The recent Celebrity APEX cruise through the breathtaking Norwegian Fjords and the Arctic offered an unforgettable experience for travelers lucky enough to embark on this journey.
Travel agents Dustin and Scott from My Lux Cruise organized seamless transportation from London to Southampton, where the adventure aboard the Celebrity APEX began.
Despite the rainy weather on the drive, spirits lifted once they neared Southampton, hinting at a promising voyage ahead.
Upon arrival at the ship, the crew’s warm welcome made passengers feel at home, especially those returning for another voyage on APEX.
Ultimately, check-in was a breeze, and within thirty minutes, guests were settled in their staterooms, ready to explore the luxury cruise ship.
Minor hiccups arose, as is customary with large corporations; missing hypoallergenic bedding was remedied swiftly by stateroom attendant Mylene, while connectivity issues with WiFi were also resolved thanks to Celebrity’s contract with Starlink.
As the ship prepared for departure, a lively sailaway party in the Iconic suite hosted by Dustin and Scott provided a pleasant opportunity for reunion among friends, including Ewan and Barry, recent honeymooners who reminisced about their last cruise together ten years prior.
With luggage unpacked, guests participated in the LGBTQIA+ happy hour at the EDEN bar, connecting over drinks and camaraderie.
Dinner followed at Normandie restaurant, with Rob and Carlos taking charge of the evening’s itinerary.
The excitement was palpable as the first day came to a close, highlighted by unexpected encounters with the ship’s Captain, who recalled a previous interview conducted during a transatlantic cruise in 2022.
Day 2 greeted travelers with a bright, sunny morning as they ventured to Brugge, Belgium, their first port of call.
The city, reminiscent of the 1970s, charmed passengers as they navigated through its historic streets with a knowledgeable guide, enjoying local delicacies like Belgian waffles and fries.
After returning to the ship, the evening proceeded with more socializing, including the established LGBTQIA+ happy hour, followed by entertainment from singer Tabitha at the theater, who paid tribute to iconic female songwriters.
Day 3 dawned with excitement as guests anticipated their first stop in Norway, Flam, where passengers enjoyed a scenic train ride to Myrdal amidst stunning landscapes and cascading waterfalls.
The clear weather held up nicely until their return to the ship, adding to the joy of the day.
Later, another sailaway party brought together senior crew members for mingling and memories, before a relaxed dinner in Normandie.
The ensuing days at sea offered tranquility and leisure, with opportunities for gym sessions, social hours, and evening entertainment, signaling a laid-back rhythm among cruisers.
The crossing into the Arctic Circle added a sense of adventure, marked by a celebratory pool party hosted by the Captain.
Activities on Day 6 included a visit to Tromso, often referred to as the Arctic’s capital.
After overcoming long lines for shuttle buses, guests explored the town, its history, and even quirky locations like The Bastard Bar.
The evening’s highlight was Caravan, a dynamic production featuring the EDEN cast, including Ukrainian aerialists Kyrylo and Yaroslav, captivating the audience with their talent.
The next day in Honningsvag brought warm weather—unexpectedly warm for Norway—as guests toured the North Cape, marveling at breathtaking views and informative exhibits about the region’s history.
The sun, never fully setting, illuminated the surroundings as travelers enjoyed another evening of relaxation and entertainment aboard the ship.
On Day 8, cruising around the Arctic Circle once again provided a chance for leisurely activities, highlighted by LGBTQIA+ social gatherings and nightly shows that showcased the cruise’s remarkable talent.
Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage site, welcomed passengers on Day 9, with incredible waterfalls making for an utterly picturesque experience.
Guests engaged in excursions high up in the mountains and cherished moments spent exploring this beautiful area.
As emotions swayed between joy and concern for world events, camaraderie among travelers solidified the belief in living their best lives, regardless of outside turmoil.
The final days included stops in Alesund during a record heatwave, where visitors participated in a vibrant PRIDE parade and festival celebrating love and acceptance.
Each day presented a new opportunity for connection, enjoyment, and indulgence within the luxurious confines of the Celebrity APEX.
As the cruise drew to a close, guests left with cherished memories of breathtaking scenery, vibrant festivities, and a deepened sense of community, eager to share their experiences with others upon returning home.
image source from：washingtonblade
