Celebrity Cruises Unveils 2025 Itineraries and Early Xcel Preview Sailings

Celebrity Cruises is forging ahead with an ambitious lineup of ship deployments and itineraries, showcasing its dedication to innovation and guest-focused experiences. Three of its notable Edge-class vessels, the Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Xcel, and Celebrity Eclipse, are each celebrating milestones and preparing for new global routes, including extended stays in Europe, early preview sailings, and commemorative voyages.

Celebrity Apex: From Early Challenges to a Southampton Return

Inaugural Years and Pandemic Impact

Launched during a virtual delivery ceremony in March 2020, the Celebrity Apex faced a delayed start when initial sailings were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In July 2021, it officially welcomed passengers with Aegean cruises that included stops in Mykonos and Santorini. By November 2021, the Apex began sailing the Caribbean, demonstrating its adaptability in diverse regions.

2025 Season in Southampton

Looking ahead, the 2,910-guest Celebrity Apex will return to Southampton for the summer of 2025, offering four-to-fourteen-night itineraries across Northern Europe, the Norwegian Fjords, the Canary Islands, Scandinavia, and the Western Mediterranean. Operations are set to launch on April 13, 2025. Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, said, “Guests told us how much they loved the amazing itineraries we offered with our Celebrity Apex sailings last year, so we’re excited to homeport this revolutionary ship in Southampton again this summer.” The Apex’s schedule will also feature shorter getaways to destinations like Rotterdam and Bruges, as well as longer voyages to the Arctic Circle and beyond.

The 2025 Presidents Cruise

A much-anticipated highlight of the Apex’s future schedule is the eight-night Presidents Cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, departing May 17, 2025. Passengers will have the opportunity to meet Bethge and enjoy exclusive culinary events hosted by renowned chefs, including David Boulud, Celebrity Cruises’ global culinary ambassador. VIP members of the Captain’s Club loyalty program will also have expanded engagement opportunities to enhance their cruising experience.

Celebrity Xcel: Earlier Than Expected Debut

The fifth Edge-class ship, Celebrity Xcel, will launch ahead of schedule with a four-night preview sailing on November 9, 2025, departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and featuring a call in Cozumel, Mexico. Guests already booked on the official maiden voyage of November 18, 2025, can switch their reservations to the preview cruise if they wish. Suite-class passengers will receive priority booking for comparable accommodations, along with fare adjustments or refunds as needed.

A suite of signature Edge-class features awaits those on the Celebrity Xcel, including the Magic Carpet movable deck, The Retreat luxury suite area, and cutting-edge dining and entertainment. Following its initial voyages, the ship will operate seven-night Caribbean sailings throughout the winter, reinforcing Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to year-round tropical offerings.

Celebrity Eclipse: Marking 15 Years

Also in the spotlight is the Celebrity Eclipse, celebrating its 15th year in service. Originally christened in 2010 by yachtswoman Emma Pontin, the 122,000-ton vessel has sailed worldwide, including popular routes in South America, Alaska, and the South Pacific. In summer 2025, the Eclipse will homeport in Amsterdam, offering seven-to-thirteen-night voyages through Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, Scandinavia, and the British Isles. Later in the year, it will reposition to Port Everglades, Florida, to embark on winter Caribbean itineraries that include stops in Antigua, Grand Cayman, and St. Kitts.

These varied deployments exemplify Celebrity Cruises’ strategic growth and sustained focus on bringing innovative onboard experiences to a wide spectrum of travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Celebrity Apex unique in the Edge series?

The Celebrity Apex stands out for its innovative design and amenities, including the Magic Carpet movable deck, immersive dining experiences, and The Retreat luxury suite area. Its adaptability was highlighted by a successful transition from delayed inaugural sailings to diverse itineraries in Europe and the Caribbean.

When will the Celebrity Xcel officially debut?

The Celebrity Xcel is set for an early preview cruise on November 9, 2025, departing Fort Lauderdale and visiting Cozumel. Its maiden voyage will follow on November 18, 2025, with passengers able to choose between the two sailings based on their preferences.

What is the 2025 Presidents Cruise aboard Celebrity Apex?

Departing May 17, 2025, the eight-night Presidents Cruise will take guests through the Norwegian Fjords and feature exclusive culinary events led by acclaimed chefs, including David Boulud. Passengers will also have opportunities for in-depth engagement with Celebrity Cruises’ president, Laura Hodges Bethge.

Which regions will Celebrity Eclipse cover in 2025?

The Celebrity Eclipse will homeport in Amsterdam for the summer season, offering European routes to destinations such as Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, and the British Isles. In the winter, it will reposition to Port Everglades for Caribbean sailings with calls in Antigua, Grand Cayman, and St. Kitts.