Celebrity Ascent Concierge Class Review: Perks & Accessibility Tips

If you’re considering sailing on Celebrity Ascent and wondering if the Concierge Class is worth it, this Celebrity Ascent Concierge Class review has you covered. We’ll also share accessibility tips to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip.

As experienced cruisers with over 20 ocean voyages on major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, this is the first time that we upgraded to Concierge Class.  It is also our first experience on the Celebrity Ascent.

The ship is the latest in Celebrity’s fleet, promising a luxurious and innovative take on ocean cruising. Adding to the adventure, we traveled with my dad, who has mobility challenges. His perspective gave us fresh insights into accessibility on board.

Here’s what we discovered during our 7-day journey.

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What Makes Celebrity Ascent Stand Out?

Celebrity Ascent, the newest addition to Celebrity Cruises’ fleet, offers a range of accommodations and amenities.  The ship is beautifully decorated with unique artwork and sculptures.  The food is a step above the competition with a range of choices to suit most tastes.  The guests tend to be in their late 40’s and older.  There are some children, but they are not too noticeable. 

Celebrity offers a level of sophistication in a calm atmosphere.  You can be active or just relax and enjoy a book.  The entertainment is top of the line and the theater is packed every night. If you like to be pampered, the Spa is the place to go.  And of course, there is a fitness center to work off those extra calories.

Prior to the Start of the Trip – Celebrity Ascent Concierge Class

One of the best things about living near Naples, Florida is our proximity to cruise ports.  It is very easy to drive less than 2 hours across the state to the ports in Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Since my dad was staying with us, to escape the cold in the northeast, we decided to take him on a cruise.  We found openings on the Celebrity Ascent on the Concierge Class level.  This cruise departs from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.

Booking the Celebrity Cruise – How We Saved 20%

While planning our recent cruise on the Celebrity Ascent, we discovered an incredible perk that saved us over 20% on the cost – plus it gave us access to a better cabin!

Here’s what happened: My husband came across USAA Member Travel Privileges, a benefit offered to USAA members. Out of curiosity, we decided to get a quote from their travel group for the same cruise our travel agent had recommended. To our surprise, not only was the price significantly lower, but we were also able to upgrade our cabin to Concierge Class!

If you’re a USAA member, this is a travel resource worth checking out. The savings can be substantial, and you might even find yourself with an upgraded experience for less than you’d expect.

Practical Tip: Always compare quotes from multiple sources, including membership-based travel benefits, before making your final booking. A little research can lead to unexpected savings!

Pre-Boarding Experience on Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity encourages guests to download their app. You’ll use it for your boarding pass and to print luggage tags. We received a Concierge Class Check-In Reminder via text, instructing us to arrive during the earliest check-in window – exclusively for Concierge Class guests and Zenith Members. This allows time to enjoy the Welcome Aboard Concierge Class Lunch.

Even though our online check-in showed 1:00 PM, as Concierge Class guests, we had open arrival. A great perk!

Where is My Ship?

If you’re driving to the port, everyone in the vehicle must show ID at security. Large signs display each ship’s terminal – Celebrity Ascent is usually at Terminal 25 (Palm Path). Follow the roadway, and port officers will direct you to the drop-off area.

We unloaded our luggage and my dad’s rollator, then a luggage handler greeted us – be sure to tip them! My husband parked the car while we waited.

Where to Park at Port Everglades

After drop-off, parking is easy to access. The garage is about two blocks from the terminal, and you can walk there. It costs $20 per day. Off-site lots are available, but we skipped the shuttle hassle – especially with my dad’s rollator.

Celebrity Ascent Concierge Class Stateroom: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Is Concierge Class on Celebrity Ascent worth the extra cost? We’ll break down the perks – like priority boarding and exclusive lounge access – to help you decide if the upgrade justifies the price.

Celebrity Ascent – Check-In Process

With Concierge Class, we could check in anytime, skipping the assigned 1:00 PM slot. We arrived at 11:00 AM and boarded right away – no waiting.

My dad had his rollator, and Celebrity offered wheelchair service, but he preferred to walk part of the way. Security was quick, and a Celebrity agent checked us in using a tablet. From there, we walked onto the ship. The gangway is steep and bumpy, so caution is needed with a rollator.

Once onboard, we completed the muster check-in at our designated station, listed on the Celebrity app and SeaPass. Then, we headed straight to our stateroom, where a welcome letter outlined Concierge Class perks.

A private Concierge Class lunch in the Tuscan Restaurant (Deck 3) from 12:00 to 1:30 PM gave us a quiet, relaxed start – much better than the crowded OceanView Café!

Concierge Class Staterooms – Layout and Amenities

Although just 201 sq. ft., our stateroom on Deck 12 felt surprisingly spacious. The layout was efficient, with a sofa, desk and chair, small fridge, three-drawer bureau, outlets, ample closet space with plenty of hangers, and a safe. Luggage easily fit under the bed.

