celebrity cruise ship meridian

'Reborn' Meridian Emerges From $55-Million Reconstruction At Lloyd Werft-Bremerhaven

Chandris Celebrity Cruises' luxury liner SS Meridian recently arrived in New York following a major $55-million reconstruction at West German builder Lloyd Werft-Bremerhaven's shipyard.

"The vessel was totally redesigned to support the new Celebrity product level," commented Harry A. Haralambopoulos, executive director of Celebrity Cruises.

"Everything that passengers experience bears the stamp of the new Celebrity Cruises. All the luxury of classic cruising has been incorporated in the creation of the Meridian." Among the structural changes were an entirely new sun deck with three whirlpools; the Marine Cafe which accommodates 450 with its indoor and outdoor seating and barbeque; and a new 585-seat Celebrity Showroom. An entire deck of cabins was razed and rebuilt to create 47 new deluxe cabins with seating areas on the Atlantic Deck.

"The cabins were stripped to the bulkheads to accommodate completely new furnishings and decor in each and every cabin aboard the ship," said Albert C. Wallack, senior vice president, marketing and passenger services, Celebrity Cruises.

Outside passenger cabins on the Horizon Deck, one of eight passen- ger decks, provide great views through floor to ceiling picture windows.

Two cabins were specially adapted to accommodate passengers in wheelchairs.

Among the ship's new public rooms are the Rendez-Vous Lounge, the Interlude Lounge, Zodiac Club, a gym with juice bar, and a children's playroom with a splash pool located outside.

"The Meridian's major reconstruction signifies the investment we have made in passenger accommodations and amenities, reflecting the standards of the new Celebrity product," noted Mr. Haralambopoulos.

The SS Meridian, formerly the SS Galileo, has a gross registered tonnage of 30,440, length of 700 feet, beam of 94 feet, draft of 29 feet, and speed of 24.5 knots. Her passenger capacity is 1,106 and she will be served by a crew of 580. The Bahamian- flagged Meridian has a total of 553 cabins, 295 of which are outside.

During the summer, the Meridian will operate from New York to Bermuda, while in all other seasons, she will depart from Port Everglades in Caribbean service.

For free literature detailing the facilities of Lloyd Werft-Bremerhaven, Circle 126 on Reader Service Card

Read 'Reborn' Meridian Emerges From $55-Million Reconstruction At Lloyd Werft-Bremerhaven in Pdf , Flash or Html5 edition of August 1990 Maritime Reporter

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• Jun 18, 2009
• Tags chandris meridian

• Jun 19, 2009

The add ons, although exstended their lifeline, took away the sleek beauty of both the galileo galilei and the sister ship guglielmo marconi (costa riviera) regards Frank.  

Kolby - Meridian was a totally new cruise ship and previewed many of Celebrity's new brand of cruising. I sailed her as a travel writer both as Meridian and Galileo. The two ships were hardly comparable. The only surviving feature of Galileo was the Winter Garden and covered Promenade deck (delightful!). Compare Meridian with the new Celebrity Equinox and see how this line has progressed over less than twenty years! Celebrity still has the best food & service. Thanks for posting this photo of Celebrity's pioneer vessel! The Sun Viking  

Originally, I was referring only to the exterior view of the ship when i posted this. I didn't know of the interior changes until now. Thanks, Kolby Hurt  

• Jun 20, 2009

From Meridian to Soltice & Equinox...Celebrity have made impressive progress (helped in part by RCCL) and I completely agree you Sun Viking...the service is flawless! Cheers, Phill  

• Jun 22, 2009

A former colleague of mine was working on the bridge when she sank as the SUN VISTA. He said he is convinced that the sinking was an insurance scam.  

• Jul 14, 2009

RD77 - Well, thats what happens when you open up the sea-cocks before hitting the boats! She was worth more in insurance than scrap value and the line was failing miserably. The Sun Viking  

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• Passenger Liners & Cruise Ships

Celebrity Sells Meridian

• February 28, 1997

Celebrity Cruises has sold the 30,440-ton, 1,106-passenger Meridian to Metro Holdings of Singapore for $62 million.

The Meridian is the former Galileo, which was built in 1963 but extensively rebuilt in 1989.

The sale was brokered by Simsonship of Stockholm.

Metro, which is involved in retailing, property and construction, will be a new player in the rapidly expanding Far Eastern cruise market.

The Meridian will continue to sail her present program until October (1997) and Celebrity said it will shortly be announcing new ship deployments for 1998.

In related news, industry sources speculate that Celebrity is close to announcing a two-ship newbuilding program at Meyer Werft for delivery in 1999 and 2000.

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S.s. la marseillaise “orient & indo china” route… from saigon to the depths of grenada…, cruise history: the chandris line and the ss america was the precursor of celebrity cruises..

Posted by: Michael Grace July 3, 2009

Cruise History: The Chandris Line and the SS America was the precursor of Celebrity Cruises. For a history of the SS America click here.

One of the ships operated by Chandris was the beautiful Trans-Atlantic liner America previously owned by the United States Line and initially captained by Demitrios Challioris who had been in charge of a crude oil tanker in Southampton.  Chandris changed the name to the Australis.

The ship had previously accommodated three classes but underwent a major refit and became a one-class configuration geared to carry 2300 passengers.

The aft promenade decks were extended, a swimming pool was added, and air conditioning was installed.

She made 3 month voyages around the world from Bremerhaven, Rotterdam, Southampton, Casablanca, Las Palmas, Cape Town,(or through the Mediterranean via Gibraltar, Naples, Malta, Piraeus, Port Said and Aden), Freemantle, Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland, Suva, Tahiti, Acapulco, Balboa, Cristobal, Port Everglades and return to Southampton.

