Celebrity Equinox has long been one of Celebrity Cruises’ most beloved ships, offering a classic resort-at-sea experience with a grown-up vibe and strong food, service and itinerary choices.
If you are considering booking a sailing, understanding what Equinox is really like today after recent technical dry dock work, how it compares with newer Celebrity ships, and what to expect onboard will help you choose the right cruise and make the most of your time at sea.
This detailed review walks through cabins, dining, entertainment, service, ship condition, itineraries and practical tips so you can board feeling prepared, not surprised.
Ship Overview and Atmosphere
Celebrity Equinox is a Solstice-class ship, carrying just over 2,800 guests at double occupancy and appealing primarily to adults, couples and small groups who value good food, design and service more than waterslides and non-stop adrenaline.
You will find kids onboard, especially during school holidays, but the overall vibe is sophisticated and relaxed rather than raucous. Public spaces emphasize natural light, art and wine, with a strong sense of connection to the sea through large windows and outdoor venues.
Equinox entered service in 2009 and later went through Celebrity’s “Revolution” program, a modernization initiative that updated many cabins and public areas to a fresher, more contemporary look. Unlike sister ship Celebrity Silhouette, however, Equinox did not receive a fully completed Revolution.
Most standard staterooms feel up-to-date, while many suites retain older styling and finishes that some repeat guests describe as a bit tired. This mix of new and old is important to understand when deciding which category to book.
The ship went into a scheduled technical dry dock in spring 2024. This was not a top-to-bottom renovation, but Celebrity has confirmed it included routine mechanical work along with cosmetic touch-ups such as fresh exterior paint, new or refreshed carpeting and upholstery in selected public areas, and a refresh of the popular Sunset Bar.
Recent guests sailing in 2025 have generally reported that Equinox looks well cared for, with minimal obvious signs of age, particularly in public spaces.
If you are choosing between Equinox and Celebrity’s newer Edge-class ships such as Apex or Ascent, expect Equinox to feel more traditional and slightly quieter. You will not find an outdoor Magic Carpet platform or as many flashy design statements.
Instead, you get a classic layout with large sun decks, a proper forward-facing observation lounge and the much-loved Lawn Club with real grass on the top deck. Many longtime Celebrity fans still prefer this style for its open-air spaces and calmer ambience.
Staterooms and Suites
Equinox offers a wide range of accommodations, from standard Inside cabins to expansive suites in The Retreat. Most regular staterooms were refreshed as part of the earlier Revolution work, so you can expect a clean, contemporary look in veranda and oceanview categories: neutral tones, improved storage and updated soft furnishings. Bathrooms are compact but functional, and bed comfort typically earns solid marks from recent cruisers.
Balcony staterooms are the sweet spot for many guests, combining reasonable pricing with that essential private outdoor space. On Equinox, verandas tend to be a comfortable size, with enough room for two chairs and a small table.
If you enjoy spending time on your balcony, consider the orientation and itinerary when choosing your cabin; for example, port-side versus starboard can matter on certain scenic Mediterranean routes. Some guests note that balcony furniture can show its age before interior elements do, so do not expect the ultra-modern styling seen on the very latest ships.
Concierge Class and AquaClass cabins add a few extra perks without the full price jump to a suite. Concierge Class focuses on priority services, small in-room amenities and a slightly upgraded location.
AquaClass adds access to the spa-inspired Blu restaurant and extra wellness touches such as upgraded showerheads and aromatherapy amenities. AquaClass can be a strong choice if you prioritize quieter dining and healthy cuisine over square footage or butler service.
The suites on Equinox occupy a different tier entirely, with access to The Retreat’s exclusive lounge, sun deck and dining room. However, experienced cruisers repeatedly point out that while the suite experience in terms of service and venues is strong, some suite interiors on Equinox were not fully overhauled during the ship’s modernization.
As a result, finishes and furnishings in certain suite categories may feel older compared with the same categories on newer ships or on Silhouette, which underwent a more complete update. If you are paying for a high-end suite and interior styling matters to you, it is wise to look at very recent photos and reviews or work with a travel advisor who knows the fleet well.
