Your Celebrity Cruises
Guide Starts Here
Modern luxury at sea. Celebrity Cruises is a premium, innovative cruise line with 17 ships and nearly 300 destinations across all seven continents. Let me help you navigate every detail.
A Vacation That Exceeds Expectations
Celebrity Cruises has pioneered premium cruising for 35+ years. Their ships are floating resorts: James Beard Award‑level dining, transformative spa experiences, and attentive service that feels personal rather than scripted.
The Edge® Series
Five ships currently sailing (plus Celebrity Xcite℠ arriving 2028) redefine what a cruise ship can be. Iconic architectural features like the Magic Carpet and Rooftop Garden set them apart from anything else at sea.
The Retreat®
Celebrity’s suite experience is in a class of its own. The Retreat includes exclusive suite-only areas: a private restaurant (Luminae), a sundeck, a lounge, and a dedicated concierge team.
World-Class Dining
From the complimentary Oceanview Café to specialty restaurants like Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, Celebrity sets the standard for dining at sea. The food genuinely rivals land-based fine dining.
285+ Destinations
Celebrity sails to nearly 285 ports in 70+ countries on all seven continents—including the Galápagos Islands aboard Celebrity Flora®, the only all-suite ship designed specifically for that purpose.
All Included Fares
Many Celebrity sailings offer an “All Included” fare that bundles a Classic Beverage Package and Basic Wi-Fi into the price. Daily gratuities are billed separately. For most guests it’s a meaningful savings over buying drinks and Wi-Fi separately. Full details ↗
AquaClass Wellness
AquaClass staterooms connect you directly to The Spa with complimentary access to the Persian Garden thermal suite, special dining in Blu restaurant, and other wellness-focused perks throughout your sailing.
Celebrity Cruises Ships
Celebrity operates 16 ships in five distinct classes. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right ship for your travel style and destinations.
Edge® Series Ships
Celebrity’s most innovative and award-winning ships. Features include the iconic Magic Carpet (a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the ship exterior), the Rooftop Garden, the Grand Plaza, and Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud. The newest ship, Celebrity Xcel℠, debuted in 2025.
Solstice Class Ships
Beloved by repeat Celebrity cruisers, the Solstice class ships combine elegant design with Celebrity’s signature personalized service. Celebrity Solstice underwent a major renewal in 2025, gaining eight new spaces. These ships are particularly well-regarded for Alaska sailings.
Millennium Class Ships
Smaller and more intimate than the Edge or Solstice ships, Millennium class vessels are ideal for guests who prefer a less crowded feel. Celebrity Constellation and Celebrity Infinity are favorites for Mediterranean and European itineraries.
Celebrity Flora® & Celebrity Xperience®
Celebrity Flora is the first all-suites ship designed exclusively for Galápagos exploration, built in partnership with the Galápagos National Park. Celebrity Xperience is a smaller boutique vessel for intimate island exploration. Note: Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration were sold to Lindblad Expeditions in 2024 and are no longer part of the Celebrity fleet. These are bucket-list experiences unlike any other Celebrity sailing.
Celebrity Staterooms & Suites
Choosing the right stateroom category shapes your entire cruise experience. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s available and what each tier unlocks.
Interior Stateroom
- ✓No natural light—great for deep sleepers
- ✓Most affordable option
- ✓Full access to all ship amenities
- ✓Earn 2 Captain’s Club pts/night
Oceanview Stateroom
- ✓Window or porthole with natural light
- ✓No private outdoor space
- ✓Great for scenic itineraries
- ✓Earn 2 Captain’s Club pts/night
Veranda Stateroom
- ✓Private balcony for sea views
- ✓Best value outdoor space option
- ✓Earn 3 Captain’s Club pts/night
- ✓Infinite Veranda option on Edge ships
AquaClass® Stateroom
- ✓Complimentary Persian Garden access
- ✓Exclusive dining in Blu restaurant
- ✓Pillow menu & enhanced bath amenities
- ✓Earn 6 Captain’s Club pts/night
The Retreat® Suites
- ✓Exclusive Luminae restaurant
- ✓Private Retreat Sundeck & Lounge
- ✓Dedicated Retreat concierge team
- ✓Butler service (select suites)
- ✓Earn up to 24 pts/night (Penthouse)
Sky Suite The Retreat
Entry point into The Retreat. Full access to Luminae, the Retreat Lounge and Sundeck. A butler is assigned to your suite. Significantly more space than a standard stateroom, with a living area and large balcony. An outstanding value for the Retreat experience on most ships.
