As the sun set over the Aegean Sea, I couldn’t help but feel like I was living in a dream – a dream that was made possible by Celestyal Cruises.
From the moment I stepped onboard, I was enveloped in Greek hospitality, a warmth that is unparalleled in my travels.
As an avid traveler, I’ve experienced my fair share of cruises, but none have left me with such a profound sense of culture and community as Celestyal Cruises.
With a fleet of three ships, Celestyal Cruises offers a unique way to discover the beauty and culture of Greece.
From the pre-cruise experience to the on-board amenities, every aspect of this cruise line is well thought out and expertly executed.
If you’re looking for a way to experience the freedom of travel while also immersing yourself in the rich history and traditions of Greece, then look no further than Celestyal Cruises.
- Celestyal Cruises offers well-thought-out itineraries with expert local guides, providing a great opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Greece.
- The food on the cruise is mostly traditional Greek cuisine with options for vegans, and the drinks package is reasonably priced with a good choice of cocktails.
- The ship is clean and spacious with attentive crew members ready to help, and offers a kids club and various activities during the day.
- The entertainment is Greek-themed, including Greek dancing, live music, and evening shows performed by a group called Cirque Fantastique.
Company and Ships
I was amazed to learn that Celestyal Cruises, the Greek cruise line I recently sailed with, only has two ships – the Celestyal Olympia and Celestyal Crystal. Despite having just two vessels, they managed to offer an exceptional experience that I will never forget.
I wondered how they did it. After some research, I discovered that Celestyal Cruises has a rich history dating back to 1986 when it was known as Louis Cruises. In 2014, the company was rebranded as Celestyal Cruises and has since focused exclusively on offering cruises to Greek island destinations.
This specialization has allowed them to perfect their itineraries and provide a unique and authentic experience for their guests. It’s no wonder that Celestyal Cruises has won numerous awards for their exceptional service and onboard experience.
Pre-Cruise Experience
The package deal for my Celestyal cruise included a hotel stay and transfers to the port, making for a stress-free pre-cruise experience. The hotel selection was perfect. We stayed at the Royal Olympic Hotel with a stunning view of the Acropolis. The room was spacious and comfortable, and the staff were welcoming and accommodating.
The transportation options were also seamless. Transfers between the airport, hotel, and port were provided by Celestyal Cruises. The transfers were punctual and hassle-free, allowing me to relax and enjoy my vacation from the moment I arrived in Greece.
Overall, the pre-cruise experience with Celestyal Cruises exceeded my expectations and set the tone for a wonderful vacation.
Ship Experience
From the moment I stepped onto the Celestyal Olympia, I felt like a fish in water. Everything was just perfect and I was on cloud nine. The ship was spotlessly clean and everything worked as expected. But what really stood out to me were the best views on the ship, which could be found at the bar around the funnel. From there, I could see the beautiful Greek islands passing by and it was a truly breathtaking experience.
Moreover, the crew hospitality was exceptional. They were attentive and always ready to help with a smile on their faces. The crew members turned down the room twice a day and left towel animals and snacks, which was a lovely touch.
The ship was spacious and had lots of open spaces, making it perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sea air. Overall, I was impressed with the ship experience on Celestyal Olympia and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a Greek island cruise.
Itinerary and Ports
Exploring the different ports of call on my Celestyal Olympia cruise was amazing. The intensive itinerary had two ports per day and the knowledgeable local guides taught me so much about the history and culture of Greece.
Visiting Mykonos was a highlight of the trip. I was amazed by the picturesque white-washed buildings and beautiful beaches. I had free time to explore the charming streets and enjoy some delicious Greek food.
Kusadasi was another fascinating port of call. I visited the ruins of Ephesus and learned about the ancient city’s rich history. I also visited a Turkish carpet-making factory and was impressed by the intricate process of making silk.
Patmos was a peaceful and spiritual destination. I visited the Cave of the Apocalypse and learned about the island’s religious significance.
Finally, Santorini was the perfect end to the trip. I enjoyed stunning views of the Aegean Sea and witnessed the famous sunset in Oia. The itinerary on my Celestyal Olympia cruise truly allowed me to experience the best of Greece.
