27th Mar 2028 | 11 nights | Celebrity Cruises | Celebrity Ascent
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
As the oldest city on the north coast of the country, Puerto Plata has a lot to offer visitors. Stroll through the Parque Central, admire the technicolour homes built by tobacco merchants, then pause at a local restaurant or bar before taking the cable car ride for stunning views on clear days. Alternatively, head to one of the nearby beach resorts to enjoy lively surf and endless golden beaches.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
Aruba is located in the Southern Caribbean, and represents the first letter of the ABC island chain (which includes Bonaire and Curacao), and is the richest and most developed of the three, with chain hotels and high-end stores. Cruise ships dock in the city of Oranjestad. The island is a surprising mix of soft, white-sand beaches and desert (the aloe plant thrives here and aloe vera is one of the island's biggest exports); Dutch heritage and influences from nearby Venezuela. The official language is Papiamento, an intriguing blend of Dutch, English, Spanish and creole, but most islanders are multilingual (including English). The currency is the Aruban florin, but most shops and restaurants will accept the U.S. dollar. Cruisers visiting Aruba will want to set out for the shoreline, visiting famous stretches of sand like Eagle Beach or Baby Beach. If time in port allows, be sure to book a sunset cruise shore excursion when the Aruban sky puts on a fiery show. Other popular excursions include an island tour, a trip beneath the Caribbean Sea in a submarine or a visit to an ostrich farm. The weather is ideal in Aruba, which means that a daily average of 82 degrees Fahrenheit is kept comfortable by the trade winds that blow through, along with little rainfall. It's rare for hurricanes to reach this part of the Caribbean, which means that while it's pleasant to visit year-round, it can also withstand the hurricane season months of May through October.
The brightly hued island of Curaçao, 42 miles east of Aruba, is part of the ABC chain of islands, which also includes Aruba and Bonaire. Legend says that an early governor suffered from migraines and mandated the pastel-coloured houses, now a trademark of the Southern Caribbean island, because white paint aggravated his condition. Whatever the reason, there's something wonderful about approaching by cruise ship and spotting buildings in shades like cotton-candy pink and deep, ocean-blue.
Curaçao was discovered by Spaniards in 1499 and was taken over in 1634 by the Dutch, who settled its capital city, Willemstad, as a naval base. The city drew Dutch and Jewish merchants (old Jewish neighbourhoods -- like Scharloo, north of Willemstad -- still exist), and there's still a distinctly Dutch feel in the centuries-old buildings that line the waterfront in all those fantastic colours.
Willemstad, where cruise ships dock, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with waterfront shops and cafes. It's walkable and always warm, but never stiflingly hot, thanks to constant, breezy trade winds. The city is split into two districts -- one on each side of a narrow but deep channel, traversable by a landmark floating pedestrian bridge. Beyond Willemstad, Curaçao is rife with opportunities to dive and swim, with more than 35 uncrowded beaches.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
The Panama Canal is one of modern engineering's greatest feats. Built as a trade route to stop ships from having to circumnavigate treacherous shipping lanes around North and South America, the canal links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and a full transit of the canal takes around 8 - 10 hours.
Cruises that allow transit of the canal (or partial transit!) also offer the chance to discover lush rainforests, sandy Caribbean beaches, and bustling Latin towns.
Cristóbal, located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, holds a pivotal place in the history of the Panama Canal. Once a bustling hub for canal construction and maritime trade, Cristóbal now offers visitors a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Explore the historic district of Cristóbal to discover its colonial-era architecture, including colourful buildings that harken back to its heyday as a bustling port town. Visit the Panama Canal Railway Station, which played a crucial role in the canal's construction, and learn about the engineering marvels that transformed global trade.
