6.10.26 Get Ready #4
Get Ready #4 for Chris Botti at Sea III
We're excited to bring you the fourth installment of our Get Ready email series as we continue preparing for Chris Botti at Sea III!
In our previous updates, we've covered topics including your reservation details, pre-cruise planning and shore excursions. In this edition, we're turning our attention to the onboard experience and sharing information to help you make the most of your time aboard the Celebrity Summit.
As always, our team is here to answer any questions and help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from now through embarkation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon!
Michael Lazaroff
Executive Director
Signature Cruise Experiences
In Case You Missed It:
Josh Groban is Performing on Chris Botti at Sea III
If you didn't hear the big announcement earlier this week, you're in for a big treat – Josh Groban will be joining us aboard Chris Botti at Sea III!
Instantly recognizable after just a few notes, Josh Groban is one of the most popular and talented vocalists of his generation. His extraordinary range spans opera, Broadway, pop and more. So does his career: Tony® winner, Emmy® winner, multiple GRAMMY® nominee and one of music's most respected singer-songwriter-actor-philanthropists. He is truly a Renaissance man.
"Josh is a longtime friend and colleague," says Chris. "I love his music and admire the range of projects that he embraces. It will be fun seeing him on the cruise."
We're thrilled to welcome Josh aboard and know his appearance will make an already extraordinary week at sea even more memorable.
Showtime Information
We’re excited to share how music and entertainment will be presented aboard Chris Botti at Sea III. You’ll enjoy performances in two different formats: Main Shows and Festival-Style Shows.
Main Shows in The Theatre
- Two Main Shows Each Night: Each night there will be two Main Shows presented in The Theatre. That venue comfortably holds 50% of our guests, so guests are divided into two groups for attending the Main Shows. Guests with BLUE Cruise Identification Cards (BLUE Guests) will attend the 1st Main Show, which usually starts around 5:30 PM each night. Guests with RED Cruise Identification Cards (RED Guests) will attend the 2nd Main Show, which usually starts around 8:30 PM each night.
- BLUEor RED: The election of being a BLUE Guest or a RED Guest was made by each Guest upon completing their reservation and is reflected in either a BLUE or RED background on their Cruise Identification Card.
- Dinner: The Main Show Schedule is meant to be coordinated with the evening dining schedule. BLUE Guests usually dine after their Main Show around 7:15-7:45 PM. RED Guests typically dine before their Main Show around 5:00-5:30 PM.
- Main Show: Every Main Show is performed twice, once for BLUE Guests and once for RED Each Guest will be able to see all Main Shows.
- Seating Procedure for Main Shows: The general rule is that seating is first-come, first-served. To provide fair, safe, and equal access to the events, we do have rules and procedures that all Guests must follow regarding entering The Theatre, saving seats, remaining in your seat for subsequent shows and other similar issues. As we approach the sailing date for Chris Botti at Sea III, we will share with you those rules and procedures.
- Please Note: Guests who qualify for Reserved Seating will receive separate correspondence with more information in the coming weeks.
Festival-Style Shows & Events
- Multiple Venues: Chris Botti at Sea features music, interviews, parties and other events in several locations across the ship, including the Sky Lounge, Rendezvous Lounge, Pool Deck and Grand Foyer. Each evening (and on afternoons during the Days at Sea) the Cosmopolitan Restaurant is transformed into a cabaret-style club and event center.
- Festival Style: Except for Main Shows, all concerts, interviews and other events including those in The Theatre – are presented “festival style,” meaning multiple programs may occur at the same time. Guests may attend as many or as few as they wish.
Seating Procedure for all Non-Main Shows: The BLUE Guest and RED Guest Show Seating designations apply only to Main Shows. All other events are open to everyone, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific seating guidelines will be shared closer to sailing.
First-Class Sound & Production
Since our first sailing in 2001, Signature Cruise Experiences has invested in top-tier equipment and an expect technical team, led by Production Manager Brian Rachko, to ensure every performance sounds its very best.
Recording of Shows
Flash photography and audio/video recording are strictly prohibited. Non-flash photos are permitted only if they do not obstruct views for other guests or disrupt the performance.
Engaging the Performers
A highlight of Chris Botti at Sea is the chance to meet and interact with our performers. They welcome conversation – just not immediately before or after a show, when they and our team need full access to the bandstand and venue to prepare for the next performance.
