celebrity cruise ship guide

The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries

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Celebrity Cruises is the cool kid among the seven big cruise lines that account for the majority of cruises taken by North Americans.

Operating relatively big but not giant vessels, the Miami-based brand is known for some of the most stylish and cutting-edge ships in the cruise business. It's a line that is all about high-end design, innovative features (just wait until you read about the "magic carpet") and on-trend restaurants that are aimed at sophisticates, not a party crowd.

Celebrity ships also are significantly more all-inclusive — and even a tad more upscale — than the ships operated by the other big cruise lines. Since late 2020, the line has included unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi and daily gratuities in its base fare as part of a new Always Included fare structure .

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Still, for now at least, Celebrity ships are firmly anchored in the mass-market category. The line in recent years has often used the term "luxury" to describe its offerings. However, the size of its ships, their service levels and — perhaps most importantly — their price points are all a lot closer to what you'll find at such mass-market lines as Princess Cruises and Holland America than at true luxury brands such as Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

In our book, that's not a bad place to be.

With relatively inclusive fares for some sailings at Celebrity starting under $100 per person, per day, there's a good argument to be made that the line is one of cruising's great values. It may not be a luxury line. However, it's the line you take if you want a taste of the all-inclusive and upscale experience of a luxury line without paying $1,000 per person, per day.

3 things TPG loves about Celebrity Cruises

• The stylish design of its ships.
• Its industry-leading shipboard spas.
• Its inclusion of drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities in base fares.

What we could do without

• Confusing company marketing calling it a "luxury" brand.

The Celebrity Cruises fleet

Of the seven big cruise lines that account for the majority of cruises taken by North Americans, Celebrity has one of the simplest fleets.

At the core of the brand are 12 relatively big ships that can be bunched into just three groups, or "classes," as they are known in cruise industry lingo.

The newest group of ships in the line is the Edge Class, consisting of just three vessels that have been unveiled since 2018 — each holding around 3,000 passengers. If you're in the "newer is better" camp when it comes to cruise ships, this is the Celebrity ship class for you.

Celebrity currently has plans for five Edge Class vessels in all. Two more of the vessels are expected to be constructed by 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Eventually, the abovementioned rollouts will make the Edge Class the new core of the Celebrity fleet. For now, though, that title falls to the line's five-ship Solstice Class series. If you take a Celebrity cruise now, the odds are you'll be on one of these ships.

Just a tad smaller than the Edge Class ships, the Solstice Class vessels were unveiled between 2008 and 2012.

The last grouping of relatively big ships in the Celebrity fleet is the Millennium Class, made up of four significantly smaller vessels that debuted between 2000 and 2002.

In addition, Celebrity operates three very small vessels in the Galápagos that, together, make up a fourth grouping of vessels. As we'll explain below, these three vessels are far different than the line's 12 main ships and constitute what is, in effect, a separate business for the brand.

The 12 main vessels in the Celebrity fleet are not nearly as big as the vessels operated by Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises — the three lines best known for giant ships. The biggest Celebrity ship, Celebrity Beyond, measures around 141,000 tons. That's nearly 40% smaller than the biggest ships operated by Royal Caribbean.

Related: The 4 types of Celebrity Cruises ships, explained

Celebrity's Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships are even smaller at around 122,000 tons and 91,000 tons, respectively.

All of Celebrity's 12 main ships carry around 2,000 to 3,000 passengers apiece, based on double occupancy. That's several thousand passengers fewer than the biggest ships at Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and MSC Cruises.

The line's three Galápagos-based vessels are downright tiny, as they must be to operate in the Galápagos. The government of Ecuador, which controls the archipelago, does not allow vessels that carry more than 100 passengers to sail in the destination.

Celebrity's three Galápagos-based vessels carry just 16 to 100 passengers each.

In all, Celebrity's 15 vessels have 26,733 berths, when counting just the two main berths in every cabin (excluding extra pull-down bunks and pull-out sofas). That puts Celebrity among the smaller of the big lines catering to North Americans. One of its main rivals, Princess, has nearly twice as many berths (45,816), based on double occupancy. The world's biggest cruise line, Royal Caribbean, has more than three times as many berths (88,307).

Destinations and itineraries

Celebrity sails almost everywhere in the world, but its heaviest presence is in the Caribbean, Europe and Alaska. In a typical summer, the line will deploy seven of its 12 main vessels to Europe while sending another three to Alaska. That leaves just two vessels that Celebrity typically will assign to Bermuda and Caribbean sailings.

During the winter, the line will move most of its ships to the Caribbean, but also send a few to Asia, Australia and South America.

For the coming winter, 10 of the line's 12 main ships are scheduled to sail in the Caribbean. There will be one ship apiece in Australia and South America. The line has canceled its normal deployment of one ship to Asia due to continuing COVID-19-related travel restrictions in the region.

The line's three small Galápagos-based vessels never leave the region, in keeping with rules governing cruise vessels in The Galápagos.

In all, Celebrity ships sail to nearly 80 countries in a typical year, hitting all seven continents. They visit more than 300 different ports and destinations. Those are all large numbers, but they're not quite as large as what you'll find at some of Celebrity's biggest competitors. Celebrity doesn't offer quite as big a range of itineraries as Princess and Holland America , for instance.

Among the line's itineraries, you'll find everything from two-night sampler cruises to the Bahamas to 18-night voyages to Hawaii and the South Pacific. Celebrity isn't known for the sort of longer, multi-month voyages and around-the-world sailings that are a hallmark of the Princess and Holland America schedules. Most of the line's itineraries are in the one- to two-week range.

In North America, Celebrity ships generally sail out of Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Tampa in Florida; Boston; Cape Liberty, New Jersey (one of the ports for New York City); San Juan, Puerto Rico; Los Angeles and San Diego; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle; and Seward, Alaska.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Celebrity cruise

In Europe, Celebrity ships mostly sail out of Southampton in the U.K.; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Barcelona; Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); Venice and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) in Italy; and Lisbon, Portugal.

Who sails Celebrity Cruises?

Celebrity appeals to a somewhat older demographic than some of its best-known rivals in the world of relatively big ships (think: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Norwegian). This is, in part, because its onboard offerings are not aimed at families nearly as much as the onboard offerings of the latter brands.

Unlike Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC Cruises and Norwegian, Celebrity doesn't load up the top of its ships with sprawling waterparks, go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and other flashy, family-focused diversions.

Instead of bustling attractions, the top decks of Celebrity ships offer lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas where you can enjoy the experience of being at sea without a lot of hustle and bustle. Inside, the experience revolves around dining, classic showroom entertainment and a classy bar and music scene — just as it has on Celebrity ships for years.

It's the sort of experience that draws a lot of couples in their 40s, 50s and 60s, but not necessarily a lot of families. The average age of a Celebrity passenger is a tad north of 50.

Still, while families with younger children usually gravitate to one of the above-mentioned lines with more family-friendly activities, that doesn't mean you can't bring your kids on a Celebrity cruise. The line does offer a relatively robust children's program (more on that below).

While not huge with families with young children, Celebrity does draw a fair number of multigenerational family groups. It's one of the lines you take if you want an affordable ship that will appeal to your 70-year-old parents as much as your 12-year-old kid.

Cabins and suites

Celebrity ships offer a wide range of cabin categories at a variety of price points. You'll find everything from relatively low-cost, windowless "inside" cabins measuring just 181 square feet (perfect for vacationers on a tight budget) to massive, multi-room suites that are 10 times that size (and priced to match).

At the high end, some of the accommodations are truly stunning. They include two so-called Iconic Suites on each of the line's new Edge Class ships that measure more than 2,500 square feet, including outdoor balcony space. That's roughly the size of the average American home.

Located at the very top front of the Edge Class vessels, above the bridge (meaning you'll have a better view than the captain in these rooms), the Iconic Suites offer breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass windows. Each has two bedrooms, a dining room and a living room. Master bathrooms are true stunners with massive whirlpool tubs, marble-lined showers and two sink areas.

The Iconic Suites aren't the only over-the-top suites on the Edge Class ships. Each of the vessels also has two multi-room Penthouse Suites that measure more than 1,575 square feet, as well as the line's first two-deck-high suites. Dubbed Edge Villas, the latter accommodations (there are six on each ship) only measure 950 square feet, including balcony space, but may be the most alluring cabins on the ship, with stunning sea views from both a downstairs living room area and an upstairs bedroom area.

Related: Everything to know about Celebrity cabins and suites

The Edge Class ships are, by far, the line's most suite-heavy ships, with a whopping 190 suites of different types on each vessel. The Edge Class ships also offer hundreds of special spa-themed AquaClass cabins and Concierge Class cabins that come with special amenities. However, you'll find plenty of suites and special AquaClass and Concierge Class cabins on Celebrity's other ships, too.

In general, Celebrity offers a lot more high-end accommodations on its ships than some of its rival lines — particularly Princess. It's one of many differentiators between the brands.

Celebrity is also known for one of the most innovative new cabin types in the cruise industry, the "infinite veranda" cabin. Found only on Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, these are standard size balcony cabins with outward-facing walls that are almost entirely made of glass.

Billed as an industry first, the new glass-walled cabins were made possible by a rethinking of the way the load-bearing walls of cruise ships are constructed.

Notably, the top of the glass walls in the infinite veranda cabins slide down at the flick of a switch to create a balcony-like area — an innovation that, until recently, had only been seen with cabins on river cruise ships. The balcony-like area can be closed off from the rest of the cabin by closing bifold doors.

Celebrity's Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships have more traditional balcony cabins.

Both the Edge Class and Solstice Class are known for ships with an inordinately large percentage of cabins that feature balconies. About 81% of cabins on Edge Class ships include balconies. On the Solstice Class ships, the percentage is even higher, at 85%.

About 57% of cabins on Millennium Class ships have balconies.

Restaurants and dining

Every Celebrity vessel has one and sometimes up to four main restaurants where meals are included in the fare, and these dining rooms are at the heart of the dining experience on Celebrity ships. Many passengers have all or most of their dinners in one of these main restaurants.

For dinners in these main restaurants, you must sign up for either Select Dining, which is where you can show up whenever you want, or Traditional Dining, where you have a fixed table and time for dinner.

Note that only a certain number of passengers can choose Select Dining per sailing. If this is what you want, it pays to book your cruise early, as Select Dining is typically available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Also, note that the Select Dining process works a little differently on the three Edge Class ships, which have four different main restaurants with varying themes.

Every Celebrity vessel also has a casual buffet eatery where meals are included in the fare. Near the main pool area on ships, these are called Oceanview Cafe, and they typically offer a wide range of dishes.

Another included-in-the-fare option found on Celebrity ships is the deck-top Mast Grill, which serves burgers, hot dogs and the like.

Every Celebrity ship also has at least a few extra-charge eateries. On many ships, you'll find the line's signature Italian restaurant, Tuscan Grille. It serves up handmade pasta, artisanal meats, flatbread pizzas, seafood and other Italian specialties in an elegant setting and comes with a flat fee of $30 per person.

