I Will NEVER Book This Controversial Cruise Cabin Again. Here's Why
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 ก.ค. 2024
- There are no bad cabins on a cruise, right? However, there are some that are controversial & are either loved or hated! We recently sailed on Celebrity Ascent in an Infinite Veranda balcony cabin & it wasn't what I expected. In fact, we've had this controversial cruise ship cabin on a past Celebrity cruise. This time our experience was different - in this video I share why & what you need to know before booking this stateroom on Celebrity's edge class ships.
If you're planning a cruise onboard Celebrity or even Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, you might be thinking of booking an Infinite Veranda. This controversial cabin has a window that lowers & doesn't have an outside balcony.
However, there are definitely some pros & cons to this type of cabin on a cruise. In this video I share an infinite veranda cabin tour (Celebrity Ascent cabin 7275). I also share cabin tips & tricks you'll want to know.
This video will help you choose the best cabin on Celebrity Cruises Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Apex & Celebrity Edge.
Celebrity Ascent Infinite Veranda Review
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ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
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On our repositioning cruise on the Apex, we had a Concierge Class Infinite Veranda... and our configuration was that the bed was closest to the closet, and we agree, it felt so spacious, and we loved our cabin... it is amazing that the position of the bed has such a dramatic effect on your perception of the room.
When booking your cruise, how can you be sure your room has the bed furthest away from the veranda?
My guess is that concierge class cabins have the bed closer to the interior. I could be incorrect
I really love your video. I’m an experienced cruiser. 29 cruises and counting but I still learn more from you. Concise and to the point. Enjoyable.17 days to regal princess cruise. Princess is our favorite but we have loved all for different reasons.
What an amazing tip! I never would have thought about it but looking at your 2 different review videos you are totally right about the configuration.
My wife and I sailed on Beyond at the same time you were sailing. It was our third consecutive Edge class sailing (Edge, Apex & Beyond); all in an infinite veranda. I enjoyed the infinite veranda up until our most recent sailing. We experienced issues the entire week with lowering/raising the window. Our stateroom attendant checked it, and of course it worked perfectly when he did so, but it continued to misbehave intermittently. I know I should have elevated the issue, but didn’t. Our next and last Celebrity cruise will be later this year to Hawaii, but this time we will have a sunset veranda with a traditional balcony on the aft of the ship. We have enjoyed sailing with Celebrity, five cruises in all. But their recent handling of my travel claim from Fort Lauderdale combined with their refusal to give me a military discount on my upcoming cruise has soured my opinion of Celebrity. Apparently the mighty dollar is more important to Celebrity than appreciating their loyal customers.
Thanks for sharing your experience. Sometimes a change does some good
I too enjoy taking advantage of the military discount and didn't realize people were having problems receiving it. At this point it's always been offered to us. However, I'm with you on jumping ship (so to speak) from Celebrity as I find this new President or CEO to be more concerned with profits than offering the quality Celebrity was pre pandemic, known for. While we've only been on six or seven cruises, all of them have been with Celebrity. We have two more this year, one on Equinox and one on Beyond and have no intentions in ever booking with them again.
@@rickybobby7986 We already had an Hawaiian cruise booked and I forgot to ask for the military discount. I had my travel agent ask and he was told that Celebrity would have to recalculate the cruise because prices have gone up and I would end up paying more. Funny, it wasn’t issue previously. I would have been happy with a small OBC but now it is going to cause them to lose a loyal customer.
We love celebrity., however we don’t like all the changes. We plan to look at other lines. Loyalty not important to them.
I have heard the cuts are happening across all cruise lines. ( many videos from travelers on several lines) Less free offerings on board, less customer service, faster turn around times - lets hope it doesn’t affect safety.
When I saw you were cruising in one of these cabins, I was immediately looking forward to this video. As someone who tends to cruise ‘on the inside’, I reckon I would adore this cabin type, but I do totally see why lots of people aren’t fans!
Thank you so much for this review. We had been contemplating booking the infinite veranda. You have really helped us with our decision.
Thank you for making this video - it's super helpful! I wouldn't have really thought about the bed/couch placement. But after seeing this video, I agree with you that the room seems more spacious with the couch closer to the veranda.
Glad it was helpful!
