Category: Cruise News Today

Celebrity Cruises Dream Makers PRizes

2/9/2025

Win big with Celebrity Dream Makers!

Celebrity Cruise's Dream Makers program is officially live and there are some great prizes to be won for participants!

Celebrity xcel 2-night Naming Sailing

Celebrity Cruises Dream Makers Prize: A trip for two to be one of the first to experience Celebrity Xcel during an invitation only sailing on November 16, 2025.

2 Night Celebrity Xcel Naming Ceremony Cruise | Photo Celebrity Dream Makers

Poolest Day Ever Event

You and a guest can see a whole new side of poolside at Celebrity's special event chock full of food and drinks, poolside entertainment, activities and more surprises in New York, NY with this Dream Makers prize.

Celebrity Xcel Poolest Day Ever Event | Photo Celebrity Dream Makers

2025 Celebrity President's Cruise

This Dream Makers prize affords an incredible opportunity for 2 to sail aboard Celebrity Apex on May 17, 2025 for an 8-night Norwegian Fjords cruise with Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge.

2025 Celebrity President's Cruise Norwegian Fjords | Photo Celebrity Dream Makers

Don't want to chance it?
Book one of the few remaining suites on the exclusive 2025 Celebrity President's cruise and see the incredible Norwegian Fjords!

Book The President's Cruise

Xcel Dining Sneal Peek

If you win the Xcel dining sneak peek dream makers prize you will get to attend a special behind-the-scenes event hosted on Celebrity Beyond in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for a first taste of the dining concept on Celebrity Xcel.

Xcel Dining Sneak Peek | Photo Celebrity Dream Makers

The Bazaar Private Sneak Peak

The first prize of the Celebrity Dream Makers program will be drawn on February 17, 2025. This trip for 2 to Miami will allow the winners a first look at the new entertainment and dining at The Bazaar.

The Bazaar Dining and Entertainment First Look | Photo Celebrity Dream Makers

Daily Instant Win Prizes

In addition to the major prizes above, every day you have a chance to with Celebrity branded prizes including water bottles, notebooks, passport holders, luggage tags, cosmetic bags, and towels.

Xcel Instant Win Game 2 Night | Photo Celebrity Dream Makers

Want to be part of Celebrity Cruises Dream Makers?

Become a Dream Maker!

More about Celebrity Dream Makers:

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The Bazaar - Celebrity Xcel Review

2/5/2025

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The Bazaar is one of the ways Celebrity Xcel will be different, an exciting reveal about Celebrity's new ship for 2025 that has just been announced.

The Bazaar on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises

What is the Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel?

Celebrity Cruises aims to 'erase the line between ship and shore' with their new and dynamic Bazaar concept spanning over 3 stories.

The Bazaar will combine entertainment, shopping, and dining along with culturally immersive experiences like cooking classes and dance lessons on a cruise all inspired by the destinations you will be traveling to.

Is The Bazaar Replacing Eden?

Yes, it does appear that The Bazaar will be replacing Eden. Personally, I really enjoyed Eden on Celebrity Ascent, and apparently a lot of other people did as well, but let's face it .. variety is the spice of life!

Keeping every ship totally identical could be boring, so it's nice to see a new concept introduced on Celebrity's new ship in 2025. Maybe you'll love it, maybe you'll hate it, but you never know until you try right?! ;)

Book a Celebrity Xcel Cruise

If you want an opportunity to influence the development of The Bazaar on Xcel, sign up for Celebrity Dream Makers! You may even win a free sailing! 8)

Which deck is the Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel?

The Bazaar spans 3 decks on Celebrity Xcel - Decks 6, 5, and 4. Pop-up entertainment, performances from local musicians, and destination-inspired festivals will be enjoyed all around.

When you are ready to shop for some unique gifts and souvenirs, The Market at The Bazaar is located on Deck 5 along with the casual dining venue Spice. On deck 4 you will find Mosaic Restaurant.

Celebrity Xcel Deck Maps - The Bazaar

The Bazaar is located at the Aft (rear) of Celebrity Xcel.

Is Mosaic Restaurant Free or Paid on Xcel?

Mosaic is a stunning open kitchen concept with culinary delights that reflect the ports of call, rather than having a set menu for the duration of the cruise.

Mosaic Restaurant on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises

Mosaic will surely be a paid, specialty restaurant on Xcel.

