Why the Celebrity Equinox is my favorite ship
Fresh off a week-long cruise on my favorite ship, Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Equinox, this 7-night New Year's Caribbean cruise, proceeded by a 4-night wine enthusiast group cruise, delivered far more than even I expected. From stunning amenities to unexpected surprises along the way, my Celebrity Equinox review captures the highlights and realities of luxury cruising that no brochure will tell you about.
On this page:
- About the Celebrity Equinox
- The itinerary shuffle: When mother nature has other plans
- When the lights go out in San Juan: A crisis averted
- The ice bar that stole my heart
- A ship of standout spaces
- Cabins on Celebrity Equinox
- Celebrity Equinox dining
- Celebrity Equinox entertainment and activities
- Service that spoils you for life
- Who should sail the Celebrity Equinox
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Celebrity Equinox: The ship that defies time
Having sailed on the Equinox four years earlier, I braced myself for the inevitable signs of aging. Cruise ships take a beating—thousands of passengers dragging luggage, spilling drinks, and generally living their best (sometimes messiest) lives week after week.
Yet the Equinox was in remarkably great shape, showing none of the scuff marks, worn carpets, or tired furniture I'd expected. No dings in the hallways from luggage carts, no faded upholstery in the lounges. Whatever maintenance schedule Celebrity follows, it's working miracles.
The ship's layout became second nature almost immediately—dining venues clustered logically on decks 3-5, with accommodations above on decks 6-12. This smart design creates a natural buffer between the lively social spaces and the tranquil retreats of our cabins. It's a small detail that makes a big difference, especially when you're traipsing back to your room after an evening of martinis.
Related: Best Celebrity Cruise Ship
The itinerary shuffle: When mother nature has other plans
Our 4-night cruise promised a straightforward itinerary: Bimini, a relaxing day at sea, Nassau, then home. Simple enough, right? Wrong
As we approached Bimini, I stood on my suite balcony watching the ship's powerful thrusters churning at full blast, fighting a losing battle against the wind. The scene was both impressive and slightly concerning, all that power yet we were barely holding position. I could feel the struggle through the vibrations in the deck beneath my feet.
For hours (yes, literally hours), we hovered near the dock, the captain occasionally updating us with increasingly strained optimism. Having visited Bimini before, I knew exactly what was happening, only one side of the pier was properly dredged, meaning the ship couldn't simply reposition to use the wind to its advantage. We were stuck in a maritime standoff with Mother Nature, and she wasn't backing down. The winds weren't getting any weaker, and the dance of the thrusters was clearly a losing proposition.
Our consolation prize? Freeport. If you've never been, it’s a small, laid-back port with a scattering of shops and bars catering to cruise visitors. While some travelers ventured beyond the main area, discovering the soft sands of Lucaya Beach or the stunning shoreline of Gold Rock Beach, many of us took the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely day. We sipped on tropical cocktails, browsed local crafts, and soaked in the island atmosphere. It wasn’t our original plan, but with the right mindset, it still offered a taste of the Bahamas.
When the lights go out in San Juan: A crisis averted
The 7-night New Year's cruise promised more exotic ports, St. Martin, San Juan, and Puerto Plata interspersed with sea days for recovery. St. Martin was everything you'd expect: beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and that charming Dutch-French cultural blend that makes it unique.
But the real drama came when we were still docked in St. Martin. My phone buzzed with a news alert that made my stomach drop: 90% of Puerto Rico was without power. Our next stop was San Juan, less than 24 hours away. The news showed images of darkened streets and reports of infrastructure chaos. My mind immediately jumped to alternative ports—St. Thomas seemed the obvious choice.
Being in a suite has its privileges, so I pulled out my phone and messaged the chief concierge on WhatsApp. The concierge's response was surprisingly calm: No changes planned. Power was stable in Old San Juan where most excursions took place. The ship could supply its own power at the dock if needed.
Against all odds, the cruise line's confidence was justified. We docked in a fully-powered Old San Juan, toured colonial fortresses under bright sunshine, and sipped perfectly chilled rum cocktails in air-conditioned bars. Not a single passenger would have known there was an island-wide crisis happening just miles away. I had to eat my words—and I did so with a side of mofongo and a cold Medalla beer.
Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic rounded out our port experiences. An area known as Taino Bay was adjacent to the pier and only a short walk to the end of the pier to the entrance. This cute village was built just for cruise passengers in mind. A short stroll through well manicured paved walkways brought you to an air-conditioned welcome center and duty free shop followed by specialty resort style boutiques, a free-formed swimming pool with plenty of loungers and a swim up bar. There were plenty of hammocks for peaceful relaxation and a winding river pool throughout the area. A great way to spend a few hours without the hassle of taxis and traffic of the city of Puerto Plata.
The ice bar that stole my heart
Speaking of martinis, let me tell you about the Martini Bar, which quickly became the center of my social universe on both cruises. This isn't just any bar; it's a massive elliptical showpiece with a frozen bar top that's perpetually covered in frost, even when closed.
The real entertainment, though, comes from the bartenders, talented showmen who stack martini shakers like circus performers and pour cascading rivers of cocktails for wide-eyed audiences.
I watched in awe one evening as a particularly skilled bartender simultaneously poured nearly 50 different martinis in one choreographed cascade. The precision required is mind-boggling, especially considering the movement of a ship at sea. Not a drop was spilled, and the crowd erupted in applause worthy of a Broadway finale.
The frozen surface occasionally adds a touch of unintended comedy, as unsuspecting guests discover their glasses momentarily stuck to the icy bar, a small price to pay for such a one-of-a-kind experience. I found myself drawn here before dinner each night, not just for the expertly crafted cocktails but for the sheer spectacle of it all. With lively afternoon and evening performances plus interactive mixology classes that bring the art of cocktail-making to life, the atmosphere is as entertaining as it is inviting.
A ship of standout spaces
The Equinox isn't just about one spectacular feature, it's filled with spaces that each deserve their moment in the spotlight. The Rooftop Lawn Club offers a slice of suburban paradise transported to sea, with real grass beneath your feet for croquet, leisurely reading, or relaxing in plush cabanas. It stands as a verdant oasis amidst the endless blue expanse of ocean and sky, providing a refreshing contrast to the maritime surroundings.
The Sunset Bar became my end-of-day ritual when weather permitted. Its position at the ship's stern offers unparalleled sunset views, though I quickly learned it's entirely wind-dependent. On calm evenings, it's magical; on windy nights, your cocktail might contain more salt spray than you bargained for.
One of my favorite spots was the Bacio and Gelateria. This inviting café perches on the fifth floor of the grand foyer, offering panoramic views of the ship's bustling center. The space features tastefully decorated, comfortable seating complemented by attentive service. Their specialty coffee menu is exceptional, with the salted caramel coffee martinis standing out as particularly remarkable.
The venue is accessible through the beverage package or à la carte purchases, making it convenient for all guests. Despite its popularity and steady flow of visitors, the thoughtful design ensures there's always seating available, creating a welcoming atmosphere even during peak hours.
My absolute favorite discovery was the Sky Lounge, an amazing two-story lounge with 270-degree windows that wraps you in ocean views while cradling you in comfortable seating. My travel group managed to host a private reception here, and the setting could not have been more perfect. When not reserved for private events, it hosts everything from trivia competitions to live music, the dramatic backdrop of sea and sky enhancing every experience.
The Celebrity Equinox features a glassblowing studio, an experience I didn’t take part in on these two voyages but had the chance to enjoy during my 2018 sailing. It’s a unique onboard activity where guests can create their own glass pieces, such as jars or bowls, and take them home as souvenirs. For those who have never seen the renowned glass blowers of Murano in Venice, this offers a fascinating glimpse into the craft right at sea.
Cabins on Celebrity Equinox
My aqua sky suite transformed into my personal sanctuary, a place where the gentle rocking of the ship lulled me into some of the best sleep I've had in years. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the ever-changing seascape like living art—from fiery sunrises to star-studded nights so clear you could trace constellations.
The signature exhale bedding with its Cashmere Mattress lived up to the hype—I actually found myself taking photos of the tags to see if I could replicate the experience at home. Clever storage solutions (including space under the bed for suitcases) and a well-designed desk/vanity area made the room feel spacious despite its compact dimensions.
My slightly forward location provided the perfect amount of movement—enough to remind you you're at sea, but not so much that your morning coffee becomes a balancing act. I've made a mental note to request this same section for future cruises. Based on Celebrity Equinox balcony cabin reviews, my experience mirrored the praise often given to these accommodations—thoughtful design, comfort-driven details, and an undeniable connection to the ocean that makes every moment onboard feel special.
