Embarkation was a bit slower than normal, with fewer check-in personnel available. Since the terminal has no restroom facilities nearby the boarding area, plan accordingly. Once on the ship you are greeted with champagne and mimosas by all the officers. This is the best crew afloat, very friendly with lots of passenger interaction. Since we boarded around 3pm, we had immediate access to our cabin. Our cabin was small but quite adequate with plenty of storage space. The shower is rectangular instead of a semi-circle, and was more comfortable and spacious than the one on the Equinox, especially for tall people. We had a small veranda that comfortable enough for two. Our Cabin Steward was Prezar and he was excellent. Our first Cruise Critic event was an informal Sail-Away party in the Sunset Bar. The port photographs all ship departures and later you can see photos of you and your ship sailing away to paradise. We had Select Dining, so ate when we wished, usually around 7. This can make it dicey to attend the shows as the early show is around 7 and the 9pm show is often full when you finish dinner. The Cruise Director, Sue Denning, is wonderful and seems to be everywhere, very visible, as are all of the officers. Alan from Guest Relations arranged for a "Meet and Mingle" with our new Cruise Critic friends and saw to delivery of notices of all the events. Make sure you visit the forums and sign up for the roll call for your cruise. You will get acquainted with others on your cruise from all over the world. Our group had two special Karaoke nights, a slot pull, a cabin crawl and a farewell luncheon, all set up by Celebrity. The first At Sea day is the first formal night and most people dress for the formal nights on the cruise. Make sure to visit the Martini Bar, manned by Boob-Boom. He is a master at his craft and very entertaining. He pours six different martinis as once. The Perry Grant show in Michael's Club is also a must see.
I knew this cabin was adjacent to the aft elevators, but I did not realize the constant dinging of the elevators would be so irritating, especially early in the morning and late at night; although this did not bother my companion.