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Day 6 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise on Symphony of the Seas was a sea day and realizing the cruise was quickly winding down we had a few more spots on the ship to tick off our list before the highly anticipated lobster night on a cruise.
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 | Day 4 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise was a port day in lovely Aruba. We did not plan an excursion in advance and decided to DIY a low key day on the island and revisited a yummy foodie spot. |
Free Shuttle from Aruba Cruise Port
After waking up to this gorgeous water view from our Oceanview cabin (room tour with photos and review here), we were eager to start our day on Aruba.
Conveniently, after exiting the ship's gangway there were shuttle buses waiting to take cruise ship passengers to the main gate.
Conveniently, after exiting the ship's gangway there were shuttle buses waiting to take cruise ship passengers to the main gate.
The shuttle buses were free (hooray!) and had comical names like "Honey Boy" and "Lady Blue".
They were clearly marked with the name of our ship, Symphony of the Seas.
They were clearly marked with the name of our ship, Symphony of the Seas.
Aruba Cruise Port
For those with limited mobility, there is plenty of shopping to do in the main port area.
If you're able to walk a bit more you can check out the "local market".
At the main intersection walk left, and you'll see the sign for the local market right across from the I ❤︎ Aruba sign.
Souvenirs in Aruba Cruise Port
There are plenty of classic t shirts, ball caps, and magnets available to purchase in port (pics to come), but there are also some more unique items from local artisans to consider!
The colorful boho sandals were calling my name, but I restrained because I was afraid they were too flat for my feet. :(
Knock Off Ray Ban Sunglasses in Aruba Cruise Port
I got a kick out of this sunglasses display which announces that all of the $25 sunglasses are fake items. lol.
But hey if you want some D&G, Chanel, or Ray Bans ....
But hey if you want some D&G, Chanel, or Ray Bans ....
Cute paintings and decorative signs for your home.
Cost of Souvenir Hats in Aruba
Loads of souvenir hats and visors were available. As seen below the prices at this shop ranged from $5-8.
The Paddock
The Paddock is located in walking distance from the port in Oranjestad, Aruba.
A popular spot due to it's convenient location and vibe, a bucket of 5 local beers would set you back just $20 and a meal consisting of French bread, chicken salad, and fries ran $10.
A popular spot due to it's convenient location and vibe, a bucket of 5 local beers would set you back just $20 and a meal consisting of French bread, chicken salad, and fries ran $10.
If you want to leave your mark you can leave a $1 bill on the wall and sign your name and where you're from.
I do believe this was also a spot where you could catch wifi in Aruba cruise port.
I do believe this was also a spot where you could catch wifi in Aruba cruise port.
Walking Around Oranjestad
Beyond the ornate, colorful buildings when you first enter the town, we strolled beyond the main strip of stores and toward the far end of the marina.
A pair of giant flamingos nuzzling stood between the yachts and the cruise ships in the distance. It looks like Carnival was also in port with us on this day.
This was just at the edge of the Renaissance Marketplace in the Aruba cruise port where we found a really cool store.
Mopa Mopa Aruba
This store was filled with unique and intricately decorated home decor.
Have you heard of the Mopa Mopa Tree?
Much to my surprise, these items are not painted. Rather they are decorated using a centuries old technique of extracting resin from the Mopa Mopa Tree.
Inside the store you could ask an associate and read other information to learn about this unique art form. They do accept all major credit cards, so if you don't have enough cash on you for one of these treasures, don't worry.
I think this is a very cool store to walk around and learn about this unique craft even if you're not in the market for a piece.
I think this is a very cool store to walk around and learn about this unique craft even if you're not in the market for a piece.
Murals by Armando Goedgedrag
Absolutely incredible art murals can be seen on the sides of buildings in the Renaissance Marketplace which have been painted by the very talented Armando Goedgedrag.
It's very cool to see support for local artists like this and it really adds to the vibrance of Oranjestad, don't you agree?!
Wilhelmina Park, Oranjestad
Wilhelmina Park in Oranjestad is a well-manicured park with a nice walkway stroll through.
Here in this park you will see a statue of Anne Frank.
As well as Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands whom the park is named after. She reigned from 1890 until her abdication in 1948.