The Experience:
At Sea
Chris Botti at Sea III combines exceptional music with an unforgettable cruise experience – both at sea and on land. Beyond the stellar musical lineup, you'll enjoy a variety of specially curated onboard experiences designed to make your week even more memorable. Below, you'll find key information about the onboard experience to help you Get Ready.
Theme Nights
Chris Botti at Sea III features a few Theme Nights while onboard to complement the musical offerings. Every night does not feature a Theme, but we invite you to participate when we do! Below please find the Theme Night descriptions.
- Friday, September 18 – Welcome to Chris Botti at Sea:
Kick off the cruise with a spectacular opening-night performance featuring the incredible Josh Groban. - Saturday, September 19 – Black & White Night:
By dressing this evening in either Black, White or both, the guests salute the universal nature of our music as well as being a fitting tribute to the piano – a fitting backdrop for an unforgettable evening with Chris Botti and his world-class band. - Wednesday, September 23 – Formal / Chic Night:
Every cruise should have one night when guests “dress up” a notch, enjoy a special meal and party to the wee hours. Saturday is that day on Chris Botti at Sea III. You may consider “evening out” or cocktail attire. Pour the champagne! Order the lobster! This is your night to shine with the stars. - Thursday, September 24 – Thank You Night!:
As we head for Vancouver having spent a full week immersed in music and fun, we take time to salute the international reach of music and the shared camaraderie that it provides.
Autographs/Recording Signings
Performers are encouraged to bring recordings onto the cruise for sale in the Signature Cruise Experiences’ merch store. Those who do so are usually happy to sign the products either informally or at a scheduled signing event. Seeking autographs at a performance venue either immediately before or after a show is discouraged. As we get closer to the cruise sailing dates, we will provide more information about autographs and signings.
Talent-Hosted Events Onboard
Many of the performers will be participating in scheduled Talent-Hosted Events (THEs) during the cruise, such as Wine Tastings, Pizza-Making and Behind-the-Scenes Tours. These events typically require paid admission, but they are a wonderful way to have a more intimate exchange with the performers. Specific information about THEs, including times, costs, registering procedures and participating musicians will be provided shortly.
Interviews
For many guests, attending the interview of a special performer is one of the highlights of the cruise. To learn more about the individuals performing our music and to understand some of the nuances on their roads to successful careers is a rare treat. On Botti at Sea III, these interviews are conducted by either a fellow performer as the host, or by Signature Cruise Experiences’ Talent Director, Gene Dobbs Bradford. We have found that the rapport between and among performers and Gene is special and so, too, are their interviews when it is just them having a conversation.
Game Shows
We can’t promise Let’s Make a Deal or The 10,000 Pyramid, but we can promise laughs, friendly banter and maybe a bit of performance anxiety for our artists who will find themselves in a different position on a main stage. Come on down, see what’s behind door #1, is that your final answer? Join in the fun as some of our performers and guests take part in our SCE Game Shows!
The Experience:
On Land
One of the things that makes Chris Botti at Sea III so special is the itinerary itself. With extended stays in incredible ports of call (San Francisco and Victoria, BC), you'll have the opportunity to explore each destination in a meaningful way.
To help you make the most of your time ashore, Signature Cruise Experiences has curated a collection of optional excursions designed specifically for our guests. These experiences reflect the same attention to detail and commitment to quality that define the onboard experience, while offering unique opportunities to connect with the culture, music, cuisine and spirit of each destination.
We encourage you to explore your options and begin planning your time ashore now. To learn more about the excursions available and hear how these experiences were selected and developed, join us for:
As your voyage aboard Chris Botti at Sea III approaches, we encourage you to check out our specially curated land-based excursions. To get an inside look at these exclusive experiences and learn how to make the most of your time ashore, join us for:
West Coast Excursions Webinar
Tuesday, June 16th, 2026
4:00 PM EST
Hosted via Zoom
During this live session, members of the Signature Cruise Experiences team will walk you through the excursion reservation process and what to expect on our land-based excursions. To attend, please register using the link below:
Excursion Spotlight
Sonoma Valley: Donum Estate
Sunday, September 20, 2026 & Monday, September 21, 2026
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Discover the harmony of world-class art, nature, and fine wine with Donum Estate’s Grove Seated Tasting & Walking Tour through the Donum Home, Rose Garden and our internationally renowned Sensory Garden. As you explore, you’ll encounter monumental works by globally acclaimed artists, each thoughtfully placed to enhance the surrounding landscape. The journey concludes with a private seated wine tasting, thoughtfully paired with artfully crafted canapé bites.
