This was our second Solstice Class sailing, the first being on the Solstice in the Mediterranean in November, 2009. Though the ships felt identical (down to much of the carpeting) our on board experience was much different. We booked this cruise less than 3 weeks before sailing and at the time were only able to get an inside cabin. Granted, we got a fantastic deal, but we sure missed the balcony. On Solstice, we were in AquaClass and had the Blu experience but this time we got to enjoy the Silhouette dining room. My partner and I traveled with my sister and brother-in-law, who had booked their trip many months in advance.

The whole trip got started off on the wrong foot, but fortunately Celebrity was outstanding in coming to our assistance. Long story short, Continental Airlines canceled our day-of-sailing flight from Newark due to weather the day before. We were unable to secure alternate flights that would get us to the ship prior to departure from Ft. Lauderdale. A representative from ChoiceAir, Yuli was relentless in helping the 4 of us meet the ship, preferably in Ft. Lauderdale, but ultimately in the first port -- St. Thomas. We flew to Ft. Lauderdale on Sunday where Celebrity picked us up and took us to Miami. They put us on a flight to St. Thomas, provided a hotel, and got us to the ship as it was docking in St. Thomas the next morning. We got on around 7:00a.m. before the passengers got off and ended up with a 7 night cruise. Once on board, we were able to relax and enjoy our vacation. I have to note here that the hotel Celebrity put us up in. The Windward Passage, was horrendous. Dirty, worn, and didn't feel very safe. We spoke with different staff members and made several phone calls to alert Celebrity that it is certainly far from Celebrity standards and something they need to rethink. Don't get me wrong, we are very appreciative that Celebrity took care of us, but would never stay in that hotel again. Ever.

Service: Outstanding. Truly. From our cabin steward and assistant to the dining room staff. Because we arrived so late, our original dining room table for 4 was reassigned. Our first night's location was not optimal but Marcel the head maitre d' worked hard to secure us a prime location -- lower level, center section just under the balcony above. Our waiter and assistant were among the best we've ever had on 16 cruises. The dining room manager, Fabio, was also very concerned about our well-being and happiness,checking on us nightly. The only weakness was in the sommeliers. Across 3 of them, they seemed ill-informed and ill-prepared. Not a show stopper, but not what we are used to. Read more