Celebrity Solstice – December 13, 2018 as she passes Devonport en route to Auckland, NZ
Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
Ship: Solstice (S-Class)
Sail Dates: December 13 – 23, 2018
Destination: New Zealand (Auckland to Sydney)
Stateroom: Aquaclass (AQ1) – 1672 (Aft Deck 11)
Booking Details:
We booked this cruise two years ago while sailing on Celebrity as an on board booking and then transferred it immediately to our awesome Travel Agent (TA). The on board booking included two perks of which we selected the classic beverage package and pre-paid gratuities. We also received as on on board booking bonus, non-refundable on board credit [OBC] from which we used to purchase unlimited WIFI for one device (utilizing our 30% Elite discount off the 10% pre-cruise rate). In addition, as we had this reservation transferred to our TA, we received a substantial amount of refundable OBC.
Closer to the sail date, we upgraded our classic beverage package to premium, when Celebrity offered a pre-cruise sale that we couldn’t pass up. Therefore, in the end – we had all four perks at much less than the going rate for the “Go Best” package (the only overall difference was WIFI for one device, vs. two – which for us, wasn’t a concern).
Cabin Selection: Aqua Class # 1672 (AQ1)
The Celebrity Solstice is the *only* ship within the Solstice-Class family (Reflection, Solstice, Eclipse, Equinox, and Silhouette) that offers Aqua Class cabins at the back (aft) of the ship; there are five (5) in total on Deck 11. Our initial cabin was initially at the front of the ship, but when #1672 became available, we jumped at the opportunity to change cabins. Although #1672 (along with #1688) have the smallest verandas of the five, we were pleased as punch to have one of these coveted cabins that offered spectacular views of the wake from our balcony. The location was a dream and we spent a lot of time on our balcony, especially during sail in/outs from the amazing ports of call within New Zealand. As well, it was an incredible location to experience the beautiful scenery of Fjordland. Finally, this location was very quiet and we enjoyed the peace and solitude that it offered.
Spectacular views from our AFT AquaClass Balcony:
This is just a sampler of what an aft balcony offers! more photos throughout the blog.
Stirling Falls of Milford Sound, New Zealand (Fjordland)
Disembarkation Port – Sydney Harbour, Australia
Travel Agent:
April Martinez, Cruise Consultant
Cruise Vacation Outlet
5575 South Semoran Blvd #4
Orlando, Florida 32822
1-800-797-4635, Ext 105#
email: april@cruisevacationoutlet.com
Baskey Travelogues 