Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Mercury

Overview

Not quite identical, these sister ships nevertheless have essentially the same layout, though they differ dramatically in decor. Century has an eclectic air, while Mercury is more traditional in design and quietly elegant. All display fine collections of modern and classical art. With an additional 50 feet in length, Mercury has room for children's pools as well as a third swimming pool with a sliding roof for cover in inclement weather. A 2006 rejuvenation of Century added 14 suites and 10 staterooms (both inside and outside), not to mention 314 verandas, the most ever added to an existing cruise ship).

Each vessel has facilities for children and teens, but on Mercury they seem almost an afterthought. Adults fare better with spectacular spas and sophisticated lounges dedicated to a variety of tastes. The dining rooms are nothing short of gorgeous. Overall, the first impression is that these are fine resort hotels that just happen to float.