After taking a cruise on Celebrity Xcel, I found dozens of things that make this ship special. It’s become one of my favorite large cruise ships, with a variety of outstanding dining options and awesome venues that make it ideal for a relaxing vacation. (Photo by John Roberts)
Celebrity Xcel is the latest in the Edge Class for Celebrity Cruises. And as the fifth ship in this series, the line made a few new choices for restaurants, entertainment and how it utilizes the innovative onboard spaces that make this my favorite class among the mega cruise ships.
Celebrity Cruises is my favorite mainstream line because of the attractive mix of great dining, fun entertainment and low-key modern luxury vibe that permeates life onboard.
With the first four ships in the Edge Series (Edge, Apex, Beyond and Ascent), you get innovative venues such as the Rooftop Garden, spacious Solarium, inviting pool deck, the Grand Plaza and Eden, a multi-deck, glass enclosed complex used as a bar, restaurant and venue for lively entertainment.
On Celebrity Xcel, you have new attractions, including The Bazaar, which is a reimagining of the same type of architectural space seen on the other four ships in the Edge Class.
The Bazaar is a fantastic new idea and just one of 20 things that cruisers will love about cruising on Celebrity Xcel. Here’s what I discovered when I took my first cruise on this exciting ship during the annual president’s cruise in the Mediterranean.
1. OceanView Cafe
Oceanview Café on Celebrity Xcel offers an elevated take on the classic cruise buffet. It’s a marketplace-style venue on Deck 14 that features stunning two-story, floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and deliver panoramic ocean views while you enjoy your meals. There are a dizzying array of delicious options here for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The layout utilizes a series of themed stations and minimizes lines and crowding, even at peak times, with popular items repeated throughout.
Enjoy live-action cooking, including Asian stir-fry, made-to-order pasta or eggs, a bakery of fresh breads and pastries, shellfish towers, an impressive cheese bar, salad stations, gluten-free and vegetarian options, and globally inspired dishes that change daily — think build-your-own sushi bowls, Indian specialties, and regional destination flavors.
Indoor and outdoor seating options, excellent food quality that rivals specialty venues for many, and availability from breakfast through dinner (plus late-night bites) make it a flexible, high-value favorite for relaxed meals with variety and views.
2. Thermal Suite
I always enjoy spending some time in the spa when on a cruise vacation, whether getting a massage or two or booking a day pass for the thermal suite if a ship offers one of these relaxation facilities. Cruisers will enjoy the SEA Thermal Suite in The Spa on Celebrity Xcel because its an elevated, multi-sensory oasis with a variety of experiences. We wanted to just book for a day, so we went in to book a time two days into our sailing. It seems like you can get a good deal when you do this. The day pass was going to be more expensive than the price they offered us for a pass to use the suite every day through the end of our 10-day voyage. We paid $129. So always ask what the prices are for either type of pass to evaluate what is the best deal for you.
The adults-only SEA Thermal Suite is a haven that features eight therapeutic experiences that blend water, air, and earth elements into a full sensory reset.
The Hydra Room is a new experience among Celebrity ships and it offers a warm, bubbling hydrotherapy pool with massaging jets and heated loungers designed to melt away muscle tension. The water wasn’t warm enough in there, though, for my tastes.
Step outside to the Vitamin D Deck, a sun terrace with stylish daybeds, sweeping ocean views, and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy while relaxing in the sea air.
Classic favorites like the Hammam (modern Turkish bath), salt room for deep breathing, aromatic steam room, infrared sauna, rainfall therapy showers and heated tile loungers with ocean vistas complete the circuit. The suite is part of Celebrity’s largest spa in the fleet.
3. Rooftop Garden
The Rooftop Garden is a flexible space, used for cocktail hours, movies, music and even a pickleball court. (Photo by John Roberts)
Cruisers will adore the Rooftop Garden on Celebrity Xcel, a a sprawling open-air oasis on Deck 15 that elevates a space that has proved to be an classic Edge-class favorite. Surrounded by living plants and greenery, this expanded area offers cozy lounge seating with options for sun or shade, plus two new edge-perched plunge pools perfect for a refreshing dip while gazing at the horizon.
