The groundbreaking, new Celebrity Xcel has officially set sail, and introduces seven all-new experiences alongside beloved Edge Series favourites.
The fifth ship in Celebrity Cruises’ groundbreaking Edge Series, Xcel was created with the help of vacationers globally through the Xcel Dream Makers program, where participants played a key role in finalizing many elements of the vacation experience from culinary through to entertainment.
A few lucky members of the Vacations for Canadians team were onboard for the inaugural sailing, here are a few of their fave highlights from the new Celebrity Xcel.
Unlike anything else you will find at sea, The Bazaar intends to erase the line between ship and shore. Each day, the three-story space transforms, introducing new ways for guests to immerse themselves in the destinations called on during their sailing. Through food, activities and live music, The Bazaar blends the onboard and in-port experiences in an elevated, authentic and unique way.
Guests will also find two distinct, destination-inspired dining venues (Mosaic and Spice Cafe), The Market featuring local artisan products, four destination-inspired festivals specific to each itinerary, and unforgettable entertainment.
“Celebrity always has some of the best culinary offerings and these new concepts are no exception. There are some good new menu options, and Spice Cafe has really great build-your-own Mediterranean bowls,” says Vacations for Canadians Owner Teena Dowd.
“Wow, this space is something special. By day, it feels like a lively Caribbean market where you can wander through artisan stands and even make your own little souvenirs to bring home. At night, the whole place transforms. High-energy shows, incredible food and drinks inspired by the islands, and massive video walls that make you feel like you’re right in the heart of the Caribbean,” says Vacations for Canadians travel advisor Matt Houtby.
“The vibe of the Bazaar is energizing, with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of shows,” says Vacations for Canadians travel advisor Trisha Atwood. “Walking through the hallway to the Bazaar made it feel like a world of its own, filled with lively music, unique venues, and a constant sense of discovery—an experience full of excitement, colour, and unforgettable moments.”
With panoramic ocean views and a vibrant setting, Bora transports guests to the Mediterranean coast. The rooftop restaurant transitions from day-to-night, offering a perfect setting for guests to enjoy a lively brunch or an intimate dinner. By day, Bora’s upbeat space serves a “boozy brunch” featuring Mediterranean-inspired classics alongside classic brunch favourites, and customizable Bloody Marys with over-the-top garnishes from the Bloody Mary Bar.
At night, Bora’s chef-led table-side preparations and dishes designed to share set an intimate mood for dinner, with a backdrop of Greek ballads and Italian love songs.
The Celebrity Pool Club sets a new standard for all-day, all-night poolside experiences. You’ll want to stay in your sun-bed all day thanks to the new pool valet offering poolside chilled towels, card games, sunscreen and storage for personal items. The contemporary new rooftop design means more shading, for more time on the pool deck. For an even more elevated day in the sun, choose to go VIP for the day with enhanced private cabanas complete with dedicated service.
“Nice new touches have elevated the pool area, and there is lots of new entertainment,” says Dowd.
An all-day, all-night vibrant games room glittered with neon lights, Attic at The Club is an adult-oriented games lounge. Open 24/7, you can try your hand at a retro game like Pac-Man, NBA Showtime, Golden Tee and more. Activities including pool, darts, foosball and shuffleboard invite guests to make memories with friends, old and new.
“The Attic is a great new use of the space, perfect for hanging out and playing games, Dowd says. And, be sure to visit the photo booth at night; it opens to a secret speakeasy!”
“The Attic is pure fun! With classic arcade games alongside modern favourites, it’s the perfect spot to relive nostalgic moments with your travel companions,” says Atwood.
This is Celebrity Cruises’ first-ever Celebrity Flagship store. It’s part museum and part interactive retail experience, while celebrating all things Celebrity. Answer trivia questions on the interactive screens, learn a few insider facts, browse the historical artifacts and vintage collectibles. A wide range of customizable items can be engraved, embroidered or printed, including water bottles, cocktail kits, keychains, caps, and robes. Plus, Celebrity Flagship will stock one-of-a-kind Celebrity products only available on Celebrity Xcel.
“This is really cool to see the history of Celebrity onboard the ship. It’s the first of its kind, and especially interesting for Celebrity devotees and collectors,” says Dowd.
There are more ways to restore than ever before at Celebrity’s most expansive spa yet. The Spa on Celebrity Xcel features Celebrity’s first-ever Hydra Room, the newest of eight therapeutic experiences in the Thermal Suite, inviting guests to indulge in a water-focused wellness experience. Spa goers can also soak up their daily dose of sunshine at The Spa’s new outdoor Vitamin D Deck. Settle in and enjoy sweeping views from the front of the ship, enjoy the restorative ocean breeze from stylish seating, and refresh with a non-alcoholic beverage.
“The SEA Thermal Suite (the evolution of Celebrity’s Persian Garden) is something you absolutely should not miss, it’s incredibly relaxing,” says Ayoup. “And, my wife tried the new hydro therapy circuit and raved about the experience. She said it was the best spa day ever.”
“From the Salt Room, Hammam Room and Infrared Sauna Room, to the Rainfall Water Therapy and Hydra Room Soak, this spa includes everything,” adds Houtby. “Whether your part of Aqua Class or just purchasing a Spa Pass, its worth every second.”
The most expansive entertainment offering to date boasts more variety and more performers delivering endless entertainment all day long. Three unforgettable new shows will be on offer in The Theatre, and two new interactive shows are staged in The Club, along with immersive new dance parties, exciting new activities, live music and unexpected surprises throughout the day.
Celebrity Xcel is sailing her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale, offering seven-night itineraries alternating between The Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. In Summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel will set sail on her inaugural European season for seven-to 11-night Mediterranean journeys out of Barcelona and Athens, including all-new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal.
Ready to set sail on the all-new Celebrity Xcel?
