Celebrity Cruises may not have the sheer number of ships as Royal Caribbean or Carnival, but what it does have is one of the newest and most stylish fleets in the premium cruise category.
With 16 modern ships sailing—and one more on the way—Celebrity combines cutting-edge design with upscale experiences. The line is split into two key categories:
- Mainline ships offering traditional cruising with a luxurious twist
- Expedition vessels designed for remote, adventure-filled voyages like the Galapagos
So, whether you’re craving a high-end escape in the Caribbean or a once-in-a-lifetime trip through the Pacific, here’s your guide to the newest Celebrity Cruises ships, from latest to earliest—including what makes each one special.
Newest Ship in the Works: Celebrity Xcel (2025)
| Class | Edge Class (5th ship) |
|---|---|
| Launch | Expected in November 2025 |
| Type | Mainline Cruise Ship |
| Status | Under construction |
| Size | 141,420 GT |
| Passenger Capacity | 3,260 |
Celebrity Xcel is set to be the fifth and likely final ship in the award-winning Edge class. Originally ordered back in 2019, her launch was delayed due to the global pandemic and is now expected in 2025.
While not much has been publicly revealed yet, Celebrity Xcel is expected to continue the Edge-class tradition of:
- Expansive outward-facing design
- Open-air spaces that bring the sea closer
- Enhanced wellness and dining experiences
Initial itineraries will focus on the Caribbean, sailing from Fort Lauderdale. Given the success of Ascent and Beyond, Xcel is expected to set a new standard for design, tech, and luxury in the Celebrity fleet.
Given no other class in Celebrity’s fleet has more than five ships, this may wrap up the Edge series—though future surprises could always be in store.
1. Celebrity Ascent (2023)
The newest Celebrity cruise ship to hit the ocean, Celebrity Ascent is the fourth ship in the sleek Edge class.
She began sailing in late 2023, making waves with her expanded open-air design and premium resort vibe.
Why it’s special:
- More outdoor lounges and alfresco dining than any previous Edge-class ship
- Refined stateroom designs for added comfort
- Cruises the Caribbean in winter and Mediterranean in summer
With a steel-cutting ceremony in 2021 and a float-out in January 2023, Celebrity Ascent set sail in December—just in time to offer sun-drenched holidays in style.
2. Celebrity Beyond (2022)
One year before Ascent, Celebrity Beyond pushed the Edge concept—well, beyond. She’s the third Edge-class ship and introduced expanded public areas, wider open decks, and even more spots to soak in the sea views.
What makes her unique:
- The first ship in the fleet to offer Starlink satellite internet (faster, more stable WiFi)
- Larger outdoor venues and reimagined spa experiences
- Sails in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and even offers some Panama Canal itineraries
She’s a favorite for cruisers who want luxury amenities without losing connection to the real world—or social media.
3. Celebrity Apex (2020 – delayed debut in 2021)
Celebrity Apex was delivered on schedule in 2020, but due to the pandemic, her maiden voyage didn’t happen until 2021.
She’s the second Edge-class ship, almost identical in design to her sisters—but with a twist in itinerary.
Where she sails:
- Winter: Eastern Caribbean
- Summer: Northern Europe, including:
- Norwegian Fjords
- British Isles
- Iceland
Notable features:
- Full Edge-class luxury: Magic Carpet, Eden, The Retreat
- Now upgraded with Starlink WiFi like her newer siblings
- Ideal for guests wanting Edge-class elegance on cooler-climate cruises
4. Celebrity Flora (2019) – Galapagos Expedition Mega-Yacht
Stepping away from the Edge-class for a moment—Celebrity Flora is a completely different kind of cruise experience.
This small ship (more accurately a mega-yacht) is purpose-built for expedition cruising in the Galapagos.
Top features:
- Just 100 passengers for an ultra-exclusive feel
- Built specifically for the Galapagos with eco-conscious design
- All-suite accommodations and open-view lounges
- Onboard experiences include marine wildlife talks, Zodiac excursions, and star-gazing sessions
If you’re looking for a bucket-list-worthy trip that still delivers Celebrity’s signature class, Flora is unmatched.