By day, relax with a book or challenge friends on the pickleball court (check out our guide to all the cruise ships that offer pickleball) amid the botanical backdrop.
During the evening, cruisers gather here to watch movies under the stars on the large LED screen. Also, live music fills the air, and people sip craft cocktails. Anchoring the garden is Bora, the new Mediterranean al fresco restaurant which serves up both lively brunches with a customizable Bloody Mary bar and romantic dinners featuring seafood, tableside preparations, and coastal flavors.
With panoramic ocean views, ambient lighting, and versatile vibes from serene retreat to lively gathering spot, the Rooftop Garden delivers an unforgettable blend of nature, relaxation and entertainment.
4. Sunset Bar
The Sunset Bar at the aft of the ship is a fantastic spot to relax and take in the sunshine and an especially nice spot to come for, as you might guess, the sunsets. (Photo by John Roberts)
This bar is an expanded multi-level outdoor retreat perched aft on Deck 15. Designed by Nate Berkus with elegant Moroccan-inspired touches, this chic beach-club oasis delivers unmatched 270-degree views of the ship’s wake and endless ocean horizon.
You can pick from plush lounge chairs, daybeds or step-down seating as the sky ignites in pinks, oranges, and reds during the sunsets in the Caribbean or Mediterranean.
This is the spot for pre-dinner drinks, as the menu features a variety of signature cocktails or a perfectly dry martini while live acoustic pop and folk music create a serene, sophisticated vibe.
The larger footprint of this space on Xcel means more room to chill out without feeling crowded, making it ideal for quiet reflection by day or romantic sundowners before dinner at nearby Bora.
With its breezy al fresco setting, attentive service, and that magical golden-hour atmosphere, the Sunset Bar quickly becomes a daily ritual.
5. Bora
Bora is an incredible dining experience, offering attentive service, delicious Mediterranean dishes and a romantic setting on warm evenings. (Photo by John Roberts)
Celebrity Xcel’s exclusive Mediterranean al fresco restaurant is nestled in the Rooftop Garden on Deck 15. This specialty venue transforms throughout the day, offering a lively daytime brunch and an intimate romantic dinner under the stars, all with panoramic ocean views and live music.
As a specialty restaurant, Bora carries a cover charge of approximately $35 per person for brunch (including a bottomless build-your-own Bloody Mary bar with over-the-top garnishes) and around $65 per person for dinner (often with unlimited Spritzes). Celebrity uses dynamic pricing, so the cost varies based on your particular sailing.
Brunch highlights include shakshuka eggs with avocado and sourdough toast, croissant eggs Benedict with lemon-scented salmon gravlax and ricotta, orange-zest French toast with figs and pistachios and tasty favorites like wild mushroom toast or lobster medallions.
Dinner focuses on seafood. Select dishes like seared branzino with garlic aioli, lamb tagine with saffron couscous and fideos negros with razor clams and carabinero prawns. Cruisers will love the chef-led tableside preparations on some of the items.
With its relaxed yet elevated coastal vibe, shareable menus designed for connection and the perfect blend of scenery, music and cuisine, Bora stands out as one of Xcel’s top eateries. Colleen had a wonderful dinner with delicious meals and excellent service during our week onboard.
6. Craft Social
Craft Social occupies a small space and fills up quickly, especially when there is a big game on the TVs. WE love coming here for sports, craft beers and bar bites. (Photo by John Roberts)
This is the spot for sports lovers to come watch a game. However, seats fill up quickly in this smallish venue, when it’s showing highly anticipated games from the English Premier League or the NFL.
Craft Social features an elevated pub vibe that delivers casual sophistication without the formality. Located on Deck 4 near the Grand Plaza, this cozy spot offers more than 40 craft beers, creative cocktails, wines by the glass or bottle and satisfying gourmet comfort food and bar bites (for a fee) — think elevated American pub fare like burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and hearty snacks perfect for making a full meal. Colleen and I shared a bunch of tasty items as a dinner one night while watching an NFL game.
The warm, inviting atmosphere with plush seating and communal tables creates a relaxed social hub ideal for unwinding.