Related: How To Choose a Room on a Cruise Ship
Celebrity Equinox dining
I made a conscious decision to skip the Main Dining Room entirely, opting instead for the more exclusive dining venues my cruising class afforded me. Most food reviews of the Celebrity Equinox focused on the Main Dining Room and I wanted to experience the smaller, more intimate restaurants.
Blu, available to AquaClass guests, became my breakfast and dinner go-to. The food was consistently excellent, and I never experienced a wait for a table—a luxury that cannot be overstated on a busy cruise. The "clean cuisine" concept delivered flavor without heaviness, perfect for multiple courses without food coma consequences. Blu offered a great variety of specialty foods.
As a suite guest, Luminae offered another spectacular option. Though its dinner menu is smaller than other venues with only a few options featuring Daniel Boulud-inspired dishes (some a bit bizarre), the quality was impeccable, particularly at lunch. The hamburgers served at lunch were massive—impressively large. As a sweet guest in Luminae, you can bring non-suite guests to dine with you for a $20 cover fee per person for lunch and a $30 cover fee per person for dinner.
Notably, Luminae doesn't have a traditional wine menu; instead, the sommelier asks questions and brings personalized selections that perfectly match your preferences.
The specialty restaurants, however, were where the Equinox truly shined. Murano delivered old-world French luxury with tableside preparations that turned dinner into theater. I dined there three times across my cruises. The service was fantastic, with dishes like lobster in buttery cream sauce, steak (Chateaubriand for two sliced tableside), and caviar. At $50-$60 per person, it represented solid value for the experience, and there's also an optional wine pairing available. The caviar service arrived with traditional accompaniments and proper presentation, though I must confess I'm not a big caviar fan despite appreciating the presentation.
The most intriguing dining experience came at Omakase, a Japanese concept with a $133 per person price tag for a10-course tasting menu (with optional sake pairing). We enjoyed courses like Ajutsuki mayyaki egg on a nest with Golden Osetra caviar and Bottarga golden ingot, four nigiri courses, and Chawanmushi (lobster salad with sticky dashi sauce and Golden Osetra caviar). Nine out of ten courses were amazing, but the black cod was a disaster—chewy, not buttery as expected. When the chef visited our table for feedback, I learned we were only the second group to experience this concept, which had just been introduced during the Christmas sailing.
Even the casual venues impressed. Tuscan Grille delivered authentic Italian flavors with ocean views from the aft of the ship, offering steak, pasta, and some seafood options. I dined there three times across my cruises, including once for a special wine-pairing lunch organized for our wine group. Sushi on Five provided excellent Japanese cuisine with à la carte pricing, where reservations were easy to secure, especially for lunch.
Celebrity Equinox entertainment and activities
Entertainment: From silent disco to ABBA mania
Evenings aboard the Equinox offered unexpected delights. The Silent Disco proved absolutely hysterical, well worth watching even if you don't join in. Seeing hundreds of people dancing to different beats, occasionally erupting in unison to a shared chorus, then falling back into rhythmic chaos was people-watching at its finest.
Live music ranged from background piano to full productions, with the ABBA night standing out as a particular crowd-pleaser. People who had seemed reserved all cruise suddenly transformed into dancing queens, belting out lyrics with abandon.
The biggest surprise came from a country-western singer in the Main Theater, whose phenomenal performance with the ship's orchestra converted even the most dedicated country-music skeptics. I'm not typically a fan of the genre, but the standing ovation was well-deserved. Based on Celebrity Equinox entertainment reviews, it's clear that the variety and quality of performances onboard consistently impress guests, offering something for every musical taste.
Filling the hours with Equinox activities
While dining might have been the star of my cruise experience, the Equinox offered plenty of entertainment and activities to fill the hours between meals. From live music and theater performances to engaging trivia sessions and poolside relaxation, there was never a dull moment. Celebrity Equinox reviews frequently highlight the ship’s diverse entertainment options, and after experiencing them firsthand, I can see why they receive so much praise.
For those who enjoy mental challenges, trivia sessions were regularly scheduled throughout the cruise. These proved popular with passengers, including me, looking to test their knowledge while making new acquaintances.
Wine enthusiasts should not miss the World Grand Tasting events, where you can sample varieties from five different regions around the globe. These tastings occur a couple of times each week and provide both education and enjoyment for novices and connoisseurs alike. Similarly, mixology classes offer hands-on experience for those interested in crafting cocktails.
