4 minute read
I’ve always said the best cruises are the ones where sea days feel just as fun as port days. Celebrity Cruises clearly agrees, because their upcoming ship, Celebrity Xcel, is debuting four all-new venues that seriously raise the bar. Whether you’re into spa days, pool parties, arcade nostalgia, or just hunting for the perfect souvenir, these spaces were made for travelers who want more than just a pretty view.
Here’s what’s waiting onboard when Xcel sets sail this fall.
Poolside Just Got a Personality
The Celebrity Pool Club has always been a favorite, but now it’s getting a full glow-up. Think stylish new rooftop shade, plush sunbeds, and a “pool valet” who delivers towels, sunscreen, card games—basically everything short of your next cocktail (though they’ve got that covered, too).
If you’re sailing the Caribbean, don’t miss the Poolest Day Ever. It turns the last sea day into a floating beach party, complete with island music, DJs, games, and custom drinks served in mini Patrón bottles or straight out of coconuts. After dark, the Shine the Night party keeps the vibes alive with sunset cocktails and starlit bites.
Neon Nights in the Arcade Lounge
There’s a brand-new space onboard called Attic at The Club, and it’s everything you loved about the arcade as a kid, just cooler and open 24/7. Pac-Man, NBA Showtime, Golden Tee, darts, foosball, shuffleboard… you get the idea. It’s a social playground for grown-ups, and yes, you can book it out for private events like karaoke or golf sim challenges.
A Spa That Feels Like a Sanctuary
I love a good spa day on a cruise, but Celebrity Xcel is taking things up a notch. Their newest Thermal Suite now includes the Hydra Room, a bubbling, jet-powered mini-pool paired with heated loungers and total Zen energy. It’s part of their most expansive spa yet, and includes access to the Vitamin D Deck, an outdoor sun deck with panoramic views and complimentary drinks to keep you cool while you soak in the sea breeze.
Between the 120+ treatments, a next-level salon with a bubbles bar, and a skincare lab that gives you personalized recommendations, it’s pretty much wellness paradise at sea.
A Store That’s Actually Worth Browsing
I’m not usually one to hype a gift shop, but the Celebrity Flagship store isn’t your average cruise merch stop. It’s half store, half mini-museum, with interactive displays, throwback cruise artifacts, and customizable gear like cocktail kits and embroidered robes. A lot of the merch is exclusive to Celebrity Xcel, so you might want to make some room in your suitcase.
Even More Coming to Xcel
Those four are just the start. Celebrity Xcel will also introduce Bora, a Mediterranean-inspired al fresco restaurant, plus The Bazaar, a new marketplace-style dining experience. And for entertainment lovers, they’re promising the most dynamic lineup of shows, live acts, and performances the brand has ever done.
If you want to help shape what’s next, check out the Dream Makers program where guests vote on games, design ideas, and even shop selections. You can sign up at dreammakers.celebritycruises.com.
When and Where to Sail
Celebrity Xcel launches this November out of Fort Lauderdale, offering 7-night Caribbean itineraries. Then she heads to Europe in summer 2026 for sailings out of Barcelona and Athens, including overnight stays in Madeira.