Some Celebrity ships also have a classic French restaurant called Murano, which comes with a flat fee of $40 per person. The menu here features everything from veal tenderloin to herb-crusted lamb. There's also a six-course tasting menu that comes with wine pairings for each course at an additional cost.

Other extra-charge venues found on at least some Celebrity ships include Raw on Five, which serves sushi and sashimi, and The Porch, which offers a raw bar with oysters and lobster rolls. Some ships feature a Parisian patisserie-like venue called Le Grand Bistro that offers light fare such as ham-and-cheese baguettes during the day and gourmet charcuterie and cheese boards with carafes of wine in the evening.

In addition, passengers staying in spa-focused AquaClass cabins on Celebrity ships have access to an exclusive restaurant with a spa-inspired menu called Blu (there's no per-visit charge; the cost is folded into your AquaClass fare). There's also an exclusive restaurant on Edge Class ships for passengers staying in The Retreat suites called Luminae. It features dishes created by star New York chef Daniel Boulud.

Celebrity's newest ship, Celebrity Beyond, has its very own Daniel Boulud restaurant called Le Voyage.

Entertainment and activities

Celebrity ships are loaded with entertainment and activities that range from Broadway-style theater shows and live music to glassmaking classes. Top decks of Celebrity ships have lots of pools, lounge areas and — on some ships — park-like retreats with real grass. Just don't expect a floating amusement park. Unlike some big-ship lines, Celebrity isn't topping its vessels with waterslides, go-kart tracks, ropes courses and other family-focused attractions.

Theaters and shows

There's no shortage of theater and lounge entertainment on Celebrity ships. On a typical night, you might find a flashy, fast-paced production show playing in the main theater, a comedian performing in a secondary lounge and live music on offer in several more venues.

In many cases, the main theaters on Celebrity ships are quite elaborate, with Broadway-level lighting and special effects, and the productions housed within the theaters are elaborate, too.

Typical productions include "Elyria," an adults-only, fashion-forward fairytale with a sultry late-night vibe, and "A Hot Summer Night's Dream," where you'll be immersed in a light-hearted journey that fuses music with extraordinary acrobatics and, yes — a little bit of Shakespeare.

Celebrity also is known for a partnership with American Ballet Theatre that brings exclusive performances from American Ballet Theatre performers on select ships, dance classes with the performers and "meet and greet" events with the performers.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Celebrity ships are filled with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including some that are quite unusual.

Celebrity's three newest ships (Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex), for instance, have fanciful, tropical garden-inspired lounge, dining and entertainment areas at their backs called Eden that are like nothing else you will find at sea.

Soaring three decks high and lined with glass walls, the Eden venue on each of the ships comes alive at night with a bar that serves up unusual concoctions. It also offers a place to relax or grab a quick bite during the day in a garden-like setting with stunning views of the ocean. The famed Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola helped create Eden's look.

Such multi-use venues are a big thing for Celebrity. On Celebrity's Solstice Class ships, you'll find 200-seat venues called Celebrity Central. The space can be configured for everything from late-night comedy shows and movie showings to cooking demonstrations and trivia contests. The venues are also used for lectures by guest speakers.

The Celebrity Central venues on Solstice Class ships are in "entertainment courts" that are also home to nightclubs called Quasar. The retro-chic hot spots draw a late-night crowd that comes to dance to tunes spun by resident DJs. On some nights, the venue morphs into a "silent disco" where passengers wear headphones to sway to piped-in music.

Celebrity ships are also known for their martini bars, each called — simply enough — the Martini Bar. Another standout feature of Celebrity ship interiors is a wine-focused venue called Cellar Masters that stocks more than 400 wines for tastings. A particularly cool feature of the Cellar Masters venues is that they have self-serve Enomatic wine dispensers. Just swipe your card and you can get a sampler of wine in varying sizes.

Every Celebrity ship also has a casino and spas are big on Celebrity ships. Very big.

The spas on Celebrity's new Edge Class vessels offer nearly two dozen treatment rooms, an extensive beauty salon and a thermal suite with heated stone beds, a Turkish-style steam bath, an infrared sauna and a meditation aromatherapy room.

The spas on the Edge Class ships are also known for some of the most wide-ranging treatments found on any cruise ship. Celebrity Edge was the first cruise vessel in the world to offer a collection of advanced treatment tables that included the MLX Quartz, the Spa Wave MLW Amphibia and the WellMassage4D (if you're a spa aficionado, you'll know what these are). The WellMassage4D, notably, allows for a "zero gravity" immersion massage.

In all, the Edge Class spas offer more than 120 different treatments, including acupuncture and salt stone therapy.

Deck-top attractions

The top decks of Celebrity ships are notable for what they don't have: There are no pedal-powered sky rides or ropes courses like you'll find on Carnival ships or the go-kart tracks that top some Norwegian vessels. There are no surfing simulators, sky diving simulators, rock climbing walls or zip lines of the sort found on Royal Caribbean vessels.

While Celebrity operates relatively big ships, it has eschewed the "amusement park arms race" that has been taking place between many of the lines operating big, resort-like ships.

Instead, Celebrity has gone for a much more serene feel with its top decks. For starters, they're covered with a lot of relaxing (and usually very stylish) pool and lounge zones. They also feature some of the most unusual relaxation zones you'll find anywhere at sea.

Each of the Solstice Class vessels, for instance, is home to what just may be the most innovative deck-top feature ever conceived: a half-acre "Lawn Club" area with real grass.

Marvels of cruise ship engineering, Lawn Clubs are maintained by full-time greenskeepers who oversee a complex filter and irrigation system to keep the grass looking shipshape. With Adirondack chairs, hammocks and lawn games such as bocce and croquet, these Lawn Club areas offer a quiet, park-like respite from the activity in other parts of the ships.

If you want, you can walk across the Lawn Clubs barefoot.

Among other unusual deck-top features, some of the Solstice Class ships also have a glass-making pavilion next to the Lawn Clubs that is home to glass-making classes.

Another innovative feature found atop Celebrity ships is the giant orange platforms the size of tennis courts that hang over the side of the three Edge Class vessels.

We should say that these platforms, called Magic Carpets, are at the top of the Edge Class ships "at times." That's because they're designed to move up and down the side of the ship to serve multiple functions ranging from a bar and 90-seat restaurant to a tender boat boarding area. Sometimes they're at the top deck of the vessels. Sometimes they're halfway down the side of the ship or near the waterline. You just never know where you'll find them.

The top decks of each of the Edge Class ships also have a plant-filled "playscape" called the Rooftop Garden with an outdoor eatery called the Rooftop Garden Grill. Inspired by childhood playgrounds, they're designed to "awaken the inner child in everyone," the line has said.

Children's programs

While it doesn't draw as many families with young children as Royal Caribbean or Carnival, Celebrity offers an extensive children's program on ships that gets high marks from parents.

Dubbed Camp at Sea, the program brings free, supervised activities daily for children ages 3-12 in dedicated spaces on board Celebrity vessels.

Celebrity splits children in the program into three age groups: Shipmates (ages 3-5 years), Cadets (ages 6-9 years) and Captains (ages 10-12 years). Each group has its own age-appropriate activities, ranging from art time and song singing for Shipmates to scavenger hunts and pizza making for Captains. The activities can vary from day today and cruise to cruise. Celebrity likes to say it has no set agenda for camp activities and changes things up regularly based on the interests of the particular kids in the program on each cruise.

Camp at Sea counselors welcome parents with toddlers to visit for playtime during special Toddler Time hours. However, parents of toddlers can't leave them at the program unattended. Toddler Time activities include playtime with toys and mingling with other children.

Celebrity ships also offer activities for teens (ages 13-17) at dedicated Teen Clubs. Teens can hang out at the clubs with other children their own age and also take part in organized teen sports competitions, silent disco parties, culinary classes and Xbox tournaments.

While the free programming for children ages 3-12 ends at 10 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at shipboard Camp at Sea centers past 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. for a supervised "slumber party." This is essentially a group kid-sitting service. It currently costs $6 per hour per child.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

A passport is required for all international itineraries. If you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a passport for many sailings out of U.S. ports (including sailings to Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Hawaii and Mexico, and most sailings to the Caribbean). Instead, you can travel with an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification. A few other forms of identification, such as a passport card, also are acceptable.

Passports must be valid for at least six months. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Gratuities for room stewards and restaurant servers are now included in the line's new Always Included fare structure, as are most gratuities for bar bills. A 20% gratuity will be added when a passenger orders a drink that's not included in the line's Always Included fare structure, as well as for minibar purchases, and spa and salon services.

Celebrity has been rolling out faster Wi-Fi systems with land-like speeds across its fleet in recent years, such that you now can stream video on most ships. The line's new Always Included fare structure has access to a basic internet plan called Surf for no extra charge. It will let you surf the web, send messages and use social media apps (but not stream video). A much faster option called Xcelerate that allows for video streaming and video chats is available for an extra charge. The current rate is $35 per day.

Carry-on drinks policy

Celebrity allows you to bring two bottles of wine per cabin onto ships at boarding at no charge (for consuming in your room; you'll be charged a $15 corkage fee if you want to bring it to an onboard restaurant or bar to drink).

Smoking policy

On all ships, smoking (including the use of electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas. It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. Passengers caught smoking in their cabins will be charged a $250 fine per occurrence.

Unlike some lines , Celebrity does not build self-service launderettes onto its ships. Vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry cleaning services.

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets. A growing number of vessels also have USB ports in cabins.

The currency used on all Celebrity ships is U.S. dollars, no matter where they are in the world. All vessels operate on a "cashless system," with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a SeaPass card that you can use to make charges.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on Celebrity sailings from North American ports. The drinking age on sailings from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand is 18.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine.

During the evenings, most nights are designated as "smart casual" nights, which means that — in restaurants and the theater, at least — a T-shirt and shorts won't do. But to Celebrity, smart casual doesn't mean anything fancier than pants or jeans with a short-sleeve sport shirt for men, and a skirt, pants or jeans with a casual top for women.

Two nights a week on seven-night sailings, Celebrity upgrades the dress code to "evening chic," which is a new take on the old cruise ship formal night that is a lot less formal. The line says women should feel comfortable wearing a cocktail dress, or a skirt, pants or designer jeans with an elegant top. For men, evening chic nights could mean pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt or sweater. A sport coat or blazer is optional.

Celebrity Cruises' loyalty program

Celebrity has a point-based frequent cruiser program, the Captain's Club, that has six tiers, ranging from Preview (at 0 points) to Zenith (3,000 points or more).

The number of Captain's Club points you earn for cruises will vary depending on both the length of the sailings and the type of cabin you book.

When staying in the most basic cabins, such as windowless "inside" cabins, you'll earn 2 points for each day you sail. When staying in a top suite, you can earn as many as 18 to 24 points per day.