The bed, positioned near the Infinity Veranda, offered stunning ocean views. It came with four standard pillows plus decorative ones on the bed and sofa. A Concierge Class perk? Specialty pillow options:

• Body Pillow – Feather and down for full-body comfort, great for aches.
• Hypoallergenic Pillow – Down-like softness with extra support.
• Swedish Isotonic® Pillow – Adapts to body temperature for customized comfort.

Just ask your Stateroom Assistant, and they’ll take care of it!

Important Tip: Deck 12 is below the Resort Pool and Oceanview Café on Deck 14, so noise can be an issue. We heard pounding sounds at times, and during a DJ dance party, the base was noticeable for a couple of hours. Something to keep in mind!

Concierge Class Staterooms – Bathroom

By cruise standards, the bathroom felt spacious, with a good-size shower, sink, drawer, and shelving. A hair dryer is provided in the drawer, and there’s a dedicated outlet for use.

Concierge Class guests receive exclusive CO Bigelow amenities infused with lavender and peppermint:

• Shampoo – No. 4001
• Conditioner – No. 4002
• Body Wash – No. 4003
• Body Lotion – No. 4004
• Bar of Soap – No. 4005
• Vanity Kit
• Shower Cap

Though not a designated accessible stateroom, there was enough space to maneuver my dad’s rollator. The only challenge? The heavy stateroom door, which may be difficult for guests with mobility issues.

Benefits of a Concierge Class Stateroom

As a Concierge Class guest, you have access to a dedicated concierge team on Deck 3 (mid-ship) from 8 AM to 8 PM. You can also reach them by dialing 4999 from your stateroom, though I found visiting the desk more efficient. Your Stateroom Assistant is also highly responsive.

Concierge Class Perks

Amenities Provided:

• Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine – Delivered on request.
• Daily Delectable Delights – Small bites of meats, fish, veggies, bread, and sweets, delivered on the first full day between 3 – 3:30 PM. Since we don’t eat meat or shellfish, we received a fruit plate.
• Captain’s Club Points – Earn 5 points per night, contributing to loyalty status. Since we’ve cruised with Celebrity and Royal Caribbean before, we’ve reached Elite status.
• Plush Cotton Bathrobes & Towels
• Custom-Blended Bath Amenities – CO Bigelow products (detailed in the Bathroom section).
• Handheld Hair Dryer – Requires holding the button down to operate.
• Golf Umbrella & Binoculars – Useful for rainy days (like in St. Maarten) and sightseeing from the veranda.

Services Provided:

• Continental Breakfast Room Service
• Complimentary Shoeshine Service
• Private Departure Lounge – From 7 AM in the Normandie Restaurant (Deck 3).
• Complimentary Beach Towels
• Fresh Ice Upon Request

These perks add convenience and comfort, but whether they justify the upgrade depends on your travel style.

Laundry services are not included, but you can pay to have your clothes laundered, dry cleaned, or pressed. As Elite members in the loyalty program, we received complimentary laundry service for up to 30 items.

Infinity Veranda versus Traditional Balcony

On past cruises, we always had a traditional balcony, so this was our first time experiencing the Infinity Veranda. It felt more like a sunroom, with floor-to-ceiling glass that opened at the top with the push of a button (you must hold it until it reaches your desired position).

Two frosted folding doors separate the veranda from the stateroom, allowing natural light while maintaining privacy. If the window is open and the doors are folded back, the air conditioning shuts off – just like with a traditional balcony when the sliding door is left open.

At night, a powered blind covers the veranda window for privacy and darkness. The space includes two chairs and a table, offering beautiful views whether seated or lying in bed. Since we were on Deck 12, an extended overhang provided shade for part of the day – perfect for us since we prefer to avoid direct sun!

We felt the Infinity Veranda made the room feel more spacious. I enjoyed sitting there while my husband relaxed inside watching TV. One key difference? The window is soundproof -when closed, you won’t hear the ocean waves.

Accessibility on Celebrity Ascent: Our Experience

We were surprised by the number of guests using walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, and scooters on this cruise. While Celebrity offers wheelchair service for embarkation and disembarkation, you’ll need to bring your own mobility equipment for regular use.

Most public areas are easily accessible. In the dining rooms, staff assisted my dad into his seat and stored his rollator until he needed it. At the Oceanview Café, designated tables are available for guests with mobility issues, and staff help with meals and drinks.

The Theater was the biggest challenge. There’s a limited handicap section in the last row on Deck 4, so arriving 30 – 40 minutes early is necessary to secure a spot – not ideal while on vacation.