Founded in 2011, The Donum Collection is one of the world’s largest accessible private sculpture collections. Throughout the 200-acre estate, each piece plays with scale, nature, and imagination. This evolving collection brings together a global community of artists, including works from leading practitioners from 18 nations, across 6 continents. Donum brings to life a delicate balance between wine, land and art that has made it an international destination.
Two of Signature Cruise Experience’s land-based excursions feature a visit to Donum Estate venturing into Carneros, sitting in between the Sonoma and Napa Valleys. On Sunday, September 20, your excursion continues at Buena Vista Winery, and on Monday, September 21, your excursion continues at Etude Wines. Both of these wineries complement the experience of Donum Estate and feature additional wine tastings and gourmet lunches.
Cruise Tips
We frequently get asked the same set of questions about the cruise, so we thought it best to highlight a few of them in this Get Ready letter. For a more extensive list of questions and answers, check out the FAQs on the website.
CRUISE FAQS
Cruise Attire
To help simplify your packing list, our nightly dress code is Casual Evening Attire for most nights onboard the ship. We recommend slacks, collared shirts, khakis, skirts, dresses, etc., but always with a focus on your comfort. We will have a “Formal” evening during our cruise that has a dress code of Elegant Evening Chic Attire. This attire lends itself more to suits and cocktail dresses, etc. Daytime and Buffet Dining are Casual Attire.
Tipping Onboard
Gratuities are included in the Pass-Through Charges pricing for your cruise. Your stateroom steward and dining room staff receive gratuities included in the per person price that you paid for your cruise. If you feel you have received superior, above-and-beyond service, we recommend that you leave an additional gratuity.
Smoking Areas
Smoking is allowed in Designated Smoking Areas ONLY. Smoking in any area beyond the Designated Smoking Areas, including in staterooms and on balconies, is strictly prohibited. Smoking Areas are subject to change, but are typically located on Deck 11 Portside, Deck 10 Portside on the Pool Deck and on Deck 4 Midship, a covered outdoor area.
Reminders from Get Ready #1–3
The items below were introduced earlier in our Get Ready letters, but we are repeating them here because several are time-sensitive and all are important steps to complete before sailing. If you need to revisit any previous Get Ready notices, you can find them under the Booked Guests portal.
- Passport: Locate your passport and ensure the expiration date is no earlier than 6 months after the disembarkation date of our cruise.
- Drink and Wi-Fi Packages: Discounts on Beverage and Internet packages are available through September 15, 2026 via your Celebrity Cruises Pre-Cruise Planner.
- Guests Requiring Special Assistance: Signature Cruise Experiences and Celebrity Cruises make every effort to make cruising accessible to everyone. Below please find some reminders from Get Ready #3.
- Pier Assistance: If you or your traveling companions require assistance through the boarding and departure operations please email Signature Cruise Experiences at [email protected] or call us at 852.9987 no later than August 4th, 2026.
- Scooter & Wheelchair Requests: Celebrity Cruises’ Access Department can assist by providing information for wheelchair and scooter rental companies. You can contact the Celebrity Cruises’ Access Department at 866.592.7225 or [email protected]
- Dietary Considerations & Medical Needs: If you have special dietary considerations or medical needs (such as storing medicine or needing distilled water) you will need to discuss these needs with the Celebrity Cruises Access Department at 866.592.7225 or [email protected]. Please submit your requests no later than July 20th, 2026.
- Travel Insurance: The benefits of Travel Insurance go far beyond providing basic cancellation coverage. It is not too late to purchase travel insurance. Travel Guard also provides many other valuable services. Click here to review the full details as coverage varies by state and country. To purchase the Preferred Plan or to receive a quote, please call us at 852.9987.
