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.

The dining options onboard were plentiful, with a mix of complimentary and specialty venues. Most of our meals were enjoyed in the Opus Dining Room and the Oceanview Café, both offering a great variety and consistently good service.

We also dined at two of the specialty restaurants:

• The Lawn Club Grill: This outdoor venue quickly became a favorite. With stunning views, grilled meats and seafood, a customizable salad bar, and a variety of flatbread pizzas, it was both delicious and relaxing. We loved it so much we returned for a second visit.
• Tuscan Grille: A beautiful fusion of Italian cuisine and steakhouse classics, this was a perfect choice for our final night onboard. The food and service were exceptional—next time, we’ll make it a point to visit earlier in the cruise so we can enjoy it more than once.

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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