I recently went on a Celebrity cruise for the first time, and I was blown away by the experience. The impeccable service, luxurious amenities, and stunning destinations left me wanting more. However, with so many Celebrity cruise ships to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.
That’s why I’ve put together a comprehensive ranking of all Celebrity cruise ships, from the best to the worst, based on thousands of reviews from past guests. Whether you’re looking for a premium experience, an expedition ship, or a relaxing atmosphere, I’ve got you covered.
From the family-friendly Celebrity Equinox to the innovative Celebrity Beyond, I’ll give you all the information you need to make an informed decision for your next Celebrity cruise. So, let’s dive in and discover the best and worst Celebrity cruise ships for your next adventure on the high seas. Get ready to set sail and experience the freedom of the open ocean.
- The ranking of all Celebrity cruise ships is based on thousands of reviews from past guests and the average scores of those reviews from Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com, and TripAdvisor, not the author’s opinion.
- The best Celebrity Cruises ship according to past guest reviews is Celebrity Xploration, one of the Celebrity Expedition ships, with an average review score of 4.93 out of 5.
- The worst ships in the fleet have an average review score of 3.87 out of 5.
- Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of ships to suit different preferences and needs, from luxurious and stylish ships to those designed for exploring less accessible regions of the world.
Premium Experience
I love that Celebrity Cruises offers a premium experience, complete with stylish and luxurious ships, top-notch dining venues, and entertainment that sets them apart from other cruise lines.
What makes Celebrity stand out are their unique amenities, such as the Magic Carpet on Celebrity Apex, a platform that moves up and down the side of the ship, serving as a ramp to shore, a bar, and a restaurant.
Another standout feature is the glamping pods on Celebrity Flora, where guests can sleep under the stars in the Galapagos Islands.
But what really sets Celebrity apart is their standout dining options. With menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, guests can expect exquisite culinary experiences on board.
From the Tuscan Grille on Celebrity Equinox to the Lawn Club Grill on Celebrity Reflection, there is something for every taste and preference.
And if you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience, the Chef’s Table on various ships offers a multi-course meal paired with hand-selected wines, all while being personally attended to by the executive chef.
Celebrity Cruises truly offers a premium experience for those who want to indulge in the finer things in life.
Expedition Ships
The Expedition ships from Celebrity Cruises are designed to explore remote regions of the world and are highly recommended by past guests. These ships offer a unique and immersive Galapagos exploration experience, with itineraries that showcase the natural beauty of the islands and their diverse wildlife.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Expedition ships are a great choice. The following table provides a comparison of the three ships in this series: Celebrity Xploration, Celebrity Flora, and Celebrity Xpedition.
| Expedition Ship | Capacity | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Xploration | 16 guests | – Buffet and dining room – Comfortable lounge – Spacious sun deck with large Jacuzzi |
| Celebrity Flora | 100 guests | – Six types of suites – Beautiful Discovery Lounge – Observatory – Two restaurants – Glamping pods |
| Celebrity Xpedition | 48 guests | – Classic wood panelling and patterned carpets – Contemporary touches |
These ships offer a range of amenities and features to enhance your Galapagos exploration experience. From the intimate setting of Celebrity Xploration to the luxurious accommodations of Celebrity Flora, there is something for every type of traveler. So, if you’re ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, consider booking a trip on one of Celebrity Cruises’ Expedition ships.
Ranking Methodology
Based on thousands of reviews from past guests and average scores from Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com, and TripAdvisor, it was determined how the ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet are ranked.
This methodology ensures that the rankings are based on the experiences of actual guests, rather than the subjective opinions of the author. By incorporating multiple sources and averaging the scores, the rankings are also more accurate and representative of the overall guest experience.
While the rankings are based on past guest experiences, it’s important to note that everyone’s preferences and expectations are different. Some guests may value luxury amenities and top-notch dining, while others may prioritize exploring alternative destinations and unique excursions.
By exploring alternatives and considering individual priorities, guests can find the ship that best fits their needs and preferences.
Best Ship: Celebrity Xploration
Funny enough, the highest-rated ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet isn’t one of their luxurious, non-expedition ships. Instead, it’s the Celebrity Xploration, designed for exploring the rugged terrain of the Galapagos Islands.