Chandris Lines also had the Australian Government’s prized immigrant contract bringing tens of thousands of new immigrants out to major ports in Australia The ships were always sold out so that there were 3 sittings for dinner and special sittings for kids. P&O, a rival cruise line, had ceased the line voyage business to Australia so that the Australis was now known as “the world’s largest express liner.”

In 1977 Australis tried a new itinerary from the South Pacific to points in South America to Portugal.

Because of the jet travel and the 747, sea travel for transportation decreased and became the sole remaining liner on the trade.  New Immigrants now traveled by jet. In November of 1977 Australis was laid up. In 1978 she was sold to US investors.

They mismanaged the ship and their company, Venture Cruises, was declared bankrupt. Guess who bought the ship in bankruptcy court? Chandris Lines.

For $4 million less than the amount for which they sold her four months earlier! The ship was laid up and sold in 1992.

Celebrity Cruises was created by Chandris Lines as a separate luxury cruise line, initially using Chandris’s Galileo, which was renamed Meridian after she was rebuilt. She was joined by the new ships Horizon and Zenith in 1990 and 1992.

In 1989 there was a need in the Cruise Industry for a luxury product at a decent price. Chandris wanted to establish a worldwide standard for cruising by The company was determined to set a new, worldwide standard for cruising.

Exceptional Cuisine and all its facets became the mainstay of the Celebrity Cruise experience. Master Chefs serve as the line’s revered culinary and wine consultants since its founding.

In 1995 Celebrity introduced the so called Century Class Fleet with an Industry first:

Luxurious Spa Experiences.

In 1997, Celebrity Cruises merged with Royal Caribbean International, bringing together two extraordinary cruise brands within one corporation, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Today Royal Caribbean uses 29 Cruise Liners.

Cruising has become so popular that from 2000 to 2002 Royal Caribbean doubled its passenger capacity.

Its newest ships use gas turbine engines reducing exhaust emissions by 95% and have become traveling art shows as well.

They boast original paneling and artifacts from famous transatlantic luxury liners.

In 2001, building on the strengths of both the Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises brands,Royal Celebrity Tours was started to offer truly unique vacations in Alaska, Canada and Europe, combining outstanding cruises with exceptional pre- or post-cruise land tour packages now known as “cruise-tours.”

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Looking Back: Celebrity Cruises Marks 30th Year in Service

Doug Parker

• May 28, 2020

As Celebrity Cruises turns 30 this month, they’re proving that age is just a number. Not only did they recently hold the first-ever virtual deliver of a ship, but the vessel in question is the sister to the award-winning Celebrity Edge .

How did the company get from their first ship, the Merdian , to the brand new Celebrity Apex ?

Let’s take a look at their history, as well as what’s on the horizon for the popular cruise line.

In The Beginning

It all started back in May of 1990, when the Greece-based Chandris group created Celebrity Cruises. Chandris had dabbled in cruising previously, having launched a brand named Fantasy Cruises.

But when they saw an opening to attract a more upscale crowd, they sent one of their ships — the Galileo — in for a massive refurbishment.

What emerged was the S.S. Meridian , which would become the first ship to sail under the Celebrity Cruises banner.

The Meridian remained with Celebrity Cruises right up until the time the company was bought by the current parent company, Royal Caribbean International, in 1997.

At that time, the Meridian was sold to Sun Cruises. (This sale proved to be a wise move on Royal Caribbean’s part, as the ship would sink following an engine fire only two years later.)

Before long, Chandris’ Celebrity Cruises had proven successful enough that they ordered two more ships, the Horizon — which joined the fleet in 1990 — and the Zenith , who arrived two years later.

Introducing New Ships and New Concepts

Under the watchful eye of Royal Caribbean International leadership, Celebrity Cruises quickly expanded. They weren’t, however, simply adding new ships. At the same time, they were proving to be innovators within the cruise industry.

READ MORE: Celebrity Summit Review

With the 2000 introduction of the aptly-named Millennium-class, Celebrity became the first cruise line to reduce exhaust emissions by using gas turbine engines as opposed to the traditional propulsion systems. It was also on these ships that the concept of specialty dining was introduced.

Next up, Celebrity introduced the Solstice class in 2008. Already known as a bit higher-end for a mainstream cruise line, these ships took Celebrity’s game to the next level. One of the most popular additions to these ships was the Lawn Club, which was basically a grass-covered sun deck.

The lawn club could be considered something of a precursor to the Central Park neighborhood which would eventually pop up on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships.

In 2004, Celebrity Xpedition began sailing to the Galapagos Islands. This “luxury mega-yacht” was later joined by the Celebrity Xperience and Celebrity Xploration , each of which trod the same territory as the Xpedition.

Taking Things To The Edge and Beyond

Celebrity once again grabbed both attention and headlines when in 2018 they rolled out the Celebrity Edge . The ship took full advantage of developing technologies to introduce several game-changing elements, such as the “magic carpet” which moves up and down the side of the ship, serving as everything from a tender platform to a specialty restaurant, depending on which level it’s being utilized on.

The ship also introduced the concept of “infinite balconies,” which allow cruisers to get closer to the sea than ever, and an unusual entertainment/dining/social complex called Eden which, truth be told, garnered mixed reviews during its early days.

READ MORE: Celebrity Edge Ship Review  

It’s worth noting that Edge , like the upcoming Celebrity Apex , were rolled out under the watchful eye of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, who in 2014 became the first female president of a major cruise line.