Excellent cocktails, laid-back music, and a consistently busy-yet-comfortable energy keep it lively from late afternoon into the evening, making it a favorite for both casual drinks and quality bites amid the ship’s modern luxury. It’s the perfect retreat for craft beer enthusiasts and sports fans seeking a lively spot to hang out.
7. The Club
The Club is a large multipurpose space, used for lively shows, trivia and dancing. (Photo by John Roberts)
This is a versatile, two-story entertainment hub that offers cruisers plenty of ways to spend their time having fun all day and night. The main space hosts lively trivia contests, interactive games like Game On, and exciting events, plus new shows, such as the 1980s-inspired “254 West” (with after-party) and the comedic “HOTEL” whodunit. It also is the place for dance parties, including the popular Saddle Up Saloon country nights and the always-packed ABBA Night, making it a social centerpiece for connection and fun.
The Attic at The Club on Celebrity Xcel offers dozens of free games and sports on TV to enjoy. (Photo by John Roberts)
Upstairs, The Attic at The Club elevates the experience with a neon-lit, 24/7 retro gaming lounge designed for adults (open to all). Enjoy free-to-play games like Pac-Man, NBA Showtime and Golden Tee, plus pool, darts, foosball and shuffleboard. A private golf suite/simulator and karaoke space can be reserved for group play or celebrations, perfect for friendly competition or private parties.
Together, these areas deliver endless nostalgic thrills, interactive entertainment and lively social vibes.
8. The Bazaar
The Bazaar is a massive entertainment and dining space at the aft of the ship. The complex changes looks and themes throughout the day and throughout the cruise. (Photo by John Roberts)
This large and innovative space located at the aft of the ship offers an immersive, ever-changing celebration of destinations. The Bazaar is a vibrant three-story space that transforms daily with rotating festivals bringing the tastes and feel of the regional culture, music, dance and traditions onboard.
The Market at The Bazaar showcases artisan products from ports of call, with hands-on crafts like jewelry-making, basket weaving or decorating souvenirs.
Cruisers enjoy regional foods and drinks at venues like Mosaic (open-kitchen dining) and Spice, plus pop-up performances, live music, cooking classes and dance lessons every half hour. Stunning LED archways and décor amplify the sensory experience, making every visit to the space feel unique.
Whether shopping for one-of-a-kind finds, tasting regional flavors, or joining lively celebrations, The Bazaar delivers endless ways to connect to the places Celebrity Xcel visits.
9. Mosaic
This restaurant is located inside The Bazaar is a destination-inspired fine dining experience that showcases the flavors of the ports.
This specialty eatery ($100 fee) features an open kitchen where chefs craft creative dishes like Caribbean-inspired jerk pork dumplings, filet mignon with spicy mole sauce, Jamaican milk bread and bacalao croquetas, or European-influenced specialties depending on the itinerary. The artistic presentations and high-quality ingredients create a memorable culinary journey, with standouts like mango soufflé for dessert. Cruisers also can opt for the premium Chef’s Table experience for a multi-course tasting.
The restaurant offers a lush space with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Mosaic offers a sophisticated experience beyond standard specialty dining.
10. Fine Cut
The Fine Cut steakhouse is always one of our favorite spots for a great meal. The location on Celebroty Xcel puts you right near the vibrant Grand Plaza. (Photo by John Roberts)
This is the outstanding steakhouse on Celebrity Xcel. We loved our dinner here, where we enjoyed the classic American steakhouse experience. The menu features premium cuts of meat and fresh seafood in an elegant setting. The decor is built around warm ruby, amber and gold tones with seating areas that allow a views of either the ocean or the Grand Plaza.
The cover charge typically ranges from about $55 to $65 per person for dinner (prices vary by sailing), covering appetizers, an entrée, dessert and sides. Select premium dry-aged cuts of steak come at an additional charge.
Standout menu items include the signature crab cake with lemon pepper aioli, lobster cocktail, filet mignon, boneless ribeye, dry-aged New York strip and options like grass-fed lamb chops or pan-roasted lobster tail.
It’s great to get a range of sides to share, such as black pepper bacon, gruyere tater tots, parmesan truffle fries, smoked bacon mac and cheese and grilled asparagus,
There also is a variety of decadent desserts like salted caramel cheesecake or chocolate brownie.