5. Celebrity Edge (2018)
The ship that started it all, Celebrity Edge debuted in 2018 and introduced a revolutionary design to the premium cruise space.
Edge innovations include:
- The Magic Carpet – a floating platform that moves decks and changes functions (bar, lounge, tender access)
- Eden – a three-story, glass-walled venue blending dining, entertainment, and nature
- The Retreat – a private enclave for suite guests with its own pool and restaurant
Still going strong, Celebrity Edge sails in the Caribbean and Western Mediterranean, and remains a top pick for those who want the full Edge-class experience without waiting for a newer ship.
6. Celebrity Reflection (2012)
- Class: Solstice
- Tonnage: 135,366 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 3,046
- Debut: 2012
As the last and largest ship in the Solstice Class, Celebrity Reflection features five specialty dining venues, a Sky Observation Lounge, and an exclusive Reflection Suite. Her design balances modern elegance with a social atmosphere.
Good to know: She offers one of the largest passenger capacities outside the Edge class, making her perfect for those who love spacious public areas but aren’t quite ready for the newest mega-ships.
7. Celebrity Silhouette (2011)
- Class: Solstice
- Tonnage: 122,210 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,886
- Debut: 2011
Celebrity Silhouette is a guest favorite for its chic Lawn Club and Sunset Bar. She underwent a major refurbishment in 2020, adding new restaurants and upgraded suites, keeping her fresh and competitive with newer vessels.
She sails popular itineraries in the Caribbean and Europe, and her design feels modern and intimate, especially for suite guests who enjoy The Retreat.
8. Celebrity Eclipse (2010)
- Class: Solstice
- Tonnage: 121,878 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,850
- Debut: 2010
Celebrity Eclipse continues the Solstice-class tradition with a laid-back atmosphere and thoughtful design touches.
She features the famous Hot Glass Studio, Tuscan Grille, and the signature Lawn Club with real grass.
While she hasn’t been revolutionized yet, Eclipse still shines with timeless appeal and quality service on routes like South America, Alaska, and Hawaii.
9. Celebrity Equinox (2009)
- Class: Solstice
- Tonnage: 121,878 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,850
- Debut: 2009
Known for her frequent Caribbean itineraries, Celebrity Equinox has been a fan favorite for over a decade.
Her refurbishment in 2019 added new restaurants, updated decor, and a refreshed Retreat area for suite guests.
She’s often praised for her excellent service, diverse dining, and the overall balance she offers between size and intimacy.
10. Celebrity Solstice (2008)
- Class: Solstice (Lead Ship)
- Tonnage: 121,878 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,850
- Debut: 2008
The original Solstice-class ship, Celebrity Solstice brought in many firsts—like the real-grass Lawn Club and AquaClass staterooms focused on wellness.
Though she’s the oldest of her class, she remains a strong choice, particularly for Alaska sailings, where her Sky Observation Lounge becomes a prime viewing spot.
11. Celebrity Xploration (2007)
- Class: Expedition
- Tonnage: 320 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 16
- Debut: 2007
Tiny but mighty, Celebrity Xploration is one of Celebrity’s most exclusive vessels, sailing only in the Galapagos Islands.
Originally built in 2007 and later acquired by Celebrity, this 16-guest catamaran offers an intimate, yacht-like experience.
Perfect for small groups or charters, she focuses on natural exploration and personalized service with expert-led excursions and locally inspired cuisine.
12. Celebrity Constellation (2002)
- Class: Millennium
- Tonnage: 91,000 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,170
- Debut: 2002
Often nicknamed “Connie” by fans, Celebrity Constellation is a compact ship with loyal repeat guests.
She underwent a significant refurbishment in 2017, adding many of the popular features found on Solstice-class ships.
Constellation is often found sailing Mediterranean itineraries, offering a classic cruising experience with refined touches and excellent service.
13. Celebrity Summit (2001)
- Class: Millennium
- Tonnage: 91,000 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,158
- Debut: 2001
Celebrity Summit stands out as one of the most recently revitalized Millennium-class ships.
