Celebrity Cruises Celebrates Xcel Float-Out Milestone

Building a cruise ship is a long and intricate journey, making every milestone a moment of celebration. Celebrity Cruises has reached a significant milestone with the float-out of its new ship, Xcel, the fifth vessel in the acclaimed Edge Series. This achievement took place on January 18, marking the completion of the ship’s exterior and paving the way for the next phases of construction.

Xcel’s journey began in October 2022 with the basic design phase, followed by the first steel cutting a year later. Over the past year, the ship has been constructed through the assembly of 45 massive blocks at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France. These blocks, akin to giant Lego pieces, form the ship’s superstructure and are meticulously built on land before being lifted and attached to the vessel in drydock.

During a behind-the-scenes tour conducted days before the float-out, representatives from Celebrity Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique showcased the impressive progress of Xcel. Crew and passenger cabins are being assembled on-site in an assembly line fashion, then lifted onto the ship’s structure. At the time of the float-out, all crew cabins and approximately 20% of the lower passenger cabins had been installed, according to executives from Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

The float-out process itself is a carefully orchestrated event. Water is gradually introduced into the dry dock, allowing the ship to float for the first time over an eight- to twelve-hour period. Tugboats then maneuver Xcel out of the dry dock and navigate it through the Loire River to a different section of the shipyard, where the final stages of construction will take place. This process not only signifies the ship’s readiness to enter the water but also frees up the dry dock for the construction of the next vessel. Currently, Chantiers de l’Atlantique is building six ships simultaneously, the maximum capacity at the shipyard.

Touring the unfinished Xcel revealed the intricate technology that will keep the ship running smoothly. From electrical wiring and data cables to HVAC systems that maintain optimal cabin temperatures, every detail is meticulously planned and implemented. Workers can be seen welding, painting, sanding, and preparing various parts of the ship, from public areas to the engine room. One highlight of the tour was observing the detailed work on the iconic chandelier in the Grand Plaza area, offering a glimpse of the luxurious amenities that will define Xcel once completed.

Executives from both Celebrity Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique, including Captain Manolis Alevropoulos, Vice President of Marine Operations Stavros Zannikos, and Project Manager Ivan Klaric, shared insights into the shipbuilding process. They emphasized that significant improvements typically occur between the second and third ships of a series. While all Edge Series ships share similar designs, adjustments and enhancements are made to both behind-the-scenes areas and public spaces as each new vessel is built.

In the days following the float-out, Celebrity Cruises announced the Dream Makers program for Xcel. This initiative invites the public to contribute their design ideas, from textiles and interior decor to food and beverage options, as well as entertainment elements like playlists and costumes. This collaborative approach aims to create a personalized and engaging experience for future passengers.

Celebrity Cruises plans for Xcel to debut this fall with sailings to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale. Following its inaugural season, the ship will move to the Mediterranean for the summer 2026 season, offering travelers luxurious voyages across some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

The successful float-out of Xcel represents a major step forward in Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to expanding its Edge Series. With a sixth ship already announced, the series continues to set new standards in cruise ship design and passenger experience, promising unforgettable journeys for cruisers around the globe.

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