I am in the planning process of my cruise! These videos have help me out ! I like the traditional balcony staterooms ! Any advice in where the stateroom should be at? Thank you
Very useful info on the layout, thanks😃
I haven't gotten to do a balcony or veranda room yet but your videos and information make things much easier to plan
So glad!
Firstly - thank you so much for what you’re doing. I love your channel - and you had prepared me well for our first cruise - especially as up until 10 minutes before we boarded, my wife had zero idea that we were going anywhere (we were just heading out for brunch!) - It could have been a divorce moment, but with the preparations you unknowingly helped me make - it was an incredible surprise and amazing trip!
We came back from our first ever cruise last week - Celebrity Edge from Sydney around NZ. I say this to caveat the comment with the fact that I can make no comparisons.
We had the same configuration as this video, and loved it!
A couple of key reasons why we liked it.
1. Afternoon naps on the bed were lovely, window down, a little breeze, sound of the ocean, able to see more out on a morning when we awoke.
2. We had more space closer to the bathroom, wardrobe, drawers and mirror: which made a lot of sense when getting ready on a morning or an evening
We never used the sofa for sitting - if we were sat reading or chatting: it was around Eden, a coffee shop or bar.
It may feel more spacious with the opposite configuration, but because we had nothing to compare with - it felt absolutely fabulous.
I can’t echo your comments enough, in terms of storage: there is heaps - and all useful! Under the bed you can probably fit 4 suitcases - the bathroom also has plenty of space to store things.
We didn’t use the blind (it remained up) or the bifold doors (they remained open) - this possibly helped with the feeling of spaciousness.
Thanks again for your great work!
Thanks for sharing & wow, I can’t believe you pulled off that surprise 😂👏👏
So you packed your wife's luggage? Would that qualify for a Guinness record of some sort?
Huge difference between a brunch date and a cruise. Magical powers on your part to pull that off!
Thank you so much for this review. It will definitely help me when selling to my clients. I had a feeling about most of these Cons.
Good info about the configuration concerns. I agree that I would prefer the bed not be next to the balcony.
Thank you for this review. I booked an infinite veranda on Icon of the Seas. Can’t wait to experience this type of cabin.
So happy I found your video. We are about ready to confirm our cruise on the Ascent with this Infinity Veranda stateroom. Will ask my travel agent to make sure our configuration will have the living space closest to the verandah. Thank you!
Another great video thank you!
Fantastic information thank you 🍀❤️
I am go glad you posted this video - I completely agree with you about the configuration - my question is - how can you be sure to get the configuration of the sofa closest to the window vs the bed. It makes sense that they alternate - but - how can you be sure to get the right one? Do they actually show YOUR room when booking? or just a general configuration. Don't stop your videos, I have learned so much! We sail with Celebrity in March (and now I am a bit concerned)
You can look up any cabin number before you book it. Google the room number or I use an app called Shipmate.
I am reading through all the comments regarding this after asking the same question. Guessing know one knows the answer since there are no replies. must be just pot luck - no doubt when they discover how important it is they will hike up the prices for the couch near window cabins
Thank you for this information. I've seen different configurations when looking at staterooms on different cruise line websites, but I never thought about how it would look and feel when actually on the ships. All Disney configurations for verandas are the same no matter the ship: bed, living area, then verandah. This room you had just felt odd. I like extending the living area to the outside (like in a house) but not extending the bedroom outside.
Very interesting
HI! We really enjoy your videos and find them very helpful and useful and we always give them a "thumbs up", and we have been subscribers for a few years now.
Thank you for sharing this video Ilana. My wife and I did our first cruise ever on the Beyond in the summer of 2022. And we loved it! A wonderful ship and as it was during the opening after Covid we did enjoy the ship with about half the capacity of guests. We had the same cabin configuration that you obviously had on your Beyond-cruise, and it felt spacious. We have booked another cruise this summer - on the Ascent, and we were lucky enough to get the same cabin number as we had on Beyond. So I only hope that the same cabin number on Ascent is a copy of the one on Beyond ;-) We are really looking forward to our second cruise 🙂
Ascent is a beautiful ship too! Enjoy
Agree completely. On our December 2023 cruise on the Apex, we had adjoining cabins. Ours was like you had on the Beyond, while our boys' was like the one you had on the Ascent. Our experience was so much better in our room, and fortunately our boys just don't care how it is, so it worked out just fine. But you are certainly right in your comments about how it feels less spacious when your bed is near the window!
