Celebrity Cruises Reviews: Itinerary, Highlights & Takeaways https://eatsleepcruise.com/category/cruise/celebrity-cruises/ Sea the World One Port at a Time Tue, 16 Jul 2024 21:49:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://eatsleepcruise.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-cropped-favicon-1-32x32.png Celebrity Cruises Reviews: Itinerary, Highlights & Takeaways https://eatsleepcruise.com/category/cruise/celebrity-cruises/ 32 32 71567049 Celebrity Cruises Announces 2025 President’s Cruise Destination & Date https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-2025-presidents-cruise-norwegian-fjords/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-2025-presidents-cruise-norwegian-fjords/#respond Tue, 16 Jul 2024 21:49:16 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=88301 Celebrity Cruises has announced that the 2025 President's Cruise will be taking place in a brand-new destination.

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Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, has announced that the line’s 2025 president’s cruise will be in a brand new destination: the Norwegian fjords.

This year, the six-night President’s Cruise was a Caribbean voyage aboard Celebrity Beyond, which took place from June 23rd to June 29th. Guests aboard that sailing were the first to learn that next year’s cruise will be an eight-night Norwegian fjords itinerary aboard Celebrity Apex setting sail May 17, 2025.

celebrity apex in norway
Celebrity Apex in Norway (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

For Captain’s Club members, the annual cruise offers a specialty opportunity to spend time with the president and other executives from Celebrity Cruises. Guests will be able to soak up the magic and culture of cities such as Oslo, Alesund, and Bergen with an array of to-be-announced shore excursions, special events, and unique experiences only offered on the 2025 President’s Cruise.

“The President’s Cruise is a massive celebration of our Captain’s Club members, and the sailing is an incredible opportunity for me and my executive team to spend time with our guests,” said Laura Hodges Bethge. “It is incredibly rewarding to hear guests’ stories and experience Celebrity through their eyes. The feedback and ideas we receive while onboard are instrumental in shaping the future of Celebrity Cruises, allowing us to innovate and enhance our offerings in ways that truly resonate with our guests.”

celebrity apex in the norway norwegian fjords
Celebrity Apex in Norway (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

This year’s President’s Cruise included a pool party featuring performances from members of the Team USA Artistic Swimming team, entertainment from Guinness World Record holding hula hoopers, and crowd-favorite games like the Officers vs Guests pool volleyball game, umpired by Hodges Bethge. “A Conversation with Celebrity” provided the opportunity to ask unfiltered questions to Celebrity executives and guests were also treated to unique performances from West End star Marisha Wallace and Celebrity Reflection captain Captain Kyriakos Matragkas, who put on a rock show like none other.

The sailing also highlighted one of Celebrity’s newest offerings, a stop at Royal Caribbean Group’s private island Perfect Day at CocoCay. The day of surprises included jet ski and flyboard stunt performers, Caribbean Junkanoo bands, DJs, and afternoon soirée for Captain’s Club members at Coco Beach Club, and more.

Celebrity Cruises to Offer First Ever Stops to Perfect Day at CocoCay
Perfect Day at CocoCay

In Grand Cayman, guests set off on shore excursions hosted by Celebrity’s executive team, with Hodges Bethge hosting a private lunch at the iconic Grand Old House, the oldest dwelling in Grand Cayman.

A day at Bimini rounded out the trip, where the President’s Cruise took over the island for a private beach club party before the ship received a send-off with fireworks ahead of returning to Port Everglades.

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Celebrity Cruises Cancels Voyages on Two Galapagos Ships https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-cancels-voyages-xpedition-xploration/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-cancels-voyages-xpedition-xploration/#respond Fri, 14 Jun 2024 19:25:58 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=87231 Celebrity Cruises has canceled 2025 Galapagos Islands voyages on Celebrity Xploration and Celebrity Xpedition.

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After learning earlier this week that Celebrity Cruises has sold two of its three Galapagos expedition ships, the line has given notice that it has canceled 2025 voyages on those vessels.

All sailings previously scheduled to take place on Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration between January and December 2025 are now canceled. In an email to travel agents and booked guests, the line said “On December 28, 2024, Celebrity Xploration and Celebrity Xpedition will set sail from Baltra for their final time as part of the Celebrity Cruises fleet. We remain committed to the Galapagos Islands, offering sailings on Celebrity Flora, a ship built to sail in the archipelago year-round.”

Spring Break Cruises 2018

For guests who were already booked onto one of the two ships for 2025, the cruise line has provided two alternative options.

The first option allows guests to select a new sail date aboard Celebrity Xpedition or Xploration setting sail this fall. They’ll receive a free transfer to a similar or better cabin category with the price they originally paid protected on select sailings. The original stateroom category price will either be protected or reduced to the current cruise fare rate (whichever is lower). Guests with flights booked through Celebrity will have their air automatically reaccommodated. They’ll also be reimbursed for non-refundable, pre-purchased transportation change fees incurred up to $400 per guest.

