We’ve gone on the record of being big fans of Celebrity Cruises. The luxury-focused line has some of the most sophisticated ships at sea that offer a high-end experience without feeling too stuffy or formal. To us, they are one of the best lines for adults on the ocean.
Now, it looks like the same can be said for rivers too.
We told you months ago how Celebrity was branching out from ocean cruises and into river cruises. Today, we’re getting more details on exactly what passengers can expect, and the images are stunning.
Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker Bring Celebrity Cruises to the River
Celebrity revealed numerous renderings of the first of its new river ships, Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker.
The cruise line says they “combine the iconic design of Celebrity Edge Series ocean ships with European charm” and even come with a patent-pending design that provides more space per passenger.
Specifically, open decks will offer the most outdoor space of any river ship and allow passengers to take in sights all around them. The renderings show an entire top deck dedicated to outdoor seating, complete with large umbrella-shaped shade structures.
And anyone that’s sailed the Edge class of ships is familiar with the Magic Carpet that sits off the side of the ship and moves up and down. The new river ships will offer “Magic Edge” — cantilevered dining areas on the ship. This seating will actually rotate out over the edge of the ship while you eat.
But it’s really the interior of the ship that will have your jaw dropping.
A High-End Atmosphere You Have to See
Frankly, the design is some of the most stunning we’ve seen on a cruise ship anywhere. From marble accents to wood trim to the color scheme, it doesn’t look like a ship but rather living in a relaxing spa.
Rooms come with king-sized beds, a complimentary stocked mini-bar, luxury linens and even bathrobes and slippers. But what stands out is the thought and effort put into bringing natural light indoors.
Specifically, Celebrity is introducing a new style of room, which it calls the Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite. Not only do these rooms have a wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling window to let in lights and views, but it also has a massive over-the-bed skylight to give you even more natural light. There’s simply no other room like it on the water. You can literally go to sleep under the stars.
Bookings Open Soon, But Only 86 Cabins Onboard
These new ships have already opened up Priority Booking Access but won’t sail until 2027. (Note: As we publish, Celebrity says that priority access is already closed “due to unprecedented demand.”)
If you’re wanting to sail, then you should book sooner rather than later as the bookings look to be competitive. Public booking will be available “soon” according to the cruise line.
River ships have only 86 cabins, so space is limited and the passenger count is small. The initial trips will sail the Danube and Rhine rivers on 7-day trips. This will give passengers the chance to explore places like The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland, depending on their specific trip.
Prices start around $3,000 according to the brochure.