Thank You LLana, we r going on our second cruise. it will be on the Carnival Dream this time. last time was Jubilee. I watch your videos ALOT lol. Thanks again
Great video and lots of great info for us. I'm just not a fan of the infinity veranda. I'm a big fan of the traditional balcony for my room. Thanks for sharing.
Good Information here, thank you.
I really prefer the balcony separation from the room. I don’t like the infinite balcony.
I was just on the Celebrity Ascent in an infinite veranda room and actually really liked it. I’ve had balcony rooms on other Celebrity cruises and honestly barely used them. For me the most important part is the views and it was really nice being able to open the blinds from my phone to look out from the bed. We kept the bifold doors open the whole time and used the area as extra space. We did not really open the it at all so we never had temperature issues in the cabin.
Yes, we always try to avoid having the bed at the veranda or balcony. Just got off the ascent ourselves and enjoyed our cruise immensely. Love your show. Keep doing a good videos. Bye for now.
How do you make certain of a specific bed configuration? I've never noticed that as an option when I book.
Thanks so much for this video. That's something that I've noticed also just by watching videos. I'll make sure when I book to request the configuration with bed closest to the closet.
By the way you have on that beautiful outfit. I've been looking for it on your Amazon store with no luck. I really love that outfit.❤
Thank you! If it’s the blue dress I’m wearing it’s from Zara (a lucky find) & I don’t have a link unfortunately
Thank you for replying. I'll look for it.❤
Now I have an idea about the pros and cons of this cabin type! Just incase I find myself having to make a choice on my future cruising, I know the difference. Thanks for sharing the details 🛳️🛳️
Thank you so much. Your explanation of the two different configurations helped me pick the cabin I prefer on my upcoming cruise on Celebrity Beyond. :) I'm not convinced my husband will like the infinite veranda (having the a/c shut off will probably be an issue), but I want to experience it for myself.
Thank you for this. I am going to call to see if they can change our upcoming trip cabin to the opposite set up which we were expecting.
I totally agree with you. On every cruise we have done (non-Edge) I want the couch by the balcony. My husband uses the bed for a nap and I get to sit on the couch and read and watch the world go by.
First off, it was nice to meet you on this sailing. This was my first Celebrity sailing and with an "Infinite Verdana" it was okay but I think I'd prefer a real balcony for many of the reasons you mentioned. The big window look did offer some great views (despite the life boat blocking some of it). The solo cabins are nice size (especially compared to solo ones on NCL ships) but lack adequate storage for clothes and stuff. Especially when compared to the cabin you had. Good point on the room configuration with the room. Mine was similar to yours with the bed by the veranda.
Thanks for sharing your experience in a solo cabin! Great to meet you
Love your video's but my mom was an English teacher and I need to mention it. Irregardless is not a word, the word is regardless. Said with a smile and not trying to be a jerk.
Cruised on Apex in infinite verandas twice. First cruise was in the Caribbean so the infinite veranda was still a novelty. We had the configuration with the bed near the closet. It was fine. Second time was in the Fjords and I was so glad to have the infinite veranda because it was really cold (for a native Floridian!) and I could sit at the closed window and really enjoy the scenery. If it was a standard balcony, I would have been miserable sitting in the cold. Sailed on Ascent for one of the 2 preview cruises in November and had your configuration. I agree with you, I much preferred the other configuration. So for my last Edge series voyage on Beyond in the Caribbean, we actually booked the porthole veranda and it was quite nice! It was a real balcony, not a window and it was semi-enclosed, similar to "cove" balconies. If I cruise on another Edge series ship in warm weather, I will definitely opt for the porthole veranda rather than the infinite veranda. Side note: I noticed that the new Icon of the Seas has a few decks with infinite verandas!
Excellent point! We sailed Edge, the bed was near the veranda and I hated the cabin! Also got tired of stepping on the bifold door track in bare feet! Not a fan of the window anyway but that configuration just made it worse!
You are 100% correct! The placement of the bed makes all the difference in the world! I use a scooter so I need a handi cabin. I wonder what that configuration would be? Thanks for this video. VERY informative!!