The second option allows guests to move to a select sailing on Celebrity Flora — an all-suite ship purpose-built for the Galapagos — at the original price paid. The’ll be able to choose sailings on a like weekend or one week before or after the original departure date. Holiday cruises are excluded unless originally booked on a holiday sailing. The other terms are similar to the first option.

celebrity xpedition
(Photo via Celebrity Cruises)

Celebrity Xploration and Celebrity Xpedition, which hold 16 and 48 guests respectively, have been sold to Lindblad Expeditions and are set to undergo multi-million-dollar revitalizations next year before setting sail with the line.

Now, Celebrity Cruises will have just one vessel, Celebrity Flora, in the Galapagos. The ship debuted in 2019 and can hold 100 guests and 80 crew members.

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Celebrity Cruises Celebrates Major Construction Milestone For Next Ship https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-keel-laying-xcel-ship/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-keel-laying-xcel-ship/#respond Thu, 13 Jun 2024 21:32:00 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=87215 Celebrity Cruises celebrated the keel laying ceremony of its newest upcoming ship, Celebrity Xcel, today.

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Celebrity Cruises is celebrating a major construction milestone for its next Edge-class ship. Today at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, a ceremony was held for the keel laying — one of the first milestones as a ship is built.

celebrity xcel keep laying france shipyard
(Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

At the ceremony, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group Jason Liberty, president of Celebrity Cruises Laura Hodges Bethge, and General Manager of Chantiers de l’Atlantique Laurent Castaing lowered the first 739-ton steel block for the new ship in the dry dock. As part of the longstanding maritime tradition, executives from the cruise company and shipyard placed newly-minted coins on the first piece of steel to bestow good luck on the ship during both the construction process and future sailings.

celebrity xcel coin ceremony
(Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

“Today, we not only mark the start of construction, but we are laying the foundation on which countless memories will be created,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Each new ship also represents an opportunity to advance our journey to net zero, and with Xcel, we are building our first methanol capable ship, which helps advance our transition to the energy platform of the future.”

Pushing the boundaries of leisure travel, Celebrity Xcel will advance Royal Caribbean Group’s decades-long commitment to sustaining the planet with the first tri-fuel capable engine. The new engine will provide unmatched fuel flexibility with the ability to use three types of fuel, including methanol — a first for the company. This type of engine represents an important stepping stone on Royal Caribbean Group’s journey to Destination Net Zero, its vision for net-zero emissions by 2050.

celebrity xcel keel laying ceremony france
(Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

Celebrity Xcel will make her debut in November 2025 in the Caribbean. Her inaugural season will be out of Fort Lauderdale, from where she will operate seven-night itineraries alternating between the Bahamas, Mexico and the Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. The sailings are now open for booking.

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Celebrity Cruises Selling Two Ships to Expedition Cruise Line https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-sells-galapagos-ships-lindblad-expeditions/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-sells-galapagos-ships-lindblad-expeditions/#respond Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:57:07 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=87195 Celebrity Cruises has sold its two smallest ships to Lindblad Expeditions, which will revitalize and rename them.

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Lindblad Expeditions announced today that it is adding two purpose-built Galapagos ships to its fleet — the current Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration. This means that Celebrity Cruises will be left with just one small vessel sailing in the Galapagos Islands — Celebrity Flora, which debuted in May 2019.

Celebrity Cruises Announces 2024 Sailings to the Galapagos
Celebrity Xpedition

“We recognize and appreciate the immense privilege our Company has to operate and grow our expedition cruise offerings in the Galápagos Islands,” said Sven-Olof Lindblad, Founder and CEO of Lindblad Expeditions.

“When my father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, led the first international citizen expedition to the Galápagos nearly 60 years ago, I don’t think he ever could have dreamed it would serve as the foundation for ecotourism in the archipelago and would be the catalyst for meaningful, positively impactful connections. We look forward to not only bringing more Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic guests to the islands with the growth of our fleet, but also to having a greater positive social impact supporting conservation, education and the creation of livelihoods.”

lindblad expeditions galapagos catamaran
(Image courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions)

Later this month, Lindblad Expeditions will open bookings for the two vessels and reveal their new names. The soon-to-be former Celebrity Xpedition holds 48 guests and features 24 outward-facing cabins, including 13 balcony suites. Celebrity Xploration is an eight-cabin catamaran that holds just 16 guests.

Once the transaction process from Celebrity Cruises to Lindblad Expeditions is complete in January 2025, the vessels will undergo multi-million-dollar revitalizations.

