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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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(2024) Celebrity Cruise Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest

Celebrity Cruises currently owns and operates 13 cruise ships, and we have them all listed here.  From the newest ship in the fleet to the oldest, we have listed and detailed every ship along with information about each vessel.

Celebrity cruise ships can be categorized into three classes: Millennium class, Solstice class, and Edge class.  The oldest ship in the fleet was built in 2000, with the latest vessel being completed in 2022.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity Cruises has been around since 1988 and merged with Royal Caribbean in 1997.

Celebrity Xcel , the fifth and last Edge-class ship, is currently under construction and is expected to be delivered in November of 2025.

Here is every Celebrity cruise ship currently operating in the fleet:

Celebrity Ascent (2023)

Tonnage:   141,420 GT Length:  1,073 feet Decks:  17 Double Capacity: 3,260

Celebrity Ascent is the fourth Edge Series vessel with Celebrity, and it debuted in November of 2023.  A few changes to the new ship in the class feature slightly more space in the Grand Plaza and more space and maneuverability at the popular Sunset Bar in the very back of the ship.  This is in addition to virtual reality games at The Club and a new Annex Private Experience area with virtual golf and karaoke for small groups.

Celebrity Beyond (2022)

Tonnage:   141,420 GT Length:  1,071 feet Decks:  17 Double Capacity: 3,260

Celebrity Beyond is the 3rd Edge-class ship in the fleet and was launched in 2022.  Her maiden voyage sailed from Southampton to Barcelona in April of 2022.  Simone Biles is the official godmother of the ship.

Celebrity Apex (2020)

Tonnage: 130,818  GT Length:   1,004 feet Decks:  16 Double Capacity:   2,910

Celebrity Apex was christened in late 2020 as the 2nd Edge-class ship with the cruise line.  The debut sailing of Apex took place out of Athens, and because of the 2020 pandemic it was delivered virtually due to travel restrictions.

Celebrity Edge (2018)

Tonnage:   130,818 GT Length:  1,004 feet Decks:   15 Double Capacity:   2,918

Celebrity Edge is the first of its class and the first to debut the innovative “Magic Carpet”, a platform on the side of the ship that allows for sea-level tender embarkation and disembarkation.  See our video of Celebrity Edge here .

Celebrity Reflection (2012)

Tonnage:   125,366 GT Length: 1,047 feet Decks:   17 Double Capacity:   3,046

Celebrity Reflection is the 5th of the Solstice-class cruise ships with the cruise line and had its maiden voyage in October of 2012.    Reflection has one more deck than the other ships in its class.

Celebrity Silhouette (2011)

Tonnage:   122,400 GT Length:   1,047 feet Decks:   16 Double Capacity:   2,902

As the 4th Solstice-class ship with Celebrity, Celebrity Silhouette launched in May of 2011.  Her maiden voyage was to Civitavecchia where she sailed Mediterranean cruises to start her career.  The ship is about 6 feet longer than the previous ships built in the same class.  See our video tour of Celebrity Silhouette here .

Celebrity Eclipse (2010)

Tonnage:   121,878 GT Length :  1,040 feet Decks:   16 Double Capacity:   2,852

Celebrity Eclipse was launched in February of 2010 as the third Solstice-class ship in the fleet.

Celebrity Equinox (2009)

Tonnage:   121,878 GT Length:   1,040 feet Decks:   16 Double Capacity:   2,852

Celebrity Equinox was the 2nd Solstice-class vessel in the fleet and was captained by the first American woman to be the captain of a mega cruise ship, Kate McCue (Captain Kate).

Celebrity Solstice (2008)

Tonnage:   121,878 GT Length:   1,033 feet Decks:  16 Double Capacity:   2,852

Celebrity Solstice was the first Solstice-class ship with Celebrity and also the first ship built by the line that was too large to fit through the Panama canal, known as a post-panamax ship.   The ship was christened in November of 2008.

Celebrity Constellation (2002)

Tonnage:   90,940 GT Length:   965 feet Decks:   13 Double Capacity:   2,184

Celebrity Constellation is the 4th and last of the Millennium-class ships with the line.   Nicknamed by some avid Celebrity cruisers as “Connie”, the ship was renamed with “Celebrity” as the prefix after simply being known as Constellation.  See our video tour of Celebrity Constellation here .

Celebrity Summit (2001)

Tonnage:   90,940 GT Length:   964 feet Decks:   12 Double Capacity:   2,218

Previously named “Summit” Celebrity Summit is the 3rd Millennium-class ship with Celebrity and was launched in March of 2001.  In 2012 the ship was refitted for $16 million, during which more cabins we added.  Again, in 2019, a dry dock allowed Summit to have 30 more cabins added to the vessel.

Celebrity Infinity (2001)

Tonnage:   91,000 GT Length:   964 feet Decks:   12 Double Capacity:   2,170

Celebrity Infinity launched in June of 2000.  Her maiden voyage sailed from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale to San Diego by way of the Panama Canal.  See our video tour of Celebrity Infinity here .

Celebrity Millennium (2000)

Tonnage:   91,000 GT Length:  964 feet Decks:   11 Double Capacity:   2,218

Celebrity Millennium is now the oldest cruise ship in Celebrity’s fleet and is the 1st of the Millennium-class cruise ships.  In 2019 the ship was refurbished during a 35-day dry dock in which 30 more cabins were added to the vessel.

Table view of Celebrity cruise ships listed newest to oldest:

Expedition vessels.

Celebrity Cruises also owns and operates three expedition ships that should be mentioned here. These ships are all part of Celebrity’s Xpedition-class.

• Celebrity Flora – This expedition ship was launched in 2019 and is the first expedition ship with the line that was built exclusively for Celebrity. The ship sails itineraries in and around the Galapagos Islands. Flora is a 100-passenger vessel that measures 5,922 in gross tonnage.
• Celebrity Xploration – This vessel is a 98 foot luxury catamaran with a gross tonnage of 3,195. Total occupancy is 16 passengers on Xploration and the ship was brought into the fleet in 2017.
• Celebrity Xpedition – Xpedition was launched in 2001. The vessel measures 2,842 in gross tonnage and can carry 48 passengers on its 296 ft long frame. It currently offers sailings to the Galapagos Islands.

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Celebrity Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Celebrity Cruises has an active fleet of fifteen ships currently with two further ships on order ( Celebrity Ascent and another Edge-class ship, currently unnamed).

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises was actually founded in 1988 in Greece, by the shipping company Chandris Group. Originally they were conducting upmarket cruises to Bermuda.

In 1997, Royal Caribbean International acquired Celebrity Cruises and during the same year, the five ships became six with the addition of Celebrity Mercury .

By 2000, the start of the brand new fleet was beginning to arrive – this was the Millennium Class ships, which began with Celebrity Millennium in 2000 and was followed by three additional ships ( Celebrity Infinity , Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Constellation ).

After that, Celebrity created the Solstice-class, which consisted of five ships. These proved extremely popular and Celebrity actually went back and ‘Solsticized’ the rest of their fleet to bring the other ships up to the same passenger experience.

In 2018, Celebrity Edge debuted with a non-traditional cruise ship bow (a Parabolic Ultra-Bow, if you may!) and The Magic Carpet (an open-air dining experience attached to the side of the ship that can move from the bottom to the top of the ship if needed and act as a platform during tender operations)

Celebrity Cruises’ Ships Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the newest celebrity ship.

Celebrity Beyond is the newest Celebrity Cruises’ ship – she joined the fleet in April 2022.

What Celebrity ship is Captain Kate on?

Captain Kate McCue is currently on Celebrity Beyond as Master of the ship.

What Celebrity ship goes to Alaska?

Celebrity Eclipse , Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium all sail in the Alaska region.

What is the biggest Celebrity ship?

Celebrity Beyond became the biggest ship of the Celebrity Cruises fleet in April 2022

What is the smallest Celebrity ship?

Celebrity Xploration is the smallest ship of the fleet at 319 GRT and carrying just 16 passengers. This ship is part of their Xpedition-class ships.

What is the oldest Celebrity ship?

Celebrity Millennium is the oldest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. She joined the fleet in 2000.

Who owns Celebrity Cruises?

Celebrity Cruises is a Royal Caribbean brand, having been acquired by them in 1997 from the Greek-owned Chandris Group.

What type of bow does Celebrity Edge have?

Celebrity Edge has a Parabolic ultra bow. A curved rather than pointed bow that actually encapsulates the traditional bulbous bow as seen on ships usually. It offers a 20% greater energy efficiency.

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all celebrity cruises’ ships new builds.

Just two of the Celebrity’s ships were built and owned by other cruise lines before being acquired by Celebrity Cruises.

The two ships are Celebrity Xpedition (previously Sun Bay for Sun Bay Cruises) and Celebrity Xploration (previously Athala II for Ocean Adventures)

Both of these are quite different ships from your usual cruise ships, they are expedition ships. This means they are much smaller and have very different passenger and operational needs because they operate in much shallower, confined waters and must adhere to even stricter environmental laws in these regions.

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

What is the difference between the edge-class ships.

Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex are both identical ships. However, Celebrity Beyond is an extra 20 meters longer and has one additional deck. This brings 179 more suites and staterooms to the ship, a bigger (40%) sundeck at The Retreat and the Sunset Bar is 180% larger.

Celebrity Ascent is due to match Celebrity Beyond in terms of size and capacity.

What is the difference between the Xpedition-class ships?

The three Xpedition-class ships that Celebrity Cruises own are all custom-built ships, with Celebrity Xploration previously operating as Athala II for Ocean Adventures.

• Celebrity Xpedition is 90m long and carries 48 passengers
• Celebrity Xploration is 30m long and carries 16 passengers
• Celebrity Flora is 102m long and carries 100 passengers

Celebrity Xpedition had its capacity reduced from 100 passengers to just 48 passengers when Celebrity Flora launched. This is to meet the Ecuador permit requirements for cruising in the Galapagos region as Celebrity Cruises only has a permit to carry 164 passengers at any one time in the Galapagos region.

Celebrity Flora is the newest of the Xpedition-class and offers just forty suites – all of which have a private balcony. The ship has six decks and has a max cruising speed of just 12 knots.

Final Thoughts

Celebrity Cruises are known for its stylish cruise ships and fantastic service. A more premium version of parent company Royal Caribbean’s offerings some would say, Celebrity aim to make cruising trendy for those who would never consider cruising.

Their Edge-class ships, with famous designers and celebrity tie-ins, aim to break to entice those that enjoy luxury hotels and travel but are yet to experience a cruise and those that like both!

If you enjoyed this article you may like our other articles that compare MSC Cruises , Royal Caribbean , Holland America Line and Cunard Line ships .

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Celebrity Cruises has 16 cruise ships. These range from large cruise ships that can accommodate over 3,000 guests, to small expedition yachts with a guest capacity of just 16.

In this article, we’ll look at the different Celebrity Cruises ships, to help you narrow down your options for your next cruise. You’ll find lists of the Celebrity ships by age and size, as well as explanations of the different classes of vessels in the fleet.

Whether you’re a regular cruiser or are considering your first cruise with Celebrity, I hope that you find this guide to Celebrity Cruises ships ranked by age and size to be useful!

All the Celebrity ships by age – newest to oldest

The following table shows all of Celebrity Cruises ships ordered by year of launch, including which is the newest Celebrity ship…

Celebrity Ascent is the newest ship

The newest Celebrity Cruises ship is Celebrity Ascent. This ship made her maiden voyage in December 2023 in the Eastern Caribbean.

Before Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond (2022), Celebrity Apex (2021) and Celebrity Edge (2018) were the newest mainstream cruise ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. Two small Galapagos expedition ships, Celebrity Flora (2019) and Celebrity Xploration (2017) are also relatively new.

There’s then a five-year gap in the construction of new ships, with Celebrity Reflection being built in 2012.

Read more: The Newest Celebrity Cruise Ships (In Order)

Ships that have sailed on

There are several ships that Celebrity Cruises used to operate that have been sold on. Meridian was the oldest, which also sailed as Sun Cruises once sold. She sank in 1999.

Horizon was sold in 2005, and Zenith in 2007. Both ships have since been scrapped.

But there are three older ships that are still sailing on. Celebrity Galaxy, Celebrity Mercury and Celebrity Century have all have several names since leaving the Celebrity fleet, and now operate for Marella Cruises as Marella Explorer, Marella Voyager, and Marella Explorer 2 respectively.

From big to small – Celebrity ships in order of size

When it comes to comparing the size of cruise ships, the best way is to consider the Gross Tonnage. This is a measurement of the internal volume of a ship. Length, guest capacity and the number of decks that are accessible to passengers may also be considered.

The following table shows the Celebrity Cruises ships ordered from largest to smallest…

The occupancy refers to how many passengers each ship can accommodate based on having two guests in each room. As some staterooms have extra beds for third and fourth passengers, the maximum occupancy will be higher.

Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond are the biggest in the fleet

The largest Celebrity Cruises ship is Celebrity Ascent, along with her twin sister Celebrity Beyond. These cruise ships have a volume of 140,600 GT and a length of 327 m, making the ships 12% larger than the next biggest ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet.

The biggest Celebrity Cruises ships at sea previously were sister ships Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex which have a volume of 129,500 GT and 16 passenger decks. However, Celebrity Reflection is 13 meters longer at 319m in length and can accommodate around 100 more guests despite having three fewer decks.

Why are some ships so small?

Celebrity Xploration, Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Flora are small ships, accommodating 16, 48 and 100 guests, respectively. In fact, Celebrity Xploration is the smallest cruise ship in the world !

These ships cruise to the remote Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador and so they need to be small to access the ports, sometimes via Zodiac boat.

The four Celebrity classes explained

Celebrity Cruises has four classes of ships, which are referred to as ‘series’. Each class of ships has something different to offer, whilst the ships within each class will be relatively similar.

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Celebrity Edge Class Ships

Celebrity Edge class ships are the newest in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. Designed to bring you closer to the ocean, they feature the Magic Carpet, an outdoor levitating bar, and Eden, a beautiful indoor area with 7,000 square feet of windows.

The ships in Celebrity Edge Class are:

• Celebrity Ascent
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Solstice Class Ships

Celebrity Solstice-class ships are large cruise ships that were built between 2008 and 2012. They each feature a half-acre real grass lawn and ice-topped Martini bars.

The ships in Celebrity Solstice Class are:

• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Reflection

Celebrity Millennium Class Ships

Celebrity Millennium-class ships were built between 2000 and 2002 and accommodate around 2,000 passengers. Ideal for destination-focussed cruise itineraries, they’re able to access the smaller ports that larger cruise ships can’t reach.

The ships in Celebrity Millennium Class are:

• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Constellation

Celebrity Galapagos Class Ships

Celebrity Cruises Galapagos ships are designed specifically for cruises around the Galapagos Islands. They feature groundbreaking technology and offer a yacht-like experience for 16 to 100 guests.

The Celebrity Galapagos ships are:

• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration
• Celebrity Flora

Read more: Celebrity Cruise Ships By Class

In January 2025, the Xpedition and Xploration will be sold by Celebrity Cruises and transfer to Lindblad Expeditions. Celebrity Flora will remain in the fleet.

Don’t confuse ship classes with stateroom classes

Celebrity Cruises also has two classes of accommodation that offer special services and amenities: the Aqua Class and the Concierge Class.

Aqua Class staterooms – In premium locations close to the spa, these come with unlimited access to spa areas and a range of perks, including welcome drinks, daily canapes, a pillow menu, bathrobes, yoga mats and priority check-in.

Concierge Class staterooms – Located on upper decks in midship locations, these come with perks such as an exclusive lunch on embarkation day, daily canapes, a pillow menu, priority check-in and access to a personalised concierge service.

The best Celebrity ships for families

All of the Celebrity Cruises ships are good for kids, so it wouldn’t be possible to say that one particular ship is the best. While you won’t find waterslides and ziplines, Celebrity Cruises kids’ clubs are great, with soft play and lots of organised activities.

They also have special resources available to help autistic guests, including children. Families can get priority boarding, and there are sensory toys to hire. Some film screenings are also low-volume and low-lighting, and autistic children can attend a kids club outside of their age range if it means they are more comfortable with a sibling.

When choosing a Celebrity cruise with children, the itinerary is probably more important than the ship. Older kids will love the Galapagos expeditions, warm weather cruises are loved by all, while parents with pre-school kids may like to look out for no-fly cruises from their nearest port.

Suggested read: The Best Cruise Ships for Kids

To conclude

There’s a Celebrity Cruises ship for everyone. The newest ships , especially Celebrity Beyond, are modern and luxurious with stunning new design concepts and the latest technology.

The older ships have all been modernised as part of a $500-million makeover. So it’s fair to say that there are no bad ships when it comes to Celebrity Cruises.

But if you’d like to see which ships cruisers rate the highest, then check out this list of the best and worst Celebrity ships according to reviews for more info.

Related Posts:

• What Does The X Mean In Celebrity Cruises?
• Celebrity Cruises Drinks Package Guide
• Celebrity Cruises Vs Carnival: Which is Better?

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Celebrity Cruises Ships by Size, Age, and Class

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Celebrity Cruises has a fleet of 16 cruise ships that offer passengers large-vessel luxury vacations.

Celebrity’s fleet has one of the biggest ranges in ship sizes. Their largest ships have accommodations for over 3,000 passengers, while their smallest has a guest capacity of only 16.

In this article, we’ll compare Celebrity Cruises ships by size, age, and class to help you decide which one is right for your next cruise vacation.

Table of Contents

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Size: Biggest to Smallest

When comparing cruise ships, size is the most popular choice. Cruise ships are typically measured using gross tonnage(GT), a measure of a vessel’s internal volume.

Although size isn’t everything, it is a quick way to assess the number of facilities, restaurants, activities, and entertainment options available on a ship.

Below is a comparison of Celebrity Cruises’ ships by size, arranged from largest to smallest:

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest

If you want to experience the latest and greatest cruise ships, you might want to sail on a newer vessel.

Newer cruise ships often have better amenities, updated decor, and more activities.

Below is a comparison of Celebrity Cruises’ ships by age, from newest to oldest:

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Class

Celebrity Cruises currently offers four classes of cruise ships.

