Buenos Aires to Machu Picchu Bucket List Trip

We chose this trip as part of an Enrichment Journey combined with an after cruise land package to Machu Picchu.

As for the cruise portion of the trip. I read several reviews of the ship experience before I sat down to write this on. I agree with most that the Infinity is an older ship. I do not agree at all that it is shabby and ill kept. Our suite, 9096, was spacious, clean, and meticulously attended to by Harold, our Butler, and Michael, our cabin steward. We would definitely ask for those two again. Sure, it could have used some updated furniture, but that is knit picking. The first night we had a vanity light out. It was fixed by the electrician in 15 minutes. Our only complaint about the cabin what the moving of deck chairs on the activities deck above. I would recommend some kind of sound deadening on refitting.

Embarkation was a breeze. We arrived about 1pm and walked right on the ship. Debarkation was fine. No problem with bags and connections. There was some criticism of Celebrity staff cut backs. I did not experience that in any part of the cruise.

The food, overall, was excellent. We did not eat at all at Trellis, opting for Blue, Qsine, tuscan Grill, and Luminae. The food and service at all locations were excellent, especially the meals we had at Qsine and Tuscan Grill.The food choices at Luminae were somewhat limited. The food at Oceanview was overall very good. Bar service from Geonina was terrific. Her smiling face and great demeanor were a welcome every afternoon.

One of the real highlights of the cruise was the service and graciousness offered by the staff at Michael's club headed by Eric, the manager. Eric should immediately be recommended for promotion. In all of our 25 cruises, he is the best customer service person we have ever encountered.

Another highlight was having Mickey Live and his beautiful and charming wife and daughter on the ship. Mickey gave us unique perspectives on each and every magnificent port of call, plus entertaining and informative updates on the Glaciers and travel route.

We took all ships tours this time and weren't disappointed by any of them. Particularly out standing were tours of Montevideo, Port Madryn and the incredible trekking at Puerto Monte. These were very strenuous, but rewarded our efforts with sights and sounds that we would have never otherwise experienced. Congratulations the Celebrity for upgrading their tours. They are expensive, but this is not a cruise to try to save a few dollars. There is too much to see and do and experience.

Now for a few recommended changes

1. The buffet tables are too deep, causing guests to have to lean over too far to get some selections. This causes potential health issues.

2. The premium drink package needs to include more choices, particularly with white wines. This is especially true at the service bars.

3. The Issue with getiing back on the ship at Puerto Montte needs to be addressed. This is one place Eric really shined by coming to the aid of his guests. Great effort Eric!

4. The above mentioned noise on the activities deck.

All other aspects of the ship such as the Gym, shows, and Bar singers were very good, but that is not why we came. If that is what you value most, this cruise is probably not for you.

As you can see from this review, I valued the new friends we made, the universally excellent service from the staff, and the sights we saw that we may never see again above all else. Well done!

AS in my main review above, the suite was very spacious, clean and well maintained. Harold and Michael were the highlights of the experience. They were as good as we have ever had. Could use some updated furniture and some new art.