Lindblad Expeditions has been the global leader and pioneer of modern expedition cruising in the Galapagos since leading the first-ever non-scientific international civilian expedition to the region in 1967. For years, the company has operated two ships in the region: the 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour II and the 48-guest former mega-yacht turned expedition vessel National Geographic Islander II. The line offers six itineraries across more than 100 departures year-round. The addition of these two Celebrity ships will double the size of Lindblad’s Galapagos fleet.

lindblad expeditions galapagos vessel
(Image courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions)

For more information on Lindblad Expeditions’ offerings in the Galapagos, visit expeditions.com/destinations/galapagos.

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Complete Guide to Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club https://eatsleepcruise.com/complete-guide-to-celebrity-cruises-captains-club/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/complete-guide-to-celebrity-cruises-captains-club/#comments Sat, 10 Jul 2021 13:00:00 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=50957 In this Complete Guide to Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club, we provide all the updated details on each level in this loyalty program.

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It certainly pays to be loyal to one particular cruise line. Most cruise lines offer incentives for repeat customers with loyalty programs. These tiered programs offer cruisers more and more perks as they work their way up the ranks. In this Complete Guide to Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club, we provide all the details on each level in this loyalty program including all of the associated benefits.

Complete Guide to Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club (2024)

How to Sign Up for Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club

Becoming a member of Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club is easy. All you need to do is take a cruise with Celebrity! You will then need to create an account on the Celebrity Cruises website and enroll as a new member. Once that is complete, you can sit back and enjoy the benefits.

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises Extend Cruise with Confidence Policy

You will then accrue loyalty points based on the number of cruise days and the room category booked. This point structure applies to most cruise destinations. Further, the cruise line will occasionally run promotions offering double points for booking.

Exclusive to Celebrity Cruises’ loyalty program, you can also earn points for non-sailing activities through the line’s Power Up Points program. For every 10 Power Up Points earned, you’ll get 1 Club Point.

Related Post: Guide to Celebrity Cruises Ship Classes

How to Earn Points in Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club

Earning Club Points in Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club is easy. The more you cruise, the more points you earn. Cruisers will receive these points after completing their cruise. They will enjoy the new membership benefits on the sailing after they achieve the next membership level.

Complimentary sailings, Seminar at Sea, travel agent rates, and employee rates do not earn points. Reduced rate upgrades will only earn points at the original stateroom category purchased, NOT the category of the upgraded stateroom.

Celebrity Edge Infinite Veranda review

If two adult members reside at the same address, they have the option to link their member accounts. While each member still earns points based on their individual sailing activity, both will have access to the points and tier level associated with the member who has the higher Club Point balance. Further, guests traveling solo in a stateroom will earn double the amount of points.

Unlike other cruise line loyalty programs though, the points earned with Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club are a bit more tiered based on the room category booked.

The minimum number of points that you can earn per night is 2 points for inside and oceanview rooms. You will earn 3 points per night for verandas and 5 points per night for Concierge Class and Aqua Class. If you book a Sky Suite, Aqua Sky Suite, or Sunset Sky Suite, you will earn 8 points per night. Further, Celebrity, Signature, Sunset, Horizon, and Royal Suites qualify for 12 points per night. You get a whopping 18 points per night for Reflection, Penthouse, and Edge Villa Suites.

Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club

Related Post: Guide to Cruise Planning

Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Levels & Benefits

Preview:

As a Preview member, you’ll receive complimentary access to the Captain’s Club Loyalty Desk and a Captain’s Club newsletter. Preview members are also eligible for Captain’s Club offers when booking a future cruise onboard their current sailing.

Classic:

After taking one cruise with Celebrity Cruises, you will achieve Classic level. This level includes cruisers with 2-149 points. Classic level cruisers receive access to exclusive Welcome Events. They are also entitled to one complimentary scoop of gelato, 10% off internet (which may be applied to an upgrade from Surf to Stream if sailing with Always Included pricing), and one pre-cruise category upgrade through Aqua Class.

Guests also receive 10% off a drink package or upgrade to the Premium package from the classic package if purchased pre-cruise. There’s also a 25% discount on a photo package, one complimentary specialty coffee when dining in a specialty restaurant, a 10% discount on a bottle of wine, a 5% discount on Small Group Discovery Tours, and a 5% discount on the Hollywood Hot Glass class (on select ships). Casino perks include 1 match play for roulette or black jack and 1 bonus card with a 4-pack purchase for Deal or No Deal.

celebrity cruises captain's club benefits

Select:

The second level in Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club is Select. Guests with 150-299 points are Select level. These members receive all benefits of the Classic level as well as additional perks. These additional perks include increased discounts to 25% off for internet, 30% off for a photo package, and complimentary pressing of 2 clothing items.

