After an incredible 10 nights onboard Celebrity Constellation we couldn’t wait to share our experience of ‘Connie’. After sailing on Celebrity Beyond for the previous two summers we were slightly apprehensive about boarding an older Celebrity Cruises ship, however as soon as we approached the ship and boarded all our fears were allayed.
Even though she was first launched in 2002, Constellation has recently undergone a refurbishment and still offers the Celebrity venues we’ve become accustomed to such as the Sunset Bar and Oceanview Café.
First up, lets talk boarding
After spending a couple of amazing days in Venice prior to our cruise it was time to head down to Ravenna. Just a heads up, if you fly into Venice to board a cruise then the transfer is around 2 hours 30 minutes. Whilst at our time of boarding the port isn’t fully developed, the check-in process was as seamless as going through any major port and after the usual checks we were through and making our way to the ship.
Top tip: Complete your check-in on the Celebrity App to speed up your check-in and get onboard asap.
Stateroom: Oceanview
This time we selected an Oceanview Stateroom and whilst slightly dated in decor, the cabin was immaculate and provided a nice place to relax after a busy day exploring the ports on this fantastic itinerary. We were allocated a cabin on deck 2 aft; the cabin was right next to the lifts and in an excellent location. We were concerned initially about the possibility of noise but didn’t hear a thing during our 10 night stay, including when docking.
Main dining: San Marco
It was nice to return to a ship with a single main dining room, even though the 4 restaurant concept is great on the Edge Class ships, we found a table with an excellent head waiter, assistant waiter and sommelier. The menu throughout our stay was varied and there really was something for everyone. We like that on Celebrity they will always offer ‘classic’ dishes but also choices from around the world, including additional specials. One thing is for sure, you will not go hungry and the standard remains high in both service and quality. If you’re lucky your waiter will offer additional courses; some nights we had our mains replaced with starters!
Favourite bar: Martini Bar
The ‘heart of the ship’, as described by the hard working team and they weren’t wrong. From opening until close, the martinis were flying out and even though there was an official show at 8pm each night, the team would always be up to something to entertain and delight us all. Once the whistles start to be blown, you know something is about to happen. Expect the unexpected!
Big miss: Le Petit Chef
As a speciality restaurant this experience was a big disappointment unfortunately. Whilst the concept is fun with the projections onto the table of the petit chef preparing your meal, we didn’t feel the food met the usual high standards of an up-charge experience. Perhaps the menu didn’t help but we won’t rush back to this experience next time we sail with Celebrity Cruises.
Disembarking from this blog…
Would we sail on Celebrity Constellation again? Absolutely! Even though she’s an older ship you can still expect the same fine food, service and wide ranging entertainment from the pool deck all the way to the theatre you’d expect from Celebrity. There’s a certain charm about the Infinity class ships that isn’t replicated on the modern day liner.
For The Love Of Cruise 