Celebrity Cruises has unveiled 'The Bazaar,' a novel multi-level space aboard the upcoming Celebrity Xcel, designed to integrate shipboard and shore experiences. This 3-story venue will evolve daily, offering markets with local artisan products, destination-themed festivals, regionally inspired culinary experiences, and specialized entertainment. The aim is to provide guests with an immersive connection to the cultures of the ports visited during their voyage.
Initially, The Bazaar will feature four Caribbean destination-inspired festivals, each aligned with the ship's itinerary. These events will showcase local culture through food, crafts, music, dance, and live performances. As Celebrity Xcel transitions to European routes in 2026, The Bazaar will highlight Mediterranean festivals, markets, and culinary experiences.
On sea days, the Market at The Bazaar will host local artisans who will demonstrate their crafts and lead hands-on workshops. Offerings will vary based on the festival theme and may include activities such as rum and chocolate pairings, hot sauce tastings, and basket weaving. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs like Caribbean masks, Mexican leather hats, and embroidered items.
Culinary options within The Bazaar will reflect regional flavors. Mosaic, an open kitchen concept, will serve dishes inspired by the ship's destinations. Additionally, an industry-first Chef's Table experience will offer a multi-course menu crafted by Celebrity's culinary team, paired with selections from the cruise line's award-winning wine collection. The Chef's Studio at Mosaic, Celebrity's first destination-inspired cooking school, will allow guests to learn how to prepare regional dishes corresponding to each festival theme.
A new casual dining venue, Spice, will offer a rotating selection of bites inspired by the ship's itinerary. The seating area will feature floor-to-ceiling windows, providing guests with expansive sea and port views.
Celebrity Cruises is also launching Xcel Dream Makers, a global community where guests can vote on culinary, entertainment, and design choices for The Bazaar. Participants can help shape festival themes, activities, and menus by registering at the official website.
Celebrity Xcel's inaugural season is based on homeporting in Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale (Florida USA), offering 7-night Caribbean itineraries. In the summer of 2026, the ship will debut in Europe with 7- to 11-night Mediterranean sailings from Barcelona (Spain) and Piraeus-Athens (Greece), including overnight stays in Funchal (Madeira, Portugal).