ONBOARD CELEBRITY XCEL — Celebrity Cruises is enjoying an exciting phase as it wraps up a successful year.

Sailing full speed into the final stretch of 2025, the company is riding a wave fuelled by strong sales and celebrating the introduction of its fifth ship in the innovative Edge Series.

Indeed, the future outlook remains optimistic.

With the debut of Celebrity Xcel, dubbed ‘the happy place of vacationers,’ there’s now a ship that combines the beloved elements of the award-winning Edge series with new spaces and experiences that set it apart in the market.

As Laura Hodges Bethge, President, Celebrity Cruises, best described Celebrity Xcel: “It has the intimacy and elevated service of a small ship, with the excitement and offerings of a large ship.”

CANADA STRONG YEAR OVER YEAR

Travelweek recently joined Xcel’s naming voyage, accompanied by about 60 Canadian travel professionals.

While onboard, Travelweek caught up with Allan Brooks, Celebrity’s National Director for Canada, who shared that bookings from Canada are exceeding expectations, showing consistent year-over-year growth, particularly with the launch of Xcel and new enhancements.

Brooks also noted a significant shift in travel preferences. ”Europe and Asia have become very popular destinations for 2025, more so than in the past, while the Caribbean, where Xcel will sail, is also seeing a strong demand.”

Brooks acknowledged that consumer sentiment is increasingly focused on value and making thoughtful choices. “We fit in well with all our inclusions: beverage packages, WiFi, onboard credit, and savings. It is really resonating well with the Canadian market.”

Brooks added that Celebrity Xcite is on the way, the cruise line’s sixth Edge Series ship, plus the company’s much-anticipated new river cruises, “marking an exciting new venture for us that will round out our product offerings. It’s a fascinating time to be with this brand, and I believe that we are at the crest of a new wave.”

Continuing this positive momentum, Brooks proudly points out that his field sales team is currently the best in North America, thanks to collaboration with their Canadian travel partners.

He also recognized Michele Croft, Celebrity’s field sales manager for Eastern Ontario, who won a Sky Suite stay on this recent sailing for securing the most Xcel bookings, as part of an internal competition. It was a proud achievement for both Croft and the team.

INSIGHT FROM THE TOP

What’s next for the Royal Caribbean Group?

According to Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, there are many exciting developments on the horizon, including the launch of a new private destination in Nassau in the coming weeks, and the expansion of the cruise line’s destination portfolio.

“We are consistently dreaming and innovating to as far a point as possible, then delivering on these incredible vacation experiences responsibly,” said Liberty.

As guest preferences continue to evolve, the company remains committed to staying informed about consumer insights.

“We are always looking for new ways to delight our guests. We are insatiable in our desire to innovate new products and experiences for our guests,” said Hodges Bethge.

When travel advisors seek fresh angles to pitch to clients, Hodges Bethge recommends focusing on Celebrity Xcel’s seven new experiences, particularly The Bazaar, which she describes as “exceptionally special.”

Other selling points include Celebrity’s elevated hospitality, referred to internally as ‘the Celebrity way.’ This reflects the way the Celebrity team cares both for guests and each other.

“Our job is to go above and beyond in the way we make you feel,” she added.

MARQUEE EXPERIENCES

For cruise clients seeking a new-ship experience with out-of-the-box offerings, Xcel has much to offer, with many firsts in the cruise industry.

The Bazaar truly is a standout. Formerly known as Eden, this multi-level sensory space blurs the line between ship and shore, bringing the destination on board. According to Hodges Bethge, “the dedicated area delivers a true, authentic experience, including dancers and the crew members from various parts of the Caribbean.”

The Bazaar is more than just a dining venue; it captures the essence of the shore to the ship through entertainment, shopping and culinary experiences that reflect the destinations being visited. Over 80% of the goods sold in the market are made by local artisans from these locations.

The Bazaar is also home to two new restaurants: Mosaic, which offers global flavours; and Spice, a casual dining concept that combines the authenticity of the destinations with stunning views.

Also new on the dining scene is Bora, a rooftop al fresco restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, ever-changing views and unlimited Bloody Marys. It’s open during the day for brunch, and at night, the space transforms into a live-music venue, with chefs preparing dishes tableside under a starry sky.

At the heart of Celebrity Cruises’ focus is its exceptional culinary scene, and this newest ship is no exception. The company has appointed Janina Torres, the 2024 World’s Best Female Chef, as the ship’s godmother, honouring her for her innovative approach to cooking.

As guests find endless ways to relax and explore, other new innovative experiences include the Celebrity Pool Club, featuring elevated pool valet service and VIP cabanas, along with a first-ever Hydra room, a water-focused wellness experience and an outdoor Vitamin D deck.

On the entertainment side, the Attic At The Club provides an all-day, all-night vibrant games room glittered with neon lights. Guests can also enjoy the nostalgia of retro games such as Pac- Man.

And if you’re craving a little shopping, the ship has introduced the first-ever Celebrity flagship store. This unique retail experience doubles as an interactive exhibit celebrating all things Celebrity.

Winding down with evening entertainment, the Xcel will showcase three new theatre performances exclusive to the ship, along with an ‘IYKYK’ (‘If You Know, You Know’)- a hidden speakeasy with an undisclosed location (you’ll have to discover for yourself).

SHIP FACTS & ITINERARIES

Celebrity Xcel is the fifth ship in the Edge class, featuring 1,646 staterooms that include 198 suites, 163 AquaClass staterooms, and 299 Concierge Class cabins, most of which have balconies.

The ship offers 15 restaurants, including four main dining rooms, as well as exclusive options like Luminae and Blu for Retreat guests, alongside 12 bars and lounges.

Currently, Celebrity Xcel is sailing its inaugural season with seven-night Caribbean itineraries departing from Fort Lauderdale, and a European season is set to launch in summer 2026.