What defines the ultimate luxury holiday at sea? For travel writer Deborah Peters, the answer emerged during an exclusive preview sailing aboard Celebrity Cruises' highly anticipated new vessel, the Celebrity Xcel. Setting sail on its maiden voyage in early 2026, this latest addition to the Edge Series promises a staggering array of choices, from extravagant global dining to world-class entertainment, all wrapped in sleek, art-filled surroundings.
A First Glimpse Aboard The Floating Palace
The journey began in Fort Lauderdale, where a celebratory atmosphere marked the departure for a Caribbean itinerary featuring Bimini in the Bahamas and Cozumel in Mexico. Stepping onto the Celebrity Xcel, guests are immediately struck by the sheer scale of its offerings. Daily planners in each cabin and a dedicated app help navigate the overwhelming selection of activities and venues.
The ship's heart is the three-deck Grand Plaza, dominated by a breathtaking chandelier above a martini bar. Here, flamboyant bartenders perform skilled juggling acts near a striking golden horse sculpture, creating a vibrant hub for relaxation and people-watching, especially during popular events like the silent disco.
A brand-new area, The Bazaar on deck five, offers an immersive experience. Accessed via a tunnel of shifting lights, it draws inspiration from the cruise's destinations, filled with artisan stalls and themed festivals on sea days. The space tantalises the senses with ever-changing aromas and crafting activities.
Endless Culinary Journeys & Active Pursuits
The dining landscape on the Celebrity Xcel is vast and exceptional. Four complimentary main restaurants—Cosmopolitan, Normandie, Cyprus, and Tuscan—each boast unique design and signature dishes. The Oceanview Café provides a relaxed buffet with stunning vistas, plus dedicated pizza, pasta, and ice cream stations.
For a premium experience, seven speciality restaurants await. Mosaic impressed with its open kitchen and creatively presented destination-inspired cuisine. Bora, a new outdoor venue atop the ship, offers extravagant brunches and sunset dinners perfect for a romantic evening.
Balancing the indulgence, the ship features a top-deck walking track with pool views and a state-of-the-art gym overlooking the ocean. The expansive spa, complete with a private sundeck called Vitamin D, offers a serene escape with saunas, steam rooms, and treatments.
Entertainment, Excursions & A Whispered Secret
Daytime vibrancy centres on the Celebrity Pool Club, watched over by a giant mirrored monkey sculpture—a prime selfie spot. Poolside valets cater to guests, and a programme of activities from volleyball to aquafun classes keeps energy high. By night, the area transforms for the Shine the Night party with DJs.
Beyond the pool, options are limitless: a casino, theatre, The Club with games and shows, an art gallery, and countless bars. Ashore, excursions like the fantastic shark snorkelling in Bimini provide unforgettable memories.
However, the most intriguing discovery was a well-kept secret. Whispers point to a hidden speakeasy bar onboard, not listed in any official literature and referred to only as 'IYKYK' (If You Know, You Know) online. Staff playfully deny its existence, but we found it on the final night. The clandestine experience, where photos are forbidden, is accessed via an unassuming photo booth. It's a thrilling secret for those in the know.
A 7-night Bahamas, Mexico & Cayman Cruise on the Celebrity Xcel, departing 1-8 March 2026, starts from £879.50 per person, based on two sharing an Inside Stateroom. This includes food, with drinks packages, flights, and WiFi at extra cost.