I’m sure it will be well thought out for space
We were on the Apex last August with a cabin just like the one in your video. We enjoyed the room and kept the doors open the whole time to have extra room. We were on a Scandanavian itinerary so we didn’t have issues with being hot. We did meet a lady who somehow got her finger stuck in the window as it was moving. It wouldn’t move and she finally was able to get help and get her finger out. PSA is to try to keep your hands off the window when going up or down. 😮
Going on the Apex again in April in the same Aqua Class cabin to the Caribbean. I’m anxious to see what the configuration will be this time and hopefully the room doesn’t get really warm. 😬
I was wondering if this is best for colder regions like Alaska. But would it be too cold to keep open in Alaska temps?
Love the infinite Veranda and it would be my preference if on edge class again.
Hi Ilana! Your videos are very informative. We haven't cruised in years, but are going in Oct. Recently ordered your Life Well Cruised, Ultimate Cruise Planner. There are so many tips and a perfect way to be organized for this trip. These modern ships are amazing! Can't wait! Where did you purchase your cute handbag? (The straw one with the wavy look to it).
So glad my videos have been informative & thanks for your purchase. I bought my bag in Barcelona. It’s Loewe & I love it but have only seen it in Europe
My husband and I will be sailing on Celebrity Beyond February 19th. Hopefully we will have the more favorable cabin configuration. This is our first time on Celebrity as we were die-hard Princess cruisers before. Very excited to try a new cruiseline. Thank you for all your very informative videos.
I’m sure you’ll enjoy!!
Love your shirt! 😊
I'm going to have to look up our cabin for my upcoming cruise, first time on an edge class ship . I do see your point on where the bed is located. Thanks for this update.
We loved it by the veranda too, it is a phenomenal cabin, you will love your cruise! My tip is in the buffet, especially on embarkation day, keep walking and go all the way to the back outside. Phenomenal!
Very interesting video Ilana. I have seen you discuss this type stateroom twice now and not sure I would book one. I guess I am old fashioned and really like an actual balcony. I love waking earlier than my wife and sitting on the balcony just enjoying the scenery and warm air around me. We also love having breakfast on our balcony.
Nine days to go till we board the Beyond for 10 days.
Happy cruising Ilana.
Have an amazing cruise! What type of cabin do you have on Beyond?
We are booked in a Celebrity Suite. We are treating ourselves to an amazing cruise.
You will most definitely not be enjoying the infinite veranda in the mornings while your wife sleeps because you have to raise the black out screen and that will likely wake her. This is one of the reasons I really dislike the infinite verandas. On Solstice Class ships you can ease your way around the black out curtain momentarily without letting nearly as much light in and without disrupting her sleep. I speak from experience.
That's us! I don't think I'll ever book an infinite veranda
Very well balanced presentation by a lovely presenter.
Thanks for video! I'm sailing on Celebrity Beyond and have infinite veranda in August.
Great ship! If possible check to see what configuration you have to know what to expect
I like the infinite veranda personally but I’ve only had the bed-near-closet config so thanks for the heads up! Royal is now putting these cabins on the Icon class too FYI …
I saw 👀 lol
Controversial Perspective! Interesting insights on Celebrity Ascent's Infinite Veranda. While it offers a spacious cabin, the configuration matters! Thumbs up for the honest review.
This comes under the heading of "I don't have a dog in this fight" in that I probably won't sail on Celebrity anytime soon, but I just don't like that at all. I would miss the traditional balcony which I just love.
Thank you for your much appreciated insight into this cabin! One off-topic question: I love your purse/tote you were carrying on your shoulder when you boarded. Will you share the link where this can be purchased? Thanks!
Thank you so much for this informative video. I have not cruised on Celebrity yet, but looking at booking. I am with you with the feeling of open space. Can you look at cabin configuration while booking? If so, how? On the other cruises I have booked I have just seen a generic picture of what the cabin may look like. Love your videos, always great information. 😊
Thank you for sharing this video. I’ve never heard of such a verandah or sailed on celebrity but this is very interesting. I’m not sure that I would like it.
We just sailed on Ascent last week and had the port hole veranda on the 6th floor. Friends who were sailing with us had the infinite veranda. After comparing rooms we realized the port hole was AWESOME!! Roomy, quiet and still a great view. Would do it again without hesitation!!
Thanks for sharing!