Staying in balcony cabins, which the line calls Veranda cabins, will get you 3 points a day.

There's also one more way to earn Captain's Club points. In 2020, Celebrity launched a new program called Power Up Points that let Captain's Club members get bonus points by filling out online surveys, participating on social media or booking specific promotions.

Taking part in such activities will get you Power Up Points, which then can be converted into Captain's Club points at a ratio of 10 to 1. That is, for every 10 Power Up Points you get, you'll get 1 additional Captain's Club point.

As is typical with cruise line loyalty programs, lower tiers don't bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. You'll get things like access to a loyalty desk (at the Preview tier) or an invite to a private party (at the Classic tier). But higher levels of the program start to be enticing.

The third-to-highest tier, Elite, brings such perks as access to the Captain's Club Coffee Lounge, where you can enjoy a coffeehouse-style breakfast each morning, and a complimentary bag of laundry on every sailing.

Elite Plus kicks things up by offering additional discounts for onboard services (including a 15% discount on specialty dining cover charges); and free cappuccinos, lattes, espresso and tea throughout your sailing.

But the ultimate perk for Captain's Club members comes when you reach the top Zenith tier. You'll get a free seven-night Bermuda or Caribbean cruise in a balcony cabin. Yep, that's right: a free cruise.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity's Captain's Club loyalty program

Note that, in contrast to airline frequent flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. So, yes, the perks with lower tiers aren't great. But it's not as difficult as it might at first seem to hit the more rewarding higher level tiers in just a few years if you're cruising a lot.

Indeed, a Celebrity passenger staying in suites on relatively long sailings could hit the Elite level in just a few cruises.

How much does a Celebrity cruise cost?

Celebrity ships are very reasonably priced. They're not the least expensive vessels out there, but they're not pricey by any means. It's possible to find a week-long Celebrity voyage to the Caribbean or even Europe starting under $1,000 per person, not including taxes and fees — at least in the offseason. For 2022, some week-long Alaska sailings were selling for under $500 per person.

As of the date of this story's posting, for instance, seven-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale to the Western Caribbean in August were starting at just $899 per person, not including taxes and fees of $192.78. That works out to just $156 per night, per person with taxes and fees for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

For such a rate, you'll get a windowless "inside" cabin on a ship. Cabins with ocean views on the same sailings start at $999 per person, and cabins with balconies on the same sailings will set you back at least $1,249 per person. But that's still not all that much for a cruise.

As you might expect, pricing for ships generally will be lower during offseason periods such as September, October, November (not including Thanksgiving week) and parts of December. You can end up paying considerably more for a cabin during peak summer months or over the winter holidays.

The timing of when you book also can matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also will give you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Celebrity ship, you'll pay extra for some things — but not as many things as you might think. As part of Celebrity's new Always Included fare structure , you'll get unlimited drinks (cocktails, wines by the glass, beer and sodas), unlimited Wi-Fi and daily gratuities included as part of the base fare. You'll pay extra for some premium drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions and a few other things — unless you've bought a package for some of these items in advance. Most onboard activities such as theater shows are included in the fare.

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to CelebrityCruises.com to make a booking directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They also can help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure that Celebrity is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who knows all of the many cabin categories on its ships and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see them firsthand.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and 3 points per dollar on dining.

Bottom line

Operating relatively big but not giant vessels, Celebrity offers an elegant, stylish product at a not-too-crazy-high price. While it often markets itself as a "luxury" product, that's not really the case. It's a mass-market line with aspirations of being something more. However, it stands out among the mass-market lines for many of its upscale touches, from the many spacious suites on its ships and its impressive shipboard spas to its new, more all-inclusive fare structure.

If you're looking for a relatively big ship with lots of amenities that will offer a taste of the all-inclusive and upscale experience of a luxury line (without paying the sky-high fares of a luxury line), it's a fine choice. Just don't expect the sort of service levels that are found on true luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn .

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What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Here’s what you need to know about every Celebrity Cruises ship.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is among our readers' favorite mega-ship ocean lines — coming in at No. 1 in 2022 and No. 2 in 2023 as part of our World's Best Awards (WBA) — and it's easy to see why. This WBA Hall of Fame honoree truly shines with its sophisticated, tasteful decor and sleek onboard spaces, including swanky lounges, dazzling bars, gourmet specialty restaurants, and contemporary suites. Almost all Celebrity ships, except the three Xpedition-class vessels, offer standard amenities like casinos, retail shops, spas, and Broadway-level shows and entertainment. There's also the adults-only Solarium and The Retreat, the latter of which is reserved exclusively for suite guests. Paul Brady , Travel + Leisure ’s news director and cruise expert, told us, “Because its ships offer so much to do, Celebrity is a fantastic choice for families, who can choose from a huge array of well-designed staterooms and suites. Groups of friends, too, will find much to like, thanks to the brand's fantastic dining (and drinking) options.”

Meet the Expert

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on all things cruise.

Kari Becker is a travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels.

With a fleet of 16 ships, it can be tricky to determine which Celebrity ship is best suited for your specific needs.Travel advisor Kari Becker of Marvelous Mouse Travels explains, "Whatever your taste, there is a perfect Celebrity cruise to meet your needs." She continues, telling T+L, "There are three main classes: the Edge, Solstice, and Millennium classes, all with unique features, benefits, and advantages." The Millennium-class ships are smaller which, per Becker, may "offer a more personalized experience." Solstice is the largest class of Celebrity's fleet, says Becker. "When designed, these ships focused on innovation, with unique spaces including a real grass lawn, and unique onboard experiences, such as glass-making classes." Last but not least is Celebrity's Edge class. Per the pro, the ships in the line's newest class are "the largest of the fleet, offering more space for additional experiences and restaurants, including a massive pool deck, floating platform at sea (aptly called the Magic Carpet), and Rooftop Garden." All in all, she says, "The Edge series is for guests looking for transformative cruising and splendor with countless gourmet restaurants and immersive entertainment." 

Ahead, we’ve listed every Celebrity ship currently in service — complete with their notable amenities, launch year, guest capacity, and other need-to-know insights — to help you determine which vessel is best for your next voyage.

Celebrity Ascent

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Edge 

Ship Capacity: 3,260 passengers

Celebrity’s newest ship is also its flashiest — in the best way possible. The Celebrity Ascent offers an expanded Retreat area (exclusive to suite guests), complete with a 40-percent-larger two-story sundeck, and the swanky Sunset Bar, which is 180 percent larger. Beyond The Retreat, there are 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, a lush Rooftop Garden, an adults-only Solarium, the three-level Eden restaurant and entertainment venue, and the Magic Carpet, a floating platform that reaches 13 stories above sea level. Finally, stay in one of the Iconic Suites, the largest in the Celebrity fleet, for the ultimate splurge. 

Celebrity Beyond

Inaugural Year: 2022

Celebrity Beyond is nearly identical to Celebrity Ascent . Both Edge-class sister ships have the same spectacular amenities and features, including a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center that’s sure to impress wellness-seekers, who will also be happy in one of the AquaClass Sky Suites, which offer in-room yoga mats and fitness equipment. It’s also worth noting that these suite guests also enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite and a dedicated spa concierge. Don’t miss the adults-only Solarium, the Rooftop Garden, the aforementioned Eden, or the Magic Carpet, which offers the best views at sea.

Paul Brady was onboard the Beyond in October 2022. “My stateroom, 9164, was a Sky Suite, with a king bed facing a private terrace and a clever roll-open mirror that let natural light into the spacious bathroom. Dining at the Daniel Boulud restaurant Le Voyage was one highlight — with seven courses — but so too were casual cocktails at Sunset Bar, with its touch of Moroccan design influence courtesy of Nate Berkus, who dreamed up the multi-level lounge,” said Brady of his experience.  

Celebrity Apex

Inaugural Year: 2020

Ship Capacity: 2,910 passengers

The second Edge-class ship, Celebrity Apex , made its grand debut in 2020. It boasts an abundance of stylish onboard spaces, including the Rooftop Garden and the adults-only Solarium. Access to the exclusive Retreat area is reason alone to book one of the contemporary suites. Other highlights include the dazzling three-story Grand Plaza, where you’ll find the aptly named Martini Bar, one of 29 bars, lounges, and restaurants aboard Apex , along with the orange-hued Magic Carpet, which offers live music and a full bar 13 feet above sea level.  

“I was fortunate to snag one of just a handful of Royal Suites on the ship, 12105, which had the look of a chic coastal Florida cottage, elevated with pops of bright green, geometric tiling, and contemporary art on the walls. The bathroom, with a deep soaking tub and spacious shower, rivaled any I’ve seen at land-based resorts,” said Brady of his November 2021 sailing. “Same with the Grand Plaza at the heart of the ship, a gathering place with a hotel lobby vibe in the best possible sense — and a glitzy Martini Bar.”

Read More : 9 Best Cruises for Couples

Celebrity Flora

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Xpedition 

Ship Capacity: 100 passengers

Cruise the Galapagos in style aboard Celebrity Flora , which made its maiden voyage in 2019. The vessel was designed with sustainability in mind: It's built with natural materials and features anchorless technology to protect the seabed. Certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park are on board to help guests gain a better understanding of the region for an educational trip. The ship also offers a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience, which includes dinner and drinks, a naturalist-guided stargazing session, accommodations in a cabana-turned-double bed, and a private breakfast. Plus, with its all-suite accommodations, the small ship has a mega-yacht feel.

Celebrity Edge

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 2,918 passengers

This sophisticated ship — the first in Celebrity’s Edge class — changed the game following its 2018 debut. What’s more, Edge was the very first Celebrity ship to feature the Magic Carpet, the multifunctional Eden, and the Infinite Veranda Staterooms, which, with the touch of a button, transform your living space into your very own private balcony.

Related: 10 Best Alaska Cruises to Take This Summer, According to Experts

Celebrity Reflection

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Solstice 

Ship Capacity: 3,046 passengers

The fifth, final, and largest Solstice-class cruise ship, Celebrity Reflection , will impress even the pickiest of travelers with its onboard activities, amenities, and spaces, including a total of 22 bars, restaurants, and lounges. In addition to The Retreat (reserved exclusively for suite guests) and The Solarium (adults-only), Reflection — along with all Solstice-class ships — boasts the Lawn Club. Located on the top deck of the ship, this chic outdoor space (which is outfitted with real grass, no less), is perfect for sipping cocktails, enjoying a leisurely lunch, listening to live music, lounging in a cabana, or playing a game of bocce or croquet. The adults-only Persian Garden area at the spa is a favorite amongst wellness enthusiasts.

Celebrity Silhouette

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 2,902 passengers

Celebrity Silhouette is elegant in every sense, from the aptly named Grand Foyer — with its marvelous marble floors, extravagant staircase (which is prime for photo opportunities), and the first panoramic oceanview glass elevators at sea — to stylish lounges like The Hideaway or the natural light-filled Sky Lounge. While suite guests gain exclusive access to The Retreat, anyone can relax in one of the swanky pool areas or the laid-back Lawn Club. Then, when hunger — or thirst — calls, passengers can take their pick of over 20 food and drink options.

