We spent four days in London prior to the cruise with another couple, taking Viator tours while there, including the private car from Heathrow. We did an all day tour, the river boat tour, and the Kensington and Hampton Court Palace tour.
We always use the transportation provided by the cruise line, so went back to Heathrow on 8 June, and took the Celebrity bus to Southampton. Very orderly, no problems.
Check-in was also quick, and we all relaxed for the upcoming cruise. I really liked how the ship was laid out, with the Solarium, and specialties all together. The library has a very good selection of books, altho we always load up our nook and Ipad up with e-books too.
We had cabin 1040, on deck 10, right next to the elevators and stairs, an ideal spot. One time we had forgotten our id card, needed for departing the ship. Since all excursions left from the fwd area, I was able to get up to our room and back, with plenty of time.No engine noise, which we heard when we ate in the French restaurant, Murano.