Her 2019 “Revolution” renovation gave her a fresh, contemporary look, with updated cabins, redesigned lounges, and a modern spa.
She’s a solid choice for Caribbean and Bermuda cruises, especially for travelers who value mid-sized comfort with upscale service.
14. Celebrity Infinity (2001)
- Class: Millennium
- Tonnage: 91,000 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,170
- Debut: 2001
Celebrity Infinity shares the same layout and capacity as her Millennium-class sisters.
She’s had multiple updates and often sails South American and Mediterranean itineraries, including Greece and Turkey.
Travelers love her classical ambiance, attentive crew, and ease of navigation compared to larger ships.
15. Celebrity Xpedition (2001)
- Class: Expedition
- Tonnage: 2,842 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 48
- Debut: 2001
Sailing the Galapagos Islands, Celebrity Xpedition offers immersive nature-driven voyages.
Smaller than even the Millennium-class ships, this yacht-like vessel provides a luxurious expedition experience for fewer than 50 guests.
It’s ideal for travelers looking to blend eco-tourism with personalized comfort in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
16. Celebrity Millennium (2000)
- Class: Millennium
- Tonnage: 91,000 GT
- Passenger Capacity: 2,137
- Debut: 2000
The oldest ship in the Celebrity fleet, Celebrity Millennium still earns praise for her warm service and smaller ship feel.
Thanks to a full refurbishment in 2019, she features updated suites, refreshed dining spaces, and modern décor.
She’s a favorite for those who want a quieter cruise with fewer crowds, sailing mostly in Asia and Alaska.
Celebrity Cruises Ships & What Makes Each One Unique
All Edge-class ships share the same core features—Magic Carpet, The Retreat, infinite verandas, and cutting-edge style. But a few subtle differences set them apart:
| Ship | What’s Unique |
|---|---|
| Celebrity Xcel (2025) | Fifth Edge-class ship – newest tech and design; launching with 2025 Caribbean sailings |
| Celebrity Ascent (2023) | Most open-air spaces in the fleet; enhanced outward-facing design and modern suites |
| Celebrity Beyond (2022) | Widest outdoor decks; largest Retreat area; first with Starlink internet |
| Celebrity Apex (2020) | Edge luxury with Northern Europe focus; retrofitted with Starlink WiFi |
| Celebrity Flora (2019) | Purpose-built for Galapagos; all-suite yacht with eco-conscious design |
| Celebrity Edge (2018) | First Edge-class ship; introduced Magic Carpet, Eden, and Infinite Verandas |
| Celebrity Reflection (2012) | Largest Solstice-class ship; only one with Reflection Suite and extra specialty dining |
| Celebrity Silhouette (2011) | Updated in 2020; refreshed Retreat and new restaurants added during Revolution upgrade |
| Celebrity Eclipse (2010) | Features Hot Glass Studio and expansive Lawn Club; popular for scenic itineraries |
| Celebrity Equinox (2009) | Caribbean-focused ship with 2019 upgrades and strong service reputation |
| Celebrity Solstice (2008) | First Solstice-class ship; introduced Lawn Club and AquaClass staterooms |
| Celebrity Xploration (2007) | Tiny 16-passenger catamaran; ideal for private Galapagos expeditions |
| Celebrity Constellation (2002) | Compact Millennium-class ship; updated for modern comfort and Mediterranean cruises |
| Celebrity Summit (2001) | Fully refurbished in 2019; upgraded lounges, cabins, and entertainment spaces |
| Celebrity Infinity (2001) | Classical ambiance and mid-size charm; often sails Mediterranean and South America |
| Celebrity Xpedition (2001) | 48-guest Galapagos vessel; offers boutique eco-luxury exploration |
| Celebrity Millennium (2000) | First Millennium-class ship; completely refreshed in 2019; still sails Alaska & Asia |
No matter which you choose, the Edge-class ships deliver an upscale, design-forward cruise unlike anything else in the mainstream premium space.
