The arrival of Celebrity Apex at Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida) marked a significant advancement in Florida’s maritime tourism sector, inaugurating the vessel’s first winter season of 7-night voyages to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.
As the newest member of Celebrity Cruises’ homeported fleet, Apex succeeds Celebrity Equinox, which established the line’s presence at the port during the previous year. The transition reflects both continuity and expansion, underscoring Florida’s role as a leading embarkation point for Caribbean itineraries.
The vessel’s maiden call was commemorated with a formal plaque exchange aboard ship, conducted by Canaveral Port Authority Commissioner Kevin Markey and Apex’s master, Captain Panagiotis Skylogiannis. The ceremony, a maritime tradition symbolizing partnership and goodwill, affirmed the growing relationship between Celebrity Cruises and one of the world’s busiest passenger ports.
Celebrity Apex, part of the line’s Edge-class fleet, brings a new level of sophistication to the region’s cruise offerings through its advanced design, sustainability features, and high-end amenities. Its deployment represents a strategic decision following the strong commercial and operational performance of Celebrity Equinox during its inaugural season from Port Canaveral. The move is expected to strengthen the cruise line’s presence on Florida’s Atlantic coast and deliver an enhanced range of luxury itineraries to travelers seeking departures closer to home.
During the vessel’s welcoming ceremony, port officials noted that the collaboration with Celebrity Cruises had already produced measurable economic benefits. The continuation of the partnership through Apex’s deployment was described as an extension of that success, promising to sustain growth in passenger traffic and regional tourism revenue.
Port Canaveral continues to serve as one of Florida’s foremost economic engines, supporting employment and contributing substantially to the state’s visitor economy. The port’s strategic advantage lies in its accessibility—approximately three-quarters of its cruise guests arrive by car, emphasizing its strength as a drive-to-cruise hub. This convenience fosters pre- and post-cruise tourism across Central Florida, linking maritime travel with the state’s broader hospitality and leisure industries.
Recognized as the world’s second-busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral’s modern infrastructure and proximity to Orlando’s attractions have made it an essential node in the global cruise network. With the addition of Celebrity Apex, the port further diversifies its cruise portfolio, combining contemporary luxury with operational efficiency. The ship’s arrival not only reinforces Port Canaveral’s maritime prominence but also advances Florida’s standing as a central gateway to the Caribbean and a leader in international cruise tourism.