Celebrity Xcel completes sea trials in France

Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship, Celebrity Xcel, has successfully completed sea trials on Saturday, September 13 off the coast of Saint-Nazaire, France, where the vessel is under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard.

Helmed by Captain Kyriakos “Kirk” Matragkas, the vessel underwent a series of maneuverability tests to assess its functional and operational performance before entering service.

Following the trials, Celebrity Xcel is on track to debut in November with inaugural sailings from Fort Lauderdale. 

The ship is the fifth in Celebrity’s Edge Series and will introduce seven new spaces.

During its first season, Celebrity Xcel will operate seven-night itineraries alternating between The Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Plata, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. 

In summer 2026, the ship will reposition to Europe, sailing seven- to 11-night Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona and Athens, including new overnight calls in Madeira, Portugal.

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