Celebrity Cruises Ships Ranked by Launch Year
| Ship Name | Launch Year | Ship Class | Style | Guest Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Xcel | 2025 (upcoming) | Edge | Premium/Mainline | ~3,260 | Cutting-edge tech, newest Edge features, Caribbean |
| Celebrity Ascent | 2023 | Edge | Premium/Mainline | ~3,260 | Newest ship experience, Caribbean & Mediterranean |
| Celebrity Beyond | 2022 | Edge | Premium/Mainline | ~3,260 | Largest public spaces, The Retreat, Starlink WiFi |
| Celebrity Apex | 2020 (2021 sail) | Edge | Premium/Mainline | ~2,910 | Northern Europe cruises, Edge design + Starlink |
| Celebrity Flora | 2019 | Expedition | Small-ship Luxury | 100 | Galapagos adventure in a purpose-built mega-yacht |
| Celebrity Edge | 2018 | Edge | Premium/Mainline | ~2,918 | First Edge-class ship, Magic Carpet & Eden |
| Celebrity Reflection | 2012 | Solstice | Premium/Mainline | ~3,046 | Largest Solstice ship, Reflection Suite, fine dining |
| Celebrity Silhouette | 2011 | Solstice | Premium/Mainline | ~2,886 | Lawn Club, Revolution upgrade, Europe/Caribbean |
| Celebrity Eclipse | 2010 | Solstice | Premium/Mainline | ~2,850 | Scenic cruises (Alaska, South America), glass studio |
| Celebrity Equinox | 2009 | Solstice | Premium/Mainline | ~2,850 | Caribbean expert, solid mix of luxury and comfort |
| Celebrity Solstice | 2008 | Solstice | Premium/Mainline | ~2,850 | First of its class, classic Celebrity experience |
| Celebrity Xploration | 2007 | Expedition | Yacht-Style Adventure | 16 | Private/group Galapagos charters |
| Celebrity Constellation | 2002 | Millennium | Premium/Mainline | ~2,170 | Mediterranean-focused, smaller ship lovers |
| Celebrity Summit | 2001 | Millennium | Premium/Mainline | ~2,158 | Post-revamp luxury with Caribbean & Bermuda routes |
| Celebrity Infinity | 2001 | Millennium | Premium/Mainline | ~2,170 | Mediterranean, Greece & Turkey fans |
| Celebrity Xpedition | 2001 | Expedition | Yacht-Style Adventure | 48 | Intimate Galapagos eco-cruising |
| Celebrity Millennium | 2000 | Millennium | Premium/Mainline | ~2,137 | Oldest ship, budget-friendly Asia & Alaska voyages |
Which Celebrity Ship Should You Choose?
Here’s how to match the newest Celebrity ship to your personal travel style:
✅ Choose Celebrity Ascent if…
- You want the most up-to-date cruise experience
- You love balmy weather in the Caribbean or Mediterranean
- You’re booking a honeymoon, anniversary, or special event
✅ Choose Celebrity Beyond if…
- You love big spaces and expanded pool decks
- You want fast WiFi for working remotely or posting pics
- You’re planning to cruise the Panama Canal or Croatia
✅ Choose Celebrity Apex if…
- You’re sailing to Northern Europe or the British Isles
- You want Edge-class luxury with fewer crowds
- You appreciate modern design but don’t need the newest ship
✅ Choose Celebrity Flora if…
- You want a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Galapagos
- You prefer a small-ship, high-touch experience
- You care about eco-tourism and sustainable travel
✅ Choose Celebrity Edge if…
- You want a full Edge experience but at a slightly lower fare
- You’re cruising the Western Med or Caribbean
- You love unique venues like Eden and the Magic Carpet
Final Thoughts: The Celebrity Fleet Is Getting Better with Age
Celebrity Cruises has been redefining modern luxury with its Edge-class ships. Even though the line isn’t building new ships at the pace of Carnival or Royal Caribbean, it doesn’t need to—the Edge series is still some of the most innovative and stylish cruising available today.
And with Celebrity Xcel arriving in 2025, there’s still more to come.
If you want:
- A big-ship experience that doesn’t feel crowded
- Elegant spaces without being formal
- Gourmet dining and stylish design
…then any of these ships will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed.
