First look at Celebrity Ascent: This elegant new cruise ship is perfect for entertainment buffs and solo travelers

Ashley Kosciolek

I'm just back from Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises ' newest ship and the fourth in its Edge Class of vessels . It's exactly what passengers have come to expect from the line, which offers a modern, edgy take on everything from food to entertainment.

The latter is truly what shines on board. The new ship stands out for its buzzworthy new theater shows, a private entertainment room and a lively after-dark deck party.

Another unrelated highlight is that the ship features twice as many cabins for solo travelers as the line's first Edge-class ship, Celebrity Edge.

Below is an outline of what's new, along with my commentary on the handful of offerings I was able to actually test out during my quick two-day voyage.

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celebrity cruises ascent ship

New to the Celebrity fleet and exclusive to Celebrity Apex, The Annex is a small space on Deck 5 that offers a private area for groups of up to 15 people to sing karaoke, watch movies or sporting events, or play virtual sports like golf and dodgeball.

The room can be rented in two-and-a-half-hour increments at a cost of $150 to $375 for 10 people, depending on the package booked and whether it's a port day or a sea day. (Each additional person up to 15 people is $35.) The price includes food and drinks (including bottled water and soda) from Craft Social, the ship's pub, brought to you by a dedicated waiter. Choose from items including burgers, fries and chicken wings. (Note that alcohol is included with some packages. Otherwise, alcohol will cost extra for passengers who don't have drink packages.)

A built-in sound system allows you to play music, either from your own device or preset playlists.

When I tried my luck on the virtual golf driving range, I found that it was difficult to put the ball in a position that made sense. (Hitting from the designated spot on the green was tough. Tees were available, but because they didn't push far enough into the turf, the balls were suspended awkwardly far off the ground.)

The space is comfortable and inviting, with sports-themed seating and pillows facing a giant screen where you can either watch your game or movie of choice or select from a list of 1,000 movie titles. Overall, it's a great concept, particularly if you're traveling with a large family or a group of friends. It would also make for a fun date night activity or a celebration of a special occasion on board.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Entertainment is phenomenal on the Edge Class vessels, which strive to be funkier than the average cruise ship. When you're talking about song-and-dance performances that incorporate popular tunes throughout the ages, it's easy for the results to be cheesy.

Fortunately, that's not the case on Celebrity Ascent. Two sets of performers — the theater cast and the Eden cast — bring the productions to life with aplomb, hitting an impressive vocal range and mastering pop-and-lock routines that would make Paula Abdul jealous.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

And, of course, no Celebrity show would be complete without jaw-dropping feats of contortion and acrobatics. They're offered in spades during shows that include "Awaken" and "Bridges," both hosted in the ship's main theater and "Shimmerbox," which takes place in Eden, an earthy lounge that also houses a restaurant, bar, cafe and performance space.

"Awaken" focuses on a series of fever dream-style numbers, and incorporates creative costumes and "Oh, wow!" dance steps with well-known songs. My particular favorites included one that evoked the '80s with some Bruno Mars tunes and "Stranger Things" vibes and another that's what I imagine you'd get if Janet Jackson were a character in "The Matrix." In my opinion, this is the show not to miss.

Then there's "Bridges," which takes you, through song and dance, to some of the world's most iconic bridges, including Tower Bridge in London and the Brooklyn and Golden Gate Bridges in the U.S. Numbers include slower dances and breakdancing interspersed with aerialist performances that elicit cheers from the stunned audience.

"Shimmerbox" is a more intimate, interactive experience, where the singers and dancers draw audience members onto the dancefloor to cut a rug or sing karaoke. It's fun, but I'm more of a sit-and-watch type. Worried I'd have to become a joiner, I vacated my front-row seat about 20 minutes into the performance, when the man sitting next to me was chosen to participate.

Nightclub fun

celebrity cruises ascent ship

The Club, Celebrity Ascent's nightclub, is a cozy two-deck venue that's home to dance parties, as you might expect. However, it's also where you'll find daytime sporting events like street curling and "Game On," interactive gaming with an '80s theme where passengers use their bodies as controllers to manipulate projections on the floor. There are six games total, each lasting for just a few minutes. They require players to dodge enemies and defend goals.

At night, head there for "Smoke & Ivories," a new high-energy show featuring singing, dancing and acrobatics from the Eden cast.

I'll be blunt: The Club is way too small to host the show. If you don't arrive super early, not only will you not get a seat, but you won't even be able to get into the venue — on either deck. I tried standing at the back but left after five minutes because I couldn't see much. What I did catch appeared to be impressive, evoking a steamy jazz club in New Orleans.

On my voyage, "Smoke & Ivories" was on the schedule for only one performance. On a standard weeklong sailing, the show will be offered on one night at two different times, so there will be one additional chance to see it.

Shimmer party

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Ain't no party like a pool deck party — especially if it's at night and involves glitter and glow wands. Celebrity Ascent's "Shine the Night" themed outdoor soiree encourages passengers to wear something sparkly in preparation for a night of dancing with a DJ set against a giant glowing light sculpture that pulsates and changes color with the music. No sparkles, no problem: Crew members hand out LED batons akin to mini-pool noodles to attendees.

The pool didn't seem to be closed during the party on my sailing, so it's unclear whether swimming will be allowed during the event.

Although clubbing isn't something I normally do, I had a good time, despite the humid Bahamas weather. It was definitely one of the most lively pool parties I've attended on a ship.

Solo cabins galore

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Like many of the industry's most popular cruise lines, Celebrity has had solo cabins on its newest vessels for several years. Given their popularity, the line more than doubled the number of solo accommodations from Celebrity Edge's 16 rooms to 36 on Celebrity Ascent.

This is notable because it's the only thing different about the cabin categories on the newest ship. Rooms for one are notoriously in demand; by doubling the number available, the line has allowed more opportunity for cruisers traveling alone to sail without having to pay a single supplement for a room designed for two or more people.

Ascent's solo cabins are available as Infinite Verandas, which, instead of standard balconies, feature large glass windows that can be opened or closed with the push of a button to allow fresh air inside.

The ship's other cabins include inside cabins with no windows, outside cabins with windows that don't open and balcony rooms (regular balconies and Infinite Verandas). The vessel also boasts a selection of elevated accommodations, such as AquaClass cabins, which focus on wellness and have their own private restaurant; Concierge Class that gives access to concierge services; and The Retreat, the line's exclusive suite area, which offers seven different types of lavish cabins and gives passengers access to a private dining room, sun deck and lounge.

New dining offerings

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Celebrity Ascent does not have any completely new restaurants, but there are tweaks and new additions to some dining venues.

Leading off is Le Petit Chef, a for-fee ($60 per person) dinner experience held in French restaurant Le Grand Bistro each night. Several of Celebrity's other ships have had Le Petit Chef, but now he's back with a brand-new show, "Le Petit Chef and the Magical Cooking Book."

In this one, with the help of artificial intelligence, he stumbles upon a fairy who grants him three wishes. The story plays out through projections that show up on each diner's place setting. The chef prepares each dish virtually before servers bring out the real thing for your meal.

Reservations are essential; I was unable to snag one but heard mixed reviews about both the food and the show's plot.

The next-largest culinary development on board is at Eden Restaurant, which focuses on delicious Mediterranean cuisine for $85 per person or $120 for tasting menus. It now offers a vegan tasting menu in addition to its standard one. Unfortunately, it wasn't available during my sailing when I asked, so I wasn't able to try it. However, I absolutely adored the bazaar bowl with chilled labneh, beets, cucumber, almonds and naan bread and the sheep's milk gnocchi I ordered off the standard menu.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Finally, Blu — the main restaurant for cruisers booked in the ship's AquaClass wellness-themed cabins — is now open for lunch and has outdoor seating with lovely sea views. When I asked about the alfresco dining area, I was told it wasn't available.

The ship also has four main dining rooms. The menus are the same in all four, with the exception of a small section that's exclusive to each one, based on its theme: Tuscan (Italian), Normandie (French), Cyprus (Mediterranean) and Cosmopolitan (new American with global influences). Anyone familiar with Cosmopolitan will notice that it has been redesigned with a slightly new look that features more ornate decor on Celebrity Ascent.

Other complimentary eateries include Eden Cafe for sandwiches and salads; the Oceanview Cafe buffet, offering stations with a variety of cuisines in a casual atmosphere; Mast Grill, serving hot dogs and burgers; and Luminae, the main dining room that's exclusive to passengers booked in The Retreat.

Additionally, the vessel has welcomed returning added-fee favorites: Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud, which features international fare and has been slightly redesigned from its first iteration on Celebrity Beyond; Fine Cut steakhouse; The Spa Cafe, which offers health-conscious dining options and smoothies; Craft Social for bar bites; Raw on 5, serving up fresh seafood; and the Rooftop Garden Grill, where you can dine alfresco on upscale grill fare and pizza.

In general, it was difficult to get a feel for what the restaurants would be like on a full-length voyage because my cruise was so short, and many of the specialty dining venues were offering abridged menus or family-style sharing plates not normally found on the regular menus.

Brothers as co-captains

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Name one other ship helmed by siblings who will drop anchor and take passengers out for lifeboat races. I bet you can't. But that's what happened on Celebrity Ascent.

Brothers Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis are both captains for Celebrity Cruises and with the debut of the new ship, they're trading off responsibilities every three months. The pair brings decades of maritime experience, as well as a combination of chemistry and wit that would also be well suited to a career in standup comedy.

"And now, I'm going to do something called ... a doughnut!" Captain D said while steering one of two lifeboats being used to take cruisers on my preview sailing out for a look at the ship from the water. It wasn't an idle promise, either. Soon, we found ourselves spinning in circles. (I'll admit I was briefly sorry I hadn't popped a Dramamine prior to the experience.)

After that, we lost in a race against his brother, who was driving a second lifeboat nearby. "Captain Tasos is 30 pounds lighter than me!" Captain D shouted, maneuvering us across the waves in a way that guaranteed a delightful Seaworld-like spray of water dampened everyone inside the boat through its open hatches.

Bottom line

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Celebrity Ascent is a nearly identical quadruplet to its Edge Class siblings but with some minor adjustments that make it even better than previous iterations.

Although there are no major changes in cabins or dining, The Annex and all of the vessel's new productions represent an evolution of the class' entertainment offerings.

Above all, Celebrity Ascent is sure to provide a terrific vacation for everyone from fun-loving but refined couples, families, friend groups and solos, all of whom will appreciate the premium, upscale vibe and cutting-edge onboard amenities.

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Celebrity Ascent

Former name: stx france m34.

Celebrity Ascent cruise ship

Cruise line Celebrity Cruises

  • Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
  • Barcelona (Spain)
  • Civitavecchia-Rome (Italy)

Celebrity Ascent current position

Celebrity Ascent current location is at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 25.08240 N / -77.34308 W) cruising en route to Cozumel. The AIS position was reported 8 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity Ascent current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Bahamas, Mexico, Grand Cayman . Prices start from USD 1246 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 03 Mar, 2024 and ends on 10 Mar, 2024 .

Specifications of Celebrity Ascent

  •   Itineraries
  •   Review
  •   Wiki

Celebrity Ascent Itineraries

Celebrity ascent review, review of celebrity ascent.