And if you’re seeking inspiration, look no further than this 32-year veteran of Royal Caribbean, who got her start in the travel industry after responding to a Help Wanted ad placed by a travel agency!

Next up for the company? There are currently plans for three more Edge-class ships, starting with the Celebrity Beyond . But for the moment, we’re looking forward to helping the company celebrate its 30th birthday while welcoming Celebrity Apex to the family!

Feature Photo from Flickr Creative Commons/ JasperDo

Celebrity Cruises Through the Years

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• What Ever Happened To........???

Celebrity Meridian

By martelcruiser , January 29, 2009 in What Ever Happened To........???

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martelcruiser

Does anyone know whatever happened to the Celebrity Meridian? My wife and I met for the first time on her back in 1995. We went back together (as an engaged couple) back in 1996 and have been hooked to cruising ever since (Celebrity only! ;)). She was an old ship at the time, much older now :D, but we loved her! We have an obvious attachment to that ship, but looking in recent cruise ship-review books, I have been unable to find her. I heard that she was sold right around the last time we sailed on her.

Does anyone know whatever happened to this wonderful ship? I fear it was scrapped but I just don't know.

Thanks a-bunch!

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Does anyone know whatever happened to the Celebrity Meridian? My wife and I met for the first time on her back in 1995. We went back together (as an engaged couple) back in 1996 and have been hooked to cruising ever since (Celebrity only! ;)). She was an old ship at the time, much older now :D, but we loved her! We have an obvious attachment to that ship, but looking in recent cruise ship-review books, I have been unable to find her. I heard that she was sold right around the last time we sailed on her.   Does anyone know whatever happened to this wonderful ship? I fear it was scrapped but I just don't know.   Thanks a-bunch!   -Guilliam

Try this site and go to the Celebrity pages:

http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/

Originally Galileo Galilei, her last incarnation was as Sun Vista for Sun Cruises out of Singapore (I think). She burned and sank in Asia around 1999. EM

There's a whole Wikipedia page on her:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SS_Meridian

She sank as Sun Vista on May 21, 1999 off the coast of Malaysia.

• 2 years later...

I sailed her around the world from Genoa in 1977 when she was the Galileo - what a grand trip and little did I know how close she was to the end of her early career as an Italian flagship passenger liner. Grand itinerary: Genoa, Naples, Suez; Dijbouti; Mombasa; Durban; Freemantle; Melbourne; Sydney; Aucklan, Noumea, Papaeete, Acapulco, Panama, Curacao and back to Genoa. Anyone else remember the bon vivant Asst. purser Alessandro Talemo-Lamberti? When we passed her resting place as a dive site off Penang, I tossed out the Joker from my pack of Lloyd Triestino Galileo Galilei playing cards and hoped it floated back to her new home at the bottom of the sea.

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What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Here’s what you need to know about every Celebrity Cruises ship.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is among our readers' favorite mega-ship ocean lines — coming in at No. 1 in 2022 and No. 2 in 2023 as part of our World's Best Awards (WBA) — and it's easy to see why. This WBA Hall of Fame honoree truly shines with its sophisticated, tasteful decor and sleek onboard spaces, including swanky lounges, dazzling bars, gourmet specialty restaurants, and contemporary suites. Almost all Celebrity ships, except the three Xpedition-class vessels, offer standard amenities like casinos, retail shops, spas, and Broadway-level shows and entertainment. There's also the adults-only Solarium and The Retreat, the latter of which is reserved exclusively for suite guests. Paul Brady , Travel + Leisure ’s news director and cruise expert, told us, “Because its ships offer so much to do, Celebrity is a fantastic choice for families, who can choose from a huge array of well-designed staterooms and suites. Groups of friends, too, will find much to like, thanks to the brand's fantastic dining (and drinking) options.”

Meet the Expert

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on all things cruise.

Kari Becker is a travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels.

With a fleet of 16 ships, it can be tricky to determine which Celebrity ship is best suited for your specific needs.Travel advisor Kari Becker of Marvelous Mouse Travels explains, "Whatever your taste, there is a perfect Celebrity cruise to meet your needs." She continues, telling T+L, "There are three main classes: the Edge, Solstice, and Millennium classes, all with unique features, benefits, and advantages." The Millennium-class ships are smaller which, per Becker, may "offer a more personalized experience." Solstice is the largest class of Celebrity's fleet, says Becker. "When designed, these ships focused on innovation, with unique spaces including a real grass lawn, and unique onboard experiences, such as glass-making classes." Last but not least is Celebrity's Edge class. Per the pro, the ships in the line's newest class are "the largest of the fleet, offering more space for additional experiences and restaurants, including a massive pool deck, floating platform at sea (aptly called the Magic Carpet), and Rooftop Garden." All in all, she says, "The Edge series is for guests looking for transformative cruising and splendor with countless gourmet restaurants and immersive entertainment." 

Ahead, we’ve listed every Celebrity ship currently in service — complete with their notable amenities, launch year, guest capacity, and other need-to-know insights — to help you determine which vessel is best for your next voyage.

Celebrity Ascent

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Edge 

Ship Capacity: 3,260 passengers

Celebrity’s newest ship is also its flashiest — in the best way possible. The Celebrity Ascent offers an expanded Retreat area (exclusive to suite guests), complete with a 40-percent-larger two-story sundeck, and the swanky Sunset Bar, which is 180 percent larger. Beyond The Retreat, there are 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, a lush Rooftop Garden, an adults-only Solarium, the three-level Eden restaurant and entertainment venue, and the Magic Carpet, a floating platform that reaches 13 stories above sea level. Finally, stay in one of the Iconic Suites, the largest in the Celebrity fleet, for the ultimate splurge. 