Also hosted at Mosaic will be the Chef's Table at Mosaic experience where you will enjoy a multi-course tasting menu of dishes from all continents developed from childhood favorites of the native cuisine of Celebrity's global culinary leadership team, along with wine pairings.

For the foodies, Chef's Studio at Mosaic is a not-to-be-missed activity throughout the voyage. This cooking school on a cruise ship will allow guests to learn to cook regional delicacies and local favorites from each destination they visit. When they return home, they can use these newly developed skills and recipes to make a meal Inspired By Travel for those who couldn't cruise with them (this time). ;)

Is Spice Free or Paid on Xcel?

Spice on Xcel should be replacing Eden Cafe which was a complimentary dining venue on previous Edge Class Ships. The seating area will provide spectacular sea and port views with its floor-to-ceiling windows. While enjoying the views, guests will nosh on rotating bites including... you guessed it... items inspired by the ports visited on the itinerary.

I think you're getting the theme here...

Spice on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises

The Market at The Bazaar on xcel

The Market on Xcel should add some really unique shopping options on the ship for those who aren't looking for a luxury watch or a magnet that says "St. Thomas".

The Market on Xcel - Photo Celebrity Cruises

In fact, local artisans will come onboard to showcase their crafts, skills, and traditions. Demonstrations and tastings will happen in this area - think basket weaving demos and local hot sauce tastings, for example. There's also word of rum and chocolate pairings which sounds like a great time!

With its content changing multiple times throughout the cruise, the Market will be a spot to revist throughout your sailing!

The Bazaar Concept Review on xcel

The Bazaar concept is really promising! If well executed, it will provide engaging and enriching experiences for cruisers on Xcel - both paid and unpaid.

Not all passengers have the budget for a lot of extras, so the ship itself should have plenty to enjoy. For those with extra pocket change or who have sailed several times, it's nice to come back to a familiar ship and have varied experiences.

Every itinerary you sail on will have different entertainment and cuisine, which is very cool!

Presumably from the photos, the use of screens will enable the entrance to The Bazaar, called the Xcel Tunnel, and the main areas to transform with culturally on-theme designs for the festival being showcased that day. I might be totally wrong about that and would be happy to be wrong, but it seems likely and practical.

Personally, I am not a fan of having screens everywhere (I'm kind of over screens, aren't you?), but I can see how they enable creating a new immersive environment with ease multiple times during each itinerary and could be done tastefully. What do you think?

One last thing. Some people are saying things like "If I want to see an artisan, I'm going to get off the ship and see them in destination." That is totally valid. I agree, I think the ultimate experience is had on location, however that doesn't mean I wouldn't also enjoy it on the ship!

For sure some passengers won't have ability to do an excursion and sometimes can't even get off the ship for one reason or another. With that in mind, I think it's fabulous they can get some cultural enrichment without leaving the ship - whether that's in port or on a sea day.

And besides, unless you know someone local or are exploring completely DIY, there's a pretty good chance you're getting at least a semi-manufactured experience in port anyway. lol That's not necessarily a bad thing as it allows you to get the most out of a short time in port! Just keeping it real over here :)

When is Xcel coming to EURope?

Xcel debuts with Caribbean itineraries in November 2025 followed by the 2026 European Cruise season. While cruising Europe, The Bazaar on Xcel will have all new festivals, markets, and culinary experiences inspired by Mediterranean destinations. So cool!

When is Xcel's Transatlantic Sailing?

If you'd like to enjoy all the amenities of Xcel on a transatlantic sailing, April 26, 2026 is the day. A 15-night transatlantic cruise will take you from Ft Lauderdale Florida's Port Everglades to Barcelona, Spain with stops in Bermuda, Azores, Lisbon Portugal, Cartagena, and Mallorca.

Fancy a cruise from Barcelona to Florida? Sail on October 23, 2026 for 16 nights stopping in Cartagena, Malaga, Gibraltar, Seville, Madeira, and Bermuda before disembarking in Miami.

Book a Transatlantic Cruise on Celebrity Xcel

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Celebrity announces River Cruises in 2027!

2/3/2025

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Not long after announcing the exciting Celebrity Dream Makers program, Celebrity has made an announcement which I for one am hugely excited about:

Celebrity River Cruises

Celebrity is entering the River Cruise market! *cue confetti* What an exciting plot twist!

Photo Celebrity Cruises - This is how we river

Whereas sister brand Royal Caribbean has more recently been embracing the fun mega-ship vibe, Celebrity (my current favorite cruise line) is going for elegance and cultural immersion with this new endeavor.

