven years. Every once in a while, I would have a client whose first cruise was Celebrity. I told them that after that cruise they would not be able to cruise another line ever. They would return and say I was so right. Love your honest and insightful reviews.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

hahah that is excellent Eric! It is definitly a step above what I was used to! Just wish they had more weekend sailings!

[@WoodByWright]

Very cool! Thanks for the heads up on it man. Looking forward to cruiseing with you again some time.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Definitly worth it over on Celebrity! Yes, would love to sail again! Any weekend cruises coming up?

[@CanadaGirlParis]

Just got back from a Royal Caribbean cruise over Christmas. We always had music on the dock, and when we got back we too had a tent set up with cool wet towels and flavoured water.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Clearly, I am going on the wrong Royal Caribbean sailings! What ship and sailing was this?

[@CanadaGirlParis]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Rhapsody of The Seas out of Barbados to Trinidad, Tobago, St. Vincent, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Dominica and Grenada.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@CanadaGirlParis Very nice! Sounds like a great itinerary! I think this "perk" must depend on the ports or type of sailing. This sounds like a great one.

[@daviddyer7149]

I was on Infinity over Thanksgiving and the crew was so great. By the second day, most of the staff like bartenders and pool runners knew my name and what I wanted to drink. The cold hand towels while you are at the pool during the day was heaven!!

[@ranellmueller2972]

Ahhh, I had no idea this was your first cruise with Celebrity! I'm so happy you enjoyed it. Aren't they fabulous! You'll just die when you try the Edge class ships! I love all their ships, but the Edge class is other-wordly. Your mind will be blown when you cruise on one of those ships, but all of Celebrity's ships, staff, little details and food are what makes it superb. Happy day!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I can't wait Ranell! Just booked Celebrity Edge for Christmas 2024!! Will be on her in no time! 😂

[@benjaminsmith2287]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Please compare the public spaces for variety and go beyond the newness of the Edge. IMO, they've deleted way too many nice spaces. I'm not a fan of the Edge ships. But, please enjoy whatever they have to offer.

[@royerskine2774]

Hello Brandon, enjoy your updates, we are RC Crown and Anchor Diamond and have been loyal to RC over the years. We have always been curious about the differences between RC and Celebrity and took the 3 day trip on Millenium sailing on 1/3 to experience the Celebrity product, and as you mention in this video we were impressed with the upgraded amenities, and overall service on board.Our room was immaculate and well appointed and The Chocolates on the pillow bring back memories of Cruises back when....we were overall impressed with the cleanliness and attention to detail, overserving constant cleaning of public areas, banisters and elevators. Unfortunately, there were some passengers as always that forgot their manners, but you find this on all ships. There were several times where we encountered other passengers that were obviously sick with colds, on elevators and other public spaces, running noses and obvious coughs. Coming home partner became ill, and 2nd day home tested positive for covid. We are both vaccinated and boosted. Those passengers who are not honest when filling out their health questionnaires continue to be a problem. Enjoy your channel!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thanks Roy and greatly appreciated! Will hopefully be doing a video on Royal's reciprocal agreement with Celebrity soon!

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

What a great cruise line and ship to be on for the duration of your South American cruise!

[@jenniferleider156]

Royal Caribbean had offered the flavored water when in ports 2018-2020. That was great, I wish they would bring that back!!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Since making this video, I have seen RCL ships do it for certain sailings. I don't know if the HD controls or its based on sailing but my short little cruises never have any :-(

[@dancooper41]

Glad you’re enjoying your Celebrity cruise, Brandon. Celebrity has long been my favorite cruise line, but Virgin Voyages is now giving them a run for their money. Will cruise RCCL if the pricing is extremely good and it’s not during school holidays.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I will agree with that statement! I actually have a 4 night Celebrity sailing and a 4 Night Virgin Voyages sailing on back to back weekends! Would be neat to compare the two as they are more similar to each other than RCL is.

[@davidwinter1487]

Royal Caribbean does the Hand towels and Water when you are getting on some of the places in the Caribbean. When I was in St Thomas, St Lucia, and some of the other ports... But love watching the video. (Explorer of the Seas last year sailing 7 nights out of San Juan) Allure did not though when I sailed with them in October.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

It's always interesting to me the variability with Royal Caribbean from ship to ship. This is one place I am seeing it amongst many others. Hard to talk about a cruise line when the answer is "it depends on the ship".

