7-Day Celebrity Cruise to the French & Italian Riviera (Aboard the Glorious Ascent)

This wasn’t just a vacation.
It was a living, dancing, glowing Mediterranean dream — across Spain, France, and Italy aboard the newest gem in the Celebrity fleet: the Ascent. From the beaches of Barcelona to the cobbled streets of Cannes, from Roman ruins to sunset cove swims in Portofino, it was magic from start to finish.

📍 Day 1: Embarkation in Barcelona — Easy, Breezy, Beautiful

We started our journey in Barcelona, where the energy is electric and the nights never seem to end. Picture this: warm sand underfoot, music echoing from beachfront cafés, and people dancing in the waves like it’s a local tradition.

We arrived a couple of days early to explore La Rambla, soak in Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Família, and sip sangria in the Gothic Quarter. By embarkation day, we were fully in vacation mode.

And then we boarded the Ascent — the moment we stepped on, everything felt elevated.

Embarkation was quick, smooth, and totally stress-free. The staff greeted us with champagne and smiles, setting the tone for what would be the most unforgettable week of our lives.

Travel Tip: Stay hydrated with Liquid I.V. Hydration Packets — these saved me more than once.

🛳️ About the Celebrity Ascent: Floating Luxury Redefined

Celebrity Ascent is part of the revolutionary Edge Series and it’s more than just a mode of travel. It’s a destination in itself.

• The Magic Carpet®: a cantilevered floating platform
• Infinite Veranda staterooms: open your entire room to the ocean
• Eden: a surreal performance and dining experience
• The Retreat®: a ship-within-a-ship luxury suite experience

🎉 Life Aboard the Ascent — Class, Comfort & Culture

Every day had something new to explore. We loved:

• The Grand Plaza — music and martinis
• Fine Cut Steakhouse & Le Voyage
• Rooftop Garden — greenery and cocktails

Style Shoutout: Valanch Polo Shirt — breathable and cruise-approved.

🇫🇷 Day 2: Cannes, France — Style, Sunshine & Street Chic

Chic locals, cobblestone charm, and a seaside café vibe. A woman in heels on a scooter gave us our favorite “only in France” moment.

🇮🇹 Day 3: Portofino — Roman Coves & Riviera Romance

We swam in a cove where Roman soldiers bathed. Portofino is as dreamy as it gets. Gelato and sunset walks made it unforgettable.

🚴 Day 4: La Spezia — Espresso & Bike Rides

Charming and bike-friendly. Espresso, focaccia, and scenic detours. La Spezia was the chill vibe we didn’t know we needed.

🇮🇹 Day 5: Rome — Fast, Loud, Beautiful

Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain. One whirlwind bus tour packed with history and pizza.

Outfit Win: Coofandy shirt + shorts — ideal for sightseeing in style.

🌋 Day 6: Naples & Pompeii — Ashes and Awe

Pompeii stunned us. 1500 years buried, still so human. Naples brought the pastry heat with sfogliatella.

🌊 Day 7: Sea Day Shenanigans — Dancing & Goodbyes

Pool lounging, dance classes, aerial shows, karaoke, and new friends. It was perfect.

✈️ Back to Barcelona — 12-Hour Flight, 1,000 Memories

We ended where we began — with sunshine, espresso, and hearts full of gratitude. California never felt farther away.

🧳 Positive Phil’s Cruise Essentials

Final Thoughts

Some vacations fade. Others stay with you forever. The Ascent gave us memories we’ll hold onto for a lifetime. Dance under the stars. Compliment strangers. Swim in ancient waters. That’s the magic of the Med.

— Positive Phil