Celebrity Xcel Preview

There’s still much to uncover about this massive ship debuting in late 2025

The Celebrity Xcel is just one of many cruise ships set to debut in 2025, alongside Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua, and MSC World America.

Let’s just say that 2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for cruises, with expected record-breaking milestones across the industry. That’s great news, considering the pandemic dealt a significant blow to the market, and most companies are now bouncing back stronger than ever. This is also true for the Xcel, which will be Celebrity Cruises’ fifth Edge-class ship, boasting a capacity of 3,260 passengers and set to launch this November.

The Xcel will have home ports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Barcelona, offering itineraries focused on the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

So, what do we know about the Celebrity Xcel so far?

A shroud of mystery

Celebrity Xcel outside.webp — Celebrity Cruises©

Katina Athanasiou-Soy, the line’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Services, recently stated that “Celebrity Xcel will introduce seven new experiences that live up to her name in every way.” However, Celebrity has yet to reveal exactly what these new experiences will be. Is she hinting at a big Broadway-style show, a new restaurant, or perhaps just a small kiosk by the main pool?

The official Celebrity Xcel website offers a few hints about what’s in store, with “coming soon” appearing in specific sections of the ship’s layout. We put on our detective glasses, channeled our inner Sherlock Holmes, and pieced together what we believe could be the eXciting new additions.

Here’s what we think will be brand new aboard the Xcel:

A brand-new restaurant on the top deck
An expanded adults-only pool
A new gift shop
Additional shopping options
A new bar on the bow
Enhanced spa amenities

The fun thing? Celebrity has launched an initiative where fans can actually influence what’s going to be new on the ship. The initiative is called the “Dream Makers”, and you can access a special website to share your ideas. I can finally join the newsletter and share my idea for a submarine inside the cruise ship, where you can enjoy a drink while being actually undersea. Actually, I don’t think they will like this, hm.

Old favorites are back

Celebrity Cruises magic carpet.webp — Celebrity Cruises is well known for the Magic Carpet - Celebrity Cruises©

The Xcel will also feature several amenities that have been a big hit on previous Celebrity ships. Returning favorites include the Magic Carpet, the Theatre at the bow, and the Eden Restaurant at the stern.

The Magic Carpet is quickly becoming a signature feature of Celebrity Cruises. This innovative moving platform, attached to the side of the ship, transforms into various venues throughout the day, offering unique experiences at different times.

Celebrity Xcel Itineraries

It’s important to note that the Celebrity Xcel will not arrive in North America until 2026. For its inaugural season, the ship will sail exclusively in Europe, with itineraries exploring the Mediterranean Sea. Highlights include Celebrity Cruises’ first-ever overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal. These inaugural sailings will range from seven to 11 nights, departing from Barcelona in Spain and Athens in Greece.

Then it’s time to travel to the USA! From 2026 to 2027, the Xcel will make its way to the Caribbean, sailing out of Miami. These routes will feature seven-night itineraries with stops in Mexico, the Bahamas, and Grand Cayman.