ONBOARD CELEBRITY XCEL — The brand new Celebrity Xcel has set sail from Ft. Lauderdale’s Port Everglades with much fanfare – and with plenty of Canadian travel industry friends onboard.

Everyone joining the Nov. 16-18 ship naming celebration sailing has the chance to preview industry-first cultural concepts like The Bazaar, blending guests’ onboard and in-port experiences through food, activities and live music. More than a few Bloody Marys have been poured at Celebrity Cruises’ first-ever brunch spot, and meanwhile others are chilling out at cozy cabanas at The Celebrity Pool Club.

Other new spaces onboard Celebrity Xcel include rooftop dining at Bora, and the beautiful and sunny Vitamin D Deck, and Attic at The Club, billed as an adult-oriented games lounge, an all-day, all-night vibrant games room glittered with neon lights and open 24/7.

Celebrity Xcel is the fifth ship in the cruise line’s popular Edge Series. The ship 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.

Laura Hodges Bethge, President, Celebrity Cruises

“THE COOLEST DAY EVER!”

Travel industry professionals taking part in the special sailing this week are experiencing these innovations alongside Celebrity’s leadership team and fellow VIPs, with special access to ceremonial events and celebrations.

“Who we are as a brand is built on stylish design, and elevated experiences, and mostly the joy of connection, and they come to life through the most talented, passionate crew at sea,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President, Celebrity Cruises, in her remarks at the ship naming ceremony. “All of this is complemented by the most expansive onboard entertainment program yet. And this new Pool Club turns our resort deck into the coolest day ever!”

She added that Celebrity Xcel is her second ship naming ceremony as president of the cruise line. “And I have to say it’s even more special the second time around. Being here with all of you is like a family reunion, a celebration and a launch party all in one.”

Thanking the team that helped bring Celebrity Xcel to life, including Jason Liberty, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group, she said: “Thank you for your dedication and your heart and for living the Celebrity way.”

And for the traditional blessing for the new ship, Hodges Bethge said, “may your guests forever be inspired by your beauty, your warmth and wonder,” before adding: “There’s so much more to come, and we’re just getting started.”

Celebrity Xcel’s inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale offers 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 its inaugural European season with seven-to 11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens. More details are at CelebrityCruises.com.