- Bring-A-Friend: There is still time to Bring-A-Friend with you on Chris Botti at Sea III! Staterooms are available, and if your friend completes their reservation, either online or by calling the office, by using the Promo Code: FRIENDS, both you and your friend will earn a $500 Onboard Credit per stateroom which can be used for any purchases on the ship. This promotion is running now through July 15th, 2026.
Stay Tuned for More Cruise Information
We will continue to provide you with more information to help you prepare for Chris Botti at Sea III in the coming weeks and months. This will include everything from how to board the ship, theme nights, showtimes and much more. In the meantime, we highly suggest reviewing our Booked Guest portal on the website.
6.3.26 Get Ready #3
Get Ready #3 for Chris Botti at Sea III
Ready to Get Ready? This is the third letter in Signature Cruise Experiences’ Get Ready series, designed to help prepare you for sailing on Chris Botti at Sea III.
In earlier messages, we covered showtime information and how to access your Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner. The primary purpose of this letter is to inform Guests who require special assistance with arrival, boarding, seating or dietary needs about the resources available to them and how to request these accommodations. If you missed either of the first two letters or wish to refer to them again, copies may be found on Chris Botti at Sea III website in the Booked Guests portal. As always, our team is happy to assist with your questions or concerns. We are getting closer to Embarkation Day and the excitement is building!
Michael Lazaroff
Executive Director
Signature Cruise Experiences
Your Reservation Information
GUEST NAME(S): In your email
STATEROOM CATEGORY: In your email
STATEROOM NUMBER: In your email
SIGNATURE CRUISE EXPERIENCES' RESERVATION NUMBER: In your email
CELEBRITY CRUISES' RESERVATION NUMBER: In your email
MAIN SHOW TIME: In your email
Onboard Amenities Available for Purchase on
Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner
As you know, Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner is now open and you may purchase Drink and Wi-Fi Packages, Specialty Dining Reservations, Spa Treatments and more. Signature Cruise Experiences and Celebrity Cruises have worked together to offer special discounts on Drink and Wi-Fi packages for those guests who complete their purchases BEFORE sailing. These discounts will expire on September 15, 2026.
To see all of the options available and to make purchases, just visit www.celebritycruises.com/booked, sign in or create an account, then choose “Plan My Cruise” to see all available options. Your Celebrity Cruises’ Reservation Number (listed above) will be required to complete these purchases.
Guests Requiring Special Assistance
Celebrity Cruises make every effort to make cruising accessible to everyone. Below please find information on assistance options that our guests frequently inquire about.
Pier Assistance
The Pier Assistance program offers boarding and departure assistance with wheelchairs to guests with mobility issues for you and your traveling companions. Please email Signature Cruise Experiences at [email protected] or call us at 888.852.9987 and a member of our Guest Services team will add this accommodation to your reservation. Please submit your requests no later than August 4th, 2026.
Scooter & Wheelchair Rental
Wheelchairs and scooters are available to rent from several sources and will be delivered to your stateroom before you board. Celebrity Cruises Access Department can assist by providing information for wheelchair and scooter rental companies. You can contact the Celebrity Cruises Access Department at 1.866.592.7225 or [email protected].
The following scooter and wheelchair rental services may also assist with rental needs:
- Special Needs at Sea: 800.513.4515 or visit their website HERE.
- Scootaround: 888.441.7575 or visit their HERE.
Please note: If you opt to rent from Special Needs at Sea or Scootaround, you must also contact the Access Department at Celebrity Cruises no later than August 4th, 2026, to document the delivery to the ship.
Main Show Seating Assistance for Entry (SAFE)
The Botti at Sea onboard accessibility program is designed to allow safe and convenient access (for a guest and one companion) to The Theatre for each evening’s Main Show. Designated SAFE areas will be clearly marked and are reserved for those who require assistance and submit the requested information. By utilizing the SAFE program, you are given an easily accessible seat, typically located near the rear of The Theatre on Deck 5. The SAFE program is only for Main Shows (RED/BLUE Shows) in The Theatre and does not guarantee a seat in other shows, including Late Night and matinee shows in The Theatre. Click here to complete the SAFE form no later than August 19, 2026 (30 days prior to sailing).
Please note: Utilizing SAFE in order to avoid wait time is strictly prohibited. Guests who attempt to misuse this service will be revoked from the program for the duration of the cruise and possible future sailings.
