We were almost a month aboard Celebrity Solstice and would very happily have stayed longer. From the moment we boarded in Perth ( easy peasy ) to our disembarkation in Auckland, also a positive experience, our holiday was hugely enjoyable. Fantastic staff from our ever helpful stateroom attendants through reception and dining rooms, nothing was left undone and they were unfailingly courteous.

The size of the ship meant that it never felt crowded and the top deck was always comfortable for the brisk daily walk I so enjoyed. Imagine being surrounded by sparkling blue seas yet seeing this notice posted on the verdant grass- " Lawn is resting "- magic! The food was so good and the company( open dining ) so pleasant that we didn't bother booking a specialty restaurant though we heard very positive comments on all of them. Entertainment was varied and perhaps varied in quality too but the permanent hardworking troupe were excellent as was the band. One of the unforgettable experiences was getting to sing with the Celebrity Guest Choir under the tutelage magi and friend, something unexpected and wonderful. The ports were all interesting and memorable in different ways, with our privately arranged tour of Bali( thanks to Cruise Critic) one of the highlights.

All in all, a great way to make winter disappear, and I have no hesitation in recommending Celebrity X