Boarding
We arrived around 30 mins before our allocated check in slot, so any omissions in our pre departure requirements could be sorted. The PCR process went smoothly with support from Celebrity. By the time we had walked through the terminal and our credentials checked again, photos taken of our COVID vaccination certificates and passports, we were invited to stroll up the gangway, where we were greeted with rapturous applause by the crew! They were so happy to be sailing again and to be looking after guests.
First priority as we embark Celebrity Silhouette is a drink, our drinks of choice were a nice cold beer and a Mexican Firing Squad cocktail. The ship is around one third full with social distancing observed and masks to be worn at all times when outside your cabin but not necessary when actively eating or drinking or by the pool. Celebrity have an excellent app - very easy to navigate and which works for check in, excursion info and booking, dining reservations, ship orientation, daily planner info and health & safety protocols. This made things much more straight forward, speeds up the embarkation process and having your seapass on the app made life on board much easier.
Dining
Starting with the main dining room The Grand Cuvee, located over 2 decks, having 2 areas being reserved for Early (6:30) or late (8:30) diners and 3rd is for guests who have chosen select dining. Celebrity select means you may decide your own dining time. Otherwise try the app as it has a section “hungry now” if you cannot wait.
Alternative buffets (with serving staff) abound with the Ocean view cafe and Mast grill regular favourites. The coffee shops of Il Bacio are right by the gelateria ice cream servery and great choice of bars The Passport bar in central atrium area serves great cocktails (like a Mexican firing squad!) and the live music there has great acoustics. Ensemble bar is great for that late night drink, again with great live music choices and finally, my husbands favourite- the world class bar and it’s vast array of whisky choices for the connoisseur. Another top tip is, if you are considering the speciality restaurants, to ensure you book well in advance even before your cruise if it’s a special occasion.
My Cabin
We stayed in a category 1C deluxe ocean view stateroom with verandah. Midship on deck 8 was an ideal location and our cabin is spacious, comfortable and quiet. It also as a sofa with pull out bed so capable of taking another adult.
Defiantly a big highlight of my trip was meeting Shirley Ballas from Strictly Come Dancing, she was amazing and commented on how much she loves her travel agent
Liverpool Excursion
We took a walking tour of the city of Liverpool and the Beatles story. We were met by our local guide at the cruise terminal right in the centre of town by the famous Liver building. We were soon immersed in the relatively recent history of this famous maritime city. From the home of the White star line to its world war 2 background, the incredible architecture and rejuvenation of the city and of course the music scene. We could see how the old blended with the new when we viewed the beautiful 19th century buildings like the town hall, Liver building, cathedrals, and the now well known Albert Dock.
Not having visited the city before I was pleasantly surprised at how clean, attractive and welcoming it is - and with its famous sons The Beatles, our tour was complete by a visit to the Beatles story. It charted their early days and the epic rise to fame & when we returned to the ship we were just in time to dash to the theatre to catch the Beatles celebration tribute group. The atmosphere was like a long awaited party with passengers dancing in the aisles and singing along. My comment in general on our excursion is that although expensive ($62 each) the standard was very high and a smooth & seamless operation. Had we just got off and wandered around ourselves we would not have had the destination brought to life by a local resident and Beatles aficionado - whose pride in and love for his city was very evident, so well worth the cost.
What to do while at sea
There’s as much or as little as you wish to do. You can relax by the indoor or outdoor pools and jacuzzis, visit the spa, gently snoozing away the excesses of the night before - or get your competitive head on for a quiz - fix of a variety of subjects up in the sky bar on deck 14. If you have missed your shopping fix then deck 3/4 shops stock smart upmarket quality watches and jewellery, cruise wear clothes and make up and sea days are often sale days so grab a bargain. Hit the gym for an end of cruise yoga session or treat yourself to mani or pedi. My sea day highlight? Watching the Barricade Boys sing in the main foyer / atrium - Motown hits and popular show songs, great party tunes and an additional performance due to popular demand.
