You Won't Believe What $100 Million Gets You on the New Celebrity Xcel Cruise—Find Out Before It's Too Late!

What do haloumi, bath crystals, darts, and parkour have in common? They are all part of the vibrant experience aboard **Celebrity Cruises’** latest ship, **Celebrity Xcel**, which was officially named in **Fort Lauderdale** earlier this week. This new vessel is the fifth in the line’s **Edge Class**, offering a familiar layout to its four sister ships but with exciting updates that set it apart.

During a recent event, **Celebrity** executives and travel advisors shared insights into what makes the **Celebrity Xcel** so unique. The consensus is clear: the ship excels in both onboard entertainment and culinary offerings, particularly at its new specialty restaurants that come with an extra fee.

“I think they [Celebrity] did an amazing job of marrying style and amenities together,” said **Danny Genung**, CEO of **Harr Travel**. “The ship feels very comfortable, inviting, and the flow is perfect. I think they get entertainment and dining very right, which is critical to the success of a ship like Xcel.”

Entertainment and Dining Highlights

**Celebrity** has long been at the forefront of cruise industry entertainment. While some lines continue to produce traditional song-and-dance revues, **Celebrity** has attracted **Broadway-caliber** talent, acrobats, and aerialists to create a truly immersive experience. **Jason Liberty**, Chairman and CEO of the **Royal Caribbean Group**, expressed that he sees **Celebrity’s** competition as being not just other cruise lines, but also high-profile events like **Taylor Swift** concerts and trips to **Disney** parks. This innovative approach has elevated the nightlife experience on the ship, positioning it alongside new players like **Virgin Voyages** in terms of entertainment options.

Onboard, passengers can revel in three new production shows: **Chapters**, **Between Takes**, and **Mainstage**, all featuring spectacular performances that include elements like parkour and a high-tech digital backdrop. Those seeking a lively atmosphere can head to **The Club**, where they will find **254 West**, a venue that merges contemporary music with a nostalgic **Studio 54** flair, and **Saddle Up Saloon**, dedicated to country music enthusiasts.

The Club's upper deck, known as **The Attic**, features complimentary games such as darts and pool tables, ensuring that there's something for everyone looking to unwind. Additionally, the **Resort Deck** offers a pool party experience aptly named **Shine the Night**. Genung noted, “One of the things we have heard from Celebrity guests is that they want more to do, more excitement, and later into the evening. This ship delivers on that in so many ways.”

For a taste of cultural flair, **The Bazaar** offers products crafted by local artists from the regions where **Celebrity Xcel** sails. Here, guests can enjoy rotating shows focused on Caribbean culture, featuring performances that have been choreographed by local talent.

Culinary Delights

The dining scene on **Celebrity Xcel** is equally impressive, with standout establishments like **Bora**, an outdoor restaurant nestled in the **Rooftop Garden**. It features a Mediterranean menu focused on seafood and offers a unique dining atmosphere complete with live music and cocktail service. Diners are encouraged to share plates, making it ideal for a relaxed meal with friends or family.

**Mosaic**, another culinary option, provides a changing menu that adapts based on the ship's location. This upscale dining experience is perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations. Its counterpart, **Spice Cafe**, offers a more casual setting with a focus on build-your-own bowls and made-to-order sandwiches, all available at no extra cost.

For those looking for a unique experience, the unassuming photo booth in **The Club** promises an unexpected twist, offering more than just a cute strip of pictures. This and other new amenities, like the addition of a **pickleball court** in the **Rooftop Garden**, reflect **Celebrity’s** commitment to enhancing the guest experience.

Looking ahead, **Celebrity Cruises** plans to expand its offerings further, including an increase in private destinations and new itineraries focused on enhancing the travel experience. **Katina Athanasiou**, Senior Vice President of Sales at **Celebrity**, pointed out that the line’s **All Included** program adds value by bundling drinks and Wi-Fi into the overall cruise package, making it an attractive option for vacationers.

Ultimately, **Celebrity Xcel** not only adds to the allure of cruising with its innovative entertainment and diverse dining options but also resonates with a broader trend in the industry: providing customized experiences that cater to the evolving desires of modern travelers. As **Celebrity Cruises** continues to innovate and enhance its offerings, it remains well-poised for future success in the competitive cruise market.