Cruising on the Celebrity BEYOND was an experience like no other. This luxurious ship offers so many amenities and activities that are sure to make your vacation a memorable one! So I was BEYOND excited at the chance to sail around the Caribbean with Celebrity Cruises to: St. Maarten, St. Thomas USVI, and the Dominican Republic!
One of the standout features of the Celebrity Beyond is its elegant & modern design. The ship boasts sleek lines and contemporary decor, creating a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere. Nate Burkus even designed some aspects of the ship (The Sunset Bar – one of my favorite spots on the ship!) You can enjoy a range of luxurious amenities, including the spa, fitness center (with on-board F45 classes!), and multiple dining options. The ship also offers an array of entertainment options, including live music, shows, and movie screenings! One of the main draws of the Celebrity Beyond is its spacious and well-appointed staterooms and suites. You can choose from a variety of room categories, each offering a different level of luxury and amenities. We stayed in their Aquaclass Veranda Stateroom and it was such a perfect space for us! The bed was a king bed and being able to roll down the large window at the edge of the room is such a special experience while at sea! Whether you’re looking for a simple interior room or a lavish suite with a private balcony, the Celebrity Beyond has something to suit every taste and budget.
The ship also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants. Guests can indulge in delicious meals at a variety of venues, including the main dining room, the Oceanview Cafe, and the Sunset Bar. The ship also offers a selection of bars and lounges, where guests can enjoy a drink or a snack while taking in the beautiful views.
The Celebrity Beyond also offers a variety of activities and excursions for guests to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the ship has something for everyone. From swimming and snorkeling to yoga and fitness classes, the Celebrity Beyond offers a wide range of activities to keep guests entertained and engaged. Lastly, the ship’s itineraries are carefully planned to showcase the best destinations and ports of call. The Celebrity Beyond sails to a variety of destinations, including the Caribbean, Mexico, the Mediterranean, and more. You can explore the culture, history, and natural beauty of each destination and create unforgettable memories!
To Eat on the Celebrity Beyond:
- Eden – Eden Restaurant continues to offer uniquely personal culinary journeys designed to not only excite your taste buds but every other sense as well. Simple. Natural. Delicious. The experience in Eden restaurant is inspired by the cuisines and regions of the world. The tasting menu at Eden is also an incredible journey to go on – 8 courses are perfectly paired with wine! We loved the Gnocchi and Crabcake from here – definitely don’t miss them!
- Fine Cut Steakhouse – Fine Cut Steakhouse delivers an upscale dining experience, with a wide selection of choice meats and fresh, premium seafood. Inside, the space is warm and inviting, with a distinctive, private dining room within a wine storage installation. The design was inspired by the superior workmanship of a couture jeweler. In fact, we affectionately refer to this dazzling space as the “jewel box.” Be sure to get the heirloom tomatoes, bone-in filet and the gruyere tater tots are a must!
- Le Grand Bistro – Inspired by classic French bistros, the mouthwatering sights, scents, and sounds of a bustling boulangerie-patisserie will excite you almost as much as the food itself. The ambiance changes from morning to evening, and you have seating options that range from the planter-edged sidewalk to the inner café with stunning views of the sea. Don’t skip the French Onion Soup and the “Francois” Burger!
- Le Petit Chef – Using innovative technology created by Skullmapping we’re bringing your tabletop to life in Le Grand Bistro with a brand new Le Petit Chef experience. Animated characters appear beside your plate and prepare each course you’ll be enjoying right in front of you before you’re served the actual dish. It’s an immersive fusion of entertainment and dining like nothing you’ve experienced before.
- Le Voyage – World-renowned chef Daniel Boulud has created his first signature restaurant at sea, and as the name implies, travel is the inspiration for the mouthwatering dishes he created. The globally inspired flavors he’s infused into his menu will transport you to the very places that inspired them. This was one of our favorite meals on board, such a special experience! Everything from the King Crab Salad to the Filet Mignon was incredible.
- Raw on 5 – The dramatic raw bar display at the entrance showcases an abundance of oysters, crab, and lobsters to choose from. The menu features more casual offerings like Shrimp Salad, our signature Lobster Roll, and sushi and sashimi prepared by our expert sushi chefs. Be sure to get the Beyond Roll, Lobster and Shrimp wontons and the Hamachi Crudo!
- Blu – Blu, the exclusive restaurant for AquaClass® guests, offers new clean cuisine menu options that are focused on a healthier lifestyle. These delicious dishes are perfectly complemented by an extensive list of sustainable, biodynamic wines. Pair all of that with stylish new décor and impeccable, personalized service, and you have the fresh and bold experience of Blu.
