Celebrity Cruises

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Review of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises Inc (celebritycruises.com) is the second-largest (by fleet) subsidiary and travel brand in the RCCL/RCG (Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd/Royal Caribbean Group) of companies. The 1990-established "Celebrity" cruise brand joined RCCL in 1997.

Celebrity represents one of the best "luxury ship travel" companies for adults, as well as a signature operator of regularly scheduled Panama Canal transition itineraries and one of the top 3 Alaskan cruise lines. In May 2020, the company celebrated its 30th Anniversary.

Company History

Celebrity is a medium-priced luxury cruise company, whose travel vacation package product is associated with top-hotel amenities, premium services, sophistication, style, elegance, technology innovations. Celebrity cruise liners offer impeccable service and exquisite cuisine, appealing to moderately affluent, well-educated travelers (mostly adults in their 40s). Celebrity offers "Family Cruises" during holidays (particularly on voyages from the USA to the Caribbean and Bermuda) and "Seniors Cruises" (on European and South American itineraries). The letter "X" on ships' funnels stands for the name "Chandris" (in Greek "Xandris").

Celebrity Cruises logo

The company was founded in 1988 as part of Chandris Group (Athens Greece-based marine corporation, now Chandris Hellas Inc) - shipowner and vessel management. Before Celebrity, Chandris Group operated the cruise brands "Chandris Line" (1960-1974, ocean liner crossings between Greece and Australia), "Chandris Cruises" (1974-1996, Mediterranean itineraries from Greece) and "Chandris Fantasy Cruises (1985--1996, North American itineraries). Chandris' brand "Celebrity Cruises" started with cheap voyages offered on second-hand ships, to become one of the industry's most prominent premium "affordable luxury" ship travel brands.

The company's current President and CEO is Laura Hodges Bethge (Celebrity's former Executive VP), who succeeded in 2023 (May) Lisa Lutoff-Perlo (now Vice Chair and External Affairs for RCG). Tim Jones is Celebrity's VP and Managing Director for Australia, New Zealand & APAC/Asia Pacific region)

Celebrity entered the luxury cruising marked with roundtrips from the USA to Bermuda, acquiring more and newer liners.

As a brand of RCG, Celebrity's sister companies are RCI-Royal Caribbean International, Pullmantur (Spain), Marella (UK), TUI (Germany), and Silversea.

The company's headquarters address is "Celebrity Cruises, 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami FL, 33132-2096 USA".

Celebrity Cruises Solstice-class ship model (Eclipse., Equinox, Silhouette, Solstice, Reflection)

The company attracts a diverse passenger base, targeting mainly baby boomers and their families, honeymooners, and seniors. In addition to North American customers (USA and Canada), it also draws travelers from Europe, Central and South America. Longer itineraries tend to attract older travelers.

Week-long roundtrips in Alaska and the Caribbean attract many families. To appeal to multi-generational groups, Celebrity's family programs were expanded to include dedicated, well-trained staff serving shipboard kids and teen centers with enrichment and educational activities.

Celebrity Cruises Solstice-class ship model (Eclipse., Equinox, Silhouette, Solstice, Reflection)

On October 4, 2018, was launched "Celebrity Central" (website for travel agents). It has 6 sections (news, marketing, and sales, learning and training) and is accessed via personalized log-ins. It combines AirWaves, CruisingPower, the company's sales and marketing toolkit (Rewards, Digital Library) and Celebrity Passport (e-learning resource). Celebrity Central has a search bar and tags for popular terms and topics.

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ship model

In December 2020, Celebrity's parent company (RCG-Royal Caribbean Group) sold the Galapagos-based ship Celebrity Xperience to Emerald Blue Cruises Panama. The boat was named Celebrity Xperience (January 2016 through March 2020), "MS Xperience" (April through November 2020) and "Emerald Dream" (since December 2020).

Since 2022, Celebrity's well-being advisor is Gwyneth Paltrow (1972-born American actress and businesswoman, owner of the lifestyle brand company Goop Inc). The first “Goop at Sea” event debuted on Celebrity Beyond’s 9-night "Italian Riviera and France Cruise" (Barcelona roundtrip, departure Sept 24, 2022). Each "Celebrity Goop Cruise" is Goop-curated and features a live interview-Q&A session (with a wellness expert), themed experiences (food tastings, product trials, sale promotions, massages), interactive sessions (led by practitioners), gifts, surprises, on-demand TV classes (in the public restrooms), a detox smoothie and fitness tools (for Aquaclass cabins), an ultra-luxury wellness experience (for Aqua Sky Suites). Feres on the Goop-themed voyages start from US$750 pp with double occupancy.

