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Cruise line review

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's ships are big, modern and stylish, and the clever way to sail them is in The Retreat: a ship within a ship with its own restaurant, lounge and sun deck, at a price well below the ultra-luxury lines.

The line

Celebrity is a premium line with a modern design focus and a fleet of around 15 ships. The Edge Series, Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent and Xcel, is the one to know; a sixth, Celebrity Xcite, is due in 2028. Itineraries cover the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Asia and Australia, plus the Galápagos on small ships.

The ships

The Edge Series ships carry over 3,000 guests, with outward-facing design: the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the side of the ship as a bar or tender dock, and a rooftop garden. They are big ships, so expect a lively pool deck on sea days.

Cabins and suites

Edge staterooms have an Infinite Veranda, where the glass wall drops to turn the room into a balcony. Suite guests in The Retreat get butler service, priority everything and the most spacious rooms, up to the two-storey Edge Villas with plunge pools.

Food and drink

The main restaurants are good, with several specialty venues at extra cost. Retreat guests dine in Luminae, a private restaurant, and have premium drinks and Wi-Fi included.

Onboard life

Lively but polished in tone, with design-led bars, a spa, theatre shows and live music. Families do sail, especially in school holidays, which is another reason The Retreat is worth it.

Excursions

A full menu of paid excursions in every port. The Galápagos ships run expedition-style outings with naturalist guides, included in the fare.

What is included

The standard fare covers meals in the main venues and entertainment; the All Included fare adds drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities. Retreat suites include premium drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities and Luminae.

Who will love it

Couples who want a modern big ship with excellent design and are happy to book a suite for a calmer, more exclusive experience. Sail outside school holidays for the quietest decks.

Questions

What is The Retreat on Celebrity?

A suite class with its own lounge, sun deck and restaurant, Luminae, plus butler service and premium drinks.

Which are Celebrity's newest ships?

The Edge Series: Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent and Xcel, with Celebrity Xcite due in 2028.

Is Celebrity family-friendly?

Yes, families sail, especially in school holidays. Choose term-time dates and a suite for a calmer trip.

Are drinks included on Celebrity?

On the All Included fare and in Retreat suites. The basic fare does not include alcoholic drinks.

Last updated 30 October 2026

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