11. Raw on 5
Raw on 5 is a favorite for Celebrity Cruisers, and the space on Xcel offers wonderful ocean views. (Photo by John Roberts)
This restaurant is one of our favorites, and we always make sure to have a meal or two at Raw on 5 when were on any Celebrity ship. On Celebrity Xcel, this eatery offers fresh, high-quality seafood and sushi experience in a stylish setting overlooking the Grand Plaza. It operates primarily on an à la carte basis (with a 20 percent service charge added), allowing flexibility to order as much or as little as desired — individual items typically range from about $5 to $20, while elaborate seafood towers can reach $70 to $90. A prix-fixe four-course option is sometimes available around $40 per person.
Menu highlights include oysters, assorted sashimi and nigiri, creative rolls, the Imperial Tower (lobster, king crab, shrimp, and more), hot options such as lobster and shrimp wontons, spicy shrimp stir fry, or pork belly skewers, plus lighter crudos like hamachi. Desserts such as yuzu strawberry shortcake provide a sweet end to a satisfying meal.
Raw on 5 also is open for lunch.
12. Tuscan Restaurant
This is one of the four included main restaurants on Celebrity Xcel — alongside Normandie (French dishes), Cosmopolitan (global menu) and Cyprus (Greek cuisine). I am highlighting Tuscan, though, for fellow lovers of Italian food.
Cruisers will enjoy Tuscan because it delivers a nice variety of traditional Italian flavors without an extra charge. The restaurant features a modern classical design inspired by Italian fashion and film, creating a warm, welcoming ambiance perfect for a romantic dinner.
The menu highlights homemade pastas prepared with rustic flair and southern Italian dishes, such as creamy pappardelle, herb-roasted pork chops and hearty options like pappardelle with wild boar ragu.
Desserts include creative treats like panna cotta with fig compote for a sweet, elegant end to the meal.
With flexible Anytime Dining options and attentive service, Tuscan offers a high-quality, approachable taste of Italy at sea — ideal for pasta lovers seeking familiar, flavorful meals in a stylish setting that feels elevated yet relaxed.
13. The Grand Plaza
The Grand Plaza is the dramatic atrium and entertainment hub on the ship, snchored by the lively Martini Bar. (Photo by John Roberts)
This is the vibrant, three-story heart of the ship — an eye-catching social hub that brings cruisers together day and night. Anchored by a spectacular LED chandelier and the iconic Martini Bar, this open atrium buzzes with energy, live music, a dance floor and activities like the popular silent disco.
This is also the spot for daily trivia contests.
At the Martini Bar, skilled flair bartenders dazzle patrons with creative cocktails while performing bottle-flipping, juggling and multi-drink pouring shows, often synchronized with a mesmerizing chandelier light display that lights up the space. Sip handcrafted martinis in a refined silver-and-white setting while people-watching or connecting with fellow travelers. Surrounding venues like Café al Bacio, Craft Social, Fine Cut and Raw on 5 make it easy to grab a bite or drink nearby.
Whether enjoying pre-dinner drinks, evening entertainment, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, the Grand Plaza delivers unforgettable moments of connection and spectacle at sea.
14. Pool Club
The Pool Club offers a swimming pool, whirlpools, bars, eatery and cabanas for rent at the heart of the action on sunny days. (Photo by John Roberts)
The Celebrity Pool Club on Xcel offers a distinctive elevated, resort vibe that stands out when compared with typical large cruise ship lido decks. I love the contemporary rooftop design, plush loungers and attentive pool staff who can bring you chilled towels, sunscreen and even card games while you relax in the sunshine. There are plenty of shaded areas, too. On the final sea day of Caribbean itineraries, the space transforms into the lively “Poolest Day Ever” with island music, DJs, games, pop-up shows and exclusive drinks. It then shifts into the “Shine the Night” evening party with elevated bites and cocktails under the stars.
Nearby, you can rent the private VIP cabanas to get an exclusive space to chill out with dedicated service for ultimate relaxation and privacy amid the action. Book early to reserve a space or check onboard through the Celebrity Cruises app or by checking with Guest Services. They sell out quickly on sea days.