By March 2023, Celebrity added pickleball playing (at the sports courts) fleetwide. The sports facilities are complimentary, including the equipment (net, paddles, balls). Pickleball Court's locations vary by ship class - EDGE ships at Rooftop Garden (Deck 15), on SOLSTICE ships on the Sports Deck (Deck 15), and on MILLENNIUM ships at the Multi-Sports Court (Deck 12).

In summer 2024 (starting in April), for the first time ever, Celebrity ships (Beyond and Reflection, being redeployed from Europe/Mediterranean to the Caribbean) will visit Royal Caribbean's private island CocoCay Bahamas.

New ships

The following YouTube video (official release) reviews the company's newest Edge-Class vessels and their unique features. The EDGE series includes all 5 units - Celebrity Edge (2018), Celebrity Apex (2020), Celebrity Beyond (2022), Celebrity Ascent (2023) and Celebrity Xcel (2025).

 

On April 11, 2019, the shipowner RCCL signed an MoU agreement with Chantiers de l'Atlantique Shipyard (St Nazaire, France) to order a 5th Edge-Class vessel, with scheduled delivery in 2024-Q3.

In February 2014, Celebrity Cruises announced it would add "The Suite Class" fleetwide. Suite Class passengers have their own private restaurant and VIP lounge. Key features on Solstice Class ships include the Lawn Club, which is a freshly manicured lawn on the ship's highest deck. Passengers enjoy casual outdoor activities, a country-club atmosphere, and grass between their toes. They can watch a glass-blowing demonstration on Equinox, Eclipse, and Solstice, or a meal in the Lawn Club Grill. Celebrity ships also have Cellar Masters, inspired by the Napa Valley vineyards, which brings to life a global wine cruise tour experience, while guests learn about and taste a variety of premium wines from around the world.

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ship model

In March 2016, Celebrity Cruises acquired the two-ship company "Ocean Adventures". The purchase of the 16-passenger catamaran Athala II (Celebrity Xploration) and 48-passenger yacht Eclipse (Celebrity Xperience) increased Celebrity Cruises Galapagos capacity by 65%. The two boats joined Celebrity's fleet in spring 2016 but started regular operations following extensive drydocks in January 2017.

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ships - Magic Carpet

Since March 2018, RCCL offers one login for RCI and Celebrity websites and mobile apps. The new policy allows one account to be used for loyalty program benefits, bookings, and reservations with both brands. The account security was also simplified and strengthened to ensure customers' personal data.

Celebrity's loyalty program "Captain's Club"

In June 2021, Celebrity updated its "Captain's Club" loyalty program (for repeat customers).

The offerings now include:

  • onboard events "Captain's Club Sneak Peek Series" (ship tour with cocktail sampling), "Create and Pour" (wine sampling), Welcome Parties (outdoor events held at Lawn Club and Rooftop Garden), "Captain's Club Cocktail Hour (free drinks daily between 5-7 PM at all bars and lounges).
  • Spa discounts (10% off for Select and Elite members, 15-20% off for Elite Plus and Zenith members), deals exclude MedSpa and Spa Retails, but for Elite and above members Persian Garden's access is complimentary on one of the port days (guest's choice).
  • Photo discounts (25-50% off any photo packages, up to US$300 off Studio Packages), added were greenscreen photo sessions (with changing background scenery) as well as aerial and 360-degree photos.
  • Laundry packages (on select voyages only) now include "Evening Chic" (dry cleaning for US$35, 8 max items) with the optional US$20 add-on for unlimited pressing (throughout the cruise).
  • Internet discounts (10-35% off any Internet package) plus bonus minutes for Elite and Elite Plus members, an additional 10% discount (combinable) is offered with pre-cruise booking. Zenith members receive complimentary the Stream package (for 1x mobile device).
  • Beverage package discounts (5-10% off to upgrade from "Classic" to "Premium", if purchased pre-cruise). Zenith members receive complimentary the "Premium Beverage Package".
  • Wine discounts (20% off per bottle / valid for all wine brands available for purchase on the ship). Zenith members receive one complimentary dinner (per voyage) at a specialty restaurant, marked with complimentary wine and flowers.