Aqua Sky Suite The Retreat
Combines The Retreat perks with AquaClass wellness benefits including complimentary Persian Garden access and Blu restaurant. A unique option for guests who want the best of both worlds.
Celebrity Suite The Retreat
Spacious suite with a separate living room, large marble bathroom with soaking tub, and generous balcony. Elevated furnishings and finishes compared to the Sky Suite. Popular choice for special occasions.
Penthouse Suite The Retreat
Among the largest and most luxurious accommodations on any Celebrity ship. Multiple rooms, panoramic views, dedicated butler and personal attendant, access to premium amenities not available in other suite categories.
Persian Garden Access
Complimentary, unlimited access to the Persian Garden thermal suite in The Spa on ships where it is available. Note: the Persian Garden is not available on Edge Class ships. Heated tile loungers, aromatherapy steam rooms, and thalassotherapy pool (where applicable). This alone can be worth $200+ over the course of a sailing.
Exclusive Blu Restaurant
AquaClass guests dine exclusively in Blu, a smaller, quieter Mediterranean-inspired restaurant adjacent to the main dining area. The food is lighter and more refined. Reservations aren’t required and it’s never crowded.
Wellness Touches In-Room
Pillow menu, VOYA bath and body products, an extra fresh fruit delivery each day, and a diffuser with essential oils. Small details that add up to a noticeably more restorative environment for sleep and relaxation.
All Included Pricing
Celebrity’s “All Included” fares bundle a Classic Beverage Package and Basic Wi-Fi into one price. Daily gratuities are charged separately. It still typically saves money versus buying drinks and Wi-Fi a la carte. Ask me to run the numbers for your sailing, or see Celebrity’s official All Included FAQ ↗.
Watch for Price Drops
Celebrity adjusts pricing regularly and allows price adjustments after booking (for refundable fares). Monitor your sailing after booking and contact me when the price drops—I can rebook you at the lower rate.
Book Early, Bid Later
Celebrity offers a “Move Up” bidding program that lets booked guests bid for stateroom upgrades. Book the category you’re happy with, then submit a bid for a higher category. Many guests land suite upgrades for a fraction of the retail difference. Note: Captain’s Club points are earned on your original booked category, not the upgraded one.
Food & Drink on Celebrity
Celebrity is consistently ranked among the best cruise lines for dining. Here’s a complete breakdown of what’s included, what costs extra, and how to make the most of the culinary experience.
Main Dining Room Included
Nightly dinner with table service in a classic restaurant setting. Celebrity’s MDR menus are a genuine cut above most cruise lines—sophisticated presentations and thoughtful wine pairings. Select Traditional (same table nightly) or Select Dining (flexible timing). Book your preferred time as soon as the Cruise Planner opens.
Oceanview Café Included
Casual all-day buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Celebrity’s buffets trend toward fresh, globally inspired options rather than standard cruise fare. An ideal choice for embarkation day lunch while cabins are being prepared.
Blu AquaClass Exclusive
Exclusive to AquaClass stateroom guests. Mediterranean-inspired, lighter cuisine in a calmer, more intimate setting than the MDR. The smaller venue means a more personal dining experience with no reservation required.
Luminae Retreat® Exclusive
The Retreat’s private restaurant, exclusive to suite guests. A completely separate menu from anywhere else on the ship. Widely regarded as the finest dining experience aboard Celebrity ships. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Mast Bar & Grill Included
Casual outdoor burgers, hot dogs, and snacks available near the pool deck. Perfect for a quick bite between activities without going back inside. Varies by ship class.
Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud 🍴 Additional $
The crown jewel of Celebrity’s specialty dining, found on Edge Series ships. James Beard Award‑winning Chef Daniel Boulud’s first restaurant at sea. French-inspired, multi-course tasting menus. Book as early as possible—tables sell out well in advance.
Fine Cut Steakhouse 🥩 Additional $
Celebrity’s signature steakhouse offering premium cuts and an extensive wine list. Impeccable service in an elegant setting. Pre-purchase via the Cruise Planner for the best rate—onboard walk-up pricing is higher.