Celebrity Eclipse

Inaugural Year: 2010

Ship Capacity: 2,852 passengers

An impressive modern art collection, an expansive spa, a half-acre lawn, and top-notch dining: Find all this and more aboard Celebrity Eclipse , which debuted in 2010. This Solstice-class vessel also boasts an onboard nightclub, popular among party-centric travelers, a striking Grand Foyer, and, last but not least, the Solstice Club. Located at the highest point of the ship, the Solstice Club is a haven for R&R with its canopy lounge beds — and it’s also a popular spot for morning yoga or evening stargazing sessions.

Related: 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Celebrity Equinox

Inaugural Year: 2009

Refurbished in 2019, Celebrity Equinox exudes cool. On board this stylish ship, guests can sip cocktails in style at one of several hip bars, including the Martini Bar and Slush, enjoy a picnic lunch or practice their golf swing at the half-acre Lawn Club, or soak up the sun at the adults-only Solarium or the plush lounge-lined pool area. Finally, guests should consider booking a suite to access Luminae, a swanky restaurant that serves decadent dishes designed by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud.

Celebrity Solstice

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Capacity:  2,852 passengers

The first ship in Celebrity’s Solstice class currently cruises Alaska and the Pacific Coast in style. Here, you’ll find the lush Lawn Club, the adults-only Persian Garden thermal suite, and the glam Grand Foyer. Additional highlights include the Solstice Deck, an onboard nightclub, and a slew of bars and lounges, including the wine-centric Cellar Masters, where oenophiles can learn about – and taste — a wide variety of vinos from across the globe. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Hot Glass Class, featuring professional-led glass-blowing demos.

Read More : 10 of the Best Mediterranean Cruises for Every Type of Traveler

Celebrity Xploration

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Xpedition

Ship Capacity: 16 passengers

With a passenger capacity of just 16, the Xploration is Celebrity’s smallest ship. As such, cruisers can expect an intimate onboard ambiance. When not out and about exploring the Galapagos, guests can hang in the lounge, relax in their suite (some with private balconies), and soak up some rays — or stargaze — on the hot tub-equipped sundeck.

Celebrity Constellation

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Class: Millennium 

Ship Capacity: 2,184 passengers

This 22-year-old Celebrity ship offers a more refined, subdued atmosphere compared to the line’s newer ships, which boast flashier features like the Magic Carpet. The Rooftop Terrace area serves as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor movie theater, complete with cozy furnishings coupled with mouthwatering bites and sips. Meanwhile, the adults-only Persian Garden area in the spa is ideal for wellness-seeking cruisers.

Celebrity Summit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,218 passengers

Celebrity Summit, which cruises Alaska and the Caribbean, technically dates back to 2001; however, in 2019, it received a $75-million refurbishment to bring it a little more in line with Celebrity’s newest ships, including 2018’s Celebrity Edge . Expect stylish spaces galore, including the Sunset and Martini bars, plus a sleek Rooftop Terrace where cruisers can catch outdoor flicks while basking in the ocean views.

Read More : 25 Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Tropical Vacation

Celebrity Xpedition

Ship Class: Xpedition  

Ship Capacity: 48 passengers

Last refurbished in 2018, Celebrity Xpedition was purposely built to cruise the Galapagos. The immersive onboard experience includes nightly lectures by certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park, who will be on board the entire sailing. Enjoy postcard-worthy views from the Panorama Deck, or take a dip in the hot tub on the Sunrise Deck. Passengers can choose from a handful of elegant rooms and suites; however, those who want their own balcony will need to spring on the latter.

Celebrity Infinity

Inaugural Year: 2000

Ship Capacity: 2,170 passengers

Celebrity Infinity is a favorite among laid-back cruisers — primarily couples and adult friend groups. Popular onboard hangout spots include the adults-only Solarium, the buzzy Rooftop Terrace, and, for suite guests, The Retreat. The ship also has a handful of specialty dining restaurants (in addition to complimentary ones, of course). Le Petit Chef is well worth the added fee thanks to a combination of gourmet eats and exhilarating entertainment complete with tabletop animations.

Read More : 10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

Celebrity Millennium

Inaugural Year: 1999

Ship Class: Millennium  

Don’t sleep on Celebrity’s oldest ship, which includes a handful of fan-favorite amenities and spaces such as The Retreat, the Solarium, the Rooftop Terrace, and the Grand Foyer. Last refurbished in 2019, Millennium now features a more contemporary design aesthetic, similar to what you’d find on the newer ships. There are also more than 15 bars and restaurants on board.

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Celebrity Edge Itineraries

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Discover the Best of Europe and the Caribbean with these Celebrity Edge itineraries.

A world of wonder awaits on Celebrity Edge®, an innovative ship that travels to spectacular destinations like the idyllic islands of the Caribbean and romantic cities in the Mediterranean. 

On Celebrity Edge’s itineraries you’ll visit extraordinary ports of call while sailing on the ship designed to leave the future behind. Savor delectable meals in culinary capitals throughout Europe or at one of the ship’s 29 restaurants. Experience breathtaking tropical sunsets and landscapes from the Magic Carpet®, the industry’s first cantilevered platform that soars 16 stories above the water.

Set sail from Rome and explore white-washed coasts in Greece, rich culture in Spain, and ancient ruins in Italy. Or depart from Fort Lauderdale, where you’ll find your island paradise during a Celebrity Edge itinerary to the Caribbean. After a sun-soaked day in each tropical paradise you sail to, you’ll return to luxurious accommodations, unparalleled service, and world-class dining on board.

View All Cruises on Celebrity Edge

Celebrity Cruises 2024 Capacity Breakdown

• May 21, 2024

According to the 2024 Cruise Industry News Annual Report , Celebrity Cruises will see significant capacity growth this year thanks to the first full year of operation from the Celebrity Ascent in addition to more short cruises in the Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean Group’s premium brand is growing Asia too, with

the Celebrity Millennium offering year-round itineraries in Japan and Southeast Asia, the company will more than double its presence in the area.

Also sailing to India and Sri Lanka, the 1,950-passenger vessel is also pushing up Celebrity’s capacity in the Indian Ocean.

Celebrity is betting in the Caribbean with a spike in short sailings in the region, with ships calling at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The lineup includes the 3,030-guest Celebrity Reflection, which is spending the summer offering three- and four-night itineraries to the Bahamas departing from Fort Lauderdale.

Still in North America, the company is expanding its presence in Bermuda, with the larger Celebrity Eclipse offering itineraries to the region departing from Bayonne.

The Northern/Western Europe region, as well as the Mediterranean are also seeing slight capacity reductions.

With 16 vessels in service, Celebrity Cruises overall capacity is set to increase by nearly 15 percent, Cruise Industry News ’ data shows.

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A guide to norway’s ålesund for cruise ship visitors.

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Ålesund's picturesque central waterway is just a few minutes' walk from the main cruise terminal.

Ålesund is a picturesque Norwegian city renowned for its striking art nouveau architecture—unique in Norway—and its stunning natural setting. Situated on Norway's west coast, the city serves as a prime port, one that welcomes ever-increasing numbers of people on cruise ships touring the fjords and the Norwegian coastline.

In 2023, Ålesund welcomed more than 650,000 visits from cruise ship passengers, topping the list ahead of other popular ports like Bergen, Stavanger and Geiranger.

The city's harbor facilities are well-equipped to accommodate some of the largest cruise ships in the world from the likes of Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises. On some summer days, more than one large cruise ship can be accommodated.

Cruise visitors to Ålesund will be offered excursions to the surrounding region. Most cruise ships calling at Ålesund are on a Norwegian fjords itinerary , but if your itinerary doesn't include the fjords, take advantage of the sightseeing boat tour to the stunning Hjørundfjord, a favorite of European royalty through the ages.

That being said, you don't need to take a pricey excursion to enjoy the best of Ålesund itself. The compact city is an excellent place to explore the beauty of Norway independently, without straying too far from the cruise port, which is in the heart of the city.

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Top ceo bets on a shock biden crypto flip as congress hurtles toward a crucial vote that could blow up the price of bitcoin ethereum and xrp, iphone 16 pro max all-new design upgrade promised, insider claims, discover the architecture of ålesund.

A simple walk around both sides of the central waterway is the best way to experience the city’s distinctive architecture .

A simple walk around the downtown area is the best way to appreciate the architecture of Ålesund.

This style flourished after the great fire of 1904, which led to the reconstruction of the city influenced by young local and European architects who preferred the ornate stone buildings, turrets, and whimsical facades inspired by natural motifs that were popular across Europe at the time.

Many of Ålesund’s central streets are lined with pastel-colored buildings adorned with intricate floral patterns, curved lines, and detailed reliefs that make it a visual feast regardless of your knowledge of architecture.

From the cruise terminal, walk along both sides of the central waterway towards the lighthouse Molja fyr and then to the Quality Hotel. This route showcases the finest examples of Ålesund’s distinctive architecture.

If you want to understand the story behind the architecture, visit the Art Nouveau Museum ( Jugendstilsenteret ) to learn more about the devastating fire and take a deeper dive into the artistic movements that influenced the city's renaissance.

The museum is housed in a former pharmacy, itself a prime example of art nouveau design. Visitors can join guided walking tours offered by local experts that focus on notable buildings, but these are quickly snapped up on cruise days, so arrive early for these, or seek independent options using websites such as Viator or GetYourGuide.

Your ticket also grants you access to KUBE, the art museum located in the former bank building next door.

Enjoy The View

For photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, or those simply seeking a spectacular cityscape, a visit to the city park is a must.

This well-known view of Ålesund in its spectacular natural surroundings is the reward for climbing ... [+] the Aksla steps.

Here, you'll find the base of the 400+ steps leading up to the Aksla viewpoint—a favored spot for capturing Ålesund’s most iconic images.

The breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Sunnmøre Alps and maze of waterways are hard to beat.

When you reach the summit, treat yourself to a well-earned reward at the café, where you can enjoy ice cream and snacks while soaking in the stunning surroundings.

Just bear in mind that the steps are steep, and there is quite an uphill walk before you even get to the first step. Benches and smaller viewpoints are dotted along the stairway, offering enjoyable views even if you don’t make it all the way to the top.

There is no actual railroad service in Ålesund, but a sightseeing road train operates on cruise days.

Starting from the cruise port, the tour includes parts of the downtown area and a 15-minute stop at the Aksla viewpoint, for those who don’t want to or can't make the walk.

The 'city train' is a sightseeing road train in Ålesund.

Tickets ($30) can be bought from the sales booth at the cruise port departure point.

Atlantic Sea Park

There’s lots to see in northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquarium, both inside and out. A small penguin colony gifted from Chile is the star attraction.