[@joangroothuis4031]

Going on a Celebrity cruise in August. Thank you for important information.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

My pleasure Joan! Hope you have a blast!

[@gbb0131]

Cafe Al Baccio is one of my favorite places on Celebrity Ships. Also the home made ice creams are amazing.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Yes and Yes!!! I was not a huge fan of the one time I had gelato but the ice cream... oh, the Ice Cream!!

[@jobee1]

I have a cruise in March on the Apex in a Sunset Sky Suite/retreat. Can’t wait.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

She's a good ship! Have a blast!

[@chuckleavitt4309]

Hi from Lauderdale… Wow what a great review! 🎉 Have we kidnapped you over to Celebrity! I only cruise them Retreat status.. EVERYTHING is better on Celebrity, even the older ships that maybe a bit quirky but just beautiful! Glad your having a wonderful time!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha I am being pulled in a lot of directions right now Chuck but I will certainly be back on Celebrity and soon hopefully! Just need them to start doing more weekend sailings!

[@FABRCTR]

Seriously got excited over a cloth towel and a piece of chocolate...

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

100%!!

[@dionline88]

Bravo!! As I've said before, we love Celebrity! Believe it or not, we've never eaten in the main dining rooms. Hubby is a "Buffet 3 times a day" kind of guy and I'm fine with that. The food there is really good, as you said in this video! I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything. While we've never stayed in the Aqua Class, we were in Concierge for several of our cruises. Those mid-day snacks were always lost on us. I don't think we stray far from what we're comfortable with so if we're ever on the same cruise, you can have ours!! I hope you enjoy the rest of your cruise and you'll have to let us know... did you book your next Celebrity cruise while you were on board?? We get some good deals when you book while you're there!! Enjoy yourselves!!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha, love it and I would agree! The food in Ocean View Buffett was MUCH better than I was used to or expecting. I did book another Celebrity Sailing. Celebrity Edge for Christmas 2024!!! Will be here in no time! 😂

[@billybob7088]

The entire week on RC OoS this past Dec they had southern dirt rock playing all week

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Well, that is a different music option. Was it a charter?

[@billybob7088]

@@TheWeekendCruiser It had to be based on the crowd on the ship

[@benjaminsmith2287]

Holland America is also a premium cruise line and people say Virgin may be as well. I think these are actually premium mass market as they have a good amount of people onboard large ships but don't have all of the family stuff of the more mainstream lines. There are a lot of similarities though. I must say I don't love the new Celebrity. I liked the older Celebrity up to the early 2000s. I love the Solstice class ships and think the Edge ships aren't true Celebrity experiences but semi-Celebrity. Others think Celebrity are updating but I think they're changing to classes of cruisers onboard and nickel and diming and cutting back on their famous great food and entertainment while the onboard style is noisier and trendier. I hope they chill with the retreat passengers take some parts of the regular passenger spaces and bring back a lot of the nice spaces from the Solstice classes they deleted in the Edge class and also the style of the Solstice class vs. the Edge class. We'll see in what follows the Edge class but I don't trust Celebrity's CEO. If you don't have a long history with Celebrity you don't see how much they're changing. Holland America so far is more evolutionary and I like their product. Princess is also evolutionary and there is a consistency to their product as well. But they're getting into classes too. Funny thing is NCL does the class thing with their "Haven."

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Everyone tells me I would love Holland! Have not researched them but would love it if they did shorter cruises so i could give it a try!

[@PL-mu1cp]

I thought you would like it even though you're on one of the older smaller ships. I had been on the Infinity, that was my first Celebrity cruise. On one Transatlantic Celebrity cruise they had a guest lecture series of the rise and fall of German U-boats in WWII given by a retired WWII British Navy Commander, it was great. Make sure to hit Dinner buffet early if they have Sushi out.

[@petitecherie501]

This is precusely what I needed to make a chiice. We cruused quite a bit in the 80s and 90s mostly on RCCL & HAL. Celebrity sounds like a good place to start back to cruising. Thanks!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Petite, my pleasure and you will have to let us know what you think! Welcome back to cruising!