Be aware of raised areas and metal seams on the floors, which can catch wheels. Elevators can also be tricky, as they fill quickly, making it hard to get on in time. Thankfully, fellow passengers were often helpful.

Accessible Disembarkation: What to Expect

If you need wheelchair assistance to leave the ship on the last day, you must report to Fine Cut Steakhouse on Deck 5 at least 30 minutes before your assigned disembarkation time (which is provided two days prior). Upon arrival, staff will take your name and call you when a wheelchair assistant is available. A Celebrity crew member will escort you off the ship and to the terminal’s elevator area, where a local service takes over. From there, an aide will guide you through luggage pickup, immigration, and the pickup area, making the disembarkation process smooth and stress-free.

Dining and Entertainment – Celebrity Ascent

Eating, drinking and being entertained are the mainstays of cruising.  Food is always available somewhere on the ship, till 1:00am.  The Daily Planner, whether hard copy or via the App, lists all the onboard activities.

Where to Eat

The Celebrity Ascent offers four main restaurants, the Oceanview Café, and seven specialty dining venues (extra charge). Luminae and Blu are exclusive to The Retreat and Aqua Class guests. For a sweet treat, Scoops on Deck 14 serves ice cream in various flavors, including soft serve.

We had most dinners in the main restaurants and breakfast, and lunch at the Oceanview Café. As Elite members, we could also enjoy breakfast at The Grand Bistro, reserved for Elite, Elite Plus, and Zenith guests.

The Oceanview Café has an impressive selection of food. The bread and desserts were delicious – I ate more than I should have! They also serve Afternoon Tea (3:30 – 4:30 PM) with scones, jams, clotted cream, and tea sandwiches.

The Pizza station is tucked away at the back of Oceanview Café – I wish it were more central. Unfortunately, we didn’t like the pizza; it tasted like cardboard.

For lighter bites, Café al Bacio (Deck 4) offers complimentary sandwiches, cookies, and beautiful desserts. One thing is certain – you’ll never go hungry on this ship!

Is it Time for Dinner?

When booking, you choose between early, late, or anytime dining. Late seating (8:30 PM) was our only option, but on the first night, we had to dine in the Tuscan Restaurant at our assigned time. After that, we could eat in any of the four main restaurants between 5:15 – 9:00 PM without reservations.

We usually dined around 6:00 PM and were seated right away. The food was very good, and the staff was attentive. A special shoutout to Harvey and Reynald, who went above and beyond to get caramel sauce for my dad’s apple pie à la mode, even though it wasn’t on the menu!

A separate vegetarian menu is available – just ask.

Important Tip: Dinner attire is smart casual, with two chic evenings that are slightly dressier. Most guests kept it casual, so formal wear isn’t necessary – a great way to save space when packing!

Bars on the Celebrity Ascent

The Ascent features 12 bars throughout the ship. If you have a drink package, you’ll never be without a drink! Since we don’t drink enough to justify the cost, we opted to pay by the glass or attend the Captain’s Club Elite Cocktail Hour from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.

During Elite Happy Hour, we could get two drinks per hour, plus bottled water, at most bars and lounges – except for World Class Bar, Magic Carpet, Craft Social, The Theater, restaurants, mini-bar, and room service. A modified drink menu is available for Elite guests.

Elite is a loyalty level we earned through previous cruises, offering perks like these complimentary drinks.

Entertainment on the Celebrity Ascent

The Theater productions were incredible, with talented performers, stunning scenery, and cutting-edge technology. Shows run nightly at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM, and seats fill up quickly – so arrive early. If you need handicapped seating, be at the Deck 4 entrance 30 – 40 minutes before showtime.

Other entertainment venues include:

• The Club – Live music, Trivia, and Bingo.
• The Grand Plaza – Performances throughout the day and night (check the Daily Planner for schedules).
• Eden – Live music and relaxing ocean views.
• Resort Deck – A lively band always playing.

For activities, pickleball is set up at the Rooftop Garden, and the Tuscan Restaurant has board games and cards available from 9 AM to 4 PM. A small library is located on the upper level of Eden. And of course, the Casino is open for your gambling entertainment!

And finally, don’t miss the ship’s entertaining Captain, Dimitrios Kafetzis. He has a great sense of humor, often joking that everything good in the world comes from Greece and proudly declaring, “I am good!”

Excursions and Port Stops – Celebrity Ascent

This cruise visited Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas), and Philipsburg (St. Maarten). We didn’t book excursions but discovered that guests with mobility needs can email shorexaccess@celebrity.com before the cruise. The Shore Excursion Coordinator can suggest accessible tours based on your interests.

Disembarking at each port was smooth and efficient via the Deck 2 gangway, which is designed to accommodate all the passengers comfortably.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Our first stop was Taino Bay at Puerto Plata, docking at 7 AM with an all aboard at 2:30 PM.