Celebrity Cruises Solstice-class ship (Eclipse-Equinox-Silhouette-Solstice-Reflection)

Celebrity brand's cruising experience

  • Accommodations: some of the largest cruise suites (all served by butlers). Luxurious "ConciergeClass" staterooms, attentive highly personalized impeccable service; and enjoying seating preference, priority check-in. 2:1 guest-to-staff ratio
  • Dining: award-winning cuisine, excellent alternate dining venues. Celebrity's "Gourmet Bites" every afternoon, themed lunch buffets. Culinary demonstrations. The line has partnered with "Elizabeth Blau and Associates", as to menu and wine selections, and all the standards of serving.
  • Facilities: the largest cruise ship spa and gym facilities at sea ("AquaSpa by Elemis" - world-class beauty salon, spa treatments and fitness programs). "Celebrity Theatre" for Broadway-style productions, huge European-style casinos, bingo, themed bars, and lounges, including a discoclub, large pools, poolside recreation programs (massages, yoga), onboard boutique shopping.
  • Enrichment: "Celebrity Lecture Series". Rich contemporary art collections. Art auctions, and enhanced golf program.
  • "Celebrity Escape" concept (reserved exclusively for adults ages 21 and older) offers complimentary classes, workshops, themed events, fashion shows, deck parties, etc.
  • By the "Family Cruising Program", on all voyages are offered complimentary games, parties, educational and fun activities, history and sea life explorations, dedicated/exclusive pools and discos for teens.

Via partnership with CG Technology (fka Cantor Gaming), Celebrity Cruises introduced the industry's first casino gaming mobile app. Passengers download the free app (Cantor Mobile Casino) via ship's WiFi network to Android or Apple phones/tablets. The app allows them to play slots, video poker, and table games anywhere on the ship. At the ship's casino lounge passengers can play (for real) games like roulette, poker (plus Texas Hold 'Em) and blackjack. Some ships have Let It Ride and baccarat available upon request. All ships have at least 1 poker table in the casino and host tournaments during the voyage.

Since 2013, the company has been partnered with "Top Chef" (US reality competition TV series). In late 2014, both companies started the exclusive "Top Chef at Sea" cruising experience. By this onboard culinary program, fans and foodies have the opportunity to travel with a lineup of celebrity chefs on food-themed "Top Chef Signature Sailing" each year. Celebrity also offers an interactive "Quickfire Challenges" and "Top Chef"-inspired menu evenings fleetwide on cruises 5-nights or longer (excluding Galapagos Islands).

In 2017, Celebrity Cruises partnered with Bravo Media for a new cooking video series - "Isaac Takes On". This digital show follows Top Chef's Isaac Toups as he cruises around the Caribbean on the ship Celebrity Reflection, competing against passengers in a variety of culinary challenges. The ship has its own Michelin-star chef - Cornelius Gallagher, who also makes appearances throughout the series.

In February 2019, Celebrity Cruises announced two new (exclusive) partnerships - with Daniel Boulud (Michelin-starred Chef) and with ABT-American Ballet Theatre (NYC-based, 1939-founded classical ballet company). Both partnerships created unique onboard culinary and entertainment experiences fleetwide.

  • The Celebrity-ABT partnership allows passengers (on selected ships) to enjoy ballet shows by guest performers and to join the dancers for seminars and ballet classes.
  • Chef Daniel Boulud is the founder of a global restaurant group that includes 7 NYC restaurants plus 6 in other (national and international) destinations. As Celebrity's Global Culinary Brand Ambassador, he designs signature dishes for Luminae (exclusive / Suite-only restaurant). Celebrity also introduced "Chef's Table by Daniel Boulud" - a private galley/kitchen tour and 5-course VIP dining package.

The new experiences were introduced in 2019, starting with the liners Summit, Equinox and Millennium.

In December 2019, the company signed an exclusive partnership with OneSpaWorld Holdings Ltd (Bahamas-based global provider of health and wellness services and products to cruise ships and land-based resorts). The partnership starts in May 2020 and is fleetwide (including the newbuilds under construction).

All-inclusive deals

Since November 17, 2020, every Celebrity Cruises deal included unlimited beverages (Classic Drink Package/cocktails, beers, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, bottled water, brand coffees and teas), Basic Wi-Fi, and onboard gratuities. However, since October 2023, the brand's "All Included" packages don't include the prepaid shipboard gratuities.

Option upgrades offered to all bookings include:

  • ELEVATE Package (unlimited premium drinks and shore excursions priced up to USD 200 per person)
  • INDULGE Package (ELEVATE Package plus unlimited streaming Wi-Fi Internet and up to USD 400 per person in OBC/onboard credit).

In August 2022, the shipowner RCG-Royal Caribbean Group signed a deal with SpaceX/Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (2002-founded by Elon Musk) for using Starlink's satellites to provide faster and low-latency Internet connections across the global fleet (Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, and Silversea ships). Fleetwide Starlink installations were scheduled to be completed in 2023-Q1.

"Celebrity Revolution" fleetwide refurbishments

In July 2018, the company announced a USD 500 million fleet modernization (drydock refurbishment) program dubbed "Celebrity Revolution". The project was scheduled for February 2019 through February 2023.

