The Dutch shipyards have recently celebrated a significant milestone in the construction of Celebrity Cruises’ first river cruise ship, Celebrity Compass. This hull, essential for marking the brand’s entry into the river cruising market, was floated and subsequently moved to the fitting-out yard, with the launch set for August 2027.
Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, initially unveiled its plans to expand into European river cruising in January 2025, committing to build ten advanced river cruise ships. As of mid-2026, contracts for the first four vessels have been finalized. Additionally, in January of the same year, Celebrity announced its intention to further grow its fleet by adding another ten vessels, with the aim of having a total of 20 ships operational by 2031.
Construction of Celebrity Compass commenced in January 2026 at Zwijnenburg shipyard in Rotterdam. The float-out occurred on September 9, and just days later, the hull traveled approximately 50 miles to the TeamCo yard in Heusden for interior completion. The shipyard has promised that the second hull will follow suit within the next 12 weeks.
Each of these new river cruise ships will span about 135 meters (443 feet) and will accommodate up to 170 guests. Celebrity has emphasized a modern design featuring lightweight hulls, which should allow for smoother sailing, particularly during low water conditions prevalent in European rivers such as the Danube and the Rhine.
To appeal to its existing clientele, the design mirrors elements popular on its ocean-going vessels, featuring diverse dining options, a top-deck bar, and familiar lounges like the Martini Bar and Café al Bacio. The ships will offer 86 passenger staterooms, a mix of suites and balcony staterooms, tailored for an enjoyable cruising experience.
Set for its maiden voyage on the Danube between Budapest and Vilshofen, Celebrity Compass will be joined by the Celebrity Seeker in October 2027 and expand to the Rhine in December. Plans for a more comprehensive program are in place for 2028, introducing additional vessels throughout the year.
This new venture marks a significant expansion for Celebrity Cruises, expected to bring a fresh perspective to the river cruise sector, especially in design, dining, and excursion offerings. Industry observers are keen to see how it impacts the competitive landscape of European river cruising.
For additional details, visit the original sources:
Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.
