On This Page
- Celebrity Xcel Ship Review:
- Understanding the Edge Class: What Makes These Ships Special
- What's New and Different on Celebrity Xcel
- The Bazaar: A New Approach to Onboard Shopping
- Bars and Lounges: Where Celebrity Xcel Really Shines
- Who Should Sail Celebrity Xcel?
- Practical Considerations and Tips
- The Honest Verdict
- Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Xcel
- Ready to experience Celebrity Xcel for yourself?
- 📌Pin it for Later
- Celebrity Xcel Ship Review
- What Happens on Adult-Only Cruises?
- Virgin Voyages Cabins
- What Does an Adult-Only Vacation REALLY Mean?
- Star of the Seas
- Get Married on a Virgin Voyages Cruise
Celebrity Xcel Ship Review:
An Honest Look at Celebrity's Newest Edge-Class Ship
I recently had the privilege of sailing on Celebrity Xcel’s naming voyage, and I’m here to give you the real story about Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship. As a travel specialist who’s sailed extensively to evaluate cruise experiences for my clients, I approach every sailing with a critical eye. The Celebrity Xcel didn’t disappoint—but it also wasn’t perfect. Here’s everything you need to know about this stunning addition to the Edge Class fleet.
Understanding the Edge Class: What Makes These Ships Special
The Edge Class ships are mid-sized vessels carrying around 2,900 passengers at double occupancy. They’re large enough to offer incredible amenities and dining variety, yet small enough to feel intimate and avoid the overwhelming crowds you’ll find on mega-ships. The design philosophy centers on bringing guests closer to the ocean through innovative spaces and thoughtful architecture.
What sets Edge Class apart is the commitment to breaking down barriers between passengers and the sea. The iconic Magic Carpet—a floating platform that moves up and down the side of the ship—serves multiple purposes throughout the day, from a specialty dining venue to a tender loading platform. The Infinite Veranda staterooms eliminate the traditional barrier between your room and balcony, creating an open, airy space that truly connects you with the ocean.
The Rooftop Garden provides a real grass lawn at sea (yes, actual grass), complete with stunning sculptures and comfortable seating areas. The pool deck reimagines the traditional pool area with multiple pool experiences, including the adults-only Solarium. And the Grand Plaza at the heart of the ship serves as a living, breathing social hub with the Martini Bar as its centerpiece.
What's New and Different on Celebrity Xcel
Celebrity Xcel is the fifth Edge-Class ship, joining Edge, Ascent, Apex, and Beyond. While she maintains the signature Edge Class DNA that makes these ships so spectacular, Xcel introduces some thoughtful enhancements and refinements based on guest feedback from her sister ships.
The most noticeable difference is the enhanced outdoor spaces. Celebrity listened to feedback about guests wanting more alfresco dining and social areas, so Xcel features expanded outdoor seating at several venues. The Sunset Bar has been enlarged with additional seating and improved sightlines for those breathtaking ocean views during golden hour.
The stateroom design has been subtly refined with improved storage solutions—a seemingly small detail that makes a significant difference during a cruise. The lighting has been enhanced for better ambiance and functionality. These aren’t dramatic changes, but they represent Celebrity’s commitment to continuous improvement.
One area where Xcel shines compared to her sisters is in the Retreat—Celebrity’s ship-within-a-ship concept for suite guests. The Retreat Lounge and Sundeck feel even more refined, with better flow and more intimate seating arrangements. If you’re considering a suite, Xcel offers the most polished version of this elevated experience.
The Bazaar: A New Approach to Onboard Shopping
Instead of the typical jewelry stores and duty-free shops clustered in one corridor, The Grand Bazaar feels like wandering through a European marketplace. The space is open and inviting, integrated into the main flow of the ship rather than tucked away. Individual boutiques offer carefully curated collections—fashion, accessories, skincare, tech accessories, and yes, jewelry and watches.
