In October 2025, the Celebrity Solstice from the US cruise line Celebrity Cruises will sail from Honolulu to Sydney. The journey includes several stops in French Polynesia and New Zealand. Currently, the balcony cabin merely costs €1,816 (~US$2,101) per person. Furthermore, you’ll get US$200 (~€173) per cabin credited for onboard expenses.
The prices include all meals in the main and buffet restaurants, as well as coffee, water, and tea during main meals. Additionally, room service is complimentary between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
The cruise is not available for solo travellers. Families of three, however, can book a balcony cabin for €1,686 (~US$1,950) per person. Not exactly huge savings considering that you’re all sharing one cabin, but it’s cheaper than having to book for four passengers to get two cabins.
Gratuities are not automatically added to your onboard account at Celebrity Cruises. However, you still have the option to reward good service as you see fit. The amount of the tip is entirely at your discretion.
The Route
Your journey begins in Honolulu, the capital of the state of Hawaii. With over a million residents, Honolulu is also the largest city between America and Asia. After leaving the harbour, you’ll spend five relaxing days at sea before the ship reaches French Polynesia. The first port is the capital Pepeete, where the ship will stay for 18 hours. After a day in Raiatea, you’ll reach Moorea, an island with several hotels and restaurants, where you can also go diving to explore the underwater world.
On the way to New Zealand, the international date line will be crossed. In New Zealand, you’ll visit Tauranga, Auckland (the largest city, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea), and the Bay of Islands. The cruise ends after 19 nights in the Australian metropolis of Sydney.
Here’s the detailed itinerary:
- October 2: Honolulu (departs at 19:00)
- October 3 – 7: 5 days at sea
- October 8: Papeete, Tahiti (arrives at 8:00)
- October 9: Papeete, Tahiti (departs at 2:00)
- October 10: Raiatea, French Polynesia (10:00 – 22:00)
- October 11: Moorea, French Polynesia (7:00 – 20:00)
- October 12 – 13: 2 days at sea
- October 14: International Date Line
- October 15 – 17: 3 days at sea
- October 18: Tauranga, New Zealand (10:45 – 18:00)
- October 19: Auckland, New Zealand (7:00 – 18:30)
- October 20: Bay of Islands, New Zealand (7:00 – 17:00)
- October 21 – 22: 2 days at sea
- October 22: Sydney (arrives at 6:30)
The Ship
Celebrity Solstice is one of Celebrity Cruises’ older ships, launched in 2008, but it still has a loyal following thanks to its tasteful design and comfortable size.
Recent reviews have been mixed: many passengers still appreciate the friendly service and calm atmosphere, but others note that the ship is overdue for refurbishment, with signs of wear in the cabins and public spaces.
Celebrity Solstice probably isn’t the best fit if you want the newest tech or the most elaborate entertainment at sea. But if you’re after a quieter cruise with a touch of style and a well-designed layout, it still holds its own, especially on itineraries where the destinations are the main draw.
Flights
Flights from Europe to Hawaii are not cheap. Currently, you’d pay €816 for WestJet flights from Dublin with luggage included. Luckily, the flights back from Sydney are far cheaper. You can fly with Scoot (including luggage) to either Athens for A$639 (~€363) or Vienna for A$659 (~€374).
Feel free to check out the prices from/to your city using our search form:
Cover Picture: © Celebrity Cruises®, Inc.