My wife Carol and I are both classed as Seniors (people tend to tell us so, anyway) and though we had been on four cruises this calendar year, the one we were looking forward to the most was the Celebrity Constellation, for one very good reason. It is considered the highest rated line in its class, (So, we are told, says the well regarded Conde Nast Traveler's magazine) and everyone we had queried over the years had told us that Yes, indeed, it deserved the title, with superior food and service.

To our mutual regret, and stating right up front in no uncertain terms that we are positive people and look for the best in all things, Darn...unfortunately, we did not find much to rave about here; we wondered if our expectations were set too high. Let me first comment on the good.

Embarkation from our S.Fl. area of Ft. Lauderdale was as rapid and smooth as any we have ever experienced. Greetings both at the service counters, as well as by staff helping people entering the embarkation area, could not have been more gracious and helpful, as was agent service once reaching the counters to present necessary paperwork before boarding. Reception on board was also friendly and efficient and we found our cabin, an oceanview on Deck 2 in the forward section, to be clean and functional. Storage was more than adequate for a ten day or somewhat longer voyage. There was a small desk with a chair and a small sofa as well. The steward appeared quickly and introduced himself politely and offered to be of any needed present or future assistance. Read more