The keel laying ceremony for Celebrity Cruises’ latest vessel, Celebrity Xcel, signifies a pivotal development in the company’s Edge-series. Held at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, this event marks the commencement of construction on the fifth Edge-class ship, which aims to redefine luxury cruising.
Scheduled to debut in November 2025, Celebrity Xcel is set to embark on seven-night itineraries throughout the Caribbean. This addition highlights the brand’s continuous innovation, featuring a tri-fuel engine that supports the company’s sustainability objectives. The ceremony drew notable figures from the maritime and cruise industry.
The significant keel laying ceremony, a time-honoured maritime tradition, took place at the esteemed Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France. This event was graced by key industry leaders, including Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, and Laurent Castaing, General Manager of the shipyard. Together, they lowered the first steel block, symbolising the start of the construction for Celebrity Xcel.
These carefully curated itineraries are designed to provide travellers with an opportunity to explore some of the Caribbean’s most stunning and culturally rich destinations. Celebrity Xcel’s voyages are expected to attract cruise enthusiasts from around the world who are eager to experience the unique amenities and luxury that the Edge-class ships are renowned for.
The inclusion of a tri-fuel engine is part of a broader strategy to transition towards more sustainable energy platforms. This aligns with the global push for greener maritime practices, reflecting a significant shift in focus towards reducing the carbon footprint of cruise ships.
Celebrity Cruises continues to partner with top designers and architects to ensure that the Edge-class ships meet the expectations of discerning travellers. The focus on quality and innovation ensures that Celebrity Xcel will deliver an exceptional travel experience, combining elegance and functionality in every aspect of its design.
The successful implementation of such innovative features is likely to influence future shipbuilding projects, encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly technologies across the maritime sector. This progress illustrates a proactive approach to addressing environmental challenges while enhancing passenger experience.
Laura Hodges Bethge expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Chantiers de l’Atlantique, highlighting the shipyard’s craftsmanship in bringing cutting-edge designs to life. These partnerships underpin the cruise line’s commitment to maintaining high standards of luxury and sustainability in its fleet.
Celebrity Cruises’ investment in the Xcel reflects a broader strategy to enhance its fleet with modern, environmentally friendly vessels. By focusing on sustainability and innovation, the brand aims to set a precedent for future developments in the cruise industry.
The keel laying of Celebrity Xcel marks a significant milestone in Celebrity Cruises’ journey towards sustainable and innovative luxury travel. With its groundbreaking tri-fuel engine and luxurious design, Xcel is poised to redefine cruising standards, promising unforgettable experiences for passengers. It echoes the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility and customer satisfaction.
