Last updated:: 9:00 PM ET, Thu November 27, 2025
Celebrity Cruises has officially begun construction on Celebrity Xcite, the sixth ship in its acclaimed Edge-class series. The announcement came during a steel-cutting ceremony at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where executives from Royal Caribbean Group and the shipyard celebrated this milestone.
Set to debut in 2028, Celebrity Xcite will be the sister ship to Celebrity Xcel, which launched in November 2025.
While specific details about Celebrity Xcite remain limited at this early stage, the vessel is expected to follow the Edge Series' signature design philosophy, featuring an outward-facing layout with venues designed to maximize sea views and natural light.
"Celebrity Xcel represents the next bold step in our journey to transform the way the world experiences premium travel," said Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group president and CEO. "Each ship in the Edge Series has reimagined what's possible at sea through elevated design and experiences that deepen the connection to the destinations being visited."
Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, emphasized the guest-focused approach that will carry forward to the new ship.
"Celebrity Xcel has been designed with our guest as our north star, we even involved them in the design process through the Xcel Dream Makers program, so we know she will be the happy place of vacationers globally," she said. "We're thrilled to welcome guests aboard next month and are excited to further expand these offerings on Celebrity Xcite."
The partnership between Royal Caribbean Group and Chantiers de l'Atlantique continues to drive innovation in cruise ship design.
"Our continued partnership with Royal Caribbean Group on Celebrity Xcite reflects a shared commitment to excellence and innovation," noted Laurent Castaing, general manager of Chantiers de l'Atlantique.
As construction progresses over the next few years, more details about Celebrity Xcite's amenities and itineraries are expected to emerge.
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