[@seemoreseascruises3791]

Love this one! It goes to our other conversation regarding the All Included. Yes, you found it! We are all in for Celebrity but still love Royal! So happy to see that you have experienced the Celebrity perks. Blu is really great and can't wait to see you on Solstice Class and Edge Class! Great Video! I feel that you captured the vibe from Celebrity that we found as well and keeps us coming back.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you!! Definitly excited for my next cruise with Celebrity!

[@markt9805]

Glad u r tying Celebrity but I would suggest u try Princess. I’ve been on many cruises including both Princess and Celebrity. To me Princess is a step above Royal Caribbean but not quite up to Celebrity’s level. Given that u have traveled on Royal Caribbean so many times I think you would enjoy it.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Mark! I have heard this from others as well! People who like Princess, really like Princess! It is on my list of lines to try but have not been able to figure it out just yet!

[@TerceroJorge]

Is the extra mile that makes you smile 😃

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I've never heard this before but I like it!

[@DWN6172]

Love the more bespoke service of Celebrity over any of the other lines, premium included. One day I would like to try the ultra lux category.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Take me with you!!!! If I only went on one cruise a year, I could pull it off but I would be miserable the rest of the year 😂

[@melvinjacobs2328]

Just was on the Beyond, which blows all the ships I've been on. Celebrity is our go to line, even though we have a cruise on the Harmony in May.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I have heard that the Beyond is something else and is an amazing ship! It is getting an amazing reputation!

[@judis4900]

I definitely want to try Celebrity. Loved this video. I think I was impressed more with all the little things.

[@NavigateWith]

Great video. We just switched our next cruise from Royal to Celebrity as we needed a break from Royal. Sounds like you had a good time!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I can certainly relate to needing a break. Hope you have a blast!

[@bradl.4462]

Thanks for sharing the perspective you have found and comparing Celebrity with Royal Caribbean. We have been loyal to Royal until now, but you just sealed the deal for us. I was waiting to hear about your impressions of the difference in food, as we had already been looking at a first Celebrity cruise. I am getting on Vision of the Seas in 2 days for a 10 night. But, thanks to this video, I think my next sailing will likely be on Celebrity later this year!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That's awesome Brad and if you haven't tried them, I would definitly recommend it just to see what you think! You can always book your next Celebrity sailing on Vision's Next Cruise desk and still get the on-board credits!

[@williamwalsh3882]

Hi Brandon, thank you. My wife and I have been thinking about trying a Celebrity cruise and this is very helpful. Enjoy the new year my friend.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That's awesome William! I would certainly consider it and if you have been with Royal Caribbean, it will still feel a bit like home.

[@Gladacya]

Great content Brandon.! Thanks for sharing..!

[@denisehayes6730]

There is a ginormous difference in clientele.

[@WiredForFlight]

I have a Royal sailing coming up in March and this is my first Royal sailing since the Covid restart. I have sailed on Celebrity two times since then and I’m worried that it will feel like a big step down. I’m still looking forward to it but I think I’m looking forward to my Celebrity Alaska sailing more for the reasons you mentioned.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Keep an open mind and always remember you are on vacation! Depending on your ship and sailing, it could feel a bit stepped down but we still control our happiness :-)

[@The_NancyDee]

I loved this review! I'm so glad that the saddest ship in Celebrity's fleet, the Infinity, has not disappointed you! I actually (don't) like how good the sweets are onboard, particularly the ice cream! 😉 So hard to keep the calories down! I can't wait to catch up with you soon and compare notes!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I am very glad I did it justice! I truly did enjoy my time on Infinity! Yes! We have to compare schedules to see where each other is this year! I miss my Nancy time!

[@joelcafeolai6201]

Hi Brandon, I just love Celebrity Cruises and particularly BLU restaurant !! I must say , I watched a lot of your videos and never understood why you are sticking with Royal, Royal is nice if you are a party animal , however , I prefer by far Celebrity Cruises.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Joel, great question! The main reason right now is because they offer the best weekend cruise! Unfortunately, I am not retired yet and still need to work. I am definitly looking to more Celebrity and Virgin sailings to fill in the gaps for my longer sailings these days. :-)

[@benjaminsmith2287]

Royal Caribbean has lots of spots aboard for different types of cruisers. More than Celebrity. While Celebrity is more premium in some ways they're more limited and I'm sorry, especially on the Edge class ships. Like, you can go aboard an Oasis ship and hang out in the Music Hall, Central Park area, a dedicated Karaoke space, Bolero's club, and there are no areas like that on the Edge class ships. And the Quantum ships have a better execution of the Eden idea that Celebrity seemed to have been inspired by. The space actually works better for live shows. All in all, Celebrity is more premium but RCI have their attributes as well.

