A first look at Celebrity Apex.
Updated: Jul 3, 2021
I interviewed John Roberts who is a travel blogger and owner of www.InTheLoopTravel.com to get his perspective and insight into his experience on sailing on Celebrity Apex's inaugural sailing. The photos are taken by John as well.
What are your thoughts on the design of Apex? "The design on Celebrity Apex is focused on style and comfort for the cruiser. Inside, there is abundant space that is filled with thoughtful art pieces. You will find sculptures and photos everywhere. The Grand Plaza is the hub of the ship and attractive open space with the Martini Bar that serves as the anchor. Then, there is Eden, a massive venue at the back of the ship with plenty of light coming in through the day and great spaces to just chill out. I love that you would never feel crowded inside, even when the ship is full. Outdoors is all about the views of the ocean and relaxation, with the Resort Deck and its cabanas, the Rooftop Garden, The Retreat Sundeck (for suite guests), and the Sunset Bar at the very back. There is no basketball court or waterslide or fancy extras, just great spaces to enjoy in nature. I really like it. It's perfect for people who want an elegant cruise designed around relaxing."
Rooftop garden: photo by John Roberts
Main pool: photo by John Roberts
How does Apex compare to the Edge?
"I have been on Edge, and it feels extremely familiar. The only differences are that Celebrity retooled its Eden program away from the quirky Edenists to allow guests to simply sit back and watch a range of entertainment each night in the venue, from live music to dancers, aerialists, and acrobats. Apex offers a new Le Petite Chef animated interactive dining show at Le Grand Bistro. The main theater has the "Tree of Life" and "Rockumentary" programs among a few others that are accentuated by a new massive LED wraparound theater. Most of the other amenities, activities, and spaces on Apex are essentially the same as Edge."
Eden Deck: photo by John Roberts
Rockumentary: photo by John Roberts
Rockumentary (in the main theater): photo by John Roberts
What were the covid protocols in place and did you feel safe on board?
"During our inaugural sailing in the Greek islands, guests had to wear masks on-board when moving around the ship (this is based on the regulations required in the country when the ship is homeported). Otherwise, you can remove your mask when seated and able to distance from others. It wasn't too burdensome. The fitness center was limited to 30 guests at a time, and you had to book your time (one hour limit). In the OceanView Cafe buffet-style eatery, crew handed out plates and filled them with your food selections. There is no self-serve."
Which food venues did you eat at and what were your thoughts about them?
"I ate at every spot on the ship, and the cuisine is definitely a highlight and emphasis on Celebrity Apex. Luminae is a restaurant for passengers in suite cabins, and we ate there for breakfast. OceanView Cafe has an amazing array of food choices, with a carving station, great breads, desserts, and wonderful international cuisine options. We also ate at Prime Cut (the steak house), Le Petite Chef, Le Grand Bistro for lunch once, Raw on 5 for seafood and sushi, and Dinner on the Edge on the Magic Carpet (amazing views at sunset as you sail). The Retreat Sundeck also has a small menu of great sandwiches, and I indulged in the gourmet burger and fries up there for lunch a couple of times."
Magic Carpet: photo by John Roberts
OceanView Cafe: photo by John Roberts
Which room category did you stay in? What was good about the room? What would you change if anything?
"I stayed in a Celebrity Suite. The balcony is large and a great amenity as you sail. I also liked having a personal Retreat Host to help with booking reservations at specialty restaurants and facilitate other things like laundry service. The room is pretty nice with a lot of cabinets and drawers for storage. The bathrooms, however, do not have enough places to set stuff by the sinks or hang up wet items." "Overall, we had a great time on-board, and a week is just enough time to try out everything once. But I wish I had more time to fully enjoy spots like the Thermal Suite and Retreat Sundeck, Resort Deck hot tubs, etc.
"John Roberts is a freelance travel writer and owner of InTheLoopTravel.com, and website that focuses on cruising and active travel."
Photo of John Roberts (submitted by John Roberts)