Celebrity Cruises

Overview

The Chandris Group, owners of budget Fantasy Cruises, founded Celebrity in 1989. Initially utilizing an unlovely, refurbished former ocean liner from the Fantasy fleet, Celebrity gained a reputation for fine food and professional service despite the shabby-chic vessel where it was elegantly served. The cruise line eventually built premium, sophisticated cruise ships. Signature amenities followed, including a martini bar, large standard staterooms with generous storage, fully equipped spas, and butler service for top suites. Valuable art collections grace the fleet, which merged with Royal Caribbean International in 1997.

Even as Constellation and Summit passengers have been treated to 30-minute performances of "A Taste of Cirque du Soleil," a unique concept at sea, entertainment has never been a primary focus; a lineup of lavish, although somewhat uninspired, revues is presented in the main show lounges by production companies of singers and dancers. In addition to shows featuring comedians, magicians, and jugglers, bands play a wide range of musical styles for dancing and listening in smaller lounges. Cirque du Soleil performers add an interactive element to the custom-built Bar at the Edge of the Earth on Constellation.

Two to five guest lecturers participate in the Enrichment Series program on every Celebrity cruise. Presentations may range from financial strategies, astronomy, wine appreciation, photography tips, and politics to the food, history, and culture of ports of call. Culinary demonstrations, bingo, and art auctions are additional diversions throughout the fleet. There are plenty of activities, although you'll have to read the daily program of events to find out about them. There are no public address announcements for bingo or hawking of gold-by-the-inch sales. You can still play and buy, but you won't be reminded repeatedly.

While spacious accommodations in every category are a Celebrity standard, the addition of ConciergeClass, an upscale element on all ships, makes certain premium ocean-view and balcony staterooms almost the equivalent of suites in terms of service. A ConciergeClass stateroom includes numerous extras such as chilled champagne, fresh fruit, and flowers upon arrival, exclusive room-service menus, evening canapés, luxury bedding, pillows, and linens, upgraded balcony furnishings, priority boarding and luggage service, and other VIP perks. At the touch of a single telephone button, a ConciergeClass desk representative is at hand to offer assistance. Suites are still the ultimate, though, and include the services of a butler to assist with unpacking, booking spa services and dining reservations, shining shoes, and even replacing a popped button.

1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL, 33132. 800/647-2251. www.celebritycruises.com. Cruise Style: Premium.