Celebrity Xcel & Xcite: New Cruise Ships Revealed! [First Look & Tour] (2025)

Get ready to set sail in style because the cruise world just got a whole lot more exciting! Celebrity Cruises has officially welcomed its newest addition, Celebrity Xcel, and dropped a bombshell by announcing the upcoming Celebrity Xcite. But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: these aren’t just any ships—they’re part of the cutting-edge Edge Class, designed to redefine luxury at sea. Let’s dive into the details you won’t want to miss.

Earlier today, at the iconic Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, Celebrity Cruises took delivery of the Celebrity Xcel, marking another milestone for the brand. But the real surprise came during the steel-cutting ceremony for its sister ship, Celebrity Xcite, where the name was unveiled to a select audience of executives, travel advisors, and media representatives, including Cruise Critic. While Xcel is set to debut later this year, Xcite is slated to make waves in 2028. And this is the part most people miss: these ships aren’t just about size—they’re about creating unforgettable experiences.

Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, stating, ‘Today is incredibly exciting as we take delivery of Xcel.’ Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of Celebrity Cruises, also oversees Royal Caribbean and Silversea Cruises, making this a significant moment for the entire family of brands. Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, echoed the sentiment, adding, ‘We’re thrilled to welcome guests aboard next month.’ But here’s a thought: with such high expectations, will these ships live up to the hype? Let us know what you think in the comments!

Celebrity Xcel, the fifth ship in the Edge Class, is a marvel in itself, accommodating up to 3,260 passengers. Its maiden voyage is scheduled for November 18, with a preview sailing on November 9. The five-day inaugural journey will depart from Fort Lauderdale, stopping in Cozumel, Mexico, before transitioning to seven-night Caribbean cruises and eventually heading to the Mediterranean in April 2026. But here’s the controversial part: while some cruisers love the idea of destination-focused itineraries, others argue it limits spontaneity. What’s your take?

During the shipyard event, guests were treated to an exclusive tour of Xcel, highlighting its unique features. One standout was the pool deck art, featuring a larger-than-life sculpture of a seated monkey cradling a smaller one, with two additional monkeys hanging from the pillars. This playful design follows the tradition of eye-catching art on Edge-class ships, which have previously showcased everything from heart-shaped hands to butterflies. But is this art a hit or a miss? Share your thoughts below!

Another highlight was The Bazaar, a vibrant new space replacing Eden on other Edge-class ships. With bold colors like orange, pink, and red, vaulted LED screens, and floor-to-ceiling windows, it’s a feast for the eyes. Designed to host parties, musical performances, and dance shows tied to destination-inspired festivals like Carnival, The Bazaar aims to bring the essence of each port onboard. But here’s the question: does this enhance the cruise experience, or does it feel too staged? We’d love to hear your opinion!

As we wrap up, one thing’s clear: Celebrity Cruises is raising the bar with Xcel and Xcite. From innovative design to immersive experiences, these ships promise to deliver something special. Stay tuned for more updates, including exclusive photos from our tour of Celebrity Xcel. And don’t forget to join the conversation—are you team Xcel, team Xcite, or still on the fence? Let’s debate!