I really like it. For one there is more privacy from the surrounding balconies. Feels much more private than a typical balcony cabin where you hear and smell everything from the balcony next to you.
Great point
Loved the extended veranda on Celebrity!
It looks great!!
interesting. These ships are not old and it already sounds like there are some mechanical issues with these windows. It's probably a normal number of issues--but it's extremely noticeable when they don't work exactly right. And the typical sliding doors tend not to have any problems. Oh, and minor quibble: 'irregardless' isn't a word, just go with 'regardless'.
Very helpful.
I sailed the Celebrity Apex this past October and had the same configuration. It didn’t bother me but I can see your point of having the veranda as an extension of the sitting area. I’ll try that configuration next time.
A good heads up, Ilana, as I have considered a future booking on Celebrity, and will look at other cabins.
Also, wanted to pass this tip along. On any cruise, especially warmer weather climates, dehydration can sneak up on you. I stated carrying LMNT dehydration packets. They keep you plenty hydrated if you feel it coming on.
Where can you buy them? My friend said they are good also if you get night leg cramps.
Thank you for your video about the layout differences. My hubs & I have an infinite veranda cabin booked in May on the Apex for the Norwegian Fjords. I don't know what the configuration will be and not sure how cruisers will be able to spot the difference when booking. As an aside, since this will be a Norway sailing, the mechanics and effects of opening this window might be a non-issue due to outside temps.
I had booked an infinite veranda on Beyond for an upcoming sailing and have been so nervous…I’m a traditional balcony girl! Got notice today we got an upgrade and it has a traditional balcony 🙌🏻. Thank you for sharing!
Might you be willing to share what your offer was?
@@susanmango2210 it was lower than the middle of the range.
I was on the Beyond in October 2022 and had the configuration with the bed by the closet. I felt there was no room to put things in or take out. Yes, there was more room by the veranda, but I just didn’t feel the ‘balcony’ vibe when sitting there with the window down. I will be on the Ascent in April and have the configuration with the bed by the window. We will have a sunset balcony and my friend has the cabin next door with the bed by closet config. I’m looking forward to enjoying a traditional balcony, morning views of the ocean from bed, and room by the closet for dressing, or enjoying a quick breakfast. I can still take my tea over to the balcony and sit outside if desired. I’ll even have my own lounger to put my feet up.
Thank You for another informative video.
I am curious about how man can choose a cabin with particular layout as you can not see it on the deck map during booking process?
Loved your chat on the room configuration. I do have a question concerning the bedside table that does not have the USB plugs, is there one IN the lamp stand beside the bed? Keep up the great work you do!
Hmmm I don’t think so
There's a USB outlet in the phone.
Hi Ilana thank you for all cruise information you share with us. Can you please talk a little bit about how secure is cruising this day I read that the criminal issue is going up among passengers 😢
I can definitely talk about this, but can I ask your biggest concerns? I have not found cruising on the ships I’ve been on to be unsafe, but I’m happy to share info & tips
I sailed on the Apex in December. I had a porthole veranda on deck 7 and LOVED it. Configuration was with couch near the veranda. I’d book it again in a heartbeat. I LOVE the Edge-class ship.
Thanks for sharing! I’m wondering about these cabins
Love your videos. Just became a subscriber. We only cruise on celebrity and have been on the Apex twice. We will never cruise on a ship again with an infinite veranda. My view when seated was obstructed by the frame in the middle of the window and the folding doors were a pain. Nice ship overall, but no more infinite verandas for me.
It’s true that middle part can block a view as well. Thanks for sharing
Thank you so much for this video… that infinite veranda is for us at all…
I absolutely love you!! (Not in a stalker way!) You have given me so many great ideas! I'm sure you saw Eddie on my profile picture. Can I bring my acoustic guitar with me?
Haha thanks for watching! Truthfully I’m not sure
I requested the cabin with the bed closest to the closet with my travel agent when we sailed Apex. It was great!
We have not booked this type of cabin however, we felt exactly the same about the configuration. We had a club balcony mini suite on 2 different ships. The one with the bed closer to the balcony felt smaller and I wasn't able to curl up on the couch and listen to the sea! Same optical illusion 😂😂😂. The natural light was great for reading. We sail 1 week from today. I hope the couch is next to the balcony 😁 We will love it either way but it honestly felt less cramped configured that way.
