Embarkation and disembarking was a breeze in Sydney. For a ship this size, it is amazing how quickly this process is.
This was our first time with Celebrity. The ship was amazing (compared to the local Aussie fleet of Princess & P&O). Very modern and well maintained. The foyer / atrium / glass lifts were a lovely site. A lot of thought was put into the design of public areas. Lots of different seats and seating areas and bars, and small nooks to get away from it all.
As with all ships, the buffet and coffee bar were very crowded at peak times, and could be very difficult to find a seat.
We decided to treat ourselves to upgrade from a standard balcony to a guaranteed suite about 6-8 weeks prior to sailing. Initially we were given 2125 (along the side of deck 12) , but this was changed to 2155 (looking to the very rear if the ship ) less than a week prior to sailing.
The cabin was well appointed, and everything we expected for the lowest grade suite. The cabin service by our 2 cabin stewards and butler were faultless. Plenty of storage space. Lots of nice little touches. You just need to be aware that the shower is over the bath - possibly not so appealing for some elderly passengers, or those with mobility difficulties.
The position of the cabin was initially appealing to us. A great view to the rear of the ship - great as we were leaving ports. Also, to be able to sit if the deck at any time without the wind blowing around us.
However, directly above this "Suite" level is the outside bar area if the buffet (Oceanview bar). The constant scraping of wooden chairs of the wooden deck as people dragged chairs from one table to another was initially tolerable. However, it became quite annoying after a few days. If we had paid less for a standard balcony, it would not have annoyed us anywhere near as much. However, when paying good money for a suite, you don't expect to have to tolerate this noise from 7am into the late evening. What made it less palatable, was that cleaning was obviously done between 3-4am, and a few times I awoke at this time to hear chairs being dragged across the deck by staff.
Not impressed with this city. Dirty, unfriendly, expensive.
We have taken tours in on previous cruises.
Will not bother getting if the ship next time.
If you are happy sitting in the beach, swimming if snorkelling, this is a great place.
Talcum powder sand.
Beautiful clear water.
A number of "market" type stalls to buy souviners.
I think you gave to take a shore your to appreciate this port.
Free shuttle to the city.
The city was very busy, and we were hassled by locals from the minute we got off the bus to buy goods or rake tours.
We were not impressed.
Always list to see an do around the city. We stayed at Napoleon on Kent. We were very happy with the room for the price we paid. They were able to arrange airport pick up at a very reasonable price). Walking distance to Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Circular Quay, and the International cruise ship terminal (although we took a taxi with our luggage).