Queen Wilhelmina was the longest raining monarch in Dutch history. Apparently she was also the world's first female billionaire.
Her park is also full of iguanas!! It's hard to tell from the photo, but they are quite large!
Mangroves and Beaches
There is a wooden boardwalk from Governors Bay Beach in Oranjestad which allows you to enjoy views of Banyan Trees.
These cool trees have aerial roots that grow into accessory trunks. Over time a Banyan tree can cover several acres - isn't that insane?!
It was hard to pass up an opportunity to walk down through this banyan tree and onto a beach via this sort of secret path.
The beach area here was quite narrow, but felt private. There was no one in sight although it was not that far from the main Governor's Beach area.
When traveling, very often you are rewarded when you're willing to take just a few extra steps.
Continuing on toward Surfside Beach, we passed some more incredible trees like this Acacia tree.
And I found it fascinating how this tree looked like it was currently caught in a violent windstorm although the weather was calm. :)
We finally made it to Surfside Beach!
There were just a few families there. With plenty of trees to catch some shade from or sit on, I really enjoyed this beach!
By the way, all beaches in Aruba are free. :)
The Pastechi House
There was one last stop we wanted to make before heading back to our cruise ship after this day in Oranjestad.
That stop was The Pastechi House.
We visited The Pastechi House on an ABC islands cruise back in 2017 or around there and were thrilled to see it survived through the pandemic, though it was a struggle the owner shared.
Pastechi House Menu with Prices
Pastechi is an ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) version of an empanada and they are tasty!!
We also nabbed ourselves a fresh orange juice which was a tad bit more expensive than in Portugal.
Just outside The Pastechi House was this spectacular rooster ...
Even more exciting was the exotic black, white, and orange bird in this palm tree! It appears to be a Venezuelan Troupial!
Downtown Oranjestad
It was time to make our way back through downtown Oranjestad and to the cruise ship terminal, past the blue horse ...
Beyond all the cute buildings ...
Took one last look at the cutest souvenirs for anyone who loves a cultural touch!
Probably should have gotten a Where's my Pastechi at!? mug.
It was a cool honor system sort of set up where when the artist wasn't there in person (like the day we were there), you could snap a picture of what you wanted to by, message her on whatsapp and then send the payment to her!
I Heart Aruba Sign
Don't forget, you can't leave the island without snapping a pic of the I ❤︎ Aruba sign, can you?
We got back on board Symphony of the Seas and headed to our room to get ready for dinner - Caribbean Night!
We returned to a cute little towel animal welcoming us back and I put on the closest thing to a "Caribbean" themed outfit as I had for dinner in the main dining room.
Outfit: Quince European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt, Etsy Skirt, Nisolo Bag, Melrie Jewelry
A Taste of the Caribbean Menu
After a lovely day exploring Aruba, we were ready for dinner in the main dining room onboard Symphony of the Seas. Tap the menu to see what we ordered!
A Taste of the Caribbean Menu
Utopia of the Seas "The World's Biggest Weekend" Review in Photos
Utopia of the Seas began sailing in July 2024 as the sixth Oasis Class Ship in the Royal Caribbean Fleet and my lovely friend Evelyn enjoyed sailing during Utopia's inaugural season along with her husband and daughter in a 1D Ocean View Balcony 11658.
Please enjoy the photos she has graciously shared!
Please enjoy the photos she has graciously shared!
Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas
From elaborate displays as seen above and monkey scavenger hunts to unique art displays throughout the ship, Utopia of the Seas is a fun-filled short cruise vacation for anyone who wants to get away but doesn't have loads of time off.
Boardwalk Neighborhood on Utopia of the Seas
An iconic feature of all Oasis Class ships is the carousel on the boardwalk. The carousel is free to ride as many times as you'd like and makes for a great photo with the ship name in the background and the mirrored purple Ultimate Abyss slides.
Carousel onboard Utopia of the Seas cruise ship
If you spend some time in the Boardwalk neighborhood, you may find one of the jewel eyed monkeys!
Jewel Eyed Monkey Scavenger Hunt on Utopia of the Seas
Central Park NEIGHBORHOOD ON UTOPIA OF THE SEAS
Central Park is a relaxing area of Oasis Class ships that allows you to feel as if you're strolling through New York City's famous public park in Manhattan.