The 2023-built Celebrity Ascent cruise ship is the fourth in a series of five EDGE-class passenger liners - with sisterships Celebrity Edge (2018), Celebrity Apex (2021), Celebrity Beyond (2022) and Celebrity Xcel (2025). All these large vessels (GT tonnage 140K) are by the shipbuilding company Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France .

The vessel (IMO number 9838400) is currently Malta- flagged (MMSI 256191000) and registered in Valletta .

History - construction and ownership

Celebrity Cruises was founded in 1988 as the Greece-based Chandris Line (cruise shipping operations between 1974-1996). In 1997, Royal Caribbean International (RCI) merged with "Celebrity Cruises Ltd" to become "Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd" (RCCL). The "X" on ship funnels is the Greek letter chi (standing for "Chandris").

Common features of Celebrity Cruises ships include aft-located glass-walled dining rooms, signature alternate dining venues, bars and lounges, spacious Atrium lobby areas, a large number of balcony staterooms, large sundecks with swimming pools, The Retreat (adults-only sundeck with full-size swimming pool, Jacuzzi, cabanas, poolside full bar service), Rooftop Terrace (top-deck outdoor lounge-restaurant-cinema), large Spa (with Thermal Suites), premium retail shops selling top-brand merchandise.

Celebrity Ascent cruise ship

The 3300-passenger ship Celebrity Ascent is the 4th newbuild by "Project Edge" (ship class). These new ships are bigger than Millennium-class but smaller than Solstice-class. The company advertised "small-ship itineraries with large-ship amenities", destination-rich experiences, iconic maritime architecture.

New features (Edge-Class ship design changes)

In comparison to the Edge-class sisterships Apex and Edge, Ascent is longer (20 m / 66 ft), taller (1 deck), with bigger capacity (179 more staterooms), and ~12% larger (GT 140600 tons). Celebrity Ascent also features significant design changes, with added new venues and expanded public spaces.

New venues and spaces on Celebrity Ascent include "Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud" (50-seat specialty restaurant by Daniel Boulud/celebrity chef and restaurant chain owner), redesigned Luminae (Suite-only restaurant designed by Kelly Elaine Hoppen/ South Africa-born British interior designer), redesigned Pool Deck, expanded Rooftop Garden (deck 15/with larger shaded seating areas, 2x infinity pools, bigger Rooftop Grill Bar), twice-larger Sunset Bar (aft on deck 15), larger Retreat (Suite-only bar lounge forward on deck 15).

  • The Resort Deck (deck 14) was also redesigned, having a 23-m / 75-ft long lap pool (swimming pool with in-pool chaise loungers) surrounded by a terraced sundeck, The pool deck also features 2-deck high Jacuzzies (martini glass-shaped whirlpool hot tubs), sunken seating areas, a real-size Elephant statue.
  • Sunset Bar (decks 15-16) is a 2-deck, Casablanca Morocco -themed outdoor bar lounge (designed by Nate Berkus and Tom Wright/WKK) with a pergola-covered entrance, cascading terraces, covered enclaves, conversation niches.
  • The Retreat is a 3-deck-high exclusive (Suites-only) forward-midship located complex with The Retreat Lounge (on deck 15), Lower Sundeck (deck 16, with a glass-roof cover over The Solarium's pool/on deck 14) and The Retreat Sundeck (on deck 17). The Retreat Sundeck is an outdoor area served by The Retreat Bar and offers as amenities cabanas (available for rent), premium furniture (deckchairs, padded loungers, cushioned sofas, daybeds), a round-shaped swimming pool, two plunge pools (cantilevered hot tubs), outdoor showers, restrooms. The Retreat's Edge Villas (2-deck accommodations) were also redesigned.
  • Le Voyage Restaurant (capacity 50 seats) is via partnership with Daniel Boulud - Chef-Owner of 7x NYC restaurants plus 6x in other cities. The food menu (developed by the Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud) is complemented by a premium wine selection menu and top-quality service by professional sommeliers. Le Voyage Restaurant was designed by Jouin Manku and features Intimate seating cocoons and designer lighting.
  • World Class Bar (fleet's first) is via partnership with Diageo plc (1997-founded, London-based beverage alcohol company) which by annual alcohol production volumes was the world's largest distiller until 2017 (when was surpassed by China's Kweichow Moutai Co). World Class Bar is a premium wine bar and cocktail venue served by expert mixologists.

WKK Architects' Tom Wright redesigned and expanded most of the ship's outdoor spaces - including Resort Deck, The Retreat, Rooftop Garden.

Resort Deck is ~40% larger than on the ships Apex and Edge. The space also houses the "Ascent After Dark: Shine the Night" experience featuring a prism light show and live DJ music.

Celebrity Ascent ship (Rooftop Garden)

The 3-deck-high Grand Plaza (open-floor designed midship area) is larger which allowed the Martini Bar to be moved to the venue's center (on Lobby level/deck 2) as a full-circle bar. Grand Plaza's chandelier features a new shape and hundreds of LED lights.

New to the Celebrity cruise ship Ascent are the AquaClass SkySuites, featuring floor-ceiling views, large private terraces, premium bedding and wellness amenities. With the new ship is also introduced a new partnership with Gwyneth Kate Paltrow (1972-born American actress, model, entrepreneur, businesswoman) serving as Celebrity Cruises' "Well-Being Advisor".

Since 2022, all Celebrity AquaClass passengers (fleetwide but excluding the Galapagos boats) enjoy complimentary wellness amenities (including fitness kits from Paltrow's goop brand) and custom wellness programming part of the Celebrity's new initiative "Women in Wellness".

Decks and Cabins

Most Celebrity Ascent staterooms are Balcony rooms. Of all the 1646 staterooms, 918 are Edge Staterooms (with Infinite Verandas) and 176 are Suites. All staterooms are fitted with keyless cabin entry technology that uses digital keys (on smartphones), as well as standard keycards and RFID bands.

The boat has 16 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 10 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Celebrity Ascent ship offers 32 food and beverage serving venues, including 4 main dining rooms/MDRs and 6 new-to-Celebrity Cruises specialty restaurants. In total, the Ascent cruise ship has 15 restaurants, 5 cafes, 12 bars and lounges.

Ascent's MDR restaurants are named Cosmopolitan (contemporary American cuisine), Cyprus (Mediterranean), Normandie (French) and Tuscan (Italian). MDRs' combined menus have 84 different items/dishes listed.

Passengers in AquaClass staterooms or Suites eat at Blu Restaurant, offering lighter "spa-inspired" cuisine. The Luminae Restaurant is named "Luminae at The Retreat" and (along with Blu) is part of the private, Suite Class passengers exclusive complex "The Retreat". Suite passengers have also the option to eat in the Main Dining Rooms / MDRs (Normandie Restaurant, Tuscan Restaurant, Cosmopolitan Restaurant, Cyprus Restaurant). These 4 complimentary restaurants serve menus inspired by the itinerary/destinations visited. Each restaurant offers regional wines and themed cocktails, dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, also a rotating menu of Signature dishes for dinner (changing every evening) and a Classic dinner menu. The ship's main restaurants are served by dedicated to each table wait staff (sommelier, assistant waiter, head waiter). Passengers are assigned to one of the 4 MDRs but still have the option (upon request) to dine in the other 3.

Celebrity Ascent offers the company's traditional "Celebrity Select Dining" (your-time dining for dinners) option, which is renamed to "Celebrity Select Dining Plus". Passengers can make reservations in any of the 4 MDRs if they know they want to eat at a specific restaurant and dinner time, or they can simply show up and enjoy dinner on their own time.

In addition to the 4 MDR restaurants, there are plenty of complimentary dining venues, such as Oceanview Cafe (live cooking stations, bakery), Mast Grill (poolside), Spa Cafe & Juice Bar (healthy food and beverages), Eden Cafe (wide variety of breakfast and lunch items). The ship also has two outdoor alfresco seating venues.

The ship has a total of 11 bars and lounges, including Eden, Cafe al Bacio, The Club, Sunset Bar, Theatre Bar, Casino Bar, Martini Bar (at Grand Plaza), Pool Bar, Il Secondo Bacio, The Retreat Bar, The Retreat Lounge.

The ship has a number of for-fee restaurants (at surcharge per person), including Qsine (USD 45 pp), Tuscan Grill (Italian steakhouse, USD 45 pp), Murano (French, USD 45 pp), Lawn Club Grill (DIY steaks, USD 40 pp), Bistro on 5 (creperie, USD 10 pp), The Porch (USD 5 pp, panini restaurant open for breakfast and lunch). At Qsine, passengers can order on iPads, then waiters bring the food in the order of choosing.

Chef's Table is a VIP/private dining room available for rent. Chef's Table's capacity is 6 seats and offers a multi-course dinner with premium wine pairings.

Craft Social Bar (debuted on Celebrity Apex) features large selections of premium wines (sold by the glass), craft cocktails and craft beers (50+ brands, including several of the world's rarest). Craft Social Bar is served by certified beer sommeliers. Unlike the sisterships, Ascent's Craft Social has two barrels of hand-selected WhistlePig whiskey - "Special Single Barrel Aged 10 Years" and "Special Bespoke Barrel Aged 12 Years". WhistlePig whiskeys can be ordered a la carte or as part of a whiskey-tasting flight. Flights also feature WhistlePig PiggyBack 100 Proof Bourbon Whiskey (Aged 6 Years), WhistlePig 10-Year-Old Rye and WhistlePig 12-Year-Old Rye whiskeys.

Unlike the other EDGE-class Celebrity ships, Ascent has redesigned restaurants and expanded menus (food and drinks).

The exclusive Blu Restaurant on Ascent has an outdoor terrace for alfresco dining (breakfast and dinner)..

The Eden Restaurant offers a new plant-based tasting menu (7-course dinner) with all dishes being prepared with ingredients sourced from their native place of origin and presented naturally. The menu items include Golden Beet-Tomato Ceviche, Ajoblanco Panna Cotta (aka Ajo Blanco, Spanish Almond Soup), Celeriac Steak, Rose Masala Chai (aka Rose Petal Masala Curry). The tasting menu is at fee (per person) or a-la-carte. The Eden Restaurant also offers organic and vegan food with wine pairings.

For Ascent, Celebrity Cruises signed an exclusive partnership with the WhistlePig whiskey distillery (2007-founded company based in Shoreham, Vermont USA/the WhistlePig brand was launched in 2010). WhistlePig produces ultra-premium rye whiskey and on Ascent there are two barrels of whiskey (served at Craft Social Bar) made exclusively for Celebrity Cruises.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Ship's Lawn Deck is equipped with real grass and the vessel has more deck chairs than others, offering a calm atmosphere under the sun. The Celebrity iLounge gives guests computer tutorial classes and is also a representative of Apple, providing access to the most affordable Mac products available at duty-free prices. Another feature of Celebrity Ascent is the AquaSpa Cafe, ideal for a quick lunch after the spa.

Sky Observation Lounge offers live music at sunset, or you can test your luck at Fortune's Casino - there's something to do onboard at any time.