Celebrity Beyond

Inaugural Year: 2022

Celebrity Beyond is nearly identical to Celebrity Ascent . Both Edge-class sister ships have the same spectacular amenities and features, including a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center that’s sure to impress wellness-seekers, who will also be happy in one of the AquaClass Sky Suites, which offer in-room yoga mats and fitness equipment. It’s also worth noting that these suite guests also enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite and a dedicated spa concierge. Don’t miss the adults-only Solarium, the Rooftop Garden, the aforementioned Eden, or the Magic Carpet, which offers the best views at sea.

Paul Brady was onboard the Beyond in October 2022. “My stateroom, 9164, was a Sky Suite, with a king bed facing a private terrace and a clever roll-open mirror that let natural light into the spacious bathroom. Dining at the Daniel Boulud restaurant Le Voyage was one highlight — with seven courses — but so too were casual cocktails at Sunset Bar, with its touch of Moroccan design influence courtesy of Nate Berkus, who dreamed up the multi-level lounge,” said Brady of his experience.  

Celebrity Apex

Inaugural Year: 2020

Ship Capacity: 2,910 passengers

The second Edge-class ship, Celebrity Apex, made its grand debut in 2020. It boasts an abundance of stylish onboard spaces, including the Rooftop Garden and the adults-only Solarium. Access to the exclusive Retreat area is reason alone to book one of the contemporary suites. Other highlights include the dazzling three-story Grand Plaza, where you’ll find the aptly named Martini Bar, one of 29 bars, lounges, and restaurants aboard Apex , along with the orange-hued Magic Carpet, which offers live music and a full bar 13 feet above sea level.  

“I was fortunate to snag one of just a handful of Royal Suites on the ship, 12105, which had the look of a chic coastal Florida cottage, elevated with pops of bright green, geometric tiling, and contemporary art on the walls. The bathroom, with a deep soaking tub and spacious shower, rivaled any I’ve seen at land-based resorts,” said Brady of his November 2021 sailing. “Same with the Grand Plaza at the heart of the ship, a gathering place with a hotel lobby vibe in the best possible sense — and a glitzy Martini Bar.”

Read More : 9 Best Cruises for Couples

Celebrity Flora

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Xpedition 

Ship Capacity: 100 passengers

Cruise the Galapagos in style aboard Celebrity Flora , which made its maiden voyage in 2019. The vessel was designed with sustainability in mind: It's built with natural materials and features anchorless technology to protect the seabed. Certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park are on board to help guests gain a better understanding of the region for an educational trip. The ship also offers a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience, which includes dinner and drinks, a naturalist-guided stargazing session, accommodations in a cabana-turned-double bed, and a private breakfast. Plus, with its all-suite accommodations, the small ship has a mega-yacht feel.

Celebrity Edge

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 2,918 passengers

This sophisticated ship — the first in Celebrity’s Edge class — changed the game following its 2018 debut. What’s more, Edge was the very first Celebrity ship to feature the Magic Carpet, the multifunctional Eden, and the Infinite Veranda Staterooms, which, with the touch of a button, transform your living space into your very own private balcony.

Related: 10 Best Alaska Cruises to Take This Summer, According to Experts

Celebrity Reflection

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Solstice 

Ship Capacity: 3,046 passengers

The fifth, final, and largest Solstice-class cruise ship, Celebrity Reflection , will impress even the pickiest of travelers with its onboard activities, amenities, and spaces, including a total of 22 bars, restaurants, and lounges. In addition to The Retreat (reserved exclusively for suite guests) and The Solarium (adults-only), Reflection — along with all Solstice-class ships — boasts the Lawn Club. Located on the top deck of the ship, this chic outdoor space (which is outfitted with real grass, no less), is perfect for sipping cocktails, enjoying a leisurely lunch, listening to live music, lounging in a cabana, or playing a game of bocce or croquet. The adults-only Persian Garden area at the spa is a favorite amongst wellness enthusiasts.

Celebrity Silhouette

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 2,902 passengers

Celebrity Silhouette is elegant in every sense, from the aptly named Grand Foyer — with its marvelous marble floors, extravagant staircase (which is prime for photo opportunities), and the first panoramic oceanview glass elevators at sea — to stylish lounges like The Hideaway or the natural light-filled Sky Lounge. While suite guests gain exclusive access to The Retreat, anyone can relax in one of the swanky pool areas or the laid-back Lawn Club. Then, when hunger — or thirst — calls, passengers can take their pick of over 20 food and drink options.

Celebrity Eclipse

Inaugural Year: 2010

Ship Capacity: 2,852 passengers

An impressive modern art collection, an expansive spa, a half-acre lawn, and top-notch dining: Find all this and more aboard Celebrity Eclipse , which debuted in 2010. This Solstice-class vessel also boasts an onboard nightclub, popular among party-centric travelers, a striking Grand Foyer, and, last but not least, the Solstice Club. Located at the highest point of the ship, the Solstice Club is a haven for R&R with its canopy lounge beds — and it’s also a popular spot for morning yoga or evening stargazing sessions.

Related: 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Celebrity Equinox

Inaugural Year: 2009

Refurbished in 2019, Celebrity Equinox exudes cool. On board this stylish ship, guests can sip cocktails in style at one of several hip bars, including the Martini Bar and Slush, enjoy a picnic lunch or practice their golf swing at the half-acre Lawn Club, or soak up the sun at the adults-only Solarium or the plush lounge-lined pool area. Finally, guests should consider booking a suite to access Luminae, a swanky restaurant that serves decadent dishes designed by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud.