You are welcomed to the neighborhood with a map to orient yourself.
You are welcomed to the neighborhood with a map to orient yourself.
Central Park on Utopia of the Seas
Nestled between over 20,000 tropical plants (on a cruise ship!!) you will find unique art pieces like this elephant ...
Elephant Statue and Tropical Snake Plants in Central Park Utopia of the Seas
or this glorious metallic bonsai tree statue!
Bonsai Tree Statue in Central Park on Utopia of the Seas
All the plants you see, including this multi-story green wall, are live plants which is pretty neat when you think about the fact that you're in the middle of the ocean surrounded by a mini botanical garden!
Living Wall on Utopia of the Seas
In Central Park you can visit some specialty dining restaurants, do some shopping, enjoy live music with a cocktail, or take a romantic stroll through the park!
Central Park at Night on Utopia of the Seas
Royal Promenade ON UTOPIA OF THE SEAS
The Royal Promenade is a lively hub on Utopia of the Seas. Live music, parades, balloon drops, and late night pizza slices await you!
Royal Promenade on Utopia of the Seas
Large and unique art installations like these giant seashells are placed all around the ship for you to discover, admire, or shrug at.
Sea shell art installation on Utopia of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas Art
If you're trying not to bring back a kilo or two as a cruise souvenir, one of the best things you can do is take the stairs. You'll be rewarded with unique wall art on every floor!
Tropical Fruit Wall Art on Utopia of the Seas
For any who enjoy going to art museums, you basically have a mini art museum onboard the ship! Besides that actual art gallery you can combine exercise and art appreciation as you go up (or more likely down) stairs all around the ship.
Floral Wall Art on Utopia of the Seas
There is no one singular style, but something different for every taste - surprise waiting around every corner!
Tropical Island Vibes Wall Art on Utopia of the Seas
Have you ever made it a point to check out the artwork at the landing of each staircase on a cruise ship?
Utopia of the Seas Pool Deck
After doing a few flights of stairs you're probably ready for a dip in the pool or maybe a nice cold beverage from Lime and Coconut pool bar.
View of Utopia of the Seas Pool Deck + Lime and Coconut Bar
If you want a quieter pool experience, try the adults-only solarium.
Solarium on Utopia of the Seas
Ultimate Abyss Dry Slide
When you're done relaxing and want a quick thrill, grab a mat and slide from the deck 16 down to the Boardwalk on deck 6 with the Ultimate Abyss dry slide.
Ultimate Abyss on Utopia of the Seas
The Ultimate Abyss on Utopia of the Seas is 259 feet long, 43 feet longer than previous versions, making this the biggest thrill yet!
Manta Rays on Utopia of the Seas
Even the elevators on Utopia of the Seas are entertaining as you catch glimpses of five colorful suspended manta ray sculptures in the elevator shafts.
Artlink's Manta Ray Installation on Utopia of the Seas
Crown & Anchor Society
Crown and Anchor Society is Royal Caribbean's loyalty program, but even if it's your first RC cruise you can relax on this super cute boat couch! :)
Crown and Anchor Society on Utopia of the Seas
Can you find the wine window?
Wine Window on Utopia of the Seas
Pesky Parrot Bar Utopia of the Seas
Pesky Parrot Tiki Bar on Utopia of the Seas
The Pesky Parrot actually replaced the Bionic Bar found on other Oasis Class ships.
Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Bahamas
Utopia of the Seas sailings are visiting the awesome Perfect Day at Coco Cay private island on Bahamas.
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
There's a lot to discover on this private island for Royal Caribbean (and Celebrity) guests, so plan to come back on a future cruise.
Sand Sculpture on Perfect Day Coco Cay Private Island
Liberty of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas side by side at Perfect Day at Coco Cay cruise port in Bahamas.
Utopia of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas dock side-by-side at Perfect Day, Bahamas
Utopia of the Seas Review
I asked Evelyn what she thought of her Utopia of the Seas family cruise and here's what she said:
Client Review of Utopia of the Seas
Enough said.. :) The AquaTheater is pretty cool!
Until Next Time, Utopia!