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ships

Virtual Concierge app allows booking dinner and spa reservations, drinks ordering, room service, and other services. Smartphone sensors are used to track passengers on the ship in order to improve services based on their location.

EDGE-Class ships also have Celebrity fleet's most technologically advanced Theater Lounge - spanning 3 floors/decks. Here are held fleet's largest number of production shows, with the largest number of performing crew on any premium-brand ship.

Theatre Lounge is the fleet's largest and has all 7 stage areas - 3x large and 4x smaller. The Theater's main stage extends (into the audience) and is flanked by 2x directional rotating platforms raising over 2 m (7 ft) above the main stage. Lounge's design and technology also feature 2x rotating spiral staircases, 10x synchronized (mobile) projection screens, 16x video mapping laser projectors, and rigging for aerial performances. The Theatre offers 7x new full shows, including Shakespeare-based "A Hot Summer Night's Dream" (with acrobatics), "The Jewelry Box" (technological), "Kaleidoscope" (high-energy music and dance), "Arte" (acrobatics), "Elements" (themed on the five elements/air-water-earth-fire-ether, with "air sculptures" and acrobatic performances), "Stage Door" (musical pre-recorded in The London Palladium Theatre), plus two "Headline Residency" program-based new shows - "Get Up" (pop concert by Black Skull Creative) and "The Purpose" (celebrating the inner self).

Exclusively for the Celebrity ship ascent were developed three new shows titled "Awaken" (dreams-themed), "Residency" (Las Vegas-themed) and "Bridges" (exploring human emotions/connections against the backdrop of the world's most famous bridges).

"The Club" is another new (dual-purpose) venue with a large dance floor, a stage for live performances, a giant LED screen, and served by its own 2 bars. During the day, The Club offers fun activities and games (including Funovation Laser Maze Challenge, Drone Hunting, laser obstacle course, dance classes, trivia). At night, it transforms into "The Jazz Joint at The Club" (live performances by vocalists, dancers, comedians) and later into the disco nightclub "Undercover at The Club". The nightly program is themed on the US Prohibition era, with a menu offering signature 1920s craft cocktails and aerial saxophonist performances. Andromeda body scanner allows passengers to become someone else for the entire evening. Hypno Cam Experience is a dance party, in which an Ultra HD camera is passed around and all photos are instantly displayed on the LED screen.

Ship's Kids Club offers by the "Camp at Sea" program over 500 complimentary activities for children of all ages. The facility features two (new for the fleet) separate spaces (for kids and teens) called "The Basement".

Celebrity's signature Rooftop Garden (top-deck dining-entertainment bar lounge) offers expanded facilities and show programming (Rooftop Concert Series, Garden Cinema Series, Taste of Film experience under-the-stars, with 5 new live musical performances).

In 2023, Celebrity introduced pickleball playing courts fleetwide. The sports facilities are complimentary, including the pickleball equipment (net, paddles, balls) but operated with separate scheduled playing times for adults and families (with kids older than 6). While on older vessels the pickleball courts are either on the Sports Deck or at the Multi-Sports Court, on the EGDE ships pickleball is played at the Rooftop Garden.

Shipboard group gaming activities include "Game On: Augmented Multiplayer Experience" (interactive competitions), "Guilty Pleasures" (singalong party), "Sands of Time" (escape room-type team playing/puzzles and clues), and "Sketch Art Classes" (step-by-step art lessons).

Grand Plaza

The Grand Plaza serves as the ship's epicenter (midship location) and spans 3 decks. The open-floor designed venue mixes modernity and simplicity and was inspired by the charming era of Transatlantic ocean liners. The concept was designed by Jouin Manku Studio.

The unique space has a striking lighting feature - The Chandelier, an art installation rising over the Grand Plaza Martini Bar (in the Lobby level's center) to the ceiling 3 decks above. It is composed of 5 levels and a total of 765 blades illuminated via dynamic LED strips changing their colors from day to night, The Chandelier weighs 7 tons.

The Grand Plaza houses many of the liner's new specialty restaurants, including Fine Cut Steakhouse and Raw on 5 (Deck 5) Le Grand Bistro and Cafe al Bacio (Deck 4), Grand Plaza Cafe (Deck 3), Italian piazzas. Midship-Deck 3 is the Martini Bar (also popular for its Flair Bartender Shows). Adorning the edges of Grand Plaza are hand-stitched mesh screens that combine over 13,500 art pieces made of leather, fabric, and metal.

Grand Plaza's cafes are the perfect choice for "coffee breaks" - from morning cappuccino to afternoon tea and pre-dinner cocktails - while enjoying live entertainment. In the evenings, Grand Plaza transforms into the ship's social hub with live music performances.

During the day, "Le Grand Bistro" (in the Atrium on Deck 4) operates as a patisserie and cafeteria serving French cuisine. In the evenings, Le Grand Bistro transforms into "Le Petit Chef" - a new dining-entertainment concept via an exclusive partnership with TableMation Studios (US multimedia company) and Skullmapping (a 2010-founded collective of filmmakers and visual artists). The dinner experience includes visual mapping technology with animated 3D characters projected (from above) onto tables and on plates. The VIP dining is at a fixed surcharge. It costs USD 25 pp (Le Grand Bistro) and USD 55 pp (Le Petit Chef). Ascent ship's Le Petit Chef features a new 4-course show (fairytale-style storytelling by the tiny chef who finds a magical cookbook with fanciful recipes.

Eden Lounge

Eden is a 3-deck high (aft-location on decks 4, 5, 6) lounge-bar-restaurant venue with live music and shows programming changing throughout the day. Eden Lounge measures 10439 m3 (368640 ft3) and covers a total area of 1175 m2 (12650 ft2).

The lounge has an outward-facing design and combines a signature gastronomic experience (light lunch, 5-course dinner, wine tastings) with live performances, daily lectures, promo events. The lounge has alfresco dining areas on both sides. In the evening, the lounge transforms into "Eve at Eden", with more provocative entertainment (fusion of performance art, dining, and nightlife.

An exclusive for Celebrity's Ascent ship show presented at the Eden Lounge is "Smoke & Ivories" (themed on Hollywood's old-time clubs).

The Eden Restaurant is part of the lounge. The Eden Bar serves food and drinks including hand-crafted cocktails.

The lounge's 90-m / 295 ft long ramp envelops the entire space and provides panoramic views. The lounge's unconventional furniture and interiors are designed by Patricia Urquiola (Spain). She also designed the lounge's "Library of Plants" (living garden) and the hanging plant pillars. Lounge's designer is Scott Butler (Wilson Butler Architects, Boston MA). The evening show programming is by Variety Worldwide (NYC New York).

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ships - Eden Lounge

"The Meeting Place" is named the ship's Conference Center (sized 183 m2 / 1970 ft2). This large meeting room is designed by Wilson Butler Architects (Boston MA) and provides advanced audio-visual equipment, varied seating arrangements, private office (event planning space), as well as mobile bars (for food and beverages) and a fully equipped pantry.

Magic Carpet ("outdoor elevator lounge")

A unique feature of the Celebrity Cruises EDGE-class ships is the "Magic Carpet" - a glass structure (glass-roofed, cantilevered platform) the size of a tennis court, able to traverse 14 stories, like a large elevator.

Mounted on the ship's starboard side, the open-air Magic Carpet offers stunning ocean views, comfortable seating, full bar, a stage for live music performances, This "traveling venue" changes its theme, function, and location by extending from Deck 2 up to Deck 16.

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ships Magic Carpet

Passengers can't simply ride on the Magic Carpet (using it as an elevator). In each location, the "moving lounge" is safely locked, then guests are allowed to step onboard. While repositioning, the venue is without any passengers. Some of its furniture is fixed.

The structure repositions and transforms into a new venue depending on which deck is locked.

  • When positioned on Deck 16 (above pool deck), it becomes a specialty restaurant offering the unique "Dinner on the Edge" alfresco dining under the stars.
  • When positioned on Resort Deck 14 (in front of the cabanas), it becomes an extension of the pool deck area, also offering live music performances.
  • When positioned on Dining Deck 5, it becomes a specialty restaurant - alfresco dining appendix to the ship's main dining room restaurant.
  • When positioned on Tendering Deck 2, it becomes an extension of the Destination Gateway (embarkation station serving the ship's tender operations). Destination Gateway boarding area is dedicated to the so-called "Edge Launches" - luxurious passenger tendering ashore, providing seamless embarkation and disembarkation in all ports of call along the cruise itinerary. This spacious area is fitted with large LCD screens (displaying destination, itinerary and port highlights), comfortable seating (capacity 130 seats), air-conditioning.

"Destination Getaway" is a dedicated embarkation point when the platform is positioned at its lowest level (Tendering Deck 2).

Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ships - Magic Carpet - Destination Getaway

Magic Carpet's repositioning schedule is published daily.

Itineraries

Celebrity Ascent ship's inaugural cruise itinerary program (deployment, homeports, destinations) was announced in February 2022. The official Maiden Voyage is currently scheduled for December 3, 2023. The 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary leaving roundtrip from homeport Fort Lauderdale/Port Everglades (Florida USA) visits Philipsburg (St Maarten) , Charlotte Amalie (St Thomas USVI) , Puerto Plata (Dominicana) .

However, unofficially, Celebrity Cruises started with Ascent revenue operations on November 22nd (4day Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Cozumel Mexico). Another "pre-inaugural" sailing was the 3-day "Bahamas Getaway" (Nov 26th, visiting Nassau).

Eastern Caribbean itineraries visit Puerto Rico (San Juan), BVI (Tortola) and St Kitts (Basseterre). Western Caribbean itineraries visit Bahamas (Nassau), Mexico (Cozumel) and Grand Cayman (George Town).

Actually, Celebrity Ascent starts passenger shipping operations in November 2023. In mid-March 2023 were added two "preview cruises" (both roundtrips from Port Everglades) scheduled to depart on Nov 22nd (4-night Western Caribbean/to Cozumel) and on Nov 26th (3-night Bahamas/to Nassau).

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Other Celebrity Cruises cruise ships

  • Celebrity Apex
  • Celebrity Beyond
  • Celebrity Constellation
  • Celebrity Eclipse
  • Celebrity Edge
  • Celebrity Equinox
  • Celebrity Flora
  • Celebrity Infinity
  • Celebrity Millennium
  • Celebrity Reflection
  • Celebrity Silhouette
  • Celebrity Solstice
  • Celebrity Summit
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  • Celebrity Xpedition
  • Celebrity Xploration

Celebrity Ascent Wiki

EDGE-Class ships were designed via an exclusive partnership with Nate Berkus - US interior designer establishing his own company at the age of 24.

On November 17, 2021, officially started the vessel's construction (STX France yard number/hull M34) with the steel-cutting ceremony held at Chantiers de l'Atlantique Shipyard (fka STX France) in St Nazaire France . The ceremony was attended by Richard Fain (RCG-Royal Caribbean Group's/shipowner's Chairman and CEO), Lisa Lutoff-Perlo (Celebrity Cruises' President and CEO), Laurent Castaing (Shipyard's General Manager).