Celebrity Solstice

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Capacity:  2,852 passengers

The first ship in Celebrity’s Solstice class currently cruises Alaska and the Pacific Coast in style. Here, you’ll find the lush Lawn Club, the adults-only Persian Garden thermal suite, and the glam Grand Foyer. Additional highlights include the Solstice Deck, an onboard nightclub, and a slew of bars and lounges, including the wine-centric Cellar Masters, where oenophiles can learn about – and taste — a wide variety of vinos from across the globe. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Hot Glass Class, featuring professional-led glass-blowing demos.

Read More : 10 of the Best Mediterranean Cruises for Every Type of Traveler

Celebrity Xploration

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Xpedition

Ship Capacity: 16 passengers

With a passenger capacity of just 16, the Xploration is Celebrity’s smallest ship. As such, cruisers can expect an intimate onboard ambiance. When not out and about exploring the Galapagos, guests can hang in the lounge, relax in their suite (some with private balconies), and soak up some rays — or stargaze — on the hot tub-equipped sundeck.

Celebrity Constellation

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Class: Millennium 

Ship Capacity: 2,184 passengers

This 22-year-old Celebrity ship offers a more refined, subdued atmosphere compared to the line’s newer ships, which boast flashier features like the Magic Carpet. The Rooftop Terrace area serves as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor movie theater, complete with cozy furnishings coupled with mouthwatering bites and sips. Meanwhile, the adults-only Persian Garden area in the spa is ideal for wellness-seeking cruisers.

Celebrity Summit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,218 passengers

Celebrity Summit, which cruises Alaska and the Caribbean, technically dates back to 2001; however, in 2019, it received a $75-million refurbishment to bring it a little more in line with Celebrity’s newest ships, including 2018’s Celebrity Edge . Expect stylish spaces galore, including the Sunset and Martini bars, plus a sleek Rooftop Terrace where cruisers can catch outdoor flicks while basking in the ocean views.

Read More : 25 Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Tropical Vacation

Celebrity Xpedition

Ship Class: Xpedition  

Ship Capacity: 48 passengers

Last refurbished in 2018, Celebrity Xpedition was purposely built to cruise the Galapagos. The immersive onboard experience includes nightly lectures by certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park, who will be on board the entire sailing. Enjoy postcard-worthy views from the Panorama Deck, or take a dip in the hot tub on the Sunrise Deck. Passengers can choose from a handful of elegant rooms and suites; however, those who want their own balcony will need to spring on the latter.

Celebrity Infinity

Inaugural Year: 2000

Ship Capacity: 2,170 passengers

Celebrity Infinity is a favorite among laid-back cruisers — primarily couples and adult friend groups. Popular onboard hangout spots include the adults-only Solarium, the buzzy Rooftop Terrace, and, for suite guests, The Retreat. The ship also has a handful of specialty dining restaurants (in addition to complimentary ones, of course). Le Petit Chef is well worth the added fee thanks to a combination of gourmet eats and exhilarating entertainment complete with tabletop animations.

Read More : 10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

Celebrity Millennium

Inaugural Year: 1999

Ship Class: Millennium  

Don’t sleep on Celebrity’s oldest ship, which includes a handful of fan-favorite amenities and spaces such as The Retreat, the Solarium, the Rooftop Terrace, and the Grand Foyer. Last refurbished in 2019, Millennium now features a more contemporary design aesthetic, similar to what you’d find on the newer ships. There are also more than 15 bars and restaurants on board.

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Celebrity Cruises ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

What's the newest Celebrity Cruises ship? If you're thinking about booking a trip with Celebrity, it's a good thing to find out.

The newest Celebrity ship is typically also the Celebrity ship with the most bells and whistles and the most up-to-date venues, including cabins, restaurants, bars and attractions. It's what you want if you desire the very latest and greatest in a vessel for your Celebrity Cruises vacation.

Right now, the newest Celebrity cruise ship is Celebrity Beyond. It just debuted in April 2022.

Although Celebrity Beyond is barely more than a year old, it'll soon be supplanted as the newest Celebrity Cruises vessel by Celebrity Ascent — a very similar vessel in the same Edge-class series of ships as Celebrity Beyond. Celebrity Ascent begins sailing in December 2023.

For more cruise guides, reviews and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Other relatively new Celebrity cruise ships include Celebrity Apex , Celebrity Flora and Celebrity Edge . All began sailing in the last five years.

In all, Celebrity Cruises operates 15 vessels. On average, the line comes out with a new ship every two years, and it typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 30 years before retiring them from the fleet. The oldest Celebrity ship, Celebrity Millennium, is 23 years old.

In general, Celebrity's newest ships are bigger and packed with more venues than its older ships. If you are looking for Celebrity ships with the most restaurants, bars, lounges and other amenities, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last few years.

Related: 4 types of Celebrity Cruises ships, explained

That said, the above is a generalization that comes with an asterisk. One of Celebrity's newest ships, Celebrity Flora, is also one of its smallest ships.

With room for just 100 passengers, Celebrity Flora is one of three very small vessels in the Celebrity fleet that operate year-round tours in the Galapagos. It's essentially an entirely different business for Celebrity than the mainstream, big-ship cruising that is at the core of the company.

Celebrity is, in a sense, two cruise lines in one: a big-ship brand with 12 vessels that carry 2,000 to 3,000 passengers and sail around the world, and a Galapagos cruise tour operator with three tiny vessels that carry just 16 to 100 people. We include all of the vessels in this guide.

