Set Sail in Style: Discover the Luxurious Experience Aboard Celebrity Cruises' Ship Apex

Words by David Powell

Mini cruises from the UK are a fantastic way to dip your toes into the world of cruising. My wife and I recently took one from Southampton, stopping in Zeebrugge for Bruges and then sailing into Amsterdam on the Celebrity Apex.

The Celebrity Apex, part of the Edge Series, launched in 2020. This impressive ship weighs 130,818 tons and can hold around 2,910 passengers. It combines elegance and modern design with various dining options and top-notch entertainment. With features like the Magic Carpet and Infinite Veranda staterooms, Celebrity Apex elevates the cruising experience, blending luxury with a relaxed vibe.

The Appeal of Celebrity Apex

The ship’s design is sleek and contemporary, emphasizing open spaces and natural light. Created by renowned designer Kelly Hoppen, the interiors feature a neutral palette of blues, greys, and soft earth tones, making it feel like a chic boutique hotel.

One standout feature is the Magic Carpet, a platform that moves up and down the ship’s exterior. It can serve as a dining area or a lounge, adding a unique element to the cruise experience. The Resort Deck, with its main pool and solarium, offers another beautifully designed space to unwind. Our favorite spot was the Rooftop Garden, a lush retreat perfect for sipping cocktails in the sun.

Accommodations That Impress

Celebrity Apex raises the bar for cruise cabins. The Infinite Veranda staterooms are a game-changer, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors that can be opened with a button. This design merges indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an airy feel that we absolutely loved.

For those seeking luxury, The Retreat provides suite guests with exclusive amenities, including personalized butler service, a private restaurant, and a secluded sundeck.

A Dining Experience to Remember

Dining on the Celebrity Apex is one of the cruise’s highlights. With 29 dining options, you won’t run out of choices. Four main dining rooms—Normandie, Tuscan, Cosmopolitan, and Cyprus—each offer unique cuisines. This setup creates a relaxed, restaurant-like atmosphere rather than a typical cruise dining experience. The Oceanview Café buffet provides a vast array of food, and room service is available around the clock.

One evening, we enjoyed Le Petit Chef, a whimsical dining experience where a tiny animated chef “prepares” your meal right before your eyes. It was delightful! Other specialty options include Fine Cut Steakhouse for premium meats and Eden Restaurant, offering a dining experience amid stunning botanical decor.

Entertainment and Activities Galore

Entertainment on the Apex is diverse. The ship features a state-of-the-art theater showcasing productions and aerial acts. Eden serves as a multi-use venue for intimate performances, while The Club offers everything from trivia nights to silent discos. Don’t forget the modern casino, complete with slot machines and table games!

For relaxation, the Spa offers various treatments, from seaweed wraps to cryotherapy facials, alongside a thermal suite. The Fitness Centre is equipped with Peloton bikes and yoga classes, catering to those who want to stay active while on board.

Final Thoughts

From booking to sailing, our experience on the Celebrity Apex felt warm and professional. The service, from waitstaff to housekeeping, was exceptional.

With its stunning design, innovative accommodations, gourmet dining, and high-tech entertainment, Apex provides an unparalleled cruise experience. While it may not be the ideal choice for families with young kids, it’s perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and tranquil getaway.

If you’re considering a cruise, Celebrity Apex might just offer the experience you’re looking for.

For more details, check out celebritycruises.com.

Photography courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

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