A Family Voyage with a Toddler: Sailing from Vancouver to Los Angeles on the Celebrity Summit

Image 1: Touring Vancouver on the hop-on, hop-off bus ; Image 2: Toddler enjoying dinner at Oceanview Cafe

Smooth embarkation in Vancouver

Our journey began in Vancouver, a city known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant downtown scene. If you’re planning to sail from here, it’s worth arriving a day or two early to soak in what the city has to offer. Conveniently, the Pan Pacific Hotel is attached to the cruise terminal, offering the perfect spot to stay pre-cruise. From there, you can easily explore Vancouver’s highlights, from Stanley Park to Granville Island, before making your way to the ship. Right at the port, get on the hop-on hop-off buss to easily access the whole city all day long!

Pro -tip: For travelers with Premium Access: while it offers plenty of perks onboard, it doesn’t grant you priority embarkation in Vancouver. However, the embarkation process was incredibly smooth and efficient, and we were on board in no time.

Pro-tip: Celebrity does not punch holes in stateroom cards for lanyard use. Make sure to have a plastic badge holder if you plan on using a lanyard

Pro-tip: I prefer these for the luggage tags. It is a safer option than just stapling the paper around the handle.

First impressions of the Celebrity Summit: A charming, intimate vessel

The Celebrity Summit is one of the smaller ships in Celebrity’s fleet, but it does not lack in style or sophistication. On this ship, guests get a taste of classic cruising with a modern twist. As soon as we stepped aboard, the ship’s blend of luxury and timeless design welcomed us. The Summit may be a bit older, but it has been beautifully maintained and recently updated, with its public areas offering a sleek, inviting atmosphere.

One of the perks of being on a smaller ship like the Summit is the close-knit feel. The crew truly stands out — they went out of their way to ensure we felt at home, often stopping to greet my daughter and making her part of the journey. We made sure we knew the working hours of our favorite staff and made sure to visit them often. From waitstaff to room attendants to adorned officers, their warmth and attentiveness made the experience even more special.

Pro-tip: The purser at guest services can exchange currency and give change, if she has it.

Familyfriendly dining: A feast for all ages

Traveling with a toddler can sometimes make dining tricky, but the Celebrity Summit made it feel effortless. The buffet each night was a highlight, offering a wide variety of dishes that were not only delicious but also suitable for younger travelers. From freshly made stir-fries to customizable meals, the food selection was abundant, and I always found something my daughter enjoyed. And, every time I was there, an officer offered to help hold my plates while I maneuvered the stroller, a wonderful added touch.

For a more refined experience, the main dining room didn’t disappoint. Those who have booked Premium Access or Concierge Level rooms will enjoy an embarkation lunch here, where the service and food quality truly shine. Though the menu was limited for this meal, every dish was expertly prepared. One standout meal was the perfectly roasted salmon, paired with sautéed spinach and potatoes — a fine-dining experience at sea that never compromised on flavor.

Our cozy and well-appointed cabin: Stateroom 2067

Our home for the voyage was Stateroom 2067, an inside cabin that, despite its modest size, was cleverly designed to maximize both comfort and storage. For families traveling with little ones, the thoughtful layout was a real advantage. To accommodate the crib, we requested our room steward to separate the beds, a simple change that made a significant difference in creating extra space for our daughter’s pack-and-play. With plenty of storage — including a closet spacious enough to tuck away a car seat — the cabin was more than adequate for our needs.

Pro tip: if you’re sailing with a baby or toddler, asking the room steward to separate the beds is a game-changer for maximizing space in a small cabin.

Entertainment for all ages: exploring the ship

The Celebrity Summit offers a range of entertainment and activities, perfect for families and couples, and singles alike. A great place to relax was the Solarium on Deck 10, a serene, adults-only haven with a climate-controlled pool. Though I was not able to enjoy its luxury, it seemed like a go-to place when needing a peaceful break. For families, the outdoor pool area on Deck 10 provided plenty of opportunities for fun. It had loungers, hot tubs and lively entertainment, such as games and dance parties. There’s something wonderful about the atmosphere in this sun-soaked hub. It's a mix of relaxation and excitement as fellow passengers soak up the sunshine or join in on poolside games.