Each class features similar designs, features, and amenities, with slight differences between sister ships.

The largest is Celebrity’s Edge-class ships. Edge-class vessels feature a unique style with their Parabolic Ultra-Bow, which offers up to 20% greater energy efficiency.

Here are Celebrity Cruises ships by class:

Celebrity Cruises Ships on Order

Celebrity Cruises currently has two Edge-class ships on order ( Celebrity Ascent and another unnamed vessel).

Celebrity Ascent is the fourth Edge-class vessel set to debut on December 3, 2023. The new cruise ship will make round-trip sailings from Port Everglades, Florida, and feature the Edge-class’ signature Parabolic Ultra-Bow.

“We’re so excited to debut the spectacular  Celebrity Ascent  in the serene setting of the Caribbean where she and all of her guests will have their moment in the sun,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, CEO and President of Celebrity Cruises.

A fifth unnamed Edge-class ship is scheduled to debut in 2025.

What is the Biggest Celebrity Ship?

Celebrity Cruises’ largest ship is Celebrity Beyond . The 140,600 GT vessel has a length of 1,004 ft, with accommodations for 3,260 guests.

What is the Smallest Celebrity Ship?

Celebrity Xploration is the smallest cruise ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet at 320 GT and has a passenger capacity of 16. The vessel is part of Celebrity’s Xpedition class which offers yacht-style sailings to the Galapagos.

What is the Newest Celebrity Cruise Ship

Celebrity Beyond is the newest Celebrity cruise ship. The Edge-class vessel joined the fleet in April 2022.

What is the Oldest Celebrity Cruise Ship?

Celebrity Millenium is the oldest cruise ship in Celebrity’s fleet. The cruise ship was built in 2000.

What Was the First Celebrity Cruise Ship?

Celebrity’s first cruise ship was the S.S. Meridian , which launched in 1990.

How Many Cruise Ships Does Celebrity Cruises Have?

Celebrity Cruises currently has 16 cruise ships in operation. Their fleet includes 13 large-sized cruise ships and three smaller yacht-sized vessels.

Why are Celebrity Xpedition Class Ships so Small?

Celebrity’s Xpedition ships ( Celebrity Xploration , Celebrity Xpedition, and Celebrity Flora ) accommodate 16, 48, and 100 guests, respectively. The Xpedition-class ships offer luxury yacht-style voyages to the Galapagos, off the coast of Ecuador. These ships are tiny because the ports they visit can only accommodate small ships.

Who Owns Celebrity Cruises?

Royal Caribbean Group owns Celebrity Cruises. The parent company also operates sister cruise lines Royal Caribbean International and Silversea Cruises.

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• Cruise Knowledge

Celebrity Cruise Ships by Age — Newest to Oldest

Doug Parker

• December 19, 2023

Celebrity Cruises, a premium cruise line known for its modern luxury ships, has a fleet that has a wide range of vessels varying in age.

The fleet is constantly evolving and being revitalized. Its ships featuring the latest in comfort, technology, and design innovations. But not to be left out are the older ships that are equally as comfortable without the newest and latest hardware.

At the forefront is  Celebrity Ascent , launched in November 2023, followed closely by her sister ship,  Celebrity Beyond , which took her inaugural voyage in early 2022. They represent modern cruising, with their bold, outward-facing design that breaks from traditional ship architecture.

On the other side of the spectrum sits the  oldest Celebrity cruise ship , the venerable  Celebrity Millennium , which made her debut in 2000. Despite her age, Millennium has undergone significant refurbishments to align with the comforts and amenities found on newer vessels.

Age Distribution of Celebrity Fleet:

• Newest Ships  (2023): Celebrity Ascent
• Oldest Ship  (2000): Celebrity Millennium

Celebrity Cruise Ships Listed from Newest to Oldest

The table below shows the ship’s name, class, the age of the vessel , gross registered tonnage, and how many guests it carries at double occupancy.

Celebrity Ascent

The  Celebrity Ascent  represents the latest and largest in the Edge Series, with a gross tonnage of 140,600. It boasts an innovative design with features such as the  Magic Carpet , a multi-purpose, cantilevered platform that scales the ship’s exterior, offering guests unobstructed views. The ship’s culinary experience is enhanced by Michelin-starred chef  Daniel Boulud  as the culinary ambassador.

Key Features: The Theatre, the Rooftop Garden, the Spa, the sprawling Resort Deck, the Sunset Bar designed by Nate Berkus, The Magic Carpet, Inventive culinary experiences, the Grand Plaza and Martini Bar, and Modernized accommodation options.

Celebrity Beyond

Key Features: Rooftop Garden with Rooftop Garden Grill, two-story Sunset Bar, Eden with Eden Restaurant and Eden Bar, Raw on 5, Le Voyage specialty restaurant, The Spa with SEA Thermal Suite, The Spa Café & Juice Bar, Camp at Sea kids’ club, Solarium with a pool and two hot tubs, Craft Social Bar, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Apex

Key Features: Rooftop Garden and Rooftop Garden Grill, The Spa with SEA Thermal Suite, Raw on 5, the Magic Carpet moving platform, Eden with Eden Restaurant and Eden Bar, Solarium with a pool and two hot tubs, Camp at Sea kids’ clubs, Sunset Bar, The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Flora

The  Celebrity Flora  is a marvel of modern expedition design, specifically built for navigating the waters of the Galapagos. Housing a guest capacity similar to the Xpedition, this ship places a strong emphasis on ecological sustainability and comfort. The Flora’s cutting-edge technology and design minimize environmental impact, offering a responsible way to explore the islands.

Key Features: Staterooms (with a traditional or infinite veranda). Other highlights include the Discovery Lounge, where naturalists give lectures; the Observatory library with floor-to-ceiling windows; findings from onboard oceanographic equipment that guests can view; Ocean Grill & Bar; a main dining room; and sundecks with a plunge pool and hot tub.

Celebrity Edge

Celebrity Edge is the first ship in the Edge Series, standing out with a gross tonnage of 129,500. It features the unique  Magic Carpet , and the impressive  Eden , a multi-level, glass-enclosed venue offering a blend of performance art, dining, and breathtaking vistas.

The  Infinite Veranda  staterooms blur the boundary between inside and outside, inviting the sea in.

Key Features: Rooftop Garden and Rooftop Garden Grill, The Spa with SEA Thermal Suite, Raw on 5, the Magic Carpet moving platform, Eden with Eden Restaurant and Eden Bar, Fine Cut Steakhouse, Camp at Sea kids’ clubs, Sunset Bar, The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex.

Celebrity Xploration

The  Celebrity Xploration  caters to those seeking a more private and personalized experience. This intimate catamaran is perfect for small group charters, offering eight luxurious cabins. Guests aboard the Xploration receive tailored service and enjoy detailed itineraries highlighting the best of the Galapagos.

Key Features: Oceanview and balcony staterooms, lounges, a sundeck with hot tubs, use of snorkeling equipment and wetsuits, a dining room and buffet, and guidance from a naturalist along the journey

Celebrity Reflection

Key Features: Sunset Bar, Murano French Restaurant, kids’ clubs, Solarium with pool and two hot tubs, Persian Garden Spa with thermal suite, Tuscan Grille Italian Restaurant, Sushi on Five, Café al Bacio & Gelateria, Cellar Masters Wine Bar, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Silhouette

Key Features: Craft Social Gastropub, The Porch Seafood Restaurant and Raw Bar, The Lawn Club Grill, kids’ clubs, Tuscan Grille Italian Restaurant, Sunset Bar, Solarium with pool and two hot tubs, Café al Bacio & Gelateria, Persian Garden Spa, Murano French Restaurant, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Eclipse

Key Features: The Lawn Club with hot glass class, kids’ clubs, Sushi on Five, Sunset Bar, Solarium with a pool and two hot tubs, Murano French Restaurant, Persian Garden Spa with thermal suite, Quasar Nightclub, Passport Bar, Le Petit Chef projection mapping dining experience, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Equinox

Key Features: Craft Social Gastropub, The Lawn Club with hot glass studio, kids’ clubs, Sunset Bar, Sky Observation Lounge, Spa Café, the Solarium with pool and two hot tubs, Murano French Restaurant, Tuscan Grille, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Solstice

Key Features: Le Petit Chef projection mapping dining experience, Murano French Restaurant, the Spa Café, Sushi on Five, Café al Bacio & Gelateria, Tuscan Grille, the Solarium with a pool and two hot tubs, Quasar nightclub, Sunset Bar, The Lawn Club with hot glass class, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Xpedition

The  Celebrity Xpedition  is a specialty cruise ship capable of accommodating up to  100 guests , offering a sense of exclusivity and camaraderie among passengers. Its smaller size allows for access to various ports throughout the Galapagos. Onboard, travelers find comfortable staterooms and meticulous service, creating a base for daily excursions led by knowledgeable naturalists.

Key Features: Oceanview and balcony staterooms and suites, multiple sundecks including one with a hot tub, a lounge with bar and live music, a dining room and grill, a fitness room, and nightly lectures from certified naturalists

Celebrity Constellation

Here starts the Millennium Class of Celebrity Cruise Ships. These vessels represent an era of luxury cruising with an emphasis on refined amenities and signature experiences.

These vessels have undergone extensive renovations to enhance guest comfort and elevate the onboard experience, integrating features like “The Retreat,” an exclusive area for suite guests.

Key Features: Le Petit Chef projection mapping dining experience, Martini Bar & Crush, Sushi on Five, Tuscan Grille Italian Restaurant, Sunset Bar, Rooftop Terrace, The Persian Garden spa with thermal suite, and kids’ clubs

Celebrity Infinity

Key Features: The Spa Café, Le Petit Chef projection mapping dining experience, Sushi on Five, Tuscan Grille Italian Restaurant, Fortunes Casino, Café al Bacio & Gelateria, Sunset Bar, Persian Garden Spa, a basketball court, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

Celebrity Summit

Key Features: Le Petit Chef projection mapping dining experience, the Spa Café, Cellar Masters Wine Bar, Café al Bacio & Gelateria, Sunset Bar, Blu restaurant for AquaClass guests, Sushi on Five, Sky Lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, The Persian Spa with thermal suite, the Solarium, kids’ clubs, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

RELATED: Celebrity Summit Review After Refurbishment

Celebrity Millennium

As a sister ship to Celebrity Millennium, the Celebrity Summit boasts similar levels of sophistication and class. Post-renovation, the Summit’s guests enjoy updated suites, reimagined restaurants, and enhanced lounges, alongside personalized service.

PHOTO TOUR: Celebrity Millennium in Pictures

Key Features: Le Petit Chef projection mapping dining experience, Sushi on Five, The Persian Garden spa with thermal suite, Café al Bacio & Gelateria, Tuscan Grille Italian restaurant, Sunset Bar, the Spa Café, a Solarium, kids’ clubs, and The Retreat premium ship-within-a-ship complex

RELATED: Celebrity Ships by Size

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Celebrity Cruises Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest

Celebrity Cruises has been setting sail to some of the world’s most incredible destinations since 1988. Think of it as that friend who knows all the chic spots in town and ensures you experience them in style. From the azure waters of the Caribbean to the scenic beauty of Alaska, Celebrity Cruises has been offering its passengers a blend of elegance and laid-back sophistication.

But here’s a little secret: not all ships are created equal. Just like how you’d pick a vintage wine based on its year, the age of a cruise ship can influence your onboard experience. Older ships carry tales of countless voyages, while the newer ones are often decked out with the latest amenities. So, if you’re wondering which Celebrity ship to hop onto next, knowing their age might just be the key. Ahead, we rank Celebrity Cruises ships based on their age, helping you understand what each ship has to offer.

Table of Contents

Celebrity Cruises Ships Ranked by Age

On average, Celebrity Cruises introduces a new ship every two years, ensuring that their fleet remains fresh and up-to-date. These ships typically serve for around 20 to 30 years before they bid adieu.

Celebrity Cruises Ships by Age:

Note: The passenger capacity listed in the table is based on double occupancy. This means that the number reflects the number of guests that can be accommodated in cabins with two people. However, many cabins can host more than two guests, thanks to pull-out sofas or pull-down bunk beds.

Related: Best Celebrity Cruises Ships By Age

Newest Celebrity Cruises Ship

Set to launch in December 2023, Celebrity Ascent is the upcoming gem in Celebrity’s Edge class. With a capacity for 3,260 passengers, it strikes a balance between size and intimacy. Dining on the Ascent offers a range of options, from the plant-based delights at Eden restaurant to gourmet dishes at Le Voyage by renowned New York chef Daniel Boulud. If you’re an art lover, you can appreciate the ship’s 4,500-piece art collection.

One of its unique features is the Magic Carpet, a movable deck that offers varying perspectives of the sea. Once it sets sail, the Ascent will cruise from Fort Lauderdale, covering the Caribbean before venturing to the Mediterranean.

Newest Celebrity Cruises Ship Currently Sailing

Since its launch in April 2022, Celebrity Beyond has been the latest active member of the Edge Series. It can accommodate 3,260 passengers and boasts 32 dining venues, ranging from Greek specialties to Italian favorites. The Rooftop Garden is perfect if you want to unwind with some live music in a tranquil setting. And if you’re looking for a dash of luxury, The Retreat boasts upscale suites with perks like private lounges and dedicated butlers. Currently, Beyond is offering unforgettable experiences in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Oldest Celebrity Cruises Ship

The oldest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet is the Celebrity Millennium . Launched in 2000, this ship has been a long-time favorite for many. While it may not have the flashy amenities of the newer ships, the Celebrity Millennium carries a charm that’s hard to replicate. Its design is a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort, ensuring passengers have a memorable experience. Over the years, the ship has undergone refurbishments to keep up with the times.

It underwent a full refurbishment in February 2019, giving it a fresh look and feel. This renovation not only updated the ship’s design and technology but also introduced brand-new staterooms and a new lounge area.

When it comes to dining, the Celebrity Millennium doesn’t disappoint. With nine restaurants on board, passengers have a plethora of choices. From the Tuscan Grille steakhouse to Sushi on Five, there’s something for every palate (though some restaurants require an additional fee). Standard dining options include Blu and the Main Restaurant. And if you’re in the mood for some entertainment, the ship boasts a rooftop terrace with an outdoor movie screen. The Celebrity Millennium sails to various destinations, including Alaska, Asia, and Canada, offering its passengers a blend of adventure and luxury.

What’s the Biggest Celebrity Cruises Ship?

The biggest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet is the Celebrity Beyond. Launched in 2022, this ship stands out not just because of its size but also due to its state-of-the-art amenities and features. Designed to accommodate a large number of passengers, the Celebrity Beyond offers a spacious and luxurious cruising experience. Whether it’s the dining options, entertainment venues, or relaxation areas, everything on this ship is designed to provide guests with a grand experience. If size and scale matter to you when choosing a cruise, the Celebrity Beyond is hard to beat in the Celebrity Cruises lineup.

What’s the Smallest Celebrity Cruises Ship?

The smallest Celebrity Cruises ship is the Celebrity Xploration . Here are some key details about the ship:

• Launch Date: March 2017
• Occupancy: 16 passengers
• Tonnage: 320
• Length: 98.3 ft
• Cruising Speed: 10 knots

The Celebrity Xploration is designed for intimate journeys, making it ideal for family get-togethers, getaways with friends, or small groups who wish to explore together. This ship offers a unique experience, allowing passengers to visit the same islands Charles Darwin did on their very own private catamaran. It’s tailored for off-the-beaten-path discovery, with opportunities to explore hidden gems like Los Lobos (named for sea lions) and Kicker Rock, which is iconic in the Galápagos.

The ship ensures a luxurious experience with cozy staterooms that either have a window or veranda, providing a personal view of the stunning archipelago. Additionally, rooms come with a personal refrigerator stocked with beverages of choice, room service, complimentary snorkeling equipment, and wet suits.

Difference Between Old and New Celebrity Cruises Ships

When it comes to Celebrity Cruises, both the old and new ships have their own charm and offerings. But there are some distinct differences that set them apart:

1. Size & Capacity

Older ships in the Celebrity fleet, like the Celebrity Millennium, are generally smaller in size. This means they have a more intimate feel, accommodating fewer passengers. On the other hand, newer ships, such as the Celebrity Beyond, are larger and can host a greater number of guests. This increase in size also means more deck space, larger staterooms, and expanded public areas.

2. Amenities & Entertainment

Newer ships tend to be decked out with the latest amenities. Think state-of-the-art fitness centers, expansive spas, and innovative entertainment options. The Celebrity Beyond, for instance, features the Magic Carpet, a movable deck that offers a range of experiences. Older ships might not have these flashy features, but they offer classic entertainment and amenities that have been loved by passengers for years.

The decor on older ships leans towards a more traditional and classic style, with rich woods and warm tones. Newer ships embrace a more modern aesthetic, with neutral palettes, contemporary art pieces, and sleek designs. The Celebrity Edge class, which includes the Beyond, showcases this modern design with transformative spaces and avant-garde concepts.

4. Dining Options

While all Celebrity ships offer a range of dining options, newer ships often have a wider variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. They might feature specialty dining venues or collaborations with world-renowned chefs. Older ships, while having fewer dining venues, often focus on timeless and classic dishes that have been perfected over the years.

5. Environmental Considerations

Newer ships in the Celebrity fleet are often designed with sustainability in mind. They might utilize advanced propulsion systems, efficient hull designs, and waste reduction technologies. While older ships might not have been built with these features, many have been retrofitted over the years to improve their environmental footprint.

In conclusion, whether you’re drawn to the charm and coziness of the older ships or the modern luxuries of the newer vessels, Celebrity Cruises offers a range of experiences to suit every traveler’s preference.

Choosing a Celebrity Cruises ship can often come down to its age. While older ships like the Millennium have their own charm and history, newer vessels like the Beyond come equipped with the latest amenities and innovations. The age of a ship can influence onboard experiences, from dining options to entertainment. So, whether you’re a fan of classic cruising or eager to experience the newest features, understanding the age of the ships can help you make an informed decision for your next voyage.

Sheryll holds an MA in Journalism and English from NYU. With over 7 years of experience in the cruise industry, she brings a blend of insightful reporting and firsthand cruising knowledge.