Utopia of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's newest ships and is geared toward awesome short getaways out of Port Canaveral, Florida aka Orlando cruise port.
Nothing beats a sunrise or a sunset from a cruise ship
The Bazaar is one of the ways Celebrity Xcel will be different, an exciting reveal about Celebrity's new ship for 2025 that has just been announced.
The Bazaar on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises
What is the Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel?
Celebrity Cruises aims to 'erase the line between ship and shore' with their new and dynamic Bazaar concept spanning over 3 stories.
The Bazaar will combine entertainment, shopping, and dining along with culturally immersive experiences like cooking classes and dance lessons on a cruise all inspired by the destinations you will be traveling to.
The Bazaar will combine entertainment, shopping, and dining along with culturally immersive experiences like cooking classes and dance lessons on a cruise all inspired by the destinations you will be traveling to.
Is The Bazaar Replacing Eden?
Yes, it does appear that The Bazaar will be replacing Eden. Personally, I really enjoyed Eden on Celebrity Ascent, and apparently a lot of other people did as well, but let's face it .. variety is the spice of life!
Keeping every ship totally identical could be boring, so it's nice to see a new concept introduced on Celebrity's new ship in 2025. Maybe you'll love it, maybe you'll hate it, but you never know until you try right?! ;)
Keeping every ship totally identical could be boring, so it's nice to see a new concept introduced on Celebrity's new ship in 2025. Maybe you'll love it, maybe you'll hate it, but you never know until you try right?! ;)
If you want an opportunity to influence the development of The Bazaar on Xcel, sign up for Celebrity Dream Makers! You may even win a free sailing! 8)
Which deck is the Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel?
The Bazaar spans 3 decks on Celebrity Xcel - Decks 6, 5, and 4. Pop-up entertainment, performances from local musicians, and destination-inspired festivals will be enjoyed all around.
When you are ready to shop for some unique gifts and souvenirs, The Market at The Bazaar is located on Deck 5 along with the casual dining venue Spice. On deck 4 you will find Mosaic Restaurant.
When you are ready to shop for some unique gifts and souvenirs, The Market at The Bazaar is located on Deck 5 along with the casual dining venue Spice. On deck 4 you will find Mosaic Restaurant.
Celebrity Xcel Deck Maps - The Bazaar
The Bazaar is located at the Aft (rear) of Celebrity Xcel.
Is Mosaic Restaurant Free or Paid on Xcel?
Mosaic is a stunning open kitchen concept with culinary delights that reflect the ports of call, rather than having a set menu for the duration of the cruise.
Mosaic Restaurant on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises
Mosaic will surely be a paid, specialty restaurant on Xcel.
Also hosted at Mosaic will be the Chef's Table at Mosaic experience where you will enjoy a multi-course tasting menu of dishes from all continents developed from childhood favorites of the native cuisine of Celebrity's global culinary leadership team, along with wine pairings.
For the foodies, Chef's Studio at Mosaic is a not-to-be-missed activity throughout the voyage. This cooking school on a cruise ship will allow guests to learn to cook regional delicacies and local favorites from each destination they visit. When they return home, they can use these newly developed skills and recipes to make a meal Inspired By Travel for those who couldn't cruise with them (this time). ;)
Also hosted at Mosaic will be the Chef's Table at Mosaic experience where you will enjoy a multi-course tasting menu of dishes from all continents developed from childhood favorites of the native cuisine of Celebrity's global culinary leadership team, along with wine pairings.
For the foodies, Chef's Studio at Mosaic is a not-to-be-missed activity throughout the voyage. This cooking school on a cruise ship will allow guests to learn to cook regional delicacies and local favorites from each destination they visit. When they return home, they can use these newly developed skills and recipes to make a meal Inspired By Travel for those who couldn't cruise with them (this time). ;)
Is Spice Free or Paid on Xcel?
Spice on Xcel should be replacing Eden Cafe which was a complimentary dining venue on previous Edge Class Ships. The seating area will provide spectacular sea and port views with its floor-to-ceiling windows. While enjoying the views, guests will nosh on rotating bites including... you guessed it... items inspired by the ports visited on the itinerary.
I think you're getting the theme here...
I think you're getting the theme here...