Celebrity Cruises EDGE-class ship

The vessel's physical construction started on August 24, 2022, with the keel-laying ceremony held at Chantiers de l'Atlantique. The special event was attended by Jason Liberty (RCG's new President and CEO), Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, and Laurent Castaing (STX France's President).

On April 11, 2019, the shipowner RCG signed an MoU agreement with Chantiers de l'Atlantique for a 5th EDGE-class unit ( Xcel ) which is currently scheduled for delivery in 2025-Q4.

The Celebrity ship Ascent was launched/floated out from drydock on January 21, 2023. The ceremony was attended by Lisa Lutoff-Perlo and Laurent Castaing. On January 25th, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo announced that the Ascent ship's Masters will be two Piraeus-born brothers - Captain Dimitrios Kafetzis (with Celebrity since 1990) and Captain Tasos Kafetzis (with Celebrity since 1998) - alternating their time on the liner in a 3-months rotation.

In August 2023 were announced the names of the ship's godparents/two godmothers - Captain Sandy Yawn, and her sister Michelle Dunham, who, curiously, are the wives of the ship's brother captains Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis. Captain Sandra "Sandy" Yawn (1965 -born) was among the cast members of Bravo TV's reality series "Below Deck Mediterranean" (released in 2016) and participated in seasons 2-Sirocco, 3-Talisman Maiton, 4-Sirocco, 5-The Wellington, 6-Lady Michelle, and 7-Home. Michelle Dunham (1970-born) is the co-founder of JSA/Jacksonville School for Autism (2005-established in Jacksonville, Florida USA not-for-profit private school).

The 4-day sea trials (in the Bay of Biscay) were conducted in the period September 27-30, 2023. The vessel was officially delivered on November 8th. The delivery documents were signed by Jason Liberty (RCG/shipowner), Laura Hodges Bethge (Celebrity Cruises' new President/operator) and Laurent Castaing (shipbuilder).

Celebrity Ascent's christening ceremony was on December 1st (2023), held at Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale . The naming event was led by both godmothers and attended by Laura Hodges Bethge.

Inaugural itineraries 2023

Celebrity opened Ascent ship's cruises for booking in February 2022, all based on homeporting in Port Everglades (Florida USA) .

In mid-March 2023, Celebrity added two new "preview cruises" on Ascent scheduled for November 2023 (both roundtrips from Port Everglades) - 4-night Western Caribbean (Nov 22nd, to Cozumel) and 3-night Bahamas getaway (Nov 26th/to Nassau).

The next tables show the Maiden Voyage and the inaugural cruise itineraries by region/destination.

( MAIDEN VOYAGE 2023 ) 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" itinerary (prices from USD 1400 pp)

inaugural 7-day "Bahamas, Mexico and, Grand Cayman" itinerary

inaugural 7-day "San Juan, Tortola, and St Kitts" itinerary

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Celebrity Ascent First Look: Review, Tour, & Should You Sail?

Note: Cruzely was invited for a complimentary inaugural cruise aboard the new Celebrity Ascent. Below are our thoughts about the new ship from Celebrity.

Celebrity Ascent from the ocean

For those that have sailed across multiple cruise lines, you know that each line — and each ship — has its own unique personality. In other words, no matter how many different cruises you take, there’s always something that’s new to experience. We were reminded of this on our recent inaugural cruise aboard Celebrity Ascent.

Celebrity Ascent marks the fourth in the cruise line’s ground-breaking Edge class of ships (or “Edge series” as Celebrity calls them). And while we’ve sailed on nearly every major cruise line (including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, NCL, Virgin, Princess), one major line we had yet to experience was Celebrity. Turns out that their newest ship makes us feel like we’ve made a big mistake waiting this long to sail.

Meet: Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity Ascent view from side

For those not yet familiar with Celebrity, it’s part of Royal Caribbean Group’s portfolio of cruise lines. Aimed at a more upscale experience, you can think of it in car terms to get an idea of its positioning in the market.

Just like Toyota has the upscale Lexus brand, Royal Caribbean offers the elevated Celebrity brand. But this is much different than just a “nicer” Royal Caribbean cruise ship. It’s something completely different with a different atmosphere, feel, and philosophy. It’s much more geared toward adults (though kids are welcomed!) instead of focused on everyone.

Celebrity went a new direction with its Edge class of ships, beginning with Celebrity Edge that first sailed in late 2018. Now the cruise line introduces Celebrity Ascent, the latest in the class (along with Edge, Apex, and Beyond).

If you have sailed these sister ships before, then you have a good idea of what Ascent can offer passengers. If you haven’t, or haven’t sailed Celebrity at all, then you don’t know what you’re missing.

First Impressions of the Ship

Pool area on Celebrity Ascent

Boarding at Terminal 25 in Fort Lauderdale, Ascent makes a strong first impression. You enter near the Grand Plaza — a multi-story atrium centered around The Martini Bar. This is definitely a hotspot for the ship and during the evenings it gets busy. But it’s also a great initial introduction to the style and atmosphere of the ship.

You’ll notice the distinct asymmetrical shape of the space and bar. There are no wood tones or heavy chrome accents. The spot oozes with contemporary style. It’s wide, open, and airy. This isn’t meant to be a nice cruise ship… it’s built to be a nice resort.

In fact, walking around the ship when boarding, our first thought was if you took a spa and used that as inspiration for a ship’s design. The colors are calming. The lighting is always perfect. Even the music is a relaxing mix that provides some white noise to the ship without being intrusive.

But what really caught our attention is the space around the ship. First, it should be noted that the inaugural sailing we attended was only about two-thirds full. Even imagining most spaces with a full capacity ship still left plenty of space for everyone (the one exception is The Martini Bar area in the Grand Plaza that got very busy during the evenings).

This makes sense as based on tonnage versus passengers carried, Ascent has a space ratio of 43.1 at 100% occupancy . Anything above 40 should be considered reasonably spacious.

Buffet area on Ascent.

More than that, however, there was obviously a lot of thought put into building a ship that feels spacious everywhere. Hallways around the ship are wider, from the cabin hallways to those around the interior areas of the ship. There are also lots of spots from the Solarium to the Grand Plaza to the ship’s theater that cover multiple decks. The result makes for long sightlines and an airy feeling.

This trend even goes to the cabin doorways, which seem the width of a regular door at home instead of the relatively narrow cabin doors found on most ships.

In other words, if your biggest complaint about cruising is that it’s too crowded, this is the ship for you.

A Look Onboard

It’s hard to overstate just how nice Celebrity Ascent is unless you’ve sailed it or one of its sister ships (which are said to be similar). While pictures don’t do it justice, we have highlighted some spots with details about what to expect and some images to give you an idea.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Grand Plaza The spot to be in the evening, the Grand Plaza is a center atrium on the ship. There’s seating around the edge, bartenders that do fancy acrobatics while they mix drinks, restaurants lining the decks on both sides, and a massive light fixture in the middle.

During the evening live music is played and there’s no better spot to enjoy a fun evening out with your traveling partner.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

The Theater The Theater on Ascent is a massive circular room with a stage in the middle. Five movable video boards provide backdrops while parts of the stage can raise and lower. A center section in the ceiling allows performers to drop from the roof while the lighting and sound features are world class.

The result are visually stunning shows that have to be seen to be believed.

The Retreat on Celebrity Ascent

The Retreat Like some other lines, Celebrity has their own “resort within a resort” that features higher-end rooms. Along with nice rooms is a lounge area and outdoor pool/sundeck that is only available to these guests. There is also a private restaurant for passengers in The Retreat.

Adults-only solarium

Pool Area/Solarium If you want to be by the pool, you have two main options. First is the general pool deck that features a large pool, some great artwork (we love the chrome octopus), and twin hot tubs that sit up over the deck like flower blooms.

The Solarium is an amazing space that spans multiple decks with a domed ceiling. The atmosphere is calm and serene with lots of seating, its own pool and twin hot tubs.

Rooftop Garden on Celebrity Ascent

Rooftop Garden One feature of the Edge series ships and continued on Ascent is the Rooftop Garden. This is an open space on the top deck that features seating and open space in a park-like atmosphere. There are pools nearby, but it’s more of just a relaxing spot where you can enjoy the company of who you’re traveling with. There is also a large screen that features sporting events, yoga classes during the day, and more.

Eden overview on Ascent

Eden Another signature space in the class that’s aboard Ascent is Eden. It’s hard to describe the area as it’s somewhere to be entertained, to grab a bite to eat, or to just lounge. It’s multiple stories with lots of natural light and located aft of the ship with great outdoor views. During the day it’s relaxed and a great place to unwind. During the evening the crew puts on performances, and there’s also a high-end restaurant.

Cabins on Ascent

celebrity cruises ascent ship

No matter how you want to travel, there’s a cabin that will fit. And one nice thing is that they are all nicely appointed and comfortable. The theme of space continues throughout the available staterooms. If you’re used to cramped cabins, that’s not the case here.

We mentioned more space in the doorways, but there’s simply more space everywhere. Even interior cabins feel comfy (though certainly not large, but larger than many we’ve seen).

One feature that’s different on Celebrity is the use of “infinite” balconies, although the cruise line calls them “infinite verandas.” Typically, balcony rooms have a door that leads out to a balcony that juts out the side of the ship.

With these infinite balconies, instead the far wall of the cabin is one large window. Press a button and the top half of the window slides down, essentially making the entire room a balcony. There are still bi-fold doors that can be opened and closed to separate a balcony area and a blackout shade that closes the area for sleeping.

Infinite balcony on Celebrity

The Retreat should also be mentioned. This is a section of suites aboard Ascent that feature access to a private restaurant, a private lounge, and sundeck. As well, you have more dedicated services, and the rooms also come with premium drinks and wi-fi.

Entertainment on the Ship

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Perhaps one of the biggest misnomers when it comes to cruising is the idea that you have “hokey” entertainment with performers that couldn’t cut it anywhere else. Anyone who thinks that obviously hasn’t sailed a modern cruise ship, much less on Celebrity Ascent.

There are a number of entertainment options around the ship with everything from live music to performances in Eden. But two spots stand out as unique to this class.

First is a spot called The Club . It’s a multi-story spot, that like Eden, serves a lot of different roles. During the day, it’s a place to hang out and play games. This includes some video games, and what Celebrity calls “augmented” games that are essentially video games projected on the floor that you play with your body.

At night, it changes into more of a lounge with live music and shows, including “Smoke and Ivories” — a cabaret-style show that’s above and beyond. No matter the time of day, there will be something to do here.

Theater view on Celebrity Ascent.

But the star of the entertainment lineup is The Theater . We’ve been at sea across dozens of ships and never seen anything like it.

Instead of a traditional theater setup, Ascent features a round room with a circular stage in the middle. That alone provides more dynamic and visually interesting views, but it’s just the start. Around the back of the stage are five floor-to-ceiling screens that can also move and slide around the stage. During the shows, the visual backdrops are simply stunning, providing an amazing backdrop that just can’t be replicated with a traditional set.

In addition there are stage segments that rise and fall, a spot in the center of the ceiling where acrobats drop and swing, lights extraordinaire and so much more. Of course, all this speaks nothing of the talent of the performers themselves, who are world class.