Princess Cruises Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest

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Guide To Celebrity Cruise Ships By Age, Size And Passenger Numbers (2024)

This post looks at Celebrity Cruise Ships By Age, Newest To Oldest size weight, passenger and crew numbers of 2024. Ok yes, these are geeky facts not everyone is interested in. However as Celbrity customers we find facts like this so interesting, it’s great to know a little more about your favourite cruise line. Also, it’s great to know Celebrity Cruise ship facts and details when you are booking a cruise.

Choosing a cruise ship is all about personal choice, and one size does not fit all. Factors like how big is a ship, when it was built and also refurbished? These are all limiting factors when deciding on the next cruise ship you want to sail on. Some people prefer small and friendly, some want big and shiny. Also check here to see what the  biggest passenger ships in world are ?

AD We have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy and privacy policy for more details.

If you have cruised with Celebrity then you know there really is no looking back, despite not being the biggest or newest ship I had ever cruised on. Additionally it was pre renovations, but saying all that,  Celebrity Silhouette  is still my favourite ship to have ever sailed on. We’re not sure why; it was off-peak, so the ship was quieter; the quality, speciality dining and incredible staff, gorgeous cabin , everything added up, and it felt like an extraordinary ship.

In this post, we will look at the facts and figures; this will help you decide which Celebrity Cruise Ship is best for you. Or, indeed, answer a few geeky questions for you.

Celebrity Ships By Age Newest To Oldest 2024

What was celebrities first ever cruise ship.

Celebrity was founded in 1988 by the Chandris Group, with its first ship, the S.S. Meridian, launching in 1990. History tells us that Celebrity, of course, went on to be associated with quality, a luxury. In 1997 was acquired by the Royal Caribbean Group, which decided to keep the two brands separate.

How Many Ships Do Celebrity Have?

Celebrity Cruise Line, as of 2024, has 17 cruise ships , 15 in active service, with Celebrity Beyond recently launching in April 2022 and Celebrity Ascent in 2023. Also, 3 of the fleet are much smaller vessels for exploration cruises.

What Is The Newest Celebrity Ship?

The newest ship is Celebrity Ascent, a 3260-passenger Edge class ship. Before this, sister ships Celebrity Beyond and Flora, a 100-passenger Galapagos class ship, launched in 2019, reaching different audiences. However, Celebrity Xcel has just been announced and will launch in 2025.

Amenities You Can Expect To Find On Celebrity Ships?

Celebrity ships have a chilled-out vibe; families are welcome and catered for, but there are other focuses. This makes Celebrity the cruise line for families who want to spend time together.

• Lawn Club a great lawned deck and bar area with the best views
• Fantastic pool areas 
• A Choice of inspiring specialty dining venues 
• Entertainment 

Celebrity Ships By Age Newest To Oldest At A Glance

• Xcel, Due 2025
• Ascent, 2023
• Beyond, 2022
• Flora, 2019
• Xploration, 2017
• Reflection, 2012
• Silhouette, 2011
• Eclipse, 2010
• Equinox, 2009
• Solstice, 2008
• Xpedition, 2004
• Constellation, 2002
• Infinity, 2001
• Summit, 2001
• Millenium, 2000

Celebrity Ships By Age, Class And Passengers

What are the different classes of celebrity cruise ships.

• Edge Class Ships, launched 2018 – 2024
• Galapagos Class Ships, launched 2019
• Xpedition Class Ships, launched 2004 – 2017
• Solstice Class Ships, launched 2008- 2012
• Celebrity Millenium Class Ships, launched 2000 – 2002

Edge Class Ships

• Xcel (2025)

Galapagos Class

Celebrity flora, xpedition class, solstice class, celebrity millenium.

• Constellation

What Is The Difference Between The New And Old C elebrity Ships?

Part of the Celebrity Revolution saw a complete redesign and rethink to fit with modern interiors and design, and the results are stunning. We are leaving behind the copper and rust tones in favour of fabulous bronzes and whites with a natural element that gives the ships a gorgeous, opulent feel.

Ideas such as the Rooftop Garden are a glorious redesign of the original garden areas of older ships. Although not all ships have had the planned Celebrity Revolution, it is on the cards for many.

Newer ships have enhanced facilities such as the Magic Carpet, the Retreat Suite Area and the Eden Bar. The feel is relaxed, luxurious, yes, super modern without being cold.

Which Celebrity Ships Have Been Refurbished?

Celebrity Silhouette was the last refurbished in 2020, following Summit, Equinox and Millenium in 2019. However, there are more plans in the pipeline.

Which Is The Biggest C elebrity Cruise Ship?

Celebrity Beyond and Ascent took over as the biggest ships, with 140,600 gross tons and 3260 passengers and around 1400 crew, when they launch in 2022 and 2023. Thus taking the mantle off Apex and Edge, slightly smaller at 129,500 and holding 2910 and 2918 passengers retrospectively.

However, compared to the newer ships in the sister fleet Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, which holds 6,988 passengers and 236,857 gross tons, the ships are more intimate by today’s standards.

Who Are The Godparents Of All Of The C elebrity Cruise Ships?

• Ascent, TBA
• Beyond, Olympic Gold Medalist Simone Biles
• Apex, Reshma Saujani, the founder and CEO of international nonprofit Girls Who Code
• Flora, Yolanda Kakabadse, former minister of environment for Ecuador and former president of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and World Wildlife Fund International.
• Edge, Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai
• Xploration, None
• Reflection, Jovanka Goronjic, Megan Mathie., Helen O’Connell, Rosey Rodriguez, all Celebrity employes whose life had been impacted by breast cancer to raise awareness for the cause.
• Silhouette, Michelle Morgan, the president and CEO of Signature Travel Network
• Eclipse, Emma Pontin, yachtswoman from the UK
• Equinox, Nina Barough, founder of a UK cancer charity
• Solstice, Sharon Smith, a biological oceanographer
• Xpedition, None
• Constellation, Jean Marie Arneberg, a wife of Tor Arneberg who was a member of the Royal Caribbean board of directors.
• Infinity, Solveig Wilhelmsen
• Summit, Paulina Rider Wilhemsen founder of Wilstar, a social impact venture which is focused on supporting projects in the areas of education, human dignity, women’s rights, and maritime conservation.
• Millenium, Robyn Roux, wife and adviser to Michel Roux

Celebrity Cruise Ship Facts

Simply click on the ships below to see all the the Celebrity Cruise Ship facts and figures.

Celebrity Ascent

• Launched, 2023
• Class, Edge
• Length, 1073ft
• Gross Tons, 140,600
• Has a capacity of  3260
• And a crew of 1400
• Cruise Speed 22kts
• Free dining options 8
• Specialty dining options 8
• Exclusive Dining  2

Celebrity Beyond

• Has a capacity of 3260
• Exclusive dining 2 

 Celebrity Apex

• Launched, 2019
• Length, 1004ft
• Gross Tons, 129,500
• Has a capacity of 2910
• And a crew of 1320
• CruiseSpeed 21.8kts
• Specialty dining options 7
• Exclusive ding 2

 Celebrity Edge

• Launched, 2018
• Class , Edge
• Gross Tons 129,500
• Has a capacity of 2918
• And a crew of 1377
• Cruise Speed 21.8kts
• Exclusive dining 2
• Class, Galapagos
• Length, 333ft
• Gross Tons 5,739
• Has a capacity of 100
• And a crew of 80
• Cruise Speed 10-12kts
• Free dining options 2

Celebrity Xploration

• Launched 2017
• Class, Xpedition
• Length, 37.7ft
• Gross Tons 319,50
• Has a capacity of 16
• And a crew of 12
• Cruise Speed 10kts
• Free dining options 1

Celebrity Xpedition

• Launched 2004
• Class Xpedition
• Length, 296ft
• Gross Tons 2,842
• Has a capacity of 48
• And a crew of 38  check this
• Cruise Speed 15kts

Celebrity Reflection

• Launched, 2012
• Class, Solstice
• Length, 1047ft
• Gross Tons 126,000
• Has a capacity of 3046
• And a crew of 1271
• Cruise Speed 24kts
• Free dining options 4
• Specialty dining options 6

Celebrity Silhouette

• Launched 2011
• Refurbished 2020
• Gross Tons, 122,400
• Has a capacity of 2902
• And a crew of 1500
• Decks 24kts
• Cruise Speed 16

Celebrity Eclipse

Launched, 2010 Class, Solstice Length, 1041ft Gross Tons, 122,000 Has a capacity of 2852 And a crew of 1271 Decks 16 Cruise Speed 24kts Free dining options 4 Specialty dining options 4 Exclusive restaurants 2

Celebrity Equinox

• Launched 2009
• Length, 1041ft
• Gross Tons, 122,000
• Has a capacity of 2852
• And a crew of 1250
• Specialty dining options 4
• Exclusive restaurants 2

Celebrity Solstice

• Launched, 2008
• Gross Tons 122,000

Celebrity Constellation

• Launched 2002
• Class, Millennium
• Length, 965 ft
• Gross Tons 90,940
• Has a capacity of 2184
• And a crew of 999
• Specialty dining options 3

Celebrity Infinity

• Launched 2001
• Length, 965ft
• Gross Tons, 91,000
• Has a capacity of 2170
• Free Dining Options 4

Celebrity Summit

• Renovated 2019
• Class Millennium 
• Gross Tons, 90,940
• Has a capacity of 2218
• And a crew of 997

Celebrity Millennium

• Launched 2000
• Class Millennium
• Length, 956ft

And that’s it, a guide to Celebrity Cruise ships with lots of valuable facts and some not-so-useful but exciting.

More Celebrity Cruises Posts

• Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Packages
• Celebrity Non Alcoholic Drinks Packages
• Photo Tour Of The Celebrity Edge
• Bravo Cruise 2018

Sarah also writes for Mini Travellers Family Travel Blog and Extraordinary Chaos Craft and Lifestyle Blog. Both are award-winning blogs with a travel and family focus. She is married and has two boys, aged 18 and 22, who all love cruising as a family. Nothing is better than waking up every day in a new port with new and exciting things to explore. She aims to share how cruising as a family with young adults is the perfect choice for family travel. Her boys are sporty and love the activities, sports and dining options cruising offers. Sarah has worked with brands such as Walt Disney World, Mark Warner, Ikos Resort, Center Parcs, Laura Ashley, Belling and Next.

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Celebrity Cruises Ships by Age, Newest to Oldest 2024

Are you looking to book a Celebrity Cruises  cruise but want to know the age of the ship, its itinerary, and how many people it can hold? You’ve come to the right place.

I’m a huge cruise fan but that doesn’t mean I will book just any itinerary. Knowing what the ship has to offer, especially how new or old it is always plays a major role in how I book a cruise. This is why I created this post to break down Celebrity Cruises ships by age, class, and how many guests they can accommodate.

This post should help those looking to book the newest ships with the latest and greatest technology Celebrity Cruises has to offer. If there is something you would like to see included don’t hesitate to reach out via Twitter or shoot me an email .

How Many Ships Does Celebrity Cruises Have?

As of 2023, Celebrity Cruises has 15 ships in service, with one new ship planned soon: Celebrity Ascent in late 2023.

Celebrity Cruises Ships Newest to Oldest

Below you will find Celebrity Cruises’ ship line-up in order of newest to oldest ship. I’ve also included their latest ships being built and their estimated arrival date.

Celebrity Cruises Ships By Age New To Old

• Celebrity Ascent, Due Late 2023
• Celebrity Beyond, April 2022
• Celebrity Apex, June 2021
• Celebrity Flora, June 2019
• Celebrity Edge, November 2018
• Celebrity Xploration, March 2017
• Celebrity Reflection, October 2012
• Celebrity Silhouette, July 2011
• Celebrity Eclipse, April 2010
• Celebrity Equinox, August 2009
• Celebrity Solstice, November 2008
• Celebrity Xpedition, June 2004
• Celebrity Constellation, May 2002
• Celebrity Summit, October 2001
• Celebrity Infinity, March 2001
• Celebrity Millennium, July 2000

Celebrity Cruises Ships By Age, Class, And Passengers

Please note that the passenger and crew numbers are based on double occupancy, and the actual numbers may vary. The Celebrity Ascent, which is due to launch in late 2023, does not have passenger and crew numbers available yet.

Who Are The Godparents Of All Of The Celebrity Cruises Ships?

Becoming a cruise ship’s godparent is a big honor and one that can take some time to figure out. Below is a list of all current godparents of Celebrity Cruises ships.

Other Cruise Line Ships by Age:

• Carnival Cruise Ships By Age, Newest to Oldest
• Holland America Line Ships By Age, Newest to Oldest
• Norwegian Cruises Ships By Age, Newest to Oldest
• Princess Cruises Ships By Age, Newest to Oldest
• Royal Caribbean Ships By Age, Newest to Oldest
• Viking Ocean Cruises ships By Age, Newest to Oldest

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Celebrity Cruises , Cruise Lines

Celebrity cruise ships by size and age (2024).

A quick guide to Celebrity cruise ships by size and age to help you decide which ship is for you if you are considering a cruise with Celebrity Cruises.

One of the most important decisions you’ll have to make when booking a cruise is what ship to sail on. Many cruise lines have a wide range of ships, from huge mega-ships to mid-sized ships and in the case of Celebrity, all the way down to small expedition ships. The choice can be overwhelming, even if you already know the cruise line you wish to sail on.

I took a UK staycation cruise on Celebrity Silhouette and enjoyed it so much I’ve had my eyes peeled for another great solo deal with them ever since. In the meantime, I’ve researched their different ships to see what they have to offer so I’m prepared if a good fare pops up.

Read on for information on the size and age of the ships in the Celebrity Cruises’ fleet so that when you come to choose a cruise with Celebrity, you’ll know what ship is right for you.

A little bit about Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises are a luxury cruise line that is owned and operated by the Royal Caribbean Group. They are based in Miami, USA and sail to over 300 destinations in 70 countries.

Overview of Celebrity Ships

There are 16 ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. 15 are currently sailing with one more to be launched towards the end of 2023.

There are four classes of ships in the fleet – Edge, Solstice, Millennium and Galapagos. Each offers a slightly different experience. The Galapagos series are expedition-type ships that cruise the Galapagos islands, hence the name!

* – GRT is a measurement standard used to calculate the internal capacity of the ship.

Celebrity ships by size – largest to smallest

The majority of the Celebrity Cruise fleet is made up of large ships. Although compared to some other cruise lines they are at the smaller end of large ships. The exception to this is the expedition ships which are designed to explore the Galapagos Islands.

• Celebrity Ascent – 3, 836 (due 2023)
• Celebrity Beyond – 3,836
• Celebrity Reflection – 3,480
• Celebrity Apex – 3, 385
• Celebrity Edge – 3,385
• Celebrity Silhouette – 3,324
• Celebrity Eclipse – 3,148
• Celebrity Equinox – 3,148
• Celebrity Solstice – 3,148
• Celebrity Constellation – 2,599
• Celebrity Summit – 2,599
• Celebrity Infinity – 2,593
• Celebrity Millennium – 2,593
• Celebrity Flora – 100
• Celebrity Xploration – 48
• Celebrity Xploration – 16

What is Celebrity’s biggest ship?

Celebrity Beyond is the largest Celebrity Cruises ship. It measures 1,073ft (326m) in length and has a gross registered tonnage (GRT) of 140, 600. With 1,646 cabins onboard there is capacity for 3,836 passengers.

What is Celebrity’s smallest ship?

Carrying just 16 passengers, Celebrity Xploration is the smallest ship in Celebrity’s fleet. It is permanently based in the Galapagos Islands where it takes guests on expedition-style cruises.

Out of the larger, more mainstream, cruise ships in the fleet the smallest vessels are Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Infinity.

Celebrity ships by age – newest to oldest

Celebrity’s ships range in age from over 20 years old to brand sparkly new.

• Celebrity Ascent – due 2023
• Celebrity Beyond – 2022
• Celebrity Apex – 2020
• Celebrity Flora – 2019
• Celebrity Edge – 2018
• Celebrity Xploration – 2017
• Celebrity Reflection – 2012
• Celebrity Silhouette – 2011
• Celebrity Eclipse – 2010
• Celebrity Equinox – 2009
• Celebrity Solstice – 2008
• Celebrity Xpedition – 2004
• Celebrity Constellation – 2002
• Celebrity Infinity – 2001
• Celebrity Summit – 2001
• Celebrity Millennium – 2000

All ships are kept in good condition and regularly undergo updates and refurbishments. However, if you like to cruise on more modern features and amenities then go for some of the newer ships.

What is Celebrity’s newest ship?

Celebrity’s newest ship is Celebrity Beyond. The ship set sail in April 2022 and its maiden voyage took in ports of call in France, Portugal and Spain. Her naming ceremony was held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA on 4 November 2022.

Itineraries on Celebrity Beyond include French and Italian Rivieras, the Greek Islands, Mexico, Dominican Republic and the Bahamas.

What is the oldest Celebrity ship?

The oldest ship in the Celebrity fleet is Celebrity Millennium. Setting sail in 2000, Celebrity Millennium was last refurbished in 2019. Itineraries Celebrity Millennium sails include Alaska, the California coast, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Central America, Japan, the Philippines and Vietnam.

What are the different classes on Celebrity?

There are three classes of ships in the Celebrity fleet (excluding the Galapagos series).

Ships in the Edge series: Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Edge

The newest Celebrity ships are part of the Edge series. With a modern design and look and feel they offer some innovative features including a new cabin style with a floor-to-ceiling glass window.

They also have a platform, nicknamed the ‘magic carpet’ that moves and up down the side of the ship. It is used for various activities including for tender boat disembarkation and even as a restaurant.

Ships in the Millennium series: Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Summit.

The Millennium series is made up of four ships built between 1999 and 2002. These are the oldest ships in the Celebrity fleet and also have the smallest capacity out of the three main classes of ship.

Celebrity Millennium was the first ship in the fleet to undergo modernisation as part of an ambitious programme to update the older ships with some of the design features from Celebrity Edge.

Ships in the Solstice series: Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Solstice.

There are five ships in the Solstice series. Celebrity Solstice was the first to enter service and Celebrity Reflection was the last.

