Celebrity Retreat: 12 Night Hong Kong, Japan & Vietnam Pre-Cruise Story

After a few delays (including COVID) we are booked on my birthday, graduation (and anniversary) present of a 12 NIght Hong Kong, Japan & Vietnam cruise!

We (rebooked) in 2022 & retain all the benefits of The Retreat before the 2024 changes.

Our cruise includes:

  • the premium beverage package
  • premium wifi (1 device pp)
  • specialty dining
  • gratuities
  • butler service
  • early embarkation
  • $1250 shipboard credit

Since booking, the cruise has undergone some changes, including an itinerary name change from "12 Night Northeast Asia Cruise."

We are booked in stateroom 6145 an Aqua Sky Suite, one of two with larger bathrooms (separate tub & shower) connected to the Penthouse Suite.

Since most of the cruise amenities were covered in our booking we decided to use the onboard credit towards the following excursions:

  • Day 1: Back Home Laundry Bag ($119.99 pp)
  • Day 2: Rabbit Hole Bourbon Tasting ($36.99 pp) -> Celebrity canceled on embarkment day. We were given 30% off if we booked another ship excursion.
  • Day 3: Independent Exploration: Saigon On Your Own ($53.99 pp)
  • Day 4: Destination Highlight: Nha Trang Countryside Biking ($203.99 pp) -> Celebrity canceled this in November 2024.
  • Day 5: FREE
  • Day 6: Destination Highlight: Walking Tour of Old Hong Kong ($58.99 pp) - > rebooked price dropped to $52.99 December 25, 2024
  • Day 7:
  • Day 8: Mixology 101 ($47.99 pp) - > price dropped to $36.99 December 2024 | Rebooked & moved to Day 2 from Day 10. Price dropped 5 days out to $26.99, rebooked, and moved to Day 8.
  • Day 9: Small Group: Taipei Lifestyle ($150.99 pp) -> price increased to $168.99 December 25, 2024
  • Day 10: FREE
  • Day 11: Small Group: Shochu Brewery & Tour ($151.99 pp) --> rebooked as the price dropped to $135.99 February 2025. Celebrity canceled on embarkment day. We were given 20% off if we booked another excursion.

We currently have a balance of $148.12 and I am unsure how to allocate it. Current options are:

  • Celebrity Plush Robe $40.99 pp ($34.99 December 25, 2024)
  • Celebrity Logo Slippers $8.99 pp ($7.99 December 25, 2024)
  • Cheese and Fruit Plate $28.99
  • Chocolate Strawberry Sensation $27.99
  • French Macarons $21.99