A VIP day onboard Celebrity Apex!
A VIP day onboard Celebrity Apex!
Wow what a fabulous day in Southampton on a Designer Travel VIP ship visit, of the magnificent Celebrity Apex!
As a travel expert, getting the chance to experience the Celebrity Apex firsthand is such an invaluable opportunity. Known for its cutting-edge design, luxurious amenities, and innovative experiences, the Celebrity Apex is a shining example of modern cruising. Here’s a glimpse into my day visit onboard this stunning vessel.
We were fortunate to board just after guests departed and whilst they were preparing for a new departure, so it was quiet and calm, and boarding was seamless and effortless.
Highlights of our tour Included:
Eden
Here we started our tour with croissants and a bucks fizz and an introduction to the ship. The Eden Lounge on Celebrity Apex is a multi-level venue that offers a unique blend of nature, dining, and entertainment. These include:
Eden Café:
A casual dining area offering breakfast and lunch, with Indoor and outdoor seating with stunning ocean views.
Eden Restaurant:
A specialty dining experience with a menu inspired by nature, featuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients, with interactive and theatrical dining experiences in the evening.
Eden Bar:
A bar area offering a relaxed atmosphere with lush, plant-filled surroundings a wide range of craft cocktails, wines, and spirits. Mixologists create unique, nature-inspired drinks.
Eden Lounge:
A space for relaxation and socializing during the day with comfortable seating areas with panoramic ocean views.
The Grand Plaza
The Grand Plaza, the heart of the ship, with its striking chandelier and lively ambiance. This space, which transforms from a daytime gathering spot to an evening entertainment focal point, with its dazzling dancing light show.
The Retreat
The Retreat on Celebrity Apex is a luxurious, exclusive area designed for suite guests, which provides an elevated experience with premium amenities and services. These include:
The Retreat Lounge, which is a private lounge area for suite guests, offering a quiet space to relax with complimentary beverages, snacks, and a dedicated concierge service.
The Retreat Sundeck, a private outdoor area exclusive to suite guests, with luxurious loungers, a private pool, and hot tubs. Full bar service and cabanas.
Luminae at The Retreat, an exclusive restaurant with a menu curated by a Michelin-starred chef, with focus on high-quality, unique dishes and personalised service set in a stylish and sophisticated dining atmosphere.
The Resort Deck
The Resort Deck, with its stunning pool, sunken seating areas, and the iconic Magic Carpet (a cantilevered, floating platform), is a testament to Celebrity’s innovative approach to cruise ship design. The Magic Carpet, which moves between decks, offers unique dining experiences and unobstructed ocean views, which also acts a tender platform for when the ship can’t dock in port.
The Rooftop Gardens
The Rooftop Gardens, one of my most favourite areas! With its beautiful garden adorned with a variety of plants and greenery, with sculptures and art creating a lush, tranquil environment. The design aims to blend natural elements with modern architecture. There are plenty of seating options, from loungers to cozy nooks, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the panoramic views. The Rooftop Garden often hosts live music performances and other entertainment events, an outdoor screen is available for movie nights under the stars, offering a unique cinematic experience. The Rooftop Garden Grill provides a casual dining option with a menu that features barbecue favourites and other delicious dishes. The open-air setting makes it a stunning place to enjoy a meal. Guests can engage in various activities such as yoga classes, salsa lessons, fitness sessions, or simply stroll through the garden paths.
Culinary Delights
The ship boasts over 29 dining venues and provides a rich array of options, from casual to fine dining, catering to various tastes and preferences.
I personally had the pleasure of dining at Raw on 5, where we we served the most delicious Japanese banquet. The food, staff and the service were just amazing!
There are 4 main dining areas and a variety of specialty restaurants, each with its own distinct atmosphere and menu:
• Cosmopolitan Restaurant which features new American cuisine with global influences.
• Normandie Restaurant which offers French-inspired cuisine with modern twists.
• Cyprus Restaurant which focuses on Mediterranean dishes.
• Tuscan Restaurant which serves Italian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients.
Speciality restaurants include:
• Fine Cut Steakhouse which offers premium steaks and seafood.
• Le Petit Chef at Le Grand Bistro
Unique dining experience with animated 3D table projections and a French bistro-inspired menu.
• Raw on 5 which is a seafood and sushi bar.
• Magic Carpet which is a unique dining venue that moves up and down the ship’s exterior, and offers stunning views and a changing menu based on location.
• Eden Restaurant which offers creative dishes and an immersive environment with live performances.
• Rooftop Garden Grill which focuses on casual outdoor dining with barbecue favourites.
In addition to this there are also a further 5 more casual dining options and boasts 13 lounge and bars.
Entertainment
The Celebrity Apex does not disappoint when it comes to entertainment and activities. The Theatre is a state-of-the-art venue offering a diverse range of performances, from Broadway-style shows to intimate musical performances.
The Theatre Production Shows offer Broadway-style performances featuring high-energy dance, music, and acrobatics. Live performers include renowned musicians, DJ’s and comedians. The Interactive game shows where guests can participate and win prizes, Movies Under the Stars, which is an outdoor film screenings in a scenic, garden-like setting, to name just a few!
Spa & Wellness
The visit wouldn’t be complete without a quick stop at the Spa, this really is a haven of tranquility and luxury. With its extensive range of treatments, barbers, dentistry, hair salon from massages to advanced skincare, and its serene, beautifully designed spaces, the Spa is a sanctuary that promotes holistic well-being.
Children's Facilities
Celebrity Apex offers a range of facilities and activities designed to entertain and engage children and families. Here’s an overview of the children’s facilities on board:
Celebrity’s signature youth program, Camp at Sea, is divided into age-specific groups to ensure that activities are appropriate and engaging for all children ranging from 3 to 17 years. Under 3’s are also well catered for with their own dedicated ‘toddler space’ which provides a safe space for parents and toddlers to play. Babysitting is also available on board for an additional fee.
Celebrity also run an Arts and Crafts programme, which offers creative workshops and sessions held in dedicated areas. Projects designed in mind for a wide variety of age groups.
The Celebrity iLounge offers computer classes and gaming sessions in a safe and controlled environment for older children and teens to explore technology.
There is even a multipurpose Sports Court on board which offers Basketball, football, and other sports activities. Open for free play and organised tournaments.
My day aboard the Celebrity Apex was nothing short of amazing! The ship is a true reflection of Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to providing a luxurious, modern, and innovative cruising experience. As a travel expert, experiencing the ship firsthand has equipped me with invaluable insights that I can share with you all.
Ready to plan your unforgettable cruise holiday, or would like more information on Celebrity Cruises? Contact me today, and let's turn your dream holiday into reality!
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