Sushi on Five 🍥 Additional $
Fresh sushi, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired dishes on the 5th deck. Found on Solstice and Millennium class ships. Raw on 5 is the equivalent on Edge Series ships. A fan favorite for a lighter, more refined dinner option. Reservations recommended.
Tuscan 🍼 Additional $
Italian classics in a warm, romantic setting. Pastas, wood-fired dishes, and regional Italian wines. Available on Solstice and Millennium class ships. A beloved venue for anniversary and special occasion dinners.
Murano 🍴 Additional $
Celebrity’s signature European fine dining on Solstice and Millennium class ships. Elegant tableside presentations and classic French-inspired cuisine. The pinnacle of specialty dining on these ships — book your reservation as early as possible, it fills up fast.
Le Petit Chef 🍴 Additional $
One of the most talked-about experiences at sea: a digital animation of a tiny chef “cooking” your meal on your plate, paired with a multi-course dinner. Completely unique and a huge hit for groups and special occasions. Books out weeks before sailing — prioritize this one!
Qsine® 🤓 Additional $
Celebrity’s playful, interactive specialty dining experience. An iPad-ordered menu of globally inspired small plates designed to be shared. A genuinely fun group dinner option that feels unlike any other restaurant at sea.
Average Onboard Drink Prices (Without Package)
Beverage Package Options
Classic Beverage Package 🍸 Bundled in All Included
Covers cocktails, beer, wine, specialty coffee, sodas, and non-alcoholic drinks up to $12/drink, with beverage gratuities included. Rule: all guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom must choose the same package. See full FAQ ↗
Premium Beverage Package 💍 Upgrade $
Covers all drinks up to $17/drink, including premium spirits, craft beers, top-shelf cocktails, and high-end wines. If you typically order premium spirits or fine wines, the upgrade from Classic pays for itself quickly. Pre-cruise Cruise Planner pricing is almost always lower than onboard rates.
Zero Proof Package 🌶 Additional $
Non-alcoholic option covering specialty coffees, fresh-squeezed juices, premium water, and non-alcoholic cocktails. Perfect complement for non-drinkers traveling with guests who have an alcoholic package.
Captain’s Club℠
Celebrity’s loyalty program rewards repeat sailings with genuinely valuable perks. Enrollment is free—sign up before your first sailing to begin earning points from day one.
How Points Are Earned
Captain’s Club Tiers
Packing & Preparation
A well-packed bag and a few key preparations make the difference between a smooth sailing and unnecessary stress. Here’s what Erica recommends after years of helping clients get ready.
📅 120 Days Out As Soon as You Book
- ✓Confirm all passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date — if not, renew now (processing takes 10–13 weeks)
- ✓Purchase travel insurance — the earlier, the better for pre-existing condition coverage
- ✓Create your CelebrityCruises.com account and link your booking
- ✓Download the Celebrity Cruises app and link your reservation
- ✓Link your Captain’s Club number to your reservation (or enroll — it’s free!)
📅 90–60 Days Out Planning Window
- ✓Open your Cruise Planner (cruises.celebritycruises.com) — specialty dining, beverage packages, and excursions are available to book
- ✓Pre-purchase your beverage package (Classic or Premium) — always cheaper pre-cruise
- ✓Book specialty dining reservations — Le Voyage, Murano, and Le Petit Chef sell out early
- ✓Research and book shore excursions for each port stop
- ✓Consider submitting a Move Up bid for a stateroom upgrade
- ✓Book pre-cruise hotel if flying to your departure city
📅 45 Days Out Check-In Opens
- ✓Complete online check-in at CelebrityCruises.com or in the app as soon as it opens
- ✓Upload your headshot photo for each guest (speeds up terminal security)
- ✓Add a credit card to your onboard SeaPass account
- ✓Select your port arrival appointment time — earlier slots fill up fast
- ✓Download and save your eDocs / boarding pass to your phone (and print a backup)
- ✓Print or save your luggage tags — protect them with clear tape or luggage tag holders
📅 1–2 Weeks Out Final Prep
- ✓Start packing — lay everything out before you bag it
- ✓Notify your bank and credit cards of your travel dates and destinations
- ✓Photograph all documents and store copies in a secure cloud folder
- ✓Pack a carry-on day bag with swimsuit, sunscreen, medications, snacks, and documents — checked bags don’t reach your stateroom until early afternoon
- ✓Arrange airport/port transportation and parking
- ✓Confirm all dining, excursion, and package bookings in the app
📅 Embarkation Day Go Time!