Fleetwide renovations include all staterooms and public spaces on 9 liners to bring their onboard amenities and services up to the standards of EDGE-class ships. For staterooms were contracted HBA (Hirsch Bedner Associates / US-based hospitality interior design company) and Kelly Hoppen (UK-based interior designer).

All staterooms will be upgraded with eXhale bedding sets (premium cashmere mattresses) and high-tech amenities (RFID locks, Bluetooth, Xcelerate / Wi-Fi Internet).

The drydock-renovated Celebrity ships have "The Retreat" (adults-only sundeck) with a full-size swimming pool, Jacuzzi, private cabanas, padded loungers, and poolside bar service (food and drinks). The Retreat suites' passengers have priority access to the facilities and their cruise fares are also inclusive of Premium Wi-Fi Package and Premium Drink Package.

Luminae Restaurant (Suites-only) was redesigned and introduced new/custom-made menus by chef Cornelius Gallagher.

Qsine Restaurant will be added fleetwide and will offer "Le Petit Chef" (virtual dining-entertainment experience) created by Skullmapping artists and presented by TableMation Studios exclusively for Celebrity Cruises.

Main Dining Rooms, Oceanview Cafe and Sunset Bar will be redesigned, as well as most public venues. In the SPA will be added expanded SEA Thermal Suite. Retail shops will be expanded with new shopping brands - including Hublot (luxury Swiss watches) and Shinola (luxury watches, jewelry, premium leather goods).

 

The 4-year fleet refurbishment program started in February 2019. The current list of scheduled for drydocks Celebrity ships (by the "Celebrity Revolution" project) is as follows:

(NEW) Celebrity cruise gratuities 2023

Since July 2023, the company's daily gratuity rates (per person/pp, both adults and kids are charged) were increased. The new rates (listed below) are compared to the previous/2022's rates).

  • Standard cabins' (inside, oceanview, veranda) daily gratuity was increased from US$17,50 to US$18 pp (per day).
  • ConciergeClass and AquaClass staterooms' daily gratuity was changed from US$18 to US$18,50 pp (per day).
  • Suites' daily gratuity was changed from US$21 to US$23 pp (per day).

Daily gratuity is an automatic service charge added to the passenger's onboard account each day. Passengers can prepay gratuities. Daily gratuities are split between the ship's staff (dining, housekeeping, cabin stewards).

In 2018, Celebrity's daily gratuities (pp per day) were USD 13,50 (interior-oceanview-balcony staterooms), USD 14 (Aqua-Class and Concierge-Class) and USD 17 (Suites).

In 2020, Celebrity's daily gratuities (pp per day) were USD 15,50 (interior-oceanview-veranda), USD 16 (Aqua-Concierge Class) and USD 19 (Suites).

In October 2022, the gratuities were increased from US$15,50 to $17,50 (Standard), US$16 to $18 (Concierge-Aqua Class) and US$19 to $21 (Suites/The Retreat) or with ~16%, ~15%, ~21% (respectively).

Celebrity cruise ship Room Service

Celebrity Cruises requires a fee of USD 4,95 for ordering items from the cruise ship's room service menu.

  • Room Service is operated on each Celebrity cruise vessel and between 11 pm - 6 am.
  • Prior to September 2015, the basic room service items delivery to passengers' cabins was complimentary. The exception was for some premium items (like a cheese platter, filet mignon, Caprese salad).

New shipboard Wellness classes

In 2018, Celebrity and Canyon Ranch upgraded fleetwide the onboard fitness program by adding more (to a total of 20) fitness classes and wellness seminars for passengers. Of all classes, 6 are based on different exercise groups - Acupuncture (Pain Relief), Conditioning (Pilates), Longevity, Mindfulness (Spiritual Cycling), Nutrition (Detox 101), Sweat (Tabata).

Among the new wellness offerings are:

  • "Acupuncture for Pain Relief" revives energy levels, treats pain and digestive discomfort, de-stresses, aids a healthy sleep.
  • "Pilates to the Beat" is a mat class choreographed with upbeat songs.
  • "Age-Defying Technology" reviews the latest technologies, wellness products and services that help anti-aging.
  • "Spiritual Cycling" Incorporates mind and energy awareness while cycling to musical beats.
  • "Detox 101: Weight Loss and More" reviews the most effective detox foods and how they promote weight loss.
  • "Tabata Impact" is a Japanese intense and fast full-body workout offering best cardio and training techniques.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (shipowner) suspended its entire fleet's passenger shipping operations (RCI-Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, Silversea, Azamara) worldwide by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 13, 2020, through June 30, 2021.