At more than $20, entrance isn’t cheap but it’s a worthy use of time if you have children. To make the most of your visit, check the website in advance of your visit for feeding times in the various sections.

From the cruise port, take the short walk to the bus stop Dronning Sonjas Plass to pick up bus line 1. From the stop Tuenesvegen , it’s a further 10-15 minute walk to the aquarium. Alternatively, a combined ticket including a shuttle bus is available from the sales booth at the cruise port.

Ålesund By Kayak

Explore Ålesund by kayak to see the city's striking architecture from the peaceful waters that surround it.

This vantage point provides views of quaint islands and active harbors, combining urban discovery with the calm of sea kayaking for a unique experience.

Kayak More Tomorrow provides comprehensive kayak and hiking tours throughout Norway, including a shorter 2-3 hour kayak tour around Ålesund’s waterways.

Kayak tours are a wonderful option to appreciate Ålesund's architecture from a different ... [+] perspective.

This tour offers numerous opportunities for photography and is led by a guide with extensive local expertise.

Sightseeing Bus

Regular cruisers will be familiar with the concept of a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. Passengers can use the bus as a 70-minute sightseeing tour of the city, or as transport between the major sites. The $40 day ticket is valid whichever method you choose.

The route calls at the Aksla viewpoint but also takes in many more of the city’s sights than the road train, including the Atlantic Sea Park and the Sunnmøre open-air museum.

However, departures run only every 45 minutes, so you will need to plan carefully to avoid lengthy waits. Tickets can be bought from the sales booth at the cruise port departure point.

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Meet the Boston architects who designed the largest cruise ship in the world

From a small office in post office square, wilson butler architects has been quietly changing the way people cruise for more than two decades.

L ooking back, it seems like a small innovation and not a particularly exciting one: an ice rink on a cruise ship.

But when Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas debuted 25 years ago, an ice rink on a cruise ship had never been attempted. At the time of its 1999 launch, Voyager was the world’s largest cruise ship, with 3,600 passengers, and the company needed fresh entertainment options to set it apart.

The ice rink idea was pioneering but not without its issues. Chief among them was creating and preserving ice for the rink while at sea and then keeping it level when nothing on a ship stays level. A cruise ship is essentially rattled by a constant series of small earthquakes as waves batter it. The answer to the ice rink problem came from an unlikely source: a small architectural firm in Boston called Wilson Butler Architects , which had never worked on cruise ship design before.

Since that first ice rink, Wilson Butler can lay claim to a long list of innovative cruise ship firsts and superlatives. (One trick to the rink at sea , the firm determined, is making sure the ice temperature hovers at 32 degrees so it stays malleable.) From their office in Post Office Square, the architects went on to design the largest slide on a ship (10 stories high, to be exact), the largest glass dome on a ship (covering 32,000 square feet and weighing 360 tons), the first glass-blowing studio at sea, the first concert hall at sea, the first skydiving simulator at sea, and the largest, and only, urban park on a ship with more than 30,000 real plants.

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Their most recent work can be seen on Royal Caribbean’s jaw-dropping Icon of the Seas , the largest ship in the world. The $2 billion ship holds 7,500 passengers and 2,000 crew members. For Icon, the firm created a 53-foot-diameter kinetic art installation called the Pearl that also serves as a structural support, a 700-seat aquatic theater where divers and acrobats entertain in the largest and deepest freshwater pool at sea, a 1,200-seat Broadway-caliber theater, and, staying true to its roots, the largest ice arena at sea. At first glance, the Icon, with its gallimaufry of multicolor slides, tubes, arches, decks, and domes, looks like a phantasmagoric city sprung from the mind of Dr. Seuss.

It’s an impressive achievement for an architectural firm that never set out to design cruise ships and had no background in the industry. When Wilson Butler Architects was formed in 1997, its specialty was theaters, not creating massive slides on megaships.

“Up until that point, the nature of our work had been designing and restoring theaters, like the Bushnell Theater in Hartford,” said Scott Butler, one of the firm’s founders. “So when Royal Caribbean asked if we’d be interested in designing a true theater on a ship, that seemed like a natural fit. It was probably a combination of naivete and overconfidence that led us to say yes. ”

The result of that request was a 1,350-seat theater inspired by grand 19th-century European opera halls. It looked different from anything else on a ship at the time and was revolutionary because the architects moved supports that had previously obstructed audience sightlines.

“They are by far the single most influential architectural partner we have,” said Kelly Gonzalez, senior vice president of architectural design for Royal Caribbean. “They have really gone far beyond to learn about our industry and understand its complexities. They are real partners to our company and real partners with the shipyards that we have them work with.”

Since its first project on Voyager of the Seas, the firm has designed an additional 50 ships for Royal Caribbean, plus Silversea Cruises and Celebrity Cruises , which are owned by Royal Caribbean. The architects and interior designers at Wilson Butler may have accumulated decades of experience designing cruise ships, but ironically, none of them refer to themselves as “cruise people.”

“It helps us that none of us are particularly in love with cruising,” said Rebecca Durante, an interior designer and principal at the firm. “It helps us see a lot of the negatives. We get where these people are coming from, so we’re always looking at how we can make it better for everyone, even the people who feel like they’re getting dragged along.”

Butler said the desire to offer more options for the cruise-hesitant and make the ship feel unique resulted in the Icon’s larger, monumental scale.

“We’re trying to take what people might see as getting on a tin can at sea, being rocked around, dumped on an island, and then herded like cattle back on board, and change the stereotype,” he said. “We’re looking to take that perception of a cruise ship and turn it into something that doesn’t feel the same, where there’s a richness of experiences, where foot traffic flows, where there are places to find solitude, even on a ship the size of the Icon.”

There are detractors — plenty of detractors — when it comes to the Icon of the Seas. The larger the ship, the bigger the hype, the easier the target. Its unique look led one writer from the Guardian to call it “what a human lasagna might look like.” In a piece for the Atlantic, author Gary Shteyngart wrote , “It looks like a hodgepodge of domes and minarets, tubes and canopies, like Istanbul had it been designed by idiots.”

Those opinions have not stopped brisk cabin sales (the first sailing of Icon was sold out months before it launched) and positive reviews , nor has it halted next summer’s launch of Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas , which will be larger than Icon. The Wilson Butler team designed Star of the Seas, and is working on a third sister ship, but details are hush-hush.

Wilson Butler does more than design megaships. Last year, the firm finished work on Silversea’s latest ship, the Silver Nova . The 728-passenger luxury ship prioritizes uninterrupted vistas and expansive windows so passengers can easily see the ocean and ports to connect with their surroundings. The firm has also been involved in the innovative Celebrity Edge series of ships, particularly with the futuristic, design-forward performance space called Eden.

Writer, maritime historian, and YouTuber Peter Knego confessed that he isn’t a fan of megaships but has become enamored of Wilson Butler’s designs over the years. He said he first became aware of the firm in 2016 when he sailed on the Celebrity Solstice and discovered the ship’s Lawn Club . It’s half an acre of live grass where guests can picnic, play lawn games, watch concerts, or relax.

“Solstice is probably my favorite of their work because, aesthetically speaking, it’s just magnificent,” Knego said. “You don’t even have to be on a ship to appreciate the atriums, the interiors, and the artwork. But Wilson Butler was also responsible for the Lawn Club, which sounded kind of ridiculous in concept. But when you experience it, and you’re actually sitting on a lawn 15 decks above the sea, it’s incredible.”

The architects at Wilson Butler continue to design and restore theaters and performance spaces, but they’ve seen their business come full circle. Where once Royal Caribbean was looking for a true theater at sea, theater companies are now looking to the firm to design their performance spaces with the efficiency of those on cruise ships.

“We’ve heard a few iterations of it,” Butler said. “When we did the Calderwood Pavilion at the Cyclorama, they said they hired us because they needed us to fit a theater in a very tight space, like a cruise ship. One of our recent clients, the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford, eventually revealed that they hired us because we do cruise ships and know how to move people in and out of a theater, which was one of their problems.”

“But we’ll truly know if it’s come full circle if the theater companies start asking for ice skating rinks,” Butler said with a laugh.

Christopher Muther can be reached at [email protected] . Follow him @Chris_Muther and Instagram @chris_muther.

The 12 Best All-Inclusive Cruises for 2024

When it comes to all-inclusive cruises, there are a few different options:

• Luxury cruise lines: All-inclusive cruise rates are available on luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. While more expensive than traditional cruise rates , the fares cover nearly everything, including door-to-door transfers, luxurious suite accommodations, specialty dining , premium alcoholic beverages and excursions. Plus, you don't need to show your cruise card every time you order a latte or a pre-dinner cocktail. You'll disembark the ship with very few, if any, additional charges on your final bill.
• Cruise lines with inclusive pricing: Alternatively, you can consider an upscale cruise line like Viking, which offers fares with more-inclusive pricing and some of the amenities found on board the fully inclusive lines. However, you'll still have to budget for a few expenses, such as immersive excursions and alcoholic beverages beyond wine or beer at lunch and dinner.
• Packages and add-ons: Other cruise lines like Oceania, Windstar and Norwegian offer add-on drink packages and other promos so you can create a more all-inclusive experience.

After comparing the costs between a truly all-inclusive cruise and a sailing with package pricing for the extras, the total price may be closer than you think.

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All-Inclusive Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Regent Seven Seas touts its six ships – with the newest vessel, Seven Seas Grandeur , which debuted in late 2023 – as "the world's most luxurious fleet." The line's intimate ships accommodate up to 750 guests. They feature all ocean-view suites, prestigious museum-quality art collections (including a prized Fabergé egg on the new Grandeur), and itineraries that call on more than 500 destinations around the world.

With Regent's "every luxury included" philosophy and 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares, passengers receive round-trip airfare and transfers between the airport and ship, as well as unlimited shore excursions, two- or three-night land programs (based on the itinerary), and a complimentary pre-cruise hotel package for concierge suites and higher. On the ship, enjoy a fully stocked in-suite minibar; specialty dining; unlimited fine wines, spirits and other beverages; prepaid gratuities; unlimited Wi-Fi; and free valet laundry service.

On top of personalized service, guests sailing on Regent Seven Seas cruises will enjoy immersive exploration ashore – with overnights in some ports of call – and enrichment programs. Top-notch dining includes French cuisine at Chartreuse (on select ships), Pan-Asian fare at Pacific Rim (also on select ships) and Italian fare at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen (available on Grandeur, Splendor and Explorer ), some tours and bespoke excursions, spa treatments, unique offerings, and certain wines and top-shelf liquors come with an additional cost.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Sailing on board one of Silversea's 13 ultra-luxury cruise or expedition ships commences with the line's new chauffeur experience. This door-to-door service transports guests from home to the airport and back home on the return trip. The line's all-inclusive pricing also encompasses international or domestic flights (with business class upgrades in certain destinations), pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, butler service in every suite, all gratuities, gourmet dining, and complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, including Champagne.