[@brenttuckertravel3859]

Hey Brandon, thank you for sharing all the differences. It is all the little things that add up to a big difference. Good food is definitely a draw for me. How did Blu compare to the Coastal Kitchen?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That's an interesting question Brent and I have not thought about it. To me, Blu was more creative and offered more exotic items like qual eggs, pheasant, lots of duck options. I would say I like the food at Blu better but I appreciate the ambiance of Coastal Kitchen Better. Blu feels like an extension of the Main Dinning Room where Coastal Kitchen has a totally different look and feel.

[@brenttuckertravel3859]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Thank you.

[@benjaminsmith2287]

I'm sorry to say food is variable. If you read HAL and Princess and Celebrity reviews the line doesn't always deliver better food than other lines. The service is mostly a bit more attentive and premium in style but the food varies from sailing to sailing. So, hopefully the lines execute on the food on your sailing. But some are very disappointed in the food sometimes on premium ships. Blu is only for Aqua class and hopefully they deliver. Sometimes even in the specialty dining venues the food doesn't always deliver.

[@dara_the_cruisingcatlady]

Brandon, can you do a video on what "perks" you got as a Pinnacle member on Celebrity? And if you know what a Diamond level member would get on Celebrity? Tiers for Celebrity being Elite, Elite Plus and Zenith

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I sure can and it is already scripted! This has by far been the most requested video and will look to have it go live next week. Woot!

[@AC-lz1zv]

Love your analysis!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you!

[@rogieherman6202]

Try one of their Edge Class Ship next...your love affair will continue with Clebrity

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I have heard this!! Though, I am not a big ship guy normally but friends swear by the Beyond!

[@benjaminsmith2287]

@@TheWeekendCruiser They're not that much bigger than Solstice. I would have done Solstice then Edge to see the progression. While there is a clear evolution from Millennium to Solstice, Edge is a departure in many ways. The Edge ships are bigger but offer less in some ways than Solstice and even Millennium. But they offer more suite perks and more restaurants and more tech.

[@shayj5124]

I remember when Royal placed chocolates on your pillow. The good ole days.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha you are reaching WAY back into the vault for that one! Definitly the good ole days!

[@Seamus425]

I'm glad you like your Celebrity cruise, but the little details you pointed out as the 'main difference' between Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are certainly not enough for us to change our minds about cruising RCCL. We love the food choices on RCCL, the courteousness and friendliness of the staff, the activities, the ports, etc. I just don't think the extra money for Celebrity is worth guest restroom decor, a little piece of chocolate on your bed, etc. I think the major difference is the number of families on either ship. Celebrity doesn't seem to cater to 'families' and activities - but like you said 'lectures'. And to each their own! One day, I would suspect we will be on a Celebrity ship, but not when we still want the activities and excitement of an RCCL cruise. We are looking forward to cruising the ICON in 2024.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Romona and totally get it! This is one of the reasons I am so glad there are choices in cruise line for us to choose! We all have our own cruising style and Royal Caribbean is certainly not a poor experience! It is still my cruise line of choice....most days 😉

[@henrycrews4998]

Thanks Brandon, took your advice I'm going Solo in Feb and probably Oct. Should hit diamond in 2024 then will try celebrity. Wish I was near Florida to join your weekend group cruise.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

We will get you on the next one Henry! Hoping to have many more opportunities for people to cruise! Congrats on biting the bullet and going on a solo cruise! You are going to love it and book many more!

[@deweyski]

I have always been a fan of Celebrity and could not agree with you more on this video. I am looking forward to seeing what their short cruises are like when I get on the Celebrity Summit for a 4 day cruise February 2-6

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha you are reading my mind! I have one booked in February and looking forward to more of the 4 days out of Miami!

[@deweyski]

@@TheWeekendCruiser I am on the Summit February 2

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@deweyski I will see you there! That's the one!

