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Celebrity Apex

The Celebrity Apex is the second cruise ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series, launched in 2021. It is known for its innovative, outward-facing design, features unique amenities like the Magic Carpet (a cantilevered platform) and Infinite Verandas (staterooms with balconies that can be closed to create internal living space).

Review of Celebrity Apex Cruise (November 8th-15th)

7 Nt St. Kitts, San Juan & Puerto Plata

  1. ORLANDO (PORT CANAVERAL), FL
  2. PUERTO PLATA, DOMINICAN REP
  3. SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
  4. BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS & NEVIS

We recently had the pleasure of experiencing a week-long cruise aboard the Celebrity Apex, departing from Port Canaveral and stopping at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St. Kitts and Nevis. Here’s a detailed review of our journey:

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

Departure & Embarkation: The embarkation process at Port Canaveral was smooth and well-organized. Staff were friendly and efficient, allowing us to board quickly and start our vacation without hassle.

Ship Amenities: The Apex is a stunning ship with modern design and luxurious amenities. The public spaces, including the Rooftop Garden and the Eden lounge, are beautifully designed and offer plenty of spots to relax or enjoy entertainment.

ACCOMODATIONS

Stateroom: We stayed in an Oceanview stateroom, and although it did not have a balcony / veranda, the cabin was spacious and well-appointed. The large picture window offered breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The bed was very comfortable, and the bathroom had ample space with high-quality toiletries.

DINING

Food Quality: The dining options were fantastic! We did not dine in the main dining room so we can’t offer an opinion, however the specialty restaurants, like the Rooftop Garden, Eden, Le Grand Bistro, Le Petit Chef and Fine Cut Steakhouse, were exceptional! The quality of food was top-notch, with fresh ingredients and creative presentations.

Buffet and Casual Dining: The buffet had a wide variety of options that catered to different tastes, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The casual dining spots, like the Mast Grill, were perfect for a quick bite.

Ports of Call
1. Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic:
– Shore Excursion: We took a tour which included a rum tasting, a bachata and meringue dance class and enjoyed a delicious lunch at La Catalina restaurant on top of a mountain. We especially liked the  scenic drive along the coast and up the mountain. The guide was knowledgeable, and the sights were beautiful.
– Local Culture: The local markets had vibrant crafts and friendly vendors. There were many displays of Larimar which is only mined in the Dominican Republic. Larimar is a semi-precious stone exclusive to the Dominican Republic, known for its beautiful blue color, which ranges from light to deep blue with white or gray veining. A variety of pectolite, it is commonly used in jewelry and is believed to promote calmness and tranquility. We ended up buying some Larimar from a local shop. This tour was a great way to immerse ourselves in Dominican culture.

2. San Juan, Puerto Rico:
– Exploration: We took a tour bus which highlighted the sights of Old and New San Juan. The colorful buildings and historical forts, like El Morro, were impressive. We then strolled through Old San Juan and had lunch at La Casita de Los Rones – this was truly a highlight. La Casita de Los Rones (The House of Rums) is a vibrant rum bar and eatery situated in the historic district of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. It features a wide array of Caribbean rums and offers a menu filled with flavorful Puerto Rican dishes. The decor was very colorful and we had the treat of live music at lunch that day. 
– Shopping: There were plenty of shops offering local crafts and souvenirs within walking distance of the pier. 

3. St. Kitts and Nevis:
Nevis Island Tour: We enjoyed a fantastic tour starting with a water taxi ride to Nevis that showcased key attractions:

  • Alexander Hamilton’s Birthplace
    The historical site was fascinating, with a small museum highlighting Hamilton’s early life. Our guide shared engaging stories that brought the history to life.
  • St. Thomas’ Church
    Visiting the oldest Anglican Church in the Caribbean was an experience. The architecture was beautiful, and the guide provided insightful context about its history.
  • Lime Coconut Restaurant
    Lunch at this vibrant spot was a treat! The local offerings were delicious, and the friendly service made it even better. Don’t miss the refreshing rum punch!
  • Pinneys Beach
    The tour concluded at Pinneys Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand and clear waters. It was the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.

ENTERTAINMENT
– Shows and Activities: The nightly entertainment was fantastic, featuring Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy acts. The ship also offered various activities, from trivia games to cooking classes, keeping everyone engaged.

SERVICE
– Staff Attitude: The crew was exceptionally friendly and attentive. They went out of their way to ensure we had a memorable experience, from our stateroom attendant to the dining staff.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Celebrity Apex cruise was an unforgettable experience, combining luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Each port offered something unique, and the ship itself was a destination in its own right. We highly recommend this cruise for anyone looking to explore the Caribbean in style.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars)