Celebrity's Newest Ship, The Xcel, Does Just That!

The Xcel stays true to the signature design and layout that defines the Edge-class sister ships. From the moment you step onboard, the décor, artwork, and overall ambiance create an immediate sense of excitement—exactly the kind of feeling that makes Embarkation Day so special. Several key spaces have been reimagined, including the transformation of Eden into The Bazaar—which includes Spice and the Mosaic Restaurant—the addition of The Attic within The Club, a new hydra room along with the Vitamin D Sun Deck in the Thermal Suite, the debut of Bora in place of the Rooftop Grill, and, of course, the intriguing IYKYK experience waiting to be discovered.

While I always appreciated the openness and tranquility of Eden, I instantly fell in love with the energy and vibrancy of The Bazaar. The moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by color, culture, and a lively atmosphere that celebrates the history and spirit of the destinations on your itinerary. The Bazaar has become a true hub of activity—whether you’re joining in on crafts and games, listening to live music, enjoying festival-style performances, grabbing a flavorful bite at Spice, or savoring a more elevated meal at Mosaic. Spice has replaced the Spa Café but truly takes it to another level, offering more diverse dining options and beverages. Celebrity also added a glass atrium within Spice, giving diners a beautiful ocean view. Lastly, don’t miss The Market at The Bazaar with one-of-a kind items from local artisans. Above The Club, the newly created Attic adds another layer of fun. Outfitted with pool tables, dart boards, foosball, and arcade games, it’s the perfect place to tap into your playful side. Open 24/7, it invites you to rediscover the kid in you at any hour of the day or night.

The Bazaar

Marketplace at The Bazaar

The Atrium seating area at Spice

The Thermal Suite is always a must-do for me on every Celebrity sailing, so I was thrilled to learn that the Xcel expanded the space with additional heated loungers—always the most coveted spots—and a long-awaited hydrotherapy experience. Celebrity also transformed an otherwise unused area into the new Vitamin D Sun Deck, complete with loungers, couches, and plenty of seating. The extra thermal beds, positioned to overlook the sun deck and the ocean, are a brilliant enhancement—think heated reclining loungers perfect for reading, unwinding, or slipping into a blissful nap. The Vitamin D Sun Deck itself is a gem: a quieter, more serene alternative to the ship’s busier outdoor spaces, ideal for soaking up the sun or retreating into the shade.

Poolside monkey sculpture

Thermal beds in the Thermal Suite

Hydra Room in the Thermal Suite

Unfortunately, the Hydra Room didn’t quite live up to my expectations. With only four in-water loungers and a relatively compact layout, it felt a bit too limited. While the water was pleasantly warm, it wasn’t quite warm enough to deliver that full, indulgent hydrotherapy effect. The concept is excellent, but the space could definitely benefit from a larger footprint and a bit more refinement.

Bora is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that brings a breezy al fresco vibe to both brunch and dinner. The signature highlight of brunch is the much-talked-about Bloody Mary bar, complete with an array of creative add-ins. While I’m not a Bloody Mary fan myself, several people in my group tried them and were underwhelmed—they found the flavor surprisingly bland, and not a single glass was finished. On the upside, I thoroughly enjoyed my entrée selections, and, overall, our group felt that most of the dishes were very good. We didn’t have the chance to try dinner, so I can’t speak to that experience. I will miss the Rooftop Grill—it was one of our favorite specialty dining venues—but as someone who loves a good brunch, Bora was a welcome and enjoyable addition to our cruise.

IYKYK is a hidden gem! Celebrity did not leak any information about this space in any of their promotions about Xcel. Only once the initial guests arrived on board did its existence make its way to social media. If you ask any crew member about IYKYK, they will deny knowing anything. So if you want in on the secret, keep reading... Within the club in the back corner you will find a photo booth. Step into the booth to enjoy a series of photos, just like in the old days before cell phones with cameras. When your photos are done and you are exiting the booth (not from the way you entered) you are transported to a 1920s speakeasy! Think smoky room and flappers. You are seated and have just one hour to enjoy some unique (or standard if you prefer) adult beverages along with a salty snack. Dancers roam the room, and I have heard sometimes there are magicians as well. When your hour is up, you are escorted out and you are once again in the present. Truly a unique and fun experience that I highly recommend.

IYKYK

There are also other happenings that Celebrity has added not only to Xcel but also to other ships in their fleet. Shine the Night lives on: an outdoor dance party where guests are asked to dress in their sparkliest outfits and "shine the night." Poolest Day Ever happens on Caribbean itineraries with music, games, and a whole lot of poolside fun during the day and into the night. And for Country Music Night, don't forget to pack your dancing boots and cowboy hats.

The Xcel is currently sailing out of Port Everglades. If you are flying to Fort Lauderdale to board the ship, be sure to book arrival at least one day prior to ensure you don't miss the cruise due to airport delays.

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