Century Review

take her through the Hawaiian Islands. She also offers a series of round-trip cruises from San Diego to Hawaii and transits through the Panama Canal between San Diego and Fort Lauderdale for the remainder of the winter season.

Although quietly elegant, Celebrity Century has an eclectic air, due in part to the fine collections of modern and classical art displayed throughout public rooms. A 2006 refit added a stunning specialty restaurant, an ice-topped martini bar, 14 suites, and 10 staterooms (both inside and outside), not to mention 314 verandas—the most ever added to an existing cruise ship at that time.

Century has facilities for children and teens, but adults fare much better on board with a spectacular spa and sophisticated lounges dedicated to a variety of tastes. The dining room is nothing short of gorgeous. Overall, the first impression is that this is a fine resort hotel that just happens to float.

The Chandris Group, owners of budget Fantasy Cruises, founded Celebrity in 1989. Initially utilizing an unlovely, refurbished former ocean liner from the Fantasy fleet, Celebrity gained a reputation for professional service and fine food despite the shabby-chic vessel on which it was elegantly served. The cruise line eventually built premium sophisticated cruise ships. Signature amenities followed, including large standard staterooms with generous storage, fully equipped spas, and butler service. Valuable art collections grace the fleet.

Although spacious accommodations in every category are a Celebrity standard, Concierge-class, an upscale element on all ships, makes certain premium ocean-view and balcony staterooms almost the equivalent of suites in terms of service. A Concierge-class stateroom includes numerous extras, such as chilled champagne, fresh fruit, and flowers upon arrival; exclusive room-service menus; evening canapés; luxury bedding, pillows, and linens; upgraded balcony furnishings; priority boarding and luggage service; and other VIP perks. At the touch of a single telephone button, a Concierge-class desk representative is at hand to offer assistance. Suites are still the ultimate, though, and include the services of a butler to assist with unpacking, booking spa services and dining reservations, shining shoes, and even replacing a popped button.