Some days I can truly say I LOVE MY JOB! Recently, having been invited on the pre-inaugural voyage of the “most anticipated ship of the year”, Celebrity’s new The Edge was a perk worth working for.
Celebrity Cruises now has its own terminal designed exclusively for its brand with seamless embarkation/disembarkation. I have personally sailed with small groups on Celebrity for the past 12 years. The Edge is a game changer and just won the “Best New Ship” award within the tourism industry. Here’s what makes The Edge so special.
Celebrity has introduced two new suite categories. The one to drool over is the Iconic Suite – two bedrooms, two bathrooms, Celebrity eXhale bedding featuring a king-size Cashmere mattress, fitness bikes, in-suite butler’s pantry with a massive 1,892 sq. ft. (larger than my home) sleeping up to six guests. There is also a 689 sq. ft. private hot tub veranda. Everything is automated from a touch screen and the views are said to be better than the Captain’s. Now that’s luxury I could live in 365 days of the year!
The two Penthouse Suites are slightly smaller at 1,378 sq. ft. with a private veranda measuring 197 sq. ft. but have all the features of the Iconic suites.
The other suite classes include six, two-story Edge Villas, four Royal Suites, and sixteen Celebrity Suites all ranging in size down to the 146 Sky Suites at 313 sq. ft. with up to 163 sq. ft. of private veranda.
The popular Aqua class staterooms have been beautifully designed by UK designer Kelly Hoppen with a quiet palate of colours and full automation. The former balconies in this class have been integrated into staterooms, so you can sit comfortably on one side of the glass wall while lowering the top half for a relaxing breeze and peaceful views of the ocean.
Celebrity’s The Edge has a mobile app now which can unlock your door, order room service with new features being integrated to “Bring me a drink” and “Where are my kids?” Speaking of which, they are probably enjoying themselves in the Camp at Sea. I know if I was a kid that’s where I’d hang out.
And don’t even get me started on the dining! Le Petit Chef & Friends uses Skullmapping by TableMation to customize 3D table animation. Imagine little caricatures running around your plate whipping up the creation which will in fact be served to you. These four min-chefs from Italy, Spain, France and Japan take you on an awe-inspiring journey around the world. Theatre on your plate makes waiting entertaining. It’s so unique you have to see it live – or here on YouTube!
The other most impressive feature for me is the Magic Carpet – a lounge and bar (with live music) which is the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform. The Magic Carpet is a room that changes function as it travels up and down the outside of the ship hull. Check out the video link. The views are spectacular!
Add in exciting entertainment, the Sanctuary, Transformative Spaces and you will wonder what planet you are on, but no doubt you will know you are on The Edge.