What impressed me most was the quality of merchandise. Celebrity has clearly partnered with brands that align with their sophisticated guest demographic. You’ll find products you’d actually want to purchase, not just cruise ship tchotchkes. The pricing is reasonable, with frequent promotions throughout the sailing.
The Bazaar also hosts a bar, some amazing food (Mosaic and Spice), live music, and even entertainment and pop-up activities. I definitely recommend spending time in there and making it all the way through.
One practical tip: The Bazaar can get congested during sea days when special sales are running. Visit during port days or dinner hours for a more relaxed browsing experience.
@travelagentbecky I can’t wait to go back later today and sample the food! YUM! #CelebrityXcel #CelebrityCruises #celebritybazaar ♬ Acoustic - Billy Raffoul
Bars and Lounges: Where Celebrity Xcel Really Shines
The bar program on Celebrity Xcel is where this ship truly distinguishes itself from the competition. Celebrity has always taken its beverage offerings seriously, but the Edge Class ships elevate the entire experience with creative cocktails, stunning venues, and bartenders who genuinely know their craft.
The Martini Bar sits at the heart of the Grand Plaza and serves as the social centerpiece of the ship. This isn’t your typical cruise ship bar with sweet, frozen concoctions. The bartenders here are mixologists who take pride in their craft, creating both classic martinis and innovative signature cocktails. The bar features Celebrity’s famous ice-top where drinks are served on a bed of crushed ice, keeping them perfectly chilled throughout your conversation. I’ve watched these bartenders juggle shakers and engage guests with genuine enthusiasm—it’s entertainment and excellent drinks rolled into one. The Grand Plaza’s open design means you’re always in the center of the action, making it perfect for people-watching and impromptu celebrations.
The Sunset Bar has been expanded on Celebrity Xcel compared to earlier Edge Class ships, and it’s now one of my favorite spots onboard. Located on the Resort Deck with unobstructed ocean views, this is where you want to be during golden hour with a craft cocktail in hand. The extended seating area means you can actually find a spot during peak times, and the menu features refreshing, tropical-inspired drinks that perfectly complement the setting. The bartenders here are skilled at reading the vibe—whether you want something light and refreshing or a more spirit-forward cocktail, they’ll guide you to the perfect choice.
Craft Social is the beer lover’s paradise—a dedicated craft beer bar with an impressive selection of international and American craft brews. But even if you’re not primarily a beer drinker, this space is worth visiting. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through tasting flights that help you discover new styles and breweries. They also serve elevated bar food that pairs beautifully with the beer selection. The casual, pub-like atmosphere makes it a great spot to watch sports or just relax with friends.
The Club offers a sophisticated nightlife experience that feels more Miami Beach than cruise ship. The music is curated by DJs who understand how to read a room, building energy without overwhelming conversation. The bar here specializes in premium spirits and craft cocktails, with a particular strength in whiskey and aged rums. The lighting design creates an intimate atmosphere despite the larger space. This is where the younger crowd tends to congregate later in the evening, but it never feels like a college party—Celebrity’s demographic ensures a more refined energy.
And then there’s the hidden speakeasy I mentioned earlier. I won’t spoil the exact location here, but I’m always happy to share the details with my guests when they book. .
Who Should Sail Celebrity Xcel?
This ship works beautifully for multi-generational celebrations because it offers something for everyone without feeling chaotic. Grandparents appreciate the elegant design and attentive service. Parents value the variety of dining and entertainment. Adult children enjoy the modern amenities and social atmosphere.
Celebrity Xcel is less ideal for families with young children, as Celebrity generally caters to an adult audience. While children are welcome and the kids’ programming is quality, you won’t find the extensive family amenities of mainstream cruise lines. This actually enhances the experience for couples and adult groups who prefer a more serene atmosphere.
Practical Considerations and Tips
Embarkation: Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is efficient, but arrive on-time to avoid crowds, especially on high-volume sailing days. The check-in process is streamlined, but arriving early just complicates things.
