In May 2025, I had the opportunity to check off a long-time bucket list item: a trip to the Southern Caribbean aboard Celebrity Reflection. Our itinerary included the beautiful ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—which we’d been eager to explore for quite some time.

We chose to sail with Celebrity Cruises because we wanted to try a different cruise line after hearing so many glowing reviews. Having previously sailed on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, which was a truly "wow" experience, Celebrity had some big shoes to fill—but they certainly made their mark in their own elegant way.

From the moment we stepped onboard, the level of service was noticeably elevated. We were able to drop our carry-ons in our staterooms immediately, complete our safety briefing efficiently, and even sit down to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the dining room shortly after boarding. Everything flowed smoothly, setting the tone for a refined and stress-free vacation.

Despite being an older ship, the Celebrity Reflection has been immaculately maintained. Its decor gave off the ambiance of a luxurious hotel more than a traditional cruise ship. The atmosphere was peaceful and inviting, and every crew member greeted us with a warm smile.

Dining aboard the ship was a true pleasure. We chose the main dining room most evenings, where the service was nothing short of exceptional. The staff were warm, attentive, and quickly learned our preferences, making every meal feel personal and special. The food itself was consistently delicious, and the entire experience was memorable from start to finish.

For my birthday, we celebrated with a special dinner at Chops, the ship’s signature steakhouse. I ordered the New York Strip, which was quite simply the best steak I’ve ever had. The service was impeccable, and the evening was unforgettable. I can’t recommend Chops highly enough—it’s a must for any steak lover.

While the entertainment didn’t quite reach the spectacle of the Icon of the Seas, we were never bored. The Elton John tribute show was a standout performance with impressive singing, dancing, and crowd engagement—it genuinely felt like being at a real concert.

Other highlights included the 80s theme night and, my personal favorite, the silent disco party. If you’ve never attended one, it’s a must! Dancing with fellow cruisers, each person tuned into their own music channel, made for a hilarious and high-energy evening. Watching everyone sing along to different songs at the same time added to the fun.

Each port had its own charm:

• Aruba: We rented a car and explored the north side of the island before relaxing at Baby Beach. The water was a surreal shade of blue, the sand was soft, and the calm waves made it perfect for wading. A kind encounter with fellow travelers who gifted us their chairs and umbrella made the day even more memorable.
• Curaçao: We spent the day at Mambo Beach, sipping drinks and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. It was laid-back and picturesque—the ideal beach day.
• Bonaire: Here, we kept it simple and wandered through the port area. We shopped, stopped at a waterfront restaurant for drinks and appetizers, and soaked in the island’s relaxed vibe.

Each destination was unique, and I’d highly recommend this itinerary if the ABC Islands are on your list.

Disembarkation was just as seamless as embarkation. Within no time, we were off the ship and through customs with no hassle.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, upscale cruise experience—especially one that emphasizes exceptional service, delicious dining, and beautiful destinations—Celebrity Reflection is an excellent choice. It may not be a party ship or the most kid-focused, but for adults seeking sophistication and tranquility, it delivers a truly world-class experience.

Hockcloud Travel creates unforgettable, curated experiences by designing personalized journeys tailored to your needs. We handle every detail of your itinerary so you can travel “without worry” and enjoy complete peace of mind.

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