Thank you for your review. I have been avoiding this class of Celebrity ships because I just don’t think I will like an intimate balcony. The ships sounds so awesome though I just don’t like the idea of the room getting hot and then having to cook it back down for sleeping. Also if I can’t sleep, I like to go sit out on the balcony and it looks difficult to quietly slip out without waking my husband.
Thank you for your helpful channel! Going on our first cruise on Celebrity Edge, is there anyway to check the bed placement beforehand?
As you pointed out, having the bed near the window makes for a different room. Scheduled on the Beyond in April with brother-in-law next door. We'll be able to observe both configurations. I have read/'heard that having the bed closest tot he closet limits access to the closet. We'll se.
When I first say the picture my first thought was the bed should be closer to the cabin door so you can sit near the water. Interesting you had the same response.
The cruise I just got off of also had the same configuration with a real balcony. It seemed harder to use the balcony too!
Interesting. Something to check for when booking cabins
@@LifeWellCruised Yep except mine was accessible and almost has to have that configuration on most ships so that there’s more turning space for a wheelchair. There are a few that don’t, for example Seabourn, and at least one case on Oceania. Celebrity on their Millenium class has accessible, ocean view cabins with the couch near the windows. As I recall their balconies are that way too but the area is so small it’s tough to remember.
We dislike the infinite “balcony”. To ask, it’s just a window that opens. We missed the nice breeze that a real balcony offers.
Also, I like to sit on the balcony quite often in my husband not quite so often. The problem is that when you open the window, the air conditioning goes off. And when the air conditioning goes off, the room gets really stuffy and it’s very uncomfortable. I like the real balcony where you can sit out on the balcony, feel the breeze, and the air conditioning in the room stays on.
We haven't cruised in Celebrity's Infinite Veranda cabin, but we cruised in a similar cabin on MSC. I don't mind the cabin's layout as long as the cruise line is not trying to charge extra. MSC is selling the same cabin as an "infinite Oceanview" while Celebrity is charging more for its "Infinite Veranda." At least MSC is being honest with what the cabin really is: an oceanview with a sliding window. I'll never pay more for this cabin than a regular balcony cabin.
Great video. Where can I see what the configuration is in each cabin? I didn’t realize you could see this ahead of time. Thanks!
You’d have to do a bit of research
I doubt I'll ever go on a cruise but I like watching your videos and I remember the other video you did with the veranda. It is a lovely feature but I think I would prefer going outside because you can keep the cabin cool. Were there any issues with cooling the room off after you closed the window?
Not sure if this was mentioned in comments, but the captain can also order the windows locked. When this happens, no outside air time at ALL in the room. Though, this usually only happens during inclement weather or high winds.
Hi Elana, We just got back from an eight day cruise on the Celebrity Ascent. I was not impressed at all! Here's what our thoughts are:
First, I had the infinite veranda room. The pros- It had lots of storage space and was just beautifully decorated. We thought the bathroom was a descent size and I could get my mom's walker in and out. The attendant also brought in a chair for her to sit on in the shower, so it's big enough for that too. Good amount of charging ports for the electronics. For us, having the bed closest to the window let my mom's scooter fit and she could maneuver about the room some. If it were the other way around, she wouldn't be able to fit in the room. (Her walker wouldn't fit between the bed and the wall so she could never sit in the veranda.) We also received a canape every afternoon at 3:30. A nice little snack mid-day, if anyone ever needed a snack mid-day on a cruise. lol As far as the Veranda room goes, because we were not in the hot summer months, even with the sliding doors open to the veranda, with the window closed, the room stayed cool. But, I don't think it will during the hot summer months. I loved the view of floor to ceiling water with the shade open. No curtains to pull back and obstruct the view. I had my morning coffee delivered and pushed the button for those blinds to go up for a peaceful start to the day. The cons- Well since I'm on the blind subject, it's loud! Forget trying to quietly pull them up. Everyone is awake for the day now! Also, you can't pull back a section just to peak at the view without pulling them up. They are in a track on three sides. Makes sense as you wouldn't want them to go flapping about or to get sucked out with the window open. Also, since the staterooms are cleaned pretty much throughout the day, and doors are open, if a person has their window open, the halls get muggy. We did experience this just a couple of times. Not bad, just something to mention. Back to the mid-day snack. Unfortunately, it was less than appetizing. I mean spit the food out disgusting. Bread sticks soggy and cakes so dry they crumbled. The cheeses were good though. But why? Why would you serve one plate to a room for two people to split and give only one fork? Hmmm I had to constantly ask for two forks. Not everything was a finger food. Also, the captain has full control over that window in the veranda. On our cruise, he had the windows locked for just slight rain. I get it, the rain would come into the room and problems like mold could occur over time, and I think it should be closed, but if I wanted to sit out, even in a little drizzle, if I had a balcony, I could still do that. So this is something to consider if you are pondering a balcony over a veranda.