We watched two shows (Bridges and Awaken) during our time on the ship and would not hesitate to watch them again. If you sail, consider the theater shows a “can’t-miss.”

Food Options Aboard Celebrity Ascent

Shrimp dish onboard the ship

Food is a major part of any cruise and that stays true for Celebrity Ascent. All told there are more than a dozen restaurants around the ship. In general, the food and restaurants tend to be more elevated. If you’re really into high-end food, you’re in luck. We will say that those with simpler tastes do have options, but you will need to look around a little more.

Free spots to eat include the Oceanview  Café , which is the ship’s large buffet with more space than we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. It serves everything from pizza to lobster tails on the last day of the cruise. There is a small café in Eden with salad and sandwiches and light fare at the Spa  Café . You can grab a burger or sandwich at the Mast Grill if you just want something easy.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

For dinner there are four main dining restaurants that are included in the fare. Each one of these ( Cyprus, Tuscan, Normandie, and Cosmopolitan ) has the same menu but has a special section of appetizers and entrees section that’s unique from the other restaurants for more variety.

You could definitely eat during your cruise without spending extra, but it will limit your options on Ascent. There are a large number of specialty restaurants and most focus on an elevated experience. This includes:

  • Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud
  • Rooftop Garden Grill
  • Le Grand Bistro
  • Le Petit Chef
  • Fine Cut Steakhouse

In addition, there are two restaurants Blu and Luminae that are exclusive to passengers staying in AquaClass cabins and The Retreat, respectively.

What We Liked

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Overall we were extremely impressed from bow to stern with Celebrity. It is definitely a different experience if you’ve sailed larger mass market lines including sister line Royal Caribbean. Overall, it simply feels more stylish, classy, and sophisticated. You feel much more that you are at a resort than a cruise ship.

We were big fans of the décor and style of the ship. It simply felt modern, with lots of nice touches like calm music and great art pieces around the ship.

But honestly we’ve been on nicely appointed cruise ships before. So what really stood out was how the ship’s design felt so open and spacious. This is mentioned above, but from small touches like wider cabin doorways to big open rooms like the Solarium and theater, you never get that cramped feeling like on most ships.

We also have to give special mention to the large production shows. The ship’s theater is simply a technological marvel that you have to see. The shows that are on board also take full advantage of the technology to offer something to see that’s stunning.

What We Didn’t Like

We found it hard to find fault with much of anything aboard Celebrity Ascent. But if we had to find something, we will mention that a late-night party on the pool deck could be heard in our cabin on deck 10 until close to 1 a.m. If you are a light sleeper, it could keep you up. Surprisingly, we asked some other passengers staying on our deck if they heard it and they did not. It could have just been our specific location on the ship.

And while we know that a cruise line like Celebrity is going to have some fancier dining, our personal tastes are fairly basic. We like to try new dishes, but not every meal. Having a few more “comfort food” items easily available would have been nice, but this was far from a deal breaker.

Should You Sail Celebrity Ascent?

So what’s the final takeaway? Let’s say that if you have an upcoming cruise on Ascent then we’re not just confident that you’ll enjoy the ship, we are jealous that you’re getting to sail . This was our first-ever cruise aboard Celebrity and it definitely left us impressed.

Now, we will say it won’t be for everyone. If you are a family sailing with kids, it might not be the right ship. Kids are welcome and there is a kids area for them to play while parents enjoy. Outside of that, however, there isn’t a ton — especially on the pool deck. Kids won’t have a bad time, but other lines and ships would be better.

However, those wanting a more sophisticated cruise — think a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a cruise passenger who appreciates luxury — will find Ascent to be a perfect fit. And while the price tag is generally higher than other mass market lines, in our opinion it would be worth it.

More Photos of Celebrity Ascent

While we discussed a lot about the ship, there are some spots that we think are worth seeing that we didn’t get a chance to mention.

celebrity cruises ascent ship

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I also sailed this weekend. You have written an excellent truthful review! You didn’t mention the SUNSET BAR designed by Nate Berkus of HGTV. I thought the multi leveled bar was great to watch the sunset and meet fellow cruisers. The Moroccan/Mediterranean design made you think in Spain!

You’re right. I passed through there but with so little time, I didn’t get a chance to sit and relax/enjoy it! I could have happily spend another week onboard.

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Why You Should Book A Trip On The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship

Marguerite "Peggy" Cleveland Avatar

Marguerite “Peggy” Cleveland

The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship - View of the side of the Celebrity Ascent cruise ship from the ship’s bridge.

The writer was hosted.

Wow! The Celebrity Ascent cruise ship is just gorgeous. It is the fourth ship in Celebrity’s Edge series and can accommodate up to 3,260 passengers. It is registered in Malta. The Celebrity Ascent will begin its inaugural season with itineraries cruising to ports in the Caribbean and the Bahamas from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Plus it has just received the prestigious  Forbes Travel Guide  (“FTG”) Star Award in recognition of its innovative design and guest-centric service. Here’s what you need to know about this luxury cruise ship.

The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship - Awakenings, the new production show aboard the Celebrity Ascent is a multi-media experience with music, smoke, and strobe lights.

What Is Different On The Celebrity Ascent?

The Celebrity Ascent  has all the best features of the Edge class ships with some redesigned spaces, new entertainment, and some dining changes. It is similar to its sister ship, the Celebrity Beyond.

Here are the highlights of what is new and different on the Celebrity Ascent.

Onboard is a new space called “The Annex.” This is a private room that can be booked for up to 15 people. The versatile space can be used for karaoke, movie screenings, and a game room.

Themed dining is available as well. The Annex can work well for business or family trips. I can imagine it for birthday parties, family reunions, girl’s trips, and so much more.

Dining Changes on the Celebrity Ascent

  • Le Voyage  has been redesigned. This is the signature restaurant of Chef Daniel Boulud, Celebrity’s Global Culinary Ambassador. As the name suggests, the cuisine is inspired by world travel,
  •  The fabulous Eden  restaurant now offers a new vegan-tasting menu.
  •   Blu , the restaurant for Aqua Class guests, now has a beautiful outdoor terrace for al fresco dining,
  •   Le Petit Chef has a new animated storyline with food pairings.

New Entertainment On Board The Celebrity Ascent

  • Shine the Night  – Pack your best metallic wardrobe for this themed event with live music, a DJ, entertainment, and more.
  • 3 new production shows , and new nighttime shows in Eden, live music events in The Club, and throughout the ship.
  •   A new gaming experience  where guests’ bodies serve as the controller. With a retro 80s theme, this augmented multiplayer game is sure to delight young and old alike

Design Changes

The casino, the Art Gallery, and Cosmopolitan, a main dining venue, all have a new look

Read More: What to Bring on a Cruise (and What to Leave Behind!)

The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship - The gorgeous Edge Villa suites with floor-to-ceiling windows with indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Retreat On The Celebrity Ascent

The retreat.

This over-the-top enclave is reserved exclusively for guests staying in suites. Many luxury cruises take place on much smaller ships than the Celebrity Ascent. I think the Retreat is a game changer. It offers luxury market guests a high-end experience in a boutique space yet they can enjoy the amenities that a larger cruise ship offers.

The Retreat provides a peaceful oasis for guests to relax and enjoy a premium experience with outstanding service.

Retreat Suites

The Retreat on the Celebrity Ascent offers a variety of suite sizes.

The Iconic Suite , the largest and most opulent suite, books at a price point between $50k – $70K. This is not in my budget so I was very excited to have the opportunity to tour all of the suite types aboard the Celebrity Ascent. The amenities in this luxury enclave make it worth the price.

Sky Suites  book at a much lower price point and have access to all the amenities of the Retreat.

The Edge Villa is my favorite. These two-story suites are exclusive to the Edge series ships. It feels more like a luxury villa than a ship’s cabin with two stories and floor-to-ceiling windows. The indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly blend with stunning views of the ocean and ports, especially when cruising Europe and the Mediterranean.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  These are the only suites that are actually in the Retreat enclave. From Deck 15 and 16, the villas can access the Retreat Lounge, the lower Retreat sundeck, and Luminae, the Retreat restaurant.

Luminae is reserved for guests staying in the Retreat suites. What an incredible experience! Luminae was designed by the award-winning Kelly Hoppen, CBE and it is so elegant. The dark woods of the walls are lightened up with magenta-colored seating and silver accents. The service and food are equally outstanding.

My meal started with an amuse-bouche, which I love. It is so nice when the chef sends out a surprise to start the meal. I enjoyed a Roasted Pork Belly with Anise-Carrot Puree and Balsamic Glazed Beets topped with a Chicarrone on top. It was a great start to this outstanding meal.

I had the Turbot for an entree and it was served with leeks and fennel croquette all atop a sauce with Pernod. So tasty!

I am a dessert gal and Luminae did not disappoint. Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud’s Chocolate Pill ranks in my top desserts ever. A milk chocolate filling shaped like a pill sat on a thin wafer slathered with praline and then covered with dark chocolate. Garnish included gold leaf. A visual delight as well as being so tasty. I ate every bite.

I stayed in a Concierge Class Stateroom with an Infinity Veranda .

Retreat Lounge and Deck

The Retreat Lounge is a relaxing reprieve from the outside world. Drop in for light gourmet bites and beverages throughout the day or events such as afternoon tea. There is a dedicated concierge to make all your arrangements both on and off the ship. Another beautiful design by Kelly Hoppen, CBE who created a relaxing space enhanced by the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The Retreat Deck offers plenty of outdoor space on two floors. Enjoy cocktails served poolside and two hot tubs. Kick back in a cabana or one of the chic seating areas. The Retreat Bar has a fun, beach vibe. This is a beautiful oasis and private from the rest of the Celebrity Ascent.

The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship - Chefs use tweezers to place garnish on a tasting sample of Pan Roasted Carabinero Shrimp.

Dining On The Celebrity Ascent

The Celebrity Ascent cruise ship has a mind-boggling 32 food and beverage venues. This includes 14 cafes, bars, and lounges; 8 specialty restaurants; 4 main dining rooms; 4 casual dining venues; and 2 exclusive restaurants (one for AquaClass guests and one for Retreat guests).

Between this cruise and a previous one on the Celebrity Beyond, another Edge Class cruise ship , I have eaten at just about all of them. Here are a few of my favorites.

Eden is my top choice of all the restaurants on the ship. I love the open kitchen concept and I was fascinated with the attention to detail in the garnishing and plating of all the dishes. A meal here is a culinary journey with innovative dishes and an emphasis on fresh and unique ingredients.

An example is the Pan Roasted Carabinero Shrimp with melted peppers, chorizo, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. This dish uses Carabineros, the most coveted prawns in the world. These large prawns are renowned for their jumbo size and bright red color.

I ate at Eden on the Celebrity Beyond and on the Ascent I attended a cooking demonstration where I learned what goes into creating these unique dishes.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  Eden now has a new plant-based tasting menu so those on a specialized diet can have an upscale dining experience.

Rooftop Garden Grill

I just love the Rooftop Garden on the Celebrity Ascent. It is such a beautiful space.

Before dinner, head to the Sunset Bar designed by Nate Berkus, designer to the stars. Located in the back of the ship on Deck 14, the views are stunning. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail and a sunset before heading to the adjacent Rooftop Garden Grill for dinner.

