Celebrity Eclipse Review

First Caribbean Cruise

Review for the Southern Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Eclipse
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evetsgreb
6-10 Cruises • Age 80s

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Sail Date: Feb 2014

Although not exactly "seasoned" or "veteran" cruisers, we have enjoyed several trips to Mexico and Alaska, plus Hawaii, Norway (Arctic Circle), European River and, finally, this - our first cruise to the Southern Caribbean. What a great way for snowbirds to escape northern winters! Our first discovery was that you can't fly and same-day sail if you live in the western US - flight schedules cannot accommodate arrival in a Florida airport in time to get to the ship prior to departure (unless, perhaps, you fly from LA, SF or Seattle). We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 - in one of the outlying motel-type rooms - and were reminded very quickly that Florida-coast moisture takes a severe toll. The room was not acceptably clean, had a tile floor that collected dirt and mold, and reeked of the 'forties. We did not see any of the tower rooms, which might be more attractive.

The boarding process - as is the case in any cruise - is simply a time-consuming ordeal with lines after lines and delays. In truth, we have to admit that the cruise lines have been doing this for a long time, and they probably have the process down to the best it can be, all things (nearly 3,000 passengers, etc.) considered.

Generally speaking, the ship was clean and attractive and the crew was very accommodating. Our dinner at specialty restaurant Tuscan Grille was very disappointing, as the food quality was only fair and the service was extremely slow. We did not realize until a few days later that illnesses had caused a personnel shortage in the kitchen and serving staff. Apparently, about half-way through the cruise, crew (and some passenger) illnesses forced drastic changes in food distribution - particularly in the buffet lines. Cruisers were no longer able to collect their own silverware and food. All servers had to wear gloves and many used tongs to pick up food items, and passengers were cordoned away from the serving tables and had to tell the servers (or point to) what they wanted to be placed on their plate. These changes were necessary, it was explained to us, in order that the ship not be stopped at some Caribbean port mid-cruise for more drastic cleaning action. We have experienced similar precautions on other cruises, and know of no other way to stem the spread of the Norovirus or other foodborne-disease outbreaks on board ship.

Cabin Review

The room was small but very clean and convenient. Since we only need the stateroom for sleeping, showers and dressing, we do not mind that it is interior with no view. Most of our time is spent on deck and a various ship functions and performances. No complaints whatsoever.

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