The launch of a new cruise ship is always a highly anticipated event, but when the ship is Celebrity Xcel, the excitement reaches an entirely new level! Marvelous Mouse Travels was thrilled to be in attendance to commemorate the occasion.
As the fifth addition to Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Edge Series, Xcel sets a bold new standard for elevated, luxury cruising in 2025. Before welcoming guests on her inaugural season of Caribbean voyages, she was officially introduced to the world through a thrilling christening and naming ceremony on November 16th that blended modern entertainment, heartfelt tradition, and a celebration of global culture.
Held at the stunning Pool Club, the ship’s vibrant main pool deck, the ceremony began with high-energy performances by the Celebrity Xcel entertainment team. Luigi De La Cruz and Shawna Hachey, the ship’s inaugural Cruise Directors, served as engaging hosts, building anticipation for each unforgettable moment to come.
Soon, the Godmother Procession commenced, led by Jason Liberty, Chairman & CEO of Royal Caribbean Group; Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises; and Captain Kyriakos “Kirk” Matragkas, master of the vessel.
At center spotlight was the ship’s newly named Godmother, Janaina Torres, a Brazilian chef crowned Best Female Chef in the World 2024 by World’s 50 Best. She was chosen for her passion for culturally connected cuisine, local ingredient sourcing, and warm hospitality, perfectly aligned with Celebrity’s values and the ship’s exciting new destination-inspired experience, The Bazaar, which will celebrate authentic global flavors.
Throughout the event, the spotlight never dimmed from the ship’s diverse creativity and cultural exchange. A powerful performance by the St. Andrews Pipe Band of Miami added a ceremonial flourish, while spiritual blessings were shared by Bishop Delton Fernander and Rabbi Lawrence Schuval, symbolizing wishes for safe voyages and unity for all who sail.
The energy ramped back up with a vibrant performance of “Tomorrowland” by the Celebrity Xcel Theater Cast, showcasing the caliber of entertainment that guests can expect onboard. Then came inspiring speeches from Jason Liberty and Laura Hodges Bethge, each highlighting Celebrity Xcel’s innovative design and her role in shaping the future of modern cruising.
Before the official naming could take place, Celebrity Xcel Guitarist Jeff Arnold delivered an electrifying performance of the United States National Anthem, drawing the audience into a moment of collective pride and reflection at sea.
Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for! With blessings complete and tradition honored, a bottle of champagne was ceremonially broken against the ship’s hull, officially christening Celebrity Xcel. This maritime ritual dates back more than a century and is believed to bring good fortune, protection, and smooth sailing for the vessel and all who travel onboard. As the bottle shattered, every guest’s bracelet illuminated simultaneously, filling the Pool Club with sparkling light and signaling the start of Xcel’s exciting future.
The celebration concluded with a lively set by the Bazaar performers, offering a perfect preview of the culinary-forward entertainment guests will experience in this innovative new space, a place where food, performance, and culture come together.
From beginning to end, the Celebrity Xcel christening ceremony was a powerful blend of emotion, joy, and spectacular artistry. It honored the traditions of the sea while ushering in a new era of elevated cruising.
With her name blessed and sails set for adventure, Celebrity Xcel is officially ready to welcome guests to discover relaxation, connection, and luxury, redefined for 2025 and beyond.
Ready to experience Celebrity Xcel for yourself? Marvelous Mouse Travels would love to help you plan the perfect sailing. Contact us today!
