How Celebrity Xcel Redefines the Cruise Ship Industry

The Celebrity Xcel, currently under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, is shaping up to be a defining chapter in the Edge-class series. Though wires still hang from ceilings and protective coverings hide statement pieces like the chandelier in the Grand Plaza, the direction of this new ship is already clear—an evolution rather than a repetition.

Pushing the Edge Class Forward

The Xcel could have easily been built as a replica of the Celebrity Ascent, a ship that delivered record success in both guest satisfaction and financial performance. Instead, the brand chose to rethink spaces, introduce new experiences, and create fresh atmospheres for its guests.

Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, noted that repeating what worked before would have been the simplest route. However, true to the brand’s identity, the design team took a more ambitious path, ensuring each Edge-class ship carries its own unique identity.

New Spaces Designed for Experience

Instagram | ssship_cruisenews | The Bazaar is a new venue that uses LED screens and a marketplace design to create a festival vibe.

Seven spaces on the Xcel have been redesigned or newly introduced, with six already revealed. Each has been created with the goal of adding more dimension to the guest experience:

1. The Bazaar – Replacing Eden, this venue blends technology with atmosphere through LED screens and marketplace-style setups. Events here will adapt to destinations, creating a festival-inspired vibe.

2. The Spa – Expanded with an outdoor lounge deck called the Vitamin D Deck and the first-ever water therapy room, where cascading water from the ceiling is designed to enhance relaxation.

3. Bora – A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located on the top deck, offering new flavors with ocean views.

4. The Club – Now featuring an upper-level gaming area designed for adults.

5. Pool Deck Enhancements – Shaded areas and a valet station to improve comfort and convenience.

6. Celebrity Store – Redesigned as an interactive, museum-style retail experience.

The seventh reimagined space remains under wraps, adding intrigue ahead of the ship’s debut.

Subtle Yet Impactful Changes

Not every update is headline-grabbing, but even smaller enhancements contribute to the overall evolution of the Edge class. Blu, the dining venue for AquaClass guests, will be larger and more inviting. The theater is also receiving upgrades, including pyrotechnics and laser technology designed to create immersive 3D visuals during performances.

The Solarium and outdoor entertainment areas retain the familiar layout fans of the Edge class appreciate, though with thoughtful refinements. On Deck 15, for example, the outdoor movie screen remains, continuing traditions like showing Broadway classics such as “Wicked.”

Balancing Innovation With Tradition

Even with all the upgrades, some beloved venues remain untouched. The Martini Bar in the Grand Plaza, often described as the social hub of evenings at sea, keeps its iconic energy intact. Maintaining these anchors while introducing new features ensures loyal guests still feel at home on board.

The mix of consistency and creativity defines Celebrity’s approach with the Xcel. Guests stepping onto the ship will recognize familiar venues they’ve loved in the past, while also discovering spaces that feel entirely new.

Leadership and Character Onboard

Instagram | kreuzfahrttester | Celebrity Xcel’s new commander is Captain Kirk Matragkas, a veteran of the Edge-class ships.

Captain Kyriakos Matragkas, affectionately known as Captain Kirk, will command the Celebrity Xcel. Having previously led the Celebrity Beyond, he brings both experience and personality to the ship. His presence adds a sense of continuity within the Edge class while also giving the Xcel a distinct leadership style.

During a preview at the shipyard, Captain Kirk even gave a performance in the theater, showcasing not only the upgraded sound system but also his own guitar skills—an unexpected highlight that offered a glimpse of the ship’s personality before completion.

The Evolution of the Edge Class

The Celebrity Xcel builds on the line’s reputation for forward-thinking design while holding onto the details that regulars already love. Expanded favorites sit alongside brand-new spaces, creating a ship that feels both familiar and surprising—an evolution of the Edge-class identity.

When it debuts, Xcel won’t feel like just another vessel in the lineup. It continues the Edge story, showcasing thoughtful architecture, imaginative venues, and experiences crafted to mix ease with a touch of thrill.