Pricing is similar to other Edge-class ships (often $200 to $500 per day depending on size and sailing), with perks like attendant service included.
15. Jogging Track
The jogging track loops around two outer decks on the ship, and the route measures five laps per mile. (Photo by John Roberts)
Runners and walkers love the outdoor dedicated track on the Edge Class ships. Celebrity Xcel offers a beautiful place to run, with the innovative design of a twisting multi-level loop around Decks 15 and 16. This dedicated route delivers changing elevations and sweeping ocean views as you also get refreshing sea breezes. Distance markers make it easy to track progress — typically five laps equal one mile — helping fitness-minded cruisers stick to their regimens while winding their way through the attractive setting.
The track sits near the Fitness Center, Rooftop Garden and other top-deck amenities, so it’s convenient to combine with workouts, sunrise sessions or sunset strolls.
Whether logging miles or simply enjoying a daily sunrise or sunset stroll with fresh air and panoramic seascapes, the track provides an elevated, practical way to stay active at sea.
16. The Retreat
The Retreat features a dedicated pool deck, so cruisers can find a bit of serenity in this quiet space. (Photo by John Roberts)
Celebrity Xcel offers one of the finest ship-within-a-ship experiences. The Retreat delivers a private exclusive complex with expansive suites and elevated amenities and service.
The multi-level Sundeck (Decks 16/17) features a dedicated pool, hot tubs, plush loungers, shaded cabanas and attendants who deliver towels, drinks and snacks — creating a serene, resort-style oasis with panoramic ocean views.
The Retreat is blissful in that it is so serene and feels miles away from the main decks of the ship. The 24/7 Retreat Lounge offers a stylish indoor haven with complimentary beverages, gourmet bites and concierge support.
The area also offers the Luminae restaurant, which is only for cruisers staying in The Retreat. This eatery provides refined menus, including signature dishes by global culinary ambassador Daniel Boulud. Combined with dedicated butler service, premium drinks, wifi and priority embarkation, The Retreat transforms a Celebrity cruise into a personalized luxury escape that allows you to enjoy complete comfort and relaxation.
17. Le Grand Bistro for Lunch
Le Grand Bistro features a menu of French favorites and is open for lunch and breakfast. (Photo by John Roberts)
Le Grand Bistro is Celebrity’s French restaurant, and it’s a delicious dining experience, especially for a hearty lunch.
This eatery features a classic Parisian bistro vibe, with a menu filled with French favorites, all served up in a charming setting. Located on Deck 4, the bistro features elegant design with brass, glazed brick, aged plaster, and sidewalk-style tables that evoke a classic French café, complete with ocean views.
A cover charge (typically $25 to $50 per person) grants access to a full menu of classics like Croque Madame, moules-frites, French onion soup, steak frites, daily specials and outstanding fresh-baked breads and pastries.
This is high-quality food with generous portions. I love it as a quieter, more refined alternative to the buffet. You get fantastic service here, too.
18. Destination Gateway
Destination Gateway is the seamless gangway and launch area for tender operations on Celebrity Xcel. (Photo by John Roberts)
Talk about a smooth way to get onto and off of a large cruise ship!
Destination Gateway on Celebrity Xcel transforms tender port days (when you have to take a small boat to shore for your excursion activities) into a relatively enjoyable experience instead of a frustrating, time-consuming exercise.
Located on Deck 2, this modern multi-purpose space features comfortable seating for about 130 cruisers, air conditioning and large LCD screens that highlight the destination with port info and enrichment details — making the wait feel informative.
The space is fully integrated with the Magic Carpet, the Edge Class’s iconic orange-colored cantilevered platform that moves vertically along the starboard side. When the Magic Carpet lowers to Deck 2, it becomes an extension of Destination Gateway, creating a seamless, spacious embarkation platform for the spacious and comfortable tenders. You step directly onto the floating platform for efficient transfers ashore.
19. Spice
Spice is a delightful casual eatery within the Bazaar complex on Celebrity Xcel. (Photo by John Roberts)
This is a casual eatery inside The Bazaar. It’s a great pick because of a menu that offers fresh, destination-inspired flavors that change with the itinerary and festivals. This creative cafe brings a nice variety of tastes for casual breakfasts and lunches.
