Cruise #40: Quick 4 Day Getaway

6/24/2024 - 6/28/2024

 

Ship: Celebrity Reflections (solstice class)

Cabin : 7305 Veranda
 

Itinerary:

6/24 FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - 3:30 pm
6/25 Key West 7:00 AM 3:30 PM
6/26 At Sea
6/27 BIMINI, BAHAMAS 8:00 AM 4:00 PM
6/28 FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA 7:00 AM
 

Click on image to enlarge.

Fort Lauderdale Beach Our lovely breakfast across from the beach on a beautiful morning before we board the ship. Today begins cruise number 40 this time a 4 day Key West and Bahamas cruise on the Celebrity Reflections. Boarding was pretty routine with security and passport control. The odd thing was the boarding pass is on the Celebrity app which I had loaded before getting to the cruise terminal and displaying the Express pass. Of course once we got into the terminal, the app would no longer display the boarding pass so the attendant asked for our state room number and then after scanning our passport again she gave us a barcode that we could show the officer at the boarding station to get on the ship.	Fort Lauderdale Beach Note that at this time there is no medallion like on princess or even a key card. So you could not board this ship and start the vacation with a cocktail or coffee you had to go to your stateroom where you would find your keycard outside the door. Also a first--had to go to our muster station to Check-in which is all the way in the back for us where there are no elevators. This ship does not have aft elevators rather just forward and midship elevators. Did I mention our state room is all the way in the back on deck 7. We got a balcony stateroom which is rather nice the bed is actually a king size bed. A balcony is a nice size with 2 chairs and a table. The ship was constructed in 2012 and refurbished in 2022 but there are no USB ports and only one set of electrical outlets over the desk. The mini fridge came fully stocked with soda's, waters, beer, wine, and lots of vodka all for a fee of course.	Key West The coffee shop on deck 5 was most excellent. It has excellent cappuccino's and Americanos with superb pastries such as chocolate croissants and blueberry Danish. We found skylounge on Deck 12 all the way in the front. This is a great venue to hang out as it is huge very airy surrounded by windows on 3 sides. Here you can find live music as well as activities and very good margaritas. We had dinner at the Tuscan grill where I had a very good ribeye. We checked out a couple of music venues and found the musicians to be very talented and worthwhile. We ended the evening at an adult comedy show which was yes quite rude and hysterical. Supposed to be adults only but as this is summer when schools are closed and a short cruise there are a lot of kids here so parents actually brought their kids to a profanity filled adult comedy show. The air conditioned covered pool area is amazing!
Key West · .. our day consisted of walking Duvall St while looking at rude t-shirts. We stopped at Crazy Shirts to load up on shorts and shirts. This is our tradition whenever here. Then back to Joe's for food & drink.	Key West Victoria Lee at sloppy Joe's Key West FL.	Key West My best bunny Sloppy Joe
Key West Lou shooter	Bimini - Alice Town, The Bahamas · Here we are at the Bimini Pier. Very pretty island. Saw lots of fish in the water. This would be a very good place to come visit and stay a few days. This island in the Bahamas is known for wonderful wildlife where you can charter a boat and go out into the ocean and swim with the dolphins in THEIR natural habitat.	Bimini There were schools of fish visible next to the dock where the ship arrived. Dozens of people stood there admiring the sea life.
Bimini There are a few very nice resorts with white sand beaches. However, there is not much else on the island other than golf carts and flies. Both out number the people. As soon as you get off the ship, you are offered the opportunity to rent a golf cart. Just keep your mouth shut as we heard there many flies on the island.

