Forget about the overrated pomp and pageantry that's typically associated with new cruise ships. Celebrity Cruises latest addition Celebrity Silhouette provides you with understated sophistication and personalized pampering that you'll remember long after your dream voyage returns to port.
Brian Powell, Associate Vice President of Marketing at Celebrity Cruises is an expert when it comes to luxury sailings. The veteran high seas voyager gives us an insider's look at Celebrity Silhouette and shares advice on how to make the most of your time on a high-class cruise in this exclusive LoveToKnow interview:
Setting Sail on Celebrity Silhouette
LoveToKnow (LTK): The Silhouette is a 122,400-ton floating masterpiece that can accommodate nearly 3,000 passengers. It launched on July 21, 2011, as the fourth ship in Celebrity's Solstice-class. Like its sister ships it has a number of incredible features, could you describe the ones that are most impressive?
Brian Powell (BP): When we introduced Celebrity Solstice in 2008, we wanted to change the way people view cruise vacations, with the hip, cool style of public spaces to the variety and quality of culinary experiences onboard. We continue to raise the bar in our attempts to exceed passengers' expectations with the introduction of our AquaClass staterooms, inspired by the spa enthusiast lifestyle. In addition, the creation of the first Lawn Club - a top-deck lawn of real, growing grass - at sea, is a real crowd pleaser, and one of the hallmarks of our Solstice Class that has truly redefined cruising. The ship also offers another entirely new venue, The Hideaway, an intimate, quiet space reminiscent of a childhood tree house.
LTK: What new dining options are available?
BP: Celebrity Silhouette has introduced a whole new set of spaces on and around our Lawn Club. These include:
- The interactive Lawn Club Grill: A place where guests can select and grill their own meats side-by-side with our expert chefs, or have them cooked to order
- The Porch: A breezy, casual dining spot offering sandwiches, coffees and captivating views of the sea and the ship's lush lawn
- The Alcoves: A collection of relaxing, private, Wi-Fi-equipped cabanas where you can indulge in gourmet picnic food
In addition, we've added a new twist on Celebrity's Michael's Club, with a selection of more than 50 beers from around the world, including craft beers. In total, there are seven specialty restaurants on Celebrity Silhouette, as well as a main dining room and multiple casual dining venues.
Tips for Selecting the Best Cabins
LTK: The luxury vessel boasts phenomenal staterooms and suites. What advice can you give those trying to decide which type of cabin to book?
BP: All of our staterooms and suites feature exceptional service, luxurious bedding, flat-screen TVs and comfortable showers. Someone seeking the most sumptuous experience should consider booking a Sky Suite or Royal Suite, which brings butler service, more seating areas and space, and the opportunity to enjoy special perks such as assistance unpacking and complimentary espresso and cappuccino into the mix. If a truly relaxing experience is the goal, I recommend our AquaClass staterooms, which are located near the AquaSpa and feature unlimited access to the Persian Garden aromatherapy room and Relaxation Room, exclusive dining in the specialty restaurant Blu, flavored teas, pampering in-stateroom lotions and other amenities.
Insider Advice
LTK: What insider tips can you give guests that will help enhance their experience on the Silhouette?
BP: Don't miss out on the experiences at The Lawn Club. Whether you want to play bocce or croquet, relax in one of The Alcoves for the day, or if you simply like to feel cool grass beneath your feet while gazing miles out at sea, The Lawn Club is one of the most unique venues around.
If you haven't vacationed with us before, come prepared to immerse yourself in culture, luxury and exhilaration. Book a treatment in the AquaSpa, or fall in love with a new favorite wine in Cellar Masters. Of course, if you have vacationed with us and are a member of our Captain's Club loyalty program, you will have even more opportunities for us to put you at the center of our attention, from an officers' cocktail party to special laundry and Internet benefits.
Whether this is your first Celebrity vacation or your fifth, my utmost advice for getting the most out of a cruise on Celebrity Silhouette is to step onboard prepared to relax, take in the stylish, luxurious surroundings, and let us do what we do: give you the best vacation possible.
Ways to Save
LTK: Some potential cruisers may be intimidated to take a luxury cruise. However, with a little research there are ways to save on opulent high seas adventures. What types of deals are available at Celebrity Cruises?
BP: We strive to make luxury sailings accessible for even the most budget-conscious travelers. In you are interested in being pampered from head-to-toe on one of our magnificent ships, visit our "Specials" page to view ways you can enjoyed reduced rates and access other ways you can get more from your cruise vacation for less. You can also get the latest information on Celebrity sailings on our Facebook page.
Bon Voyage!
Whether you dream voyage takes you to the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, make sure all of your needs and wants are being met. A truly memorable cruise exceeds all of your expectations and makes you feel at home on the high seas. That's something you can't put a price tag on.
