Celebrity Cruises is set to transform the cruise experience with the launch of its groundbreaking ship, Celebrity Xcel, in November. This innovative vessel is purpose-built to elevate onboard entertainment, featuring the largest resident cast in the cruise line’s history alongside a fresh roster of performances, interactive shows, live music, themed parties, and cultural experiences. With activities available from morning to night, every moment aboard Celebrity Xcel promises to be a captivating adventure.
One of the standout features of Celebrity Xcel is its immersive theatre productions. The ship will showcase three original shows that combine exceptional talent with the latest technology. Guests can look forward to high-energy performances filled with singing, dancing, parkour, and aerial stunts, enhanced by kinetic LED screens, projection mapping, pyrotechnics, and dynamic lighting. Among the productions, “Mainstage” emulates the vibrancy of global music festivals, incorporating decades of iconic hits, while “Between Takes” offers a glimpse into the 1920s Hollywood scene, complete with nail-biting action and live vocals. The third production, “Chapters,” invites guests to engage with themes of transformation and personal growth through breathtaking choreography and visual storytelling.
Celebrity Xcel also emphasizes interactive entertainment, especially within its club venues. “254 West” whisks guests back to the lively 1980s with a retro-themed celebration. Meanwhile, “HOTEL” presents a comedic cabaret-style mystery show where audience members participate in solving a captivating whodunit.
Beyond the theatre and clubs, the ship offers a diverse array of live music and themed parties. “Saddle Up Saloon” features a vibrant country-themed dance party, while other events include intimate classic rock concerts and romantic Mediterranean-themed gatherings that enhance the overall experience. An electrifying outdoor dance party called “Shine the Night” will also provide guests an opportunity to celebrate under the stars.
In an effort to promote cultural immersion, Celebrity Xcel will host “The Bazaar,” a rotating festival space that reflects the spirit of each destination through celebrations inspired by The Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, and the Dominican Republic. These festivals will consist of live music, performances, and hands-on activities that promise to engage guests with local culture.
A range of interactive games and competitions will also be available to guests of all ages, including elimination-style games and escape room challenges that foster teamwork and problem-solving. For the younger guests, the ship’s Camp at Sea program will offer access to over 50 digital games.
What sets Celebrity Xcel apart is its Xcel Dream Makers program, which allows guests to shape their entertainment experience, influencing elements such as costume design and festival themes.
On its inaugural season, Celebrity Xcel will depart from Fort Lauderdale on seven-night itineraries to destinations including The Bahamas and the Cayman Islands. Future summer 2026 Mediterranean voyages will span from Barcelona to Athens, featuring exciting stops in Madeira, Portugal.
With its diverse entertainment options, interactive experiences, and a focus on guest involvement, Celebrity Xcel promises to deliver a remarkable cruise journey that will redefine holiday experiences at sea and leave lasting memories for travelers.