Dietary Considerations & Medical Needs
If you have special dietary considerations or medical needs (such as storing medicine or needing distilled water) you will need to discuss these needs with the Celebrity Cruises Access Department at 1.866.592.7225 or [email protected]. Please submit your requests no later than July 20th, 2026.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance, not only to protect the investment of your Cruise payments, but to cover costs and expenses that may be incurred during the cruise, such as medical or travel emergencies. It is not too late to purchase travel insurance, though guests with pre-existing conditions must do so within 14 days after their deposit is paid.
The benefits of Travel Insurance go far beyond providing basic cancellation coverage. Other benefits can include:
- Your personal medical plan may not provide complete coverage outside the U.S. and its territories. The Travel Guest Preferred plan gives you $50,000 in accident, sickness, and medical coverage.
- Work related reasons which are state specific (please refer to the link below for your state).
- Medical emergency/death of an immediate family member or cabinmate.
- Travel Guard Preferred offers up to $500,000 in medical evacuation coverage if you need to be transported off the ship and to a U.S. hospital.
- Lost or stolen luggage protection, and personal effects coverage up to $1,000.
Travel Guard also provides many other valuable services. Click here to review the full details as coverage varies by state and country. To purchase the Preferred Plan or to receive a quote, please call us at 888.852.9987.
Bring a Friend to Botti at Sea!
There is still time to Bring a Friend with you on Chris Botti at Sea III! Veranda Plus, Veranda, Ocean View and Inside Staterooms are available and, if your friend completes their reservation either online or by calling the office and using Promo Code: FRIENDS, both you and your friend will earn a $500 Onboard Credit per stateroom which can be used for any purchases on the ship. Having a friend with you only magnifies the experience and fun!
This promotion is running now through July 15th, 2026. Guests must make a reservation using the Promo Code: FRIENDS. Referred Guests cannot have an existing reservation for Chris Botti at Sea III. This offer is not valid for reservations that are sponsored or travel companions sailing in your own stateroom.
West Coast Excursions Webinar
As your voyage aboard Chris Botti at Sea III approaches, we encourage you to check out our specially curated land-based excursions. To get an inside look at these exclusive experiences and learn how to make the most of your time ashore, join us for:
West Coast Excursions Webinar for
Botti at Sea III and
The Smooth Jazz Cruise '26.3
Tuesday, June 16th, 2026
4:00 PM EST
Hosted via Zoom
During this live session, members of the Signature Cruise Experiences team will walk you through the excursion reservation process and what to expect on our land-based excursions. To attend, please register using the link below:
Excursion Spotlight
Napa Valley Wine Train: Gourmet Express Lunch
Sunday, September 20, 2026 / Monday, September 21, 2026
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Signature Cruise Experiences has exclusively chartered the Napa Valley Wine Train just for our guests, offering two unforgettable excursions from San Francisco on September 20 & 21. These experiences are one of the best ways to make the most of your time in port, taking guests beyond the city and into the heart of beautiful Napa Valley.
We are thrilled to announce some of our amazing artists on Chris Botti at Sea III will be joining our guests onboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. On Sunday, September 20, John Splithoff and Benny Benack III and on Monday, September 21, Morgan James and Doug Wamble will be onboard the Wine Train. This excursion aboard a 1915 Pullman car combines a sumptuous three-course gourmet lunch, a three-hour unique train ride through the Napa Valley countryside and the opportunity to spend time with some of your favorite artists.
See below for more details about each excursion.
Reminders FROM Get Ready #1 – 2
The items below have been presented and discussed in detail in prior Get Ready letters. We are repeating them as some are time sensitive and most are important steps for you to take before sailing. Again, past Get Ready letters are located under the Booked Guests portal on Chris Botti at Sea III website.
- Passport: Every guest should have a current passport that expires no earlier than 6 months after the disembarkation date of their cruise (September 25, 2026).
Reservation Numbers: Each guest has two reservation numbers, one from Signature Cruise Experiences and one from Celebrity Cruises. You can confirm those numbers by reviewing your cruise information listed above. Your Signature Cruise Experiences’ Reservation Number is used when communicating with our office about the details of your reservation, payment plans, and any other aspect of the cruises that SCE controls. Your Celebrity Cruises’ Reservation Number is used when you complete your online check-in (available 45 days before sailing) and for purchases you wish to make before sailing through your Celebrity Cruises Pre-Cruise Planner.
