Celebrity Unveils Retail Space Plans for Solstice

July 9, 2008 - PRLog -- Celebrity Cruises said its new Celebrity Solstice, set to debut this November, will offer guests the chance to purchase a 10-sided diamond cut for the first time, available exclusively on the ship. Named the Solstice Diamond, the patented gem's 86 facets create a visible, distinguishing star pattern even more sparkling than the familiar 58-facet brilliant-cut diamond. Sourced from conflict-free stones mined in Canada, the Solstice Diamond was created by U.K.-based Harding Brothers, which will manage the retail shops onboard. Mounted in hand-created settings and in varying sizes for rings, pendants and earrings, no two pieces will be alike. The diamonds will be available in Celebrity Solstice's "Boutique C," one of 18 shops spanning three decks and 6,500 square feet onboard the ship.

"Celebrity Solstice's boutique areas have been designed to reflect the stylish and authentic ambience our guests will find throughout the ship," said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity's vice president of hotel operations. "Each shop will have its own distinct look, feel and, in some cases, even aroma. It will be a phenomenal collection of sights, sounds, styles and scents."

In addition to the high-end Boutique C, Celebrity Solstice's retail venues include The Lawn Club Shop, offering golf-oriented merchandise, wine-related items and a casual, contemporary resort line designed by Bobby Chan, plus a "grass"-soled flip-flop sold exclusively on Celebrity Solstice; The Showcase, where guests can purchase creations such as those found at The Corning Museum of Glass, whose alliance with Celebrity led to the industry's first Hot Glass Show and Studio on Celebrity Solstice; The Solstice Shop, which will offer a variety of fashion-forward, private-label apparel, accessories and souvenirs; Exquisites, which will feature a vast array of necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets from new designers, as well as recognized, world-class brands such as Bellarri and H. Stern; and The Artisan Store, a one-of-a-kind jewelry and artifacts where guests can observe and interact with resident artists as they string pearls, carve cameos, and mount gemstones to suit each shopper's interests and preferences.

Another shopping venue will be Pieces of Time, which will feature such watch brands as Dior, Gucci, H. Stern and Tag Hauer. In The Collection, guests will find classic and contemporary purses of all styles, sizes, colors and textures, as well as belts, scarves, and other accessories. The Men's Store will feature casual yet sophisticated apparel for men from Newport Blue and Saltaire, as well as Celebrity's exclusive Blue Collection, among other brands. Moda will have offer chic women's fashions ranging from everyday, active wear to cocktail apparel to selections from leading designers such as Joseph Ribkoff, Celebrity's exclusive Blue Collection. Celebrity Solstice's Jasmine will focus on perfumes, cosmeceuticals and other skin care products.

At Adagio, guests can find a range of self-tanning products, scrubs, rubs and body butters. The venue also will present many of the world's most popular fragrances, along with new launches. Serendipity will feature an eclectic mix of merchandise that is constantly evolving, reflecting the unique character of each destination on the ship's itinerary. The selections will range from ethnic foods to apparel to accessories. The Sundialer will sell fashionable watches and sunglasses from a variety of designers. Glitz will feature trendy costume jewelry from established international brands as well as up-and-coming designers. Sol Y Mar will offer a vast array of designer sunglasses, suntan lotions, pool cover-ups and other beach apparel, and paperback books. Spirits & Such will offer not only premium liquors, but also bar and kitchen accessories, and tote bags to ease the process of carrying purchases home. The venue also will host wine and whisky tastings. Finally, Travel Made Easy is for guests who need additional luggage to take home. There, accessories, sunglasses, hats and beach blankets are sold, along with luggage, tote bags, and electronics. Celebrity Solstice's first revenue cruise will take place over Thanksgiving.

For more information please call Kenneth Chow, Accredited Cruise Counsellor (ACC) of Cruise Planners at 800-839-7135, kchow@cruiseplanners.com or http://www.nycvaluecruise.com from 9AM to 7PM EST Thursday to Monday.

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