Celebrity Cruises has expanded the deployment schedule for its forthcoming vessel, Celebrity Xcel, by adding a four-night preview voyage ahead of the ship’s official inaugural sailing. This adjustment provides passengers an opportunity to experience the ship’s features in advance of its maiden voyage.
Originally scheduled to commence service with an inaugural voyage departing Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale FL, on November 18, 2025, the ship’s itinerary now includes an additional sailing departing on November 9, 2025. Guests already booked on the November 18 departure have been offered the option to transfer their reservations to the earlier voyage, retaining their existing suite or a comparable stateroom. Celebrity Cruises has indicated that any fare discrepancies resulting from this change will be resolved through appropriate refunds. Passengers must finalize their decision by May 8, 2025.
Following these initial sailings, Celebrity Xcel will operate a series of 7-night Caribbean itineraries, alternating among ports in the Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. These routes are designed to offer a blend of beach destinations and culturally significant locations.
Subsequent to the Caribbean season, Celebrity Xcel will reposition to Europe. There, the vessel will operate 7 to 11-night itineraries departing from Barcelona and Athens (Piraeus), focusing on Mediterranean ports of call. The European program reflects an industry-wide trend toward offering longer voyages that combine leisure with cultural exploration.
The addition of extended European sailings aligns with Celebrity Cruises’ broader strategy to meet increased demand for destination-immersive experiences. The deployment of Celebrity Xcel supports the brand’s positioning in the premium cruise market, offering modern amenities, upscale accommodations, and a diversified itinerary profile designed to appeal to both Caribbean and European markets.
Celebrity Cruises describes Celebrity Xcel as a major evolution within its fleet, intended to deliver a combination of luxury accommodations, new onboard spaces, and a broadened range of dining and entertainment options.