Dining: Main Restaurants, Specialty Venues and What to Expect
Food remains one of Celebrity Equinox’s primary strengths. The main dining room offers a mix of rotating nightly menus and classic staples, with an emphasis on contemporary international cuisine and visually appealing plating.
Service is generally attentive, and the room itself is stylish without feeling stiff. While individual experiences vary, many recent passengers report consistent quality at dinner, with the occasional off night more likely due to personal taste than systemic shortcomings.
Oceanview Café, Equinox’s buffet, is open for breakfast, lunch and casual dinner. It offers a broad selection of global dishes, including made-to-order stations, salads, pasta, grilled meats and themed options that change daily.
This venue can feel busy during peak hours, especially on sea days and port mornings, but the layout provides a decent amount of seating both indoors and outdoors. Recent dry dock work did not fundamentally change the buffet, though you may notice refreshed carpeting and some updated furniture.
Where Equinox really shines is in its specialty dining. Tuscan Grille, the Italian steakhouse, serves hearty pastas, premium cuts and an expansive wine list, all with a sea-facing setting.
Murano focuses on more formal, French-inspired cuisine with tableside preparations and multi-course tasting menus suited to special occasions. Sushi on Five offers elevated Japanese specialties, from signature rolls to sashimi, and often feels less crowded than the larger venues. The popular Lawn Club Grill, adjacent to the top-deck grass lawn, offers an al fresco, grill-centric experience that can be memorable on warm evenings.
When it comes to dining packages, pay close attention to the fine print. Some guests have voiced frustration upon discovering that certain restaurants, particularly Tuscan Grille, may not be fully included in all versions of “unlimited” or multi-night specialty packages on specific sailings, or may carry surcharges for particular menu items.
Inclusions and exclusions can shift over time, so it is important to carefully review your package details during booking and again in your cruise planner before final payment. Doing so will help you avoid surprises and plan realistic expectations for where you will dine.
Bars, Lounges and Nightlife
Equinox caters strongly to travelers who enjoy good cocktails, wine and low-key nightlife. The centerpiece of the evening scene is the ship’s Martini Bar, located in the Grand Foyer.
Here you will find a lively atmosphere, performance-style bartending and an extensive list of handcrafted martinis and signature drinks. Seats fill quickly before and after dinner, particularly on sea days, but the standing space around the bar keeps the energy high even when every stool is taken.
Elsewhere, you can slip into quieter venues depending on your mood. The Sky Observation Lounge at the front of the ship offers panoramic views and a more relaxed vibe during the day, shifting into a music and dancing spot in the evenings.
Cellar Masters focuses on wine, typically with an excellent selection by the glass. Smaller bars scattered throughout the ship cater to poolside refreshment, pre-dinner aperitifs and after-dinner digestifs, so you are never far from a drink.
Celebrity’s beverage packages on Equinox run from more limited selections to premium tiers that include a wider range of brands and higher price ceilings. In recent years, some guests have observed that the classic or mid-tier packages cover fewer of the most popular cocktails and wines than in the past, leading to more frequent upcharges.
Beer and cocktail prices have also trended higher across much of the cruise industry. If you drink primarily house wine, standard beers and simple mixed drinks, a classic package may still work well. If you prefer craft cocktails, top-shelf spirits or more expensive wines by the glass, you may find better value in a premium package or by paying as you go.
Overall, nightlife on Equinox tends to be social but not wild. Live music is common in multiple venues, from acoustic sets to jazz and party bands. A late-night dance crowd often forms on sea days and around themed parties, but if you are looking for an ultra-high-energy club scene that runs into the early morning hours every night, you may find it more subdued than mega-ships aimed squarely at younger demographics.
Entertainment, Activities and Daytime Life Onboard
Celebrity Equinox offers a full program of daily activities, from poolside games and trivia to enrichment lectures and art auctions. The theater hosts production shows featuring singers, dancers and aerialists, along with guest performers such as comedians, tribute acts or instrumentalists.
Recent reviews describe the entertainment as generally enjoyable, though not always at the cutting edge in terms of staging compared with the very newest ships. That said, for many guests the combination of live music, destination talks and evening shows provides more than enough variety over a week or longer.