Further, guests are entitled to a 10% multi-use discount on spa services, 30% off a photo package, a complimentary wine seminar with advanced reservation required, 15% off a bottle of wine, and 2 match plays in the casino.

Elite:

The next tier in Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club is Elite. This tier is for guests with 300-749 points. This level entitles guests to all the Select tier perks as well as additional perks. The additional perks include invitations to the Senior Officer Party, the Create and Pour event (on Apex, Beyond, and Ascent), and the Music + Mixology Event. There’s also unlimited drinks from the Captain’s Club menu daily from 5-7 pm (if they are not sailing with Always Included pricing), an increase to 30% off internet packages (or upgrade) plus 90 mins of complimentary Stream internet, and an increase to 40% discount off a photo package. The Captain’s Club drinks are now available at bars and lounges throughout your ship.

Further, Elite guests have a 15% multi-use discount on spa services, and a 15% discount on a beverage package upgrade. Additionally, guests receive 1 complimentary bag of laundry and 2 pressed items, access to priority tender and departure lounge where available, a 20% discount off a bottle of wine, and 3 casino match plays.

Elite Plus:

The Elite Plus level includes guests who have acquired 750-2,999 points. These guests receive all of the Elite member perks along with added benefits. The added benefits include 2 complimentary bags of laundry, one complimentary fitness class, a 15% discount on specialty dining, a 20% discount on the drink package when purchased pre-cruise, and complimentary specialty coffee. These guests also receive an increased discount off internet to 35% plus 240 minutes of complimentary Stream internet.

celebrity cruises captain's club perks

Zenith:

The most loyal guests in Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club are the Zenith members. These guests have 3,000+ points in the loyalty program! As you would expect, these guests are entitled to the most perks. These benefits include complimentary unlimited Stream internet, complimentary laundry, and a complimentary Premium beverage package.

Further, Zenith guests are entitled to large discounts off onboard purchases like 50% off at the photo gallery, 25% off specialty dining, and a 20% multi-use discount at the spa. They also receive priority seating in the theater, access to Concierge and Zenith lunch, and free room service.

The best part is they even qualify for a free cruise! Zenith members receive a complimentary 7-night Caribbean or Bermuda cruise for every 3,000 points earned.

Further, the Top Cruiser on each sailing will enjoy a complimentary dinner at a specialty dining restaurant, along with complimentary flowers and wine. This special guest will also now have the opportunity to take part in an interview with the cruise director.

Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club

Zenith members also have access to The Retreat Lounge and Michael’s Club.

Additional Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Benefits

All Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club members will receive additional on land perks as well. These include exclusive member discounts and savings on cruises, member perks with MGM Resorts International, up to 20% off any purchase from 1-800-Flowers and its family of brands (Harry & David, Cheryl’s Cookies, The Popcorn Factory, and Personalization Mall) and an online Captain’s Club Newsletter.

Additionally, Captain’s Club members receive discounts through Celebrity Cruises Night Out for tickets to a wide variety of entertainment options.

Zenith members also receive priority reservations at Chef Daniel Boulud’s land-based restaurants: Restaurant Daniel, Le Pavillon, Café Boulud NY, Le Gratin, Bar Boulud, Jōji, and Blue Box Café. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance.

Finally, all of Royal Caribbean Group’s wholly-owned cruise brands — Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Silversea Cruises do loyalty level status matching. This means that, for example, if you’re Select on Celebrity, you’ll receive Platinum benefits on Royal Caribbean and Silversea 100 VS Days benefits on Silversea. If you’re Elite Plus, you’ll receive Diamond Plus benefits on Royal Caribbean and Silversea 350 VS Days benefits on Silversea.

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However, cruise points remain according to actual cruises taken and are calculated using the accrual system for each respective brand. Further, credits earned on one brand are not combinable with credits earned from another brand.

Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Phone Number

If you have any additional questions about Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club, you can call 1-800-760-0654 from the U.S. and Canada. If you’re from another country, the phone number is 1-316-554-5961.

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Royal Caribbean Group Launches Status Matching Between All 3 of Its Cruise Lines https://eatsleepcruise.com/royal-caribbean-group-status-matching-celebrity-silversea/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/royal-caribbean-group-status-matching-celebrity-silversea/#respond Thu, 30 May 2024 16:16:57 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=86925 Royal Caribbean Group has announced it will start status matching between all three of its cruise lines: RCI, Celebrity, and Silversea.

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Royal Caribbean Group has announced that loyalty members from its three wholly-owned cruise brands — Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea — will attain equivalent tier status on any of its brands.

