Celebrity Cruises is returning to the UK this Summer!
This morning Celebrity Cruises have announced the Celebrity Silhouette will be offering a series of six to eight-night “Luxury Staycation” sailings from Southampton THIS SUMMER!
The luxury cruise line has jumped on the bandwagon following similar announcements from other brands within the past week. Celebrity will offer sailings from July through October.
Aligned with Disney Cruise Line and other operators, only residents of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be permitted to sail on these UK “staycations”.
Celebrity have stated that all guests aged 18 and above must have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Those under the age of 18 must have a negative PCR test. Additional testing and other protocols are to be confirmed closer to the time of sailing.
Celebrity are one of my favourite cruise lines, who I’ve had the fortune to sail with on three previous occasions. Their Solstice-class vessels are spectacular and I love the modern design… there’s even half an acre of REAL grass at sea! Whats more, the Celebrity Silhouette underwent a major refurbishment in early 2020 and you could be one of the first to experience her when sailings resume.
The 122,400 ton-vessel now features re-imagined accommodations, public spaces and so much more. You can find out more in the video below:
Itineraries
According to the website, you will have the chance to explore the Jurassic Coastline from Portland, discover the bustling Scottish cities and stunning highlands from Inverness, Kirkwall and Glasgow, uncover the rich history of Belfast on the Emerald Isle, plus immerse yourselves in the creative and cultural hub of Liverpool, home of the Beatles! In other words, getting to experience the best of what the UK has to offer during a “Great British Summer”. I just hope the weather gets the memo…
What’s Included?
As part of Celebrity’s “Always Included” proposition, the following features are included on these sailings:
- Drinks – Choose from an array of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks and wines by the glass.
- Wi-Fi
- Tips – All gratuities are covered, allowing guests to simply sit back, relax and enjoy your holiday.
What will cruising be like?
Like all cruise lines, Celebrity will implement a number of health and safety precautions to help keep everyone safe, which will take into consideration the latest news and advice from the UK government and public health authorities.
Further information regarding Celebrity”s Healthy At Sea initiatives can be found here. It does look at though they hope to offer as close to a “near normal” cruising experience as possible, with a reduced capacity, physical distancing and enhanced cleaning measures in place.
How much will it cost and when can I book?
Pricing is unknown, but bookings will open on the 6th April, which is just over a week away.
Celebrity have their “Cruise with Confidence” promise, which allows flexibility to cancel up until 48-hours prior to sailing. For more details as they emerge, be sure to check out the Celebrity Cruises website or contact your preferred travel agent.
Bottom Line
I’m excited that another cruise line has announced their intention to offer UK sailings this summer, albeit with longer itineraries. The caveat that all guests aged 18 and over to be vaccinated may deter many, but the UK Government aspire for the majority of adults to receive at least one jab by the Summer.
What are your thoughts? Are you considering taking to the high seas once again?