- Cosmopolitan – The walk-through wine display at the entrance sets the scene for the cuisine you’ll enjoy here—new American with global influences. If you’ve selected Celebrity Select Dining Anytime, reservations are highly recommended.
- Cyprus – Using Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, as their inspiration, the Celebrity team created a heavenly ambiance that perfectly combines delicate, airy elements with brilliant gold, sculptural accents. It’s a stately space where gods and goddesses would surely meet for a divine feast fit for… well, gods and goddesses. With its reimagined interior, the mouthwatering menus of Cyprus remain focused on seafood and feature simple, clean dishes that celebrate the food and beverages of the Mediterranean region.
- Normandie – Inspired by our elegant Murano specialty dining venue on several of their ships, Normandie Restaurant features contemporary French cuisine in a modern and refined setting that evokes the romance of summertime in Paris, with a color palette reminiscent of cherry blossoms in full bloom. You can truly say Normandie Restaurant is the French quarter of the main dining experience on our Edge Series ships.
- Tuscan – Borrowing from the success of our hugely popular specialty dining venue, Tuscan Grille, Tuscan Restaurant elevates those successes to new heights. Step inside and discover Italian-inspired cuisine along with an equally delicious ambiance, featuring a modern classical design inspired by Italian fashion and film.
To Drink on the Celebrity Beyond:
- World Class Bar – The Beyond’s “fine drinking” experience, where the ritual of making cocktails is just as exciting as drinking them. Using the freshest ingredients and the finest spirits, our expert mixologists aim to satisfy the palates of both curious newcomers and connoisseurs alike!
- Sunset Bar – The aft location offers amazing wake views, creating the perfect backdrop for the vision of designer to the stars Nate Berkus. He has stepped into the role of designer himself to imagine one of the most anticipated venues on Celebrity Beyond! This was definitely my favorite bar and place to hang on the ship!
- Martini Bar – Located in the middle of all the action in the Grand Plaza, this is without a doubt the epicenter of the social scene on Beyond. Grab a seat at the bar underneath the glow of the newly designed LED chandelier, where you can meet new friends, catch up with old friends, and together be totally stunned by the gravity-defying skills of our flair bartenders. On the last night on the ship the bartenders perform a little show at 8 pm, don’t miss it! We couldn’t get enough of the White Cosmopolitan cocktails here!
- Magic Carpet – One of the best places to take in views from the water’s edge. The size of a tennis court, this incredible engineering feat is the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that travels up the side of the ship and reaches heights of 13 stories above sea level—literally. Some of the best views aboard are found here as you soar over the open ocean and indulge in a refreshing cocktail.
- Craft Social – A casually sophisticated pub atmosphere, where beer enthusiasts can unite to try over 40 beer selections and bar bites that are so satisfying you could make a meal of them. Wines and cocktails are also available, so come thirsty!
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
St. Maarten is a Caribbean island that is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant culture. The island is located in the northeastern Caribbean and is split between two countries: the Dutch side, known as Sint Maarten, and the French side, known as Saint-Martin.
One of the most popular attractions on the island is its beaches. St. Maarten is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, with crystal clear waters and white sandy shores. Some of the most popular beaches include Maho Beach, Orient Bay, and Simpson Bay Beach. Another popular attraction on the island is its nightlife. St. Maarten is known for its lively bars, clubs, and casinos, making it a popular destination for those looking to party. Some of the most popular nightlife spots include the Sunset Bar and Grill, Casino Royale, and the Red Piano.
For those looking for a more laid-back experience, St. Maarten also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. The island is home to a number of spas and wellness centers, where you can indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments.
The island also offers a variety of activities such as sailing, fishing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the island’s history and culture by visiting the St. Martin Museum, which offers a glimpse into the island’s past, or by visiting one of the many traditional Dutch or French markets. Finally, St. Maarten offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Caribbean fare to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy delicious meals at a variety of restaurants and cafes, including local favorites like The Greenhouse and Le Cottage.
Overall, St. Maarten offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a popular vacation destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, party the night away, or explore the island’s rich history, St. Maarten has something for everyone.
To Eat:
- Ocean Lounge at Holland House
- Le P’tit Bistro
- Yellow Sub
- La Playa Orient Bay
- La Villa
- The Palms
- The Tap & Still
- Le Cottage
- Restaurant L’Auberge
- La Terrasse Rooftop Restaurant
- Spiga
To Drink:
- Dutch Blonde Beach Bar
- Guavaberry Colombier Tradition
- La Part des Anges
- Bacchus
- Sunset Bar & Grill – Great spot to watch the planes land at Maho Beach!
- Sand Bar
To Do:
- Visit the beaches:
- Great Bay Beach
- Orient Beach – I’d recommend going La Playa here!
