Celebrity Xcel: A Fresh Take on Premium Cruising

Something is exciting about the launch of a new cruise ship, especially when it builds on a foundation people already love.

Celebrity Xcel, the fifth ship in Celebrity’s Edge Series, sets sail in November 2025. If you’re already familiar with this series, you know what to expect: innovative spaces, a modern design aesthetic, and a more elevated kind of cruising. 

I’ve spent time on Edge Series ships and spoken with travelers who come back to Celebrity again and again. Xcel feels like the next evolution of something that was already working—adding new venues, refreshed layouts, and that unmistakable “you’re on vacation” feeling that Celebrity does so well.

First, What Makes the Edge Series Special?

When Celebrity introduced the Edge Series, it marked a noticeable shift away fromtraditional cruise layouts. These ships feel more open, more modern, and more intentionally designed. Think bright interiors, natural light, smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, and a focus on art, wellness, and food.

The public areas are designed for people who appreciate clean lines and smart design—but who also want spaces that feel welcoming, not intimidating. It's one of the things that makes Celebrity stand out to travel professionals looking for thoughtfully designed ships. It’s an aesthetic that pairs well with Celebrity’s well-earned reputation for friendly, polished service.

What’s New on Celebrity Xcel?

While Xcel keeps many Edge Series favorites—the Retreat for suite guests, the Magic Carpet, Infinite Verandas, and multi-venue dining—it also introduces a few new features worth knowing about.

The Bazaar is one of the most talked-about additions. It’s a reimagined take on the Eden space that fans of Edge-class ships might remember, but with a more flexible, open-concept layout. During the day, it might host casual coffee chats or pop-up tastings. At night, it transitions into something more social and ambient. It’s the kind of space that invites you to linger.

Then there’s Bora, a brand-new alfresco dining venue offering both brunch and dinner service. One of the details people are already excited about? A custom Bloody Mary bar at brunch. Bora embraces the idea of casual luxury—dining that feels relaxed and special at the same time, all with sea breezes and panoramic views.

Choosing Your Balcony: Infinite vs. Sunset Verandas

One of the most noticeable changes in the Edge Series is the Infinite Verandah stateroom. Instead of a traditional step-out balcony, the room itself extends to the edge of the ship, and a large window drops down at the touch of a button to create an open-air experience.

Some guests love this design—it makes the room feel larger and keeps ocean views front and center. Others prefer the feel of a traditional balcony. For that, the Sunset Verandah staterooms offer a great alternative. Located at the aft of the ship, these staterooms feature a classic balcony layout with more depth than standard balconies and a prime location for sailawa views.

If you’re on the fence, it’s worth thinking about how much time you typically spend on your balcony and what kind of space makes you feel most relaxed.

A Ship Designed for Slower Days and Longer Conversations

Celebrity Xcel leans into a slower, more thoughtful rhythm. You won’t find water slides or big arcade zones here—but you will find curated spaces that encourage connection. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends who want to enjoy time together without a packed schedule.

One thing returning Celebrity cruisers often appreciate—and new guests quickly notice—is the laid-back approach to entertainment and onboard scheduling. There’s no need to set an alarm just to reserve seats at a show or book your comedy night a week in advance.

Celebrity keeps things flexible. You can decide to catch live music in the Grand Plaza, stop by a performance in the theater, or enjoy a cocktail with ocean views—all without needing a rigid plan. It’s entertainment that fits your vacation schedule, not the other way around.

Dining is a huge part of that. From casual bites to multi-course specialty meals, Xcel continues Celebrity’s focus on fresh ingredients and diverse flavors. Restaurants feel like actual restaurants—not buffets in disguise—and the service matches the setting.

And whether you’re tucked into a nook at Café al Bacio with a cappuccino, lounging in the Rooftop Garden, or enjoying the Moroccan-inspired Sunset Bar, the ship’s atmosphere always feels designed to give you room to breathe.

Sailing Soon: When You Can Board Xcel

Celebrity Xcel launches from Fort Lauderdale in November 2025, with two early sailings that offer a first look at the ship:

- Preview Sailing: November 9, 2025 – a 4-night itinerary that gives a taste of what’s new. I'll be sailing on this one myself to get the first-hand look at the new spaces.

- Inaugural Sailing: November 18, 2025 – the official 7-night debut sailing

These early cruises are popular with Celebrity fans and travelers looking to try something new before the word gets out. If you’re interested in seeing a ship at its freshest, this is the time.

Final Thoughts: Is Celebrity Xcel Right for You?

If you’ve cruised before and found yourself wishing for fewer crowds, better design, or a little more peace and quiet, Xcel might be a great match. It doesn’t try to do everything—it just does a few things very, very well.

That includes creating spaces that feel upscale but never formal, service that’s attentive without being intrusive, and a vibe that encourages you to slow down. Whether you’re new to Celebrity or already loyal to the line, Xcel offers something both familiar and fresh.

For those who enjoy having insider info before a ship even sets sail, it’s definitely one to keep an eye on.

If you’d like help comparing stateroom options or understanding what makes Xcel different from other ships in the Celebrity fleet, you can always reach out. As a cruise professional and part of a modern travel agency, I’m happy to share what I know.

Request a custom quote or ask a question here: https://bit.ly/m/ShellyBishopMTP

Shelly Bishop

Travel Advisor

sbishop@moderntravelpros.com

727-460-4365