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I’ve got something truly exciting to share — I got a first look at Celebrity Cruises®' newest ship, Celebrity Xcel, and I’m bringing you along for the ride!
We stepped aboard Celebrity Xcel on Sunday in Miami, and I can honestly say this extraordinary ship is setting a new benchmark for modern luxury at sea. As the latest addition to the award-winning Edge Series, Xcel brings together innovative design, world-class dining, beautifully crafted accommodations, and immersive entertainment in a way that feels both sophisticated and wonderfully relaxed. From the dramatic, outward-facing architecture and stylish open-air spaces to the cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated throughout the ship, every detail has been carefully crafted to elevate the cruising experience.
Whether it’s unwinding on the reimagined Resort Deck, enjoying exceptional cuisine in one of the many distinctive restaurants, or discovering the elegance of the suites and staterooms — complete with those signature Infinite Verandas — Celebrity Xcel offers an experience that feels both indulgent and refreshingly contemporary.
From the very moment I stepped aboard, I could feel it — this ship is truly something special. Every space seems to strike that perfect balance between elegance and excitement, with sweeping ocean views, beautifully designed lounges, world-class dining, and that unmistakable Celebrity touch that makes everything feel just a little more refined.
One experience that immediately stood out to me was The Bazaar. This vibrant, multi-level hub brings each destination to life with lively festival-style energy, bustling market-inspired spaces, and plenty of irresistible culinary discoveries. It’s a full sensory immersion — in the best possible way — and a place where you can’t help but get swept up in the atmosphere.
I hope you’re hungry, because on Celebrity Xcel every meal feels like a celebration in its own right. I was genuinely blown away by the variety and quality of the food on board. Whether I was settling into the elegant surroundings of Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud for a spot of fine dining, or enjoying the fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Bora, the gorgeous new open-air restaurant nestled in the Rooftop Garden, flavour was always the star of the show.
From leisurely brunches with sweeping ocean views to indulgent five-course dinners that linger long in the memory, every dining experience felt thoughtfully crafted and beautifully executed. It’s safe to say my taste buds were very happy indeed.
I had the honour of attending the naming ceremony of Celebrity Xcel, and it was a magical moment from start to finish. From her striking, modern design to the warm, refined hospitality on board, every detail spoke of modern luxury. But what made the occasion even more special was her godmother, the remarkable Brazilian chef Janaína Torres, crowned the World’s Best Female Chef in 2024.
Janaína is not only a trailblazer in the culinary world — she’s deeply committed to zero-waste cooking, celebrating her heritage with locally sourced ingredients, and creating food that tells a story. During the christening, she carried out the traditional champagne-pouring ritual, symbolically blessing the ship for her maiden voyage.
It felt as though her spirit and values are woven into the ship itself: just like her cuisine, Celebrity Xcel weaves together culture, innovation and connection. The naming celebration was more than an event — it was a declaration of what this ship stands for: elegance, creativity, and warmth.
The whole experience left me deeply inspired — not only by the ship’s beauty, but by the meaningful partnership between Celebrity Cruises and Chef Torres. It already feels like Xcel has a soul, and I can’t wait to see her in action on the high seas.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I discovered that Celebrity Xcel has an entirely different personality after dark — and it’s nothing short of spectacular. The ship absolutely comes alive in the evenings, offering a mix of entertainment and atmosphere that kept me wandering from venue to venue in wide-eyed excitement.
The Theatre quickly became one of my favourite spots. The performances are genuinely jaw-dropping — think cutting-edge staging, incredible vocalists, and choreography that wouldn’t feel out of place in the West End. Each show felt fresh, modern, and brilliantly produced, and I found myself completely swept up in the energy of it all.
But the entertainment doesn’t end there. Cocktails beneath the stars on the open deck, live bands setting the tone in the lounges, and late-night music that practically insists you get up and dance — there’s always something happening. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed evening with a perfectly mixed drink or a lively night out with new friends, Xcel caters to every pace.
If you’re seeking a cruise that effortlessly blends modern luxury, exceptional dining, captivating entertainment, and unforgettable destinations, Celebrity Xcel is the perfect choice. From the moment you step on board, it’s clear that this ship has been designed to make every journey extraordinary.
Having experienced it myself, I can tell you that the attention to detail, the range of experiences, and the sheer comfort on offer make it unlike any other cruise. For any questions or to start planning your own adventure aboard Celebrity Xcel, give the Cruise Concierge a call on 0808 274 9725 — trust me, you won’t regret it.
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