Celebrity Xcel Triumphantly Completes Sea Trials: What to Expect Next

The Celebrity Xcel has successfully completed its first sea trials, marking a significant achievement for Celebrity Cruises. The trials took place on September 13, 2025, in the Bay of Biscay, near Saint-Nazaire, France, where the ship is under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard.

Under the command of Captain “Kirk” Kyriakos Matragkas, the vessel, which weighs 140,600 tons, underwent a variety of maneuverability tests, designed to assess its functional and operational capabilities.

As the fifth ship in Celebrity’s Edge class, the Celebrity Xcel is preparing for its inaugural cruises set to begin in November. During its premiere season, the ship will host up to 3,260 guests on seven-night voyages from Fort Lauderdale, visiting several destinations, including the Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, and Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

Once it returns to Europe, the Xcel will offer a summer 2026 season in the Mediterranean, with new itineraries featuring overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal, and departures from Barcelona, Spain, and Piraeus, Greece.

The Celebrity Xcel introduces several innovative features designed to enhance the vacation experience. Notable among these is The Bazaar, a multi-level lounge offering immersive experiences inspired by various destinations. Additionally, a new casual dining venue named Spice will present a rotating menu of culinary delights based on the themes of each sailing.

Looking ahead, Celebrity plans to expand its Edge class with the delivery of a sixth ship from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2028.

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