One feature that makes these ships stand out from the rest of the fleet is that they have a one-half-acre area of lawn with real grass on the top deck. The Lawn Club is used for different activities including picnics, outdoor games and live music. Or you can just sit back, soak up the sun and enjoy the sea views.

I’ve cruise on Celebrity Silhouette and thought she was a beautiful ship. Having been used to cruise ships for the UK market it was quite noticeable that Celebrity Silhouette was designed for international cruisers. The decor and vibe just felt different.

My cabin was great, surprisingly spacious and like all cruise ships, has a super comfortable bed. The bars and restaurants onboard were very good, particularly the Sunset Bar which was a great place for the sail away. The Martini Bar was also fun.

Related post: Guide to Celebrity Silhouette dining options

Ships in the Galapagos series: Celebrity Flora, Celebrity Xpedition, Celebrity Xploration.

The Galapagos series is made up of three ships designed to explore the Galapagos Islands in luxury. With such small ships, they offer quite a different experience to the main ships in the Celebrity fleet. Instead of being packed with attractions on board, the destination is the star of the show.

The Last Word

Celebrity Cruises have a great range of ships sailing some incredible itineraries.

Whether you like the sound of the new innovative features on the most recent ships or prefer a more classic cruising experience on the older style ships, there will be a ship for you. However, you do need to do a bit of research to make sure you pick the right one for your cruise holiday.

You may also like…

• Celebrity Silhouette Balcony cabin review
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Celebrity Cruises  owns and operates a modern fleet of sixteen cruise ships. From the largest ship in the fleet to the smallest, we have listed and detailed every ship and information about each vessel.

Celebrity cruise ships can be categorized into three classes: Millennium class, Solstice class, and Edge class.  The oldest ship in the fleet was built in 2000, with the latest vessel completed in 2023.

Celebrity Cruise Ships: Biggest to Smallest

Below is a list of all Celebrity Cruise Line ships by size, ordered from largest to smallest.

Celebrity Cruise Ships By Size

Our list of Celebrity Cruises’ ships by size shows gross registered tonnage or GRT (which is a measure of internal volume, not weight), the total guest capacity of each ship, Length in Feet, ship class , and the year the vessel entered service:

List of Celebrity Cruise Ships By Size

List of celebrity cruises ships by age with photos.

A wholly owned subsidiary of  Royal Caribbean  Group, Celebrity Cruises has been around since 1988 and merged with Royal Caribbean in 1997.

Here is a list of every Celebrity Cruises ship currently operating in the fleet with photos and details:

Celebrity Ascent (2023)

Celebrity Ascent is Celebrity Cruise Line’s newest ship in the fleet, the fourth ship in the popular  Edge Class , and sister to  Celebrity Edge ,  Celebrity Beyond , and  Celebrity Apex . She is 140,600 GRTs and carries 3,836 passengers (based on two per  cabin ).

Celebrity Beyond (2022)

Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in  Edge Class  and sister to  Celebrity Ascent ,  Celebrity Edge , and  Celebrity Apex . She is slightly larger at 140,600 GRTs than previous  ships in this class  and has a larger capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Apex (2020)

Celebrity Apex is the second ship in  Edge Class  and sister to  Celebrity Ascent ,  Celebrity Edge , and  Celebrity Beyond . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Edge (2018)

Celebrity Edge is the first ship in the very popular  Edge Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Ascent ,  Celebrity Apex , and  Celebrity Beyond . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Reflection (2012)

Celebrity Reflection is the final ship in  Solstice Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Silhouette ,  Celebrity Eclipse ,  Celebrity Equinox,  and  Celebrity Solstice . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Silhouette (2011)

Celebrity Silhouette is the fourth ship in  Solstice Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Reflection ,  Celebrity Eclipse ,  Celebrity Equinox,  and  Celebrity Solstice . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Eclipse (2010)

Celebrity Eclipse is the third ship in  Solstice Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Reflection ,  Celebrity Silhouette ,  Celebrity Equinox,  and  Celebrity Solstice . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Equinox (2009)

Celebrity Equinox is the second ship in the  Solstice Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Reflection ,  Celebrity Silhouette ,  Celebrity Eclipse,  and  Celebrity Solstice . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Solstice (2008)

Celebrity Solstice is the first ship in the  Solstice Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Reflection ,  Celebrity Silhouette ,  Celebrity Eclipse,  and  Celebrity Equinox . She is 129,500 GRTs and has a capacity of 3,836 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Constellation (2002)

Celebrity Constellation is the final ship in the  Millennium Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Summit ,  Celebrity Infinity , and  Celebrity Millennium . She is 91,000 GRTs and has a capacity of 2,559 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Summit (2001)

Celebrity Summit is the second ship in the  Millennium Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Infinity ,  Celebrity Millennium , and  Celebrity Constellation . She is 91,000 GRTs and has a capacity of 2,599 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Infinity (2001)

Celebrity Infinity is the second ship in the  Millennium Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Summit ,  Celebrity Millennium , and  Celebrity Constellation . She is 91,000 GRTs and has a capacity of 2,593 passengers (based on two per cabin).

Celebrity Millennium (2000)

Celebrity Millennium is the first ship in the  Millennium Class  and sister to the  Celebrity Summit ,  Celebrity Infinity , and  Celebrity Constellation . She is 91,000 GRTs and has a capacity of 2,593 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the first newly built vessel for Celebrity following the merger between it and  Royal Caribbean .

Celebrity Cruises Different Ship Classes

Celebrity Cruises has several different classes of ships. Here is a list:

Celebrity Edge Class Ships are:

• Celebrity Ascent
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Edge

Celebrity Solstice Class ships are:

• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Solstice

Celebrity Millennium Class ships are:

• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium

Celebrity Galapagos ships are:

• Celebrity Flora
• Celebrity Xploration
• Celebrity Xpedition

List of Celebrity Galapagos Ships By Size

List of celebrity galapagos ships by age with photos.

Here is a list of every Celebrity Galapagos ship currently operating in the fleet:

Celebrity Flora (2019)

Celebrity Flora  was launched in 2019 and is the jewel of the  Galapagos Class . She is 5,739 GRTs and has a capacity of 100 passengers. Celebrity has stated that the design and accommodations of  Celebrity Flora  are heavily inspired by the design of Celebrity Edge overall while also having a significant emphasis on outdoor space. Per Galápagos’ regulations, the ship is flagged in Ecuador and staffed by Ecuadorian  crew members .

Celebrity Xploration (2017)

Celebrity Xploration  was launched in 2017 and is in the  Galapagos Class . She is only 320 GRTs and has a capacity of 16 passengers. You can book this whole ship for an intimate journey perfect for family get-togethers, getaways with friends, or small groups who want to  embark  on an adventure together.

Celebrity Xpedition (2004)

Celebrity Xpedition  is the oldest ship in the  Galapagos Class . She is 2,842 GRTs and has a capacity of 48 passengers. The ship is an alternative to  Celebrity Cruises ‘ larger ships, offering more personal attention afforded by its smaller size. The ship sails to the  Galápagos Islands .

Celebrity Cruises Ships FAQs

What is the occupancy capacity of the suites on celebrity cruise ships.

The occupancy capacity of the suites on Celebrity Cruise Ships varies depending on the ship and suite category, with some accommodating up to 4 guests.

What is the magic carpet on Celebrity Cruise Ships?

The magic carpet on Celebrity Cruise Ships refers to a cantilevered, floating platform that can be positioned at different levels on the ship, offering unique dining and entertainment experiences.

What are the biggest Celebrity Cruises ships in the fleet?

The biggest Celebrity Cruises ships in the fleet include the innovative and spacious Edge-class ships, offering elevated onboard experiences and luxurious accommodations.

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Celebrity Cruise Ships Ranked by Age, Size and Class

• May 28, 2024
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Celebrity Cruises has 16 cruise ships. These range from large cruise ships that can accommodate over 3,000 guests, to small expedition yachts with a guest capacity of just 16.

In this article, we’ll look at the different Celebrity Cruises ships, to help you narrow down your options for your next cruise. You’ll find lists of the Celebrity ships by age and size, as well as explanations of the different classes of vessels in the fleet.

Whether you’re a regular cruiser or are considering your first cruise with Celebrity, I hope that you find this guide to Celebrity Cruises ships ranked by age and size to be useful!

All the Celebrity ships by age – newest to oldest

The following table shows all of Celebrity Cruises ships ordered by year of launch, including which is the newest Celebrity ship…

Celebrity Ascent is the newest ship

The newest Celebrity Cruises ship is Celebrity Ascent. This ship made her maiden voyage in December 2023 in the Eastern Caribbean.

Before Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond (2022), Celebrity Apex (2021) and Celebrity Edge (2018) were the newest mainstream cruise ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. Two small Galapagos expedition ships, Celebrity Flora (2019) and Celebrity Xploration (2017) are also relatively new.

There’s then a five-year gap in the construction of new ships, with Celebrity Reflection being built in 2012.

Read more: The Newest Celebrity Cruise Ships (In Order)

Ships that have sailed on

There are several ships that Celebrity Cruises used to operate that have been sold on. Meridian was the oldest, which also sailed as Sun Cruises once sold. She sank in 1999.

Horizon was sold in 2005, and Zenith in 2007. Both ships have since been scrapped.

But there are three older ships that are still sailing on. Celebrity Galaxy, Celebrity Mercury and Celebrity Century have all have several names since leaving the Celebrity fleet, and now operate for Marella Cruises as Marella Explorer, Marella Voyager, and Marella Explorer 2 respectively.

From big to small – Celebrity ships in order of size

When it comes to comparing the size of cruise ships, the best way is to consider the Gross Tonnage. This is a measurement of the internal volume of a ship. Length, guest capacity and the number of decks that are accessible to passengers may also be considered.

The following table shows the Celebrity Cruises ships ordered from largest to smallest…

The occupancy refers to how many passengers each ship can accommodate based on having two guests in each room. As some staterooms have extra beds for third and fourth passengers, the maximum occupancy will be higher.

Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond are the biggest in the fleet

The largest Celebrity Cruises ship is Celebrity Ascent, along with her twin sister Celebrity Beyond. These cruise ships have a volume of 140,600 GT and a length of 327 m, making the ships 12% larger than the next biggest ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet.

The biggest Celebrity Cruises ships at sea previously were sister ships Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex which have a volume of 129,500 GT and 16 passenger decks. However, Celebrity Reflection is 13 meters longer at 319m in length and can accommodate around 100 more guests despite having three fewer decks.

Why are some ships so small?

Celebrity Xploration, Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Flora are small ships, accommodating 16, 48 and 100 guests, respectively. In fact, Celebrity Xploration is the smallest cruise ship in the world !

These ships cruise to the remote Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador and so they need to be small to access the ports, sometimes via Zodiac boat.

The four Celebrity classes explained

Celebrity Cruises has four classes of ships, which are referred to as ‘series’. Each class of ships has something different to offer, whilst the ships within each class will be relatively similar.

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Celebrity Edge Class Ships

Celebrity Edge class ships are the newest in the Celebrity Cruises fleet. Designed to bring you closer to the ocean, they feature the Magic Carpet, an outdoor levitating bar, and Eden, a beautiful indoor area with 7,000 square feet of windows.

The ships in Celebrity Edge Class are:

• Celebrity Ascent
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Solstice Class Ships

Celebrity Solstice-class ships are large cruise ships that were built between 2008 and 2012. They each feature a half-acre real grass lawn and ice-topped Martini bars.

The ships in Celebrity Solstice Class are:

• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Reflection

Celebrity Millennium Class Ships

Celebrity Millennium-class ships were built between 2000 and 2002 and accommodate around 2,000 passengers. Ideal for destination-focussed cruise itineraries, they’re able to access the smaller ports that larger cruise ships can’t reach.

The ships in Celebrity Millennium Class are:

• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Constellation

Celebrity Galapagos Class Ships

Celebrity Cruises Galapagos ships are designed specifically for cruises around the Galapagos Islands. They feature groundbreaking technology and offer a yacht-like experience for 16 to 100 guests.

The Celebrity Galapagos ships are:

• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration
• Celebrity Flora

Read more: Celebrity Cruise Ships By Class

Don’t confuse ship classes with stateroom classes

Celebrity Cruises also has two classes of accommodation that offer special services and amenities: the Aqua Class and the Concierge Class.

Aqua Class staterooms – In premium locations close to the spa, these come with unlimited access to spa areas and a range of perks, including welcome drinks, daily canapes, a pillow menu, bathrobes, yoga mats and priority check-in.

Concierge Class staterooms – Located on upper decks in midship locations, these come with perks such as an exclusive lunch on embarkation day, daily canapes, a pillow menu, priority check-in and access to a personalised concierge service.

The best Celebrity ships for families

All of the Celebrity Cruises ships are good for kids, so it wouldn’t be possible to say that one particular ship is the best. While you won’t find waterslides and ziplines, Celebrity Cruises kids’ clubs are great, with soft play and lots of organised activities.

They also have special resources available to help autistic guests, including children. Families can get priority boarding, and there are sensory toys to hire. Some film screenings are also low-volume and low-lighting, and autistic children can attend a kids club outside of their age range if it means they are more comfortable with a sibling.

When choosing a Celebrity cruise with children, the itinerary is probably more important than the ship. Older kids will love the Galapagos expeditions, warm weather cruises are loved by all, while parents with pre-school kids may like to look out for no-fly cruises from their nearest port.

Suggested read: The Best Cruise Ships for Kids

To conclude

There’s a Celebrity Cruises ship for everyone. The newest ships , especially Celebrity Beyond, are modern and luxurious with stunning new design concepts and the latest technology.

The older ships have all been modernised as part of a $500-million makeover. So it’s fair to say that there are no bad ships when it comes to Celebrity Cruises.

But if you’d like to see which ships cruisers rate the highest, then check out this list of the best and worst Celebrity ships according to reviews for more info.

Related Posts:

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

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Celebrity Cruises ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Are you looking for the most venue-packed Celebrity Cruises ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Celebrity Cruises ships.

The biggest Celebrity cruise ships are, as you might expect, the Celebrity ships with the most onboard restaurants, bars, showrooms and decktop pool zones. They also have the biggest casinos and spas among ships in the Celebrity cruise fleet and the most cabins and suites — as well as the most variation in cabin and suite types.

With room for 3,000 passengers or more, the biggest Celebrity ships are like floating versions of the big resorts you find on land in places like Orlando or Las Vegas, although they're not quite as large as the very biggest resorts on land or sea (for the latter, you'd probably want to try a Royal Caribbean or MSC Cruises vessel). If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, the biggest Celebrity Cruises ships are the Celebrity ships for you.

For more cruise guides, reviews and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, Celebrity doesn't just operate large vessels. The Miami-based cruise brand also markets several relatively small cruise ships that carry just 2,000 or so people and have a much more intimate feel. In some cases, these vessels are 35% smaller than the biggest Celebrity cruise ships. They are ships that, notably, have fewer decktop activities and interior venues than the biggest Celebrity cruise ships.

These smaller Celebrity cruise ships are best for vacationers who like a more intimate, less crowded resort experience.

Related: The 4 types of Celebrity Cruises ships, explained

Celebrity also operates three even smaller vessels — much smaller; they carry just 16 to 100 people — in the Galapagos year-round. These three vessels make up what is essentially an entirely different business for Celebrity than the mainstream, big-ship cruising that is at the core of the company.

Celebrity is essentially two cruise lines in one: a big-ship brand with 12 vessels that carry 2,000 to 3,000 passengers and sail around the world, and a Galapagos cruisetour operator with three very tiny vessels. We include all of the vessels in this guide.

To make sure you end up on the right Celebrity ship for you, it pays to study which Celebrity cruise ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here, every Celebrity ship currently in operation is ranked from biggest to smallest.

1. Celebrity Beyond

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 141,420 tons Passenger capacity: 3,260

2 (tied). Celebrity Apex

Maiden voyage: 2020 Size: 130,818 tons Passenger capacity: 2,910

2 (tied). Celebrity Edge

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 130,818 tons Passenger capacity: 2,908

4. Celebrity Reflection

Maiden voyage: 2012 Size: 125,366 tons Passenger capacity: 3,046

5. Celebrity Silhouette

Maiden voyage: 2011 Size: 122,210 tons Passenger capacity: 2,886

6 (tied). Celebrity Eclipse

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 121,878 tons Passenger capacity: 2,850

6 (tied). Celebrity Equinox

Maiden voyage: 2009 Size: 121,878 tons Passenger capacity: 2,850

6 (tied). Celebrity Solstice

Maiden voyage: 2008 Size: 121,878 tons Passenger capacity: 2,850

9 (tied). Celebrity Constellation

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,170

9 (tied). Celebrity Summit

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,158

9 (tied). Celebrity Infinity

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,170

9 (tied). Celebrity Millennium

Maiden voyage: 2000 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,137

13. Celebrity Flora

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 5,739 tons Passenger capacity: 100

14. Celebrity Xpedition

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 2,842 tons Passenger capacity: 48

15. Celebrity Xploration

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 320 tons Passenger capacity: 16

What is the biggest Celebrity Cruises ship?

The biggest Celebrity cruise ship is Celebrity Beyond, which measures 141,420 gross tons. It's also the newest Celebrity cruise ship. It debuted less than two years ago, in April 2022.

What is the smallest Celebrity Cruises ship?

The smallest Celebrity cruise ship is the super-tiny Celebrity Xploration. Based in the Galapagos, it measures 320 tons, just a tiny fraction of the size of Celebrity Beyond, and it holds just 16 passengers.

Or, to put it another way, Celebrity Xploration holds fewer passengers than a lifeboat on Celebrity Beyond.

Are bigger Celebrity Cruises ships coming?

Not right now. Celebrity Cruises currently has two new cruise ships on order. However, each of the vessels is projected to be roughly the same size as the recently unveiled Celebrity Beyond — about 141,000 tons.

That size estimate can change, of course, as construction on the ships draws closer to completion. Celebrity might add elements to the ships that increase their size.

The first of the two ships on order, Celebrity Ascent, is due to start sailing in December 2023. It will be followed by an as-yet-unnamed vessel in 2025.

