"Space: The Final Frontier." Wasn't that always the beginning of the original Star Trek? Fittingly, in this 50th anniversary year of Sputnik, a cruise line has taken the helm on a new development in the space race. But, no, they aren't taking reservations yet for cruises to astral bodies light years away, not yet.

Family Travel Forum attended a briefing recently to learn about the upcoming new space-Ship. Celebrity Cruise Line, a division of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is introducing the Celebrity Solstice which is over 1,000-feet long, weighs in at 122,000 tons, and, 90% of its over 1,400 staterooms will have outside views.

But it gets better. The ship's state-of-the-art technology provides each stateroom with a wireless Internet connection and digital flat screen televisions.

Space is a large component of the ship's design. The staterooms are averaging over 15% larger in the deluxe ocean view veranda cabins than those on previous Celebrity ships. Bathrooms will be roomier as well. Adjoining cabins will also be part of the mix, allowing families to open doors -- providing more space -- and close them for privacy.

Additional storage, crafted by Celebrity and design parter RTKL Associates, Inc. is also part of the new design. Beds are higher, allowing for storing all sorts of things, and neutral colors and pleasing textures make for a cozy atmosphere.

In addition, the ship's restaurants promise inventive menus with elegant service in a luxurious atmosphere, and the onboard spa will provide the entire gamut of body treatments.

Sailings will start on December 14, 2008 on a 7-day East Caribbean circuit from Ft. Lauderdale, and the Solstice will be the first of four vessels in the class. Fares for veranda staterooms will start at $1,099 per person, double occupancy.

For more information on the ship, visit www.celebritycruises.com . See what's new in space.....

by Ralph Spielman

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