 

 

Celebrity Reflections ratings:

Overall	****
Ship Condition	***
Stateroom	****
Bed	****
Storage Space	****
Cleanliness	***
Cabin Attendent	****
Food	***
Drinks	***
Lounge Service	****
Dining Service	****
Casino	***** No smoking Not very loud most of the time.
Excursions	n/a
Embarkation	*** You get your key card from your stateroom.  So you must do this before you can attend the required safety check and before you can get your first drink.
EntertainmentDisembarkation	***** All of the musicians we heard were excellent.  Way better than other cruise lines. Comedian was great.
Pizza	**
Burgers	***
Steaks	***
Sushi	*****
Coffee	***** Great coffee shop on deck 5 with prompt and courteous service.
Notes	No all inclusive package for drinks, wifi, and tips.  Soda package is $26 per day/per person.  Classic alcohol package is $71 per day/per person.  Premium drink package is $86 per day/per person. WIFI is $26 per day/per personfor one device low speed Internet.  $44 per day/per person 2 devices high speed. All tips are up to the passenger. Insurance is very expensive about twice other cruise lines. Fairs are also very expensive about 30% higher. No movies under the stars but they do have a movie theatre on deck 5.
Thoughts	I like Celebrity, but I do not like the cost and lack of inclusive package. However, not sure why, but for several months now I have been receiving offers for 3, 4, and now 6 or more night cruises for free - inside or veranda stateroom. Interesting because up until now I've only done 4 cruises on Celebrity while Princess I've done 32 but yet to receive such an offer. I think it is because Celebrity found out that we like to gamble. Yet we gamble on Princess but no offer. However Princess is still less expensive fairs and all inclusive package is $60 per day/per person. We are currently looking at a free 6 night cruise on Celebrity Summitt this December and several 6, 7, and 9 night free cruises next year- all inside or veranda stateroom. If you no me, you know I will never cruise inside cabin again - did it once never again.

 

Celebrity Reflections:

Public Areas on Deck 3

1
Opus Dining Room

The magnificent and luxurious main restaurant of Celebrity Reflection. With a two-story glass wine tower and dazzling chandeliers, this spectacular dining area has a sophisticated aura. Featuring globally infused, classic and contemporary cuisine that's complemented by Celebrity's talented and knowledgeable wait staff and sommeliers.

2
Reflection Theatre

The grand Reflection Theater is the premier venue for live performances aboard Celebrity Reflection. While accommodating a generous audience, it retains a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, bringing you production shows, beautiful musical arrangements, and sidesplitting comedy.

3
Passport Bar

Escape to the comforting environment of the decidedly casual Passport Bar. Inspired by the relaxed living space of large, oceangoing yachts, the Foyer bar is an ideal place to take a break, plan your next excursion, or share stories with others.

4
Luminae at The Retreat®

Globally inspired and cutting-edge dining, exclusively reserved for guests of The Retreat.

5
The Grand Foyer

Our stunning foyer greets you with a spectacular onyx staircase, marble floors and the first panoramic ocean-view glass elevators at sea.


Public Areas on Deck 4

1
Opus Dining Room

The magnificent and luxurious main restaurant of Celebrity Reflection. With a two-story glass wine tower and dazzling chandeliers, this spectacular dining area has a sophisticated aura. Featuring globally infused, classic and contemporary cuisine that's complemented by Celebrity's talented and knowledgeable wait staff and sommeliers.

2
Cellar Masters

Inspired by the vineyards of the world, Cellar Masters brings to life the experience of a global wine tour, while you learn about and taste a large variety of wines from around the world. Using state-of-the-art Enomatic® wine dispensers, your bacchanalian curiosity is satisfied with the press of a button. A welcoming and unique onboard environment, you'll discover new wines, receive recommendations and enrich your knowledge of the world of wine.

3
Conference Center

This multi-functional space serves as a spacious ballroom or conference area for weddings, business meetings, and cocktail parties. The full layout accommodates 140 guests, or it can be reconfigured for smaller groups. Our James Beard-featured culinary team offers traditional catering options or you can select from an array of pre-set, multi-course menus. Artful presentation is always on the menu.

4
Fortunes Casino

Feeling lucky? Combining the ambience of Monte Carlo and the energy of Las Vegas, Fortunes Casino is a perfect spot to participate in a game of chance or comfortably view all of the action at our ticket in/ticket out slot machines and table games.

5
Martini Bar

With an atmosphere inspired by ice and snow, the enchanting frosted bar is the social epicenter of the ship. An absolute must-visit for its chic and ultrahip feel, swing by the Martini Bar and grab a signature martini before dinner or make a night of it. This bar has a vibe like no other, which makes it the perfect spot to gather with friends all night long.