Here, every Celebrity Cruises ship currently in operation is ranked from newest to oldest:

1. Celebrity Beyond

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 141,420 tons Passenger capacity: 3,260

2. Celebrity Apex

Maiden voyage: 2020 Size: 130,818 tons Passenger capacity: 2,910

3. Celebrity Flora

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 5,739 tons Passenger capacity: 100

4. Celebrity Edge

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 130,818 tons Passenger capacity: 2,908

5. Celebrity Reflection

Maiden voyage: 2012 Size: 135,366 tons Passenger capacity: 3,046

6. Celebrity Silhouette

Maiden voyage: 2011 Size: 122,210 tons Passenger capacity: 2,886

7. Celebrity Eclipse

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 121,878 tons Passenger capacity: 2,850

8. Celebrity Equinox

Maiden voyage: 2009 Size: 121,878 tons Passenger capacity: 2,850

9. Celebrity Solstice

Maiden voyage: 2008 Size: 121,878 tons Passenger capacity: 2,850

10. Celebrity Xploration

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 320 tons Passenger capacity: 16

11. Celebrity Constellation

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,170

12. Celebrity Summit

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,158

13. Celebrity Infinity

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,170

14. Celebrity Xpedition

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 2,842 tons Passenger capacity: 48

15. Celebrity Millennium

Maiden voyage: 2000 Size: 91,000 tons Passenger capacity: 2,137

What is the newest Celebrity Cruises ship?

The newest Celebrity cruise ship is Celebrity Beyond. As noted above, it debuted in April 2022. Measuring 141,420 gross tons, it's also the biggest cruise ship in the Celebrity fleet.

What is the oldest Celebrity Cruises ship?

The oldest Celebrity cruise ship is Celebrity Millennium. It was unveiled in 2000, right at the turn of the millennium (hence its name).

What new Celebrity Cruises ships are coming?

Celebrity Cruises currently has two new cruise ships on order. The first to arrive will be Celebrity Ascent in December 2023. It will be followed by an as yet unnamed vessel in 2025.

The two Celebrity Cruises ships on order will be the fourth and fifth ships in Celebrity's Edge-class series of vessels that began debuting in 2018. The first three ships in the series are Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond.

The Edge-class vessels are being built at the giant Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

Related: 5 things to love about Celebrity Beyond

What is the newest Celebrity Cruises ship available for booking?

Celebrity Ascent is the newest Celebrity Cruises ship that you can book right now. While Celebrity Ascent isn't yet sailing, its initial sailings scheduled for December 2023 are already on sale, as are future sailings through April 2025. The other, as yet unnamed Celebrity Cruises ship on order for delivery in 2025 has yet to open for bookings.

What is the newest class of Celebrity Cruises ships?

The Edge class is the newest class of Celebrity Cruises ships. Currently in the midst of rolling out, it'll be made up of at least five vessels.

The first Edge-class vessel, Celebrity Edge, debuted in 2018. Two more — Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond — began sailing in 2020 and 2022, respectively.

The last two ships in the series currently on order, Celebrity Ascent and an as yet unnamed sister vessel, are due in December 2023 and sometime in 2025, respectively.

The Edge-class vessels aren't just the newest ships in the Celebrity fleet but are also the most advanced vessels in the Celebrity fleet. Designed to carry 2,908 to 3,260 passengers apiece at double occupancy, they each have such innovative new features as "infinite veranda" cabins with outward-facing walls that are entirely made of glass.

Another innovative feature of the Edge-class ships is the 90-ton platform along the side of each of the vessels called the Magic Carpet. As big as a tennis court, the platforms are cantilevered over the side of the vessels and can be raised and lowered to serve different functions — from a waterside bar to a water shuttle boarding area.

What's the difference between newer and older Celebrity Cruises ships?

Newer Celebrity Cruises ships generally are bigger than older Celebrity ships — in some cases by as much as 35% bigger. As a result, they have room for more onboard venues and attractions than the line's older vessels.

On Celebrity's newest and biggest Edge-class vessel, Celebrity Beyond, for instance, you'll find an expanded resort-within-a-resort area for suite passengers called The Retreat that isn't on the smaller vessels in the Edge-class series or on other older ships in the Celebrity fleet. It offers a new two-story sun deck with hot tubs, lounge chairs and private cabanas that are open exclusively to passengers staying in suites.

Celebrity Beyond also has 179 more cabins than its sister vessels, each of which has 1,467 cabins. As a result, it holds 3,260 passengers at double occupancy. That's up from a 2,910-passenger capacity at double occupancy for Celebrity Apex and a 2,908-passenger capacity at double occupancy for Celebrity Edge.

Celebrity's oldest Millennium-class ships, by contrast, only carry about 2,100 passengers at double occupancy. As a result, they have a more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships.

That makes them a good choice for someone who wants to try Celebrity but isn't eager to travel with big crowds. The oldest ships in the Celebrity fleet thus appeal to a subset of Celebrity fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive per day to sail on.

Related: Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club loyalty program: The ultimate guide

Celebrity's three very small Galapagos-based vessels have the most intimate feel of all. They are like tiny boutique hotels that float.

Note that all Celebrity ships are renovated and upgraded on a regular schedule every few years, so even the oldest Celebrity cruise vessels have newer carpeting, updated furniture, modern decor in cabins and other updates. In many cases, they also have had entire eateries and bars renovated over the years with concepts that first debuted on newer vessels.

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Western Mediterranean Cruises

Unrivaled culture, art, and cuisine at your fingertips.

