Celebrity Equinox exterior.

Celebrity Equinox exterior.

 Celebrity Equinox galleria tasting.

Celebrity Equinox galleria tasting.

 Celebrity Equinox Silk Harvest restaurant.

Celebrity Equinox Silk Harvest restaurant.

The Celebrity Equinox is the second ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice class. The ship was constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, and underwent sea trials and its final outfitting in the Netherlands.

Production of steel for the ship commenced in September 2007 and the keel-laying ceremony took place in August 2008. The ship was launched in May 2009 and delivered to the operator, Celebrity Cruises, in July 2009. The ship embarked on its maiden voyage on 31 July 2009.

Construction and tests

The ship was constructed in blocks and a total of 72 blocks were put in place. The weight of the first block was 550t, and its length, breadth and height are 16m, 63.80m and 8m respectively. It was put in place using an 800t crane.

The Celebrity Equinox left Meyer Werft’s covered building dock II in June after completing a series of tests and engine trials. The ship was moved to the harbour, where more tests were performed. Remaining work was completed while the Equinox was berthed, including the mounting of the ship’s two funnels.

The ship features environmentally friendly elements, including an optimised hull design and efficient underwater coating, which enable it to consume less fuel. An energy-saving lighting system and a photovoltaic system are other energy-efficient components that help in saving 30% of the total energy compared to other similar types of ships.

Technical specifications

“The 122,000t ship can accommodate more than 2,850 passengers.”

The 122,000t ship can accommodate more than 2,850 passengers. It has an overall length of 1,033ft and can operate at a cruise speed of 24kt, powered by four Wartsila 16V46 common-rail engines with a total output of 62,400kW and three CT 300 bow thrusters with controllable pitch propellers. The propulsion monitoring system was provided by ABB.

Cabins

Of the total 1,426 cabins, 1,286 are outside and the remaining 140 are inside. About 90% of the outside cabins have a private balcony. There are 26 cabins furnished for disabled passengers. Cabin amenities include colour TV sets, phones, safes, fridges, individual temperature control units, internet connections, hairdryers and private bathrooms.

Amenities

The Equinox features the same contemporary design as its sister ship, the Celebrity Solstice, and offers a clustered setup that allows for easy navigation and passenger flow.

“The ship features environmentally friendly elements, including an optimised hull design and efficient underwater coating, which enable it to consume less fuel.”

Notable on board features include the Lawn Club, a dedicated area on the top deck of the ship that features real grass where passengers can play croquet or golf; and the Hot Glass Show, a dedicated glassblowing studio with demonstrations by the Corning Museum of Glass.

The Celebrity Equinox has large, standard staterooms, 85% of which are outfitted with verandas. The ship also offers accommodation designed for spa enthusiasts: the Aqua class staterooms allow guests unlimited access to the Aqua Spa relaxation room and aromatherapy and steam room.

Entertainment includes the Quasar nightclub, live musical performances and shows, and move screenings.

Dining

The Equinox’s ten dining options include fine dining at the Murano restaurant and the Tuscan Grille steakhouse, while other outlets serve a range of cuisine from French to Asian-fusion. Wine enthusiasts can also take part in wine-tasting sessions.