We have just returned from a two week vacation like none other. Two days in Amsterdam and 12 days on-board Celebrity Constellation touring the Baltic. We were told to pack for wet, cold weather - but we lucked out and had blue skies almost every day. The ship, although ten years old, was like an old friend returning for a nice long embrace. The ports-of-call gave an amazing overview of the Baltic region with their collective and individual histories. And we booked all shore excursions, save one, independently - which was terrific!
Traveling in late May to a northern region can be tricky. I packed two pairs of tennis shoes in case one got wet in the rain. I packed an umbrella. I packed sweat shirts and long sleeve shirts. But none of that was necessary because it was gorgeous! Our day in Germany was 85 degrees and sunny - pack sun screen, which I forgot (unfortunately!). Stockholm, Helsinki, St Petersburg, and Tallinn were in the seventies with lots of sun. Only Denmark was overcast with occasional drizzle. My sun-kissed face is evidence of the amazing luck we had with Mother Nature!
The Constellation was a joy. Returning to her after a long absence was the right thing to do. We had been cruising on Royal Caribbean, which always disappointed. But Celebrity is top notch, as far as we are concerned. The ship holds half the passengers of the larger ships in the industry, so it was a pleasant, non-crowded feel. And Celebrity food can not be beat! I even asked the Executive Chef if they were serving cinnamon ice cream (which I have only ever had on the Celebrity Millennium) which they were not. That and After Eight are our favrites ... So he had cinnamon and After Eight made every night for us ... double portions of both! The attention to detail, the genuine courtesy of the staff, and the calm demeanor of the entire ship makes it my favorite cruise to date. My only negative comment is the terrible casino on board. The slot machines have not been upgraded - so there are no electronic tickets. Coins are still used! It's unbearable if you are a slot player, like myself. And none of the machines payed. I have been on a lot of ships that don't pay very often. These machines didn't pay AT ALL. Very disappointing.
9140
Concierge Class
Perfect location - two doors down from the elevator bank and one flight up to the Seaside Cafe. Quick access for coffee/tea or a bite. Small cabin at 194 square feet. Beds are small too. Ample closet space, ample bathroom.
Celebrity does not change sheets nightly anymore - this surprised me.