Packing: Celebrity’s dress code is “smart casual” in the evening, with 2-3 formal nights per week-long sailing. You don’t need a tuxedo, but pack at least one outfit suitable for upscale dining. The ship’s temperature is well-regulated, but bring a light jacket for evening deck walks and potentially chilly specialty restaurants.
Stateroom Selection: If budget allows, Infinite Veranda staterooms offer the best value in the non-suite categories. The seamless indoor-outdoor design makes the room feel significantly larger. Interior staterooms on Edge Class ships are some of the best in the industry.
Dining Reservations: Book specialty restaurants as soon as possible after booking your cruise. Popular venues like Le Voyage fill quickly, especially on shorter sailings.
Shore Excursions: While Celebrity’s shore excursions are quality, they’re often more expensive than booking independently or with a travel specialist who has local connections. I work with vetted local operators throughout the Caribbean to provide my clients with personalized, often more authentic experiences at better value.
The Honest Verdict
Celebrity Xcel represents the most refined iteration of Celebrity’s game-changing Edge Class design. The ship delivers on its promise of modern luxury with thoughtful service and elevated experiences that feel genuine rather than forced.
Is it perfect? No ship is. Some public spaces get congested during peak times. The buffet, while improved from earlier Edge Class ships, still feels cramped when full. The app, while functional, occasionally has connectivity issues. And frankly, the daily activities program can feel repetitive on longer sailings.
But here’s what matters: Celebrity Xcel creates an environment where celebrations feel special and relaxation comes naturally. The design genuinely enhances your vacation rather than just providing a backdrop for it. The service team balances professionalism with warmth, making you feel welcomed rather than processed.
Would I sail Celebrity Xcel again? Absolutely. Would I recommend it to my clients? Without hesitation, for the right travelers. This ship excels at creating the kind of stress-free, elevated vacation experience that busy professionals crave—which is exactly what makes it perfect for celebrating life’s special moments.
@travelagentbecky Infinite Veranda = the cruise ship balcony that actually makes sense. Floor-to-ceiling windows that open completely, turning your stateroom into an indoor-outdoor oasis. #CelebrityXcel #CelebrityCruises ♬ So Easy (To Fall In Love) - Olivia Dean
Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Xcel
How does Celebrity Xcel compare to other Celebrity ships?
Celebrity Xcel is the newest and most refined ship in the Edge Class. Compared to Celebrity’s Solstice Class and older vessels, Xcel offers more modern design, innovative features like the Magic Carpet and Infinite Verandas, and enhanced technology. The Edge Class ships feel more contemporary and offer better indoor-outdoor flow than earlier Celebrity vessels.
What is the dress code on Celebrity Xcel?
Evenings are “smart casual” most nights, with 2-3 evening chic nights per week-long sailing (think cocktail dresses or suits). Daytime is resort casual.
What is The Retreat on Celebrity Xcel?
The Retreat is Celebrity’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship experience for suite guests. It includes a private lounge with complimentary specialty dining for breakfast and lunch, a private sundeck with premium amenities, priority embarkation and disembarkation, and dedicated concierge service.
Is there a casino on Celebrity Xcel?
Yes, Celebrity Xcel features a modern casino with slot machines and table games. The casino is typically open when the ship is in international waters.
What's the best time to cruise on Celebrity Xcel?
Since Celebrity Xcel sails the Caribbean year-round, the “best” time depends on your priorities. Peak season (December-April) offers the most consistent weather but higher prices and more crowds. Hurricane season (August-November) brings lower prices and fewer passengers but increased weather risks. I typically recommend December through April for the ideal balance of weather, pricing, and availability for group bookings.
Ready to experience Celebrity Xcel for yourself?
Contact me to start planning your Celebrity Xcel experience, and I’ll share the details about that hidden speakeasy I mentioned. Trust me, it’s worth discovering.
📌Pin it for Later
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