Six reasons why Celebrity has the Edge

Prepare to be tempted

Since its launch in early 2019, Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Cruises’ latest and most innovative new ship, has quite rightly attracted a wealth of media attention for its stunning interiors (courtesy of Kelly Hoppen), its revolutionary movable ‘magic carpet’ deck (courtesy of some very clever engineers) and its cutting edge (sorry) on-board experiences. Here are six of my own favourite moments.

Eden – resist everything except temptation

Much more than a garden, this is an exotic and sensory space in which to relax, frolic and (of course) be tempted. Situated at the stern of the ship, it rises up through three floors and features a raised circular platform that hosts evening performance art by woodnymphs, somewhat scantily clad and with the emphasis on bucolic pleasures. By day it’s a cafe and light lunch spot in which to relax. Let your inhibitions go and set your senses free (says the brochure). Permission granted!

A sweeping upper walkway is a perfect spot for overlooking the ‘Edenists’ playing below, and occasionally cavorting past with a mischievous glint in their eyes. Or avert your eyes for a more wholesome gaze out across the ocean where floor to ceiling glass ensures an uninterrupted view. Here, paradise is truly regained. 

Suite life

Suite class offers a luxurious stateroom and balcony, large bathroom and sumptuous space. You’ll also have access to The Retreat, an exclusive area of sundecks and pools for suite guest only, and a 24/7 lounge. For dining, the 9th floor Luminae restaurant awaits, with exceptional food, wines and service plus floor to ceiling views out to sea.

Ascending a little higher? The Penthouse suites, Iconic suites and Edge Villas at the top of the ship raise the bar even further. Think luxury and indulgence, wide terraces, butler service and space for up 6 people. Perfect for an extended family to spread out and enjoy a special celebration.

Stretch your legs

The ship feels so spacious that you’ll take a day or two to get your bearings, and part of the pleasure of the walk from fore to aft is how much there is to discover along the way. A little peckish mid-stride? Several of the restaurants offer tasting stations so you can break your stroll and sample your next meal.

Up on the 17th floor, winding around the rooftop garden is the walking or (if you are feeling lively) jogging track. Besides great views, it’s a place to meet other guests enjoying time in the gardens. There’s a nice twist too in that the track actually takes you up and down via a long smooth ramp down onto deck 16 where the main pool and sun deck are situated. Don’t worry, it’s very accessible and also protected by windows, so it’s just breezy enough to take in the sea air without feeling blustered.

Dine & wine

As you’d expect on such an innovative ship, there’s a wealth of options where eating and drinking are concerned. With 29 (yes 29) restaurants, cafes, lounges and bars, my highlights were Eden cafe with its sandwich and salad bar as a day-time pit-stop (were those night-time nymphs just my imagination?), the Grand Plaza, which is the heart of the ship with a three-storey space with entertainment and a great buzz, offers a Martini Bar and two all-day cafes .

Speciality dining includes the Fine Cut Steakhouse, serving tasty cuts and the freshest seafood, and Le Grand Bistro, a true Parisien-style bistro, including an animated ‘Petit Chef’ who helps prepare your meal right in front of you. Also, on deck 5 nearby, is the fabulously indulgent ‘Raw on 5’, serving sashimi, caviar and a wide range of hot and cold seafood, together with a Champagne and Vodka menu no less! Also, up high on 16 is the Rooftop Garden Grill offering gourmet BBQ favourites. This is a lively, spacious environment where you are invited to ‘awaken your inner child’ as you get your hands on a juicy burger, bratwurst hotdog or shrimp kebab. Did someone say burger?

The Spa

The perfect spot for rejuvenation and pampering, with every imaginable treatment on offer and a few you haven’t even thought of. I tried out the Fire & Ice pedicure with alternating wraps of hot pebbles and ice cubes. It sounds bizarre but is extremely relaxing and left my legs feeling like they could dance Swan Lake!  And of course, it’s a pedicure with a view; being pampered whilst gazing out at the ocean is highly recommended. And for those with a more practical concern of turning back the clock, there’s a wide range of treatments including teeth whitening, dermal fillers and botox – you really can come back from a cruise looking, not just feeling, 10 years younger!

The Entertainment

A Movie with a View - not the title of a film, but the name of an experience at the Rooftop Garden Cinema with rugs and a hot drink. It’s such a British habit to have a cup of tea, although naturally other beverages are available!

Or if you prefer live entertainment, The Theatre is the place.  On our voyage there was a matchless performance by the winner from America’s Got Talent; a world-class voice and a troupe of world-class dancers to accompany. Throw in a live band and an incredible light show and your hands are applauding as much as your feet are tapping. This is 5-star entertainment in a truly stunning theatre. The lighting, back-projections and sound-system are state of the art. It’s described as experiential, which is one usually one of my least favourite words, but here it’s the right one – a completely immersive experience.

Tempted by Celebrity Edge? I do hope so.

Silver Travel Advisor recommends Celebrity Cruises.

See also

• Celebrity Edge by Mike Pickup
• Celebrity Edge of Glory by Louise Robinson

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