- Celebrity Xcel, launching in November, will feature a new, extensive live entertainment program with over 75 resident performers.
- The entertainment budget and creative team are comparable to major land-based productions, including those behind popular music tours.
- The lineup includes three main theatre shows (Mainstage, Between Takes, Chapters), two interactive club shows, and multiple themed music and dance parties.
- The ship will offer various interactive games and cultural festivals, sailing the Caribbean first, followed by Europe in summer 2026.
Celebrity Cruises has announced its plans for live entertainment on the new Celebrity Xcel, launching in November. The cruise line has focused on developing an extensive lineup of original productions and immersive activities, collaborating with creative professionals who have worked on tours for major music artists. The ship will feature over 75 resident performers and a production budget comparable to a Broadway show.
The goal is to move away from traditional cruise entertainment by offering a “floating festival” experience that includes five original productions, two interactive club shows, elevated dance parties, cultural festivals, and immersive games operating throughout the day. The three new main theatre productions—Mainstage, Between Takes, and Chapters—are described as high-production, immersive spectacles featuring Celebrity’s largest cast to date, supported by advanced technology like a large curved LED screen and pyrotechnics.
Additionally, two new interactive club shows, 254 West and HOTEL, will invite guests to participate in the performance. The ship will also host various themed events, such as a Candlelit Classic Rock concert series and a country-themed Saddle Up Saloon dance party. Interactive games, including escape rooms and competitive arcade experiences, are also part of the programming. Celebrity Xcel will debut with seven-night Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale before moving to Europe for summer 2026. This extensive entertainment offering is intended to provide guests with a wide variety of engagement options throughout their journey.
