Construction Begins on Sister Ship Xcite Following Celebrity Xcel’s Successful Launch

Celebrity Cruises has officially taken delivery of its latest Edge-series ship, Celebrity Xcel. The handover, which occurred at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, marked a momentous occasion with a formal ceremony attended by executives from the Royal Caribbean Group, including Jason Liberty and Laura Hodges Bethge, as well as the ship’s captain and over 1,600 crew members. The event featured traditional maritime rituals such as a signing, flag change, and a toast held in the vessel’s Grand Plaza.

In conjunction with the delivery of Xcel, construction began on its sister ship, Celebrity Xcite, with the ceremonial cutting of steel. This new vessel is expected to launch in 2028.

Jason Liberty stated that Xcel represents the next evolution of the Edge series, aimed at enhancing the connection between the ship and its destinations through improved designs and elevated onboard experiences. Laurent Castaing emphasized that the development of Xcite underscores the commitment to innovation and quality from the shipyard.

Celebrity Xcel is scheduled to begin sailing in November, offering 7-night Caribbean itineraries before transitioning to a European season in summer 2026, operating from Barcelona and Athens, and including overnight stays in Madeira. The introduction of Xcel and Xcite reinforces Celebrity’s focus on blending technical sophistication, innovative design, and destination-driven experiences, which define their premium offerings in the cruise industry.


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