I enjoy the more casual al fresco vibe while still enjoying a high-end meal. The cuisine is American-style barbeque with a variety of meat and seafood options that are served either smoked or grilled. If the weather is nice, enjoy a movie under the stars after dinner.

The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship - The Magic carpet is a lounge space that extends from the side of the Celebrity Ascent.

The Magic Carpet

The Magic Carpet is a unique place to enjoy a cocktail. The venue seats around 90 and is very versatile – it can be moved up or down the side of the ship. Throughout a cruise, guests will see it used in many different ways.

Dinner on the Edge is an over-the-top tasting experience that is on my list to do. Alas, it wasn’t available on my cruise. Keep an eye out for it when you book a cruise on Celebrity. It is very popular and is usually only offered once during a cruise. Reservations are a must and it sells out. If you miss out, you can still enjoy a cocktail with beautiful ocean views.

The New Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship - A computer-generated rendering of the Celebrity Ascent

Itinerary Options

There is so much to see and do on the new Celebrity Ascent cruise ship that guests will need at least a week-long cruise and an itinerary with a few days at sea to explore it all.

And the Celebrity Ascent has an exciting lineup of cruises throughout 2024. First-time cruisers might be overwhelmed by all the options, so a travel agent is a good idea to help book your first cruise.

The Celebrity Ascent cruise ship will begin its inaugural season cruising both the Western and Eastern Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Mexico with a variety of itineraries roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Ports of call on the different itineraries include Nassau, Bahamas, Cozumel, Mexico, George Town, Grand Cayman, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tortola, BVI, Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis, Bimini, Bahamas, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, Philipsburg, St. Maarten. This is a nice variety of familiar ports as well as lesser-known ones. Experienced cruisers will be able to visit something new to them.

In the spring, the Celebrity Ascent moves to Europe with cruises departing from Barcelona, Spain; Rome, Italy; and Athens, Greece. Ports of Call include Valencia, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Portofino, Italy; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Provence (Marseille), France; Santa Margherita, Italy; Naples, Italy; Mykonos, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi) Turkey; Santorini, Greece; and Ajaccio, Corsica.

A Mediterranean cruise is on my bucket list. I love the idea of boarding the ship and unpacking once before exploring some of these fabulous places.

Book a Veranda Cabin

Booking a Veranda cabin or stateroom is well worth the cost when cruising through such scenic waters and ports. I especially love the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda. The veranda is part of the stateroom with full walls on either side giving guests privacy from the adjoining rooms.

The floor-to-ceiling window converts to a veranda with the touch of a button. I am a huge fan of this technology, which increases the value of this cabin by increasing the square footage of the room by making the veranda part of the room.

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celebrity cruises ascent ship

Inside Ascent: 3 takeaways from Celebrity Cruises' new ship

celebrity cruises ascent ship

As I walked to dinner on Celebrity Cruises’ new ship, Ascent, I found myself at what I thought was a dead-end. The vessel’s expansive fifth deck shrunk to a narrow hallway with infinity mirrors and polished steel sculptures that seemed to indicate I’d taken a wrong turn.

But I soon realized the installation from art and design studio Fredrikson Stallard, named Aurora, also served a practical function. I walked through the mesmerizing space, which features 1,600 lights in a “digital interpretation” of the aurora borealis according to a placard at the entrance and exited closer to the restaurant.

The way Ascent immerses guests in its artwork was among several features that stood out during a two-night sailing earlier this month. And while the ship has a lot in common with previous Edge Series vessels, there are some new twists. Here are three takeaways.

1. The ship is artfully designed

Many other spaces on Ascent incorporate sculptures and paintings, and often feel like works of art themselves thanks to striking design features.

On Deck 14, for example, tall narrow archways lead guests to the ship’s Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform on the side of Celebrity’s Edge Series ships that offers sweeping views (the platform can also move up and down the vessel).

Around the corner,  a giant metallic octopus (given the pet name Ocho by the crew) stands watch over the pool. And a tiered LED chandelier hanging above the Martini Bar is the star of the ship’s three-deck Grand Plaza.

The attention to detail extends to the accommodations, perhaps no more evident than in the two-bedroom, two-bathroom Iconic Suite, which has floor-to-ceiling windows, a nearly 700-square-foot terrace with a hot tub and a butler’s pantry. The room is in The Retreat, Celebrity’s all-suite category that gives guests access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck, among other perks.

Prices for the suite vary by itinerary, travel dates, and other factors, but the suite currently starts at an average of $21,425 per person for a seven-night cruise to the Bahamas, Mexico, and Grand Cayman, departing in March 2024 from Fort Lauderdale.

But no matter where you are on the ship, Ascent puts a premium on relaxation: There is ample seating all over the vessel, from poolside loungers to plush chairs by the window at Café al Bacio.

2. The food is elevated

Ascent’s 32 restaurants, bars and lounges showcase Celebrity’s focus on its culinary program, both at included venues like Oceanview Café – which feels like part buffet, part food hall, with soaring ceilings and a variety of international cuisine – and its specialty restaurants.

Eden Restaurant, located in a three-level space that also hosts shows, offers a mix of dishes like Aegean Sea ceviche; Nova Scotia lobster casserole; and oven-roasted chicken (I ordered the chicken at dinner, which came with duck fat potatoes, mushrooms, daikon leaves, fennel salad, pickled mustard and chicken apricot roasting jus).

The line’s more intimate Le Voyage restaurant from chef and Celebrity’s Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud was redesigned for the ship with a cream and gold color scheme, hand-embroidered leather wall art and a marble entrance. The venue can accommodate around 60 people – including its six-guest private room – and features dishes inspired by travel like tamarind and peanut-crusted prawns and Brazilian moqueca.

Both restaurants also feature tasting menus, including a plant-based menu at Eden.

3. There is a private game room

Ascent features The Annex, a new space where guests can play sports like golf on a virtual simulator, watch movies and sing karaoke (there were even earplugs on the tables when I went, just in case).

Guests can choose from various packages ranging from $150 to $375 for up to 10 people, depending on their selection and when they use the space. They can also add up to five additional guests for $35 each.

On the nearly 3,300-passenger ship, The Annex serves as a private playroom.

'Come and go as you please': Here's how overnight cruise stops work

Every package includes soda, water and food from the onboard pub Craft Social, and some include alcohol (guests’ beverage packages also apply).

Overall, Ascent provides passengers a modern, elegant home base for their travels. And don’t be afraid to get lost onboard – you might just stumble upon something beautiful.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Celebrity Ascent

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More space. More luxury. More connected. Celebrity Ascent℠

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Exclusive to guests of The Retreat, including a private restaurant, sundeck, lounge & more.

Accommodations

Celebrity Ascent offers the widest range of staterooms and suites in our fleet.

Explore 32 distinct restaurants, bars, and lounges that will awaken all your senses.

Spa & Fitness

Whether you want to clear your mind, fine-tune your body, reinvigorate your spirit—or all of the above—The Spa and Fitness Center is an indulgent escape where you can do it all.

Our onboard activities and entertainment will make your vacation an unforgettable adventure.

Accessibility

Every effort is taken to deliver easy ship access and an unrivaled cruise vacation for our guests.

Explore Ascent Deck Plans

Locate your stateroom, and our world-class amenities and venues throughout the ship.

Itineraries on Celebrity Ascent

Recommended Sailing

Starting From

Avg. Per Person

Preview Sailings

Nov 22, 2023 | 4-Night Western Caribbean

Nov 26, 2023 | 3-Night Bahamas

The Countdown to Celebrity Ascent Is On

Get ready with us as our team prepares for the arrival of Celebrity Ascent℠. The latest award-winning resort at sea, is our most innovative ship yet, featuring all the best of our Edge® Series.​

Catch up on episodes of our Get Ready With Us series below and stay tuned for more behind the scenes videos coming soon!

Introducing Celebrity Ascent℠ Co-godmothers

Celebrity Ascent℠ is the first ship to have two brothers as co-captains, and now it’s our first ship to have two sisters as co-godmothers.

We found the perfect pair for this honor in Captain Sandy Yawn, star of Bravo’s “Below Deck,” and her sister, Michelle Dunham. Captain Sandy is a tireless advocate for women in the maritime industry, children’s education, children with disabilities, and the environment, and she draws on her life experiences to inspire others.

Michelle, is the successful founder and executive director of a nonprofit school for children with autism. What started as a mission to help her own son with autism is now a beacon of hope within the broader autism community. These are two sisters on a mission to make a life impact for others in their pursuit to educate, engage and inspire.

Learn More About Ascent

Introducing our newest award-winning resort at sea, Celebrity Ascent SM , the fourth and most innovative ship in our highly awarded Edge® Series. Celebrity Ascent features 32 distinctive restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud. Ascent includes all the best of our Edge Series ships, from the inviting multi-deck Sunset Bar designed by Edge Series Travel Ambassador Nate Berkus to the open-air Rooftop Garden where two cantilevered floating pools offer breathtaking views six feet over the ship's edge. World-class accommodations include our spa-inspired AquaClass® staterooms, the revolutionary Infinite Veranda staterooms that take you to the water’s edge, and The Retreat®, featuring a private restaurant, lounge and sundeck for our suite guests. Book now to relax and renew on Celebrity Ascent.​

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Cruising Speed

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Celebrity Ascent

Things to do.

  • Itineraries

celebrity cruises ascent ship

Celebrity Ascent is a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Rated resort at sea.

Exclusive to guests of The Retreat, including a private restaurant, sundeck, lounge & more.

Accommodations

Celebrity Ascent offers the widest range of staterooms and suites in our fleet.

Explore 32 distinct restaurants, bars, and lounges that will awaken all your senses.

Spa & Fitness

Whether you want to clear your mind, fine-tune your body, reinvigorate your spirit—or all of the above—The Spa and Fitness Center is an indulgent escape where you can do it all.

Our onboard activities and entertainment will make your vacation an unforgettable adventure.

Accessibility

Every effort is taken to deliver easy ship access and an unrivaled cruise vacation for our guests.

Explore Ascent Deck Plans

Locate your stateroom, and our world-class amenities and venues throughout the ship.

Itineraries on Celebrity Ascent

Recommended Sailing

Starting From

Avg. Per Person

The Countdown to Celebrity Ascent

Catch up on episodes of our Get Ready With Us video series to see how our award-winning crew prepared for the arrival of our latest and most innovative Edge Series Ship. It all concluded with the most spectacular inaugural celebration at sea.

Introducing Celebrity Ascent℠ Co-godmothers

Celebrity Ascent℠ is the first ship to have two brothers as co-captains, and now it’s our first ship to have two sisters as co-godmothers.

We found the perfect pair for this honor in Captain Sandy Yawn, star of Bravo’s “Below Deck,” and her sister, Michelle Dunham. Captain Sandy is a tireless advocate for women in the maritime industry, children’s education, children with disabilities, and the environment, and she draws on her life experiences to inspire others.

Michelle, is the successful founder and executive director of a nonprofit school for children with autism. What started as a mission to help her own son with autism is now a beacon of hope within the broader autism community. These are two sisters on a mission to make a life impact for others in their pursuit to educate, engage and inspire.