The two Celebrity Cruises ships on order will be the fourth and fifth ships in Celebrity's Edge-class series of vessels that began debuting in 2018. The first three ships in the series are Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond.

The Edge-class vessels are being built at the giant Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

Related: 5 things to love about Celebrity Beyond

What's the difference between bigger and smaller Celebrity Cruises ships?

The biggest Celebrity cruise ships have room for more onboard venues and attractions than smaller Celebrity ships. That makes them more alluring for vacationers who prefer a big resort experience with lots of options as compared to a stay at a smaller resort.

On Celebrity's biggest vessel, Celebrity Beyond, for instance, you'll find an expanded "resort-within-a-resort" area for suite passengers called The Retreat that isn't on the smaller vessels in the same Edge-class series or on other smaller ships in the Celebrity fleet. It offers a new two-story sun deck with hot tubs, lounge chairs and private cabanas that are open exclusively to passengers staying in suites.

Celebrity Beyond also has 179 more cabins than its smaller sister vessels, Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Edge, which each have 1,467 cabins. As a result, it holds 3,260 passengers at double occupancy. That's up from a 2,910-passenger capacity at double occupancy for Celebrity Apex and a 2,908-passenger capacity at double occupancy for Celebrity Edge.

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

Celebrity's smaller Millennium-class ships, by contrast, only carry about 2,100 passengers at double occupancy. As a result, they have a more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships.

That makes the latter vessels a good choice for someone who wants to try Celebrity but isn't eager to travel with big crowds. The smaller ships in the Celebrity fleet thus appeal to a subset of Celebrity fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Celebrity loyalty perks

Celebrity's three very small Galapagos-based vessels have the most intimate feel of all. They are like tiny little boutique hotels that float.

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Celebrity Solstice Review

Celebrity Solstice broke new ground when it debuted in 2008, and while several fleetmates have undergone what the line calls "Revolutionized" status , this vessel has not. That means that it lacks some areas and amenities that are now standard on the line.

That being said, Celebrity Solstice still has plenty of oomph. Nature is a theme on Solstice, with its large tree anchoring one of its atriums, a live plant wall in its Solarium pool and of course, the real grass that makes up the Lawn Club on the top deck.

Holding 2,850 guests at double occupancy, Celebrity Solstice flourishes wherever it is deployed, be that Australia, Asia or Alaska. The Sky Lounge, with its bank of windows, is perfect for wildlife viewing in Alaska and scenic cruising anywhere else. The Lawn, with its private Alcoves for rent, is a draw when the ship is in warm climates and two pools, indoor and outdoor, mean that you can swim, no matter what the weather.

Celebrity Solstice Deck Plan Has Multiple Atriums, With Easy Flow In Between

Unlike some cruise ships, Celebrity Solstice and the vessels in its class that came after it -- Celebrity Eclipse , Celebrity Equinox , Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Reflection -- have more than one atrium area. Despite this, the ship is easy to navigate, especially if you remember the cruising adage that "the fun" -- the theater, spa and kids' and teen areas-- are in the front, while the "food" (main dining room, specialty restaurants, buffet) are in the back.

The "main" atrium opens fully to decks 3, 4 and 5, around an area called the Grand Foyer. Activities such as archery (yes, archery) and dance parties such as the Silent Disco take place here at all hours of the day into the night. (People center themselves around the atrium to watch the fun.) Some of the more popular venues, such as Cafe al Bacio, Sushi on Five and the ice-covered Martini Bar, are located off the Grand Foyer; it's always a bustling area and sometimes can lack seating at prime hours. Make sure you check out the signature live tree when you use the elevators.

From the main atrium, you can take two paths to the theater. One side brings you past shops and venues like the Quasar nightclub, while the other takes you through the (happily,  nonsmoking) casino. A smaller entertainment venue, Celebrity Connections, is often used for lectures and other events when there's a show going on in the larger theater.

The Lido Deck on 14 is where you'll find both of Celebrity Solstice's pools. The covered Solarium is adults only, most of the day, and provides ample and airy seating, even when the weather isn't great. The outdoor pool is a nice size, with seating alcoves nearby (unlike on Edge-class ships, these primo lounges are free) and also facing outward.

While the pool can feel hectic on sunny days, the Lawn Club on Deck 15 provides a lush alternative. Although Celebrity has monetized some of the best spots -- the hut-like Alcoves are rented by the day -- there is still room for people to enjoy the greenery and play lawn bowling or bocce ball. The Hot Glass Studio is up here as well; if you want to take a class, book as soon as you board. The Sunset Bar at the back of the ship is one of the best sailaway points.

Rooms on Celebrity Solstice Have Regular Balconies

The cabins on Celebrity Solstice are functional, with choices for different traveling groups. One thing we missed were outlets and USB ports near the bed, now a necessity on newer cruise ships. Purists who love real walk-out balconies will be happy with the choices on Solstice; the ship does not have the infinite balcony cabins that dominate the Edge-class vessels.

Storage can seem tight at first, but if you're having trouble fitting everything, look up over the beds. We didn’t discover the large cabinets there until toward the end of the cruise; the space is perfect for storing bulky jackets and cold weather gear on Alaska itineraries.

Cabins to avoid on Celebrity Solstice include the balcony cabins with obstructed views on Deck 6, as the lifeboats/tenders dominate your field of vision (and inhibit good picture taking). We also heard that forward cabins were especially susceptible to noise from the foghorn on an Alaska itinerary.

The Food on Celebrity Solstice Meets Expectations, Some Specialty Options Hidden

There was a time when Celebrity had some of the best mainstream cruise dining. We wouldn’t say that's the case now, as other lines have made more forward-thinking cuisine investments. Celebrity has stated publicly that it's looking to reduce food waste and promote efficiencies; the result of that, unfortunately, is that diners have fewer options than they did a few years ago.

Still, you won't go hungry on Celebrity Solstice and the main dining room, the glass-filled Grand Epernay, is an impressive home base. The Oceanview Cafe is likewise airy, although it can be difficult at peak hours to find a seat. The Spa Cafe and Mast Grill round out the ship's complimentary options, although these venues do close at dinner. Suite guests have dining privileges at Luminae, with a menu boasting dishes from celebrity chef Daniel Boulud, while Aqua Class passengers can eat at Blu.

The main specialty restaurants onboard provide Italian ( Tuscan Grille ); French ( Murano ) and Asian ( Sushi on Five ) options. The animated dining experience Le Petit Chef takes place nightly in the Silk Harvest restaurant.

There are also a variety of special meals that almost appear like pop-ups in your daily planner that are special interest to foodies. Two are based in Murano -- the Chef's Table menu with Boulud dishes and also a special Veuve Cliquot pairing meal. We also didn't act fast enough to snag a spot at a special extra-fee Alaska Seafood Shack lunch in the Tuscan Grille. If long epicurean feasts are your vacation jam, make sure you look for these, either before you go or as soon as you get onboard.

Bottom Line

Included with your cruise fare:.

* Meals in the main dining room, the Oceanview Cafe buffet, select snacks and continental breakfast room service

Nearly all activities unless noted below or in the daily program

Most onboard entertainment including all production shows in the theater

Use of the gym (excluding yoga and most fitness classes)

Gratuities (but only for those from Australia or New Zealand and paid in AU and NZ dollars)

Not included with your cruise fare:

Automatic 20 percent gratuity added to all beverage and mini-bar purchases (18% for spa and salon services)

All drinks onboard except water, tea (including iced tea), basic coffees and select juices from the Oceanview Cafe buffet

Meals at specialty restaurants and snack venues

Spa treatments

Fitness classes

Access to the Persian Garden thermal suite (except for those in AquaClass staterooms, for whom entry is free)

Daily activities including, but not limited to, alcohol tastings, select game shows, bingo and art auctions

Shore excursions

Wi-Fi packages

Artwork and onboard photos from the photo gallery

Fellow Passengers

Who is on board celebrity solstice.

Celebrity Solstice echoes the line's commitment to diversity and inclusion; you'll see people of all backgrounds and identities on the ship. Meetups for veterans, solo travelers, LGBTQ+ and sober cruisers take place daily. In addition, Celebrity hosts a Pride party onboard once per sailing in June.

Families are also welcome on Celebrity Solstice. On our Alaska sailing, we saw multiple variations of multigenerational cruising -- adult children with parents in their 80s; grandparents with grandkids; babies and teens as part of a large family reunion. It's also a good ship for girlfriend getaways -- so many opportunities to dance! -- and couples.

Find a Celebrity Solstice Cruise from $595

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The 10 Best Cruise Lines for Adults, According to a Kid-Free Cruiser

A kids-free zone.

Even though I’ve noticed a trend in the cruise industry leaning towards more family-friendly fleets (I’m looking at you, Royal Caribbean ), a lot of us still see the perks of a kid-free vacation. And while many (if not all) cruises have dedicated spaces for adults on board, sometimes you don’t want to be pigeon-holed into one area for the entirety of your trip in order to get some peace and quiet. So, I went on the hunt to find the best cruise lines for adults, so you can relax and have fun with the 21-and-over crowd. 

The Best Cruises for Adults at a Glance

Virgin Voyages

Best for Older Travelers

Most Luxurious Cruise

Best Amenities

Best Destination Options

Oceania cruises, how i chose the best cruise lines for adults.

I’ve been on seven cruises since 2018, including Princess, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean. I have firsthand experience on each cruise line’s amenities, food, entertainment and more. I also spent time researching all the cruise lines on this list (especially the ones I’ve never been on) and did a deep dive to find out key destinations, ship information and star perks aboard their vessels. I even took it a step further and checked out reviews straight from the people—i.e., on places like Reddit, TikTok and travel blogs. 

1. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages came on the scene in 2021 and promised to create a cruise line for adults. In four years, it launched three ships: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady and gave guests full access to all its amenities. Per their website, the cruise line strives to let passengers try out over 20 eateries, participate in unlimited group fitness classes, enjoy free Wi-Fi and check live entertainment at an affordable price. 

Speaking of entertainment, the cruise line takes it up a notch with their theme nights like PJ Party (aka a cool pajama party) and We Fancy (dress code: elegant), along with epic dance parties like Heartbeat inspired by Brooklyn’s own House of Yes , performances like Duel Reality which tells a modern interpretation of Romeo & Juliet and immersive experiences to get you involved in the show. Let’s not forget other fun activities to surely make a vacation a memorable one: ala private karaoke booths, casinos and a multi-story nightclub. 

• Best for:  night owls
• Minimum Age:  18+
• Popular Destinations:  Puerto Plata, Santorini, Ibiza, Costa Maya, Amsterdam
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, shops, bars, spa, pools, casino
• Price Range:  $1,032 to $5,364 per person

Viking Cruises

If you’re searching for a cruise line for adults, Viking should be on the top of your list. The cruise line is best known for their ocean, river and expedition cruises for adults 18 and over. According to  their website , “All guests must be 18 years old on or before the day they are scheduled to embark on their cruise; we do not maintain facilities or services on board for younger individuals.” Since 2000, Viking has always made it their mission to target older travelers, more specifically those over 55 to join their ships, so don’t expect to see any kiddos running around.

Viking currently has over 60 ships in their fleet that travel all around the world. You can take an iconic Western Mediterranean trip (Barcelona to Rome), a Grand  European  tour (Budapest to Amsterdam) or a Great Lakes voyage (Toronto to Minnesota). While many of the ships feature pools, restaurants, a library room and theater, most travelers go for the thrilling excursions and even participate in lectures specifically found on the expedition ships (Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris) that are great for the curious scientist or animal lover. 

• Best for:  adventure seekers
• Popular Destinations:  Rome, Athens, Sydney, Vancouver, Shanghai
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, hair salon, shops, bars, spa, pools
• Price Range:  $1,999 to $79,995 per person

3. Seabourn

This luxurious cruise line provides an intimate and personalized experience that will make you feel like you’re vacationing on a yacht. Per their website, their ships can carry between 264 and 600 guests at time (compared to Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas can hold over 5,000 passengers). As a result, the bookings are extremely popular and limited. (In fact, it appears that most of their summer dates are already sold out.) While the minimum age is 6 years old, the target audience is around 35 and older, according to  Travel Weekly.  So, whether you’re looking for a traditional cruise or an expedition, Seabourn offers trips all around the world for seven to 30 days at sea—which gives you ample time to enjoy a relaxing massage at their spa, try to win big at the casino or have a dip in the pool. All of their ships also include live entertainment, fine dining and an all-inclusive package. 

• Best for:  smaller crowds
• Minimum Age:  6+
• Popular Destinations:  Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Monte Carlo, Alaska
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, hair salon, shops, bars, spa, pools, casino
• Price Range:  $7,436 to $10,299 per person

4. Celebrity

While Celebrity allows travelers of all ages to board their ships, travel site  Sophisticated Travel  found that most passengers are between their 40s and 50s. As  one redditor commented , “[I] have cruised Celebrity a few times. They have a few amenities for kids, so there are [a] few kids. [However] if [there] were any kids they were not really noticeable. In our experience no waterslides/waterparks equal very few kids on board.” The cruise line has been around since the ‘90s and currently has 16 ships in its fleet, traveling to port stops  like  Key West, Florida  to Athens,  Greece . The best part is you can schedule a weekend getaway or a long holiday for the entire season. 

The cruise line prides itself on its extensive food and beverage options, using world-renowned chef dishes in their specialty restaurants and a wide selection of cocktails at your disposal. Plus, fun entertainment and  nightlife events  exclusively for adults like the Undercover, which is an exhibition inspired by the 1920s, and the Jazz Joint that turns the ship’s signature club into a speakeasy. Plus, most ships feature the Solarium, a space only for adults to lounge around and explore the inside pool minus kids. 

• Best for:  entertainment 
• Minimum Age:  6 months
• Popular Destinations:  Bahamas, Barcelona, Vancouver, Florence, St. Kitts & Nevis
• Amenities:  globally inspired cuisines, fitness center, shops, bars, spa, pools, casino
• Price Range:  $237 to $17,535 per person

5. Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises only has six ships, but it’s been around since the early aughts. They sail around the world with destinations to New Zealand, Asia, Africa and 130 other locations. In fact, Oceania offers some of the longest stays on this list. Sure, you can cruise for a weekend or seven days, but the cruise line also offers long durations like a 200 days vacation—departing from Miami, Florida and visiting Caribbean islands (St. Maarten, Barbados) and parts of Brazil before arriving to New York. The cruise line is also known for its culinary experiences and enrichment programs. They have a dedicated library room so you can read comfortably as you sail, as well as guest lectures to learn more about the destinations you’re visiting and classes to learn how the meals are prepared. 

And if you’re wondering if the cruise line is ‘adult-enough,’  one Tripadvisor commenter  believes it a huge hit for the 50+ crowd: “I would not recommend it unless it’s a port intensive trip. There are no activities for kids. The average age on board is 60s and above. They have trivia, bingo [and] needlepoint (cooking classes and art classes are hard to get). The entertainment is usually a string quartet and maybe a magician if you’re lucky. I wouldn’t take my adult children in their 30s for fear of their boredom. I would try Disney or Celebrity.” 

• Best for:  world travelers
• Popular Destinations:  Lisbon, Iceland, Tokyo, Montreal, New York
• Amenities:  globally inspired cuisines, fitness center, bars, spa, pools
• Price Range:  $799 to $62,999 per person

6. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian cruise line.

I’ve personally been on three Norwegian cruises ( twice on Prima ) and found very few children on board. While there are many thrill-seeking amenities fit for the whole family, there are plenty of ways to stray away from the younger folks. I found Norwegian Prima’s guests skew a bit older based on their upscale aesthetic around the ship that looks straight out of the MOMA museum. I appreciate Norwegian for its freestyle experience, with specialty and complimentary dining options that provide items outside of your usual pizza and hot dog joint. 

The Norwegian Prima is also home to one of largest spas I’ve ever seen at sea. There are two gigantic pools, a few sauna rooms and a large lounge area overlooking the ocean. I spent hours in there just taking in the quiet and calming ambience. Plus, the live productions of  Summer: The Donna Summer Musical  and tribute shows that honor the like of Michael Jackson or Adele are just some of the ways they cater towards millennials, Gen Xers and boomers. Most ships even have dedicated pubs and intimate bars that play classic music from the 60s to early ‘00s, too.

• Best for:  freestyle dining
• Popular Destinations:  Alaska, Hawaii, Mykonos, Florence, Iceland
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, bars, spa, pools, activities
• Price Range:  $79 to $10,799 per person

Best Entertainment

7. holland america line, holland america line.

A cruise line owned by Carnival (a popular family-friend cruise company), Holland America Line is possibly the oldest cruise line of the bunch. It dates back to 1873 and was used as cargo and transportation service. Today, the ships are used for leisure as they travel all around the world, docking in the likes of Hawaii and Japan. You can spend a day—or 53 days—sailing with each ship. According to  Reddit , cruisers have seen families and smaller children, but found the majority of guests were over 40. 

A standout feature of their newer ships is the entertainment on board. If you’re a music lover, ships like the Rotterdam and Koningsdam have the B.B King’s Blues Club and Rolling Stone Lounge that cater to playing the classic hits. Holland America Line also partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to provide state of the art pickleball courts with impeccable views, as well as a casino and a spa, so every guest can find an activity they can enjoy on vacation.  

• Best for:  music lovers
• Popular Destinations:  Montreal, Rome, Alaska, The Netherlands, Seattle
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, bars, spa, pools, activities, casino
• Price Range:  $94 to $27,399 per person

Best Suites

8. regent seven seas cruise, regent seven seas cruise.

Regent Seven Seas Cruise currently has six ships put the luxury in luxurious vacation. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent has been around for 30 years and continues to be a popular pick for older adults. As  one travel critic shared , the cruise line has an average of passengers that are over 40 on their ships due to its all-inclusive regent experience. The 2-in-1 deal features round-trip flight, unlimited shore excursions, unlimited Wi-Fi and more. They also stand apart from their competitors with their suite-only accommodations. Per  their website , Regent promises incredible ocean views and a private balcony just for you. Plus, 24-hour room service and all the traditional amenities (i.e., spa, fitness center and casino) that makes a cruise worthwhile. 

