Celebrity Eclipse Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We typically cruise for destinations and tours, but we live in Southern California, and picked this trip just to relax.
We have been to all of the cities, some of them numerous times, so we did not book any shore excursions. We did get off the ship in every port, but toured about on our own in each location.
Embarkation: We did receive an email advise us the there could be delays in boarding, as the ship was expecting an inspection, as it was returning to the US. We stayed across from the cruise port, so it was an easy walk to the port. They had plenty of porters, so dropping the bags was a breeze, and so was checking in. We were given a number, and then had to sit for 45-60 minutes waiting for our number to be called. This was the longest delay we have had boarding a ship, but never boarded on a repositioning cruise, so it might be normal. They were using the lower decks to load luggage and supplies, so the passengers were required to board climbing up 2-3 flights of stairs, or using long ramps to get to the ship. The last ramp was particularly steep, and you had people trying to climb up the ramp carrying, dragging or pushing their suitcases. Everyone had a backpack or small carry on, but there were people that didn't want to use the porter, and it made the boarding a bit scary, as they were nearly rolling back down on guests boarding behind them.
Cabin Review
AquaClass 2
This was our 6th cruise on an S Class ship and the 4th in this general area of the Aqua Starboard, under the Solarium. We like the overhang for the protection from sun and rain. The cabin was more forward than the others we have been in, and we found the window washing equipment near 1554/1556 to be a little distracting. It isn't as noticeable further back. The Steward was Melvin, and he was excellent. He asked about our needs and wishes, on day 1, and followed through as we asked, he also kept the room clean, and linens refreshed. He was discreet, and always found a way to be in and out of the room while we were away.
Port Reviews
Astoria, Oregon
The city is small, and when a ship with 3000+ people dock, it is overwhelming. Unless you are interested in seeing Mt. St. Helens, or touring an Oregon winery, there isn't much to do.
Seattle
Eclipse was in port ahead of the Alaska tourist season, so we docked in town at Pier 66. It is an easy walk to downtown Seattle. We took an Argosy tour. They bus you to Lake Union, and give a guided tour from the lake, through the Ballard Locks, and return back to the piers near the Farris Wheel. Excellent way to see the city, especially is you have already seen the Space Needle, and other local sites.
Victoria
We rented a car, and drove out to Butchart Gardens. It was early in the season, but they have many trees and flowers in bloom, already in April. Tea in the main restaurant was wonderful. This was a highlight of the cruise.