Celebrity Cruises' Biggest Caribbean Season Has Begun

The status match program allows members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club, and Silversea’s Venetian Society to enjoy reciprocal tier status no matter which brand they sail with. Program highlights include:

  • Seamless Status Recognition: Members of one of the cruise lines’ loyalty programs are now eligible to receive one-for-one status match across all three brands after enrolling in each program.
  • Onboard Benefits: When sailing on each sister brand, guests can enjoy the onboard benefits offered by each brand for their equivalent tier status.
  • Tier Matching: Guests already enrolled in multiple loyalty programs will be automatically matched across brands within 7 days to ensure they receive their appropriate loyalty status.

Here are the status matching levels:

  • Royal Caribbean Gold = Celebrity Classic = Silversea 1 VS Day
  • Royal Caribbean Platinum and Emerald = Celebrity Select = Silversea 100 VS Days (members with Select and 100 VS Days enjoy Platinum benefits on Royal Caribbean)
  • Royal Caribbean Diamond = Celebrity Elite = Silversea 250 VS Days
  • Royal Caribbean Diamond Plus = Celebrity Elite Plus = Silversea 350 VS Days
  • Royal Caribbean Pinnacle Club = Celebrity Zenith = Silversea 500 VS Days
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As an example of how this works, a Venetian Society member with 250 VS Days and an upcoming sailing on Celebrity can enroll in Captain’s Club, which would give them Elite status once their loyalty accounts are connected.

It’s important to note that this is a status match program — NOT a points pooling system. It’s also worth mentioning that RCI and Celebrity have already had a status match program, but previously the highest tiers that guests could match into were Diamond and Elite. Now, the program works up to the highest tier and it includes Silversea.

New benefits onboard for members who have their status matched will begin with sailings departing on June 5, 2024.

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Celebrity Cruises Details New Inclusions and Experiences For Guests Staying in The Retreat https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-new-experiences-the-retreat/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-cruises-new-experiences-the-retreat/#respond Thu, 23 May 2024 18:52:14 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=86798 Celebrity Cruises has announced various enhancements to its Retreat experience available exclusively to suite passengers.

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Celebrity Cruises is taking the suite life to new heights with new enhancements for The Retreat, its upscale ship-within-a-ship complex on select ships.

All suites in The Retreat come with a dedicated butler who is now just a message away with Butler Chat, allowing for faster and easier communication from anywhere on board or ashore.

A dedicated shore excursions expert is now available for Retreat guests, who can plan activities in port, ensure smooth transfers between the ship and the top sights, and more. Additionally, guests can relax prior to excursions in The Retreat Lounge and enjoy suite-to-car butler escorts for Private Journeys excursions.

At the suites-only restaurant Luminae, culinary offerings have been enhanced including new signature dishes from chef Daniel Boulud and a new rotating dinner and dessert menu. In suite, passengers can enjoy personalized daily delights, chosen from the in-room dining menu, as well as a complimentary stocked minibar.

celebrity cruises luminae the retreat restaurant dining
Luminae (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

To ensure the best views in the house, guests of The Retreat will enjoy reserved seating in The Theatre. Plus, those staying in Royal Suites and above will be able to take advantage of complimentary laundry service including unlimited pressing.

Existing Celebrity Cruises Retreat Offerings

In addition to these new offerings, guests of The Retreat can enjoy:

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner from the comfort of their stateroom, selected from the in-suite dining menu, available daily
  • Award-Winning Wine Portfolio of red, white, and bubbly wines representing vineyards from around the world served complimentary in The Retreat Lounge, Luminae and in-suite
  • Express Priority Luggage Drop Off and Delivery on embarkation

Guests staying in Royal Suites and above will also have access to:

  • Complimentary Extend Your Stay providing the flexibility of staying onboard longer on disembarkation day in select ports. Guests can store their luggage, access public areas, use Wi-Fi and drink packages, enjoy lunch, and relax before their departure.
  • Complimentary SEA Thermal Suite access on Edge Series ships and the Persian Garden on Millennium and Solstice Series ships
  • Complimentary Unlimited Specialty Dining, including lunch and dinner
  • Ability to customize their in-suite minibar experience before sailing
  • Two complimentary bottles of wine or spirits throughout their sailing
  • Exclusive complimentary sleepwear
celebrity cruises the retreat iconic suite bedroom
Iconic Suite Bedroom (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

The Retreat features an exclusive sundeck and private lounge. Prior to stepping onboard the ship, Retreat guests have the services of a pre-cruise concierge, priority check-in and departure, and priority port tendering at select port of call.

Note: The Retreat Sundeck is only available on Revolutionized ships and Edge class ships. It’s not currently available on Celebrity Solstice, Eclipse, Reflection, Constellation, or Infinity.