The dining experience was most hit and miss. We ate at the Cyprus for most dinners and the Cosmopolitan for breakfast and a few times the buffet or specialty restaurant. The French onion soup always fantastic. It's their number one seller. NO surprise there. But we ordered steaks that were flavorless. I had to ask for butter on them after a while and doused them with salt and pepper. The mashed potatoes tasted bland. My pork marsala was so bad, I sent it back. Many times my mom's food was so tough she couldn't cut it. Others at our table said the same thing. The wait staff was kind enough to cut it for the people, but even they struggled. The desserts were just okay, nothing to write home about. I should say, I haven't cruised since 2018 and my last trip was on the Oasis class, Royal Caribbean, which was wonderful, so I had high expectations going on the Ascent. But... they do have a sugar free dessert option in the buffet and those were delicious! They just need to bring those into the main dining areas.
We did eat at the Fine Cut steakhouse. It was AMAZING! Every little detail was perfect. Steak was full of flavor and oh so tender. The desserts were divine too. I asked the waiter why the main dining rooms weren't cooking the steaks like they were and he told me they had different chefs for different venues. He said the chef team at that restaurant was really good. I heard the same thing from other people about the specialty restaurants. Maybe this is the goal, to offer standard food in the main dining areas and push the money towards these specialty restaurants as another revenue stream for the cruise line.
Biggest disappointment--- I was traveling with my mom who has MS and is 85 years old. This was a trip planned for us for a while as I was just cleared to travel post-leukemia treatment. The first night on board was the Superbowl. We hurried to the theatre to watch it and it was full. Lot's of fun going on in there. It was rather dark as we entered so it took us a second to figure out the layout as they had tables along the back full of Hors D' oeurvres where the handicap people can normally sit. There were two crew members standing at the entrance. When we entered the room, the woman said to me that my mom would need to park her scooter and then go and sit. I explained that she couldn't walk down the stairs. I asked if there was a place for her to go to watch the game. She repeated, "you need to leave, there is no room for you here." I was shocked at the tone coming from this woman. So I turned around and told my mom we needed to leave. She was trying to process it all and turn her scooter around, in the dark, when the officer standing next to her said the same thing. I told him we got the picture and that we were leaving. I was soooo upset and my mom was embarrassed and hurt. I think I was mad that they hurt her! I can understand a room being full and all handicap spots being taken in the theatre, but come on, have some class and know how to say something. I did eventually figure out the game was also on deck 15 and went there. But neither one of them suggested that to us. Nor did they say it was on ESPN in our stateroom. My fault, I should have addressed it with them right then and there. But I didn't and it affected my once in a lifetime trip with my mom. I just couldn't get past it. So everyday was a little bit clouded by that first impression. So finally, on the last night, I saw the officer standing in line and approached him. He remembered us and was so apologetic. He also humbly apologized to my mom. We both forgave him which always feels good, but it did put a bad taste in my mouth day one of the cruise.
Was it worth the price? No! I would rather go on Royal again, unless they too have changed. The captain is very personable and has a great sense of humor. HIs brother is no longer with him but he talks about him lots. Not sure what ship he went to.
Overall a beautifully decorated ship that need lots of work in the food department in the main dining areas. They need to do more training on how to talk with customers with disabilities. Just my rather long two sense!!
Ilana, I get where you’re coming from concerning the location of the bed. It put a barrier between you and the water. My wife just booked us on Celebrity on one of their new ships. Is it possible to request a specific cabin configuration? BTW, this will be my first ever cruise, and love your channel. Thanks for all you do.
