My wife and I have spent over 400 days on a cruise ship but the last 12 were something special. Though we sympathize with Celebrity, we couldn't help but love; not waiting for elevators, no mob scenes in the buffet, quick bar service, easy to access deck loungers. etc.
For experienced cruisers there are some differences. The Equinox does its best to avoid inviting larger numbers of passengers into small venues so many of those events are suspended. There are other bumps in the road but the positives far outweigh the negatives.
Concerned? Don't be. Celebrity has taken extensive steps to make the Equinox safer than any place but home. Download their app to get the latest updates before your cruise. On board you will be asked to carry a tracker making it easier to identify those at risk if someone gets sick. Once onboard, masks are optional for guests. On our particular cruise which sailed with all adults vaccinated and tested, most chose to go maskless. Keep in mind Celebrity and their fantastic employees were forced to sit idle for 15+ months and have to follow special rules to operate in today's environment. Take it easy on them.
has a nice balcony bump out at the end of the starboard side. The balcony is a little larger than typical.