Spice on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises
The Market at The Bazaar on xcel
The Market on Xcel should add some really unique shopping options on the ship for those who aren't looking for a luxury watch or a magnet that says "St. Thomas".
The Market on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises
In fact, local artisans will come onboard to showcase their crafts, skills, and traditions. Demonstrations and tastings will happen in this area - think basket weaving demos and local hot sauce tastings, for example. There's also word of rum and chocolate pairings which sounds like a great time!
With its content changing multiple times throughout the cruise, the Market will be a spot to revist throughout your sailing!
With its content changing multiple times throughout the cruise, the Market will be a spot to revist throughout your sailing!
The Bazaar Concept Review on xcel
The Bazaar concept is really promising! If well executed, it will provide engaging and enriching experiences for cruisers on Xcel - both paid and unpaid.
Not all passengers have the budget for a lot of extras, so the ship itself should have plenty to enjoy. For those with extra pocket change or who have sailed several times, it's nice to come back to a familiar ship and have varied experiences.
Every itinerary you sail on will have different entertainment and cuisine, which is very cool!
Not all passengers have the budget for a lot of extras, so the ship itself should have plenty to enjoy. For those with extra pocket change or who have sailed several times, it's nice to come back to a familiar ship and have varied experiences.
Every itinerary you sail on will have different entertainment and cuisine, which is very cool!
Presumably from the photos, the use of screens will enable the entrance to The Bazaar, called the Xcel Tunnel, and the main areas to transform with culturally on-theme designs for the festival being showcased that day. I might be totally wrong about that and would be happy to be wrong, but it seems likely and practical.
Personally, I am not a fan of having screens everywhere (I'm kind of over screens, aren't you?), but I can see how they enable creating a new immersive environment with ease multiple times during each itinerary and could be done tastefully. What do you think?
Personally, I am not a fan of having screens everywhere (I'm kind of over screens, aren't you?), but I can see how they enable creating a new immersive environment with ease multiple times during each itinerary and could be done tastefully. What do you think?
One last thing. Some people are saying things like "If I want to see an artisan, I'm going to get off the ship and see them in destination." That is totally valid. I agree, I think the ultimate experience is had on location, however that doesn't mean I wouldn't also enjoy it on the ship!
For sure some passengers won't have ability to do an excursion and sometimes can't even get off the ship for one reason or another. With that in mind, I think it's fabulous they can get some cultural enrichment without leaving the ship - whether that's in port or on a sea day.
And besides, unless you know someone local or are exploring completely DIY, there's a pretty good chance you're getting at least a semi-manufactured experience in port anyway. lol That's not necessarily a bad thing as it allows you to get the most out of a short time in port! Just keeping it real over here :)
For sure some passengers won't have ability to do an excursion and sometimes can't even get off the ship for one reason or another. With that in mind, I think it's fabulous they can get some cultural enrichment without leaving the ship - whether that's in port or on a sea day.
And besides, unless you know someone local or are exploring completely DIY, there's a pretty good chance you're getting at least a semi-manufactured experience in port anyway. lol That's not necessarily a bad thing as it allows you to get the most out of a short time in port! Just keeping it real over here :)
When is Xcel coming to EURope?
Xcel debuts with Caribbean itineraries in November 2025 followed by the 2026 European Cruise season. While cruising Europe, The Bazaar on Xcel will have all new festivals, markets, and culinary experiences inspired by Mediterranean destinations. So cool!
When is Xcel's Transatlantic Sailing?
If you'd like to enjoy all the amenities of Xcel on a transatlantic sailing, April 26, 2026 is the day. A 15-night transatlantic cruise will take you from Ft Lauderdale Florida's Port Everglades to Barcelona, Spain with stops in Bermuda, Azores, Lisbon Portugal, Cartagena, and Mallorca.
Fancy a cruise from Barcelona to Florida? Sail on October 23, 2026 for 16 nights stopping in Cartagena, Malaga, Gibraltar, Seville, Madeira, and Bermuda before disembarking in Miami.
Fancy a cruise from Barcelona to Florida? Sail on October 23, 2026 for 16 nights stopping in Cartagena, Malaga, Gibraltar, Seville, Madeira, and Bermuda before disembarking in Miami.