I really enjoy your videos addressing different topics. My question is about your not liking the configeration of your room this time. Can we select a different configeration? I have only cruised a few times and can choose where on the ship I want my cabin to be, but have to accept the room configeration as it comes. Is there a site that I can go to ahead of time to see how a particular room is configered? Thank you for all of your help.
Thank you again for your terrific video! I've been wanting to try an infinite verandah & agree with you about the configuration, but how will we know what the configuration is when we book the cabin?
Like you, we've been on Beyond (2023) and Ascent (2024). On the Beyond, we had an Infinite Veranda (Aqua Class) and seem to be in the minority who are "just OK". We didn't love it but we didn't hate it either. I don't remember the configuration we had but I do remember making sure we had one over the other. One of the things I found out on our Ascent cruise was the lighting modes. The only thing I didn't like about them was that using the "Sleep" mode slowly turned off all of the lights (except the bedside lamps), including the bathroom...which is fine unless someone is still utilizing the space.
That also brings up another suggestion for your things to pack. We bought a bunch of LED night lights and now I keep one in my suitcase. Some cabins get DARK!!!!! 🙂
Ive had one 3 times i love it. Im not a balcony person because in found it noisy much of the time.
I like the large window and chairs in front for a view i had no problem lowering window, but i didn't do it often.
In my opinion, the infinite balcony is a scam. You're getting an ocean view room with an upgraded window. For that, they get to charge for a balcony. They can keep it.
The Edge class ships are a scam IMO. It's the beginning of more perks per bigger rooms they call suites (some are true suites, most aren't). I think the next class of Celebriity ships have even more of these infinite verandas but in larger "sky suites" and an expanded "retreat" and they'll have even more upcharges and "specialty restaurants" in them. Celebrity Cruises, my former favorite line, is moving in a bad direction IMO.
Icon of the Seas also has them but they have other real balconies that overlook interior areas of the ship.
We are sailing in April. I was curious on configuration as well. I looked up my room and it’s the set up with the bed near the closet. It’s also a Prime Edge Stateroom , maybe that has something to do with it? Anyway, not a deal bearer for me but I see what you are saying , the room looks larger with the bed nest the closet. Thanks for sharing .
Thank you for yet another informative video. How would I check the configuration of the stateroom? On the app of the cruise or deck plans, I am not able to see this much detail, thank you 🙏🏼
Unfortunately it’s not obvious & would likely require a bit of research. A TA might be able to get the info, or cruise line rep, or check reviews
I just goggle & type in my cabin number & ship- it comes up @@LifeWellCruised
We’re going on Ascent in December 2025. When we booked they gave us an Infinite Veranda cabin with the bed by the window. We changed it to the bed near the bathroom. In general we prefer the couch and living area near the balcony in any room. Definitely feels bigger that way!
My wife and I are thinking about taking our grade school grandkids on a Disney cruise from our hometown of San Diego. Have you done a video about Disney cruises? Thanks for your insights.
I was on the Edge and I loved the Infinite Verandah. The room steward kept closing the blind during the turn down service and I had to ask him to stop. I like being woken up by the sun. Were it not for that, I would just book inside cabins all the time. Now that you mention it, my bed was on the outside which didn't actually bother me. I just looked it up and saw that it's reversed for our upcoming cruise. I'm interested to see if it will feel different as it did for you.
Interesting. Were the same when it comes to being woken up by the natural sunlight
We'll be enjoying our aft balcony on the Apex on the 3rd 😄 Give a Sunset Veranda a try next cruise...
Please post your thoughts after cruise, was thinking about a sunset veranda for the Ascents Panama Canal cruise.
Do you have a video on how to select a cruise travel agent? We don’t have any in our area so I don’t have the benefit of word of mouth recommendation. Thank you!!
I loved the verandah on Beyond but hated it on Ascent. I actually liked Beyond better than Ascent! I also agree that it felt smaller.
Balcony only for me and I travel solo. I got slammed once. "obstructed view" wasn't all that bad. It was the cabin directly under the water slide that was miserable. The slide actually arched out over the ocean slightly RIGHT OVER MY CABIN. Days at sea were the worst
Ugggh!!!
Very interesting how the engineers fixed the noise. What did they do to fix the problem?
Great video. Are there traditional balconies available?
There are sunset verandas & porthole balcony cabins