The Celebrity Solstice has re-emerged from a substantial 46-day refurbishment, part of a broader £200 million investment by Celebrity Cruises into its five-strong Solstice-class fleet. The extensive overhaul, which saw the vessel return to service in March from Singapore, aims to breathe new life into the nearly two-decade-old ship, offering passengers a blend of modern amenities and familiar comforts. The revitalisation project is a significant undertaking, with the remaining four ships in the class – Equinox, Eclipse, Silhouette, and Reflection – scheduled for similar bow-to-stern makeovers in the years ahead.
Among the most notable additions is Sunset Park, an expansive open-air space located on Deck 15 aft. This area offers panoramic views, proving particularly popular for sail-away moments with a cocktail in hand, especially during its inaugural Alaska cruise season. Although yoga and lawn games are envisioned for warmer climates, the space, complete with plush seating and cosy blankets, provided a memorable vantage point for enjoying the dramatic Alaskan landscapes. The adjoining Sunset Park Café also offers daily warm cookies, alongside grab-and-go breakfast and lunch options.
Internally, the Celebrity Solstice has introduced two new restaurants and three new lounge spaces, contributing to its more contemporary feel. One standout new area is The Parlor on Deck 4, which offers complimentary skeeball, darts, pool, and hundreds of board games. With around a dozen televisions showing live sports throughout the day, The Parlor quickly became one of the busiest spots on board, providing a vibrant social hub without exterior windows but still connected to the ship's entertainment offerings.
While significant changes have been implemented, Celebrity has also ensured that elements beloved by loyal passengers remain. Galleries from the renowned Park West Gallery, a long-term partner of the cruise line, continue to feature, as does the popular Sky Observation Lounge. Staterooms have also received a refresh, including new carpeting and updated decor in calming neutral tones with navy accents, offering spacious bathrooms and ample storage. For an Alaskan itinerary, the veranda rooms proved particularly valuable, allowing for wildlife spotting directly from the comfort of the cabin.
This extensive refurbishment highlights Celebrity Cruises' commitment to updating its older vessels, ensuring they remain competitive and appealing to a modern cruising audience. The investment signals a continued focus on enhancing the onboard experience, from dining and entertainment to cabin comfort, setting a new standard for the Solstice class as it continues to sail to destinations worldwide, including popular routes like Alaska.