Food and Drink
I must say, the food and drinks on my Celestyal Olympia cruise were out of this world! I couldn’t get enough of the fresh and flavorful Greek cuisine, and the cocktails were the cherry on top. The menus were marked with vegan and vegetarian options and there were plenty of Greek cuisine favorites to choose from. I particularly enjoyed the moussaka and the souvlaki. The buffet restaurant was perfect for a quick bite by the pool, but the main dining room was where I had most of my meals. The crew members were attentive, always making sure that everything was to my liking.
One of the best things about the cruise was the drink package options. They were reasonably priced and there was a good choice of cocktails. I tried the Greek Mythology, a refreshing mix of vodka, fresh mint, ginger syrup, and lime juice. The juices at breakfast were not my favorite, but the freshly-squeezed orange juice was worth it. Overall, the food and drink on the ship exceeded my expectations and added to the overall Greek hospitality experience that Celestyal Cruises is known for.
Entertainment
The entertainment options on the Celestyal Olympia cruise were a highlight of my trip. The Greek-themed performances were engaging and added to the overall experience of discovering Greek hospitality. The live music and dancing were particularly enjoyable, and I appreciated the effort put into making the onboard activities reflective of the local culture.
One of my favorite entertainment experiences was the evening shows by Cirque Fantastique. The acrobatics and performances were impressive, and it was clear that the performers put in a lot of effort to make the shows memorable.
Overall, the entertainment on the Celestyal Olympia cruise was great. It was a fantastic addition to the itinerary and helped me fully immerse myself in the Greek culture.
Recommendations
For families with younger kids, I’d highly recommend opting for longer cruises with more time to enjoy the onboard activities and explore the ports of call. Celestyal Cruises offers a variety of family-friendly options that appeal to all ages. From the kids club and daily activities to the Greek themed entertainment in the evenings, here are some of the best activities for families on board:
- Join in on the Greek dancing lessons and learn traditional moves that are fun for the whole family.
- Take a dip in the pool or soak in the hot tub while enjoying the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Participate in the onboard games and contests, such as trivia or scavenger hunts, for a chance to win prizes.
- Visit the onboard shops for souvenirs and gifts for loved ones back home.
- Enjoy the delicious Greek cuisine together as a family, with plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters.
Overall, I highly recommend Celestyal Cruises for families looking for a fun and educational vacation that offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. With well-thought-out itineraries, expert local guides, and a wide range of family-friendly activities, all members of the family are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Additional Information
Visitors to the Celestyal website can find more detailed information about the company’s history, fleet, destinations, and special offers.
The website also showcases the company’s marketing strategies, including their focus on Greek hospitality, culture, and cuisine.
Celestyal Cruises has received positive customer reviews for their well-thought-out itineraries, knowledgeable tour guides, and attentive crew members.
In addition, the website features a section for customer reviews, where past guests can share their experiences and recommendations. This is a great resource for those considering a cruise with Celestyal, as it provides firsthand accounts of the ship experience, food and drink, entertainment, and excursions.
Overall, the website offers a comprehensive overview of what to expect from a Celestyal cruise, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to discover Greek hospitality with this cruise line.
What is the average age range of guests on Celestyal Cruises?
The age range of guests on Celestyal Cruises varies, but I observed families with children, couples, and seniors. The Greek hospitality, cultural immersion, and local cuisine make it a great choice for anyone seeking an authentic experience.
Are there any additional fees or charges not included in the cruise package?
Yes, there may be additional charges for gratuity, booking extras, and payment options. Celestyal Cruises offers an all-inclusive package, but budget planning is important. The cruise line is transparent about pricing breakdown and tipping policy.
What is the dress code for dining on board the ship?
For dining on board Celestyal Olympia, dress attire suggestions are casual during the day and smart casual in the evening. Cultural dining experiences include traditional Greek cuisine and vegan options. Enjoy the freedom to explore and indulge.
Are shore excursions included in the cruise package or do guests have to pay extra for them?
Shore excursion options were available, but booking requirements and additional payment were necessary. The tours were informative and well-guided, but guests should plan for additional expenses when selecting excursions.
How many swimming pools are there on board the Celestyal ships?
There are two swimming pool amenities on board Celestyal ships. They offer poolside activities for guests, such as games and relaxation. It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.