Next are listed all Celebrity ships and their first scheduled departure dates/regions - APEX (June 19, 2021/Mediterranean from Piraeus-Athens), BEYOND (April 27, 2022/Maiden Voyage/Europe), CONSTELLATION (Nov 7, 2021/Caribbean from Tampa), ECLIPSE (April 23, 2022/Hawaii-Australia repositioning from Vancouver to Honolulu), EDGE (June 26, 2021/Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale), EQUINOX (July 25, 2021/Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale), INFINITY (June 25, 2022/Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale), MILLENNIUM (July 23, 2021/Alaska from Seattle), REFLECTION (Nov 6, 2021/Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale), SILHOUETTE (July 3, 2021/UK from Southampton), SOLSTICE (May 6, 2022/Alaska from Seattle), SUMMIT (Sept 14, 2021/Caribbean from Miami). Celebrity's Galapagos ships' restart dates were - Flora (July 4, 2021/Maiden Voyage), Xpedition (July 31, 2021), Xploration (January 1, 2022).

  • Celebrity's Australia and New Zealand 2021-2022 programs were canceled (affected ship Eclipse, homeported in Sydney NSW and Auckland NZ).
  • All Celebrity repositioning cruises in 2021 (Alaska, Panama Canal, Transatlantic) were canceled.
  • Most Celebrity's European schedules 2021 (ships Constellation, Edge, Infinity, Reflection) were canceled, excluding APEX (Med) and SILHOUETTE (UK).
  • Celebrity's South America 2021-2022 program (Infinity ship from Rio de Janeiro) was canceled.
  • Celebrity's Japan 2021-2022 program (Solstice ship from Yokohama) was canceled.

All affected bookings received full refunds (100%), including on prepurchased through Celebrity Cruises packages and services. The refunds were in FCC (Future Cruise Credit) to be used on itineraries that depart up to April 30, 2022. The FCC had to be redeemed by December 31, 2021. Changing the FCC to a monetary refund (100%) was possible thru December 31, 2020. Celebrity's Cancellation Policy was extended to allow penalty-free cancellations up to 48 hours prior departure (all itineraries departing up until September 1, 2020 / initially thru July 31) and receive an FCC.

Itinerary of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity cruise line's destinations include Alaska, Canada, Hawaii, Bermuda, Bahamas, Caribbean (all, but mostly Southern), Mexico (Caribbean/Yucatan, Pacific/Mexican Riviera), Panama Canal, South America, Australia-New Zealand, Asia (Taiwan-China-Japan, Thailand-Vietnam), Northern Europe (from the UK), Eastern and Western Mediterranean.

The Royal Caribbean-owned brand Celebrity operates one of the industry's youngest and most innovative fleets. The vessels all are Malta-flagged, except the Galapagos-based fleet (Ecuador-flagged).

Celebrity's 2024-2025 schedule (16 ships) included 250+ destinations/ports (in 70 countries), ~500 departures, new ports, more overnight and double overnight port stays. The Caribbean 2024-2025 program featured the biggest Caribbean season (9-ship fleet, new 3-4-night Caribbean itineraries and visits to CocoCay/firsts for Celebrity), and 4x American homeports (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, San Juan Puerto Rico). The European program included 40+ itineraries and overnights in 11 capital cities.

Celebrity 2024-2025-2026 cruise ship deployments

In June 2023 was announced that in 2024 (starting in April), for the first time ever, Celebrity ships (Beyond and Reflection) will be seasonally deployed to the Caribbean (both homeported in Fort Lauderdale for the summer) and will visit Royal Caribbean's private Bahamian resort island CocoCay. Celebrity Beyond has scheduled 6-8-night voyages to Western and Southern Caribbean destinations, while Celebrity Reflection’s 3-4-night short breaks/weekend getaways also visit Key West FL USA and Resorts World Bimini Bahamas. The 3-night itinerary (Friday departures) and the 4-night itinerary (Monday departures) both visit Key West, Nassau and Bimini, and CocoCay.

In Aug 2023 was announced that for 2024-2025 winter season (October-April), Celebrity deploys in the Caribbean 4x ships (Apex, Constellation, Equinox, Summit) whose schedules include visits to CocoCay. The ships' USA homeports were all in Florida (Port Canaveral/OrlandoPort Everglades/Fort LauderdaleTampa). The homeporting in Port Canaveral (Equinox) is also new/first time for Celebrity. Those special voyages were open for booking on August 22nd, 2023.