This ship offers an exclusive and personalized Galapagos experience, with a maximum capacity of just 16 guests. The ship boasts a buffet and dining room, a comfortable lounge, and a spacious sun deck with a large Jacuzzi. This allows guests to soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Despite its small size, the Celebrity Xploration provides a luxurious cruise experience with its elegant and comfortable accommodations. Each suite is decorated in a contemporary style and equipped with modern amenities, including a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.
With its unmatched service, attention to detail, and breathtaking views of the Galapagos Islands, the Celebrity Xploration is undoubtedly the best ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet for those seeking a luxury cruise experience.
Best Non-Expedition Ship: Celebrity Equinox
I personally believe that the Celebrity Equinox is the top choice for a luxurious and relaxing non-expedition cruise with its family-friendly amenities and attention to updating the ship. Renowned features of the Equinox include the Lawn Club, a half-acre of real grass on deck 15 where guests can enjoy picnics and lawn games, and the Silhouette Dining Room, which offers an elegant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Additionally, the ship has a variety of dining options, including the Tuscan Grille, Qsine, and Blu, which offers healthy and delicious options for guests.
In terms of entertainment, the Equinox has something for everyone, with live music, comedy, and theater performances. Families with children will appreciate the kids’ clubs tucked away on Deck 15, including the X-Club for teenagers and Fun Factory for younger children. The ship also offers a range of activities, such as art classes and dance lessons, as well as more relaxing options like the Canyon Ranch Spa and Solarium. Overall, the Celebrity Equinox offers a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience with plenty of dining and entertainment options to suit all tastes.
| PROS | CONS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Family-friendly amenities | Some guests complain about crowded pool areas | ||
| Attention to updating the ship | Some guests find certain dining options overpriced | ||
| Variety of dining options | Some guests find the entertainment options lacking | ||
| Range of activities and entertainment | Some guests complain about the ship’s layout | ||
| Beautiful and elegant atmosphere | Some guests find the cabins small | Limited space in cabins |
Newest and Largest: Celebrity Flora
Surprisingly, the newest and largest ship in the Celebrity fleet, Celebrity Flora, only has a maximum capacity of 100 guests, providing a more intimate and exclusive experience. This Expedition-class ship was specifically designed for Galapagos itineraries and offers an eco-friendly design, with a focus on sustainability.
Here are some features of Celebrity Flora that make it one of the best ships in the fleet:
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The ship has six different types of suite, all with private balconies and ocean views, offering a comfortable and luxurious experience for guests.
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The Discovery Lounge is a beautiful space with floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for taking in the stunning views of the Galapagos Islands. It also has state-of-the-art technology for interactive presentations and educational talks.
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The Observatory is another unique feature of Celebrity Flora, providing guests with 360-degree views of the surrounding environment, including the stars at night.
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The ship has two restaurants, the Seaside Restaurant and the Ocean Grill, both offering delicious cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
Overall, Celebrity Flora is a top choice for those who want to explore the Galapagos Islands in style and comfort, while also being environmentally conscious. Its intimate size and exclusive features make it a unique and memorable experience for all guests.
Original Expedition Ship: Celebrity Xpedition
Exploring the less accessible regions of the world, Celebrity Xpedition is the original Expedition ship of the fleet. It offers a classic yet contemporary design for an unforgettable adventure. With a capacity of 48 guests, this small ship experience allows for a more intimate exploration of the Galapagos Islands.
The ship features a comfortable lounge, a buffet and dining room, and a spacious sun deck with a large Jacuzzi. It’s perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The ship balances classic wood panelling and patterned carpets with more contemporary touches, providing a comfortable and stylish atmosphere for guests.
The focus of the Celebrity Xpedition is on the destination. Expert naturalists are on board to guide guests through the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galapagos Islands. For those seeking an adventure unlike any other, the Celebrity Xpedition is the perfect choice.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Celebrity Equinox
With its serene ambiance and attention to updating the ship, the Celebrity Equinox is a tranquil haven for travelers seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The ship’s modern decor and spacious public areas provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing environment. The attentive crew ensures that guests have everything they need, from poolside drinks to gourmet meals at the ship’s specialty restaurants. Overall, the Celebrity Equinox’s atmosphere is perfect for those who want to unwind and enjoy a stress-free vacation.
One of the reasons why the Celebrity Equinox is so popular is because of its family-friendly amenities. Kids’ clubs are tucked away on Deck 15, and the ship offers a wide range of activities for children of all ages. Parents can relax by the pool or enjoy a spa treatment while their children are entertained with games, movies, and crafts.
