Celebrity Xcel arrived in November 2025 as the fifth Edge-class ship from Celebrity Cruises. This ship takes the Edge-class blueprint and adds new features that push modern cruise design forward.
The Xcel brings refined spaces, innovative dining concepts, and technology-forward staterooms to Caribbean itineraries now, with Mediterranean sailings planned for 2026. If you're considering a Celebrity cruise, here's what makes this ship worth your attention.
The Edge Class Foundation
Celebrity's Edge class changed cruise ship design when it launched. The Xcel builds on that foundation with the signature features you expect from this ship class.The Magic Carpet remains the most distinctive element. This platform moves up and down the ship's exterior, spanning multiple decks. During the day, it functions as a tender platform when you're visiting ports. At night, it transforms into an open-air bar and dining space with direct ocean views and no obstructions between you and the water.
Infinite Veranda staterooms give you control over your cabin space. Press a button and the window drops halfway down while the door slides back. You get balcony access when you want it, or you can close everything up for climate control and a larger interior space. The flexibility works well: you adjust based on weather and your preference at any moment.
The Grand Plaza sits at the center of the ship as a multi-deck atrium. Martini Bar anchors this space, and you'll find live music, art installations, and spontaneous performances throughout the day and evening.
What's New on Xcel
The Xcel introduces features that separate it from earlier Edge-class ships. These additions refine the experience and add options you won't find on Edge, Apex, Beyond, or Ascent.The Bazaar creates an immersive destination area that changes with each sailing region. You'll find regionally-inspired food vendors, artisan markets, virtual reality experiences, and pop-up performances. The concept blurs the line between ship and shore: the space adapts to reflect where you're sailing.
Bora brings new outdoor dining with Mediterranean design elements and a terrace positioned for sunset views. The menu focuses on fresh ingredients and lighter fare suited to warm-weather destinations.
The buffet moves beyond standard cruise ship presentation. Dedicated stations serve distinct cuisines. A full carvery, seafood displays, fresh bakery items, and a chocolate fountain sit alongside international options. The setup feels more like a curated food hall than a traditional buffet line.
Staterooms and Suites
The Infinite Veranda cabins offer generous space for an interior-meets-balcony category. You get ample storage, modern fixtures, and the convertible veranda system. The rooms feel larger than standard cabins because of the flexibility in how you configure the space.
Sunset Suites include a private alcove with expanded ocean views. The separate sitting area gives you space to spread out beyond just the bedroom.
One consistent criticism across guest reviews: the mattresses run extremely firm. Multiple travelers describe the beds as rock-hard with budget hotel quality. If you prefer softer sleeping surfaces, request additional mattress toppers during booking or at embarkation.
The Retreat offers suite guests exclusive access to a two-story sun deck with premium loungers, a private restaurant, and dedicated concierge service. This area stays quieter than the main pool deck.
Dining Beyond the Buffet
Main dining rooms serve multi-course meals with rotating menus. Specialty restaurants require additional fees but expand your options significantly.Le Voyage takes you through a French-inspired menu with regional wines. Fine Cut Steakhouse delivers premium beef cuts and classic steakhouse sides. Tuscan Restaurant focuses on Italian cuisine with family-style service options.
Le Grand Bistro offers casual French fare near the Grand Plaza. Eden Restaurant combines unique ingredients with artistic plating and changes its menu and atmosphere from breakfast through late-night dining.
Room service runs 24 hours with both complimentary and premium menu options.
Entertainment and Activities
The Attic dedicates space specifically to adult entertainment. You'll find golf simulators, darts, karaoke rooms, and photo booths. This venue concentrates activities that might otherwise spread across the ship into one accessible location.The main theater presents production shows with staging technology that moves beyond traditional cruise theater setups. Performances include music, dance, and immersive storytelling.
Table-side magicians work the dining rooms and bars during evening hours. Candlelit acoustic concerts pop up in unexpected spaces. The entertainment schedule shifts daily: check your daily planner or the Celebrity app for timing and locations.
The main pool deck maintains high energy with music, activities, and bar service. If you want quieter outdoor space, head to the Retreat sun deck (suite guests) or find spots near the Rooftop Garden.
The Rooftop Garden creates an open-air escape with real grass, trees, and daytime programming that ranges from silent disco to outdoor movies.
The Service Experience
Embarkation moves quickly. Most travelers report smooth boarding with minimal wait times. Staff receive consistent praise for attentiveness and helpfulness throughout sailings.Excursion coordination shows more variability. Some guests report excellent shore experiences while others note timing issues or experiences that didn't match advertised details: particularly around beach time at port stops. Verify excursion specifics before booking and allow flexibility in your expectations.
Turndown service, cabin stewards, and dining room staff maintain the elevated service standards Celebrity aims for across its fleet.
Who This Ship Suits
The Xcel works well for couples and adult travelers who prefer modern design over traditional cruise ship aesthetics. The contemporary art, clean lines, and sophisticated spaces appeal to travelers who appreciate thoughtful design details.If you prioritize family activities and kids' programming, other cruise lines offer more dedicated family zones. Celebrity focuses on adult experiences and refined spaces.
Travelers who want variety in dining will find enough options to avoid repetition on week-long sailings. The specialty restaurants, when added to included dining venues, create sufficient diversity.
The ship's size: accommodating just over 3,200 guests at double occupancy: sits in the sweet spot between mega-ships and boutique vessels. You get amenities and options without feeling lost in crowds.
Current and Upcoming Itineraries
Celebrity Xcel currently sails Caribbean routes from Florida ports. Typical itineraries include stops at Puerto Plata, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and other Caribbean destinations on seven-night roundtrip sailings.In 2026, the ship repositions to the Mediterranean for European season sailings. Routes will include Western Mediterranean ports and Greek Isles itineraries.
Check Celebrity discussions for real traveler experiences and current itinerary details.
Practical Considerations
Book specialty dining before you sail. Popular restaurants fill quickly, especially on shorter sailings. You can reserve through the Celebrity app once your booking is confirmed.The Infinite Veranda staterooms cost less than traditional balconies but give you outdoor access. If you value balcony time but want to save money, this category delivers good value.
Pack layers for air-conditioned indoor spaces. The ship maintains cool temperatures inside, which contrasts with warm Caribbean weather outdoors.
Internet packages work for basic browsing and messaging. Streaming and video calls require premium packages and may still experience limitations.
Final Assessment
Celebrity Xcel refines the Edge-class experience with thoughtful additions. The Bazaar and Bora give you new spaces to explore. The elevated buffet improves casual dining. The foundational Edge-class features: Magic Carpet, Infinite Verandas, and contemporary design: remain strong selling points.The mattress firmness issue affects enough guests to warrant mention. Request modifications if you know you prefer softer sleeping surfaces.
The ship delivers modern luxury without excessive formality. You get sophisticated spaces, diverse dining, and elevated service in a contemporary package. For travelers who appreciate design-forward cruising and adult-focused experiences, the Xcel represents Celebrity's current best offering.
Share your Celebrity Xcel experiences and questions with fellow cruisers in our Celebrity forum.