North Americans are largely familiar with Viking Cruises when it comes to booking River Cruises and they are a luxurious, premium product. I'm eager to see if Celebrity will position themselves as a more affordable option or if they aim to be an apples-to-apples competitor with Viking.

There's a lot of speculation at the moment and many details are yet to be confirmed so this is an exciting time for the cruise industry and let's see how other lines respond to this news.

Here are a few things we know about Celebrity River Cruises:

What is Celebrity River CruiseS?

Celebrity River Cruises is a brand new premium river cruise, designed for those who want a more immersive and culturally enriching cruise experience to unique itineraries.

Why is Celebrity getting into River Cruises?

Celebrity feels it's a natural extension of their brand, and I have to agree. As soon as I heard the news, after recently sailing Celebrity, I thought "Yup, that absolutely fits. How can I get on a Celebrity River Cruise!?" lol

What is the difference between ocean cruises and river cruises?

One huge difference is where River Cruises can take you. Rivers cut through the heart of countries and continents giving you access to explore all new cities with ease!

Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas aren't going to fit down some of these rivers or have the ability to dock at the ports, so these cruises will have smaller ships which can lend to a more tailored experience.

With a huge focus on culture, passengers on Celebrity River Cruises will cherish memories of unique shore experiences and delight in locally inspired cuisine onboard. This is a foodie's dream!

Rivers are also calmer than the wide open ocean, so these European Cruises (to start!) down rivers are an incredible option for those who easily become seasick and thus hesitate to try cruising.

When is the first Celebrity River Cruise Sailing?

The inaugural sailing will be in 2027, with booking starting in 2025. Guaranteed this will book up fast, so reach out if you want first dibs when booking opens.

How many Ships Will Be In the Celebrity River Cruises Fleet?

Soooo ... Celebrity is going all in on this venture. They aren't just building one or two new River Cruise ships, but they have TEN ships on their "initial" order! *insert mind blown emoji*

What will the ships look like?

Welp.... you know the Edge Series ships we love so much? :) It seems like Celebrity River Cruises will be mini versions, isn't that so cute?!

Okay I'm not saying they are going to be identical miniatures, but they will be smaller sized ships (exact capacity and specs to come) and they are going to "mirror the quality and sophistication" of the Edge class ships, and I'm totally onboard for that.

No pun intended. :p

Will you be sailing Celebrity River Cruises in 2027?

I'm legit excited to be onboard a Celebrity River Cruise in 2027 to give you the full scoop. Watch this space.
Celebrity - call me.

What is Celebrity Xcel Dream Makers?

1/21/2025

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Loads of Celebrity Captain's Club Members (aka past sailors) received an email this week inviting them to join something called "Dream Makers" which is set to launch on February 8, 2025.

But what exactly is Dream Makers? We're answering all your questions today!

Celebrity xcel Dream Makers Video

What is Xcel Dream Makers?

Celebrity Xcel is the newest ship being added to the Celebrity fleet, the 5th in the stunning line up of Edge Class ships which also includes Edge, Apex, Beyond, and Ascent.

Xcel Dream Makers aims to be an opportunity for cruisers to impact the final decisions about the design and onboard experience of Celebrity's newest ship launching in 2025.

Celebrity Cruises is offering cruisers the chance to be a part of designing its newest ship, Celebrity Xcel. To create the world’s first cruise ship designed for cruisers, by cruisers, Celebrity is extending an invite to travelers globally to join the ‘Xcel Dream Makers,' where members will preview and vote on experiences launching on Celebrity Xcel. Additionally, Dream Makers members will be entered for multiple chances to win prizes where they can trial new onboard experiences and even attend the naming ceremony and sailing in November 2025.

What does being on dream makers involve?

You're probably pretty busy and wondering what all is involved in Dream Makers. Solid question. Celebrity says that Dream Makers will be weighing in on design and programming topics via polling, instant win games, and more. There will be lots of chances to win prizes along the way including a trip for two to Xcel's naming ceremony which will be in November 2025.

Okay but What Exactly will I get to Give Input On?

• Choosing textiles, managing interior design elements and curating service offerings;

• Picking their favorite dishes and beverages, choosing table settings and shaping dining concepts; and

• Providing input on headline shows, curate props and costumes, select playlists and partake in selections to appoint pivotal entertainment positions onboard.