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Thrilling Cruises to the Western Mediterranean

Spend your days marveling at breathtaking art, savoring delectable cuisine, and visiting historic landmarks on one of our award-winning Western Mediterranean cruises. Choose from exciting itineraries that visit some of the most stunning destinations in Italy, France, and Spain.

Experience the magic of this region on a Mediterranean cruise to sun-soaked ports of call. Marvel at the Sistine Chapel in Rome, and admire the eclectic architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona. Inhale the aroma of the lavender fields of Provence, or relax on a golden sand beach in Palma de Mallorca. Some itineraries whisk you even deeper into the region, featuring the glorious island of Malta and the beautiful Croatian coast.

Western Mediterranean Cruise Highlights

Masterpieces of art.

The Western Mediterranean is packed with artistic treasures. In Barcelona, marvel at La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s dazzling basilica. Head to Florence’s Uffizi Gallery to see pieces by Renaissance masters including Da Vinci and Botticelli, or stop by the Galleria dell’Accademia and admire Michelangelo’s exquisite statue of David. From Nice, visit arty St. Paul-de-Vence for the spectacular Fondation Maeght sculpture garden and to see the grave of Marc Chagall.

Fantastic Food & Drink

Feast your way around the coastlines of the Western Mediterranean, savoring delicious regional specialties as you go. Try paella in Valencia, and share a plate of tapas and a chilled glass of  jerez while listening to flamenco music in Seville. Sip a cappuccino in sunny Portofino and cool off in Sorrento with homemade gelato. In Rome, the iconic pasta dish is cacio e pepe, while Marseille is famed for its bouillabaisse, a rich and tasty fish stew.

Captivating History

A cruise to the Western Mediterranean is a chance to explore some of history’s most fascinating landmarks. Step inside Rome’s Colosseum, the world’s largest ancient amphitheater, dating back to 70 AD. Visit the Royal Alcázar Palace in Seville, and marvel at the intricate facade of this stunning 12th-century monument. In Valencia, head to the cathedral to see what’s considered the actual Holy Grail. Pisa, meanwhile, is where you’ll find the dramatic Leaning Tower.

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Rome, italy.

Italy’s charismatic capital has it all: epic monuments, chic shopping, fine dining, and leafy parks. Gaze in wonder at the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel, its ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Stroll the leafy gardens of Villa Borghese and take in the vastness of St. Peter’s Square. Stop for coffee and gelato in buzzing Piazza Navona—and remember to toss a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City.

Cannes, France

Get swept up in the glamor of Cannes, home of the ritzy annual film festival. Feel like a Hollywood star as you stroll along the palm-lined La Croisette promenade, where you can shop at upscale boutiques or people-watch in an outdoor café. Head to one of the surrounding beaches and swim in the warm Mediterranean Sea. Take a scenic drive to other seaside towns in the French Riviera, including Antibes, Nice, and Monte Carlo.

Valencia, Spain

With its futuristic buildings, long, golden beaches, and Gothic cathedral, Valencia exudes both beauty and confidence. Visit the dazzling City of Arts and Science, an entertainment complex designed by superstar architect Santiago Calatrava. Shop for saffron and spicy sausages at the Mercado Central. Stroll the lush Turia Gardens, a delightful urban park occupying a former riverbed that winds through the city. And don’t leave without sampling paella, which originated here.

Western Mediterranean Cruise Itineraries

Embark on an exciting Western Mediterranean cruise from April until November on an unforgettable itinerary ranging from seven to 14 nights. On most sailings, you’ll visit at least seven different ports throughout your journey. While the majority of these cruises spend at least one day at sea, some longer itineraries spend up to three days at sea, so you can unwind and enjoy the ship. Cruises to the Western Mediterranean depart from Barcelona, Rome, Athens, Ravenna, and Southampton.

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Why sail to the western mediterranean with celebrity cruises.

On a Celebrity cruise, you’ll discover some of the most spectacular destinations in the Western Mediterranean in the comfort of one of our sleek, contemporary ships.

Indulge in spacious staterooms, cutting-edge venues, and world-class restaurants with delicious menus. For a truly unforgettable trip, elevate your vacation with a stay at The Retreat® , where you’ll sleep in a breathtaking suite and enjoy exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge, and more.

Aboard Celebrity Ascent, you’ll find cutting-edge entertainment, the leafy Eden lounge, and the innovative Magic Carpet, an al-fresco lounge cantilevered over the side of the ship. You could choose Celebrity Eclipse or Celebrity Equinox, both of which offer the Lawn Club, a fragrant, grassy space for picnics and lawn games on the upper deck. Or Celebrity Constellation, beloved by our regular guests and recently refitted.

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• What Ever Happened To........???

Celebrity Meridian

By martelcruiser , January 29, 2009 in What Ever Happened To........???

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martelcruiser

Does anyone know whatever happened to the Celebrity Meridian? My wife and I met for the first time on her back in 1995. We went back together (as an engaged couple) back in 1996 and have been hooked to cruising ever since (Celebrity only! ;)). She was an old ship at the time, much older now :D, but we loved her! We have an obvious attachment to that ship, but looking in recent cruise ship-review books, I have been unable to find her. I heard that she was sold right around the last time we sailed on her.

Does anyone know whatever happened to this wonderful ship? I fear it was scrapped but I just don't know.

Thanks a-bunch!