One unique highlight on Equinox is Hollywood Hot Glass, a working glassblowing studio where guests can watch demonstrations or, for an extra fee, create their own glass pieces under expert guidance.
This attraction has been phased out on some ships across the fleet, but as of mid 2025 passengers report that it is still operating on Equinox and remains a distinctive, hands-on experience you are unlikely to find elsewhere at sea. If this is important to you, consider booking an early session on a sea day as classes can sell out.
Daytime life onboard revolves around the pool decks, the spa and fitness center, and quiet corners throughout the ship for reading or working. The main pool area offers plenty of loungers along with hot tubs and a central pool bar. Adults seeking a calmer environment will gravitate to the Solarium, an indoor-outdoor adults-only pool area with a more spa-like atmosphere.
The fitness center is well equipped with cardio machines, free weights and group class spaces, and you can expect fee-based options such as yoga, cycling and personal training.
Equinox’s Lawn Club, with real grass underfoot, remains one of its signature features. This top-deck area hosts casual games, lounging and occasional special events, and it is a peaceful place to relax on sea days or during sail away. Combined with the refreshed Sunset Bar at the ship’s stern, it creates a substantial enclave of open-air space where you can truly feel you are at sea, not just in a floating resort.
Service, Ship Condition and Recent Dry Dock Updates
Recent guest reports from late 2024 and 2025 generally praise the service on Celebrity Equinox, highlighting friendly crew, efficient restaurant teams and responsive cabin stewards.
While staffing levels fluctuate across the industry, Equinox has largely maintained Celebrity’s reputation for professional hospitality, particularly in dining rooms and bars where many team members stay with the brand for years and build strong rapport with repeat guests.
In terms of physical condition, Equinox benefits from both its earlier Revolution updates and the 2024 technical dry dock. Celebrity has stated that the focus of that dry dock was essential mechanical work plus selective cosmetic refreshes, especially in high-traffic public spaces.
Passengers sailing in early and mid 2025 have reported that the ship looks well maintained, with minimal visible rust, clean public areas and updated soft furnishings in several venues. While no ship can look brand new forever, Equinox appears to have avoided many of the more glaring wear issues sometimes seen on older tonnage.
That said, expectations should match reality. Certain elements, particularly in some suites and older design choices, will not feel as cutting-edge as on the 2025-launched Celebrity Xcel or the Edge-class ships. Carpets and decor in some corridors and staterooms can feel more traditional, and balcony furniture may lag behind interior upgrades.
Longtime guests also note that not every planned element of the original Revolution program was completed on Equinox, especially in top-tier suites, which can create a contrast between the premium service of The Retreat and the more dated styling in certain accommodations.
From a practical standpoint, none of this should deter most travelers considering Equinox. For many, the combination of refreshed public spaces, solid maintenance and attentive crew results in an experience that feels comfortably upscale rather than ultra-modern.
As long as you understand that you are sailing a well-cared-for classic ship rather than a brand-new build, you are likely to appreciate the balance of quality and character Equinox offers.
Itineraries, Ports and Who Celebrity Equinox Is Best For
Celebrity Equinox typically splits her time between the Caribbean and Europe, with seasonal deployments that may vary year to year. The ship has offered a range of Caribbean itineraries from Florida, often featuring ports such as the ABC islands, Antigua and the Bahamas, as well as longer journeys that mix popular stops with more off-the-beaten-path destinations.
In Europe, Equinox has operated Mediterranean voyages of nine and ten nights, appealing to travelers who prefer a slightly longer, less rushed itinerary with a mix of marquee cities and smaller ports.
For the 2025 season, itinerary announcements place Equinox alongside newer Celebrity ships in the Mediterranean mix, which speaks to the line’s confidence in her ongoing appeal.
Longer sailings, including repositioning cruises and South America segments, appear in late 2026 and 2027 schedules, though some blocks of dates have briefly disappeared from sale as Celebrity manages dry dock windows and capacity. If you hold a future booking and notice sailings disappearing from public view, it does not automatically mean your cruise is canceled.
