The Celebrity Xcel Ship. Photo: Celebrity Cruises The cruise company Celebrity Cruises unveils four entirely new spaces aboard the new ship Celebrity Xcel:
Celebrity Pool Club - This redefines the poolside experience, day and night. "Guests won't want to leave their sunbeds, thanks to the 'pool attendant' service including cool towels, card games, sunscreen, and personal storage, along with a modern roof design offering enhanced shading. Guests can also upgrade their day and enjoy private cabanas with dedicated service," according to the company. They also note that on the last day of cruising each Caribbean route, the pool area will transform into the Poolest Day Ever - an exciting party bringing island vibes with Caribbean-inspired live music, pop-up performances, pool games, and exclusive exotic drinks like coconuts with a shot of rum. In the evening, the energy rises with the Shine the Night party - a nighttime pool event with food and drinks.
Attic at The Club - A new game lounge illuminated by neon lights and open 24/7. It's an adults-only venue featuring pool games, darts, foosball, and shuffleboard. The place will also offer a private events space with options like karaoke, golf simulation, and more.
The Spa - The company's largest to date, featuring the Hydra Room for the first time – a water-healing experience and one of eight thermal experiences in the Thermal Suite. The room offers a warm pool with massage jets and heated lounge chairs for deep muscle relaxation. "The serene atmosphere and calming effects of the water create a haven of peace and rejuvenation," notes the company. Also featured is an outdoor sun deck exclusive to Thermal Suite guests, allowing them to enjoy the breeze, the panoramic view, and refreshing non-alcoholic drinks. The spa will offer more than 120 different treatments, including an expanded salon with a bubble bar. Additionally, there will be interactive shopping experiences with the option to try products and receive advanced skin analysis (Skin Lab) with personalized skincare regimen recommendations to maintain post-vacation.
Celebrity Flagship Store - The company's first flagship store, offering a unique shopping experience integrated with an interactive exhibition celebrating the world of the brand. Guests can enjoy trivia games, behind-the-scenes facts, historical artifacts, and rare collections. In addition, personalized souvenirs, such as water bottles, cocktail kits, keychains, hats, and robes with printing, embroidery, or engraving of choice can be created and purchased. These unique items are available only aboard the Xcel.
These four new spaces are part of seven entirely new areas aboard the Celebrity Xcel. Among others: The Bazaar - A Mediterranean-inspired chef's restaurant under the open sky named Bora, and the company's most extensive entertainment offerings yet, with round-the-clock performances.
The company also stated in its announcement that starting November 2025, Celebrity Xcel will embark on its premiere season from Fort Lauderdale with 7-night Caribbean sailings. In the summer of 2026, the ship will move to its European premiere season, with routes of 7 to 11 nights departing from Barcelona and Athens, including an overnight stay in Madeira, Portugal.
"Celebrity Xcel will set sail with 7 new and expanded experiences, inviting guests to disconnect from routine and create lifelong memories. With so much innovation at every corner, the journey itself will be as enjoyable as the destinations," said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises.
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