This was our first ever cruise so we could only compare to our experience in all-inclusive resorts.
As it was our first cruise, we wanted a no-worry/no-trouble trip so we booked an all in one package that included air transit from our home city, onboard gratuities and standard drink package which we upgraded to the premium package.
We were happy to do so since the plane chartered by Celebrity to bring us to the cruise had a first half-hour delay due to late arriving of the crew (!?) then, at the beginning of the runway, we turned around for a one hour delay due to minor (?) mechanical problem… finally, we arrived at Palm Beach Airport (PBI) having missed our landing window so we had another half-hour delay to get to an access ramp (!?) … add to this the one hour+ bus transit to Port Everglades, every other passengers were already boarded when we arrived. The good thing is we had absolutely no waiting time for the check-in where plenty of Celebrity people were waiting for us.
We cannot compare with other boats or cruise line but we were very satisfied with our state room. Sure it is not as spacious as a resort room but we had plenty enough space to move around, also plenty of storage space for our clothes. Bathroom was of descent size with a full size shower. The Veranda was large enough to sit side by side and still have room to move around the chairs. Location in the middle of the ship minimized the effect of the roll and pitch when there was strong wind. Our veranda was angled toward the aft of the ship which reduces the wind coming in, granting us a comfortable stay enjoying sunsets or whatever time we decided to spent there. We were only steps away from the elevators and the staircases. So, it was a very good of stateroom thanks to the wise advise of our travel agent.
We simply went ashore to wander neart the port; lots of luxury boutiques (mostly jewels and watches). We would have go to 7 miles beach but the price ask by the cruise was way too high and we confident enough to go on our own.
Nice beaches, since we were the only ship, there was lots of beach chairs available but available beach space depended upon which section of beach you choose. Cruise set up severals nice BBQ (included in the cruise).