For nature lovers, nearby attractions such as Portobelo National Park offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring pristine rainforests. You can also relax on beautiful Caribbean beaches, where turquoise waters and white sands beckon travellers seeking sun and surf.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
Imagine the stereotypical cruise port -- one with white-sand beaches, a plethora of duty-free shops selling jewels and liquor, and de rigueur water activities like snorkeling and scuba -- and Grand Cayman will likely come to mind. The cliche might just be based on the destination, with its lovely Seven Mile Beach, George Town's retail center and plenty of sites for diving, snorkeling and other water sports. Grand Cayman also celebrates marine life at Stingray City and the Cayman Turtle Farm, and even offers a twist on island paradise with the town of Hell (THE place from which to send the quintessential kitschy postcard). Yet the cliche does have a negative side -- the crowds. It's not unusual to find five mega-ships (we're told there's been up to nine) docked in the harbor at the same time, which makes the tendering process slower than usual and the downtown streets jam-packed. (Building a cruise pier at which ships could berth is oft discussed, but it's never gone beyond the "pre-planning" stage.) The constant influx of cruise passengers keeps the waterfront restaurants bustling, so lunch in port is never a cheap affair. A stroll along the beach quickly turns into an obstacle course of sunbathing tourists, sandy children and water sports vendors. Visitors have two choices -- embrace the crowds and touristy places with a laid-back island mindset, or escape them. Secluded beaches, like Cayman Kai or Rum Point, are a cab ride away, and even Seven Mile Beach has its less crowded spots. A mall at Governors Square offers designer clothes, housewares and even a healthy cafe for a refreshing change from shell necklaces and overpriced seafood. And the seemingly endless stretches of sea never feel too congested when you're swimming peacefully above coral formations.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
Celebrity Ascent, a vessel that embodies sophistication and comfort in every detail. As part of the esteemed Celebrity Cruises fleet, this ship stands as a testament to contemporary elegance and innovative design.
Crafted to provide a haven on the seas, the Celebrity Ascent boasts a range of accommodation options designed to cater to diverse preferences. From luxurious suites exuding opulence to thoughtfully appointed staterooms offering comfort and style, every space has been meticulously designed to ensure a relaxing retreat for guests.
Indulge your culinary desires in the various dining venues meticulously curated by world-renowned chefs. From fine dining experiences to casual eateries, the ship offers an array of gastronomic delights that cater to diverse tastes.
Entertainment options abound, ensuring there's something for every guest's preference. The onboard theatre hosts captivating performances, while stylish lounges provide the perfect setting to unwind or socialise with fellow travellers. The ship's ambiance is complemented by live music, adding to the delightful atmosphere throughout the journey.
Experience rejuvenation and relaxation at the onboard spa and wellness centre. Whether it's a pampering spa treatment or invigorating fitness classes, guests can immerse themselves in moments of serenity while enjoying stunning ocean views.
Beyond the ship's amenities, curated shore excursions offer opportunities to explore diverse destinations. From cultural immersions to adventurous exploits, these experiences promise enriching encounters at each port of call.
The Celebrity Ascent prides itself on offering an exceptional cruise experience, prioritising outstanding service and a commitment to ensuring guests' comfort throughout their journey.
The Celebrity Ascent deck plan showcases several standout features that enrich the onboard experience. A notable inclusion is The Magic Carpet, a versatile space that extends from decks 2 to 16, functioning as a dynamic restaurant, bar, and embarkation area. This movable deck adds an element of novelty and flexibility to the cruise journey.
Passengers occupying suites have exclusive access to The Retreat, an exquisite enclave featuring a private pool, sundeck, lounge, and restaurant. This serene sanctuary offers a luxurious escape for those seeking an elevated level of comfort and privacy. The Retreat's lounge serves daily breakfast and hosts a delightful happy hour, enhancing the indulgent experience.
At the heart of the ship lies the Resort Deck, centred around the main pool area surrounded by artistic trees and overseeing two "martini glass" Jacuzzis, creating a visually stunning and relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind and soak in the sun.
The Rooftop Garden is a captivating space combining lush greenery reminiscent of childhood playgrounds with sculptural seating that doubles as stages for live musical performances. This multifunctional area hosts daytime yoga sessions, various engaging activities, and in the evenings, transforms into a venue for live music and the innovative 'A Taste of Film' experience, blending movies and dining. The Rooftop Garden Grill, an exclusive eatery within this space, offers gourmet burgers during the day and transforms into an upscale barbecue joint at night.
Additionally, passengers can relish in the culinary delights at a raw bar on Deck 5 and experience the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat. Formerly a section of the main dining room, this standalone restaurant on Deck 11 caters exclusively to suite guests, offering delectable breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, ensuring an exquisite dining experience throughout their voyage aboard the Celebrity Ascent.
On a Celebrity holiday, what graces your plate is as pivotal as your chosen destination. The fusion of gastronomic delights and exotic locales defines each experience. Transported by captivating aromas and tantalising flavours, your dining escapades become a passport to uncharted territories—right from your table. Step aboard the Celebrity Ascent for a culinary odyssey like no other.
Crafted under the expertise of Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher, the menus unfold as inspired narratives woven from the rich tapestry of global destinations. Every dish reflects the essence of the stunning regions visited during the voyage. Here, onboard culinary virtuosos masterfully wield locally sourced ingredients, transforming them into daily culinary delights. The result? An unparalleled dining extravaganza that redefines the very essence of fine dining at sea.
