The luxury cruise industry has welcomed a spectacular new titan, with the billion-dollar Celebrity Xcel officially christened as the new flagship of the Celebrity Cruises fleet. The vessel is making a significant splash, offering amenities and experiences that challenge the world's top resorts.
Sunrise Reporter's Maiden Voyage on a Floating Palace
Sunrise reporter Katie Brown, a first-time cruiser, was dispatched to the Caribbean to put the opulent new ship through its paces. Her mission was to uncover whether the vessel lived up to its monumental price tag and flagship status. What she discovered was a level of luxury and innovation designed to captivate even the most seasoned travellers.
Among the standout features are the ship's heated tile lounges, which promise profound relaxation. According to the cruise line, spending just 40 minutes on these lounges can deliver muscle relaxation benefits equivalent to eight hours of sleep. The ship also boasts what is described as "the iconic suite," setting a new benchmark for accommodation at sea.
Seven New Spaces Define the Flagship Experience
Laura Hodges Bethge from Celebrity Cruises explained what elevates the Celebrity Xcel above the rest of their fleet. "Celebrity Cruises’ elevated hospitality is through and through throughout our fleet, but Celebrity Xcel is now the flagship of that," she said. "It’s got seven new places and spaces that I can’t wait for folks to try."
When asked to choose her personal favourite, Laura highlighted the innovative 'bazaar' as her top pick. "It is this real integration of all of the teams on board, bringing the authenticity of the destination onto the ship through food, drink, retail experiences, entertainment, music," she elaborated. "It’s just such a beautiful, authentic way to keep the destination going with you while you’re on board."
Cultural Immersion and Unforgettable Moments
The ship's focus on authentic cultural connection is evident in unique offerings like tropical origami classes. Here, passengers can craft hummingbirds, the national bird of Jamaica, creating a tangible link to the destinations they visit during their voyage.
For reporter Katie Brown, one of the most memorable highlights was refreshingly simple: after a day filled with exploring the ship's endless activities and lavish amenities, the profound peace of watching the sunset over the Caribbean water stood out as a perfect moment. It underscored the ship's ability to offer both exhilarating innovation and serene, timeless beauty.
The launch of the Celebrity Xcel marks a significant moment for Celebrity Cruises, solidifying its position in the ultra-competitive luxury cruise market. By combining resort-level amenities with immersive cultural experiences, the new flagship is poised to attract travellers seeking both unparalleled comfort and a deeper connection to their journey's destinations.
