ITTN’s Zoe Walsh spent three nights onboard Celebrity Apex on a Mega Fam sailing from Lisbon to Southampton, and from the very beginning, it was clear it was going to be something special.
Stepping onto a Celebrity Cruises ship feels like you are getting a warm hug; everything has already been thought of for you. It is premium travel in the most relaxed and refined way, where luxury feels naturally built into every detail. Celebrity Apex, the second ship in the brand’s Edge Series, perfectly captures this balance, combining bold, contemporary design with a guest experience that feels both elevated and personal. Sailing to over 300 destinations across more than 70 countries, Celebrity Cruises has redefined what a modern cruise should feel like, and Apex is a standout example of that vision brought to life.
The ship itself is impressive in scale, offering 1,467 staterooms including 176 suites and 126 AquaClass cabins, each designed with comfort and style in mind. One of the most talked about features is the Infinite Veranda. A very clever design that transforms the traditional balcony into a seamless indoor-outdoor space at the touch of a button allowing guests to enjoy the ocean views in a completely new way. ITTN’s Zoe had the pleasure of staying in a Concierge Infinite Veranda stateroom on Deck 11 (room 11153) where added touches like a personalised pillow menu and a dedicated stateroom attendant made the experience feel even more personalised.
Dining onboard is simply a highlight. With 29 food and beverage experiences available, there is a real sense of variety without it ever feeling overwhelming. The four main dining restaurants Cosmopolitan, Normandie, Cyprus, and Tuscan each bring their own identity, from modern American flavours to French-inspired classics, Greek heritage dishes, and Italian favourites. Beyond that, the specialty restaurants take things to another level. Fine Cut Steakhouse offers a more upscale classic dining experience, while Le Petit Chef brings something completely different with its playful 3D table animation that turns dinner into a show. Raw on 5 is a go to for fresh sushi and seafood, and the Rooftop Garden Grill delivers a more relaxed open-air setting that is perfect for unwinding in the evening and watching the sunset over the sea.
Apex also features a wide selection of bars and lounges each with its own atmosphere whether you are looking for lively or more laid-back. Craft Social Bar is perfect for casual drink especially for sports fans, while the Martini Bar sits at the heart of the ship under the glow of the Grand Plaza’s striking LED chandelier. Eden Bar, set within one of the ship’s most unique spaces, offers a more immersive space where guests can enjoy drinks while dining and entertainment all in one place. Eden is one of Apex’s popular spots for dinner and drinks.
When it comes to entertainment and activities on Apex there is genuinely something happening at every moment of the day. From morning stretch classes and fitness sessions to trivia, interactive games, and themed movie nights. The schedule is packed but easy to navigate. Each evening, guests receive a daily programme in their room. Everything is also accessible through the Celebrity app, making it simple to plan your day on the Calendar where you can also get notifications, so you are not missing out on anything!
The wellness offering onboard is equally impressive. The spa provides a calm luxurious escape with over 120 treatments available, including advanced facials, massage therapies, and holistic options like acupuncture. The SEA Thermal Suite adds another layer to the experience, while the salon and med spa services ensure every aspect of relaxation is covered. The ship also features three distinct pool areas: the lively main resort deck pool, the adult only Solarium for a quieter indoor atmosphere and an exclusive pool area reserved for suite guests, giving everyone options. The Retreat offers a private suite-only experience, complete with its own restaurant, lounge, and sundeck. Accommodation options here include some of the most impressive spaces at sea. The Iconic Suites and two-storey Edge Villas. AquaClass are for those focused on wellness, offering spa perks, unlimited access to thermal facilities and exclusive dining at Blu, a more intimate and health-conscious restaurant.
Overall, Celebrity Apex is more than just a cruise ship; it is a carefully curated experience that blends modern luxury with thoughtful design and genuine attention to detail. From the dining and entertainment to the accommodation and wellness spaces, creating an atmosphere that feels both exciting and completely relaxing at the same time. Celebrity Apex exceeds expectations, and will definitely have you already thinking about your next trip before you’ve even stepped off the ship.
ITTN’s Zoe Walsh extends sincere thanks to Celebrity Cruises & TAP Air Portugal for the invite to this exceptional Mega Fam.
