Celebrity River Cruises Unveils Ambitious Plans for 10 New River Cruise Ships

Celebrity River Cruises has announced plans for the construction of 10 additional newbuild vessels, which will expand its European river fleet to a total of 20 ships by 2031. This significant increase aims to enhance the brand’s presence in the European river cruise market, providing a wider variety of itineraries and destinations.

This announcement coincided with the initiation of construction for the Celebrity Compass, the first riverboat in Celebrity’s new line. Upon completion, the 20-ship fleet is expected to position Celebrity as one of the largest operators in Europe, with the company also opening bookings for its 2028 cruise season, which will see an 80% increase in European destinations compared to its inaugural year of operations.

The 2028 cruise program is set to feature over 160 sailings, including stops at more than 50 European destinations. Planned itineraries will traverse routes along the Rhine, featuring the scenic Alsace wine country, and Danube sailings leading to Budapest’s famous market halls. Travelers will also experience routes allowing for day trips starting in Prague and ending in Vienna.

The first two ships, Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker, are scheduled to debut in 2027, with three additional ships – Celebrity Wanderer, Celebrity Roamer, and Celebrity Boundless – following in 2028. Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity’s parent company, has noted that demand for these river cruises has exceeded expectations, prompting the rapid expansion of the fleet.

Celebrity’s president emphasized that the swift sell-out of the inaugural 2027 season reflected the market’s strong interest in the company’s service and hospitality standards. The response to increased bookings has led to the introduction of the 2028 season with more destinations and a broader array of itineraries.

In 2028, the itineraries will encompass 24 new ports, including unique offerings such as overnight stays in Bucharest, combining river cruising with deeper exploration of cities. Seasonal programming will highlight spring tulip blooms and Christmas markets. More than 60 Rhine sailings will operate between Basel and Amsterdam, visiting traditional towns such as Strasbourg and Rüdesheim, while Upper Danube routes will connect prominent historical cities in Germany, Austria, and Hungary.

All 2028 Celebrity River Cruises sailings are now available for booking.

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