The Celebrity Ascent is a ship we’ve had our eyes on for a while, with its sleek lines, dazzling entertainment, and rooftop garden oasis. We’ve been following this ship since it was announced, and we most recently were on board for their New Year’s Eve voyage.
Before you cast off on this modern marvel, let’s equip you with the intel to navigate your trip like a seasoned cruiser.
1. Dress code on the Celebrity Ascent
Ditch the formal wear, but polish up your sundresses and khakis. “Casually chic” is the name of the game here – think resort elegance with a splash of your personal style. Don’t forget your swimsuit; the rooftop pool and al fresco dining await! Pack for balmy days and breezy evenings, and layers are your friend for unpredictable ocean weather.
Tip: This is one of the first ships we’ve been on where we were turned away for wearing shorts. Make sure you pack enough “nice” clothes for the sit down restaurants!
Image from celebritycruises.com
2. Tech-Savvy Sailing on the Ascent
Embrace the Ascent’s cutting-edge amenities. Download the Celebrity Cruises app for effortless check-in, dining reservations, activity schedules, and even poolside drink ordering. Consider the “Always Connected” package for seamless Wi-Fi, whether you’re sharing your cruise bliss with the world or catching up on work (we won’t judge).
The rooms even have a small control panel to control things like the lights and air conditioning, but if you don’t want to use that you can control everything on the app.
3. Dining and Food
From the Cosmopolitan’s bubbly ambiance to the Rooftop Garden’s starlit alfresco delights, the Ascent’s dining scene is a global palate pleaser. Pre-book specialty restaurants like Le Petit Chef for a multi-course magic show that will leave you mesmerized. But don’t overlook the diverse offerings of the main dining rooms and casual cafes – each bite promises a delicious meal.
The food on this ship is some of the best we’ve had, and we think it’s on part with the food quality on Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady.
Tip: Make reservations as far as advance as you can. By the time we got on board, all the specialty restaurants were completely full. Eden is one of the most popular (and my personal favorite), so if you can make a reservation in advance do it!
4. Entertainment Extravaganza
The Ascent’s entertainment is more than just filler, it’s a dazzling centerpiece of your journey. From gravity-defying aerial artistry in the Grand Plaza to world-class musicians and captivating live shows, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Check the daily schedule and prioritize your “must-see” moments, whether it’s a jaw-dropping acrobatics performance or a soulful concert under the stars.
Tip: While there are usually 2 showings per show, we recommend getting there 1 hour before the show starts! Seats fill up fast, and people will save entire rows at a time for their friends and family. There’s a bar there, so relax and grab a drink while you wait.
5. Excursions off the Celebrity Ascent
Shore excursions abound, offering opportunities to delve into ancient temples in Okinawa, marvel at the volcanic cliffs of Santorini, or lose yourself in the vibrant markets of Hong Kong. Choose adventures that resonate with your passions, whether it’s a historical deep dive, an adrenaline-pumping hike, or a leisurely shopping spree.
Tip: If you don’t want to do an excursion, port days are some of the best times on the ship because it’s completely empty. Grab the chair by the pool you can never get, or relax and get a massage.
6. The Celebrity Ascent was Busy and Crowded Everywhere
Because this ship is so new, our sailing was at capacity. Because of this, everywhere on the ship was packed at all times. In order to grab a chair by the pool in the sun, we’d have to go out by 9a and skip breakfast. If you don’t want to do that, just know that a lot of the areas will be packed by the time you get there.
Thankfully there are a lot of areas to sit and lounge if the bar or area you want to go to is full. Just be prepared to have a backup plan (or two!)
7. Drink Prices Vary
We’ve been on a lot of different cruise lines and ships, and this is the first time we’ve ever encountered this before. Drink prices, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, vary depending on what bar or restaurant you’re in. For example, a martini at the martini bar was $17, but if we got the same drink at the theater it was about $12. Granted, the glasses at the theater were a tad bit smaller, but it wasn’t so small to justify a $5 difference.
Remember: This is your cruise, your way. Whether you sit by the pool all day, go on shore adventures, or gourmet dining under the stars, the Celebrity Ascent is your playground. There is truly something for everyone on this ship.
And don’t forget to share your experiences with me after your voyage! I can’t wait to hear about your onboard adventures and the incredible moments you create on the Celebrity Ascent.
Happy travels!
