When considering a cruise with Celebrity Cruises, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with their diverse fleet of ships. Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of vessels, ranging from the newest and most technologically advanced to older, more intimate ships that exude a classic charm. Understanding which is the newest ship in their lineup is particularly beneficial, as it usually comes with the latest amenities, cutting-edge design, and innovative features.
Why Booking the Newest Celebrity Ship Matters
Booking a cruise on the newest ship in Celebrity Cruises’ fleet often guarantees the most modern and luxurious experience. These ships are equipped with the latest in cruise technology, offering updated cabins, state-of-the-art restaurants, stylish bars, and a plethora of attractions. If you value contemporary design and the newest innovations in the cruising industry, opting for the newest ship is a wise choice.
As of now, the Celebrity Ascent is the crown jewel of Celebrity Cruises, having debuted in December 2023. This ship represents the height of modern cruising within the esteemed Edge Class series. However, the Celebrity Xcel, another marvel in the Edge Class, is set to launch in November 2025, soon to take over as the fleet’s newest addition.
A Breakdown of Celebrity’s Newest Ships
Celebrity Cruises operates a fleet of 16 ships, each offering a unique cruise experience. Here is a detailed enumeration of the newest vessels in the fleet:
- Celebrity Ascent (2023)
- Tonnage: 141,420 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 3,260
- Class: Edge Class
- Celebrity Beyond (2022)
- Tonnage: 141,420 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 3,260
- Class: Edge Class
- Celebrity Apex (2020)
- Tonnage: 130,818 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 2,910
- Class: Edge Class
- Celebrity Flora (2019)
- Tonnage: 5,739 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 100
- Class: Flora Class (Specialized for Galapagos)
- Celebrity Edge (2018)
- Tonnage: 130,818 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 2,908
- Class: Edge Class
Celebrating the Classics: Celebrity’s Older Vessels
While the newest ships grab the headlines, Celebrity Cruises also maintains several older vessels that offer a more traditional cruising experience. These ships are beloved for their intimate atmosphere and timeless charm. They are regularly updated and renovated to ensure they meet Celebrity’s high standards of comfort and style.
Here’s a list of the oldest ships still serving in the Celebrity fleet:
- Celebrity Millennium (2000)
- Tonnage: 91,000 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 2,137
- Class: Millennium Class
- Celebrity Xpedition (2001)
- Tonnage: 2,842 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 48
- Class: Xpedition Class (Focused on Galapagos)
- Celebrity Infinity (2001)
- Tonnage: 91,000 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 2,170
- Class: Millennium Class
- Celebrity Summit (2001)
- Tonnage: 91,000 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 2,158
- Class: Millennium Class
- Celebrity Constellation (2002)
- Tonnage: 91,000 tons
- Passenger Capacity: 2,170
- Class: Millennium Class
Key Differences Between Celebrity’s Newer and Older Ships
- Size and Capacity:
- Newer Ships: The latest additions, especially those in the Edge Class, are significantly larger. This increased size allows for more venues, diverse dining options, and a greater variety of cabins, including luxurious suites.
- Older Ships: These vessels are smaller, offering a more intimate cruising experience. They may not have as many modern amenities, but they compensate with a cozy, less crowded atmosphere.
- Onboard Amenities:
- Edge Class Ships: These ships feature groundbreaking innovations like Infinite Veranda cabins, which blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces, and the Magic Carpet, a versatile platform that can be used as a lounge, bar, or embarkation area.
- Older Ships: While lacking in some newer innovations, older ships offer a classic cruising experience, with traditional dining rooms and entertainment venues that have been updated to maintain a high standard of service.
- Renovations and Upgrades:
- Celebrity Cruises ensures that even their older vessels remain appealing by regularly renovating them. These updates often include new carpeting, furniture, decor, and sometimes entire overhauls of public spaces to introduce new dining concepts or entertainment options that debuted on newer ships.
- Specialized Vessels for Unique Destinations:
- Galapagos Fleet: Celebrity operates three small, specialized vessels that cater to expeditions in the Galapagos. These ships, like the Celebrity Flora, provide a more exclusive and intimate experience, focused on exploration and eco-friendly travel, distinct from the larger mainstream cruise ships.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the latest innovations or prefer the charm of an older, smaller ship, Celebrity Cruises has something to offer every type of traveler. The newest ships, such as Celebrity Ascent and the upcoming Celebrity Xcel, are perfect for those seeking the cutting edge of luxury cruising. Meanwhile, the older vessels provide a more intimate experience, often at a more competitive price.
No matter which ship you choose, you can expect the same high level of service, fine dining, and well-appointed accommodations that Celebrity Cruises is known for. By understanding the differences between the ships, you can make an informed decision that will ensure a memorable and enjoyable cruise vacation.