Sailing into the Future: Celebrity Cruises Unveils Preview Sailing for the New Celebrity Xcel

Celebrity Cruises has announced an expansion of the launch schedule for its upcoming ship, Celebrity Xcel, by including a four-night preview sailing before its official inaugural voyage. This new addition allows guests to experience the ship’s features prior to its first official departure.

Initially, Celebrity Xcel was set to begin service with an inaugural voyage from Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, on November 18, 2025. However, the new itinerary features an additional sailing on November 9, 2025. Passengers already booked on the November 18 cruise have been given the option to switch their reservations to the earlier sailing, keeping their current suite or a similar accommodation. Celebrity Cruises promises to address any fare discrepancies due to this change with appropriate refunds, and impacted guests must confirm their decision by May 8, 2025.

After the initial preview sailings, Celebrity Xcel will continue with a series of 7-night Caribbean itineraries, visiting destinations such as the Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. These cruises are designed to mix popular beach locales with culturally rich sites.

Following the Caribbean season, Celebrity Xcel will transition to European waters, running 7 to 11-night itineraries from Barcelona and Athens. These voyages will highlight Mediterranean ports, aligning with a broader industry trend towards offering longer itineraries that combine relaxation with cultural exploration.

This shift towards extended European sailing options reflects Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to delivering destination-focused experiences. The introduction of Celebrity Xcel signifies the brand’s efforts to fortify its presence in the premium cruise market, showcasing modern upgrades, luxurious accommodations, and diverse itineraries appealing to both Caribbean and European travelers.

Celebrity Cruises has characterized Celebrity Xcel as a significant advancement within its fleet, aimed at providing an enhanced cruise experience through luxurious accommodations, innovative onboard spaces, and an expanded range of dining and entertainment options.

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