Stay Tuned for More Cruise Information!
We will continue to provide you with more information to help you prepare for Chris Botti at Sea III in the coming weeks and months. This will include everything from how to board the ship, theme nights, showtimes and much more. In the meantime, we highly suggest reviewing our Booked Guest portal on the website.
5.20.26 Get Ready #2
Get Ready #2 for Chris Botti at Sea III!
The wait is over! Your Pre-Cruise Planner is now ready!
Chris Botti at Sea III is just a couple of months away and Embarkation Day will be here before you know it! Everything you need to plan your onboard experience is now available.
This message includes your Celebrity Cruises’ Reservation Number, which gives you access to Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner. Through this portal, you can make purchases and reservations you’ll enjoy once onboard. Taking care of these items now, not only saves time at the pier, it may also save you money.
Please remember:
- Your Celebrity Cruises’ Reservation Number is your key to managing your cruise experience with the ship (Celebrity Summit) including Specialty Dining reservations, booking Spa appointments, purchasing Beverage and Wi-Fi packages and more.
- Your Signature Cruise Experiences’ Reservation Number is your reference when contacting our office. This number connects to your stateroom selection, payment plan, dining/show seating preferences and all the music and entertainment programming we produce.
We’re ready to get you ready – and hope this letter provides you with everything you need. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 888.852.9987 or [email protected]. It’s our job (and our pleasure) to make your cruise amazing.
Michael Lazaroff
Executive Director
Signature Cruise Experiences
Your Reservation Information
CELEBRITY CRUISES' RESERVATION NUMBER: Information in your email
GUEST NAME(S): Information in your email
MAIN SHOW SEATING: Information in your email
With your Celebrity Cruises’ Reservation Number now issued for Chris Botti at Sea III, you can begin planning your onboard experience before you even set foot on the ship. Through Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner, guests may purchase Beverage and Wi-Fi Packages, Specialty Dining Reservations, Spa Treatments, Photo Packages and more.
Get Started with Your Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner
- CLICK HERE to log in with your Celebrity Cruises username and password.
- Select Sign In if you have previously utilized Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner to check-in online for a previous sailing.
- Forgot your password? Click “Forgot password?” to reset.
- New to Celebrity Cruises? Click “Create an account” and follow the prompts.
- Enter your Celebrity Cruises' Reservation Number (listed above).
- Under Chris Botti at Sea '26 in your upcoming cruises, click 'Plan My Cruise' to view and begin your Pre-Cruise planning.
Your Celebrity Cruises’ Reservation Number is also needed to complete your online check-in procedure which will be available 45 days prior to sailing. We will notify you when the Celebrity Cruises' online check-in process opens.
SIGN INTO CELEBRITY'S PRE-CRUISE PLANNER
Special Discounts for Signature Cruise Experiences' Guests
Signature Cruise Experiences and Celebrity Cruises have worked together to offer special discounts on Drink and Wi-Fi Packages for those guests who complete their purchases BEFORE sailing. These discounts (noted below) will expire on September 15, 2026, and require no special procedure as they are loaded into Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner.
These packages will also be available to purchase onboard the cruise; however, prices will be higher and completing the process may take time away from your vacation. SCE highly recommends completing this process now so that you can relax and enjoy the music without missing a beat.
Specialty Dining
As many of you know, we transform Celebrity Summit’s restaurants, Blu and Qsine, into unique dining experiences created exclusively for our guests. For our West Coast sailings, we are thrilled to bring back the Signature Steakhouse at Blu (formerly known as Chops House) and introduce a new restaurant concept created especially for this itinerary. In collaboration with renowned San Francisco Chronicle food critic, Michael Bauer, we are proud to present A Taste of San Francisco @ Qsine – a culinary experience featuring dishes inspired by the iconic food scene of the Bay Area.
We are pleased to share that we have worked with Celebrity Cruises to offer a special First Night Dining Discount at select restaurants on Night 1. On embarkation evening, guests dining at Signature Steakhouse at Blu or Tuscan Grille will receive 30% off their meal – the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long travel day. Reservations are limited and may now be made through Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner.