In October 2021, Celebrity revealed the program for 3 Alaskan ships during the 2023 summer season (May 3, thru mid-September), with each itinerary visiting Inside Passage. Season's highlights include:

Celebrity Eclipse's South America program lasts 4 months (December 2023 thru April 2024) and offer visiting a total of 16 destinations, a 14-night Antarctica, and a 12-night Argentina & Patagonia voyages. Call ports include Valparaiso-Santiago (Chile)Buenos Aires (Argentina), Montevideo (Uruguay), Antarctic Peninsula. Signature land tours offer visits to Chile's Osorno Volcano (from Puerto Montt), Argentina’s Playa El Doradillo (from Puerto Madryn), as well as Peru's Cusco and Machu Picchu (from Callao) during the 16-night repositioning voyage from the USA (Los Angeles) to Chile which includes 2 overnights in Callao-Lima (Peru).

In November 2022 was announced 2024-2025 program with ~500 itineraries (scheduled for 16 ships) visiting 250+ destinations across 70 different countries.

Celebrity Edge is due to set sail out of Australia between October 2024 and April 2025. She operates on itineraries from 3 to 14 nights hitting some of the country's most exciting spots. Celebrity Edge makes her way out to new ports of call across the Pacific, such as Fiji, American Samoa, Samoa, and Tonga.

Other highlights include a range of new European offerings (7 ships) including Celebrity Apex - the first EDGE liner to homeport in Europe and also sailing a new itinerary (12-night Norwegian Fjord & Arctic Circle).

Two ships are deployed in Asia (Millennium, Solstice), with Millennium leaving from Tokyo Japan on a series of 12-night itineraries with destinations including Osaka, Mt Fuji, Kyoto.

Celebrity ships also visit destinations in the Caribbean, South America (also Galapagos Islands), Alaska, Greenland, and Iceland.

In November 2022 was announced Celebrity's ever-biggest season (2024-2025) with 16 ships, ~500 departures, 250+ destinations (70 countries), new homeports and call ports, numerous in-port overnights and double overnights, new (year-round voyages) in Europe, new land tours.

2024-2025 season's highlights include:

Celebrity Millennium is homeported in Yokohama/Tokyo Japan in 2024 (April thru October) to sail 12-night roundtrip itineraries featuring overnights in Osaka. After the Japan season, Millennium joins Celebrity Solstice in Southeast Asia (September 2024 thru April 2025) for 11- to 14-night voyages visiting 32 ports/islands across Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Millennium and Solstice make Celebrity’s biggest Asian season with 32 destinations (including 7 new ports).

In August 2023, Celebrity Cruises introduced an array of Caribbean options for the Winter 2024-2025 season, available on 4 ships: Celebrity ApexCelebrity ConstellationCelebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Summit. Departing from 3 Florida ports – Port Canaveral in Central Florida, Port Tampa Bay in West Florida, and Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) in South Florida – travelers can select from over 40 new itineraries.

Catering to the diverse preferences of today's travelers, this new program provides a diverse range of experiences, ranging from revitalizing quick getaways to 7-night weekly cruises and extending to 9-night escapes. These voyages transport passengers to idyllic tropical destinations such as BelizeBiminiGrand CaymanSan Juan, and some itineraries even include visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

As a highlight of this program, Celebrity Cruises expands offerings from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, featuring more opportunities to set sail on two award-winning vessels: Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Summit. From October 23rd, 2024, to March 8th, 2025, travelers can partake in five new sailings on the Celebrity Apex, spanning 6 to 7 nights and calling at destinations like St. Maarten, San Juan, Grand Cayman, Mexico, and select sailings to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Perfect Day at CocoCay, a vibrant private island haven situated in The Bahamas, delivers a blend of beachfront bliss and sun-soaked thrills. This paradise offers pristine white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, and a bar serving tropical cocktails. Additionally, guests can bask in relaxation and seclusion at Coco Beach Club, featuring an infinity pool, a specialty restaurant, 20 exclusive overwater cabanas, and more. Debuting in January 2024, Perfect Day at CocoCay will introduce Hideaway Beach, an adults-only retreat boasting private cabanas and a new signature food venue.

Furthermore, from February 25th, 2025, to April 10th, 2025, Celebrity Summit presents 5 itineraries ranging from 5 to 9 nights, encompassing both Western and Eastern Caribbean destinations.

