We have just returned from the Scandinavia and Russia cruise on Celebrity Silhouette. We drove down from Derbyshire the day before embarkation and stayed overnight at the Ibis Hotel which was just 5 minutes away from the cruise terminal. After leaving our car in the designated car park, at 10.45 am, we strolled over to our terminal which was just a short walk away. There was very little queueing and, much to our surprise, we were on board the ship in about 20 minutes. We were allowed to use the on-board facilities while we waited for our cabin to be ready. It was a very hot day and I was wishing I had thought to put my bathing suit in my hand luggage and take advantage of the lovely pool while it was empty!

Our cabin was very roomy and immaculately clean. Our stateroom was on Deck 8, towards the back, with a balcony. The bed was comfortable with 2 pillows each, we only used one each as they were very soft and squishy. The cabin had a safe, fridge and tea/ coffee making facilities. Plenty of wardrobe space and we made full use of the storage space over the bed which we used as a drawer. Our cabin steward (Sunny) was excellent, remaining efficient and unobtrusive throughout the cruise. Although we were on a tariff which included tips we gave Sunny a little extra before we left the ship.

We chose to do ‘any time dining’. By Day 2 we had already established ourselves on a regular table, in the corner of the Grand Cuvee dining room, by a window. Because we chose to eat our evening meal quite early (5.30pm to 6 pm) we were always confident we would get the same window seat or one nearby. Our dining room waiters were, Roger, Milan and Wil. Roger was particularly entertaining with a dry sense of humour and a willingness to please. Again, we left tips for our waiters because of their care and attention. Read more