• Best for:  luxurious accommodations
• Popular Destinations:  London, Lisbon, Barcelona, San Juan, Instanbul
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, spa, pools, activities, casino
• Price Range:  $4,199 to $101,499 per person

Best Inclusive Package

9. silversea cruises.

Silversea is a luxury cruise line that’s great for romantic getaways. Once you step on board, you’re treated to  personalized service  (like 24-hour butler service), part of the inclusive package for each guest. Similar to Regent, there’s unlimited shore excursions, so you can explore every port on your trip. The fleet reaches about 900 destinations, including Galápagos Island, French Polynesia and Antarctica. The cruise line also offers complimentary beverages and fine dining. The most popular is the S.A.L.T Kitchen, which provides dishes based on your destinations. There’s even a more exclusive chef option only on their Nova-class ships for a more intimate setting. It offers the same experience with more food and wine options ready to try out. 

• Best for:  destinations
• Popular Destinations:  Galapagos, Venice, Norway, Copenhagen, Alaska
• Amenities:  restaurants, fitness center, lounges, spa, pools, activities, casino
• Price Range:  $2,800 to $131,700 per person

Editor's Pick

10. princess cruises, princess cruises.

I recently traveled with Princess Cruises, and I highly recommend it for adults who aren’t traveling with kids in mind. As mentioned, I’ve been on seven cruises, and this by far has been the least family-friendly cruise line—in a good way! Although there were some kids and teens, the ship was made of mostly older travelers. I was actually surprised by how much it catered to adults over kids. It didn’t have many thrilling amenities like waterslides or an expansive basketball court that usually draw the younger crowds, but there were plenty of things that made the ship thrilling and exciting for mature folks.

For instance, Spellbound, an interactive cocktail experience hat features magicians, an exclusive bar and experimental dishes. There’s also Love by Britto, a dining experience which is heart-themed (down to the utensils) and sets a romantic vibe for couples. Additionally, all Princess ships have many ways to unwind and have fun that cater toward adults, like including their spa, theaters and pool decks.In fact, their latest ship, the Sun Princess, also has the Sanctuary, a pool area set apart from the rest of the ship that’s strictly for adults, so you can lounge under the sun all day without interruption. 

• Best for:  immersive dining
• Popular Destinations:  Sydney, Vancouver, San Juan, London, Barcelona
• Price Range:  $127 to $23,398 per person

The 7 Best Cruise Lines for Families, Vetted by a Frequent Cruise

Associate Editor, Ultimate Fangirl, Aspiring Beauty Guru

FEATURE STORY

Cruise Ships are Revving up

It looks like 2023 is the year that vacations take to the ocean again en masse. The vessels are larger and more decked out than ever

By Fran Golden

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

Cruise ships are on a mission to recapture the seas. The COVID pandemic forced cruise lines to pull their ships into port, but now that health concerns have eased, passengers are returning. They are finding an industry reborn.

As a longtime travel journalist, I have been on 170 ships, and I have seen how cruise lines can engage in a hospitality arms race. Before the pandemic struck, many new megaships were already on order, but the delay in launching means that 2023 will feel even more momentous for the industry. Come with us as we look at the crazy-huge world of cruises.

An adults-only deck on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

SHIP DESIGN

Making Big Ships Feel Less Big

THERE’S AN interesting paradox about megaships. The extreme sizes mean that cruise lines can add more and more things to do, but at some point, ships may become too large for passengers to easily enjoy. And so Royal Caribbean has divided its Icon of the Seas ship, to launch next year, into eight “neighborhoods,” the idea being that you choose the section that suits your interests and mostly stay in that area. One neighborhood caters to families with children, for example, while another is meant for young singles and couples.

Carnival Cruise Line has “adults-only spaces,” where passengers can enjoy some peace and quiet around hot tubs, pools and bars, away from the family crowd.

Royal Caribbean has a show with superhero characters.

ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway Shows and Ways to Play Onstage

THE OLD Las Vegas–style revues are long gone. Now singers and dancers recruited from Broadway and London’s West End appear in slightly truncated versions of Broadway shows such as Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, which on the Norwegian Prima morphs into a big disco party with the audience.

Daytime entertainment likewise has been updated. While the old belly flop and hairy chest contests are out, a replacement has emerged: On Carnival’s Mardi Gras and its sister ships, you can watch—or play!— Family Feud Live .

Carnival Cruise Line’s Bolt roller coaster

Board a Floating Theme Park

ROLLER coasters are thrilling enough, but one at sea gives you the sensation of flying above the vast ocean blue. Melisa Colby, 62, has ridden the coaster on Carnival’s 5,282-passenger Mardi Gras. “The first time, I screamed,” says the preschool teacher from Jacksonville, Florida. “The second, third and fourth times, I was smiling and putting my arms up in the air.”

On Royal Caribbean’s Icon, travelers will enjoy a water park with six slides. Nearby, on an attraction that’s a combination skywalk, ropes course and thrill ride, you’ll be able to strap on a harness and walk a plank. At the end of the plank, the bottom drops out, and you’ll swing 154 feet above the ocean.

The Norwegian Prima Speedway

Norwegian Cruise Line’s new 3,100-passenger Norwegian Prima is topped with a go-kart track. Another attraction is a 10-deck drop in a waterless tube slide mostly suspended off the side of the ship.

Food on Celebrity Beyond

Eat Your Way Around the World

FOOD HAS always been a cruising calling card, and it has gotten better and more varied to reflect the growing “foodie” culture. Global flavors and vegan and vegetarian options are getting more play, and cruise companies have finally realized that their passengers might like to taste food from the destinations they’re visiting, such as jerk chicken when they sail to Jamaica.

To satisfy a whole lot of tastes, the Norwegian Prima has a complimentary Food Hall where you can choose from counters featuring Southern comfort food, Spanish tapas or Indian chicken tikka, to name a few options. “They are leading in trends that we are seeing on land and doing it so well,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor in chief of the leading website Cruise Critic.

From left: Emeril Lagasse; Celebrity Beyond ’s Magic Carpet restaurant

Some cruise lines are adding new specialty restaurants that charge extra for upgraded choices, such as sushi and aged steaks. Big culinary names may be involved. Emeril Lagasse has New Orleans–style bistros on Carnival’s latest ships (a shrimp po’boy won’t break the bank at $6), while the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and sister ship Celebrity Ascent (debuting in December 2023) will boast restaurants by renowned chef Daniel Boulud (from $75 per person for three courses; $125 for five).

Over the years that traveler Jill Dill Vincent, 78, has cruised with Carnival, she has seen more sophisticated menus in the main dining rooms. “I love the lobster,” she says. Her husband, Ken, 74, favors the desserts, especially the “melting chocolate cake.”

Drinks on the Carnival Mardi Gras, left , and the Norwegian Prima

Brewing Up Refreshment

THE CRAFT beer boom can’t be contained by land. The latest Carnival ships have onboard breweries. Also in vogue: molecular cocktails that smoke and change colors. At a bar on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, you can order the Crystal Ball, a tequila drink that arrives in a foggy orb. Norwegian Prima has a “sustainable” bar featuring drinks made with ingredients that might otherwise be discarded, as well as earth-friendly biodynamic wines.

Sea kayaking in Alaska, on a Holland America excursion

PORTS OF CALL

Beyond the Beach

THE CARIBBEAN and Bermuda together represent 44 percent of the world cruise market, according to the Cruise Lines International Association, making them by far the world’s most popular cruise destinations. For North American travelers, cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean are also expected to be popular this year as passengers regain their sea legs.

From left: Wildlife in the Caribbean; salmon fishing on a Princess cruise stop in Alaska.

That’s fairly typical. But what is changing is what travelers do when on shore: “more sustainable and local experiences,” says Roberta Jacoby, a hospitality and travel industry consultant. Cruise lines are fulfilling demand with cultural, adventure, multigenerational, lifestyle and wellness addon shore excursions via local operators. On Holland America Line and Princess Cruises ships in Alaska, you can go salmon fishing with a local fisherman and, after you reel in “the big one,” have your catch cooked by the ship’s chefs. On a Caribbean cruise, you might visit an ecopark and farm that promotes environmental education on St. Kitts or skip the beach in favor of a green monkey encounter at a wildlife reserve in Barbados.

Fran Golden is an award-winning travel journalist and the author of numerous travel books, including 100 Things to Do in Alaska Before You Die.

COMPARE THE COSTS*

Visit the Caribbean by sea, or stay at a resort? Sample trips for a couple from Chicago:

MIDRANGE Seven-night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas from Miami

February 25 to March 4

PRICE: $2,070 for Oceanview Cabin, including food and many activities

NOTES: Alcohol, onboard Wi-Fi, tipping and shore excursions are extra, plus $200 for hotel on night before departure.

AIRFARE: $225 round trip per person

TOTAL: About $2,720 plus onboard extras

MIDRANGE Seven-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Vista from Miami

March 9 to 16

PRICE: $6,698 for a Veranda Stateroom, including food and onboard activities

NOTES: Wi-Fi included; alcohol and excursions are extra, plus $200 for hotel on night before departure.

AIRFARE: $380 per person

TOTAL: About $7,660 plus onboard extras

LUXURY Seven nights at Secrets Aura Cozumel

PRICE: $4,981 for a Junior Suite at this Mexican oceanfront resort, spa and dive center. That includes unlimited dining, drinking and tips.

NOTES: Off-resort trips and activities are not included.

AIRFARE: $206 per person

TOTAL: About $5,395 plus off-resort extras

LUXURY Seven nights at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

PRICE: $7,299 for a Caribbean Honeymoon Walkout room at this oceanfront resort on a Caribbean island. That includes unlimited dining and drinking.

AIRFARE: $536 per person

TOTAL: About $8,370 plus off-resort extras

*Sources: royalcaribbean.com , amrcollection.com , oceaniacruises.com , sandals.com , kayak.com . Prices are as of December 5, 2022.

STAY HEALTHY WHILE AT SEA

IN THE WAKE of the pandemic, cruise ships have upgraded their health and safety systems, from hand sanitizers throughout the ship to medical-grade air filters in the ventilation systems to robots that shoot ultraviolet rays to kill bacteria.

But you’ll no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to board many ships, though unvaccinated travelers are still encouraged to provide a negative COVID test result. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which shut down cruising in North America from March 2020 to June 2021, ended its intense monitoring of the industry in July 2022, saying that cruise passengers “can make their own risk assessment when choosing to cruise, much like they do in other settings.”

Here’s what to expect:

→ Cruise ship medical centers have been upgraded with equipment to test for COVID-19, and medical teams have added personnel to better treat anyone who falls ill, even severely ill.

→ When a passenger tests positive, contact tracing commences. On some ships, security cameras will use facial recognition to aid in this task; on the big ships with thousands of passengers you may be traced via an app on your smartphone or a smart wristband provided at check-in.

→ Passengers who get sick will be confined to their cabins or cabins set aside for quarantine purposes. Meals will be delivered to those rooms.

→ Wearing a mask is a personal choice.

SHIP SIZE REALLY DOES MATTER

TRANSATLANTIC OCEAN LINERS

1911 RMS Titanic

882.9 feet 2,435 passengers

RMS Queen Mary 1,019.5 feet

2,038 passengers

RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 964.5 feet

2,081 passengers

PLEASURE SHIPS

1971 Pacific Princess (the “Love Boat”)

550 feet  750 passengers

1972 TSS Mardi Gras 650 feet

1,240 passengers

1988 Royal Caribbean Sovereign of the Seas (first “megaship”)

2,690 passengers

1996 Carnival Destiny 893 feet

3,350 passengers

2009 Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas 1,187 feet

6,771 passenger

2020 Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas 1,188 feet

7,084 passengers

ETA 2024 Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas 1,198 feet

7,600 passengers

Aboard Wind Surf , a Windstar Cruises ship, in Majorca, Spain

ANOTHER ROUTE

Small Ships Can Come Up Big

THE AVERAGE ocean cruise ship carries about 2,125 passengers. But sharing a boat with so many people isn’t for everyone, which is why many smaller-ship excursions have become available.

“People who think that cruise ships have not changed since The Love Boat or that all ships are built for 5,000 of your closest friends are simply wrong,” says Rob Clabbers, president of Q Cruise + Travel in Chicago.

Small ships that carry fewer than 1,000 passengers don’t have amusement park attractions, but they have other benefits, especially for older travelers, including a more adult crowd. Viking bans anyone under age 18 on its 930-passenger ocean ships and on its riverboats.

A trio performs in the Wintergarden on a Viking cruise, which also offers tea service.

With their shallow drafts, small ships can navigate into more out-of-the-way places. It’s the difference between, say, docking next to other megaships in bustling St. Thomas and then getting passengers to shore via shuttle boats, and anchoring next to the superyachts of the rich and famous in trendy St. Barts. Since small ships don’t need to keep track of thousands of passengers, they also tend to stay longer in port, giving passengers more time to enjoy local dining and nightlife.

The Evrima , a 149-suite ship that is part of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet.

On most of these cruises, you will pay a premium. Want a weeklong trip on a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection ship that carries 298 passengers? That goes for $7,000 to $25,000 for most seven-night cruises. A cruise to Antarctica on equivalent lines costs about that much too. But some small-ship companies will reduce prices to less than $3,000 per person for seven-night sailings in the competitive Caribbean and during quieter seasons, such as fall and winter, in Europe.

SOME LEADING SMALL-SHIP CRUISE LINES

→ Windstar Cruises This line has a fleet of three 148- to 342-passenger sailing ships and three all-suite 312-passenger motor yachts. The informal environment on voyages features a lavish buffet served under the stars.

→ Viking Ocean ships These ships follow the same all-inclusive model as the company’s riverboats in Europe. Viking in 2022 topped award lists by both  Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.

→ Azamara cruises The line’s four upscale ships top out at around 700 passengers and include cultural events with local performers.

→ Other premium lines Also consider Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. Or look for older ships on mass-market lines, some of which carry fewer than 3,000 passengers. —F.G .

From top: Courtesy Royal Caribbean Cruises; Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line; Courtesy Royal Caribbean Cruises; Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line; Courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line; Courtesy Celebrity Cruises; (from left) John Lamparski/Getty Images, Courtesy Celebrity Cruises; (from left) Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line, Courtesy Gene Sloan/The Points Guy; (from left) Courtesy Princess Cruise Lines, Adrian Davies/NPL/Minden Pictures; Courtesy Michael Nalley/ Windstar Cruises; Courtesy Charissa Fay/Viking Cruises (2); Courtesy Jack Hardy/The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection; Courtesy Windstar Cruises; Courtesy Charissa Fay/Viking Cruises; Courtesy Jenna Lyn/Azamara; Courtesy Holland America

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Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America Line's Tamarind restaurant offers delicious Pan-Asian cuisine.

Taking a cruise vacation transports you to coveted destinations in places around the world. For many people, though, it's all about the culinary experience, especially for those who return time and again to dine at their favorite onboard venues – many of which rival the best restaurants you'll find on land. While most cruise lines still offer all-you-can-eat buffet-style venues, some also feature next-level culinary experiences with world-renowned chefs at the helm, menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, and immersive food and beverage programs.

If you're a foodie looking for the cruise lines with the best food, U.S. News has compiled this list of cruise lines focused on delivering an extraordinary dining experience, based on expert opinion and reviews. We've also highlighted two of the venues on each line that receive accolades for outstanding food and service.

Luxury cruise lines

Mainstream cruise lines.

Find your perfect cruise

Oceania Cruises

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises' culinary program has long been regarded as one of the best of any cruise line – and the company has even trademarked the term "The Finest Cuisine at Sea." Jacques Pépin, the renowned French master chef, has been the executive culinary director since 2003; he has inspired the menus and cuisine on board the line's seven small luxury ships since that time, including the newest vessel, Vista . Oceania is also committed to sourcing the best ingredients from destinations around the world. In addition, the line has a high ratio of culinary staff to guests, and the ship's galleys are outfitted with equipment you'd typically see in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Guests can book exclusive Culinary Discovery Tours on two of the ships, Marina and Riviera . Hone your culinary skills or learn to prepare new types of cuisine at The Culinary Center, found on Marina, Riviera and Vista. You'll also find special wine-tasting and Champagne events in partnership with La Reserve by Wine Spectator. In addition, the line has just announced its first Culinary Masters' Cruise featuring Oceania's two French master chefs aboard Marina in October 2024.

Most of the dining venues are complimentary on Oceania Cruises (except for Privée and La Reserve), and options run the gamut from French and Asian cuisine to Italian fare and steakhouse specialties. There are also new culinary concepts on board Vista – including Ember, which features American classics, as well as Aquamar Kitchen, a venue focused on healthy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Here are two of Oceania's best restaurants:

• Red Ginger: Red Ginger's colorful red and gold interiors, designed with feng shui in mind, draw guests in when they enter the restaurant, but it's the bold Asian flavors that keep them coming back for more. With Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese specialties to choose from, diners will enjoy selections such as caramelized tiger prawns, crispy ginger calamari, red and green curries, and bulgogi rib-eye steak. Red Ginger is available on Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Vista.
• Toscana: The hearty cuisine inspired by Tuscan and northern Italian flavors at Toscana is served on Versace china that's custom designed for the restaurant. Diners should come with an appetite to enjoy several courses before the main event, including a hot or cold antipasti or soup, a selection of pastas, and a classic version of Caesar salad prepared tableside. Traditional main dish favorites include osso buco alla Milanese, veal scaloppini, lobster fra diavolo and Dover sole. Toscana is available on Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Marina, Riviera and Vista.

Book an  Oceania Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea is another cruise line known for its culinary excellence. Guests will find a selection of international venues featuring Italian, Asian and French cuisine on board the line's fleet of 12 ships.

S.A.L.T., an immersive dining experience that stands for "Sea and Land Taste," is available on Silver Nova , Silver Moon and Silver Dawn . The S.A.L.T. program was created by Adam Sachs, former editor-in-chief of Saveur magazine and three-time James Beard journalism award winner. The innovative program invites guests to experience the destination and local food culture through on-board hands-on activities, including making local recipes in the S.A.L.T. Lab. You can also attend cooking demonstrations and lectures, or book in-depth culinary excursions to working organic farms, Sicilian pasticcerias (where you'll learn how to make pastries) and vineyards in destinations around the world.