Guests will also enjoy a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1-to-1 – and with no more than 728 guests. Other all-inclusive perks include at least one shore excursion in each port plus onboard lectures and programming. On expedition sailings in destinations like Antarctica , all guided Zodiac tours and landings are included in the fare.

When it comes to dining on Silversea ships, gourmet options feature French, Asian and Italian cuisine along with other international fare. For a special evening, S.A.L.T. Kitchen is a new destination-focused concept on Silver Ray, Nova , Moon and Dawn . This immersive dining experience, Sea And Land Taste, was developed in partnership with the former editor-in-chief of "Saveur Magazine," Adam Sachs. The culinary offerings with S.A.L.T. also include shore excursions, where guests can tour a 500-year-old family winery and vineyard in Croatia, visit an organic farm in Denmark, or learn to make gelato in Sicily.

Expenses not covered in Silversea's fare include salon and spa services, personal training sessions, select excursions, upgraded internet packages, and special bottles of wine or liquors.

Compare Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn's seven purpose-built expedition vessels and intimate luxury cruise ships accommodate between 264 and 600 guests. The club-like atmosphere on board its ships comes with highly intuitive and personalized service with about a 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. Each suite also has a dedicated personal suite host and a suite attendant that will cater to your every whim.

All-inclusive fares include oceanfront suites with walk-in closets, living areas and luxurious bathrooms. All Seabourn Encore and Ovation accommodations feature private verandas, while 90% of the suites on Seabourn Odyssey , Sojourn and Quest have balconies. Premium and penthouse suites offer additional amenities and perks.

While aboard Seabourn Cruise Line , guests will enjoy complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, welcome Champagne, and a fully stocked in-suite bar with your personalized selections. Dining is a real treat, with several venues in partnership with renowned chef Thomas Keller, such as the line's signature restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller. Seabourn is also a member of the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy.

Other complimentary amenities on Seabourn's cruise ships include special evenings with dinner and live entertainment; a marina and complimentary water sports; "Caviar in the Surf" on select voyages; movie nights; a chance to shop with the chef at local markets; personal valet luggage shipping service; enrichment lectures; and more.

Additional expenses include a wide selection of epicurean, mindfulness and wellness excursions as well as cultural and historical bespoke tours. You can also book the ultimate underwater adventure on one of the line's high-tech submarines on the two expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Pursuit. Programs and treatments at Seabourn's Spa & Wellness are also at an additional cost.

Find a Seabourn Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages features "always included" cruise fares on its two purpose-built yachts, World Navigator and World Traveller. The line recently welcomed a third ship to its fleet for the 2023-24 Antarctica season, World Voyager. Atlas' high-end boutique ships cater to just 198 passengers and feature spacious staterooms and suites with panoramic windows or private balconies and beautiful public spaces and lounges. These small ships also have several options for dining, depending on the sailing and destination.

The all-inclusive fares cover complimentary dining; unlimited wines, craft beers and spirits; 24-hour bar service with canapes; a free in-room minibar; afternoon high tea; fresh-pressed juices and specialty teas and coffees; butler service; 24-hour room service; prepaid gratuities; cultural immersion in every port; and other perks.

Polar expedition fares cover private charter jet service, group transfers from the airport to the yacht, an Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest to take home, Zodiac sightseeing safaris, expert guided shore landings, and destination lectures and briefings.

If you're on one of the line's Epicurean Expeditions, the cultural immersion program offers complimentary special tastings, market visits and cooking demonstrations. In addition to use of the marina's water toys (on select sailings, weather permitting), guests can enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner and an alfresco Josper Grill dining experience at 7-AFT Grill. On select voyages, culinary presentations, wine tastings and other special events are hosted by an expert.

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More-Inclusive Cruises

Cruise fares with these lines include many of the amenities and perks that you'll find with the all-inclusive cruises. However, you'll still need to budget for some expenses, such as alcoholic beverages, excursions and specialty dining, depending on the line.

Viking's ocean fleet of nine 930-passenger all-veranda ships offers a nearly all-inclusive experience for guests. The upscale Scandinavian-inspired ships feature king-bed staterooms and suites with many amenities, including luxurious linens and plush robes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi – plus an in-room minibar with soft drinks, water and snacks. Higher-category staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises come with additional perks like priority dinner and spa reservations, early stateroom access, and a welcome bottle of Champagne.

Cruise fares also include complimentary dining at all the venues; one free shore excursion in every port; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; specialty teas, coffee and bottled water; access to the spa; lectures and performances; port taxes and fees; and more.

Viking also has two 378-passenger Polar Class 6 expedition vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. These ships also offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with the same amenities as their oceangoing vessels. Pricing on the expedition sailings includes Zodiac safaris, the use of kayaks, a keepsake Viking jacket, and essential gear for excursions and landings.

Select excursions, pre- or post-dinner cocktails, spa treatments, special bottles of wine, and other optional purchases come at an additional expense.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships carry a maximum of 702 guests and offer immersive experiences around the world, calling on many smaller, lesser-known ports. The line also boasts more than 380 overnights and 850 late nights in port, so guests can have dinner in town and experience more of the destination's local culture and cuisine.

Azamara's cruise fares include all meals (other than the specialty dining restaurants) with water, tea and coffee. A selection of complimentary wine, sparkling wine, beer and spirits is available throughout the voyage. Cultural evenings ashore or on board the ship and gratuities are also included in the basic cruise fare.

If you'd like to enhance your onboard experience, Azamara offers inclusive "Experience More" packages that are discounted and based on the length of the voyage.

For example, on a seven-day or shorter sailing, solo travelers can add a package for $799 that's valued at $1,114 (a savings of 28%). This value-add bundle includes $350 of onboard credit to use for shore excursions; unlimited Wi-Fi for one device; a drinks package featuring premium wines, spirits and bottled water; a $150 spa credit; and a dinner at the Chef's Table or a total of three nights of specialty dining at Prime C or Aqualina. Three bags of laundry are also included.

Guests can book similar packages for double occupancy staterooms and longer voyages. You can also choose individual beverage, dining or internet packages if you don't need the extra amenities or features of the bundled options.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' four superyacht-inspired ships are designed with adults in mind and feature 1,330 cabins (most with balconies) and 78 RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. Pricing with the adults-only cruise line includes stateroom or suite accommodations and meals at more than 20 eateries serving up international cuisine and dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs. Guests also have access to complimentary Wi-Fi; unlimited group exercise classes; nonalcoholic drinks such as water, tea and coffee; and plenty of lively entertainment.

Virgin does not offer beverage packages, but the line at times advertises special promotions that include voyage credits to cover expenses like airfare and drinks. Shore excursions and spa treatments – including skin care offerings on board Scarlet Lady in partnership with Jennifer Lopez, Virgin's chief entertainment and lifestyle officer – are some of the additional expenses not covered in the base fare.

Find a Virgin Voyages deal on GoToSea.

Add-on Packages and All-Inclusive Fares

These five cruise lines offer basic cruise fares that cover accommodations and some amenities – and you can typically find special pricing and promotional deals throughout the year.

With the optional packages, guests can create a mostly all-inclusive voyage with bundles of add-on extras, such as shore excursions, beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, gratuities or shipboard credit to cover miscellaneous personal expenses such as spa treatments or a bottle of wine for a special celebration.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania's eight small luxury ships carry between 648 and 1,238 guests. The line's newest ship – Vista , the first Allura Class vessel – debuted in Rome in May 2023. The beautifully appointed vessel features four new dining concepts, spacious standard staterooms at 290-plus square feet in size, new Concierge Level veranda accommodations for solo cruisers, an elevated mixology program and more.

Oceania's culinary program is touted by the line as "The Finest Cuisine at Sea" under the tutelage of Jacques Pépin, executive culinary director and master chef. Complimentary specialty dining is included in cruise fares on Oceania sailings. Pricing also covers airfare, still and sparkling water, specialty teas and coffees, soft drinks, and Wi-Fi on the ship.

Oceania's "OLife Choice" package provides additional value to your cruise with 2-for-1 cruise fares, free round-trip airfare and airport transfers – plus one free amenity you'll choose out of eight complimentary shore excursions, a beverage package or up to $800 in shipboard credit.

Explore Oceania Cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity offers special rates and packages throughout the year that save money over a la carte pricing – and elevate your onboard experience to be more inclusive. You'll be able to access the best deal on the added perks if you book the upgraded package before you sail, saving up to 40 to 50 percent of the actual cost.

The line's "All-Included" package bundles the most popular add-ons for cruisers: a standard beverage package for alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, unlimited basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities for the staff and crew. Pricing depends on the stateroom or suite category and sailing.

There are other options when booking a cruise with Celebrity to create a more upscale and all-inclusive experience. Guests staying in all-suite The Retreat have exclusive access to a sundeck (on select ships), a lounge and Luminae – a private restaurant that features Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud at the helm. Guests of The Retreat booking the "All-Included" package receive a premium beverage package, premium unlimited Wi-Fi, gratuities and an onboard credit.

If you book AquaClass accommodations, you'll also have access to complimentary amenities and perks, such as unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, discounts on spa treatment packages and complimentary fitness classes. In addition, you'll also find a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival (by request) and two bottles of water refreshed daily in your room. AquaClass guests also have exclusive access to the restaurant Blu. You can add the "All-Included" package to your booking, which will include the Classic Drinks Package, basic Wi-Fi and gratuities.

Passengers who want to book this "All-Included" package and are sharing a stateroom or suite will need to book the same package.

Compare Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian also offers promotional fares and special deals throughout the year that feature similar amenities and perks to what you'll find on an all-inclusive cruise. The "Free at Sea" deal bundles discounts on the cruise, free specialty dining, unlimited open bar privileges, shore excursion credits, savings on Wi-Fi access, discounts on the third and fourth guests in the stateroom, and a 2-for-1 deal on airfare.

"Free at Sea Plus" takes the package up a notch with a more comprehensive beverage selection, including top-shelf cocktails, Champagne by the glass, bottles of select premium wines at dinner and signature Starbucks coffee drinks. This option also includes unlimited Wi-Fi, additional nights of specialty dining and shore excursions.

Prices for both packages on Norwegian Cruise Line will depend on the dates, length and destination of the cruise.

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line's "Have It All Premium Cruise Package" is available to book for cruises six days or longer, excluding the line's Grand Voyages. The benefits vary depending on the length of the trip but include credits for shore excursions; the Signature Beverage Package; specialty dining at Tamarind, Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto; and a Wi-Fi Surf Package. The cost starts at $50 a day per person. 

An early booking bonus for this package includes an Elite Beverage Package upgrade, covered crew appreciation charges and a premium Wi-Fi upgrade. Holland America has other special promotions throughout the year. One of these is an early booking bonus of up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom for Mariner Society members.

Find Holland America deals on GoToSea.

Princess Cruises

"Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" packages offer guests two options to upgrade their onboard amenities from the standard Princess Cruises plan, which covers accommodations, dining, entertainment and the line's signature MedallionClass experience.