Parents will appreciate the Kids Club on Deck 11, thoughtfully designed with specific toddler-friendly play times and soft play areas, making it easy to keep little ones entertained. The times seemed limited for the older kids. The ones I saw coming and going definitely enjoyed their stay.

Pro-tip: As of December 2023, Celebrity Cruises DOES NOT accommodate in-room babysitting as they have in the past.

And for those looking for a little adult time, the Martini Bar on Deck Four is a must-visit. With its ice-lined bar and talented flair bartenders, it’s a lively spot to grab a drink.

Pro-tip: While the seas were occasionally rough, my trusty EmeTerm Explore, which attaches to my Apple Watch band, kept any seasickness at bay. If you’re prone to motion sickness, I highly recommend giving it a try.

Musicians and singers can be enjoyed at Cellar Masters, the Rendezvous Lounge, the Martini Bar, at the pool and in the Sky Lounge. Be sure to check the Celebrity app or the Celebrity Today program to see when to visit those venues.

The Ports: Victoria, San Francisco and beyond

Victoria, British Columbia, our first stop, provided a charming contrast to the bustling city of Vancouver. Known for its manicured gardens and historic landmarks, it was the perfect place to spend a relaxing day before sailing south. Check out my walking tour of Victoria here

San Francisco, however, was the true highlight of the voyage. With an overnight stay, we had plenty of time to explore the city. A quick two-block walk from the port brought us to Fisherman’s Wharf, where the iconic sights of San Francisco were within easy reach. We couldn’t resist a stop at Buena Vista Café for their famous Irish coffee and a hearty bowl of clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl — perfect fuel for a day of sightseeing.

One of the most memorable moments of the entire trip was sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge while standing on the helipad, which captain opened special for this sailing, a breathtaking experience made even more special by the music playing in the background and photographers capturing the moment.

Unwinding at sea: the perfect end to each day

Evenings aboard the Celebrity Summit were just as enjoyable as the daytime activities. One of our favorite spots to unwind was the Sunset Bar on Deck 10, just outside the Oceanview Café. Whether we were sipping cocktails or simply watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange over the Pacific, it was the perfect way to wind down after a day of adventure.

There were plenty of shows and different types of music available all around the ship. Each night, we could dance along to a few songs before getting the toddler to bed.

Pro Tip: For those looking to indulge in a special meal, Le Petit Chef is a fantastic option. This interactive dining experience combines animation with cuisine. Animated characters “cook” your meal right on the plate before the actual dish is served. It was a highlight not only for my daughter but for all of us, adding a fun and whimsical touch to our dining experience.

Final reflections: a cruise to remember

Traveling on the Celebrity Summit with my 1-year-old daughter was an incredibly rewarding experience. The ship’s smaller size made it easy to navigate with a stroller, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable throughout. From the attentive crew to the delicious food and family-friendly activities, Celebrity Cruises once again lived up to its reputation for luxury and exceptional service.

Whether you’re traveling with young children or seeking a more intimate cruise experience, the Celebrity Summit offers a fantastic blend of comfort, elegance and adventure. From the bustling cities of Vancouver and San Francisco to the peaceful days at sea, it was truly a journey to remember.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable cruise? Whether you're sailing with little ones, seeking relaxation or craving adventure, the Celebrity Summit has something for everyone. Reach out today to begin crafting your dream cruise vacation, and let me help you navigate every step to ensure your next voyage is just as memorable and stress-free as ours. The perfect cruise is just a conversation away — let’s start planning!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Los Angeles. In need of further inspiration? Check out Gianna Quattrini’s guide, Insiders Guide to Los Angeles.