Celebrity Cruises has announced its ambitious foray into the river cruise sector, introducing a premium experience under the banner "Celebrity River Cruises." The company plans to launch 10 innovative vessels that will sail through Europe's historic cities along iconic rivers. This expansion aims to bring the same elegance and sophistication found in Celebrity's renowned ocean ships to river travel. Bookings are set to open this year, with the maiden voyage scheduled for 2027. The initiative underscores Celebrity’s commitment to enhancing intimate and culturally immersive travel experiences.

Introducing a New Era of River Cruising

The introduction of Celebrity River Cruises marks a significant milestone in the luxury travel industry. The brand is set to redefine river cruising by offering an elevated level of design and hospitality. Each vessel will be crafted to deliver an unparalleled journey through Europe's most picturesque waterways. By integrating elements from their successful Edge Series ocean ships, Celebrity aims to provide guests with a sophisticated and enriching experience that sets new standards in the market.

The first river cruise will commence in 2027, following the delivery of the initial fleet. These ships will feature state-of-the-art amenities and design elements that have become synonymous with Celebrity's brand. Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, highlighted the company's strategy to innovate and elevate the river cruise experience. He emphasized the growing demand for intimate, culturally enriching vacations and how Celebrity's entry into this market aligns perfectly with customer preferences. By leveraging loyalty programs across their brands, they aim to deepen customer engagement and offer a seamless vacation ecosystem.

Enhancing Guest Experience with Authentic Itineraries

Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, shared her vision for the new venture. She stressed the importance of bringing Celebrity's award-winning hospitality, culinary excellence, and stylish design to river cruising. The itineraries will focus on authentic, destination-rich experiences that immerse guests in local culture and history. This approach ensures that travelers enjoy a unique and memorable journey unlike any other river cruise.

The new Celebrity River Cruises will cater to the increasing number of travelers seeking more personalized and culturally immersive vacations. The company's decision to expand into this market comes after recognizing that nearly half of their guests have either experienced or expressed interest in river cruises. By combining Celebrity's signature offerings with carefully curated itineraries, the brand aims to create unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Additionally, this move complements the recent agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique for a sixth Edge Series ocean ship, further solidifying Celebrity's leadership in the luxury cruise sector.