"Princess Plus" perks include a beverage package with drinks up to $15 each, Wi-Fi on one device per guest, gratuities for the crew, two premium desserts a day (think hazelnut gelato at the onboard gelateria), two fitness classes per cruise (such as Pure Barre or YogaSix) and unlimited trips to the juice bar. The cost is $60 per day per person for this middle-tier package.

Additional benefits of the highest-tier option, at $80 per person per day, include the Premier Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $20 each, and Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest. Other features of the "Princess Premier" upgrade are two specialty meals, a photo package, Princess Prizes, reserved theater seating and a Medallion accessory.

Explore Princess Cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Best Cruise Insurance Policies
• Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which One Is Right for You?

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

MSC to base second cruise ship, the Grandiosa, at Port Canaveral starting late next year

MSC Cruises will base a second cruise ship at Port Canaveral , starting late next year, boosting options for cruise passengers and boosting revenue for the port.

The MSC Grandiosa will offer alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, starting in December 2025, which will be the first sailings of that ship out of a U.S. port.

When it comes to Port Canaveral, the Grandiosa will join the MSC Seashore , which will offer three- and four-night cruises from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve , MSC's private island in the Bahamas that aims to focus on conservation of marine life.

In announcing the addition of the Grandiosa to the port lineup, Port Canaveral CEO John Murray said the port is "honored that MSC Cruises chose Port Canaveral for the North American debut of their magnificent MSC Grandiosa. Expanding their home-port fleet at Port Canaveral underscores their confidence in our partnership and shared commitment to success."

MSC Cruises USA President Rubén Rodríguez said the winter 2025-26 season will mark MSC's largest presence in the United States to date, "and our expansion at Port Canaveral is a big part of that. Ever since we started sailing from Port Canaveral in 2021, our guests have told us they love how convenient that makes it to experience MSC Cruises’ unique international flavor."

Here are more details about the addition of the MSC Grandiosa to the Port Canaveral lineup:

How big is the Grandiosa?

Another cruise terminal planned: Port Canaveral announces plans for new north side cruise terminal at cargo berth site

MSC Grandiosa — one of MSC Cruises’ "Meraviglia-plus-class" ships — will become MSC Cruises’ largest ship to home-port at Port Canaveral when it arrives next year. It is 1,094 feet long; 141 feet wide; has 2,421 cabins; and has 19 decks, including 15 decks for passengers. It has a passenger capacity of 6,334, plus 1,704 crew members. It began sailings with passengers in 2019.

In comparison, the Seashore has 2,270 cabins, a passenger capacity of 5,877 and crew of 1,648. It began sailings with passengers in 2021.

Both ships rank as among the world's 25 largest cruise ships.

What are some of the Grandiosa's features?

• 10 restaurants, including Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Sushi, Kaito Tepanyaki and L’Atelier Bistrot.
• Five pools and nine hot tubs.
• Wild Forest Aquapark.
• Enhanced MSC Yacht Club, a private luxury area of the ship for passengers who pay additional fees for access.
• Expansive MSC Aurea Spa.
• Large Broadway-style theater and Carousel Lounge for nightly entertainment.
• 323-foot-long Galleria Grandiosa promenade shopping and dining area, with an LED sky screen.

Where will the ship sail to on its seven-night cruises from Port Canaveral ?

• Eastern Caribbean: Various calls, including Nassau (the Bahamas), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (the Bahamas), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Charlotte Amalie (U.S. Virgin Islands).
• Western Caribbean: Various calls, including Nassau (the Bahamas), Cozumel (Mexico), Costa Maya (Mexico), George Town (Cayman Islands), Montego Bay (Jamaica), Falmouth (Jamaica) and Belize City (Belize).

How will the addition of the Grandiosa affect revenue at Port Canaveral?

The Grandiosa will roughly double the guaranteed annual revenue Port Canaveral receives from MSC, under a proposed amendment to the port's operating agreement with the cruise line, which Port Canaveral commissioners will vote on at their meeting on Wednesday.

Under the current operating agreement, the annual guaranteed fees payment from MSC to the port is about $6.84 million. That will increase to $13.16 million after the Grandiosa joins the lineup. It will rise to $14.52 million the following year and to $14.95 million the year after that.

The port also will get more parking revenue from MSC cruise passengers, with the second ship and resulting increased passenger counts.

Where is the Grandiosa now?

The Grandiosa currently is doing Mediterranean sailings. Before coming to Port Canaveral, the ship also will do South American sailings out of ports in Brazil.

What other cruise lines have ships based at Port Canaveral?

Carnival, Disney, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean. Two other cruise lines will be bringing ships to the port later this year — Princess in November and Celebrity in December.

How big is MSC Cruises?

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises is the world’s third-largest cruise line. It is the market leader in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Southern Africa, with a growing presence in North America and the Far East. The MSC Cruises fleet consists of 22 ships, with three new vessels due to be launched in 2025, 2026 and 2027.

The company operates in more than 100 countries around the world, offering cruises across five continents, calling at more than 300 destinations.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

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Guide to Virginia Beach for summer 2024: What…

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Guide to virginia beach for summer 2024: what not to miss.

WHAT’S NEW

Point Break Reggae Festival

JUNE 1-2: Virginia Beach will be jammin’ following the Memorial Day holiday as a new, seaside festival spotlights reggae music, food and culture. Gates open daily at noon with more than 20 concerts headlined by Grammy-nominated Rebelution and alternative rock band Sublime plus performances by Steel Pulse, Stephen Marley and Wiz Khalifa. General admission starts at $149 for 2-day tickets. pointbreakfestival.com

Virginia Beach Street Art Festival

MAY 30 – JUNE 2: Outdoor street corner sculptures that dot the primary corridors of Virginia Beach’s ViBe District add color and creativity to the walkable arts community. A group of 15 artists will paint all the neighborhood identifiers during the inaugural festival weekend, and an interactive and family-friendly community mural invites all visitors to contribute to its design. Shop a vibrant community of artisans, crafters and restaurants that add to the appeal of the free, new event just steps from the beach. vibecreativedistrict.org/event/vb-street-art-festival

Jackalope Festival

MAY 31 – JUNE 2: More than 500 athletes from eight countries bring their skills back to the beach when the nation’s premier adventure sports competition returns this summer. Adrenaline rushes fuel competitors and spectators alike with mind-blowing exhibitions in street and vert skateboarding, bouldering, freestyle motocross, BASE jumping and skimboarding. This free event held at 31st Street Park and on oceanfront courses is a perfect match for thrill seekers this summer. jackalope.tribu.co/virginia-beach

USO Experience

MAY 30 – JUNE 2: Virginia Beach is home to four military installations and thousands of U.S. military servicemembers, and the city celebrates its service with a series of live concerts and informational exhibits in the 17th and 24th Street Parks on the oceanfront. Visit the military village to learn more about the mission of each branch of service and the people who protect and defend our nation every day at this free weekend festival. 7:30 p.m. Free. uso.org/usoexperience-vb

The North American Sand Soccer Championship

JUNE 7-9: Kick off the summer with the North American Sand Soccer Championship. More than 11,000 players will rock the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Gather 10 friends to join your team and design some fun shirts or watch the fun. There are over 80 brackets seeded to support all levels of play — from the beginner to the most professional. sandsoccer.com

62nd Annual Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships

AUG. 18-25: Surfs up! Hang 10 at the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships. Gather oceanfront at 1st Street Jetty through 9th Street to watch the pros shred waves. Celebrate the surfing lifestyle and watch other competitions like beach volleyball, swimsuit and skateboarding. surfecsc.com

50th Annual Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend

SEPT. 27-29: Daily concerts at two festival stages feature more than 20 performances from local and national bands. Over 200 artisans display handmade work at Neptune’s Art & Craft Show, and 200 more food and shopping vendors fill 33 blocks of boardwalk. On the beach, you will find nearly two dozen magnificent sand sculptures created by world-renowned sculptors at Neptune’s International Sandsculpting Championship. Other weekend events include Neptune’s 8k Race, Grand Parade, Volleyball Tournament, Poseidon’s Playground, Healthy Haven, Atlantic Regatta, Youth Art Show and more. neptunefestival.com

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I visited the Guy Fieri restaurant that's on every Carnival cruise, and it was a far cry from an average fast-food joint

• I tried Guy's Burger Joint, a  Guy Fieri -created restaurant that's on all Carnival cruise ships.
• The menu has five different burgers and a wide array of toppings and sauces.
• My favorite burger had two patties — one was made of beef and the other of bacon.

Guy Fieri has a burger restaurant on every Carnival Cruise Line ship, and I decided to try it.

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its budget-friendly voyages and impressive lido-deck dining options, one of which is Guy's Burger Joint. 

The restaurant opened in 2011 as a partnership between the cruise line and Guy Fieri , a chef and Food Network personality. Now, it's a staple on every Carnival Cruise Line ship and will also be on the upcoming addition to the fleet: the Carnival Jubilee. 

When I sailed on the Carnival Elation , I decided to try the " roadside burger shack " for myself. Since Guy's Burger Joint is included in the price of the cruise, I stood in line for burgers and fries almost every day of our four-night cruise. 

We didn't need a reservation but still made sure to check the operating hours on the Carnival HUB app ahead of time. On the Elation, Guy's Burger Joint was open from noon until 6 p.m.

The menu lists five burgers, and there's a language key to decode Fieri's iconic lingo.

The restaurant is described as a "roadside burger shack," and it definitely felt like one.

The road signs were the first thing I noticed since they made the restaurant look like it actually sat along the iconic US Route 66. The red tile and dark wood paneling also played into the roadside diner theme without being too over-the-top.

The Guy's Burger Joint menu only has five burger options , but they encapsulate everything a person might want, from a plain burger to a loaded chili cheeseburger.

When I perused the menu, I noticed a lot of abbreviations. Luckily, there was a key underneath to help. It explained that "LTOP" stands for "lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle," and "SMC" is short for "super melty cheese."

The line at Guy's Burger Joint moved quickly, and it never took me more than five minutes to reach the front. 

I ordered one of every burger so I could try all of them.

When I first boarded the ship, I ordered one of every burger on the menu, along with a side of fries, to test out the menu.

That way, I could decide which burger would be my go-to selection for the rest of the weekend.

The sauce bar fell short of my expectations.

After receiving my burgers on a metal tray with Guy's Burger Joint-themed parchment paper, I headed to the sauce bar. 

Because the sauce selection at Fieri's Chicken Guy restaurant in Orlando was so impressive, I was slightly disappointed by the lack of options at Guy's Burger Joint. 

There were only five sauces: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, ranch, and chipotle mayo. 

I'm not a big fan of putting traditional condiments , like ketchup or mustard, on my burgers or fries, but the chipotle mayo always made its way onto my tray. It was creamy and spicy, making it a perfect topping for my burger and a delicious dip for my fries. 

From grilled peppers to dill pickle chips, there were plenty of burger toppings to choose from.