We disembarked to explore, and a Celebrity crew member assisted my dad down the gangway with his rollator. While he walked part of the way, we ended up pushing him from the dock into the port. Be aware that expansion joints along the path can be tricky for mobility aids. Inside the port, cobblestone walkways made navigation difficult, so my dad took a break at the Margarita Bar while we browsed the shops.

Puerto Plata features a man-made beach area with a lazy river, hammocks, and bars, offering plenty of fun just steps from the ship.

Returning aboard, we were greeted with cold towels and water. The Celebrity team helped push my dad up the gangway in his rollator! Celebrity’s embarkation area is modern and spacious, making the process smooth and efficient.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Our second stop was Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, docking at Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal (Crown Bay Center) at 11:30 AM, with a departure at 6:30 PM.

Disembarkation on Deck 2 was smooth, and the walk into the port was easy. Crown Bay Center has a few shops, bars, and vendor stalls, but downtown is about three miles away. Taxis are available for trips to the beaches, Blackbeard’s Castle, the Ritz-Carlton, island tours, and downtown.

Having visited St. Thomas many times, we’ve often taken taxis into town for shopping and sightseeing.

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Our third stop was Philipsburg, St. Maarten, docking at Pointe Blanche from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The port area has many shops, jewelry stores, and bars, making it a convenient spot if you don’t want to venture into town. With four ships docked, it was a busy day.

To reach downtown Philipsburg, you can take a water taxi for $7 roundtrip. Keep an eye out for iguanas basking on the rocks near the dock.

Other options include shuttles to downtown, beaches, or the French side of the island, as well as car rentals. We once rented a van to explore on our own and had a great experience.

During this visit, we had a few rain showers, so packing a travel umbrella is a good idea!

Shopping on Board the Celebrity Ascent

The ship offers a variety of shops on Decks 4 and 5, including luxury brands like Bulgari and Cartier, duty-free shopping, and Effy Jewelers. You’ll also find island-style clothing, evening wear, handbags, and basic travel essentials.

Internet Services

The iLounge on Deck 4 offers tech assistance and sells a few Apple products, including AirPods and iPad Mini’s. It’s a busy spot, as many guests need internet help or upgrades.

We brought our Ryoko portable Wi-Fi and used it in port, adding $19.95 for up to 5GB of data – it worked great! We originally purchased it for our month-long Europe trip, including Bordeaux, France and a Viking River Cruise, and now we just add data when traveling outside the U.S.

FAQ’s: Celebrity Ascent Concierge Class Review

We have covered a lot so far, but you may have more questions that need to be answered.

Are we going to need to stake out chairs by the pool early to get a spot or will there be space regardless?

During my morning walks around the Resort deck, I saw plenty of towels on lounge chairs, but no people.  So, yes, you will need to stake out the chairs on sea days! 

We have an early flight – how can we get off the ship quickly?

If you have an early flight, notify Celebrity of your flight schedule in advance. The earliest disembarkation option, known as “Walk Off,” begins at 7:30 AM. However, be prepared – this is a popular choice, and from what I observed, a large portion of the ship lines up for it.

What decks to avoid on Celebrity Ascent?

We were on Deck 12 which is right below the Resort Pool and Oceanview Café.  We did experience noise from above us which was annoying at night.

Does Celebrity Ascent have a walking/running track? 

Yes! The track spans Decks 14 and 15, featuring an uphill climb over the Resort Pool before looping around Deck 15 and descending back down. Five laps equal one mile.

What is different about Celebrity Ascent?

One standout feature of the Celebrity Ascent is its Infinity Verandas. These unique stateroom balconies transform by opening the wall to create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, offering you unobstructed views and more space. This feature sets the Ascent apart from other cruise ships, enhancing the onboard experience. 

What is the average age of the Celebrity cruise passengers?

Most guests on the Celebrity Ascent were in their 50s and older, with some younger couples and families also onboard. During the holiday season, you can expect to see more children cruising with their families as well.

Final Thoughts: Celebrity Ascent Concierge Class Review: Perks & Accessibility Tips

While we had a fantastic cruise, we didn’t feel that Concierge Class justified the extra cost – typically 20% more than a standard stateroom. The rooms are the same, and while perks like priority boarding, afternoon snacks, a welcome bottle of wine, and attentive service were nice, they weren’t essential. The service throughout the ship was already excellent, so you don’t need to upgrade to enjoy a great experience.

If you’re looking to save, consider travel perks like USAA Member Travel Privileges. We thoroughly enjoyed our meals, entertainment, and onboard experience. Most importantly, my dad was able to comfortably navigate the ship with his rollator, allowing him to maintain his independence.

Have questions about Concierge Class or accessibility on Celebrity Ascent? Feel free to email us – we’d be happy to help! Also, please refer to our Travel Planning services if you would like assistance in planning a trip.

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