Sign up and start planning your best vacation ever.

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Learn More About Ascent

Introducing our newest award-winning resort at sea, Celebrity Ascent SM , the fourth and most innovative ship in our highly awarded Edge® Series. Celebrity Ascent features 32 distinctive restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud. Ascent includes all the best of our Edge Series ships, from the inviting multi-deck Sunset Bar designed by Edge Series Travel Ambassador Nate Berkus to the open-air Rooftop Garden where two cantilevered floating pools offer breathtaking views six feet over the ship's edge. World-class accommodations include our spa-inspired AquaClass® staterooms, the revolutionary Infinite Veranda staterooms that take you to the water’s edge, and The Retreat®, featuring a private restaurant, lounge and sundeck for our suite guests. Book now to relax and renew on Celebrity Ascent.​

Double Occupancy

Cruising Speed

More space. More luxury. More connected. Celebrity Ascent℠

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Travel + Leisure

What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Here’s what you need to know about every Celebrity Cruises ship.

Celebrity Cruises is among our readers' favorite mega-ship ocean lines — coming in at No. 1 in 2022 and No. 2 in 2023 as part of our World's Best Awards (WBA) — and it's easy to see why. This WBA Hall of Fame honoree truly shines with its sophisticated, tasteful decor and sleek onboard spaces, including swanky lounges, dazzling bars, gourmet specialty restaurants, and contemporary suites. Almost all Celebrity ships, except the three Xpedition-class vessels, offer standard amenities like casinos, retail shops, spas, and Broadway-level shows and entertainment. There's also the adults-only Solarium and The Retreat, the latter of which is reserved exclusively for suite guests. Paul Brady , Travel + Leisure ’s news director and cruise expert, told us, “Because its ships offer so much to do, Celebrity is a fantastic choice for families, who can choose from a huge array of well-designed staterooms and suites. Groups of friends, too, will find much to like, thanks to the brand's fantastic dining (and drinking) options.”

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on all things cruise.

Kari Becker is a travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels.

With a fleet of 16 ships, it can be tricky to determine which Celebrity ship is best suited for your specific needs.Travel advisor Kari Becker of Marvelous Mouse Travels explains, "Whatever your taste, there is a perfect Celebrity cruise to meet your needs." She continues, telling T+L, "There are three main classes: the Edge, Solstice, and Millennium classes, all with unique features, benefits, and advantages." The Millennium-class ships are smaller which, per Becker, may "offer a more personalized experience." Solstice is the largest class of Celebrity's fleet, says Becker. "When designed, these ships focused on innovation, with unique spaces including a real grass lawn, and unique onboard experiences, such as glass-making classes." Last but not least is Celebrity's Edge class. Per the pro, the ships in the line's newest class are "the largest of the fleet, offering more space for additional experiences and restaurants, including a massive pool deck, floating platform at sea (aptly called the Magic Carpet), and Rooftop Garden." All in all, she says, "The Edge series is for guests looking for transformative cruising and splendor with countless gourmet restaurants and immersive entertainment." 

Ahead, we’ve listed every Celebrity ship currently in service — complete with their notable amenities, launch year, guest capacity, and other need-to-know insights — to help you determine which vessel is best for your next voyage.

Celebrity Ascent

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Edge 

Ship Capacity: 3,260 passengers

Celebrity’s newest ship is also its flashiest — in the best way possible. The Celebrity Ascent offers an expanded Retreat area (exclusive to suite guests), complete with a 40-percent-larger two-story sundeck, and the swanky Sunset Bar, which is 180 percent larger. Beyond The Retreat, there are 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, a lush Rooftop Garden, an adults-only Solarium, the three-level Eden restaurant and entertainment venue, and the Magic Carpet, a floating platform that reaches 13 stories above sea level. Finally, stay in one of the Iconic Suites, the largest in the Celebrity fleet, for the ultimate splurge. 

Celebrity Beyond

Inaugural Year: 2022

Celebrity Beyond is nearly identical to Celebrity Ascent . Both Edge-class sister ships have the same spectacular amenities and features, including a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center that’s sure to impress wellness-seekers, who will also be happy in one of the AquaClass Sky Suites, which offer in-room yoga mats and fitness equipment. It’s also worth noting that these suite guests also enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite and a dedicated spa concierge. Don’t miss the adults-only Solarium, the Rooftop Garden, the aforementioned Eden, or the Magic Carpet, which offers the best views at sea.

Paul Brady was onboard the Beyond in October 2022. “My stateroom, 9164, was a Sky Suite, with a king bed facing a private terrace and a clever roll-open mirror that let natural light into the spacious bathroom. Dining at the Daniel Boulud restaurant Le Voyage was one highlight — with seven courses — but so too were casual cocktails at Sunset Bar, with its touch of Moroccan design influence courtesy of Nate Berkus, who dreamed up the multi-level lounge,” said Brady of his experience.  

Celebrity Apex

Inaugural Year: 2020

Ship Capacity: 2,910 passengers

The second Edge-class ship, Celebrity Apex , made its grand debut in 2020. It boasts an abundance of stylish onboard spaces, including the Rooftop Garden and the adults-only Solarium. Access to the exclusive Retreat area is reason alone to book one of the contemporary suites. Other highlights include the dazzling three-story Grand Plaza, where you’ll find the aptly named Martini Bar, one of 29 bars, lounges, and restaurants aboard Apex , along with the orange-hued Magic Carpet, which offers live music and a full bar 13 feet above sea level.  

“I was fortunate to snag one of just a handful of Royal Suites on the ship, 12105, which had the look of a chic coastal Florida cottage, elevated with pops of bright green, geometric tiling, and contemporary art on the walls. The bathroom, with a deep soaking tub and spacious shower, rivaled any I’ve seen at land-based resorts,” said Brady of his November 2021 sailing. “Same with the Grand Plaza at the heart of the ship, a gathering place with a hotel lobby vibe in the best possible sense — and a glitzy Martini Bar.”

Celebrity Flora

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Xpedition 

Ship Capacity: 100 passengers

Cruise the Galapagos in style aboard Celebrity Flora , which made its maiden voyage in 2019. The vessel was designed with sustainability in mind: It's built with natural materials and features anchorless technology to protect the seabed. Certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park are on board to help guests gain a better understanding of the region for an educational trip. The ship also offers a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience, which includes dinner and drinks, a naturalist-guided stargazing session, accommodations in a cabana-turned-double bed, and a private breakfast. Plus, with its all-suite accommodations, the small ship has a mega-yacht feel.

Celebrity Edge

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 2,918 passengers

This sophisticated ship — the first in Celebrity’s Edge class — changed the game following its 2018 debut. What’s more, Edge was the very first Celebrity ship to feature the Magic Carpet, the multifunctional Eden, and the Infinite Veranda Staterooms, which, with the touch of a button, transform your living space into your very own private balcony.

Celebrity Reflection

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Solstice 

Ship Capacity: 3,046 passengers

The fifth, final, and largest Solstice-class cruise ship, Celebrity Reflection , will impress even the pickiest of travelers with its onboard activities, amenities, and spaces, including a total of 22 bars, restaurants, and lounges. In addition to The Retreat (reserved exclusively for suite guests) and The Solarium (adults-only), Reflection — along with all Solstice-class ships — boasts the Lawn Club. Located on the top deck of the ship, this chic outdoor space (which is outfitted with real grass, no less), is perfect for sipping cocktails, enjoying a leisurely lunch, listening to live music, lounging in a cabana, or playing a game of bocce or croquet. The adults-only Persian Garden area at the spa is a favorite amongst wellness enthusiasts.

Celebrity Silhouette

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 2,902 passengers

Celebrity Silhouette is elegant in every sense, from the aptly named Grand Foyer — with its marvelous marble floors, extravagant staircase (which is prime for photo opportunities), and the first panoramic oceanview glass elevators at sea — to stylish lounges like The Hideaway or the natural light-filled Sky Lounge. While suite guests gain exclusive access to The Retreat, anyone can relax in one of the swanky pool areas or the laid-back Lawn Club. Then, when hunger — or thirst — calls, passengers can take their pick of over 20 food and drink options.

Celebrity Eclipse

Inaugural Year: 2010

Ship Capacity: 2,852 passengers

An impressive modern art collection, an expansive spa, a half-acre lawn, and top-notch dining: Find all this and more aboard Celebrity Eclipse , which debuted in 2010. This Solstice-class vessel also boasts an onboard nightclub, popular among party-centric travelers, a striking Grand Foyer, and, last but not least, the Solstice Club. Located at the highest point of the ship, the Solstice Club is a haven for R&R with its canopy lounge beds — and it’s also a popular spot for morning yoga or evening stargazing sessions.

Related: 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Celebrity Equinox

Inaugural Year: 2009

Refurbished in 2019, Celebrity Equinox exudes cool. On board this stylish ship, guests can sip cocktails in style at one of several hip bars, including the Martini Bar and Slush, enjoy a picnic lunch or practice their golf swing at the half-acre Lawn Club, or soak up the sun at the adults-only Solarium or the plush lounge-lined pool area. Finally, guests should consider booking a suite to access Luminae, a swanky restaurant that serves decadent dishes designed by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud.

Celebrity Solstice

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Capacity:  2,852 passengers

The first ship in Celebrity’s Solstice class currently cruises Alaska and the Pacific Coast in style. Here, you’ll find the lush Lawn Club, the adults-only Persian Garden thermal suite, and the glam Grand Foyer. Additional highlights include the Solstice Deck, an onboard nightclub, and a slew of bars and lounges, including the wine-centric Cellar Masters, where oenophiles can learn about – and taste — a wide variety of vinos from across the globe. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Hot Glass Class, featuring professional-led glass-blowing demos.

Celebrity Xploration

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Xpedition

Ship Capacity: 16 passengers

With a passenger capacity of just 16, the Xploration is Celebrity’s smallest ship. As such, cruisers can expect an intimate onboard ambiance. When not out and about exploring the Galapagos, guests can hang in the lounge, relax in their suite (some with private balconies), and soak up some rays — or stargaze — on the hot tub-equipped sundeck.

Celebrity Constellation

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Class: Millennium 

Ship Capacity: 2,184 passengers

This 22-year-old Celebrity ship offers a more refined, subdued atmosphere compared to the line’s newer ships, which boast flashier features like the Magic Carpet. The Rooftop Terrace area serves as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor movie theater, complete with cozy furnishings coupled with mouthwatering bites and sips. Meanwhile, the adults-only Persian Garden area in the spa is ideal for wellness-seeking cruisers.

Celebrity Summit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,218 passengers

Celebrity Summit, which cruises Alaska and the Caribbean, technically dates back to 2001; however, in 2019, it received a $75-million refurbishment to bring it a little more in line with Celebrity’s newest ships, including 2018’s Celebrity Edge . Expect stylish spaces galore, including the Sunset and Martini bars, plus a sleek Rooftop Terrace where cruisers can catch outdoor flicks while basking in the ocean views.