Not long after announcing the exciting Celebrity Dream Makers program, Celebrity has made an announcement which I for one am hugely excited about:
Celebrity River Cruises
Celebrity is entering the River Cruise market! *cue confetti* What an exciting plot twist!
Photo Celebrity Cruises - This is how we river
Whereas sister brand Royal Caribbean has more recently been embracing the fun mega-ship vibe, Celebrity (my current favorite cruise line) is going for elegance and cultural immersion with this new endeavor.
North Americans are largely familiar with Viking Cruises when it comes to booking River Cruises and they are a luxurious, premium product. I'm eager to see if Celebrity will position themselves as a more affordable option or if they aim to be an apples-to-apples competitor with Viking.
There's a lot of speculation at the moment and many details are yet to be confirmed so this is an exciting time for the cruise industry and let's see how other lines respond to this news.
Here are a few things we know about Celebrity River Cruises:
North Americans are largely familiar with Viking Cruises when it comes to booking River Cruises and they are a luxurious, premium product. I'm eager to see if Celebrity will position themselves as a more affordable option or if they aim to be an apples-to-apples competitor with Viking.
There's a lot of speculation at the moment and many details are yet to be confirmed so this is an exciting time for the cruise industry and let's see how other lines respond to this news.
Here are a few things we know about Celebrity River Cruises:
What is Celebrity River CruiseS?
Celebrity River Cruises is a brand new premium river cruise, designed for those who want a more immersive and culturally enriching cruise experience to unique itineraries.
Why is Celebrity getting into River Cruises?
Celebrity feels it's a natural extension of their brand, and I have to agree. As soon as I heard the news, after recently sailing Celebrity, I thought "Yup, that absolutely fits. How can I get on a Celebrity River Cruise!?" lol
What is the difference between ocean cruises and river cruises?
One huge difference is where River Cruises can take you. Rivers cut through the heart of countries and continents giving you access to explore all new cities with ease!
Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas aren't going to fit down some of these rivers or have the ability to dock at the ports, so these cruises will have smaller ships which can lend to a more tailored experience.
With a huge focus on culture, passengers on Celebrity River Cruises will cherish memories of unique shore experiences and delight in locally inspired cuisine onboard. This is a foodie's dream!
Rivers are also calmer than the wide open ocean, so these European Cruises (to start!) down rivers are an incredible option for those who easily become seasick and thus hesitate to try cruising.
Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas aren't going to fit down some of these rivers or have the ability to dock at the ports, so these cruises will have smaller ships which can lend to a more tailored experience.
With a huge focus on culture, passengers on Celebrity River Cruises will cherish memories of unique shore experiences and delight in locally inspired cuisine onboard. This is a foodie's dream!
Rivers are also calmer than the wide open ocean, so these European Cruises (to start!) down rivers are an incredible option for those who easily become seasick and thus hesitate to try cruising.
When is the first Celebrity River Cruise Sailing?
The inaugural sailing will be in 2027, with booking starting in 2025. Guaranteed this will book up fast, so reach out if you want first dibs when booking opens.
How many Ships Will Be In the Celebrity River Cruises Fleet?
Soooo ... Celebrity is going all in on this venture. They aren't just building one or two new River Cruise ships, but they have TEN ships on their "initial" order! *insert mind blown emoji*
What will the ships look like?
Welp.... you know the Edge Series ships we love so much? :) It seems like Celebrity River Cruises will be mini versions, isn't that so cute?!
Okay I'm not saying they are going to be identical miniatures, but they will be smaller sized ships (exact capacity and specs to come) and they are going to "mirror the quality and sophistication" of the Edge class ships, and I'm totally onboard for that.
No pun intended. :p
Okay I'm not saying they are going to be identical miniatures, but they will be smaller sized ships (exact capacity and specs to come) and they are going to "mirror the quality and sophistication" of the Edge class ships, and I'm totally onboard for that.
No pun intended. :p
Will you be sailing Celebrity River Cruises in 2027?
I'm legit excited to be onboard a Celebrity River Cruise in 2027 to give you the full scoop. Watch this space.
Celebrity - call me.
Celebrity - call me.
