We chose Celebrity Solstice as we wanted to cruise around New Zealand and the itinerary offered the right destinations for us. We would not normally choose such a large ship as we feel 1,200-1,600 passengers maximum is manageable. We also chose the Concierge Class as the additional offerings seemed value for money, which they were not.. Embarkation in Sydney was chaotic, with no queue control. As Concierge Class we could board when we wanted to and were on-board around 13.00. The cabins were not ready and the crew were mainly interested in selling "drinks packages" and restaurant reservations that helping passengers. Not impressed at all.

The cabin was at the rear of the ship, well appointed and a reasonable size with balcony.

On the first afternoon there was a very brief presentation to Concierge Class passengers on shore excursions, which mainly dealt with selling the overnight stop at Queenstown from Milford Sound on the way to Duneedin. The Shorex Manager, Luc ? left very quickly before any of us could ask questions and the Concierge Manager, Bianca, said she would get him to call us and another couple. Nothing happened and we booked the tour ourselves. This was the most expensive tour offered and we thought they might have taken some interest. We did not bother to contact the Concierge Manager again. Read more