Sounds fun, doesn't it?!

How much does it cost to participate in xcel dream makers?

Of course it's free! You're helping Celebrity by telling them exactly what's going to make you most happy when you sail Xcel. It costs as much or as little time as you care to participate. :)

Celebrity Ascent Cruise Reviews

Read All Celebrity Ascent Reviews here

how do i sign up for Dream Makers?

Signing up for Xcel Dream Makers currently involves submitting your email here, which adds you to the Dream Makers newsletter. Once the program is live you will be able to register!

When does Dream Makers Start?

Xcel Dream Makers is set to go live February 8, 2025.

When is Celebrity xcel's Maiden Voyage?

Celebrity Xcel will sail out of Fort Lauderdale for a 5 night Western Caribbean Maiden Voyage on November 18, 2025. There are a handful of spaces left for that exciting event, tap below to snag one of the last staterooms!

Book Here - Xcel Maiden Voyage

After that, 7-night itineraries will alternate with stops in Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. Reach out for the best price and current availability.

MEDITERRANEAN Cruise Blogs

Explore Cruise Blogs for Crete, Athens, Sicily, Naples, Rome, Mykonos, Istanbul and more!

When will CElebrity xCel be in Europe?

Exciting news for Europeans and anyone who has been waiting to do a European cruise! Xcel will be sailing seven-to-11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens in Summer 2026! Some sailings will include overnight stays on the exotic Portuguese island of Madeira.

Request Xcel Europe 2026 Deals

Review of Celebrity Xcel Dream Makers

I'm excited for the Xcel Dream Makers program. I think it's a genius marketing technique and will also be fun for cruisers to feel they are having a real-time involvement in decisions that they will later be able to feel a sense of pride about when they sail Xcel.

I hope the rewards are many for the free insights that will be given by presumably thousands of paying cruisers and it would be great if at the end of the program every participant was awarded something whether it be some onboard credit for their next Celebrity Cruise, some wifi, or maybe to try out any Specialty Dining options they had weighed in on. ;)

What do you think? Would you sign up to be a Dream Maker?

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Traveling through food

Celebrity Cruises Dream Makers PRizes

Win big with Celebrity Dream Makers!

Celebrity xcel 2-night Naming Sailing

Poolest Day Ever Event

2025 Celebrity President's Cruise

​Xcel Dining Sneal Peek

The Bazaar Private Sneak Peak

Daily Instant Win Prizes

​Want to be part of Celebrity Cruises Dream Makers?

​More about Celebrity Dream Makers:

The Bazaar - Celebrity Xcel Review

What is the Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel?

Is The Bazaar Replacing Eden?

Which deck is the Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel?

Is Mosaic Restaurant Free or Paid on Xcel?

Is Spice Free or Paid on Xcel?

The Market at The Bazaar on xcel

The Bazaar Concept Review on xcel

When is Xcel coming to EURope?

When is Xcel's Transatlantic Sailing?

Celebrity announces River Cruises in 2027!

Celebrity River Cruises

What is Celebrity River CruiseS?

Why is Celebrity getting into River Cruises?

What is the difference between ocean cruises and river cruises?

When is the first Celebrity River Cruise Sailing?

How many Ships Will Be In the Celebrity River Cruises Fleet?

What will the ships look like?

Will you be sailing Celebrity River Cruises in 2027?

What is Celebrity Xcel Dream Makers?

Celebrity xcel Dream Makers Video

​What is Xcel Dream Makers?

​What does being on dream makers involve?

Okay but What Exactly will I get to Give Input On?

How much does it cost to participate in xcel dream makers?

Celebrity Ascent Cruise Reviews

​how do i sign up for Dream Makers?

When does Dream Makers Start?

When is Celebrity xcel's Maiden Voyage?

MEDITERRANEAN Cruise Blogs

​When will CElebrity xCel be in Europe?

​Review of Celebrity Xcel Dream Makers

What do you think? Would you sign up to be a Dream Maker?

Cruise Drink Packages

Oh, Hey!

​Check out this recent cruise post:

​Check out this recent Restaurant Review:

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Xcel Dining Sneal Peek

Want to be part of Celebrity Cruises Dream Makers?

More about Celebrity Dream Makers:

What is Xcel Dream Makers?

What does being on dream makers involve?

how do i sign up for Dream Makers?

When will CElebrity xCel be in Europe?

Review of Celebrity Xcel Dream Makers

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