We sailed on the 19th Jan 2012. After a quick transfer from the airport we were greeted by staff in a hut to check in and have photo's taken for ship id. There was a short walk to the actual ship (10mins max). We were greeted on board and proceeded to our cabin which was given to us on arrival at check in at the UK airport. We were shown to our cabin which was number 201 on the 6th deck right at the front of the boat. The cabin was large, 2 single beds 2 day seats and a full bathroom with bath. It had 2 full length wardrobes with plenty of hangers and 2 bath robes. A tv which showed sky news and sports, cruise dvd which is available to buy, itinerary show on a loop, a 2 movie channels and radio channels. (the movies changed daily) The cabin was very clean and the bathroom was also clean, slight wonky tiles and very small mouldy bit which had tried to be removed with cleaning but still showed. Toiletries provided and plenty of towels. The Celebration is 100% better than the Island Escape. The ship itself was lovely. The staff very friendly and the shows excellent. Food: Lido restaurant was buffet service with plenty to choose from. Breakfasts was great everything you want and more, lunch great and dinners and late night snacks were fine too. On the lido deck, breakfast was also available as well as pizza and the best burgers I have had in a long time were available throughout the afternoon. Plenty of tea and coffee stations too. Plenty of choice of drinks apart from lager which is currently Heineken (sp) and 1 bitter john smiths, but the spirit selection is like a normal pub. Bottled water is not included on the AI basis but if bought after 10am you get it at £1.40.

The ports of call on this cruise are pretty poor. You have to use there excursions for piece of mind. We did go alone to Aqaba into the town and felt ok there. Nothing to do but shop though!

We did the Petra trip which was fine, didn't meet expectations though...didn't know what to expect, but didn't have enough free time to explore when the tour in Petra finished. Be wary if your not active walker as can be very hard going. The walk back to the town after Petra can be difficult and long. But we were glad we did it. Read more