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Does anyone know whatever happened to the Celebrity Meridian? My wife and I met for the first time on her back in 1995. We went back together (as an engaged couple) back in 1996 and have been hooked to cruising ever since (Celebrity only! ;)). She was an old ship at the time, much older now :D, but we loved her! We have an obvious attachment to that ship, but looking in recent cruise ship-review books, I have been unable to find her. I heard that she was sold right around the last time we sailed on her.   Does anyone know whatever happened to this wonderful ship? I fear it was scrapped but I just don't know.   Thanks a-bunch!   -Guilliam

Try this site and go to the Celebrity pages:

http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/

Originally Galileo Galilei, her last incarnation was as Sun Vista for Sun Cruises out of Singapore (I think). She burned and sank in Asia around 1999. EM

There's a whole Wikipedia page on her:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SS_Meridian

She sank as Sun Vista on May 21, 1999 off the coast of Malaysia.

• 2 years later...

I sailed her around the world from Genoa in 1977 when she was the Galileo - what a grand trip and little did I know how close she was to the end of her early career as an Italian flagship passenger liner. Grand itinerary: Genoa, Naples, Suez; Dijbouti; Mombasa; Durban; Freemantle; Melbourne; Sydney; Aucklan, Noumea, Papaeete, Acapulco, Panama, Curacao and back to Genoa. Anyone else remember the bon vivant Asst. purser Alessandro Talemo-Lamberti? When we passed her resting place as a dive site off Penang, I tossed out the Joker from my pack of Lloyd Triestino Galileo Galilei playing cards and hoped it floated back to her new home at the bottom of the sea.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Royal Caribbean's Celebrity Cruises addresses angry customers

Casino loyalty program perks are earned, often at a fairly high cost to the gambler.

Celebrity Cruises has generally offered one of the most generous casino programs when you reach its higher levels. The meaningful perks start when you reach the Sapphire level of the cruise line's Blue Chip casino program. 

Related: 5 Things I loved about Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas (and 2 I didn't)

Under the past system, earning Sapphire status required 100,000 points, which were earned by wagering $1 and $2 on video poker. Table players earn points at higher dollar amounts, which vary by game.

So, a slots player would have to cycle $100,000 through Celebrity's machines to reach that tier. Given the roughly 85% return rate on cruise ship slot machines, that's a $15,000 loss, although some will do worse and some will do better (a few may even come out ahead).

Sapphire Plus required 500,000 points, while Ruby took 1 million. In all three cases, that's very meaningful money wagered, but the perks for hitting those top tiers were also very meaningful. Ruby members, for example, get $500 in FreePlay on any cruise 4 nights or longer, a free internet package, and a free classic beverage package on each cruise after they attain the status.

Celebrity Cruises shared a few months ago that it would end its casino year (which had actually gone on for roughly 3 years due to the Covid pandemic) on July 31. Traditionally, when that happens, anyone who earned status and benefits in the past year would keep them for the next year.

But that's not what happened.

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Celebrity made major changes

In most cases, when a cruise line changes its casino program, it does so for the following year. This means that passengers who made the investment earn certain perks they can enjoy from the time they hit that tier and for a full year after. 

That is why it was shocking when Celebrity Cruises shared the benefits for the casino year beginning August 1. It did not include the guaranteed FreePlay for Sapphire ($500), Sapphire Plus ($1,000), and Ruby ($2,500). It also completely dropped the drink package benefit and removed included gratuities from Ruby members.

The original benefit honored the FreePlay for cruises paid in full by August 1 (and longer in some cases based on loyalty program tiers), but Celebrity did not honor the drink package benefit. That's a perk worth roughly $80 per day, so losing it has a meaningful financial impact on people who had already booked cruises (and, in many cases, made budget choices).

The new benefits added included discounts in Effy jewelry store and spa discounts, Celebrity also revamped the FreePlay system to reward Blue Chip members for their play on each sailing rather than the previous benefit offered on every cruise.

These changes caused significant anger on social media because Celebrity's Blue Chip members felt that their earned perks — the reason many of them invested so heavily in gambling onboard — should be honored for the year they earned them.

To its credit, Celebrity Cruises did something few corporations do — it listened to its customers and rolled back many of the changes.

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Celebrity Cruises delays casino changes

Outrage over the changes taking effect in the coming casino year was loud, with many posts sharing Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge's email along with other top executive emails.

Celebrity, also to its credit, issued a second email a day after the changes that addressed the root cause of why many Blue Chip members were angry.

"Yesterday, we announced some changes to the Celebrity Blue Chip Club program. The feedback we received from you in the last 24 hours made it clear that we did not roll out these changes the way we should have. We are very sorry for the stress this may have caused you and would like to share how we are addressing this," the cruise line shared via email.

The cruise line essentially restored the drink and FreePlay benefits, not for the entire year, but for booked and paid-for cruises.

"On August 1, 2024, you will retain your current Tier Status for the next 12 months until July 31, 2025. You will continue to receive the same FreePlay benefits, beverage package benefits, and prepaid gratuity benefits of the previous program based on your tier for bookings fully paid and confirmed prior to August 1, 2024, with a sail-by date on or before July 31, 2025 (sailings must be 4 nights or longer)," it added.

ALSO READ: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your cruise

Top-tier Captain's Club members also get an extended period to book and pay for cruises where they will get the old benefits.

• Elite: Book by October 30, 2024 and sail on or before July 31, 2025
• Elite Plus: Book by January 31, 2025 and sail on or before July 31, 2025
• Zenith: Book by and sail on or before July 31, 2025

In theory, the drink benefits and guaranteed FreePlay will end when the 2024/25 Blue Chip casino year ends on July 31, 2025. The cruise line, however, could opt to delay or even drop those changes based on passenger feedback.

Related: Get the best cruise tips, deals, and news on the ships from our expert cruiser