Showtime Information
We’re excited to share an overview of how music and entertainment will be presented aboard Chris Botti at Sea III. Throughout the sailing, performances will be presented in two different formats: Main Shows and Festival-Style Shows. We will provide more detailed information about the onboard music schedule and entertainment experience in upcoming Get Ready emails, but we wanted to first share the general structure of Dinner and Main Show seating so you can make your reservations with confidence.
Main Shows in The Theatre
- Two Main Shows Each Night. Each night there will be two Main Shows presented in The Theatre. That venue comfortably holds 50% of our guests, so Guests are divided into two groups for attending the Main Shows. Guests with BLUE Cruise Identification Cards (BLUE Guests) will attend the 1st Main Show, which usually starts around 5:30/6:00 PM each night. Guests with RED Cruise Identification Cards (RED Guests) will attend the 2nd Main Show, which usually starts around 8:30/8:45 PM each night.
- BLUE or RED. The election of being a RED Guest or a BLUE Guest was made by the Guest upon completing their reservation and is reflected in either a BLUE or RED background on their Cruise Identification Card. For your convenience, your Main Show selection is noted at the top of this email.
- The Main Show Schedule is meant to be coordinated with the evening dining schedule. BLUE Guests usually dine after their Main Show (starting around 7:15 PM) and RED Guests typically dine before their Main Show (starting at around 5:00/5:30 PM).
Main Show. Every Main Show is performed twice, once for BLUE Guests and once for RED. Each Guest will be able to see all seven Main Shows.
SCE Excursions & Celebrity Cruises’ Shore Excursions
Our specially curated Land-based Excursions are live and ready to book! Signature Cruise Experiences has hand-selected a lineup of exceptional land-based excursions to showcase our ports of call - San Francisco (September 20 & 21) and in Victoria, B.C. (September 24). Whether you’re looking for culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, or the chance to explore each city’s most iconic sights, these excursions were designed to elevate your time ashore and perfectly complement the music and energy awaiting you each night onboard.
To explore full excursion details and secure your preferred experiences, visit Chris Botti at Sea III website.
Additionally, Celebrity Cruises’ Shore Excursions department will also be offering a variety of excursions via the Pre-Cruise Planner in San Francisco and Victoria. To explore those options simply log in to your Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner.
Whether you book one of Signature Cruise Experiences curated excursions or a standard Celebrity Cruises’ Shore Excursion we hope you will make the most of our time in these amazing ports of call.
Questions About Your Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner?
Celebrity Cruises has a dedicated charter team for charter cruises. They can assist with any questions that you might have while using the Pre-Cruise Planner. You can reach them by phone at 844.278.9746.
Stay Tuned for More Cruise Information!
We will continue to provide you with more information to help you prepare for Chris Botti at Sea III in the coming weeks and months. This will include everything from how to board the ship, theme nights, showtimes and much more. In the meantime, we highly suggest reviewing our Booked Guest portal on the website.
5.4.26 Get Ready #1
Get Ready #1 for Chris Botti at Sea III!
This is the first in a series of messages you will receive from us over the next few months, each one prompting you to take "Get Ready" steps to help avoid last-minute anxiety and stress for your sailing on Chris Botti at Sea III.
Though Chris Botti at Sea III embarks in September, Embarkation Day comes quickly! By planning ahead, you can be ready for every aspect of your sailing with ease. As always, Signature Cruise Experiences will be here to guide you every step of the way.
This first note addresses tasks that may require some time to complete, such as locating (and possibly updating) your Passport and Identification. These items are essential to your ability to board the ship and participate in our activities. Later notes will address items of entertainment, excursions, dining and more. We will also share our theme night plans, programming highlights, artist-hosted events and more.
Ready to Get Ready? Follow our schedule and we promise that you will be set to sail on Chris Botti at Sea III! As always, our team at Signature Cruise Experiences will be here to guide you every step of the way.
Michael Lazaroff
Executive Director
Signature Cruise Experiences, LLC
Your Cruise Details
Sailing Dates: Friday, September 18 - Friday, September 25, 2026
Ship: Celebrity Summit
Itinerary: 
Tasks Requiring Immediate Response
Below are tasks that may require either prompt attention or some lead time in completing. The sooner you address these issues, the easier it will be to complete them.