Morning fitness enthusiasts have several options, with meditation and exercise classes often held outdoors when weather permits. During my sailing, we enjoyed warm temperatures despite some wind during the first couple of days, making these outdoor sessions pleasant. The jogging/walking track on Deck 14 gets busy early as passengers stake out pool chairs, but it's still usable for those committed to their morning exercise routine.
Throughout the day, the poolside area hosts various games and contests, from line dancing classes to what I can only describe as "novelty skill challenges" – cornhole, ball-tossing into cylinders, and similar games with prizes awarded to successful participants. Dance classes are also available for those looking to learn new moves.
While the Equinox doesn't feature extensive sports facilities like some larger ships, there is a small netted basketball area with a single hoop. The fitness center, positioned at the front of the ship with panoramic views, is well-equipped and offers specialized classes along with wellness consultations covering nutrition and exercise regimens.
As AquaClass guests, we took advantage of unlimited access to the spa's thermal area, enjoying relaxation rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpool baths – a perfect way to unwind after a day of activities or indulgent dining.
Service that spoils you for life
The suite experience came with butler service that, frankly, ruined me for normal life. My butler seemed to anticipate needs before I recognized them myself—appearing with coffee just as I was thinking about ordering some, securing priority seating for shows without being asked, and handling wine transport between restaurants when we couldn't finish a bottle.
This level of personalized attention extended beyond the suite. By the second day of either sailing, crew members were addressing me by name in corridors and restaurants. It's a small touch that creates an outsized impression of being genuinely valued on this ship, regardless of cabin class.
The true measure of luxury service reveals itself most clearly when the vacation ends. As suite guests, our disembarkation experience through the exclusive Retreat Lounge transformed what is typically the most tedious part of cruising into a seamless finale worthy of the preceding days.
While regular passengers queued in long lines throughout the ship's public areas, we savored a leisurely farewell breakfast without the usual last-day rush. A dedicated concierge appeared precisely when promised, personally escorting us through private corridors and priority customs lanes that elegantly sidestepped the general disembarkation crowds.
The contrast was remarkable—where most passengers faced a chaotic return to reality, our transition felt like a gentle landing crafted with the same attention to detail as every other aspect of our suite experience. From first welcome to final goodbye, the Equinox's tiered service model delivered undeniable value, creating such distinct experiences that it was difficult to believe we'd been aboard the same vessel as those in standard accommodations.
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Who should sail the Celebrity Equinox
The Equinox hits the sweet spot for certain types of travelers. Couples looking for quality time together will love the intimate dining venues and the ship's relaxed vibe that seems designed for connection and unwinding.
Food lovers are in for a treat, with enough restaurant options to keep your taste buds surprised throughout the journey. The specialty venues aren't just about eating, they're experiences worth planning your day around.
If you appreciate attentive service, you'll notice the little things, how crew members remember your name after the first introduction or recall your preferred morning coffee without prompting. These personal touches create a warmth that massive ships often can't deliver.
For families, the Equinox offers a mixed bag. While there are kids' facilities on Deck 15 with counselors running organized activities, the ship doesn't go all-in on child-focused amenities. There's a pool, but you won't find waterslides or the carnival-like atmosphere of some family-oriented cruise lines. If you've got restless young kids or teens who need constant stimulation, they might get bored with the more laid-back environment after a few days.
The verdict: Worth every penny
After two unforgettable cruises aboard the Celebrity Equinox in a month’s time, I was finally able to add my voice to Celebrity Equinox cruise reviews. This experience redefined luxury cruising—attentive yet unobtrusive service, refined elegance without a hint of pretension, and a collection of unexpected moments that became some of my most cherished memories.
From watching the ship's thrusters battle Bahamian winds to sipping perfectly crafted martinis on a bar top cold enough to numb your fingertips, the Equinox delivered experiences that transcended the typical cruise checklist.
Yes, there were hiccups, an itinerary change here, a disappointing black cod there, but the crew's ability to handle challenges with grace and transparency turned potential disappointments into demonstrations of professionalism.
Would I sail it again? In a heartbeat. The Equinox may not be the newest or largest ship in Celebrity's fleet, but she offers something more valuable: a perfectly balanced cruise experience where luxury feels accessible and adventure comes with a comfortable safety net.
Next time you're debating which ship deserves your vacation dollars, remember this: bigger isn't always better, newer isn't always nicer, but impeccable service and attention to detail never go out of style. The Celebrity Equinox delivers all this and more. Just be sure to try the martinis, skip the black cod, and book a cabin slightly forward on the starboard side. You can thank me later.
