First Transatlantic

We were delayed leaving the hotel because of the go slow by the US customs officers. No problem – much better than waiting at the docks. However, when we did arrive the queues were huge! Thankfully we were Elite and so passed through check in almost immediately. When we boarded the cabins were available immediately although cases naturally didn’t arrive until much later.
Cabin was a restricted view balcony on deck 6 no.6193. Do not worry about the restriction as it only comes up to the bottom of the balcony – they are very good value. Cabin was large, well equipped and extremely well presented. Bathroom was one of the largest we have had. Shower has sliding doors which was great BUT no washing line! Thankfully I knew about this and took a few clothes pegs to hang undies, swimwear and socks on the back of the chairs on the balcony. Cupboard over bed was okay for things you don’t need much as it is difficult to get to. However, it was useful – some didn’t even realise it was a cupboard. Plenty of shampoo, etc and towels changed twice a day if left on the floor. Cannot fault the housekeeping of Miguel.
Meals – we went Select dining for the first time and had no problems. There were five of us and we had the same table each night. Food was excellent in all areas of the ship. We did not go the the speciality restaurants even though they were giving huge discounts – guess many others also thought MD room meals were as good.
Bars – wide selection to suit all. Quiet to as much entertainment you want. Always excellent service – no problems getting extra drinks even though we had the free drinks package.
Shows – sue Denning was our Cruise Director and what a wonderful, professional lady she is. All the shows were excellent. Best we have seen from the Celebrity singers and dancers on any ship. WOW!
Daily prog. – lots to do. Very impressed with passengers who joined the choir and the dance group. They met daily to rehearse and put on a show at the end. Next TA cruise I would certainly join such a group. A variety of speakers BUT, as an ex teacher I can tell them that they would not pass OFSTED INSPECTION! Their material was interesting but putting up sentences on a computer screen and just reading them!!! Lots of quizzes, etc which we joined – good laugh but some take them so seriously
Service – excellent throughout all areas
Flights – just want to say take care with baggage allowances on different airlines. Going to F.Lauderdale we had 23 kg. baggage and 18 hand luggage. From Southampton back to Manchester with Flybe it was STRICTLY 20 kg. baggage and 10 hand luggage. One of our friends had 23 in her luggage and 7 in her hand luggage. Same total weight but they made her move it across before check in. The charges were incredible for extra. Also take care as you can only carry ONE PIECE OF HAND LUGGAGE ON THE PLANE so handbags, etc would count as one. I had to squash my handbag into my hand luggage bag.
Overall it was an excellent holiday and we are looking forward to our Transpacific on the Solstice later in the year.