Passports or Government-Issued ID
Guests are REQUIRED to have a valid passport which (a) expires no sooner than six months beyond the last day of the cruise and (b) contains two blank passport pages. Please confirm that the first and last names on your passport or government-issued ID match the first and last names on your cruise reservation to ensure that you will be permitted to board the ship. It is your responsibility to identify and obtain all required travel documents and have them available when necessary. Click here to view the complete list of required travel documents for U.S. and Non-U.S. citizens. Please note that a birth certificate and government-issued ID are not accepted forms of identification for this cruise.
Review Your Apparel Size
Your gift of Chris Botti at Sea gear will be available on the ship. Please take a moment to review the size(s) currently listed on your reservation (above).
This year’s gift is a unisex-fit pullover jacket, which may fit differently than the shirt sizes previously provided.
If you would like to update your size for the jacket, please complete the short form linked below by Friday, May 29, 2026.
Be sure to review the size chart before making your selection.
Planning Your Trip
If you have not already planned your arrival into the Los Angeles area, now is the time to start preparing. We highly recommend that guests arrive the day BEFORE embarkation in order to alleviate stress from any potential travel delays or issues.
To further assist you with planning, Signature Cruise Experiences has compiled a list of potential hotels at various locations and price points in the Los Angeles area, along with a direct link to each reservation procedure for your review. Going to the reservation link is the only way to determine both price and availability for each hotel. Please contact the hotel regarding airport / cruise port shuttle service.
EXPLORE PRE-CRUISE HOTEL OPTIONS
Friday, September 18, 2026 is Embarkation Day. Historically, boarding begins at 11:30 AM and all aboard time is 4:00 PM. During the Online Check-In process (starting at 45 days prior to Embarkation Day), you will be asked by Celebrity Cruises to select a Terminal Arrival Time, available in half-hour increments. For the most efficient embarkation, guests are required to arrive at the terminal (Los Angeles World Cruise Center) during their selected window.
The ship will dock at the Port of Vancouver/Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal by 7:00 AM on Friday, September 25, 2026. Due to the time it takes to clear Customs and Immigration at the cruise terminal, it is difficult to estimate what time you will be able to depart for the airport.
However, if you are willing to carry your own luggage off the ship, you may be able to leave the port as early as 7:30 AM, if disembarkation proceeds without issue. To be safe, we do not recommend any flight scheduled prior to 12:00 PM from the Vancouver area airports.
More information/recommendations for Planning Your Trip can be found here.
Coming Soon – Celebrity Cruises' Pre-Cruise Planner
It is popular among Chris Botti at Sea III guests to purchase Internet Plans, Beverage Packages, Specialty Dining, Spa Treatments, Photo Packages and other amenities before boarding the ship. There is no central location on the ship for completing these purchases so doing so requires standing in several lines.
Most guests complete their purchases by using Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner, an online platform that allows you to complete purchases from home, usually at prices lower than what is offered on the ship. In the coming weeks, we will provide you with your Celebrity Cruises Reservation Number for the cruise, which is all you need to initiate your Celebrity Cruises’ Pre-Cruise Planner and begin to make these purchases.
Special SCE Excursions Available
Chris Botti at Sea III is excited to feature a robust on-land component. With nearly two full days in San Francisco and a full day in Victoria, BC we have created shows, trips, and excursions just for you and are offering them at cost as our gift for sailing on this new program. Whether you’re looking for culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, or the chance to explore each city’s most iconic sights, these excursions were designed to elevate your time ashore and perfectly complement the music and energy awaiting you each night onboard.
As a booked guest on Chris Botti at Sea, these excursions are available exclusively for you! If you have not already planned your time while we are in port in San Francisco and Victoria, we invite you to peruse the options and sign up online (or call the office if you have specific questions). Many of the excursions have limited capacity and few are already Fully Reserved, so acting now is advised.
Stay Tuned
As mentioned, we will continue to provide you with more information to help you prepare for Chris Botti at Sea III in the coming weeks and months. This will include everything from how you board the ship, pre-cruise purchases, dining options onboard, Theme Nights, showtimes and much more. In the meantime, we highly suggest reviewing our Booked Guest portal on the website.
We cannot wait to welcome you onboard the ship!