A new era of cruise ship experiences is dawning with the introduction of The Bazaar aboard Celebrity Xcel. This innovative venue aims to bridge the gap between onboard activities and onshore adventures, offering guests an immersive journey through global cultures. Designed to evolve daily, The Bazaar will transform into various themed markets and festivals, providing unique opportunities for passengers to engage in hands-on crafts, sample regional cuisines, and enjoy live entertainment. Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, emphasizes the seamless integration of shipboard and destination experiences, allowing travelers to carry a piece of their journey with them. As Celebrity Xcel sets sail in the Caribbean, it will host exclusive festivals reflecting the visited ports’ cultural richness. Later, transitioning to European waters in 2026, The Bazaar will adapt to Mediterranean-inspired events, ensuring a diverse and dynamic experience for all.
The Bazaar's design revolves around creating authentic connections between cruisers and the destinations they visit. Each day brings fresh transformations, turning the space into vibrant artisan markets or lively festivals that mirror the essence of the regions encountered during the voyage. In the Caribbean, four distinct festivals will immerse guests in local traditions, from culinary delights to interactive craft workshops. These events promise an intimate exploration of the islands' culture, featuring regionally inspired food, crafting sessions, cooking classes, and performances by local artists. As the ship moves to Europe, The Bazaar will seamlessly transition, introducing Mediterranean-themed festivals and markets that reflect the rich heritage of the area. Interactive demonstrations by local artisans and the sale of handcrafted souvenirs will further enhance this cross-cultural exchange.
Culinary enthusiasts will find themselves at home in The Bazaar’s dining venues. Mosaic, an open-kitchen concept, invites guests to savor reimagined dishes inspired by each port’s flavors. Chef’s Table at Mosaic offers a multi-course tasting menu curated by Celebrity’s top chefs, showcasing their native cuisines paired with premium wines. For those eager to learn, Chef’s Studio at Mosaic provides a first-of-its-kind cooking school where participants can master regional delicacies under expert guidance. Meanwhile, Spice serves up casual international bites in a stunning café setting with panoramic ocean views. These dining experiences ensure that every meal becomes a memorable journey through taste and tradition.
Starting from Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Xcel will embark on seven-night Caribbean voyages, visiting iconic destinations like the Bahamas, Mexico, and St. Maarten. In summer 2026, the ship will shift to European waters, offering Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona and Athens, including overnight stays in Madeira. Through its dynamic programming and immersive experiences, Celebrity Xcel promises to redefine what it means to travel by sea, making every moment a celebration of global diversity and cultural discovery.