In an unprecedented move, Celebrity Cruises is also sailing from Port Canaveral in Orlando, offering 20 new itineraries from November 21st, 2024, to April 19th, 2025, aboard the Celebrity Equinox. With the majority of itineraries spanning 7 nights, passengers will have the chance to explore coveted Caribbean locales including the Bahamas, Belize, Grand Cayman, Mexico, San Juan, and St. Maarten. In time for the Spring Break season, two sailings on March 1st and March 15th, 2025, feature visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The Caribbean program from Port Tampa Bay is also revamped by Celebrity Cruises. Travelers can now opt for more frequent 6- to 7-night cruises aboard the Celebrity Constellation. This expanded program includes 4 new itineraries and a total of 14 sailings, spanning from January 2nd, 2025, to April 6th, 2025. The itineraries encompass destinations like Belize, Honduras, Key West, Mexico, and New Orleans (Port NOLA) during the Mardi Gras festivities scheduled for March 1st, 2025.

On November 17, 2025, officially debuts the fleet's newest member - Celebrity Xcel. Being the 5th/last EDGE-class ship, Xcel starts revenue operations with the 5-night "Maiden Voyage - Bahamas & Mexico". The 5-night itinerary (roundtrip from homeport Fort Lauderdale) visits Resorts World Bimini Port and Cozumel. Xcel's inaugural winter season is based on two alternating 7-day itineraries: Bahamas (Bimini), Mexico (Cozumel) plus Grand Cayman (George Town Harbour), and Dominicana (Puerto Plata)St Thomas USVI (Charlotte Amalie) plus St Maarten (Philipsburg).

Itinerarires 2025-2026

Celebrity's 2025-2026 program is the brand's "most ambitious" to date, grouping 800+ voyages with 290 destinations across 70 different countries and a fleet of 16 ships.

European offerings include Celebrity Apex, which once again homeports in Southampton UK, featuring Arctic Circle and Norwegian Fjords itineraries. Additionally, Celebrity Ascent sails 7- to 11-night Adriatic itineraries from Barcelona and Rome.

Celebrity Equinox joins Mediterranean routes with 9- and 10-night itineraries in the Italian Riviera, Greek Islands, France and Iberia (Spain and Portugal).

Celebrity Infinity and Celebrity Constellation operate 7-night Greece and Turkey sailings from Athens and 10-11-night Italy and Croatia roundtrips from Rome and Ravenna

Celebrity Eclipse from Amsterdam offers 12-13-night Best of Scandinavia/Baltic cruises.

Celebrity's "mini-season" in Iceland groups four 7-night circumnavigating voyages on Celebrity Silhouette in July and August 2025.

In the Caribbean, 9 ships are homeported in Florida (4 different ports) during winter, and 3 ships during summer, including Celebrity Xcel's 7-night roundtrips from Fort Lauderdale.

In Alaska are deployed 3 ships - Celebrity Edge from Seattle WA (second season) and Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit sailing between Vancouver BC and Seward AK.

Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice operate in Asia, offering the 12-night "Best of Japan" itinerary and the 12-night "Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Thailand" itinerary, respectively.

In South America, Celebrity Equinox is homeported in Buenos Aires.

Celebrity Edge's program is in the South Pacific/Australia and New Zealand.

In November 2023, Celebrity officially opened bookings for its 2025-2026 Alaska and Australia itineraries, featuring the esteemed Celebrity EdgeCelebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Summit. These premium cruise offerings aim to provide nature enthusiasts with exceptional experiences amid the pristine landscapes of Alaska, including glaciers and wildlife encounters. Celebrity Edge later extends exploration to Australia and New Zealand during the Winter season.

Alaska:

  • Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Summit are set to navigate the Alaskan waters.
  • The outward-facing design of Celebrity Edge ensures passengers enjoy proximity to nature and iconic views.
  • Adventurous options for a roundtrip through the picturesque Inside Passage are available.
  • Celebrity Summit offers a CruiseTour featuring a 2-6-Night land tour, providing insights into Alaska's interior.
  • CruiseTours include stays in authentic lodges, journeys on the Wilderness Express Railway, and exploration of Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali.

Australia and New Zealand:

  • Celebrity Edge returns for the Winter season, offering sailings through Sydney Harbour and New Zealand's majestic fjords.
  • Departure ports encompass SydneyAuckland, and Honolulu, with diverse itineraries catering to different preferences.
  • Highlights include round-trip sailings from Sydney Harbour and overnight stays at The Great Barrier Reef.
  • New Zealand itineraries encompass Milford, Dusky, and Doubtful Sounds, providing a harmonious blend of tradition and breathtaking scenery.

2024 weekend Caribbean itineraries

Celebrity Cruises is set to offer new 3- and 4-night weekend itineraries in the Caribbean for the first time in 2024. The cruise line deploys Celebrity ReflectionCelebrity Silhouette, and Celebrity Summit for these shorter cruises, aimed at providing guests with a break from their routines from Friday to Monday. Celebrity Reflection's 3-night 'Bahamas & Perfect Day' itinerary includes a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the private island owned by Celebrity Cruises’ parent company, Royal Caribbean Group.