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Celebrity Cruises’ First Edge-Class Ship Sets Sail to Alaska https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-edge-departs-seattle-for-alaska-first-time/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-edge-departs-seattle-for-alaska-first-time/#respond Fri, 17 May 2024 23:30:26 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=86595 For the first time ever, Celebrity Cruises has one of its Edge-class ships sailing in Alaska as Celebrity Edge sets sail from Seattle today.

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For the first time ever, Celebrity Cruises has an Edge-class ship sailing to Alaska.

The first in the class, Celebrity Edge, sets sail today from Seattle, embarking on a spring and summer season of seven-night voyages with stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, plus scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord. The voyages also include a visit to Victoria, British Columbia.

celebrity edge alaska
(Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

There’s no better way to see the pristine Alaskan wilderness than onboard Celebrity Edge, which was specifically designed to create a closer connection between guests and destinations” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. “Our elevated vacation options are redefining travel, especially in this region.” 

Through September 2024, guests can enjoy the beautiful views of Alaska from the comfort of one of Celebrity’s largest and newest ships. Some highlights of the vessel include:

  • Accommodations including two-story Edge Villas with plunge pools and staterooms with infinite balconies
  • The Retreat, an exclusive area for suite guests that features a private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck, as well as a dedicated team of butlers, attendants, and concierges
  • 29 restaurants, bars, and lounges featuring globally-inspired menus
  • Unique spaces including The Magic Carpet cantilevered platform, which changes purposes depending on which deck it’s on

Celebrity Edge, Summit, and Solstice together will offer 57 sailings on a variety of six and seven-night itineraries to Alaska from May to September of this year.

celebrity edge alaska
(Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

Celebrity Edge will offer both roundtrip from Seattle and one-way voyages between Vancouver and Seattle that are six and seven-nights long. Itineraries include visits to some of the region’s top spots, with experiences in Ketchikan also known as the “Salmon Capital of the World;” Endicott Arm to spot the local wildlife including brown bears, bald eagles, sea ducks, deer, moose, and wolves; Alaska’s capital Juneau; and Skagway. The ship then visits Victoria via the Inside Passage before heading back to Seattle.

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Guide to Celebrity Cruise Ships By Size and Class https://eatsleepcruise.com/guide-to-celebrity-cruises-ship-classes/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/guide-to-celebrity-cruises-ship-classes/#respond Tue, 18 May 2021 13:00:03 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=50956 Our comprehensive guide to Celebrity cruise ships by size will help you decide which ship is the right fit for your next cruise vacation.

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Celebrity Cruises offers travelers a variety of cruise vacations to destinations across the globe. Celebrity Cruises’ fleet varies in terms of size and amenities. If you are considering a cruise with the brand, we have put together this comprehensive guide to Celebrity cruise ships by size to help you decide which ship is the right fit for your next vacation.

Guide to Celebrity Cruise Ships By Size (2024)

How many cruise ships does Celebrity Cruises have?

There are currently 16 ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. 13 are standard large cruise ships, while three are much smaller expedition ships that sail in the Galapagos Islands.

By the end of 2025, an additional Edge-class ship, Celebrity Xcel, is expected to debut.

Excited to Sail on Celebrity Solstice

What is Celebrity’s largest cruise ship?

It’s actually a tie between two Edge class vessels for Celebrity’s largest cruise ship: Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent. Both come in at 140,600 gross tons and can hold 3,849 guests. As is the case with many cruise lines, these two largest ships are also the newest in the fleet, having launched in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

The first two ships in the Edge class, Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, are slightly smaller at 129,500 gross tons each. They can hold 2,918 guests (Edge) and 2,910 guests (Apex).

Related Post: What to Know About Drink Packages on Celebrity Cruises (2024)

What is Celebrity’s smallest cruise ship?

The smallest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet is one of its Galapagos vessels, Celebrity Xploration. The luxury catamaran is just 320 gross tons and holds only 16 guests — almost a private yacht type of experience for the passengers on board!

Celebrity Cruise Ships By Size (Largest to Smallest)

  • Celebrity Ascent (2023) — 140,600 gross tons, 3,849 guests
  • Celebrity Beyond (2022) — 140,600 gross tons, 3,849 guests
  • Celebrity Edge (2018) — 129,500 gross tons, 2,918 guests
  • Celebrity Apex (2020) — 129,500 gross tons, 2,910 guests
  • Celebrity Reflection (2012) — 126,000 gross tons, 3,480 guests
  • Celebrity Silhouette (2011) — 122,400 gross tons, 3,324 guests
  • Celebrity Eclipse (2010) — 122,000 gross tons, 3,148 guests
  • Celebrity Equinox (2009) — 122,000 gross tons, 3,148 guests
  • Celebrity Solstice (2008) — 122,000 gross tons, 3,148 guests
  • Celebrity Summit (2001) — 91,000 gross tons, 2,599 guests
  • Celebrity Infinity (2001) — 91,000 gross tons, 2,593 guests
  • Celebrity Millennium (2000) — 91,000 gross tons, 2,593 guests
  • Celebrity Constellation (2002) — 91,000 gross tons, 2,559 guests
  • Celebrity Flora (2019) — 5,739 gross tons, 100 guests
  • Celebrity Xpedition (2004) — 2,842 gross tons, 48 guests
  • Celebrity Xploration (2017) — 320 gross tons, 16 guests
Celebrity Cruises One Best Cruise Lines for Couples

What are the different Celebrity cruise ship classes?

