Being a premium cruise traveler and having just experienced Celebrity’s Solstice, what is all the hype about stepping up to a luxury cruise, and are the finer things worth their asking price?

Silversea is known for their All-Inclusive program, which is comprised of Gourmet Meals, Fine Wines (25 Red / 25 White), Champagne, Spirits, and Bulgari Toiletries. However, when comparing caviar with lobster, I found there to be a major difference, yet insufficient data to substantiate the answer to my question: are the finer things really worth their asking price? I did some research and I compared the proverbial apples to oranges in order to give this question proper consideration. In my research, I compared the Silversea Wind’s 240 square foot ocean view Vista Suite with the new Celebrity Solstice’s 245 square foot Aqua Class Balcony Cabin.

Here are my findings:

Silversea Wind:                                   Celebrity Solstice: 
                         10-Night Mediterranean                                  
June 16, 2009                                        June 5, 2009 
$6,716.00 pp                                         $2,599.00 pp 

                         What You Get…                           
314 Passengers                               2,850 Passengers
Decks 4 & 5                                      Penthouse Deck
Sitting Area                                       Balcony
Unlimited Pommery Champagne       32” Flat Screen TV
Mini Bar Stocked Daily                       Pillow menu
Acqua Di Parma Bath Amenities        Shower stall & Bath Basen
Plush Robe & Choice of Pillow           Spa concierge
Personalized Stationary                    Exclusive use of Persian Garden
Marble Bath / Full Bath                      Specialty Restaurant BLU
Gratuities Included
                       Difference: $4,117.00 Per Person

Alright! We have a pretty BIG difference and it’s being substantiated by what seems to be what? Food? Well, not just food, Gourmet 5-Star Cuisine. Also, all your drinks, be it wine, spirits, champagne, and soda are included. A Full bath (Tub & Shower), premium amenities, pre-paid gratuities, and toiletries are included as well. Last but  not least, more personalized service due to the fact that there are significantly less passengers onboard. But, how important is this to the consumer during the current economy? Celebrity’s Solstice is an amazing vessel offering what they’re best known for, which is gourmet cuisine. Let’s be honest here, $4,100.00 worth of drinks is very unlikely. Also, what if the traveler is not a drinker and prefers water, tea, or soda? Will the traveler receive a concession for the unused spirits, wine, mini-bar, and champagne? Unlikely. There’s no doubt that there are several factors to consider when purchasing a luxury cruise, but if you are being a bit more conservative with your money these days, premium cruise lines offering a great alternative without compromising in service or cuisine. The question is, are you willing to pay for luxury and if so, why?