Celebrity Beyond is spending her inaugural season in the Caribbean with a 6-night 'Western Caribbean and Perfect Day' voyage, including a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay starting in May 2024.

The latest addition to the Edge series, Celebrity Ascent, embarks on a 7-night 'Bahamas, Mexico, & Grand Cayman Caribbean' cruise starting from February 4, 2024. This itinerary, departing from Fort Lauderdale FL, includes port calls to Philipsburg in St. MaartenCharlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. Following this, Celebrity Ascent is due to reposition to the Mediterranean in April 2024 for her European debut.

Other ships like Celebrity ApexCelebrity ConstellationCelebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Summit also operate Caribbean itineraries for the winter 2024-2025 season. In addition to the Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises has announced new itineraries exploring Alaska onboard Celebrity Edge from June 2024 and cruises in Japan onboard Celebrity Millennium from August 2024.

Asia 2024 itineraries

The company's Asia 2024 program is based on two ships (Millennium and Solstice).

Starting September 2023, Millennium operates in Northeast and Southeast Asia visiting China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka. The 12-night itineraries visit ports like Klang-Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Lombok Indonesia, Mumbai India, Benoa Bali, as well as the maiden for Celebrity ports Hambantota (Sri Lanka) and Celukan Bawang (Bali Indonesia).

Starting November 2023, Solstice operates on 12-night Southeast Asia itineraries (to Thailand and Vietnam) departing from homeports Singapore and Hong Kong. Two 17-night Transpacific relocation voyages (RepositionCruises.com) are also offered - leaving from either Sydney NSW Australia or Honolulu Hawaii and visiting New Zealand and French Polynesia. Asian ports include Hanoi (Vietnam), Mumbai (India), Bangkok-Laem Chabang Thailand.

Celebrity's 2024 Caribbean season (8 ships) includes the 2023-built Celebrity Ascent, plus 2 more EDGE ships. Caribbean itineraries range between 4-12 nights.

Celebrity Ascent's maiden voyage departs on December 3, 2023. Homeported in Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida), Celebrity Ascent visits Eastern Caribbean ports Philipsburg St Maarten (Netherlands Antilles)St Thomas Island USVI (Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands)Puerto Plata-Amber Cove (Dominicana). Actually, Ascent starts passenger shipping operations in November 2023 as in mid-March 2023 were added two "preview cruises" (both roundtrips from Port Everglades). The previews depart on Nov 22nd (4-night to Cozumel) and on Nov 26th (3-night to Nassau).

Following the maiden voyage, Ascent's 7-night roundtrips depart from Terminal 25 (Port Everglades) on Sundays. Eastern Caribbean voyages visit San Juan (Puerto Rico), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), and Basseterre (St Kitts), while Western Caribbean voyages visit Nassau, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman.

Starting November 2023, Celebrity Apex is scheduled to embark on rotating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Setting sail from Fort Lauderdale guests can visit Eastern Caribbean islands, including San Juan, Philipsburg St Maarten, St Thomas, and Puerto Plata. Apex also takes guests to the Western Caribbean with calls in Key West, Grand Cayman (George Town), and Belize. In summer 2024 (May thru November) Apex will be homeported in Southampton (England UK) for 4- to 13-night roundtrips, replacing Silhouette.

Celebrity Beyond is due to sail on 9-, 10-, and 11-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean, including overnights in Oranjestad Aruba (Netherlands Antilles). A shorter voyage on Beyond takes passengers on a 6-night trip to Bimini Islands (Resorts World Bimini Bahamas, Bailey Town), the retreat of choice for Ernest Hemingway.

Celebrity Silhouette is returning to the Southern Caribbean and the Bahamas with itineraries ranging between 4-11 nights. For the first time since 2011, Silhouette will call at Scarborough, the main city on the island of Tobago.

For those wishing to celebrate Mardi Gras, Celebrity Constellation offers a 12-night voyage departing from Tampa (Florida USA) that starts with a double overnight in New Orleans (Port NOLA) for Fat Tuesday, prior to taking guests on a journey in Belize, Mexico (Cozumel), and Honduras.

Passengers looking for a short getaway will find it on Celebrity Summit, as she sails from PortMiami Florida on alternating 4- and 5-night Western Caribbean itineraries.

Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Reflection round out the offerings via 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Eastern Caribbean sailings, which includes calls at the Dutch island Kralendijk Bonaire (Netherlands Antilles), where the official bird of the isle, the flamingo, is spotted on many of the white-sand beaches.

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