Sold-out voyages, schedule reshuffles or pending updates to deployment can all temporarily remove sailings from the main booking engine, so it is wise to check your reservation portal and communicate directly with Celebrity or your travel advisor if you have concerns.
Equinox is best suited to travelers who enjoy a premium experience without veering into ultra-luxury territory. Couples, adult families, friend groups and solo travelers looking for good food, refined spaces and destination-focused itineraries tend to be happiest on this ship.
While children are welcome and there is a kids’ program, there are no big water parks, go-kart tracks or large-scale amusement attractions, so families seeking non-stop kid-centric activities might be better served by lines that specialize more heavily in that demographic.
If you appreciate a quieter pool deck, strong wine and cocktail programs, a choice of quality specialty restaurants and a focus on ports and culture rather than theme-park-style thrills, Equinox aligns well with those priorities.
Conversely, if you want the absolute newest hardware, the most tech-forward cabins or the widest array of headline-grabbing attractions at sea, you may want to compare Equinox closely with Celebrity’s Edge-class ships and other lines’ newest vessels before making your final decision.
Planning Tips and What to Know Before You Sail
Planning ahead is the key to getting the most from your Celebrity Equinox cruise. Because the ship has a loyal following and features several relatively intimate specialty venues, popular dining times and limited-capacity experiences can sell out well in advance.
If the Chef’s Table, Lawn Club Grill or Hollywood Hot Glass are must-dos for you, secure reservations as early as your booking window allows, and be prepared to check again onboard for any additional slots that open up.
Excursions in sought-after ports, especially on Mediterranean itineraries, also tend to fill quickly. Booking through Celebrity offers the convenience of ship-operated tours and the reassurance that the vessel will wait for late-returning groups, but independent tours and private guides can often provide more tailored experiences.
If your preferred Celebrity excursion sells out pre-cruise, do not panic; additional inventory sometimes appears closer to sailing, and local operators are usually plentiful in major ports. Just be sure to vet any independent option carefully and allow generous buffers around all-aboard times.
When it comes to packages, take time to compare the math. Drink packages can be a good value for those who enjoy several alcoholic beverages per day, specialty coffees, bottled water and fresh juices. For lighter drinkers or those who prefer only a glass of wine with dinner, paying a la carte may cost less.
Similarly, specialty dining bundles can offer savings if you plan to visit multiple venues, but not every restaurant is always fully included or available every night, so confirm details for your particular sailing and consider your actual appetite for multi-course, rich meals over a week or more.
Finally, stay engaged with your reservation. Celebrity occasionally adjusts itineraries, refreshes entertainment lineups and tweaks onboard offerings based on feedback, seasonal factors and operational needs.
Checking your cruise planner regularly in the months leading up to departure will help you spot changes early, lock in desirable experiences and avoid disappointment once you are onboard. If you see anything that seems unclear or concerning, reaching out to an experienced travel advisor or Celebrity directly is far more effective than waiting until embarkation day to ask questions at the busy guest services desk.
The Takeaway
Celebrity Equinox occupies a sweet spot in Celebrity’s fleet: large enough to offer multiple dining choices, attractive lounges and robust entertainment, yet compact and classic enough to feel navigable and refined rather than overwhelming.
After a technical dry dock in 2024 and selective cosmetic updates, the ship presents well in 2025, particularly in public areas, and continues to deliver the hallmarks that have built Celebrity’s reputation: strong service, quality cuisine and thoughtfully designed spaces for adults to relax and socialize.
Equinox is not a brand-new ship, and it does not pretend to be. Some suites and design elements show their age compared with the gleaming hardware of the newest Edge-class vessels, and guests who expect every corner to look like a just-launched showroom may find minor cosmetic imperfections.
Beverage and dining package fine print has also become more important to read carefully, as inclusions and exclusions shift and some options that once felt generous now carry more upcharges.
Yet for many cruisers, especially those who value destination-rich itineraries, open-air deck space, a sophisticated atmosphere and attentive service over theatrical onboard thrills, Equinox remains a compelling choice. If you board with realistic expectations, plan your dining and activities in advance, and approach the voyage as a chance to slow down, savor good meals and enjoy long sea views from the Sunset Bar or Lawn Club, you are likely to disembark feeling that Celebrity Equinox still lives up to her reputation as one of the line’s most appealing ships.