You've finally decided on the best Celebrity Ascent itinerary for your next cruise vacation and it's time to choose your stateroom, but you're scratching your head wondering "What exactly is an infinite veranda?!"
Great question. Read on for everything you need to know about the infinite veranda room on Celebrity Ascent including a photo tour of stateroom 8280. ;)
Great question. Read on for everything you need to know about the infinite veranda room on Celebrity Ascent including a photo tour of stateroom 8280. ;)
Royal Caribbean Ship Seen From Celebrity Ascent Infinite Verandah
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What is the infinite veranda on Celebrity?
Infinite Verandas are a category of cruise balcony staterooms on Celebrity Cruises' Edge class ships. The aim is to blur the line between your luxury accommodations and incredible ocean views.
As you can see in the photo below, rather than a heavy sliding glass door standing in the way of you and the ocean air, infinite verandas offer floor to ceiling glass for incredible views and allow you to feel the ocean breeze in your hair at the touch of a button!
As you can see in the photo below, rather than a heavy sliding glass door standing in the way of you and the ocean air, infinite verandas offer floor to ceiling glass for incredible views and allow you to feel the ocean breeze in your hair at the touch of a button!
View of Infinite Verandah Room 8280 on Celebrity Ascent
Infinite Veranda Cabin 8280 Photos
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Let's highlight some features of infinite veranda staterooms on Celebrity Ascent and then we will share our review of this style of room on a cruise ship! These photos are from stateroom 8280 on Ascent during her inaugural year. |
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More Stateroom Tours
- Symphony of the Seas Oceanview Cabin 3198 Room tour with Photos
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Sun Princess Deluxe Balcony Stateroom 11221 Cabin Tour
"We recently had an amazing opportunity to sail around the Mediterranean on the brand new Princess Cruise ship - Sun Princess in her inaugural season. It was an incredible anniversary cruise and we will be sharing highlights from each port, as well as the food, entertainment, and ship itself."
Bathroom - Celebrity Ascent Cabin 8280
Cruise ship bathrooms are notoriously tiny and awkward to maneuver. So let me ask you this, would you believe that the photo below is a cruise ship bathroom!?
Modern Cruise Ship Bathroom on Celebrity Ascent
The shower was spacious and body wash, shampoo, and conditioner were provided. Not all lines (or hotels for that matter) provide conditioner these days...
And no more gross shower curtains. The full glass capsule shower was luxurious and the door was "slow-close" so it never slammed shut on you, which we've experienced on other ships.
Spacious Shower with Glass Door on Celebrity Ascent
The modern design left the bathroom on Ascent feeling spacious, with storage for your toiletries on the counter as well as multiple shelves on either side of the large mirror.
Thoughtful, stylish design on Celebrity Ascent
The bathroom was the first door on the right immediately after entering the stateroom. Next to the door was the digital thermostat which offered a number of room controls as well.
Bathroom Entrance - Infinite Verandah 8280 on Celebrity Ascent
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The touch screen thermostat had additional functions including the lighting of the room. Rather than turning each individual light fixture on or off, you could simply tap a preset including bright, dim, or lights out as well as morning, movie, evening, and sleep!
It is important to note that the air conditioning will not run while the window is open.
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Storage - CELEBRITY ASCENT CABIN 8280
Ascent had so many nooks and crannies that made it one of the most well thought out cruise cabins as far as storage was concerned.
The adorable coral display held the stateroom attendants card (shout out to Kevin!) and felt like a little museum piece on display - an elegant touch!
The adorable coral display held the stateroom attendants card (shout out to Kevin!) and felt like a little museum piece on display - an elegant touch!
The doors above, below, and to the right of the coral opened to reveal shelves for storage and even an umbrella for those port days when you need to dodge the droplets!
Now lets open the doors to the left of the coral display:
Now lets open the doors to the left of the coral display:
The main closet provided ample wooden hangers with clips, a set of drawers, a safe, and robes!
Not to be missed on the door to the left is a full length mirror. :)
Living Space - CELEBRITY ASCENT CABIN 8280
The main living area in the infinite veranda aboard Celebrity Ascent included a couch for relaxing and across the way a set of drawers, mini fridge, and lighted vanity with chair which could certainly function as a small desk space as well.