Celebrity Cruises’ ships are divided into four classes. The Galapagos class ships are almost an entire brand on their own, a fraction of the size of the other ships and offering an expedition-style product that is quite different than the standard large-ship Celebrity experience. The other three classes are more similar, offering many of the same or similar venues and experiences across different ships.

Edge Class

The newest ships in the Celebrity fleet are in the Edge class. The Edge class consists of Celebrity Edge (2018), Celebrity Apex (2020), Celebrity Beyond (2022), and Celebrity Ascent (2023). As mentioned above, a fifth ship in the class, Celebrity Xcel, is set to join the fleet in late 2025. It’s currently under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France.

The current Edge class ships are approximately 130,000 and 140,000 gross tons and accommodate about 2,900 to 3,800 passengers.

The Edge class ushered in some of the most innovative and iconic features at sea. Perhaps one of the most prominent features on Celebrity’s Edge-class ships is the Magic Carpet. This cantilevered floating platform is a first of its kind. Certainly, it can’t be missed with its unique design and eye-catching orange color. This transformative space serves as a bar, an exclusive dining experience, and a unique tender platform.

Celebrity Cruises Ship Classes

Speaking of dining, this Celebrity Cruises ship class also features 4 complimentary main dining rooms with exclusive menu options, a brand new steakhouse Fine Cut, and the experiential tasting menu at Eden.

The Resort Deck offers a luxury 5-star hotel feel with trendy decor, wide open spaces, a large pool, and plenty of lounge chairs, not to mention the iconic sculpture.

Further, there is also the Rooftop Garden. This casual outdoor area offers a retreat from the pool deck complete with tree-like art installations, comfy lounge furniture, live plants, and some oversized garden games. There’s the popular Sunset Bar nearby as well.

Top Things to Do on Celebrity Edge

If that’s not enough, the staterooms on Celebrity’s Edge-class ships are some of the most luxurious in the fleet. In addition to a more stylish and sleek design, the Edge-class of ships offers a brand new class of staterooms, the Infinite Veranda cabins. These Infinite Veranda cabins offer a seamless transition from the stateroom to the “balcony” space, bringing you even closer to the ocean. Though, there are mixed feelings about these staterooms.

Solstice Class

Perhaps the most popular of the Celebrity Cruises ship classes is the Solstice class. With five sister ships, this is the largest class by number of ships currently.

The ships in this class include Celebrity Solstice (2008), Celebrity Equinox (2009), Celebrity Eclipse (2010), Celebrity Silhouette (2011), and Celebrity Reflection (2012). The Solstice class is 122,000 gross tons and accommodates around 2,850 passengers.

The most prominent feature on Solstice-class ships is the Lawn Club. The Lawn Club offers cruisers a unique green space to enjoy while at sea. This half acre, well-manicured area on the top deck is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the views. You can also play a game of bocce ball, listen to some live music, or perhaps even create your own picnic lunch.

Top Things to Do on Celebrity Solstice

The Lawn Club is also home to the popular Sunset Bar and Hot Glass classes. These 20-minute classes offered by Hollywood Hot Glass are available for an up-charge on Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, and Celebrity Equinox. These interactive one-on-one classes pair you with a trained glassblower to learn some glassblowing techniques as well as to create your very own masterpiece.

Related Post: Things You Can Only Find on Celebrity Cruises

While the Solstice class offers a traditional main dining room experience, it is also known for its specialty restaurants, like Murano, and the lively Martini Bar. From the ice-topped bar to the talented servers, this is one spot you’ll find yourself visiting over and over again.

Additionally, these ships also feature two outdoor pools, an indoor Solarium, our favorite coffee shop Cafe al Bacio, and nightly entertainment in the main theater.

Celebrity Cruises Ship Classes

Millennium Class

The Millennium Class of ships currently includes the oldest ships sailing under the Celebrity Cruises flag. This class includes Celebrity Millennium (2000), Celebrity Infinity (2001), Celebrity Summit (2001), and Celebrity Constellation (2002).

The Millennium class of ships are 91,000 gross tons each and carry just over 2,500 passengers.

