Celebrity Cruises, Best of New Zealand

Itinerary: Celebrity Cruises, Best of New Zealand (Auckland to Wellington segment)
Sailing Date: 18 October 2026
Ship: Celebrity Solstice
Author: Candice van den Bos – Infinity Cruise

Celebrity Solstice has had a USD $120 million makeover, and I recently spent a week onboard sailing from Auckland to Wellington to see it for myself. The verdict? It’s a very different ship, and one your clients are going to love. Here are my top ten highlights to help you sell it with confidence.

1. The Retreat – Celebrity Solstice has completely reimagined The Retreat, the exclusive all-suite ship-within-a-ship experience. The old basketball court has made way for new suites, and an entire new level has been added for The Retreat Sundeck. Located on Deck 16 and reserved for suite guests only, it’s an elegant space with an oversize hot tub, plush daybeds, canopied lounge beds, shaded loungers, its own dedicated bar and Retreat attendants on hand. Add Luminae, the private restaurant reserved for suite guests, and The Retreat Lounge, and it’s a fantastic upsell. Better still, all Retreat guests automatically receive the All Included package, beverages included, so there’s real value to talk through with clients.

2. Sunset Park – This reimagined top deck space replaces the former Lawn Club. Think lawn games like bocce and cornhole, private cabanas, daybeds, and the Sunset Park Cafe for grab-and-go bites.

3. Cabana Hire – Ideal for a special occasion. Cabanas can be prebooked or booked through the shore excursion desk, for a half or full day. The hire includes a welcome drink, and guests can order food and drinks on top or use their drinks package.

4. Trattoria Rossa – This specialty Italian restaurant is a winner. If you can’t decide between the Primi and Secondi, my tip is to order small portions and try more. Finish with tiramisu and cannoli prepared tableside.

5. Fine Cut Steakhouse – The dinner was every bit as good as hoped, and we definitely ordered far too much food. The sommelier was on hand with wine suggestions, and we tried the exclusive Opulence private-label wine from Grgich Hills Estate, crafted in partnership with Celebrity Cruises. The partnership features custom-blended Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Only on Celebrity Solstice: Warm Cookie Hour at 3.30pm, with giant fresh baked cookies and a new flavour every day.

6. The Martini Bar – High energy and a popular spot before dinner or late at night. The signature ice-topped counter sets the scene, and the mixologists put on a show with bottle spinning, glass stacking and multi-pour routines set to upbeat music.

7. Evening Entertainment – There is something for every mood. Enjoy dueling pianos in the Boulevard Lounge, classic Broadway hits in The Theatre, and adults only comedy shows late at night. Live music and DJs pop up throughout the ship as well.

8. The Silent Disco – This was the surprise hit of the week. Guests turned out in force, choosing between a local DJ, salsa and latin, or hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s. Pure fun, and a great one to mention to clients who like a social cruise.

9. The Parlor – A social lounge and game space with board games, darts, shuffleboard, pool and sports TVs. It’s a great option if you’re not ready for bed after the late night show at The Theatre.

10. The Staff – Your cabin steward learns your name and greets you in the hallway, and the banter with crew is friendly and genuine. Everyone says good morning as you pass. It makes the ship feel warm and welcoming from day one.

Celebrity Solstice is a great fit for clients who want a social, fun-filled cruise with standout dining and entertainment, all close to home. For clients who want to go a step further, The Retreat brings exclusive spaces and the All Included package. If you’d like to know more, or you’re ready to start putting a booking together, get in touch with the Infinity Cruise team on and we’ll be happy to help.