And with that, she had summed up Celebrity Edge.
Other guests on every deck echoed her admiration – everyone wanted to discuss their favourite features. For some it was the artwork. Unique pieces are placed everywhere – from the distinctive modern art pieces adorning every lift to the wooden sculptures throughout the ship (designed by Charles Dickens’ great-great-granddaughter) and even the three-storey chandelier in the Grand Plaza, which features its own light display.
For me, it was the ship’s environmental aspects. Reusable aluminium water bottles and refillable toiletries in staterooms are notable, and will hopefully set a precedent for other lines. Meanwhile the hull’s design has apparently helped Edge achieve 20% greater energy efficiency per passenger per day compared with the line’s Solstice-class ships.
Other striking features include the Magic Carpet – it has the feel of a trendy London bar in the evenings while also offering a much more enjoyable way to board tenders when in use as a launch pad.
Meanwhile Eden – which serves as both a restaurant and bar – made me feel as if I had entered a performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by night. By day it offered the perfect respite for those wanting to relax and enjoy incredible views.
Celebrity Edge has put a new twist on the line’s mantra of “modern luxury”. And it will be interesting to note how rival lines respond – and how many look to replicate its Infinite Veranda concept.
At the very least, its focus on sustainability should be applauded – and adopted – by others. If so, Edge will indeed prove a game changer: not just for cruise, but for travel as a whole.