I loved the selection of hot burger toppings , which included grilled peppers, onions, and chili. 

The cold options — pickled peppers, dill pickle chips, sliced white onions, sliced tomatoes, and shredded iceberg lettuce — were a little less inspired but still solid.

My favorite burger had two patties, and one of them was made of bacon.

After trying the entire menu, I landed on the Pig Patty as my absolute favorite. It had two patties stacked on top of each other — one was a standard smashed patty with crispy edges and a cheese topping, and the other was made out of bacon .  

The Pig Patty was indulgent and slightly greasy, two things I look for in a burger. It had so much flavor that I didn't use any extra toppings or sauces.

Fieri's signature condiment, Donkey Sauce, was slathered all over the Straight Up burger.

I was excited to try the Straight Up burger, which had the same toasted bun and smashed burger patty as the Pig Patty. 

The toppings were supposed to include cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and a generous slathering of Donkey Sauce (Fieri's signature garlic aioli). 

When I got the Straight Up burger, it didn't have lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles, but it didn't really need them. The Donkey Sauce and cheese added plenty of flavor.

The Plain Jane burger is a safe, simple option.

The Plain Jane, a grilled patty on a bun , was the item I heard ordered most frequently in line. I got mine with cheese, but it can also be ordered with just a patty as well. 

It was a great option for kids who don't want a lot of extra dressing on their burgers. Personally, I wanted a bit more flavor, so I dipped the Plain Jane into some chipotle mayo.

The Ringer was topped with barbecue sauce and an onion ring.

The Ringer was dressed up with cheese, a crispy fried onion ring, and Fieri's bourbon-and-brown-sugar barbecue sauce, which was a bit spicy.

All of the sauces made the burger a little messy, but it was nothing a napkin couldn't fix.

The one bad thing about the Ringer was that the onion ring got soggy fairly quickly. Next time I order it, I'll ask for a few onion rings on the side and eat them along with the burger.

The Chilius Maximus was an ideal order for chili lovers.

The Chilius Maximus is loaded with melted cheese, chili, an onion ring, and Donkey Sauce.

I don't like chili, so I knew this burger would be my least favorite. So, I tapped on my dad, who loves chili burgers, to give me his honest opinion.

He said the chili wasn't too spicy, and its warm notes paired well with the garlicky Donkey Sauce. But again, the onion ring did lose its crunch after sitting on top of the moist patty.

The fries were such a hit that I ordered a serving every time I went to Guy's Burger Joint.

Nothing goes better with burgers than hot fries, so I got some every time I ate at Guy's Burger Joint. 

Even though the menu said the fries were hand-cut, they tasted more like frozen fries — but that's completely fine by me. They stayed crisp for a long time. 

They were tossed in a spice blend that tasted like a mix of salt, paprika, and possibly garlic powder. I tried to get the chef to share the recipe but had no luck.

Beyond tasting delicious on their own, the fries were a perfect vehicle to get more of my favorite chipotle-mayo sauce into my mouth.

In the span of my four-day cruise, I ate around 10 burgers.

The delicious burgers at Fieri's restaurant were a far cry from an average fast-food meal . I also loved eating at Guy's Burger Joint because it felt like stepping into Fieri's popular Food Network show " Diner's, Drive-Ins, and Dives ." 

Whenever I walked by the restaurant, there were at least three or four people waiting in line. Clearly, it resonated with my fellow cruise-goers as well.

Guy's Burger Joint might not be the fanciest restaurant on the Carnival ships, but in my opinion, it's definitely the most flavorsome.

This story was originally published on January 29, 2023, and most recently updated on May 17, 2024.

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Top Reasons Why Grandeur Of The Seas Delivers Epic Family Cruises

The best family cruises happen naturally onboard this longstanding vision class favorite.

By Amanda Mesa | Published on May 21, 2024

A cruise is always a fun vacation for the whole family. First of all, most family-friendly cruise ships are loaded with fun cruise attractions for kids, cruise activities for teens and experiences that encourage bonding across generations. Getaways at sea are convenient, too, allowing guests to see multiple destinations while only having to unpack once. Many ships also offer childcare options, ensuring a seamless, stress-free experience for if you’re cruising with a baby. But with so many cruise ships out there to choose from, how can you make sure you’re picking the best option for your crew?

One of my favorite cruise ships for family vacations is Grandeur of the Seas by Royal Caribbean. It’s an older ship, but to me that just gives it more charm. I personally love that it doesn’t have crazy water slides, glow-in-the-dark laser tag and some of the other cruise attractions for kids that larger ships are known for. Why? Because the lack of distractions makes it easier for me to spend quality time with my loved ones and for us to disconnect as a family. 

That’s not to say there’s nothing to do onboard this Voyager Class ship — on the contrary. Grandeur of the Seas offers plenty of cruise activities for families — they’re just more low-key and traditional (which I love). The ship has a massive rock-climbing wall that I love to challenge my husband to first thing in the morning when we sail together. It’s our way of making our daily workout fun. An arcade that my brother and father can spend hours in together, going head-to-head with newer games and old-school classics. And a great pool deck where we can all come together and unwind as a family, watching as bellyflop competitions and dance contests unfold throughout the afternoon. 

On a much larger cruise ship, everybody would be pulled in different directions based on their preferences — my brother making a beeline for the water slides and the glow-in-the-dark laser tag course, my golf-obsessed husband hitting the putt-putt course over and over (and over) again and my parents hunkering down on the pool deck to load up on sunshine, sea breezes and tropical drinks. But this particular cruise ship’s smaller size and classic activities help create a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere that encourages us to slow down and focus on making memories together. Here are just some of my favorite cruise activities for families sailing onboard Grandeur of the Seas .

1. Hit The Rock-Climbing Wall

2.Spend A Few Hours In The Arcade

3. Bond Over Memorable Family Meals

4. Level Up Your Poolside Bonding

5. Drop The Kiddos Off At Adventure Ocean®

6. Get Together For The Perfect Movie Night

7. Plan A Night At The Theater

Royal Caribbean is known for delivering exceptional family-friendly cruise entertainment, and this ship lives up to that reputation. Pencil in time to enjoy one of the wow-worthy productions onboard, including the stunning musical, Broadway Rhythm & Vine, and the dazzling Tango Buenos Aires — a love letter to Argentina’s most iconic dance styles. During your sailing, you can also look forward to impromptu musical performances throughout the ship, flash mobs, themed nights and plenty more. Just check your Cruise Compass daily for details.

These are just some of the many unique activities and experiences onboard Grandeur of the Seas that help set the stage for the best family cruises. I know my loved ones and I have had a blast experiencing all of the above together on past vacations at sea. That said, the cruise ship offers lots more activities, attractions and family-friendly things to do beyond these highlights. To see what else awaits onboard, check out a full run-down  or browse itineraries .

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

From shaking beds to gender-neutral toilets, we’re flying the flag for these inclusive cruises

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A holiday isn’t a holiday if it makes life more difficult, right? And for many, a cruising trip abroad can feel like a bridge too far.

If you’ve ever gone away and been tutted at or gawked at while enjoying a moment at the bar, you’d probably rather stay home instead.

Well, a number of cruise operators have been thinking about how to make their trips more inclusive and accessible to a wider variety of guests, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Whether it’s gender-neutral toilets or sign language interpreters, we’ve plucked the boats that boast a better experience for everyone from the Sailawaze Excellence Awards .

Virgin Voyages

After a day of sightseeing, what can be more entertaining than a night of drag performance? It’s par for the course at Virgin Voyages, where all staff are encouraged to express their gender identity freely.

The company prides itself on being a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ passengers with its gender-neutral toilets and hospitable atmosphere.

Founder Richard Branson has a long history of supporting gay rights, beginning with legendary Heaven nightclub in London, and the celebrations on his ships ramp up in June as themed parties are thrown and guests are presented with pride-inspired cocktails and on-deck DJs.

Celebrity Cruises

If you thought cruises were only for the silver-haired, you’d be wrong. Celebrity Cruises are a riot of colour, flying every hue of the LGBTQ+ flag – especially in June, Pride Month.

The operation, which travels to every continent, even hosted the first legal same-sex marriage at sea in 2018 and regularly holds gay weddings.

Celebrity Cruises says it promotes diversity among both staff and guests and throws regular LGBTQ+ welcome events to get the party started.

Disney Cruise Line

Family-friendly operators Disney Cruise Line prides itself on making trips accessible to those with additional needs. Guests with disabilities have access to comfortable staterooms and suites, along with a full range of services, facilities, and amenities, including auxiliary aids.

Its liners are also home to specially designed communication staterooms for guests with hearing disabilities, including a vibrating bed shaker under the mattress and an indicating panel with light signals for the doorbell, telephone calls, general alarm and fire alarm.

The ships also provide sign language interpreters for shows and entertainment.

Saga Cruises

If a loud party isn’t for you, over 50s can enjoy a more sedate voyage, with Saga Cruises providing a number of options for guests with mobility issues. A chauffeur service to and from ports is provided as standard on all trips, rooms are equipped with hearing loop systems and hoists are available to help guests in and out of the pools.

Assistance is also provided to those who need help with baggage and large print is provided in the cinema guide and daily paper, alongside Braille playing cards.

A-Rosa Cruises

Meanwhile, A-Rosa Cruises are designed with families and multi-generational groups in mind. Under-15s travel for free and family rooms have been provided so up to five can share a room while they meander along Europe’s rivers, waking up in a different city each day.

Hosts are available to take care of youngsters in the kids club, where children can choose from a variety of activities, including crafting, T-shirt design and face painting while adults can enjoy a relaxing treatment at the spa.

The rest of the nominations

Food & beverage.

Aqua Expeditions

TUI River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Explora Journeys

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

P&O Cruises

Riverside Luxury Cruises

Emerald Cruises

Amawaterways

Swan Hellenic

Princess Cruises

MSC Cruises

Royal Caribbean

Sustainability.

AE Expeditions

The Majestic Line

Portsmouth International Port

Hurtigruten

ENTERTAINMENT

Carnival Cruise Line

Marella Cruises

COLLABORATIONS

Ambassador Cruise Line

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Oceania Cruises

Havila Voyages

Pandaw Expeditions

Holland America Line

CroisiEurope

VIVA Cruises

This year, European river specialist VIVA Cruises launched its inaugural LGBT voyage, which took travellers to Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam where they could visit the world’s largest archive of LGBTQ+ history by day and party at the city’s vibrant gay and lesbian bars by night.

VIVA is a member of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, an organisation built to promote equality and safety within LGBTQ+ tourism.

Autistic travellers, those with Down syndrome and other additional needs can benefit from a specially designed holiday with Royal Caribbean. Priority check-in, boarding and departure are available to those who need it and the Autism on the Seas programme offers ‘staffed cruises’ with specialised respite sessions and private activities and sessions.

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Guests can choose from Autism-friendly dietary menus and scooters, wheelchairs and walkers are provided for on shore excursions and service animals are welcome on board.

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