The ship also has a variety of dining options, including a family-style Italian restaurant and a casual buffet. With so many amenities for families, it’s no wonder why the Celebrity Equinox is one of the best ships for those traveling with children.
Largest Ship: Celebrity Reflection
I personally found the Celebrity Reflection to be an impressive ship due to its massive size and abundance of amenities. The ship offers spacious areas for guests to unwind and soak in the atmosphere, with a passenger capacity exceeding 3,000.
The ship’s design is modern and sleek, with elegant décor and plenty of natural light flooding in through the expansive windows. One of the standout features of the Celebrity Reflection is its range of dining options, from the main restaurant to specialty venues like the Tuscan Grille and Qsine.
The ship also boasts a variety of entertainment options, including live music performances and Broadway-style shows. All in all, I believe that the Celebrity Reflection is definitely worth the hype and is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxurious cruise experience with plenty of amenities to enjoy.
Innovative Features: Celebrity Beyond
After researching and comparing various Celebrity Cruise ships, it’s clear that Celebrity Beyond stands out with its innovative features and experiences. As the newest addition to the fleet, Celebrity Beyond has been designed with a focus on luxury and sophistication.
One of the top features to check out is the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the side of the ship, serving as a ramp to shore, a bar, and a restaurant. This unique feature allows guests to experience the ocean in a completely new way.
Another feature that makes Celebrity Beyond stand out is the Eden, a three-story space that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor, with live plants and natural elements creating a garden-like atmosphere. This innovative space offers guests a variety of experiences, from relaxation during the day to immersive shows and performances at night.
Celebrity Beyond also boasts a variety of dining options, including a rooftop garden grill, a French restaurant with a wine tower, and a specialty restaurant focused on raw food. Overall, Celebrity Beyond offers a truly unique and luxurious experience for those looking to indulge in the best of what Celebrity Cruises has to offer.
Mixed Reviews: Celebrity Edge
Exploring the reviews of Celebrity Edge feels like embarking on a rollercoaster ride, with some guests praising its stunning design and others criticizing its lack of entertainment options and small rooms.
While some guests found the ship’s Magic Carpet, a platform that moves up and down the side of the ship, as a unique and fun feature, others found it to be a waste of space and not worth the hype. Similarly, while some guests enjoyed the ship’s modern and luxurious decor, others found it to be too avant-garde and not to their liking.
In terms of entertainment options, some guests found Celebrity Edge to be lacking in daytime activities and evening shows, while others found the ship’s performances and events to be repetitive and unimpressive.
Furthermore, some guests felt that the rooms on Celebrity Edge were smaller than expected, especially in comparison to other ships in the fleet. However, others found the rooms to be adequately sized and comfortable.
Overall, while Celebrity Edge has received mixed reviews, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a unique and stylish cruising experience.
What are some of the unique features of the Celebrity Xploration that make it the best ship according to past guest reviews?
As a past guest, I can attest to Celebrity Xploration’s unique features that make it the best ship in the fleet. The buffet and dining room, comfortable lounge, and spacious sun deck with a large Jacuzzi set it apart. Pricing may be higher, but it’s worth it.
How does the Celebrity Equinox cater to families compared to other ships in the fleet?
The Celebrity Equinox is perfect for families with its kids’ clubs on Deck 15 and a variety of entertainment options. It’s known for its relaxing atmosphere and careful attention to updating the ship.
What is the Magic Carpet feature on the Celebrity Apex and how does it enhance the cruise experience?
Have you experienced the Magic Carpet on Celebrity Apex? This innovative feature moves up and down the ship’s side, serving as a ramp to shore, a bar, and a restaurant. It’s one of the many design innovations on par with Celebrity Edge.
What are some of the negative feedback and criticisms that the Celebrity Edge has received despite its stunning design?
I’ve read that despite its stunning design, the Celebrity Edge has received negative feedback and design criticisms. Some guests have complained about the small room size and repetitive entertainment options.
Is there any information on the pricing or affordability of the Celebrity Cruises fleet?
As I researched pricing comparison for Celebrity Cruises, I found that they offer discounts and promotions for their fleet. However, pricing varies based on ship, itinerary, and season. It’s best to consult with a travel agent for accurate pricing.