Final Thoughts

The Century

This was our 4^th cruise, and our 3^rd with Celebrity.  The Century is the oldest ship in Celebrity’s fleet, and in some ways it shows in the onboard design – having travelled on later ships you can see the lessons that have been learnt over time.  She is due a major refit in May 2006, and that should build on the lessons learnt.  It should also improve the areas of the ship that are starting looking a little worn - although I should emphasise that this is only by comparing against Celebrity's own high standards.  The Century is in better condition than practically every hotel (and most private homes, including my own :-) ) that I have ever stayed in.  Equally, we could not fault the service that we received from all on board - restaurant staff, stateroom attendants, bar and entertainment staff and general crew.  The service received again puts practically every hotel that I have stayed in in the shade.

The mix of customers on this date was slightly unusual compared to my previous experience with Celebrity.  A large proportion (more than half) came from Europe (mainly the UK, Germany, the Netherlands), although I believe that there were in the region of 60 different nationalities on board.  I also met a greater number of first time cruisers than on previous trips, and as many of them were British we had the usual service charge debate ("Is this compulsory?" "Legally no, morally yes!")  (For US readers, the only service charges that the British are used to paying is in good restaurants, taxis and hairdressers!)  The main difference that I could see was in the interpretations of the formal night dress code.  In previous Celebrity cruises, I would estimate that 75% on the men wore black tie.  It was less than half on this cruise, with the remainder in jacket and tie.  Mind you, there were a few kilts and sari's to compensate!

In summary, we would have no hesitation in cruising with Celebrity again (and we almost certainly will, probably sooner rather than later).  Whilst (all other things being equal) the Century would not be our first choice of Celebrity ship (at least, not until after it has been refitted), if the itinerary was suitably attractive we would happily sail on her again tomorrow.

The Destinations

As to the destinations that we visited, this was a port intensive cruise compared to others.  None of the destinations are "lie-on-a-beach" ports - they all require some effort to get the best out of them.  Over 12 days, we had 4 days at sea, visited 7 different countries, and handled 6 different currencies. 

All of the destinations are worth visiting, each with their own attractions, and we could have spent twice as long in most ports.  Each destination (with the exception of St Petersburg) can easily be explored independently – the ship is moored within either walking distance or a short shuttle bus from the main tourist attractions.  However, the most memorable destination for us was definitely St Petersburg, and there a guide of some sorts is more or less essential.  Once again, if you put in a little preparatory work and use a local independent company you will see much more of St Petersburg than with the on-board excursions.

Summary

This was not a cruise for people whose idea of a good vacation is to lounge around on a ship all day soaking in the sun with a book and a beer.  Not least, the weather is unlikely to allow it!  Rather, it is for those who like to get off the ship and explore a variety of different cultures and cities in a short time.  It will also provide a good indication as to which countries you would like to go back to and spend further time exploring them in greater depth.

It is highly recommended.