All four ships recently underwent large renovations to bring them up to date. Celebrity Millennium and Summit were refurbished in 2019. Celebrity Infinity and Constellation just completed updates earlier this year.

Best Cruises to Alaska

If you enjoy smaller cruise ships, then you will love this class of ships. The Millennium class offers all the signature touches of the brand in a more intimate atmosphere. You will also find the Rooftop Terrace which is unique to this class of ships.

Fans of Celebrity Cruises will be able to enjoy the specialty restaurants Tuscan Grille, Le Petit Chef, and Sushi on Five, along with the traditional main dining room.

Related Post: We Just Dined at the Most Expensive Celebrity Cruises Restaurant

The signature Martini Bar, Cellars Masters wine bar, and the coffee shop Cafe al Bacio are also on the Millennium class ships.

During the day, cruisers can enjoy the pool deck, the Solarium, or the spa. At night, the main theater comes alive with a variety of entertainment offerings to keep guests entertained between the exciting ports of call.

The renovation upgrades to the cabins including new eXhale bedding as well as improved bathrooms. Further, cruisers opting for suites will appreciate the newly added Retreat Deck and Retreat Lounge.

Galapagos Class (Expedition Ships)

If you are looking to book a trip of a lifetime to the Galapagos, look no further than Celebrity Cruises. Celebrity has three expedition ships designed to navigate these waters. The brand’s expedition ships include Celebrity Xpedition (2004), Celebrity Xploration (2017), and Celebrity Flora (2019).

Celebrity Cruises Ship Classes

Celebrity Flora is the cruise line’s first purpose-built ship for this destination. On Celebrity Flora, you can visit the Galapagos in the most luxurious accommodations. This 100 passenger, all-suite ship offers technologically enhanced staterooms, Michelin-starred chef menus, and up close and personal adventures like no other. Celebrity Flora is “Galapagos Glamping” at its finest.

The onboard venues do vary by expedition vessel, but you should not expect to find the bells and whistles of the larger cruise ships. After all, an expedition cruise is really about the destination!

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Celebrity Apex Becomes First Edge-Class Ship to Homeport in the UK https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-apex-first-edge-class-homeport-united-kingdom/ https://eatsleepcruise.com/celebrity-apex-first-edge-class-homeport-united-kingdom/#respond Wed, 15 May 2024 18:07:35 +0000 https://eatsleepcruise.com/?p=86509 Celebrity Cruises' ship Celebrity Apex began sailing from Southampton today, making it the first Edge-class ship to sail from the UK.

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Setting sail from Southampton today for the first time, Celebrity Cruises’ ship Celebrity Apex is now the first vessel in the Edge class to call the United Kingdom home.

Apex will kick off her European season from Southampton with an eight-night voyage to the Norwegian fjords. The sailing will visit destinations including Bruges, Belgium; Geiranger, Norway; and Kristiansand, Norway.

celebrity apex exterior
Celebrity Apex (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

Celebrity Apex is the second ship in Celebrity’s Edge Series following Celebrity Edge, which launched in 2018. Apex followed with her first sailing in 2021.

“We’re bringing one of our most innovative ships, Celebrity Apex, to Southampton, providing guests the opportunity to sail in style directly from the UK,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. “It’s an exciting time as we elevate cruising from the region, enabling our guests to explore and restore with premium facilities, elevated food and drink experiences, and exciting activities and entertainment.”

celebrity apex retreat sundeck
The Retreat Sundeck on Celebrity Apex (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

With itineraries covering destinations in northern Europe to the Canary Islands, Apex will sail from Southampton through October 2024. This summer, guests can experience a variety of four to 13-night sailings including the 12-night Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Circle cruise.

In addition to explorations across northern Europe, sailings will visit the island of Ibiza in the Mediterranean where travelers can enjoy cuisine at local foodie hotspots, party at vibrant beach clubs, and bask in the sunshine on the sea.

Highlights of Celebrity Apex include the cantilevered multi-purpose platform The Magic Carpet; The Retreat ship-within-a-ship complex with a private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck; Infinite Veranda staterooms which offer indoor-outdoor living; the Rooftop Garden outdoor space; and the two-story Edge Villas with their own private balconies and plunge pools.

celebrity apex magic carpet platform
The Magic Carpet on Celebrity Apex (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

The ship also features 29 restaurants, bars, and lounges where guests can try globally-inspired menus. Entertainment on board includes dramatic performances with Rockumentary, a journey through the seasons of life with Tree of Life, and pop violin music and aerial acrobatics with Crystallize.

Following her summer season in Europe, Celebrity Apex will head across the Atlantic to spend the winter sailing from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean.

Comments

Have you ever sailed one of Celebrity Cruises’ Edge class ships? Are you planning to sail Celebrity Apex this year? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!

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