Celebrity Equinox

Celebrity Equinox

Overview

121,878
Gross Tonnage
2,850
Guest Capacity
2009
Year Built
2019
Last Refit
2.28
Crew Ratio
Launched in 2009 and receiving a full makeover in May 2019, the Celebrity Equinox—a gem in Celebrity Cruises' Solstice class—effortlessly combines contemporary design with an array of premium amenities. Accommodating 2,850 passengers and supported by a crew of approximately 1,250, the ship strikes the perfect balance between lively communal areas and peaceful retreats, appealing to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Catering to the mid to high-end market, the Celebrity Equinox is celebrated for its refined ambiance, boasting unique elements like a real grass lawn on the Lawn Club at its top deck, amid a spectrum of dining and entertainment options tailored for the discerning traveller.

The Celebrity Equinox invites guests to immerse themselves in a rich assortment of features designed to elevate their cruise experience. The Lawn Club, a trademark of the Solstice-class ships, provides a unique chance to partake in casual outdoor activities such as croquet or simply to unwind under the sun on authentic grass, offering a rare experience at sea. The ship's revitalization in 2019 introduced additional suites, transformed Michael's Club into the exclusive Retreat Lounge for suite guests, and unveiled a reimagined Oceanview Cafe with an airy, marketplace layout, all aimed at enriching the onboard dining experience. When it comes to cuisine, the Equinox shines, serving a varied menu ranging from gourmet meals in its main and specialty restaurants to lighter, casual options in its cafes and outdoor grills. The onboard entertainment leans towards the elegant, featuring performances from aerialists and magicians alongside traditional musicals.

The typical guest profile on Celebrity Equinox leans towards adults and couples, encompassing both the younger and older segments who are in pursuit of both relaxation and sophisticated entertainment. Although the ship warmly accommodates families, especially during school vacations, and provides kids' clubs for different age groups, its offerings and amenities are intentionally curated to foster a calm, upscale atmosphere. This thoughtful approach distinguishes the Equinox, delivering a cruise experience that prioritizes quality, comfort, and contemporary luxury.

In comparison to its Solstice-class sisters and other competitors, the Celebrity Equinox stands out for its remarkable blend of dining options, impeccable service, and cutting-edge facilities. Its focus on gourmet dining and premium beverages, along with high-end entertainment and serene spots such as the adults-only Solarium, secures its competitive edge. Nevertheless, while its culinary achievements are broadly recognized, some guests believe there's space to refine the main dining experiences in contrast to the specialty restaurants. Furthermore, the physical separation between the buffet and the main pool area may be seen as less convenient by some guests.

In summary, the Celebrity Equinox exemplifies Celebrity Cruises' commitment to crafting a cruise experience that marries modern sophistication with innovative amenities. With its polished atmosphere, diverse dining options, and outstanding service, it particularly attracts adult travelers and couples in search of a distinguished cruise experience. While welcoming to families and younger guests, its essence is to cater to those desiring tranquility and luxury within a refined and stylish ambiance.
Pros
Innovative features like a real grass lawn for outdoor activities.
Extensive refurbishment in May 2019, maintaining a modern feel.
Varied cabin and suite options with dedicated perks and restaurants.
Excellent mix of dining options, from casual buffet to gourmet specialty restaurants.
Cons
Main dining experience could use improvement.
Some staterooms, particularly on Deck 6 and Deck 3, subject to noise from common areas.
Buffet located on a separate deck from the main pool area, which can be inconvenient.
Specialty restaurants and certain amenities incur additional fees, potentially increasing the overall trip cost.
Tips
Pre-book popular specialty restaurants like Tuscan Grille and Sushi on Five to secure a spot.
For quieter accommodations, avoid Veranda staterooms on Deck 6 and Ocean View rooms on Deck 3.
Take advantage of port days when the ship is less crowded to enjoy the main pool and Solarium.
Check for port-day spa specials for more affordable treatments.
Suite and AquaClass passengers should leverage their dedicated dining venues for a more intimate and personalized service.
Attend the Hot Glass Class at the Lawn Club for a unique experience.
Use the ship's Wi-Fi packages sparingly; opt for the Premium Package if needing higher bandwidth for streaming or video calls.
Explore the ship early in your cruise to find hidden gems like the Sky Observation Lounge and the Lawn Club.
Keep an eye out for drink package promotions to save on beverages throughout your cruise.
Utilize the outdoor areas of the Oceanview Café for a more pleasant and less crowded dining experience.