- Mullet Bay Beach
- Happy Bay Beach
- Maho Beach
- Le Gallion
- Go Wild Guava Berry Liquor Tasting
- Shop in the town of Marigot
- Visit the Loterie Farm
- Go on a hike!
- Visit the St. Maarten Museum
- Sail on a Catamaran!
- Watch airplanes land at Maho Beach!
- Go Ziplining
- Snorkel & scuba dive
- Visit the Butterfly Farm
- Go Gambling – there are 12 casinos in Phillipsburg!
- Visit Pinel Island
- Soak in the views from Rotary Lookout Point
St.Thomas
St. Thomas is one of the three main islands that make up the US Virgin Islands, and it is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty and culture of the Caribbean. The island is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical landscape, and vibrant local culture. One of the main draws of St. Thomas is its beaches. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Magens Bay, Coki Beach, and Sapphire Beach. These beaches offer crystal clear waters and white sandy shores, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Another popular attraction on the island is its historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore the island’s history and culture by visiting the Blackbeard’s Castle, a 17th-century Danish fortress, or the Fort Christian, a historic fort that dates back to 1672. The island also has many museums, like the Virgin Islands State Museum, where you can learn more about the island’s past and heritage. Shopping is another favorite activity of visitors to St. Thomas. The island has many boutiques, markets, and shops that offer a wide variety of items, from traditional Caribbean crafts to designer clothing. Visitors can also find local products such as rum, spices, and handmade jewelry.
The island also offers a variety of water sports activities such as scuba diving, kayaking, and jet skiing. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby island of St. John, where you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and national park. St. Thomas offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Caribbean fare to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy delicious meals at a variety of restaurants and cafes, including local favorites like Havana Blue and Banana Tree Grill.
Overall, St. Thomas is a beautiful and vibrant island that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the island’s rich history, or indulge in some shopping and dining, St. Thomas has something for everyone.
To Eat:
- Prime (at Paradise Point)
- Blue 11
- Buddah Sushi
- Mafolie
- Lime Out (on St. John’s)
- Old Stone Farmhouse
- Alloro (at Ritz Carlton)
- The Twisted Cork Cafe
- The Easterly
- Duffy’s Love Shack
To Drink:
To Do:
- Visit the beaches:
- Magen’s Bay
- Sapphire Beach
- Coki Point Beach
- Secret Harbour
- Brewer’s Bay
- Honeymoon Beach (one of my favorites!)
- Go Stand-up Paddleboarding
- Snorkle with the turtles at Flat Cay!
- Rent a boat and sail!
- Go kayaking
- Scuba dive!
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Puerto Plata, located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty and culture of the Caribbean. The city is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical landscape, and vibrant local culture. One of the main draws of Puerto Plata is its beaches. The city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Playa Dorada, Long Beach, and Sosua Beach. These beaches offer crystal clear waters and white sandy shores, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Another popular attraction in Puerto Plata is its historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore the city’s history and culture by visiting the Amber Museum, which showcases the region’s rich deposits of amber, or the Fort of San Felipe, a 16th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. The city also has the Amber Coast Cable Car, that takes you to the top of Isabel de Torres mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the ocean.
Puerto Plata also offers a variety of activities such as water sports, horseback riding, and ziplining. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby Damajagua waterfall, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and take a refreshing swim. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Caribbean fare to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy delicious meals at a variety of restaurants and cafes, including local favorites like El Meson and El Conuco.
Overall, Puerto Plata is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the city’s rich history, or indulge in some adventure activities, Puerto Plata has something for everyone. The city is also known for its welcoming people, who will make you feel like home.
To Eat:
- Casa Colonial
- Le Papillon
- Bliss Restaurant Lounge Bar & Pool
- Ristorante Passatore
- Le Petit Francois
- Casa 40
- Lucia
- Restaurant Casa Veintiuno
To Drink:
To Do:
- Visit the beaches:
- Bavaro Beach
- Macao Beach
- Playa Bonita
- Playa Dorada
- Sosua Beach
- Bahia de las Aguilas
- Venture to Paradise Island
- Snorkle in a coral nursery
- Monkeyland safari tour
- Rent a private catamaran
- Half-day cultural tour
- Waterfall excursion at Damajagua waterfalls
Overall, cruising on the Celebrity Beyond ship is an experience that combines luxury, comfort & adventure! Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or explore new places and cultures, the Celebrity Beyond has something for everyone. With its modern design, spacious staterooms, and wide range of amenities and activities, the Celebrity Beyond is the perfect choice for your next vacation! Have you been on a cruise before? Let me know if you already have and where you sailed to!
Stay Risky,
– John
