Celebrity Cruises has added a touch of class to UK cruising with the introduction of the refurbed Celebrity Silhouette.
The ship was given a multi-million-dollar refit last year, adding some of the new luxury experiences from newer ships in the Celebrity Edge series, with a completely new look and feel by British designer Kelly Hoppen; reimagined restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as trendy new boutiques and sumptious suites.
Celebrity Silhouette set off on a series of six- to eight-night itineraries around Britain’s coastline on 3 July. Ahead of the first sailing, agents were invited on board to see the ship for themselves.
Agent Sheryl Makin, Director of the Luxury Travel Boutique in London was one of them. This is what she thought.
Arrival
On arrival at Southampton Cruise terminal, we were greeted immediately by Daniel, Jonny and Ruth from Celebrity and, although we were a little early, we were guided to the COVID antigen test centre the cruise line has set up with Eurofins.
A very straight forward procedure, we were greeted throughout by friendly masked faces and then proceeded through security to check in. Then to a nurse, who checked our health forms and that we had been double vaccinated, via the NHS app.
We then waited for our test result, which took only 15 minutes, and were handed cold water and greeted by more friendly faces throughout. Once handed our negative certificate, we went onboard to a round of applause, which was very touching.
Having sailed on Silhouette’s sister ship, Equinox, nine years ago for two weeks around the Med, I was excited to see the changes from the multi-million-pound refurb and upgrade. I wasn’t disappointed!
All aboard
The whole feel was one of relaxation, freshness, understated luxury and an air of coolness.
It felt spacious and chilled and new.
The team onboard couldn’t do enough, and I could sense the excitement and genuine delight of having the first guests onboard. Ten out of 10 for the welcome and hospitality we were shown throughout the day by everyone.
It was emotional to witness the comeback for this cruise line after 15 months in limbo and Jo [Vice President & Managing Director EMEA Jo Rzymowska] and the team at Celebrity made us feel incredibly special.
New touches
It was special to be one of the first agents to see the new developments such as The Retreat area. It can only be accessed by suite guests, giving them space to relax in gorgeous upholstery for that extra special exclusivity.
The sunset deck was stunning too: light fresh colours, Ibiza style beds. All you want to do is choose one of the chairs or loungers and sip on a cocktail.
Food
We were treated to a delicious three course lunch in Luminae restaurant, with exquisite wines to accompany the fabulous choice of menu.
We chose the butternut squash ravioli and the Alaskan halibut.
Accommodation
The Kelly Hoppen magic makeover has raised the bar for laid-back luxury and style and this could be seen in the suites we saw – more space, light fresh colours, clean lines and lots of cushions. The bathroom was enormous and I loved the outdoor jacuzzi bath. Nice touch.
Entertainment
The 45-minute show also gave us a taste of the entertainment onboard.
If I had any criticism it would be that the choreography seemed a little dated, and not on point with the ethos of Celebrity, but the two male singers stood out and the acrobatic couple were in a class of their own.
Well done to all the performers, the crew and team for what is sure to be a successful summer onboard Silhouette.
Verdict
Celebrity’s ‘Always Included’ offer – that’s drinks, wifi and tips – starts from £999pp and, with a maximum of 1,000 people on board, it’s an excellent choice for first time cruisers or an alternative to going abroad this summer if clients are too anxious to travel overseas.
I will be highlighting the safety protocols and value for this level of luxury to my clients.
See Celebrity Silhouette‘s UK itineraries here.
