Cruising in Style: My Review of Celebrity Beyond
Travel to Fort Lauderdale and Embarkation
We flew into Fort Lauderdale on the day of our Celebrity Beyond cruise, which we typically avoid due to possible weather delays. To be safe, we had an emergency plan, including a hotel reservation in case of any last-minute issues, which we canceled two days before. Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic pre- or post-cruise port with beautiful beaches, great hotels, and delicious restaurants. We took an Uber from the airport to the port—a quick 15-20-minute drive. The only slowdown was at the port entrance, where you must have your ID ready. Check-in at the terminal was fast and efficient, and we were on the ship within 15 minutes. It was great timing since our flight arrival aligned perfectly with our assigned boarding time.
Disembarkation was equally smooth. We opted for the "walk-off" option, keeping our luggage and rolling off at 7:45 a.m. Thanks to the facial recognition system, passing through Customs and Border Control was a breeze, and we were back in an Uber to the airport within minutes.
Dining Options
Dining on Celebrity Beyond was an adventure, with many options to suit every mood and craving. As AquaClass guests, we enjoyed Blu, where the clean, health-focused cuisine gave us a refreshing start and end to our days. Our first night at Blu was a bit chaotic, as the ship was packed and everyone seemed to arrive at once, but the remaining three nights were lovely, with a relaxed vibe. We enjoyed conversations with neighboring tables, making each meal more memorable.
The four main dining rooms on the ship are beautifully designed, each with a themed menu offering a range of cuisines and global flavors. We explored these even though we didn't dine there.
Cabin Options
We stayed in an Aqua Class Infinite Veranda cabin, which we enjoyed, especially the open floor-to-ceiling window, creating an airy, open feel connecting you to the sea. This cabin type tends to be a "love it or hate it" choice among cruisers, but after staying in it a second time, we found ourselves liking it more this round. The AquaClass amenities made our cabin feel like a true wellness retreat, and having access to the Thermal Suite in the spa was a perfect perk for unwinding in steam rooms and heated loungers.
Entertainment
Entertainment on Beyond was a delightful mix, with immersive activities throughout the day and evening. We enjoyed the trivia, archery, and the "Ship Experience" Wines Around the World, where we sampled various wines with insights from sommeliers. It was a lovely way to relax and learn about wine, adding a unique dimension to our evenings onboard.
The Theater on Celebrity Beyond
The shows in the Theater stood out. They blended energetic performances with immersive experiences that took full advantage of cutting-edge technology and open spaces. Truly captivating!
Bars and Social Spots
Celebrity Beyond's range of bars kept each evening fresh and fun. Craft Social became a go-to for its lively atmosphere and the friendly crew who made each visit memorable. We wished the space was bigger.
Martini Bar in the Grand Foyer
The Martini Bar in the Grand Foyer was an experience, with bartenders putting on a show and creating a vibrant atmosphere. We also enjoyed the Sunset Bar, a spacious, terraced area with Moroccan and Mediterranean vibes, perfect for an evening cocktail as the sun dipped below the horizon. The only minus for us was that you walked up the stairs next to the designated smoking area to access the bar from the aft of the Oceanview Cafe. The Pool Bar and hidden Mast Bar added convenience and charm for poolside relaxation. The Mast Bar was tucked away, a pleasant little find that was easy to miss but offered a quiet escape with great views.
Specialty Dining Experiences
Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud
We thoroughly enjoyed our specialty dining experiences on Beyond. Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud was a culinary journey worth every bite, featuring unique, beautifully presented dishes inspired by Boulud's global travels. Dining at Eden felt like stepping into a different world, where imaginative cuisine and creative presentations made each course a treat. The Rooftop Garden Grill also offered a wonderful experience with casual yet elevated dishes. Though we encountered some rain and the lack of covered walkways, the ambiance was unbeatable for a relaxed outdoor meal.
Luxury Shops
For a bit of retail therapy, Beyond's luxury shops were perfect. Featuring high-end brands like Cartier and Bulgari and a well-curated selection of non-high-end “think Celebrity branded apparel and summer fashions,” they were a great place to browse or find a treat to bring home.
Overall Impressions
Celebrity Beyond fulfilled our expectations with its elevated design and thoughtful updates from Edge and Apex. The activities staff brought energy to everything, from archery to trivia, and we felt that every detail onboard was designed to enhance our experience. If you're looking for a cruise that combines style and a range of activities and dining, the Celebrity Beyond is well worth it.
