A long-running experiment in green roofs is coming to an end. Like a growing A-list of Hollywood celebrities who have ripped out real grass and gone to synthetic lawns around their homes, Celebrity Cruises is phasing out the half-acre lawns on upper decks of its Solstice Class ships in favor of high-tech artificial turf.
It’s part of Celebrity’s $250-million Redesign, Reignite and Renew program for its four Solstice-class ships.
When first introduced on Celebrity Solstice 17 years ago, a growing green roof on upper decks was an innovative attraction. But even then, there were skeptics. It requires so much care, why not just use artificial turf was a common question.
“We believe in doing things real, not artificial,” Richard Fain, then-CEO of Celebrity’s parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, explained during the planning for the ship. Fain is still an inspiration for change at Royal Caribbean, having just stepped back from chairman, he is still a director of the cruise group.
The Lawn Club designed as a relaxation area for sunbathing, picnics and golf made it a you’ve’ got to see this attraction for the ships. But the grass needs careful tending by a full-time groundskeeper along with an elaborate irrigation and drainage system. All four of the Solstice Class have their own top deck lawns and thousands of guests over the years have experienced them.
However, expectations have changed and guest feedback suggests that guests want more to do on deck. “Guests told us they wanted more dynamic, multifunctional spaces that offer both relaxation and engagement,” said Katina Athanasiou, Celebrity’s senior vice-president of sales and services for the Americas.
So as a part of a $ 250-million renovation to the four ships in the Solstice Class, Celebrity is replacing grass with high-tech turf and adding a string of new amenities for the upper deck space that will be rechristened Sunset Park.
There will also be more private cabanas, an upgraded bar and a new specialty dining venue. “While we’re still finalizing the menu at Sunset Park, guests can expect globally inspired dishes, fresh ingredients and artful presentation all served in a relaxed, open-air setting,” Athanasiou said.
Daily games, movie viewings and live concerts at Sunset Park will be free, Athanasiou said. The private cabanas, which have dedicated attendants, will cost extra, as will the food and drinks.
Also departing are the long-running upper deck glassblowing studios run in a partnership with the Corning Museum of Glass, which offered classes at extra costs.
Celebrity Solstice is the first to receive the makeover, due for completion in March, 2026.
Story by Wallace Immen, The Cruisington Times
