New Celebrity Xcel liner: unique entertainment and relaxation on board.

Meeting Captain Kirk

According to The Sun: I never thought I would write this, but I met Captain Kirk.

He boldly goes where no captain has gone before – at the helm of Celebrity Xcel, a new cruise ship that has just completed its sea trials ahead of its first voyage from Florida this November.

This ship promises to be a true star, with a multitude of new features added with the input of thousands of 'Dream Makers'.

These are the ones who voted on the food, music, and entertainment they would like to have on their ideal vacation.

Unparalleled indulgence

Get ready for delicious brunches with Bloody Marys, with the option to select original garnishes (forget about the celery stick – I want a whole garden of vegetables and bacon bits!).

All of this awaits you at the new open-air restaurant Bora.

And in the evening, return to Bora to enjoy Greek ballads and romantic songs, savoring Mediterranean cuisine under the stars.

Additionally, new poolside valets will be handing out chilled towels, sunscreen, and board games so sun lovers can remain undisturbed on their loungers. There will also be planned pool parties after sunset during Caribbean Xcel cruises from Fort Lauderdale this winter.

Perhaps the captain (real name – Kiryako Matragkas) will kick off the party, as it turns out, he plays guitar quite well and knows what all the buttons on the modern bridge do.

Travelers will also be able to dive into nostalgia by playing on the new machines featuring Golden Tee and Pac-Man.

“And Pac-Woman,” inserts Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Betge. I sense a fan?

She is at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where Xcel is being built to showcase all the exciting new spaces.

It requires hard hats, safety goggles, and a rich imagination, as Xcel resembles a construction site more than a luxury ship – with wires and scaffolding everywhere.

New gastronomic experiences

During our tour, we meet 1,400 workers diligently preparing the ship for the autumn premiere.

In this state, we were even allowed to express our creativity by writing our names on the wall to become part of this vessel.

Our tour brings us to the new restaurant Mosaic – with an open kitchen, culinary school, and exclusive 'Chef's Table'.

Floating festivals

Directly above this, the bazaar will come alive on sea days with Caribbean or Mediterranean festivals, depending on the ship's itinerary, featuring vibrant LED screens and carts where travelers can sample local dishes and drinks.

Are you looking for tranquility? Book an AquaClass cabin and enjoy the new Vitamin D zone at the front of the spa or soak in the warm bubbly pool that has been added to the thermal complex.

“Our guests crave relaxation and discovery, so we provide a balance between the two,” says Hodges Betge.

In April 2026, Xcel will relocate from the Caribbean to Europe for the sunny summer season, sailing around Italy, France, Spain, and the Greek islands with prices starting at £940 per week.

Welcome aboard, Scotty!

More details at carnival.com.

Celebrity Xcel promises to be a revolutionary cruise ship that blends luxury and entertainment. With new gastronomic destinations, relaxation opportunities, and cultural programs, it will become a favorite spot for those dreaming of the perfect sea getaway.

And the start of its voyages from Florida this November promises new experiences for travelers eager to explore the beauty of the Caribbean and Europe in comfort and style.