FAQ
Q1: Has Celebrity Equinox been recently refurbished?
Equinox underwent a scheduled technical dry dock in spring 2024 that focused on essential mechanical work plus select cosmetic updates such as new carpet, refreshed upholstery in some public areas and a refresh of the Sunset Bar. It was not a full top-to-bottom renovation, but it built on earlier “Revolution” upgrades that had already modernized many staterooms and public venues.
Q2: What kind of crowd does Celebrity Equinox attract?
The ship primarily attracts adults, couples and friend groups who value good food, refined spaces and destination-focused itineraries. Families do sail, especially during school breaks, but there are fewer kid-focused attractions than on some mainstream lines, so the atmosphere generally feels calm and sophisticated rather than high-energy and family-centric.
Q3: Is Celebrity Equinox a good choice for families with children?
Equinox offers a youth program and has facilities for kids and teens, but it does not feature large water parks, go-karts or thrill rides. It is a better fit for well-traveled families who are happy with pools, organized activities and port exploration rather than constant high-intensity entertainment. If your children expect theme-park-level attractions, a different line may satisfy them more.
Q4: How does Equinox compare with Celebrity’s Edge-class ships?
Equinox feels more traditional and intimate compared with Edge-class ships like Apex or Ascent. You will not find the Magic Carpet or the same level of ultra-modern design, but you do get a classic layout with the Lawn Club, a spacious Solarium and a strong connection to the sea. Edge-class ships are flashier and more innovative, while Equinox offers a calmer, resort-style experience that many longtime Celebrity fans prefer.
Q5: Which dining venues are included and which cost extra?
The main dining room, Oceanview Café buffet, Mast Grill and standard room service offerings are included in your fare. Specialty venues such as Tuscan Grille, Murano, Sushi on Five and Lawn Club Grill carry additional charges, either a fixed cover or à la carte pricing. Some dining packages bundle multiple specialty meals at a discount, but not all venues or menu items are always included, so it is important to review the exact terms for your sailing.
Q6: Are drink packages on Equinox worth the cost?
Drink packages can be worthwhile if you routinely enjoy several alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, bottled water and soft drinks each day. The classic packages cover many standard options, but some guests find they now include fewer premium choices than in the past, leading to more upcharges. If you prefer higher-end cocktails or wines by the glass, a premium package or paying per drink may make more sense. Consider your actual habits and do the math before purchasing.
Q7: What kinds of entertainment and activities can I expect?
Equinox offers production shows in the main theater, live music throughout the ship, guest performers, enrichment lectures, trivia, art auctions and poolside games. A standout feature is Hollywood Hot Glass, a working glassblowing studio offering demonstrations and hands-on classes for an extra fee. The overall program emphasizes quality over spectacle, with a mix of cultural and lighthearted options rather than giant-scale, tech-heavy productions.
Q8: What itineraries does Celebrity Equinox usually sail?
Equinox typically offers Caribbean cruises during the winter and Mediterranean voyages during the warmer months, often in the nine to ten night range. Longer repositioning cruises and South America segments may appear in certain seasons. Itineraries can evolve year to year, so it is important to review current schedules for your travel dates, but you can generally expect a mix of marquee ports and some less commonly visited stops.
Q9: Is Celebrity Equinox a good option for first-time cruisers?
Yes, Equinox can be an excellent choice for first-time cruisers who want a premium experience without an overwhelming party atmosphere. The ship is large enough to offer variety but not so massive that it feels confusing to navigate. If you appreciate good food, comfortable surroundings and a relaxed pace, you are likely to find Equinox a welcoming introduction to cruising.
Q10: What should I book in advance before sailing on Equinox?
It is wise to reserve specialty dining, popular shore excursions, spa treatments and limited-capacity experiences such as Hollywood Hot Glass sessions as early as your planning window allows. These often sell out before embarkation, especially on sea days and in marquee ports. You should also review drink and dining package options, Wi-Fi plans and any onboard celebration packages in your cruise planner so you can lock in the best choices and pricing ahead of time.