The all-inclusive luxury line's restaurant venues are complimentary with the following exceptions: French fine dining restaurant La Dame; the S.A.L.T. Chef's Table experience available on Silver Nova; Seishin Restaurant, which serves Asian fusion dishes on Silver Spirit; and Kaiseki, the Japanese, sushi and teppanyaki venue available on five Silversea ships.

These are two standout dining venues on Silversea:

• S.A.L.T. Kitchen: S.A.L.T. Kitchen's menu changes daily inspired by the destination, but diners will also find a "Voyage" menu that reflects the influences from the overall region of the itinerary. The daily "Terrain" menu in Italy might include dishes likes prawns cooked in a cherry tomato sauce with garlic, white wine and parsley or a classic risotto with clams topped with a pan-fried filet of sole. The "Voyage" menu on an Eastern Mediterranean sailing would feature dishes from Greece, Croatia and Italy. The immersive dining experience is available on Silver Ray, Moon, Dawn and Nova.
• La Dame: The curated menu at La Dame was created by Silversea's top chefs and is served in an elegant contemporary space with white-glove table service. The cuisine pays homage to classic French gastronomy along with modern techniques and flair. Guests can expect to dine on traditional French dishes such as seared duck foie gras, French onion soup, lobster bisque, Dover sole and souffles for dessert. La Dame is available on all the line's ships, except for Silver Origin.

Find a  Silversea Cruise  on GoToSea.

Explora Journeys

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

MSC Group's new luxury brand, Explora Journeys, features a top-notch culinary program with a team of international chefs at the helm. Acclaimed chef Franck Garanger, the line's head of culinary, has been recognized as a French master chef since 2008; he has also overseen the culinary programs for both Silversea and Oceania cruises before joining Explora.

According to Garanger, Explora Journeys has one of the highest chef-to-guest ratios and food costs of any cruise line, which is why you'll see offerings like freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, ceviche, free range and organic chicken, made-to-order grilled fish, and other freshly prepared items in Emporium Marketplace, Explora's globally inspired all-day dining venue. There's also a large focus on plant-based dishes, wellness and healthy menu selections in venues across the ship.

The first of six 922-guest superyacht-style vessels, Explora I, offers guests a choice of six restaurant venues, including the French-inspired Fil Rouge; Marble & Co. Grill, an elegant European steakhouse; and Med Yacht Club, which features delightful Mediterranean cuisine. Guests will also enjoy boutique international and regional wines; try a glass of Moët & Chandon, Explora's "house" Champagne.

During your "journey," you can also attend cooking classes at the Chef's Kitchen, a private dining and culinary school with lead enrichment chef Jean-Louis Dumonet at the helm. Another world-class chef, Dumonet received the distinction of becoming a French master chef in 1994 and has had a very successful culinary career, including achieving his first Michelin star at age 28.

Explore these standouts in Explora's culinary program:

• Sakura: This beautiful Pan-Asian restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The bright and airy design features cherry blossoms suspended from the ceilings and Asian-inspired decor. The authentic dining experience also boasts an open kitchen and a sushi bar with many ingredients sourced from Japan, and the venue has outdoor seating and indoor tables with floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Begin your evening with an Asian-inspired cocktail and a starter of crispy duck leg confit, wagyu beef tataki or soft-shell crab tempura. Main dish highlights include a miso black cod fillet, 72-hour slow-cooked short rib beef panang and an addictive lobster pad Thai.
• Anthology: The innovative concept at Anthology "is imagined as a unique culinary stage showcasing global cooking talents and cuisines, provenance and rare ingredients along with wines by highly coveted winemakers." The tasting menus are curated by a rotation of top chefs that changes throughout the year. The first chef who opened the new ship, Mauro Uliassi, has a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the coastal town of Senigallia, Italy. The second chef (through April 2024) is Swedish-born Emma Bengtsson, executive chef at the two-Michelin-starred Aquavit in New York. Anthology is the only dining venue on Explora I that comes at an additional cost. There's also an optional wine pairing.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas' culinary program, "Epicurean Indulgence," features top-notch dining experiences on board the luxury line's six ships. Guests will also find educational hands-on cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen and Epicurean Explorer tours focused on the wines, spirits and regional foods in destinations around the world. Regents' all-inclusive cruise fares include as many as seven dining venues (depending on the ship), that feature French, Italian, Pan-Asian and steakhouse restaurants as well as 24-hour in-suite room service. You can also enjoy fine wines and spirits in all the restaurants, bar and lounges.

Regent Seven Seas boasts a variety of excellent restaurants, but here are two top options:

• Pacific Rim: The entrance to Pacific Rim is just as impressive as its food with the floor-to-ceiling bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel that sits just outside the venue. Inside, your evening experience in this beautiful zen-like space begins with a signature cocktail and a difficult decision of which Thai, Japanese, Korean, Chinese or Vietnamese dishes to order for dinner. Begin your meal with a selection of sushi and sashimi, then sample pork and shrimp siu mai or thom kha gai soup. For a main dish, don't miss elevated dishes like miso black cod, Canadian lobster tempura or aromatic duck.
• Compass Rose: Compass Rose is the largest specialty restaurant on Regent's ships, and you'll find the elegant venue across the fleet. The menu features classic favorites and dishes that are always available, including foie gras, escargot, Alaskan crab salad, black Angus cuts of beef, New Zealand lamb chops and a daily choice of pasta. The additional chef's gourmet menu changes daily. If you prefer lighter fare, choose one of the healthy Serene Spa & Wellness selections. Guests can also customize their dining preferences and order from any of the menus.

Explore  Regent Seven Seas  deals on GoToSea.

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Courtesy of Viking

Viking's nine 930-guest and adults-only ocean-going ships offer destination-focused dining highlighting regional cuisine and local specialties. In addition, cruisers will find their favorite classic dishes (some with a twist), such as a Norwegian baby shrimp cocktail, beef tenderloin and linguine with clams in The Restaurant, Viking's main dining venue.

Other dining options include an open kitchen and international fare at World Café, which also has a large alfresco dining area called Aquavit Terrace. For more casual fare, head to Mamsen's, a favorite spot for Norwegian specialties, or stop by the Pool Grill, where you'll find made-to-order burgers and light bites. All of these venues – plus two specialty restaurants, Manfredi's and The Chef's Table – are included in the cruise fare.

Guests on board Viking's ships are also treated to a daily afternoon tea in the Wintergarden, a Scandinavian-inspired, light-filled space located next to the main pool. If you're interested in learning more about destination-focused cuisine, reserve a spot in one of the hands-on cooking classes at The Kitchen Table to learn how to prepare some of the local dishes. These special excursions and culinary classes begin with a visit to a local market and end with an evening of cooking (or watching the dinner preparation) – plus multiple courses of food and wine pairings. There is a fee for the class.

The two specialty restaurants provide an exceptional experience with Viking :

• Manfredi's: Plan to make a reservation at Manfredi's, Viking's Italian restaurant. It features an impressive menu of Italian specialties, including dishes with influence from Tuscany and Rome. Start the evening with a selection of antipasti for two and pasta e fagioli or crème of porcini soup. Then, choose between traditional offerings like osso bucco alla Milanese, rosemary parmesan-crusted lamb or the Tuscan favorite dish bistecca Fiorentina (Florentine-style steak). There are also wonderful fresh pasta dishes and several types of risotto.
• The Chef's Table: The Chef's Table menu changes several times throughout the cruise, allowing guests to sample a variety of multicourse tasting menus that highlight international and regional specialties. The beautiful venue is perfect for a special evening and a "food journey" where you'll savor a selection of Asian, Norwegian, French or other cuisines paired with wines by the ship's master sommelier.

Book a  Viking Ocean Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America's master chef and creative culinary artist, Rudi Sodamin, has been with the line for around 20 years. He also heads up the Culinary Council, a group of well-known chefs who will be on board for culinary cruises scheduled throughout the year. During these special voyages, guests can attend cooking demonstrations and coffee chats and make reservations for exclusive chef-hosted dinners and events throughout the cruise.

Holland America also has a new initiative with Fresh Fish Ambassador, chef and TV personality Masaharu Morimoto (you'll recognize him from "Iron Chef"). The Global Fresh Fish program affords the line the ability to source more than 80 varieties of fresh fish in destinations around the world. In addition, you'll find certified sustainable Alaskan seafood on the menu during Alaska cruises .

Wine aficionados can look for wine tastings and wine blending sessions on board the ship and excursions to wine regions ashore, some in partnership with Food & Wine magazine. Rudi's Sel De Mer is an excellent choice for a fine dining evening, but the French brasserie-inspired venue is only available on three ships.

Here are two of Holland America's top specialty restaurants:

• Pinnacle Grill: Pinnacle Grill, an upscale steakhouse, is a specialty restaurant (with an additional fee) that's available on all of the line's 11 ships. It's a favorite spot for couples to enjoy a romantic evening and features classic dishes like shrimp cocktail, jumbo lump crab cakes, lobster bisque, filet mignon, surf and turf, and grilled lamb chops. Seafood lovers will also find Alaskan king salmon and halibut. Be sure to save room for a twist on a timeless dessert – the not-so-classic baked Alaska with Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia ice cream.
• Tamarind: Tamarind's elegant atmosphere and flavorful Pan-Asian cuisine make this another top pick for Holland American cruisers. The specialty restaurant is available on four ships (for an additional fee) and features dishes from Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and other Asian countries. Appetizers include specialties like crispy duck with a steamed bao bun, shrimp tempura and Chinese five-spice baby back ribs. For the main course, choose from several types of curries, sample Mongolian barbecue lamb chops, or feast on wok-seared shrimp and lobster. Plan to come early to Tamarind Bar to enjoy a cocktail such as a saketini while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Find a  Holland America  cruise on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line

Mark Ashman | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers excellent family-friendly dining options with over-the-top Disney- and movie-themed venues with live character performances and shows. The ships also have upscale adults-only lounges, bars and restaurants that are perfect for a romantic date night. Disney Cruise Line 's unique rotational family dining concept allows guests to experience three different restaurants while having the same dedicated servers every one of those evenings, so the service is personalized throughout your voyage.

Guests on board Disney Wish can dine in the fictional kingdom of Arendelle at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure. The "Frozen"-themed evening includes Nordic-inspired dishes, musical performances by the characters and even singalongs for the audience. On Disney Wonder , guests are treated to a night filled with New Orleans-style jazz and street parties plus Southern-influenced fare at Tiana's Place. You can also meet Princess Tiana from Disney's animated feature "The Princess and the Frog."

Other top dining venues on Disney Cruise Line include:

Palo: This adults-only Venetian-inspired venue is an upscale spot ideal for a quiet evening without the kids (who will be very happy to spend time at the onboard kids club). The fine dining experience features northern Italian cuisine and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views from nearly every perspective. The specialty restaurant also serves brunch on longer cruises. The prix fixe (or "prezzo fisso") menu includes four courses, or you can opt to choose from the regular menu with a selection of appetizers, salads, pizza, pasta and main dishes that are individually priced. Guests will find Palo on Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy.

On Disney Wish, there's an updated version of the dining concept, Palo Steakhouse. The modern steakhouse and Italian restaurant – inspired by Cogsworth, the enchanted clock from "Beauty and the Beast" – offers cuts of Australian wagyu, Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef as well as delightful Italian cuisine and spectacular ocean views. Be sure to splurge on a cocktail at The Rose before dinner if you're dining at Palo Steakhouse. Note that meals at Palo and Palo Steakhouse come with an additional charge.

Remy: The exquisite dining experience at Remy is a collaboration between French chef Arnaud Lallement from l'Assiette Champenoise (a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in France) and Walt Disney World Resort 's chef Scott Hunnel from the renowned restaurant Victoria & Albert's. Your leisurely evening of fine wines and a tasting menu of French fare begins with a signature Taittinger Champagne cocktail prepared tableside.

Special touches in the "Ratatouille"-inspired venue include Frette linens, Christofle silverware, exclusive Bernadaud china made for Remy, Riedel glassware, tableside international cheese service and decanting stations for wines. A Champagne brunch is served on sea days and select port days. There is an additional charge to dine at the restaurant, which is available on Disney Dream and Fantasy.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' creative approach to cruising can be found in nearly every aspect of the line's three ships, including its adults-only vibe and fresh approach to dining. Virgin Voyages does not have a traditional main dining room – and there's no onboard buffet or large dining halls. What you will find is more than 20 eateries with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs that are included in the cruise fare. These smaller and more intimate venues include The Galley, a food court-style spot for casual and grab-and-go fare like bento boxes, tacos, salads, sushi, burgers, noodle bowls and desserts.

Meat lovers and vegetarians will love the veggie-forward dishes and indulgent pork or chicken specialties at boldly designed Razzle Dazzle. At Extra Virgin, sample trattoria-style Italian fare like crispy artichokes, seafood pasta, grilled Mediterranean sea bass and a special tableside preparation of affogato for dessert. For a Korean barbecue experience, head over to Gunbae, a fun spot where your evening begins with a shot of soju – Korea's national drink and the best-selling liquor in the world. The Wake is the largest venue on board and the closest restaurant to a main dining room; it sits at the back of the ship and features a raw bar in addition to a selection of steaks and seafood (some offerings come with an upcharge).

There are many excellent options for dinner, but these are two cruiser-favorite venues:

• The Test Kitchen: Inspired by Auguste Escoffier's "Ma Cuisine," The Test Kitchen is a favorite spot for its laboratory-like eatery and cooking school. The interior decor features metal furniture, beakers and test tubes to get diners in the mood for the exploratory culinary evening. Menus at this innovative venue are presented as a list of ingredients, and guests get to watch the chef combine the selected ingredients of the day for the six-course tasting menu. The upscale experience takes about 2.5 hours. Wine, beer or cocktail pairings come at an additional fee.
• Pink Agave: Virgin's stylish Mexican dining venue, Pink Agave, was inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico City – and the restaurant features what the line calls the most extensive selection of mezcal and tequila at sea. The menu offerings include small, medium and large plates plus desserts. To begin the evening, order a few small bites to share, including esquites (a grilled corn dish) and aguachile, which is a ceviche made with raw tuna, avocado and jicama. Then, for the main course, choose between options like roasted duck or chicken, achiote marinated pork, or a vegetarian stuffed poblano pepper.

Compare  Virgin Voyages  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's selection and quality of restaurant venues – and attentive service – have made the line a favorite for food-focused cruisers for many years. If you're sailing on one of the Celebrity Edge-class ships ( Ascent , Beyond , Apex or Edge ), you'll have up to 32 restaurants to choose from with globally inspired menus created by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher.

You can also look for special culinary cruises and onboard events designed in partnership with renowned Michelin-star French chef Daniel Boulud, the line's global culinary brand ambassador. Some of the onboard programs include wine-blending classes, whiskey and scotch tastings, mixology classes, and food and wine pairing workshops.

With so many complimentary dining and specialty options on Celebrity ships (making it hard to choose where to dine), here are two of the unique experiences not to be missed:

• Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud: Daniel Boulud's first signature restaurant at sea is inspired by the chef's global travels. The interior of the specialty restaurant, designed by the Parisian architect-design team of Jouin Manku, is as much of an experience as the meal with its intimate decor and banquette seating. Guests can choose between a standard dinner menu, a regular five-course tasting menu or a plant-based tasting menu. Le Voyage is available on the new Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond and costs an additional fee.
• Le Petit Chef: The innovative and fantastical 3D dining experience at Le Petit Chef is one of the most unique ways to spend an evening at sea. The immersive meal, which is either served in the quirky Qsine restaurant or Le Grand Bistro, depending on the ship, will delight cruisers of all ages, especially younger children. The tiny, animated chef (think about the size of your hand) entertains guests while preparing each dish. You may see him firing up a grill to sear a steak, picking fresh vegetables from a garden or even going on a fishing adventure in search of lobster. After each dish is prepared by "the chef," waiters will arrive with the actual dish. The 1.5-hour-long experience is an additional cost.

Explore  Celebrity Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Which Ship floats your boat? Carnival Cruise Ships by Age.

E mbarking on a Carnival cruise is like stepping into a world of magnificent floating cities, each with its own unique character and charm. The phrase ‘something for everyone’ truly comes to life aboard these vessels.

In this post, we dive into the spectacular array of ships in the Carnival fleet, showcasing how size really does matter when it comes to choosing your perfect cruise experience.

From the colossal, city-like vessels that offer an endless array of activities and amenities, to the more intimate ships that provide a cozy, personalized journey, Carnival’s diverse fleet has a ship to fit every traveler’s dream.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser seeking the latest and greatest in luxury and entertainment, or a first-time traveler looking for a ship that feels just right, understanding the size and scale of these cruise giants is key to planning your ideal vacation.

Join us as we navigate through the impressive lineup of Carnival cruise ships. We’ll explore the awe-inspiring dimensions and features of each vessel, offering insights into what makes each one unique.

From the bustling decks of the newest additions to the fleet to the classic charm of the smaller, more seasoned ships, get ready to discover the perfect match for your next ocean adventure.

As an avid cruiser myself, and at cruise specialist travel advisor, I have spent countless hours on board, and online learning the ins and outs of each ship. I personally prefer the smaller ships, whereas my husband loves the larger, newer ships. There is definitely something for everyone and the best way to find out what your cruise style is, is taking a cruise!

Carnival Ships by Size

Venezia, luminosa, and jubilee (2023): the pioneers of future cruising.

The Carnival Venezia is a testament to modern maritime engineering, boasting the latest technology and state-of-the-art amenities. This vessel, part of the Vista class, stretches over 1,000 feet and accommodates over 4,000 guests. Its unique features include advanced environmental technologies and cutting-edge entertainment options. Venezia is designed with a blend of luxury and sustainability in mind, making it a leader in eco-friendly cruising. Highlights include spacious staterooms with smart technology, a panoramic oceanview gym, and a variety of dining options that range from casual eats to gourmet meals.

Carnival Luminosa, another 2023 debut, is a beacon of innovation and elegance. As a member of the Spirit class, it offers an intimate yet vibrant cruising experience. The ship’s design focuses on enhancing passenger comfort while providing an array of leisure and entertainment options. From its luxurious spa and wellness center to its interactive gaming and virtual reality zones, Luminosa caters to both relaxation and adventure seekers. The ship also features several specialty restaurants and lounges, each offering a unique culinary journey.