6
Crush

Tucked in a corner of the Martini Bar, Crush takes the frozen bar concept, and the appreciation of fine vodka and caviar, a bit further. The communal table features and ice well right down the center to keep your vodka and caviar selections icy cold during tastings. Try some of the more than 100 intriguing vodkas in our collection.

7
Reflection Theatre

The Theater is the premier live performance venue aboard Celebrity Reflection. While accommodating a generous audience, it retains a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, bringing you production shows, beautiful musical arrangements, and sidesplitting comedy.

8
Celebrity Central

For lively, diverse entertainment, the versatile Celebrity Central is the perfect destination. Catch a late night comedy show, an engaging presentation from one of our Smithsonian Journeys speakers, or a great movie in a comfortable, casual atmosphere.

9
Shops on the Boulevard

Beautiful walkways lead you to sophisticated boutiques that hold stylish clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, fragrances and more. Window shop, attend a fashion show or select gifts for friends and family. Then, indulge yourself as you encounter the ideal memento of your truly extraordinary cruise experience.


Public Areas on Deck 5

1
Blu

As an AquaClass® guest, you can enjoy Blu, your own exclusive restaurant for breakfast and dinner. If the concept of spa restaurant causes you or your significant other to think you'll never see a steak or a rich dessert on the menu, that is definitely not the case. The cuisine at Blu is simply an imaginative way of preparing popular dishes without fussiness or pretense. Tender steak is served with a flavorful truffle vinaigrette instead of a heavy béarnaise. We call it clean cuisine.

2
Le Petit Chef at Qsine

The world-renown artists of Skullmapping™ have reached a true pinnacle of their custom 3D table animation art form. This dining experience is beautifully choreographed with an elegant menu created by our chef.

3
Galleria Boutiques

The Galleria Boutiques is a shopping experience at sea. Here you will find exclusive shops from top designers, one-of-a-kind collectibles and a range of upscale personal accessories selected to please the most discriminating tastes.

4
Art Gallery

Refined culture at sea is what you will experience in our inspiring and thought-provoking onboard Art Gallery. Stop in on your way to dinner and it just might spark up an enriching table conversation; swing by after dinner and have a touch of sophistication for dessert. You may even find yourself buying an irresistible one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring back from your trip.

5
Sushi on Five

Try our modern luxury take on traditional Japanese fare. Take the opportunity to try our premium, super-premium, and specialty sakes—selected by our sake sommelier. Ask for fresh wasabi, if you dare. It's rare to find the real thing.

6
Café al Bacio & Gelateria

If only your local coffee shop had ocean views like these. Savor a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a delightful liqueur in this lively style coffee house. Or treat yourself to the gelateria, where sumptuous Italian ices and gelatos are prepared afternoon and evening.

7
Ensemble Lounge

An elegant gateway to our restaurants, Ensemble Lounge is the ideal setting for an aperitif en route to an extraordinary specialty dining experience, or a digestif afterward. Live entertainment from world-class musicians and a dressed for dinner crowd make this elegant space an integral prequel or sequel to dining.

8
Michael's Club

Exclusive lounge for guests of The Retreat. Enjoy complimentary beverages, gourmet bites, and a stylish place to unwind in style, along with the services of a dedicated concierge.

9
Murano

Impeccable service, classic design, world-class cuisine and comfortable sophistication are celebrated to the utmost in Murano. Experience tableside lobster presentation, an expansive selection of artisanal cheeses from around the world, or the extensive American and French wine list. Charming and timeless, Murano transports you, through palate and décor, to a modern and sophisticated level of dining.

10
Tuscan Grille

An outgoing waitstaff ensures tableside service that’s personal as well as professional. And the food? Take the traditional style and artisanal flair of Italy, add contemporary influences, and serve the cuisine in abundance. It’s all part of the expansive character of Tuscan Grille.