[@deweyski]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Excellent!!

[@kouklakee]

I love Celebrity but I do like their newer ships . How can anyone not like Celebrity it’s owned by RCL and nobody does cruising better ! Thanks for your feedback!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I'll get to one of the newer ones soon! Just booked Celebrity Edge for Christmas 2024! 😂

[@kouklakee]

@@TheWeekendCruiser yippee

[@nancyp2992]

Holland has cloth wash cloths in public rest rooms. And canned water.

[@nancyp2992]

Holland also has water and towels outside ship

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Very nice!

[@Сашынкя]

Love the video!!!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha thank you! Definitly had some fun with it!

[@kathryncashner3294]

It honestly isn't fair to compare Aqua Class on Celebrity to the "normal people" class. You get to eat in Blu, and while I've never cruised Aqua class, I'd guess the food is better there. You also get cabin perks that are not part of the general Celebrity experience. I do agree that Celebrity had the best buffet food of any line we were on. THey also had a lunch spot which focused on healthy food and among other things served great fresh grilled salmon--grilled while you stood and waited. They had an amazing little pastry and snack place...best almond croissants I've ever had. On our cruise, the ice cream station had VERY limited hours and generally interfered with the end of the evening show. The "around the ship" entertainment was better, and the variety acts in the theatre were on the level of Disney. Prior to your video, I didn't realize that the lines we typically sail are "premium" lines. I didn't realize that many of the "little things" you mentioned were unusual as I'd experienced them on most lines. I would consider Celebrity to be a nicer line than Princess, and certainly different from Disney. We've cruised in a low end suite on Princess, and while I could name a lot of little things that were better than a regular room (upgraded toiletries in individual containers, for instance) I didn't consider it all that great...and certainly a regular cabin on Princess wasn't anything special. There were things on Celebrity that were not all that great. For instance, my travel companion drinks Diet Coke and had the unlimited package on Celebrity. However, in the MDR. the servers would pour from the can into a SMALL glass. They refused to leave the rest of the can, and it took a very long time to get a refill. She was NOT happy. Bottom line, good comparison. However, based on your review here, I am far less likely to try any of the lines that you listed as "not premium." In fairness, my last Celebrity cruise was before Covid, so my comparison may not be up to date.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Kathryn! Your last comment is interesting to me. I met several folks on Celebrity who talked about changes post re-start that they were not a fan of and I feel like the same can be said for every cruise line. The cruise line industry as a whole seems to be shifting and each line is figuring out a new-way forward post-covid.

[@crystalmorgan5237]

I love your vlogs. Based on this and the Virgin Voyages vlogs, I think you would enjoy Disney Cruise Line. Do you plan on cruising with them in the future?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Crystal, surprisingly, Disney was one of the first cruises I did YEARS ago and well before a vlog! They also have 3 night cruises out of Port Canaveral I could pull off but the prices of Disney recently have been prohibited for my cruising budget. It is certainly an amazing experience and is a premium cruise line as well!

[@sandipointon9867]

Wait till you try the Edge class - if you are already impressed be prepared to be wowed!!!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

hahaha, I have seen this a lot in the comments! So I went ahead and booked Celebrity Edge for Christmas 2024!

[@sandipointon9867]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Great plan - i've only done Apex so far but was so impressed by a 5 night Carib. that we booked a TA!!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@sandipointon9867 Well done!

[@tedcoates402]

Very interesting show and I agree RC's food isn't hat it once was and their great crews have to work too hard to be friendly. Please check out Celebrety's modestly priced cabins. How much of what you are liking is becaue you have a really deluxe room? Wish I was theer!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Ted, I tried to call out the items that came with the Aqua Class but the other tiers would have been just as fine. I will be in a traditional room in February and can report back! Also, thinking about making a video on "is the aqua class worth it".

[@tedcoates402]

@@TheWeekendCruiser You explained nicely when something was the result od Aqua class but it will be interesting to hear about "standard" class. Does Celebrity have programs to accept RC C&A?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@tedcoates402 They sure do! Stay tuned for that video very soon!

[@brentshuffler1234]

So....a 12-night cruise! After years of weekend cruises, was this finally your real vacation?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha I do get to do a few longer sailings in there as work allows. This year, sticking more to land international trips and weekend cruises. This was my longest cruise though!

