Anne Kalosh got a first peek at Celebrity Cruises’ next ship, Celebrity Solstice, as she nears completion in Germany’s Meyer Werft shipyard.  Reporting in Seatrade Insider News, Kalosh reports that one feature sure to please passengers is significantly larger staterooms and bathrooms.  “The bathrooms are 50% larger than those in Millennium-class accommodations and standard veranda staterooms are 15% larger at 210 sq. feet.”, she says.

When the 122,000-ton ships enters service Nov. 23, 2008 (three weeks ahead of schedule), Celebrity Solstice will boast “a sophisticated, spa-like quality.  The Lido Deck is an expanse of teak that will spout water at the entrance to the main pool, lined by cabanas and white-cushioned lounge chair and day beds,” she reports

According to Kalosh, “Among the stand-out public facilities are the two-deck high AquaSpa with its rotunda reception area; the dramatic Grand Foyer with its sweeping staircase and The Grand Epernay, a restaurant.

And, while Solstice will be 30% larger than the Millennium-class vessels, innovative design features, like solar panels, will make it one of the most energy efficient ships afloat.