The drawers were spacious while a central divider helped to keep things tidy. The min fridge was stocked with some Coca-cola, Sprite, Heineken, small liquor bottles and some wine. These are all available for purchase as well as the bottles of water on top.
Inside the white box were some international outlets - 220v, 110v, and 2 USB plugs. It's nice that the international adapter was built in so cruisers from all over would be set even if they forgot theirs! The lid closes to keep cords in order and they can be fed out of the grooves on the front of the box. All in all, this was a nice concept but irl it felt a bit clunky imo and at times we did wish we could move the box out of the way.
Inside the white box were some international outlets - 220v, 110v, and 2 USB plugs. It's nice that the international adapter was built in so cruisers from all over would be set even if they forgot theirs! The lid closes to keep cords in order and they can be fed out of the grooves on the front of the box. All in all, this was a nice concept but irl it felt a bit clunky imo and at times we did wish we could move the box out of the way.
Bed Area - CELEBRITY ASCENT CABIN 8280
We opted for the beds to be together and we chose a cabin where the bed was closest to the veranda. The bed was very comfortable and well appointed with pillows both functional and decorative. The TV was right across from the bed and we did enjoy a few movies (for free) on this cruise.
Veranda - Celebrity Ascent Cabin 8280
The infinite veranda is currently one of the most controversial cabin types on a cruise ship (see also boardwalk balcony) because it has people asking the question "Is this really a balcony/verandah?"
As you can see there is effectively a floor to ceiling window instead of a balcony you can step out onto. In front of the window you have two chairs and a small table.
As you can see there is effectively a floor to ceiling window instead of a balcony you can step out onto. In front of the window you have two chairs and a small table.
Stunning views sailing away from Ft Lauderdale in an Infinite Verandah on Celebrity Ascent
As shown below you can leave the entire room open to the beautiful outdoor views, or you can close the shoji-reminiscent dividers for filtered light and privacy. This is a nice feature when one person is resting but the other would like to enjoy the "balcony" area.
Is the Infinite Veranda on Celebrity Ascent the Best Stateroom at Sea?
After sailing in an infinite veranda for 7 nights (Labadee & Cayman Cruise) we can definitely see the pros and cons of this cabin style.
The stateroom definitely feels more spacious! This style also offers more privacy from the cabins beside you than a traditional balcony. Oceanview balcony doors can be heavy and may be difficult for some passengers to open and close, so the ability to enjoy the fresh air at the touch of a button is going to be a game-changer for some.
The ability to enjoy natural light and stunning views and fresh air from anywhere in your cabin (except maybe the bathroom) without physically going outside on your balcony was awesome!
Eating Around The World:
As mentioned earlier, the air conditioning will automatically shut off when you open the window, so depending on what time of year you are sailing and in what region of the world, this may be really impactful. You may rarely open the window because of the amount of hot air or humidity it quickly lets in and that may leave you wishing you had a more traditional balcony that you could step out on and close the door behind you so the room temperature stays to your preference.
Sailing the Caribbean in December we did not find this to be a major issue, but it is something to bear in mind.
So is the Celebrity Ascent Infinite Veranda the best stateroom at sea?
Well.. I have a few more staterooms to try before I can answer that ;) But I will say that I absolutely loved the Infinite Verandah on Celebrity Ascent. It's definitely not for everyone, but for me - I would not hesitate to book this cabin category at any time in the future!
In fact, I hope to sail on Ascent again soon as it's one of my personal favorite ships!
More Celebrity Ascent Reviews:
Tap a Celebrity Ascent Review Below:
- Infinite Veranda Review with Pictures
- Le Grand Bistro Specialty Dining Review
- Raw on 5 Menu with Prices
- Day 1 - Embarkation Day on Celebrity Ascent - you are here!
- Day 2 - One Day in Nassau on a Cruise
- Day 3 - Captains Club Welcome Toast on a Sea Day
- Day 4 - Sea Day on a Celebrity Cruise
- Day 5 - Falmouth Jamaica Cruise Port
- Day 6 - Georgetown Grand Cayman Cruise Port
- Day 7 - Sea Day on Celebrity Ascent
See all of our Celebrity Ascent Reviews here
Celebrity Xcel Review:
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