First Impressions: Understated Luxury
Let’s rewind to 2015—back when I first sailed on Celebrity Reflection. If you’re someone who loves elegant spaces, top-notch food, and a grown-up vibe (without the splash parks or noisy pool games), this ship just might be your kind of getaway.
From the moment I stepped onboard, the overall design just worked. Clean lines, stylish lounges, and a modern feel without trying too hard. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. Everything felt curated for adults who want a relaxing, upscale escape at sea—think more “calm sophistication” than “big, bold and brash.”
My Stateroom: A Balcony Retreat
I stayed mid-ship on Deck 11 in a balcony cabin—a brilliant location for being near all the action and not dealing with noise. Décor-wise, it was tasteful and clean, though now (a few years later), some bits might feel a little dated compared to the newer ships. Still, it was well laid out, storage was generous, and the bathroom had more space than I expected. No complaints here!
Let’s Talk Food (Because Honestly… It Was a Highlight)
If you cruise for the food, Reflection delivers.
Murano was the absolute standout—French-inspired, elegant, and perfect for a special evening. The Chateaubriand carved tableside? Unreal. Plus, the wine pairings were on point.
Tuscan Grille brought a rustic, modern Italian vibe. I had one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten at sea, and the fresh pasta was rich, hearty, and satisfying.
The Lawn Club Grill? That one’s for fun. Open air, relaxed, and you can even get involved in the cooking if that’s your thing. Loved the vibe, especially on a warm evening.
For something more casual, Opus Restaurant (main dining) consistently served solid meals, while Oceanview Café offered plenty of variety—just try to dodge peak times. Café al Bacio became my daily ritual: cappuccino and a pastry every morning. Bliss.
Entertainment & Extras
There was always something going on, but it never felt crowded. Evening shows were polished and enjoyable, and the daytime activities struck a nice balance: trivia, wine tastings, cooking demos… all great ways to spend a sea day without being glued to a sun lounger.
One highlight? A wine-tasting excursion in Santorini. Small group, boutique wineries, and a chance to learn about the island’s unique volcanic soil and wine styles. We wrapped up with time in Fira, soaking in those iconic views. Just magical.
Service: Gold Star Stuff
Across the board, the crew were fantastic. Friendly, professional, and genuinely seemed to care. From stateroom attendants to the dining teams, everything ran smoothly—and the service played a big part in what made this cruise feel so effortless.
A Couple of (Very Minor) Niggles
No cruise is perfect. At peak times, the buffet could get a bit hectic. On a few occasions, drink service was slow when the venues were jam-packed. But honestly? These were tiny things in an otherwise fantastic experience.
Would I Sail on Reflection Again?
I’d do it in a heartbeat. If you’re after a cruise that feels polished but still personal, where food is a major highlight and relaxation comes easy, Celebrity Reflection ticks all the boxes. And next time? I’ll be first in line for a return visit to Murano.
