Celebrity Summit Oct. 29 - Nov. 5, 2016

San Juan - At Sea - Guadeloupe - Barbados - Grenada - Dominica - At Sea - San Juan

After 17 years at Holland America Line, retiring then joining the Worldwide team I had the opportunity to sail on the Celebrity ship The Summit.

The Summit was chartered by Legendary Rhythm & Blues which I had sailed with many times, so I knew in advance that the overall operations would be different but was excited to experience the vessel, especially sailing with Captain Kate McCue!

I was cleared for early boarding which gave me time to check out the many venues and staterooms before the guests embarked.

The staterooms had all the normal amenities: bathrobes, custom blended bath products, individual safe, hair dryer, complimentary tote bag and beach towel service, and an interactive flat screen TV that allows you to check out a variety of options i.e. check your bill (so there isn't "sticker shock" at the end of the cruise), make shore excursions, and order room service right from your stateroom.

I was fortunate to be assigned an AquaClass stateroom which offered additional upgraded amenities and services.

The Summit is smaller in today's market but the ship has all the appointments of the mega ships just a little more intimate.

Dining

Cosmopolitan Restaurant: This is the ships main dining room that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. You have the option of open seating, make a private reservation, or traditional set times. The room is very elegant, but comfortable, and has windows all around it so you can enjoy seeing the ocean while you dine.

Luminae: Private restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner that is reserved for Suite Guests only that can dine anytime without reservations. They offer a unique menu that you will not find anywhere on the ship, nor will you see it more than once because every day they feature a different menu. Cover charge applies.

Blu: Dining reserved for AquaClass guests only and is only open for breakfast and dinner. It features a menu inspired by Spa Cuisine. The food doesn't seem overly healthy but instead smaller portions and is a lighter fare than you will find in the Main dining room or buffet.

Oceanview Cafe: Casual Buffet open for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Late night reflecting an International Market Place. Stations available are not only made to order Poached eggs and omelets for breakfast but made to order pastas, stir fry, fresh sushi, pizza, full salad bar and a variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts.

Pool Grill: (weather permitting) Grilled specialties. Grab a burger and fries and relax by the pool.

Spa Cafe: Open for breakfast and lunch featuring a light and delicious health conscious fare that is flavorful but good for you as well.

Cafe al Bacio & Gelateria: Relax and enjoy your favorite expresso or tea in this European Inspired Coffee House that also has a full bar to give your coffee that extra kick when desired. Across from the Cafe is Gelateria which offers a vast assortment of flavors of Italian Ices and Gelatos. Cover charge Applies.

Sushi on 5: A new traditional Japanese restaurant featuring hand-rolled sushi, sashimi and a broad selection of specialty sake and Japanese craft beers. Open for lunch and dinner. Charges apply per item.

Tuscan Grille: Traditional Steakhouse with an Italian flair. You can have a fresh antipasto, a marbled steak and watch pasta being made throw a window in the back kitchen. Open for dinner, cover charge applies.

Qsine: This one of a kind restaurant featuring a uniquely unordinary approach to dining. The presentation is full of surprises and delight. From Disco Shrimp, Kobe Beef Sliders, and Sushi Lollipops served in creative vessels. The iPad menu makes even more fun. This is a must do! Open for dinner, cover charge applies.

Bars and Lounges

Cellar Masters: Inspired by the vineyards of Napa Valley, they feature a large variety of wines from around the world. They also have demonstrations during the day to learn more about fine wines.

Fortunes Casino Sports Bar: It's the hot spot to watch all the latest sporting events and grab a cold beer

Martini Bar & Crush: On the totally cool, ice-topped bar, the talented bartenders put on a high energy show preparing classic and contemporary martinis. You can sit in the contemporary plush high back chairs while listening to up-tempo tunes and enjoying a collection of classic and rare vodkas, and savor a portfolio of fine caviars.

Mast Bar Deck 11 and Pool Bar Deck 12 are open weather permitting

Michael's Club: Private for Suite Guests only. This is a perfect haven to start your day with a cappuccino in the comfortable surroundings. The Club is open all day serving Continental breakfast, complimentary beverages and appetizes. End your evening with your favorite cocktail while you listen to live jazz music played on a Baby Grand Piano.

Rendez Vous Lounge: Elegant decor, live music, comfortable setting. A great place to sit back and enjoy the evening.

Revelations Lounge: Panoramic ocean view makes this lounge perfect for the live bands that play and the Late-night disco.

Even though this was a music charter and there many changes to normal operations, I felt the staff did a great job! They were friendly, outgoing and attentive. Even with the extra-long hours they still had smiles on their faces!

This ship is well equipped to handle groups of any size.

Presented by Carol Berwager - January 2017