Due to unforeseen circumstances we had to cancel an earlier cruise, so when I saw a tremendous deal offered for this one, my wife Rosy and I jumped at the chance, although it was on a much larger ship than we have become used to.

We were quoted around £2900 each for a Sky suite, including premium beverage package, wifi, gratuities and $300 OBC, virtually an all-inclusive cruise, but Celebrity had other ideas, - more later!

We booked flights, with Alitalia from London-Rome, with two nights at the Hotel Morgana, situated very close to Termini station, very convenient for arrival and departure. They had offered a ‘birthday’ upgrade, but on arrival they sprung a nice surprise. We were allocated a private apartment about 50m away, with private entrance and balcony overlooking some nice gardens. The soft drinks in the fridge were free and tea / coffee making things were also provided. Read more