REVITALISATION A new dawn Celebrity Cruises’ Claire Stirrup tells Laura Hyde how the Solstice Series is evolving to offer new social spaces, expanded accommodation and contemporary interiors Image: Celebrity Cruises’ Sunset Park is a new open-air, top-deck destination with panoramic ocean views and private cabanas Celebrity Cruises is investing more than $250 million to refurbish its five Solstice Series ships, which were introduced between 2008 and 2012. “This investment reflects the brand’s commitment to keeping its most loved ships as modern and compelling as its newest ones,” says Claire Stirrup, managing director for EMEA at Celebrity Cruises. “The Solstice Series continues to resonate strongly with guests – these ships represent the best in classic cruising. Based on guest feedback, Celebrity has evolved Celebrity Solstice to introduce new dining, entertainment, outdoor spaces and staterooms, while preserving the ships’ classic appeal. With strong demand for premium cruising, now is the right moment to ensure these ships remain leaders in their category for years to come.” Celebrity Solstice completed its first refurbishment in early 2026, with the updated ship making its debut in Singapore in March. “The renovations introduce more choice, more space and more flexibility at every touchpoint,” says Stirrup. “Guests will enjoy eight new experiences, including four spaces that are new to Celebrity: Boulevard Lounge, The Parlor, Sunset Park and Trattoria Rossa. Bow-to-stern enhancements also include refreshed accommodation, with updates to all existing staterooms, plus 54 new cabins and four new categories, bringing the total of 1,479. Together, these changes create a more engaging, comfortable and contemporary cruise experience, while staying true to what guests already love about our Solstice Series ships.” Boulevard Lounge is a 125-seat space offering a programme of entertainment throughout the day, while The Parlor is a dark-themed sports and gaming lounge. The ship’s new open-air, top-deck destination, Sunset Park, functions as a social hub for yoga sessions, lawn games and live music. Trattoria Rossa will serve Roman and Southern Italian cuisine, while Fine Cut Steakhouse rounds out the culinary offering with 30-day dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood. “Celebrity Solstice’s new interiors are inspired by modern, elevated hospitality and residential design, with a focus on warmth, flexibility and connection,” says Stirrup. “The aim was to create spaces that feel both stylish and welcoming, encouraging guests to gather, relax and move effortlessly between indoor and outdoor experiences. Overall, guests will enjoy a contemporary, social and immersive onboard atmosphere in Solstice’s new spaces.” 75
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