11
World Class Bar

Welcome to our fine drinking experience, where the ritual of making cocktails is just as exciting as drinking them. Using the freshest ingredients and the finest spirits, our expert mixologists aim to satisfy the palates of both curious newcomers and connoisseurs alike.

12
Reflection Theatre

The Theater is the premier live performance venue aboard Celebrity Reflection. While accommodating a generous audience, it retains a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, bringing you production shows, beautiful musical arrangements, and sidesplitting comedy.

13
Photo Gallery

With our quick service, your favorite photos and portraits can be viewed in the Photo Gallery the following day. Don’t miss out on our photo package cruise deals so you’ll always have some of your happiest times to experience again and again.


Public Areas on Deck 7

1
The Hideaway

An avant-garde retreat where you'll find a quiet spot to disconnect, rest and relax. You can even escape into your own private lounging nest.

Find Your S
Public Areas on Deck 14

1
Sky Observation Lounge

A quiet refuge by day for gazing over the sea with a cocktail at hand. At night, the space comes to life with live music and dancing.

2
The Spa Café

We extended your spa experience by introducing the The Spa Café. The result is a creative take on healthy cuisine, featuring an eclectic blend of offerings that are both flavorful and good for you.

3
Solarium

Find true poolside serenity at the Solarium. Featuring a gorgeous pool, sparkling waterfalls, thickly padded lounge chairs, and an adults-only policy, tranquility is always just a few steps away.

4
The Pool

Spend the day by the pool. Relax with a book, or have a bite at the grill. Enjoy the serenade of the music from the bandstand and dance your heart away on the dance floor. For a refresher, take a dip in the pool or rejuvenate in the whirlpool.

5
Oceanview Café

This café's décor and offerings reflect that of an international marketplace. With a menu influenced by multiple cultures, the cuisine takes diners on a voyage around the world. Stations available in the marketplace include: made-to-order pasta, stir-fry, pizza and sushi, a full salad bar, and a variety of appetizer entrées and desserts. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night.

6
The Pool Bar

Sip on refreshing cocktails as you unwind poolside, losing yourself in the live music and gentle sea breezes.

Public Areas on Deck 15

1
XClub

Teens ages 13-17 can cut loose and kick back the way they want in our hip VIP area geared specifically for teens. From teen-oriented explorations to the dance club designed with them in mind, XClub is sure to be a hit with all our teenage guests.

2
Camp at Sea

Welcome to the first and only fully customizable Camp at Sea program. Our schedule of activities changes on every sailing based on the interests of our junior cruisers.

3
The Lawn Club

A freshly manicured lawn on the highest deck. Enjoy casual outdoor activities in a decidedly Country Club atmosphere and let the grass between your toes take you places no cruise has gone before.

4
The Lawn Club Grill

The joys of interactive outdoor grilling with ocean views in an open-air setting overlooking the Lawn Club.

5
The Porch

Enjoy the freshest seafood and raw bar while surrounded by sun-dappled lawns, gorgeous sunsets, and breezy, ocean views.

6
Pool & Mast Bars

Energetic, lively and casual; a large poolside spot for light and refreshing cocktails, frozen specialties and non-alcoholic offerings, from sunup to sundown. The musical program transitions from the latest hits to cool Ibiza Beach and hot Latin House rhythms.

7
The Studio

Capture your most precious memories on-board Celebrity with an exclusive session in our Private Studio. Portraits are professionally shot in a private setting and delivered in an artistic format.

8
Sunset Bar

Spectacular views make this a relaxing ritual every evening. Watch the sun set on the water accompanied by pop and folk tunes from a live guitarist.

9
Mast Grill

Let your cravings go wild. Grab a great burger in a relaxed, poolside environment.

10
Mast Bar

Enjoy delicious drinks while you relax in the sun.

Public Areas on Deck 16

1
Solstice Deck

When you arrive at the highest point on the ship, you won't be disappointed. Whether you're looking for the ideal spot to do some early morning yoga, stretch out on a canopied lounge bed, or for the best view of the beautiful starry sky to cap off another magical evening aboard, The Solstice Deck is where your search ends and the relaxation begins.

 

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