The Carnival Jubilee is set to redefine cruising with its remarkable “zones” of entertainment. Each zone presents a distinct theme and experience, from tranquil retreats to high-energy adventure areas. This Excel-class ship is not just about size but also about the experience, with innovative spaces like an immersive theater and an expansive water park. Jubilee’s dining scene is spearheaded by Emeril’s Bistro 717, adding a touch of celebrity chef excellence to the onboard cuisine.

Celebration (2022) and Mardi Gras (2021): A New Era of Cruise Innovation

Celebration.

The Carnival Celebration, launched in 2022, is a floating marvel of modern cruise design. As a sister ship to the Mardi Gras, it shares many of the same revolutionary features but also introduces its unique flair. The Celebration is renowned for its onboard entertainment, featuring venues like the high-tech theater for immersive shows and the lively Celebration Central for parties and events. The ship’s culinary landscape is equally impressive, boasting a fusion of global cuisines and an array of dining venues that range from casual bites to upscale gastronomy.

As the first in its class, Mardi Gras set a new standard in the cruise industry with its groundbreaking design and amenities. Launched in 2021, this ship is famous for BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience with breathtaking ocean views. Mardi Gras also introduced several new dining concepts, including a street food-inspired eatery and a fine dining experience curated by celebrity chefs. The ship’s six themed zones provide a diverse range of experiences, from the lively French Quarter to the tranquil Retreat.

Modern Marvels: Panorama, Horizon, Vista (2016-2019) – Contemporary Giants of the Sea

Panorama (2019).

The Carnival Panorama, launched in 2019, epitomizes contemporary cruising with its modern design and innovative amenities. This Vista-class ship offers a unique Sky Zone trampoline park, a first for Carnival, providing fun for all ages. The Havana area, with its Cuban-inspired pool and relaxation area, adds a touch of exotic charm. Foodies can indulge in diverse culinary experiences, from the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse to the fresh seafood at the Seafood Shack.

Horizon (2018)

Carnival Horizon, a vessel where contemporary art meets maritime luxury, offers an array of unique attractions. Its IMAX Theater is a standout, providing an immersive cinematic experience at sea. The Dr. Seuss-themed WaterWorks park is a hit with families, while the adults enjoy the serenity of the Cloud 9 Spa. Horizon also introduced Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse|Brewhouse, combining mouthwatering barbecue with craft beers brewed onboard.

Vista (2016)

As the name suggests, Carnival Vista offers breathtaking views and open spaces, redefining the cruise experience. Its innovative SkyRide, a pedal-powered aerial attraction, provides stunning ocean vistas. The ship also features an expanded Havana section with tropical cabins and exclusive pool access. For entertainment, the Multiplex with Thrill Theater and IMAX offers a variety of viewing experiences.

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The Renovated Classics – Blending Tradition with Modernity

Breeze, magic, dream (2009-2012).

The Dream-class ships – Carnival Breeze, Magic, and Dream – have undergone significant renovations to blend classic elegance with contemporary amenities. Post-renovation, these ships now feature popular spots like Guy’s Burger Joint and the Alchemy Bar. The Breeze stands out with its Thrill Theater, an immersive movie experience, while the Magic offers the SportSquare outdoor recreation area.

Splendor, Freedom (2004-2008)

The Splendor and Freedom have been updated to keep pace with modern trends. The Splendor, in particular, is known for its impressive spa facilities, part of the Cloud 9 Spa series. Both ships now feature Carnival’s signature Seaside Theater, offering movies under the stars. The Freedom offers a taste of nostalgia with its 70s-themed Disco and updated dining options like Bonsai Sushi.

Timeless Experiences – Embracing the Charm of the Past

Spirit, legend, pride (2001-2004).

These Spirit-class ships, including Spirit, Legend, and Pride, offer a more intimate and classic cruising experience. They retain their unique charm with features like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat and extensive art collections. The Legend is celebrated for its adventurous itineraries, while the Pride boasts of a sophisticated design and cozy ambiance.

Sunshine, Paradise, Elation (1996-1999)

The Sunshine, Paradise, and Elation, hailing from the late 90s, bring historical significance and nostalgic experiences. The Sunshine, formerly Destiny, was the first in its class and underwent a massive transformation to offer features like the Havana Bar and Serenity Retreat. The Paradise remains unique as the first non-smoking cruise ship, and the Elation charms with its classic design and updated features like the WaterWorks aqua park.

In these sections, the focus is on how Carnival has evolved its fleet, maintaining a fine balance between modern innovation and the classic cruise charm. Each ship, irrespective of its age, offers something unique, ensuring that every cruiser finds a ship that resonates with their style and preferences.

Carnival Ships by Age

Final thoughts on carnival ships.

As we have seen, Carnival Cruise Ships vary in size and age. Whether you are looking for a small starter ship with shorter and weekend itineraries or a newer, larger vessel to explore the world, there is something for everyone on Carnival.

Most of all, cruising with Carnival means that you don’t need to worry about anything – just relax and have fun! If you still don’t know which size ship is best for your style of vacationing and interests, I am here to help. I can answer any questions you may have and give you personalized advice based on your budget and travel plans.

Plus, when you book through me there will be no additional charges involved. So let’s get started planning your perfect cruise today!

Cruise Resources

These are my tried and true, favorite cruise-planning helpers:

➡️ Cruise Critic – for reviews, deck plans, and cabin choices

➡️ Parking – for saving on your long-term parking

➡️ Travel Insurance Master – Because, yes, you do need insurance

➡️ Trip Advisor –

For Reviewing Tours and Excursions

➡️ Viator – For Shore Excursions

➡️ Shore Excursions Group – More choices for small group excursions

➡️ Resort for a day Passes in Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas

➡️ Atlantis Day Pass

➡️Cruise Packing List for Caribbean , Mediterranean or Alaska

➡️ Cruise Tips

➡️Also, if you don’t want the hassle and stress of booking your own cruise, I can do it for you at no additional cost! You can read more about

These products are services I have used myself and trust. Purchasing through the links above, helps me continue my blog at no additional cost to you, and I appreciate it so much!

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Celebrity Cruises ships by age from newest to oldest

Book Your Next Amazing Cruise with Travel Leader, Jeffrey Cleary

There are 16 ships in Celebrity Cruises ’ fleet, with the oldest over 20 years old and the newest launching later this year.

Despite all 16 ships belonging to the same cruise line, they vary greatly in size, amenities, and itineraries. The fleet’s oldest vessels offer a traditional cruising experience, whereas the newest ships feature record-breaking design and innovative features.

If you’re planning a Celebrity cruise, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the ships in Celebrity’s fleet to help pick the best choice for your vacation. Whether you’re looking for a small or big ship experience, you’re sure to find a ship to fit your travel style best.

Here’s our list of Celebrity ships by age from newest to oldest.

Celebrity Ascent (launching in 2023)

• Inaugural sailing : November 2023
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 3,260
• Gross tonnage : 141,420

When Celebrity Ascent launches later this year, she will be the fourth ship in the cruise line’s revolutionary Edge Class.

For those cruisers who enjoy sailing on new ships, it will be hard to beat sailing on Celebrity Ascent. As a brand new vessel, guests can enjoy Celebrity’s newest dining venues, entertainment concepts, and modern cabin amenities.

Celebrity Ascent will spend winters in the Caribbean and summers sailing the Mediterranean.

Related : Celebrity Cruises released details about its biggest ship yet: Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity Beyond

• Inaugural sailing : April 2022

Celebrity Beyond is the newest ship in operation by Celebrity Cruises, and like her sister ships in the Edge Class, she is one of the cruise line’s most popular vessels.

One of the goals of the Edge Class was to connect passengers more closely with the sea, and Celebrity achieved this through Celebrity Beyond’s outward facing design. One of the ways passengers can experience this design is in Eden, an entertainment venue with three stories of ocean views.

Outside of ocean views, Celebrity Beyond features 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges, which include favorites such as the Sunset Bar and Eden Café.

Celebrity Beyond is currently in Europe but she will soon reposition to the Caribbean. She will offer select itineraries to Perfect Day at CocoCay along with visits to the Southern, Eastern, and Western Caribbean.

Celebrity Apex

• Inaugural sailing : June 2021
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,910
• Gross tonnage : 130,818

The second ship in Celebrity’s Edge Class, Celebrity Apex is another modern, elegantly-designed vessel in the fleet.

If you’re looking for a modern cabin concept on Edge Class ships, consider booking an infinite veranda cabin. These cabins feature a balcony that is inside your living space rather than through a separate door, which increases living space in the room.

Celebrity Apex splits her time between Europe and the Caribbean, offering cruises to destinations such as the United Kingdom, Egypt, St. Thomas, Puerto Plata, and Cozumel.

Related : 20 Celebrity Cruises Tips & Tricks

Celebrity Flora

• Inaugural sailing : June 2019
• Passenger capacity : 100
• Gross tonnage : 5,922

Celebrity Flora is the newest of Celebrity’s expedition ships, and she offers year round cruises in the Galapagos.

Celebrity Flora is an all-suite vessel, meaning all accommodations are spacious suites, and the rooms are fully automotive, allowing you to control the room’s features with the touch of a button.

Booking a cruise on Celebrity Flora is all-inclusive and includes airport transfers, luxury accommodation, fully-escorted tours, all meals and beverages, luggage service, Galapagos National Park entrance fee, and more.

Visiting the Galapagos with Celebrity is an immersive experience different from a traditional cruise vacation. Throughout the cruise, you will visit new islands nearly every day, allowing you to learn more about the region’s fascinating flora and fauna.

Celebrity Edge

• Inaugural sailing : December 2018
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,918

Perhaps the most monumental moment in the history of Celebrity Cruises was the launch of Celebrity Edge.

Up until 2018, Celebrity built traditional-style cruise ships, and while they had several inventive features like The Lawn Club and a glassblowing workshop, the design of the ships was lacking in innovation compared to new ships by cruise lines like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian.

Related : I just spent 11 days on Celebrity Edge — did it live up to the hype?

Celebrity Edge changed that with the addition of several impressive new features, the most notable being the Magic Carpet. The Magic Carpet is a cantilevered bar that “floats” up and down the edge of the ship, and it’s a must-do experience on Celebrity Edge.

Celebrity Edge sails around the world. She is currently in Europe, but will sail from Australia for several months before offering Alaska cruises in the summer of 2024. Following her season in Alaska, she will return to Australia to offer cruises to the Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.

Celebrity Xploration

• Inaugural sailing : March 2017
• Passenger capacity : 16
• Gross tonnage : 320

Celebrity Xploration has a capacity of only 16 guests, over three thousand fewer than ships like Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond.

Built for the Galapagos, Celebrity Xploration is more like a yacht than a cruise ship. As the ship sails from island to island in the Galapagos, passengers can get to know fellow passengers and crew much more intimately than on a large vessel.

In addition, the ship’s extremely small capacity means there is little wait for any part of the experience, from embarkation in the Galapagos to getting on and off the ship in port.

Cruising on Celebrity Xploration includes your own stateroom with a window or balcony, room service, complimentary snorkeling equipment, and lectures from Galapagos experts.

Celebrity Reflection

• Inaugural sailing : October 2012
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 3,046
• Gross tonnage : 125,366

Celebrity Silhouette is the last ship in Celebrity’s Solstice Class. In comparison to Celebrity’s oldest class of ships, the Millennium Class, Solstice Class ships are 30% larger.

Due to the larger size, Solstice Class cruise ships offer a wider range of restaurants, lounges, and amenities.

One of the most popular areas on Solstice Class ships is The Lawn Club, a hangout space on a ½ acre lawn of real grass. At The Lawn Club passengers can enjoy live music, play games like bocce and croquet, and dine at The Lawn Club Grill.

Celebrity Reflection is currently in Europe, but after returning to North America she will offer Caribbean cruises year round. Starting in 2024, she will begin offering cruises to Royal Caribbean’s private destination of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Celebrity Silhouette

• Inaugural sailing : June 2011
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,902
• Gross tonnage : 122,210

Celebrity Silhouette offers both short and long itineraries from Florida, allowing passengers to enjoy her amenities whether on a quick 4-night cruise to Mexico or 10-night trip to the Southern Caribbean.

Like her sister ships, Celebrity Silhouette offers a mix between small and large ship cruising, offering a middle ground between a traditional and modern cruise experience.

Celebrity Silhouette spends the summer season in Europe before returning to North America to offer Caribbean cruises throughout the winter.

Related : How does a cheap Celebrity cruise compare to Royal Caribbean?

Celebrity Eclipse

• Inaugural sailing : April 2010
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,852
• Gross tonnage : 121,878

Celebrity Eclipse is the third Solstice Class ship. Like other Solstice Class ships, Celebrity Eclipse offers a wide variety of sailings around the world.

She currently sails to Alaska, but will reposition to South America in fall 2023 to offer cruises in the region, visiting destinations such as Chile, Antarctica, and Argentina.

Celebrity Equinox

• Inaugural sailing : August 2009

Celebrity Equinox is the second Solstice Class cruise ship, and she sails around the world, offering some of Celebrity’s most unique itineraries.

The size of Solstice Class ships enables them to fit into many interesting ports around the world. Indoor spaces, such as the Persian Garden thermal suite and European-style Café al Bacio, mean you can enjoy the ship’s amenities rain or shine.

Celebrity Equinox currently sails to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean. She will reposition to Europe for the 2024 summer season before heading to South America in December 2024 to offer Patagonia and Antarctica itineraries.

Related : Things you won’t find on a Celebrity cruise

Celebrity Solstice

• Inaugural sailing : November 2008

Celebrity Solstice is the first of Celebrity’s Solstice class. Like other Solstice Class ships, guests will enjoy features like The Lawn Club, glassblowing workshop, indoor pool, and the Craft Social Bar. 

Celebrity Solstice spends her time in the Pacific, offering cruises to Alaska, Australia, and Southeast Asia.

Celebrity Constellation

• Inaugural sailing : May 2002
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,184
• Gross tonnage : 90,940

Celebrity Constellation is the last of the Millennium Class cruise ships, the first class of Celebrity ships. With only a little over 2,000 passengers onboard, the ships offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than those in the Edge or even the Solstice Class.

Classic features of Millennium Class ships include an outdoor rooftop terrace, the Cellar Masters wine bar, and indoor adults-only Solarium.

Celebrity Constellation spends the summer season in Europe and winter season in the Caribbean.

Related : Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club loyalty program info, tips & secrets

Celebrity Summit

• Inaugural sailing : October 2001
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,218
• Gross tonnage : 91,003

Celebrity Summit is the third Millennium Class ship, and she was revolutionized in 2019 to add upgraded features and amenities to the 20+ year old vessel.

Although Millennium Class ships do not offer the latest and greatest of Celebrity’s activities—you won’t find venues like Eden or the Magic Carpet bar onboard—there are still plenty of ways to keep busy on the ship.

Guests will love watching outdoor movies on the ship’s rooftop terrace, sipping cocktails at the Martini Bar, and watching the stars from the indoor Sky Observation Lounge.

Celebrity Summit currently sails from the northeast US, offering cruises to Bermuda and Canada. She will sail to the Caribbean in the winter season before repositioning to offer Alaska cruises in summer 2024.

Celebrity Infinity

• Inaugural sailing : March 2001
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy) : 2,170

Celebrity Infinity is one of the smallest cruise ships in Celebrity’s fleet, but her small size means that she offers a more intimate and traditional cruising experience.

Onboard you’ll find immersive dining concepts like Le Petit Chef, in which a tiny, animated chef is projected onto your table. During the meal the chef “cooks” each course of your meal before the animated meal is replaced with the real life dish.

Related : Celebrity’s Le Petit Chef Review — Worth it or Gimmicky?

The ship has three pools: two outdoor pools and one in the indoor Solarium. Additionally, suite guests can enjoy an outdoor sundeck at The Retreat.

Celebrity Infinity stays in Europe year round, offering cruises to the Greek Isles, Turkey, Egypt, the Adriatic, the Mediterranean, and the Canary Islands.

Celebrity Xpedition

• Inaugural sailing : February 2001
• Passenger capacity : 48
• Gross tonnage : 2,842

Celebrity Xpedition is the oldest ship of Celebrity’s expedition vessels, and she offers year round sailings to the Galapagos.

With only 48 passengers at maximum capacity, the Xpedition offers personalized luxury service. While onboard you can enjoy in-suite dining, nightly lectures by certified naturalists, and live music.

Like all cruises to the Galapagos, the focus of the experience is more on the destination rather than the ship. You won’t find Broadway-style production shows or an abundance of programming offered onboard, but it will get you up close and personal with the nature and scenery of the Galapagos.

Celebrity Millennium

• Inaugural sailing : June 2000
• Gross tonnage : 91,011

Celebrity Millennium is the oldest ship in Celebrity’s fleet, but that doesn’t mean she is outdated.

Celebrity Millennium was revolutionized in 2019, during which new amenities and staterooms were added to the ship. The Retreat, an all new suites-only area, was added, which includes The Retreat Sundeck and The Retreat Lounge.

In addition, restaurants, the spa, and cabins were reimagined, adding upgraded technology and design concepts to these spaces.

Celebrity Millennium currently offers cruises to Alaska. In fall 2023 she will reposition to Asia, where she will begin offering cruises to Japan, Southeast Asia, and India.

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I spent $2800 for 7 nights in a 157-square-foot room on the world's largest cruise ship. Take a look inside my tiny cabin

9 easy ways to save money on a European cruise

Jeffrey Cleary is an experienced travel advisor and cruise specialist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Caribbean and World cruises. With over a decade of experience in the travel industry, Jeffrey has developed a reputation as a trusted advisor for those seeking unforgettable Caribbean and/or World cruise experiences. "I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in the cruise industry, along with real-world experience on many of the finest ships at sea. I love cruising myself, so I am often sailing (and reachable by clients) and experiencing the cruise lines first hand. I'll get to know you, your style, your ideal vacation and recommend an Amazing Cruise experience."