- ✓Arrive at the port at your selected appointment time (not earlier — it causes delays)
- ✓Hand checked bags to porters with luggage tags attached — you’ll see them in your cabin by early afternoon
- ✓Carry your day bag with you through boarding — do not give it to porters
- ✓Board, head to the Oceanview Café for a complimentary embarkation lunch — staterooms typically open 1:00–2:00 PM
- ✓Explore the ship, locate your muster station, and confirm dining reservations
✅ Passport Strongly Recommended
- ✓Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date
- ✓A passport is always the safest choice — accepted for all Celebrity itineraries worldwide
- ✓Renewal processing takes 10–13 weeks; expedited service is available but more expensive
- ✓If your name has changed, carry supporting documentation (marriage certificate, etc.)
📄 Birth Certificate + Photo ID Closed-Loop Only
- ✓U.S. citizens on round-trip sailings from a U.S. port may use an original birth certificate + valid government photo ID in lieu of a passport
- ✓Name must match exactly — bring bridge documents (marriage certificate) if your name has changed
- ✓A passport is still the safest option; if you miss the ship abroad, re-entry without one is complicated
🔌 REAL ID If Flying to Port
- ✓Required for domestic air travel within the U.S.
- ✓Look for the gold or black star symbol in the upper corner of your driver’s license
- ✓Not required at the cruise terminal — your passport or birth certificate handles that
📋 Other Required Documents Carry All of These
- ✓Celebrity Cruises booking confirmation
- ✓eDocs boarding pass (downloaded from app or website, or printed)
- ✓Travel insurance policy number and 24-hour claims line
- ✓Visas (if required for your itinerary — ask Erica if you’re unsure)
- ✓Prescription medications in original labeled containers
- ✓Photograph all documents and store copies in a secure cloud folder
📄 Documents & Essentials Must Have
- ✓Valid passport (recommended even when not legally required)
- ✓Celebrity SeaPass card setup in the Celebrity app before sailing
- ✓Credit card registered for onboard account
- ✓Celebrity app downloaded and linked to your sailing
- ✓Boarding passes printed or saved in the app
- ✓Travel insurance documentation
- ✓Prescription medications in original labeled containers
- ✓Excursion confirmations (if booked independently)
👔 Clothing & Dress Code Smart Packing
- ✓Smart Casual attire for MDR most evenings
- ✓1–2 formal or evening chic outfits for special nights
- ✓Light layers for evenings (ships are often cool)
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes for ports
- ✓Swimwear (2+ sets for drying between uses)
- ✓Cover-ups and sandals for pool deck
- ✓Workout clothes if using the fitness center
- ✓Rain jacket or packable windbreaker
🌞 Spa & Wellness Optional Upgrade
- ✓Flip flops for Persian Garden (AquaClass guests)
- ✓Your preferred skincare products (Celebrity provides basics)
- ✓Yoga mat (fitness centers have mats, but personal ones are lighter)
🔌 Technology Smart Packing
- ✓Power strip (non-surge; surge protectors are prohibited)
- ✓Phone charging cables (Celebrity staterooms have limited outlets)
- ✓Portable battery bank for port days
- ✓Camera and/or GoPro for excursions
- ✓International SIM or plan sorted (for port days)
- ✓Waterproof phone pouch for water excursions
👔 Smart Casual Every Evening in MDR
- ✓Men: collared shirts, slacks or khakis
- ✓Women: sundresses, skirts, dressy tops, or blouses with slacks
- ╳No shorts, tank tops, or ripped jeans in the Main Dining Room at dinner
- ✓Casual poolside attire is fine on the pool deck and Oceanview Café
✨ Evening Chic 1–2 Nights Per Sailing
- ✓Women: cocktail dresses, elegant jumpsuits, evening separates, or formal gowns
- ✓Men: suits or sport coats with dress shirt and slacks; tie optional
- ✓Celebrity’s signature dressy nights — a beautiful opportunity to feel glamorous at sea
- ✓Specialty restaurants like Le Voyage and Luminae observe the dress code nightly
🌊 During the Day Casual
- ✓Swimwear, cover-ups, shorts, and sandals are appropriate on deck and by the pool
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes are essential for port days
- ✓Light layers for evenings and air-conditioned venues — ships can be chilly indoors
🚫 Prohibited Items Do Not Bring
- ╳Surge protector power strips — plain strips without surge protection are fine
- ╳Irons and steamers — Celebrity offers laundry and pressing services onboard
- ╳Drones — not permitted on Celebrity ships or in port areas
- ╳Outside alcohol — 1 bottle of wine or Champagne per adult (750ml) permitted at embarkation only; all other outside alcohol is confiscated
- ╳Candles and incense — open flames are prohibited in staterooms
🌞 Port-Day Smart List Good to Know
- ✓Bring reef-safe sunscreen for every tropical port — required at many destinations
- ✓Carry small bills in local currency for tips and market shopping
- ✓Always confirm your all-aboard time before leaving the ship — posted at the gangway
- ✓Leave a 1–2 hour buffer between any independent tour and your all-aboard time
- ✓Celebrity-booked excursions are ship-guaranteed: if your tour runs late, the ship waits
Erica’s Celebrity Pro Tips
These are the tips I give every Celebrity client. Small decisions made before and during your sailing that make a big difference in the overall experience.
