A recent journey aboard the Celebrity Edge has turned a skeptical traveler into an enthusiastic cruise devotee. Initially dismissive of the cruise lifestyle, the writer embarked on a 12-night sailing to New Zealand and found themselves captivated by the luxurious offerings and unique experiences on board.
The transformation began immediately upon boarding the ship. With its gleaming interiors and welcoming atmosphere, the Celebrity Edge made a lasting impression. Upon entering the central atrium, the writer was greeted by a stunning chandelier and a friendly voice proclaiming, “welcome home.” This moment marked the start of an unexpected journey into the world of cruising.
Within just 48 hours, opinions started to form about stateroom layouts and daily schedules. By the fifth day, the writer was identifying fellow passengers as “cruisers,” and by the seventh day, they were researching the release of the upcoming Celebrity Xcel, akin to monitoring stock prices.
Unparalleled Comfort and Dining Experiences
The luxurious accommodations of the Infinite Veranda stateroom provided an instant sense of relaxation. The innovative design allowed the window to transform into a balcony at the push of a button, creating a personal retreat. The experience of being gently rocked by the ocean fostered a deep sense of tranquility, prompting the writer to embrace the art of relaxation.
Access to The Retreat elevated this experience further, providing an exclusive environment with private pools and attentive service. The serene atmosphere allowed for leisurely reading and indulgent self-care moments. The final dinner at Luminae proved to be a culinary highlight, featuring a menu crafted by celebrity chef Daniel Boulud. Each dish surpassed expectations, leaving a lasting impression.
A visit to Raw on 5, the ship’s sushi restaurant, further exemplified the high standards of dining available. The fresh and exquisite dishes prompted reflections on past sushi experiences. The unexpected delight of caramelized gingerbread with wasabi gelato added a memorable twist to the meal.
Eden, another dining venue, transformed the experience into a theatrical event. The ambiance, complete with performers and an open kitchen, created a captivating atmosphere. The perfectly prepared lobster and other dishes elevated the dining experience to new heights, making the writer contemplate the theatricality of food.
Memorable Activities and Shore Excursions
The Oceanview Café buffet offered an array of culinary delights reminiscent of a vibrant food festival. Highlight nights featured Caribbean and Indian cuisine that delighted the senses. Breakfast became a cherished ritual, enjoyed with stunning ocean views that set a positive tone for each day.
The complimentary dining venues, Cyprus and Tuscan, provided a comforting home-like atmosphere, serving Mediterranean and Italian dishes that surpassed expectations. The ship’s ability to deliver such exceptional food while at sea left the writer in awe.
The SEA Thermal Suite was a sanctuary for relaxation, offering steam rooms and heated loungers that resulted in hours of blissful tranquility. The writer’s time spent there felt like a mini-vacation within the vacation.
Entertainment on board was unexpectedly high-quality, with full-scale productions featuring talented performers. The writer was humbled by the professional caliber of the shows, which included aerialists and captivating game shows that kept audiences engaged and entertained.
Shore excursions added to the adventure, with stops in Tauranga for the Te Puia Thermal Experience, highlighting geothermal wonders. Other locations, such as Dunedin and Christchurch, offered easy shuttle access, while Auckland provided a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploration via local scooters.
The Premium Beverage Package introduced a new level of leisure, allowing the writer to sample cocktails without concern. The experience culminated in a newfound appreciation for the joys of cruising, with each drink feeling like a celebration.
Disembarkation proved challenging, as the transition back to reality was jarring after a week of indulgence. The absence of the ship’s services made returning to everyday life feel like a betrayal.
In conclusion, the writer’s experience aboard the Celebrity Edge redefined their understanding of cruising. The seamless and indulgent travel experience has ignited a passion for future voyages. With upcoming offers, including discounts of up to AUD 1,500 during the Black Friday promotion from November 27 to December 2, 2025, the opportunity for another adventure is tempting. Future itineraries, including routes to Greece, Malta, Turkey, Fiji, and Vanuatu, promise to continue this newfound passion for cruise life.
