Celebrity Cruises to launch Europe...

Ships will offer destination-rich itineraries and locally inspired cuisine

Celebrity Cruises will launch river cruises in 2027, with bookings opening this year.

Called Celebrity River Cruises, the premium brand has signed an order for 10 river ships, which will sail on rivers around the world, starting with Europe.

The move comes as demand for river cruising is surging, with predictions the industry will nearly triple its economic footprint in the next decade, surpassing US$7.3 billion by 2034, according to a report by Future Market Insights.

Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Celebrity’s parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, notes that around half of the guests across its three ocean cruise brands have been on or intend to take a river cruise. The group plans to leverage its loyalty programmes across all three brands to keep guests within its ecosystem.

“Our guests and travel partners should expect us to do what we do best – innovate and elevate the river cruise experience as we meet the growing demand for intimate, culturally enriching travel experiences," Liberty said in a statement.

The river ships will draw inspiration from the look, feel and experience of Celebrity’s award-winning Edge Series ocean vessels. All will offer 360-degree views and each will carry about 180 passengers.

The company said passengers will visit “culturally and historically significant cities” and experience locally inspired cuisine and unique shore experiences.

Laura Hodges Bethge, President at Celebrity Cruises, said: "We've redefined travel on the ocean with our best-in-class hospitality, award-winning food and beverage experiences, and elevated design and style. We are thrilled to bring these experiences to the river and combine them with authentic, destination-rich itineraries that will give our guests an experience unlike any other."

Bookings for the inaugural European sailings with Celebrity River Cruises will open in 2025.

An industry pioneer for more than 35 years, Celebrity currently travels to nearly 300 destinations across more than 70 countries spanning all seven continents.

Earlier this month, Celebrity announced it had ordered a sixth Edge Series ocean ship, scheduled for delivery in 2028. The line’s fifth Edge Series ship, Celebrity Xcel, will make its debut in November, with seven-night Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale.

In an industry first, the ship is being co-designed by the cruise community, with travellers invited to help shape the interior and culinary offerings.

To book Celebrity Cruises sailings, call UAE +971 4 331 4299, KSA 800 897 1419, email book@rccl.ae or visit www.celebritycruises.ae

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