Embark on a gastronomic adventure where each meal transcends expectations. With each bite, you embark on a sensory exploration, unravelling the nuances of flavours meticulously curated by culinary maestros. Whether it's the delicate infusion of spices from Asia or the robust flavours of Mediterranean cuisine, the dining experience aboard the Celebrity Ascent is an exquisite tapestry of tastes and cultures.
Savour the pinnacle of culinary craftsmanship amidst the ocean's embrace. From the freshness of locally caught seafood to the mastery of gourmet creations, each dish is a testament to culinary excellence. It's not just about satisfying your palate; it's about an immersive journey through taste, inviting you to savour every moment of the unparalleled dining experience offered on the Celebrity Ascent.
The Infinite Balcony cabins redefine the fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces, amplifying cabin size by nearly a quarter through the innovative use of bi-fold doors. Aboard this ship, 918 Infinite Veranda cabins, inclusive of 16 single-accommodation rooms, cater specifically to solo travellers for the first time in Celebrity's history. These cabins, exceeding 5,000 square feet each, offer a seamless blend of comfort and panoramic views.
Iconic Suites, sprawling across more than 5,000 square feet, stand proudly atop the bridge, facing forward to grant occupants the captain's perspective. These suites, boasting two bedrooms and 700-square-foot balconies extending over the bridge wing, provide the epitome of luxury. Each balcony hosts private Jacuzzis and cabanas, offering an exclusive retreat amid the open seas.
Elevating the allure of space, the Edge Villas, occupying two-level suites, feature an elevated master bedroom, expansive living room, and two spacious bathrooms. Spread across decks 14 and 15, the six Edge Villas offer maximum indulgence for discerning guests. These villas' balconies present private plunge pools, inviting occupants to luxuriate in absolute privacy while surrounded by breathtaking ocean vistas.
Onboard, these accommodations redefine the boundaries of luxury, seamlessly integrating sophisticated design with unparalleled comfort. Each option caters to different preferences, from solo travellers seeking tailored spaces to those craving the utmost opulence with panoramic views and exclusive amenities.
Modern types who prefer a whimsical approach to onboard dining, drinking, décor and entertainment
Anyone scared off by being trendy; boisterous families; cruisers who want dining variety without paying extra
Celebrity draws a broad range of travellers, most attracted by the cuisine, unusual entertainment and creative itineraries. Passenger ages typically average in the 50s, with family groups more visible in the summer and during school vacations. The longer and more exotic cruises usually host an older demographic, and the passenger mix varies with the port of embarkation but most are from North America, the U.K., Australia and New Zealand.
Yes and no. The norm on most Celebrity sailings is smart-casual, but in the Galapagos, attire is casual. Despite the daytime casual vibe, you won't find T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps or swimwear in the main restaurant or specialty restaurants at any time. Formal nights (held once on cruises six nights or shorter, twice on longer itineraries) have been replaced by Evening Chic, where anything from cocktail attire to formal wear is appropriate. The dress code also extends to the theatre on those evenings.
No. The cruise fare for a Celebrity cruise covers dining in several complimentary venues, including the Main Dining Room, Oceanview Café buffet restaurant, Spa Café, Mast Grill (on most ships) and Seaside Grill. Room service is also complimentary, except for the period between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Passengers staying at certain suite levels have additional complimentary dining privileges, and those staying in AquaClass rooms can dine in the Blu restaurant without charge. Water, basic coffee and tea, and certain juices are provided free of charge, but unless you're booked in certain suite categories, you'll have to pay extra for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. The extensive entertainment from Broadway-style theatre to circus shows, comedy, magic, dance and live music is all available without charge. The kids' program is also free, though you'll pay extra for babysitting. Shore excursions are not covered by cruise fares, nor are gratuities, spa and salon services and some fitness classes. There is also a fee for Wi-Fi and laundry services.
On ships with the Lawn Club, hanging out on the grass, whether playing bocce or just relaxing and reading, is one of the most popular activities for Celebrity cruisers. Other popular things to do on these ships is lounge in the adults-only Solarium, hit the Canyon Ranch Spa or participate in wine tasting. Some ships also offer hot glassmaking demonstrations and classes; sign up early for the classes because they fill up fast. On ships without a Lawn Club, relaxing by the pool or in the Solarium is popular, as are the once- or twice-per-cruise Rooftop film and dinner events. At night, Celebrity showcases everything from Vegas-style production shows to comedians and cabaret, drawing a crowd each time. The ships have a robust program for kids, a lot of it centred on edutainment. Many of the activities are offered courtesy of partners like Anturus, Lonely Planet, Xbox, Fat Brain Toys and Budsies.