Celebrity Xpedition

Ship Class: Xpedition  

Ship Capacity: 48 passengers

Last refurbished in 2018, Celebrity Xpedition was purposely built to cruise the Galapagos. The immersive onboard experience includes nightly lectures by certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park, who will be on board the entire sailing. Enjoy postcard-worthy views from the Panorama Deck, or take a dip in the hot tub on the Sunrise Deck. Passengers can choose from a handful of elegant rooms and suites; however, those who want their own balcony will need to spring on the latter.

Celebrity Infinity

Inaugural Year: 2000

Ship Capacity: 2,170 passengers

Celebrity Infinity is a favorite among laid-back cruisers — primarily couples and adult friend groups. Popular onboard hangout spots include the adults-only Solarium, the buzzy Rooftop Terrace, and, for suite guests, The Retreat. The ship also has a handful of specialty dining restaurants (in addition to complimentary ones, of course). Le Petit Chef is well worth the added fee thanks to a combination of gourmet eats and exhilarating entertainment complete with tabletop animations.

Celebrity Millennium

Inaugural Year: 1999

Ship Class: Millennium  

Don’t sleep on Celebrity’s oldest ship, which includes a handful of fan-favorite amenities and spaces such as The Retreat, the Solarium, the Rooftop Terrace, and the Grand Foyer. Last refurbished in 2019, Millennium now features a more contemporary design aesthetic, similar to what you’d find on the newer ships. There are also more than 15 bars and restaurants on board.

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We found the perfect pair for this honour in Captain Sandy Yawn, star of Bravo’s “Below Deck,” and her sister, Michelle Dunham. Captain Sandy is a tireless advocate for women in the maritime industry, children’s education, children with disabilities, and the environment, and she draws on her life experiences to inspire others.

Michelle, is the successful founder and executive director of a nonprofit school for children with autism. What started as a mission to help her own son with autism is now a beacon of hope within the broader autism community. These are two sisters on a mission to make a life impact for others in their pursuit to educate, engage and inspire.

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The ‘healthy’ cruise that wellness fans will love

Can you really stay fit and healthy on board, with booze and buffets at every turn cruise expert sue bryant puts her willpower to the test.

The midship deck of the Celebrity Ascent

B ack in the day, one of the (many) cruel jokes about cruising was that you’d board as a passenger and have to be winched off as freight. A five-pound weight gain over the course of a week was, and still is, quite common. Cruise ship food 30 years ago was generally rich, fatty and distressingly beige.

The old adage may still be true, not because the food is unhealthy but because there’s so much choice. What today’s more discerning cruise passenger expects is variety and that’s what’s on offer. This is, for many, a dietary downfall. “I’ll just pile my plate with salad. But look! A curry corner. Whoa! Pizza! Just a small ice cream …”

I’m on a mini cruise aboard Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship, the gleaming, 3,260-passenger Celebrity Ascent, which has a strong focus on wellness. Celebrity’s target market is millennials and Gen Xers like me — holidaymakers who are active, fit and choosy about what they eat. “Mental and physical wellness is hugely important to our guests,” says Celebrity UK’s vice president and managing director Giles Hawke. “Our research shows it, both in terms of eating and lifestyle. Our gyms are state of the art and the classes are really well attended. We’re seeing bigger take-up in the spa than ever before.”

The sauna on board

The ship certainly looks the part. There’s a gorgeous, Kelly Hoppen-designed spa, a gym to rival the smartest clubs at home and classes from spinning to cardio boxing, HIIT and bungee fitness. The healthy dining options are promising.

I’m a convert to Zoe, the gut health programme, at home and love healthy eating anyway, but vow not to bang on about it. I just want to go home feeling better than when I arrived and, ideally, the same weight. I’m with my 26-year-old daughter, Lauren, an enthusiastic and well-travelled foodie. “I’m going to eat everything I want,” she declares, “and make up for it in the gym.”

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We board the ship in the Miami sunshine. It’s lunchtime. Lauren makes a beeline for Raw on 5, a smart sushi restaurant with a gleaming display of seafood at the entrance. She piles into the sushi and sashimi (portions from £8), while I have a healthy-ish chicken teriyaki. OK, and two glasses of rosé.

That night, there’s a glitter-themed party, Shine the Night, by the pool, a DJ spins tunes and Bahama Mama cocktails flow. It’s a sultry evening as we steam south and the mood is euphoric. Our jetlag is forgotten as we dance under the stars to the thumping beat until I lose track of time.

Sue Bryant and daughter Lauren doing yoga on board Celebrity Ascent

Lauren staggers into the cabin at about 2am, but there’s no mercy — she’s signed up for a bungee fitness class (£16, or £30 for a three-day class pass) the following morning, cruelly early, at 8.30am. Conveniently, my own exercise regime has to be tamer because I’m injured. I peek around the door of the exercise studio and she’s doing press-ups, suspended from the ceiling by a bungee cord around the midriff, green in the face. I collect a couple of “detox” smoothies from the Spa Café (£5), hoping she’ll be revived. She’s not. I’m tempted to splurge on the new IV Therapy Lounge for a 60-minute “bRevived” drip, but £157 each is too much for a hangover cure, even for my daughter.

There are so many places to eat and drink on this ship — 32, to be precise — that there’s no way we can try all of them on a mini cruise. I head for a tasting session at Eden, a beautiful, leafy lounge at the back of the ship with an entire wall of glass and a smart gourmet restaurant. Eating here costs £47, with the option of a seven-course tasting menu with wine pairings for £95. I’m thrilled to see a vegetarian version of the tasting menu and try the delicate tomato ceviche, which is exquisite. I ask the chef if there’s much demand for the veggie menu. “Not much,” he shrugs. Early days, perhaps.

We snag reservations in Le Voyage, a posh restaurant masterminded by the celebrity chef Daniel Boulud. Dinner here costs £59 a head — much cheaper than the chef’s restaurants ashore. The tamarind and peanut prawns and sea bass with couscous are next level and the restaurant, hidden from the bustle of the ship, is like a gold cocoon.

Le Voyage was masterminded by the celebrity chef Daniel Boulud

There are plenty of places to eat included in the price of the cruise, from four main dining rooms, each with a theme, to the Mast Grill on deck, a café at Eden and the Oceanview Café buffet. Celebrity’s buffets are some of the best at sea and those on Ascent don’t disappoint. A whole counter groans under mountains of seafood. There’s a paella corner, a pasta station, a Tex-Mex section and a carvery, plus cakes in every colour of the rainbow. Luckily for me, there’s a spectacular salad bar and I assemble a mixed salad topped with feta, hummus, seeds and nuts. Followed by a tiny amount of curry.

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To me, food aside, one of the biggest joys of a high-tech ship like this is the entertainment, which also costs nothing. The theatre performances are outstanding and the creative team has variously worked with Katy Perry, Kings of Leon, Cirque du Soleil and Dua Lipa. The shows are joyous, contemporary and energetic, with lasers and kinetic lighting, the same tech that’s being used in the smash hit Abba Voyage show in London. In fact, there’s music everywhere, from jazz in the Grand Plaza to a sultry Smoke & Ivories show in the nightclub, evoking a moodily lit speakeasy.

Our minds never stray far from food, though. Of course, there’s plenty of take-up for burgers and chips at the poolside Mast Grill, but my lunchtime favourite is the Sunset Bar, a Mexico-meets-Morocco al fresco venue spilling over two decks at the back of the ship. There’s a Middle Eastern snack menu here (each dish £6.30) and we tuck into hummus, baba ghanoush and tzatziki with warm pitta, lamb meatballs and tabbouleh.

The Sunset Bar in the Celebrity Ascent

Of course, the question of sustainability is inevitable on any big ship. But cruise lines now use smart technology to predict what quantities of food will be needed, to help minimise waste. Everything outside the buffet on Ascent is prepared à la minute. The whole supply chain has been reviewed to be made more sustainable. Most of the fruit and veg is sourced locally rather than being shipped across the world.

I walk everywhere in my admittedly low-key fitness campaign — and on a ship the size of Ascent, that notches up steps. I can easily smash 10,000 a day. I join a yoga class, which is basic but pleasant, and swim laps in the pool while Lauren cycles in the packed gym and works up a sweat on the Stairmaster. We spend a happy afternoon trying all the saunas and steam rooms in the SEA Thermal Suite — salt, crystals, infrared — and nod off on heated loungers (£78 for a two-day pass).

Wellness on cruise ships is only going to get bigger, says Aishling McCarthy, director of operations for OneSpaWorld, which runs the spa on board. “Sexual wellness, longevity, menopause, emotional wellness, sleep — they’re all trending now,” she says, which means treatments will find their way on to cruise ship spas in time. New for Ascent, for example, is a sleep programme that includes an aromatherapy massage, an evening in the thermal suite, a very light meal and, naturally, leaving your phone in the cabin.

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For all the classes and step-counting Lauren and I do, we probably burn the most calories dancing. On the final night, different generations are grooving together under the stars to Pitbull, JLo and the Kaiser Chiefs with wild abandon, waving glow sticks. This is what I love about cruising. You can make a complete idiot of yourself and nobody cares; even my normally eye-rolling daughter doesn’t bat an eyelid. Which is how I end up on a podium, high in the atmosphere, belting out Sweet Caroline at 1 am in the hot, humid night.

We couldn’t have crammed any more into our short cruise. “I’ve eaten lovely food and made the most of the gym and spa, so I’m happy,” Lauren says. As for me — I’m full of energy and delighted not to have eaten a single beige dish. And my jeans still fit. Mission accomplished.

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Sue Bryant was a guest of Celebrity Cruises, which has seven nights’ full board on Celebrity Ascent from £1,023pp, departing from Athens on July 20 (celebritycruises.com). Fly to Athens

Do you enjoy exercise on holiday? Or does time away equal time off from the gym? Please let us know in the comments

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  24. The Retreat on Celebrity Ascent

    Celebrity Ascent enhances this already unrivaled resort-within-a-resort with stunningly reimagined spaces by one of the most sought-after interior designers in the world, Kelly Hoppen, CBE. Kelly's globally renowned style is a subtle fusion of East meets West, with clean lines, neutral tones, and a charming warmth.

  25. What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

    Ship Capacity: 3,260 passengers. Celebrity Beyond is nearly identical to Celebrity Ascent. Both Edge-class sister ships have the same spectacular amenities and features, including a state-of-the ...

  26. Celebrity Ascent Itineraries

    Celebrity Ascent Itineraries | Celebrity Cruises. 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804. {firstName} Explore Destinations. Destinations. Our Ships. Discover Celebrity Ascent itineraries to the Caribbean and beyond. Be one of the first to sail on our fourth Edge-Series ship. Voted Best Premium Cruise Line.

  27. Celebrity Ascent

    Learn More About Ascent. Introducing our newest award-winning resort at sea, Celebrity Ascent SM, the fourth and most innovative ship in our highly awarded Edge® Series. Celebrity Ascent features 32 distinctive restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud. Ascent includes all the best of our Edge ...

  28. The 'healthy' cruise that wellness fans will love

    Sue Bryant was a guest of Celebrity Cruises, which has seven nights' full board on Celebrity Ascent from £1,023pp, departing from Athens on July 20 (celebritycruises.com). Fly to Athens Fly to ...