Celebrity Cruises is set to redefine the cruising experience with its latest vessel, the Celebrity Xcel, introducing a captivating venue known as The Bazaar. This immersive space promises to incorporate the rich cultural tapestry of the ship’s ports of call directly into the onboard experience. By transforming daily to mirror the destinations visited, The Bazaar aims to keep the essence of travel alive, allowing guests to engage with diverse cultures without ever stepping ashore.
The Bazaar, formerly occupied by the Eden restaurant on other Edge-class ships, will be a vibrant hub featuring a host of activities. Celebrity Cruises has promised a blend of local artisan products, hands-on craft experiences, music festivals, and entertainment curated to enhance the guests’ journey. Each day will bring fresh offerings, whether it’s dance classes influenced by regional culture or live performances from local artists. This dynamic approach ensures that every day on the ship feels unique, echoing the spirit of discovery synonymous with travel.
Central to the appeal of The Bazaar will be its culinary offerings, which will celebrate local cuisines through regionally inspired dishes and beverages. The venue will introduce an innovative open-kitchen experience called Mosaic. This will not only showcase cooking demonstrations but also provide guests the chance to indulge in a Chef’s Table experience, where they can savor expertly plated native dishes. Additionally, a cooking school at Mosaic promises an educational angle, allowing participants to replicate the flavors of their journey in their own kitchens.
As the Celebrity Xcel transitions to Europe in 2026, The Bazaar’s offerings will adapt to spotlight Mediterranean cultures. The reimagined space will embrace local culinary traditions and artistic expressions through themed festivals and local markets. This thoughtful evolution reflects Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to delivering an engaging travel experience while fostering an environment of cultural appreciation.
Celebrity Cruises is also seeking to involve its guests in the creation of The Bazaar’s offerings through its Dream Makers initiative. By encouraging input from patrons, the cruise line aims to tune the experiences to meet the desires of a diverse clientele. This community-oriented approach strengthens the bond between the cruise line and its guests, making them feel integral to the ongoing development of their on-board environment.
Set to commence operation in November, the Celebrity Xcel will embark on week-long cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale. Stops will include picturesque locations such as the Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten, promising a blend of adventure and relaxation. Come summer 2026, the cruise will reposition to the Mediterranean, offering extended stays in Barcelona and Athens, and including enchanting overnight visits to Madeira, Portugal.
The Celebrity Xcel and its innovative Bazaar are poised to not only elevate the cruising experience but also enhance the relationship between culture and travel. By inviting guests to participate in these shared experiences, Celebrity Cruises is redefining what it means to explore the world from the comfort of a ship.