[@MaryAnn-is8ku]

We thought the food on Celebrity was generally better EXCEPT for the steaks. The ones in the main dining room were very thin and Aways overcooked. The steaks in thee specialty dining were very good but the main dining room steaks were almost inedible. We were concierge and not Blu or Suite so perhaps they are better there.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

We had the steak from both Blu and the Main Dinning Room and would agree with your statement. It wasn't always done to our liking. It wasn't a bad steak but it could have been better. I also find steaks have a LOT of variability on the ship and who the chef is.

[@sylviat8461]

How was the reciprocation with your Royal status with Celebrity?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Great question! Video coming soon!

[@floridaman2214]

Celebrity should send a case of that canned water to Virgin Voyages. 😛

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

hahahaha

[@steveee2511]

i have been last year on Holland America these year im consedering celebrity is it similar tier.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Yes, they are in a similiar tier on the quality you can expect. Biggest difference will be how they deliver their experiences as they take two VERY different approaches but both have a solid product.

[@steveee2511]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Thanks

[@PamBredenkamp]

Do sailings on Celebrity count toward my RC points?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Pam, will be making a video on the reciprocal benefits that will post soon hopefully. To answer your question, the points you earn will count towards the loyalty of the cruise line you are sailing on only.

[@dinodesantis2976]

Thanks for showing the differences. Celebrity is a good cruise line to take for the higher level of service.

[@billdeibner7105]

12 days with a lot of sea days is a different experience

[@donnamanitu8673]

I am very interested in booking Celebrity as we have never cruised with them. I have a daily max of $150 day for a balcony for each of us. I have done several mock bookings with Celebrity and I just can't get below $200 a day for each of us. Is that the going rate that we have to pay or what tips does anyone have they are willing to share ?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Donna, no amazing price tips other than work with a good travel agent. Otherwise, look towards off-peak times and sailings others might not be doing. I find December outside of holidays and September is cheaper to cruise.

[@leonardocastelaoalvarez9958]

Hi Brandon, just wondering which ship are you on?

[@diegofernandezmolero3414]

He is on Celebrity Infinity.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Leonardo! Was on the Holiday sailing on Celebrity Infinity cruising from Buenos Aires to Santiago. Just got back yesterday!

[@diegofernandezmolero3414]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Glad you have enjoyed your trip! I'm from Buenos Aires. I will be sailing on the same ship in february. I hope you will have a nice time in Buenos Aires!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@diegofernandezmolero3414 It was an amazing time!!! I was there for the World Cup!!

[@diegofernandezmolero3414]

@@TheWeekendCruiser wow! I'm so glad you have enjoyed such an experience! An hostorical day, not only for the cup but also for the number of people celebrating on the streets! Good to know you take nice memories with you !

[@laurieb1127]

Sorry, not ALL celebrity ships are the same. Imo, its not a premium cruise line. I've been on the older ships and the newer edge. Their status matching to RC, socks. I'm diamond plus on RC

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Laurie, that is very true that no two ships are created equal! This was definitly my feedback from one Celebrity ship but I could clearly see how it was a step up from Royal Caribbean that I am traditionally sailing. Curious, who do you consider a premium cruise line?

[@deanpatmor6991]

You’ve just described Royal Caribbean of the past before decades of eroded services and benefits.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That's a shame but the line has certainly changed and continues to change. :-(

[@ELDO84]

what was the demographic? I want a younger crowd (under 40) but not the Carnival party atmosphere.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

This probably isn't a good cruise to judge Celebrity by. As it was a Christmas sailing, there were 300 kids with parents and grand parents, so the age demographic was much younger. Though, I have the average age is in the 50s for most Celebrity sailings.

[@floridaman2214]

Hate Royal Caribbean's music. Worn out music from the 80s and 90s.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

100%

[@benjaminsmith2287]

I don't subscribe to this. There is great music and bad music of all eras. Music should be varied and different and sometimes current but music from any era is great and for some people, it evokes memories from special times in their lives. Just keep it varied for different types of people and things are fine. Also, different spaces onboard can cater to different tastes. ON HAL you have a Music Walk featuring 3 different venues. One is a rock club, one s duel piano piano bar, and the other is a blues, R&B jazz club and they play music of different eras.