Celebrity Cruises has unveiled ‘The Bazaar’ a new, multi-level, multi-sensory destination redefining exploration onboard Celebrity Xcel.
Designed to seamlessly extend the shore experience, The Bazaar blends local culture, culinary delights, and immersive entertainment to enhance destination engagement like never before.
This first-of-its-kind concept offers an ever-changing lineup of experiences, ensuring no two days at sea are the same. From authentic artisan markets and interactive craft workshops to destination-inspired festivals, live entertainment, and hands-on culinary experiences, The Bazaar brings the essence of each port of call onboard in a fresh and dynamic way.
“The Bazaar is a truly one-of-a-kind space designed to seamlessly blend ship and shore and transform the way guests experience destinations,” Celebrity Cruises president Laura Hodges Bethge said.
“Celebrity Xcel intentionally extends the destination experience onboard through a continued authentic offering between ports of call, allowing guests to take the destination with them.”
The inaugural season of Celebrity Xcel will focus on the Caribbean, with four immersive destination-inspired festivals featuring local food, cultural showcases, and performances from native artists.
As the ship transitions to Europe in 2026, The Bazaar will evolve to highlight Mediterranean markets, traditions, and cuisine.
For the travel trade, the innovation opens up new selling points for clients seeking more than just a cruise – they’re looking for a fully integrated cultural journey. The introduction of Xcel Dream Makers, a global community where travellers influence the ship’s onboard offerings, presents a unique engagement opportunity for agents and advisors to connect with clients on a deeper level.
Beyond onboard offerings, Celebrity Xcel enhances the overall guest experience with exclusive shore excursions, from Chef’s Market Discoveries to intimate Small Group Journeys. Travellers seeking a premium beach escape in Nassau will be among the first to experience the highly anticipated Royal Beach Club, launching in late 2025.
With Celebrity Xcel debuting in Fort Lauderdale on seven-night Caribbean itineraries before heading to the Mediterranean in 2026, travel professionals have an exciting new product to position for clients looking for immersive, culture-rich cruising.