Use the Cruise Planner Early
Celebrity’s Cruise Planner typically opens 9–12 months before sailing. Specialty dining, excursions, and spa appointments book up quickly, especially on sold-out sailings. Log in early, book what you want, and monitor for price drops—you can usually re-book at the lower rate.
Move Up Bidding Strategy
Book a stateroom category you’d be genuinely happy with, then submit a Move Up bid for the category above. Many guests upgrade to AquaClass or even a Sky Suite for surprisingly little. Be patient—accepted bids often come in 48–72 hours before sailing.
Buy the Photo Package Early
Celebrity’s professional photographers are everywhere—embarkation, formal nights, port days. The unlimited digital package is a fraction of per-photo pricing. Buy it in the first day or two of the sailing for the best rate. For families and groups, it’s almost always worth it.
Arrive the Night Before
Flight delays and traffic happen. Missing your ship’s departure is an expensive, heartbreaking way to start a vacation. Erica strongly recommends arriving at your departure city the night before. Ask me for hotel recommendations near your port!
Embarkation Day Routine
Cabins typically open at 1–2pm. Head to the Oceanview Café for lunch when you board, then explore the ship, find your muster station, and confirm dining reservations. The ship is least crowded in the first few hours—great time to check out pools, bars, and specialty venues.
Sea Days Are Golden
Don’t over-schedule yourself on port days and miss the ship. Sea days are when you experience everything Celebrity does best: specialty dining at leisure, the spa without crowds, entertainment, and the pure joy of being at sea. Many guests wish they had more sea days.
NextCruise Booking Onboard
Booking your next Celebrity sailing while still onboard gets you reduced deposits and often onboard credit. You can transfer the booking to me after you return home, and I can continue managing it for you. One of the best-kept secrets for repeat cruisers.
Ship-Guaranteed vs. Independent Excursions
Celebrity-booked excursions are ship-guaranteed: if your tour runs late, the ship waits for you. Independent tours (Viator, local operators) often give a richer, more personal experience at lower prices — but if you’re late back to the port, the ship will leave without you. Always leave a 1–2 hour buffer and know your all-aboard time.
Gratuities & How They Work
Daily gratuities are charged separately on all Celebrity bookings, including All Included fares. Current rates: $18/person/day (Inside, Oceanview, Veranda); $19/person/day (Concierge & AquaClass); $23/person/day (The Retreat). A 20% gratuity applies to specialty dining and beverage purchases; 18% applies to spa and salon services. Pre-paying staff gratuities through the Cruise Planner before sailing is a smart way to budget ahead. Full policy: Celebrity Gratuity FAQ ↗
I’m Here to Make Your Celebrity Cruise Unforgettable
Hi, I’m Erica with Polka Dots N Wishes Travel! Celebrity Cruises is one of my absolute favorites to book, and I’ve invested deeply in knowing every ship, every stateroom category, every dining venue, and every loyalty perk. No question is too small—my job is to make sure you step off that ship with nothing but incredible memories. Let’s find your perfect sailing.
Erica@PolkadotsNWishesTravel • Proud Loyal to You Always Partner