Located on Deck 5 with scenic sea and port views, this complimentary venue (included in your cruise fare) offers grab-and-go foods, or you can build-your-own healthy bowls perfect for quick, wellness-forward meals.
It’s open for breakfast and lunch (with afternoon snacks on some sea days). Expect rotating options like customizable bowls with fresh ingredients and proteins, smoothies, a carving station, featured dishes such as barbacoa chipotle Benedict, quesadillas, arepas, jerk salmon or churrasco steak, plus pastries and desserts including rum cake, pineapple upside-down cake, or dulce de leche treats.
A coffee bar serves specialty espresso drinks, juices and smoothies for a charge.
20. Cafe al Bacio
Cafe al Bacio is a wonderful spot to get a coffee and snacks throughout the day, with comfy seating to relax among your fellow cruisers. (Photo by John Roberts)
This beloved coffee shop that has been a favorite venue for us on every Celebrity ship. We don’t even drink coffee. But you can get waters, sodas and other drinks here, as well as great light bites and sweet treats.
Cafe al Bacio on Celebrity Xcel offers an inviting European café atmosphere and perfect blend of premium coffee, free treats, and prime people-watching.
Located on Deck 4 overlooking the lively Grand Plaza, this stylish spot features muted tones and comfortable seating ideal for starting the day, afternoon breaks or late-night indulgences.
Cruisers line up early to get their high-quality Lavazza espresso drinks — from classic cappuccinos and lattes to specialty creations — alongside a wide selection of gourmet Tea Forté teas.
You can’t walk by the counter without being drawn to order some of the French pastries, cookies, cakes, sandwiches and elegant desserts, which are complimentary throughout the day. Specialty beverages carry an extra charge (often covered by drink packages), but the free sweets make it a go-to destination.
21. IYKYK
This photo booth is a fun way to collect some precious memories during your Celebrity Xcel cruise. (Photo by John Roberts)
Wander into The Club on Celebrity Xcel and you just might stumble onto a playful, hush-hush hideaway that feels like the ship’s best-kept secret. This is the kind of place where “if you know, you know” truly applies, and half the thrill is the discovery itself.
Once inside, you’re swept into a golden-glow atmosphere steeped in Roaring Twenties glamour, complete with craft cocktails that nod to Prohibition days, live performers who keep the energy high, and a strict no-phones rule that lets everyone fully soak in the moment.
It’s intimate, theatrical, and delightfully fleeting — an hour of pure escapism before the “authorities” playfully send you on your way. No spoilers here, of course; the real magic is stumbling upon it yourself and becoming one of the in-the-know few. For those who love a clever twist and unforgettable nights, IYKYK is the ultimate conversation starter and memory-maker on Celebrity Xcel.
One Thing I Didn’t Like on Celebrity Xcel
Celebrity Xcel features a well-equipped, if too small, gym. (Photo by John Roberts)
I use the gym on a cruise ship every day during my trips, so it’s an important space for me. I think many other cruisers these days feel this way, too.
The fitness center on Celebrity Xcel has all the equipment you could need for any kind of workout, with a great mix of cardio machines and dumbbells, machines and other equipment for resistance exercises, too.
However, the space is much too small for a ship that carries more than 3,300 cruisers. The spaces are crowded throughout much of the day, with peak times all morning and late afternoon. Sea days are really bad. Plus, you will see performers from the shows in there sharing the equipment, too, to keep up on their fitness routines for the dancing, etc., required in their roles on board.
I was particularly frustrated that the spacious studios are not allowed to be used for self-directed stretching sessions or other workouts that don’t require machines. I went in to a studio and was told by a staffer that it’s only for classes, even during times when there are no classes. There is perfectly good equipment like foam rollers and mats that can’t be used, and I regularly saw staff in there looking at their phones, using it as a kind of break room.
Meanwhile, people looking for a place to stretch or do some follow along workouts on their phones had to sprawl out all over the floor areas in the middle of the gym.
This seems like a problem that could be easily fixed in an already-small gym.
Going on Celebrity Xcel soon? There’s plenty to enjoy. This has become of our favorite cruise ships. I hope you have a wonderful time onboard!