I was expecting more. Celebrity's advertising promised a somewhat more upscale version of Royal Caribbean, but I did not see it. Granted the ship itself is well appointed in the style of a four- or five-star contemporary hotel, though a little cold, corporate and formulaic (think a new, high end Starwood property) for my tastes. Everything considered, the on-board experience was somehow lacking and certainly had no "wow" factor (Cunard's elegance, Carnival's laid back fun, NCL's friendliness).

The service was all over the place: friendly and earnest most of the time, but occasionally forgetful or indifferent (short-staffing? Inadequate training?). The embarkation was very smooth: 30 minutes curb to state room. But why no greeting or "welcome aboard" at the gangplank, or for that matter a glass of champagne? Our group just walked on: no one to provide directions to state rooms or elevators. Even the most pedestrian of hotels will direct you to the elevators.

My next encounter with the staff was with Guest Relations after my luggage failed to show after three hours. The GR counter person showed me some orphaned luggage, remarked that luggage gets lost all the time and then suggested I just wait. Just before dinner at 8 I called, but still no luggage. "Patience!" I have no patience -- and like to dress appropriately for dinner -- so set out on my own, going up and down the corridors until I found my luggage in front of a state room exactly two decks up. I explained this to the GR head the next day (there was no followup from my earlier visit and call) and they were profusely apologetic, offering a generous onboard credit and champagne in the room. So great recovery there. Read more