June 2005

by Tim Larison, CLIA Master Cruise Counsellor (MCC)

This was my first chance to see a Celebrity ship. The Mercury is an older vessel (built in 1997) which is due to undergo a renovation soon. While the ship was well maintained, the regular staterooms looked small. The Royal Suite, though, was very roomy and luxurious.  I would sail in the Royal Suite any day!

This "Century Class" ship did not have some of the features of the newer and larger Millennium class ships (like the Cirque du Soleil's "The Bar at the edge of the Earth"). We were treated to snacks and a Acapella singing group in the ship's show theatre (Acapella singers are a feature on all Celebrity ships).  For the 2005 season I think there are better 7 night options on newer ships sailing out of Seattle.

I was impressed with how well this inspection was run and the level of service we received - this inspection encouraged me to schedule a Celebrity cruise for my family in August 2005 on a Millennium class ship - the Summit.