This Cruise now, 2 weeks later, feels like it was a dream which I suppose means it was a really good holiday!

We drove to Southampton and parked the car just across the road from the Terminal. Security and Check In was fast as we appeared to be given priority as Elite members. Once on board we did the usual of exploring the ship. The staterooms were closed off so we had to carry our carry on bags with us. We were restrained for lunch in the Buffet during which it was announced that the staterooms were ready. After the safety drill we made our way to the Sunset Bar on the Lawn Club for sail away drinks with some of the Cruise Critic Roll Call. We managed to meet up with the other two couples we were doing a trip in the Azores with.

For Dinner we were on second sitting and it is always intriguing to find out who your dining companions are. We had a table of 8 which dwindled to 4 as two sisters switched to Select Dining as second sitting was too late fro them and another couple managed to re-arrange to sit with friends they had cruised with before. I was a little anxious about the food as Jacques Van Staden, Celebrity's Signature Chef, had left in the summer. However, the food was excellent throughout and the portions were quite generous. We ate very well and came home about 5 pounds heavier.We also bought a speciality dining package with a meal in each of the speciality restaurants. We started with QSine and it really wasn't our cup of tea. That said, Tuscan Grille and Murano's were really excellent. Read more