My husband and I (both 40) took the Southern Caribbean cruise on Summit Jan 19-26, 2008. Overall we had a lovely time. This was my second cruise, my first was with Holland on the Veendam to Alaska a year and a half ago with my mother. It was my husband's first cruise. After the exceptional service and food on Holland, I wanted to replicate that but with a younger set. Celebrity was a good choice. The average age on this trip was about 50-60 with several 30-mid 40 people as well. We had a regular outside window cabin on the lowest level. The service everywhere on the ship was very good. We felt the cabin amenities, service and attention was 4 star. (I would have rated it 5 star, but my pillow was too hard-I am used to a down pillow). The beds were very comfortable. It was wonderful to get clean towels and a tidied bathroom twice a day.
Yes, the public areas are showing wear and tear. This is the comment most people make about the Summit. Especially the wood outside needs fresh varnish. Apparently the Summit will go into dry dock soon.
We stayed at San Juan 1 night before and 1 night after the cruise at the El Canario Inn, a charming little two star place a block from Condado beach. It was inexpensive for the San Juan Condado area, $149 per night. We would recommend it if you don't mind a 2 star accommodation: very small rooms, double bed, no elevator or AC in the stairs/hallway, but it does have a charming courtyard garden for the continental breakfast. The rooms have AC and a ceiling fan.