Celebrity Cruises (Not So) Secret Locations

Cruise ships are enormous these days. But even if you don't cruise on the super-sized ships, they are still spacious and have many areas that you may not even know about. I'm not talking about what's in the crew's quarters (although I really want to see) but I love it when my family unexpectedly finds a spot or new experience that we haven't discovered yet. Our favorite secrets have always been found on Celebrity Cruises.

On Celebrity Reflection, unless your cabin is located on Deck 9 or close by, you may not realize that there is a fantastic electronic game room on this deck. "Game On" is a great spot to pull out a board game or a deck of cards. But the main attraction are the electronic table games. And don't think they are just for kids. Yes, they definitely appeal to the younger set (and a great spot to keep them busy while adults want some extra relaxing or dressing time) but most of the time it's hard to keep the adults away. With fun, quick thinking, and unique games, this area is a great place for all ages to socialize. Trust me on this one.

Another favorite is exclusively on the Celebrity Silhouette and the Celebrity Reflection. Head to "The Hideaway" for a unique lounging area. Sink inside one of the private nooks and you'll almost feel transformed to a secret treehouse in the forest. The best part? You'll always find a stocked coffee bar to pour yourself a hot cup of delicious coffee and get cozy. They don't have that service in just any forest! 

The Hideaway is two levels and found on Decks 7 and 8

Definitely a secret...no one would find you in here

How can you resist this hideaway?

Great place to relax after a busy day at sea!

If you are looking for a great spot to watch the sunset, head up to the Sky Observation Lounge on Celebrity Cruises S-Class ships. It's definitely called that for a reason. With comfortable seating, it provides the perfect view. I know this lounge isn't really much of a "secret," but on our last cruise, we went as a family before dinner one evening. We were surprised to see they had an extensive non-alcoholic drink menu. They offer a variety of exclusive choices and really delicious. With a refreshing drink in their hand, my boys love the cushy chairs and the looking out of the large glass windows. 

 If cruising on Celebrity Reflection or Silhouette, you'll always feel secretly hidden away in your own Alcove. Set on the lawn in the back of the ship are spacious alcoves to rent for a day.  The Alcoves are a luxurious spot to relax in the sun while enjoying the beautiful lawn with the ocean as a backdrop. We also love to use it as a meet-up place for the family. That way everyone can do their own activity on the ship and still know that it's reserved for them all day. Not to mention, your own butler is available to bring drinks (a few bottles of water and a fruit platter are included) or arrange for lunch or even a spa service. Check if your next Celebrity Cruise has Alcoves available and definitely book one in advance. 

My favorite surprise was on Celebrity Summit when we were talking to the fantastic Captain's Club Hostess. We always cruise with our kids and she was chatting along with them as well. Next thing we know, she said "Come with me." We accompanied her back to her desk, and she magically pulled out travel toys, a deck of playing cards and even some candy. (You'd think the ship didn't have any food on it the way my boys stared at that candy!) She definitely stole their hearts that day and we still have the deck of cards. I can't promise you that every Captain's Club Hostess has a magical stash, but they are always so friendly and interesting. Whether you are on your first cruise with Celebrity Cruises or your 100th, definitely seek them out and introduce yourself. 

Maybe you already frequent these spots when on a Celebrity Cruise, but it's always exciting when you make your own discoveries, have unexpected experiences, or learn a new secret.  That's the best way to make each cruise vacation the most memorable.