Celebrity Cruises is redefining luxury at sea with its latest vessel, the Celebrity Xcel, scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage this November. This new ship promises an extraordinary blend of refined travel and gastronomic innovation, highlighted by the appointment of acclaimed Brazilian chef, Janaína Torres, as its ceremonial Godmother. This collaboration signifies a bold step towards integrating world-class culinary artistry and cultural depth into the cruising experience.
Celebrity Xcel Sets Sail with Culinary Visionary Janaína Torres
In a groundbreaking announcement, Celebrity Cruises revealed that the celebrated Brazilian chef, Janaína Torres, will serve as the esteemed Godmother for their upcoming ship, the Celebrity Xcel. This pivotal ceremony, scheduled for November 16, 2025, will officially christen the vessel, bestowing blessings upon its journeys and all who sail aboard. Chef Torres, recognized globally for her innovative and sustainable culinary practices, notably crowned the Best Female Chef in the World 2024 by World’s 50 Best, embodies the ship’s commitment to an elevated gastronomic journey. Her philosophy, rooted in heritage and a no-waste approach, will seamlessly integrate into the onboard experience.
The Celebrity Xcel is set to debut an innovative culinary space known as “The Bazaar.” This concept aims to dissolve the traditional boundaries between ship and port, offering guests an immersive dining experience featuring authentic flavors inspired by the diverse destinations visited. Cultural performances and engaging activities will further enrich this concept, bringing the vibrant essence of each locale directly to the travelers. Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, emphasized the brand’s deep honor in welcoming Chef Torres, whose dedication to celebrating global culture through exquisite food aligns perfectly with their vision. Torres, co-owner of the renowned São Paulo establishment, A Casa do Porco, is not only celebrated for her culinary prowess but also for her tireless advocacy for accessibility and sustainability in dining, including pioneering initiatives that promote nutrition and preserve culinary traditions for broader communities.
Following its christening in November, the Celebrity Xcel will commence its inaugural Caribbean season, departing from the bustling port of Fort Lauderdale. The initial itineraries will offer captivating seven-night voyages to an array of picturesque destinations, including the sun-drenched Bahamas, the vibrant shores of Mexico, the serene Cayman Islands, the historic beauty of Puerto Plata, the charming island of St. Thomas, and the captivating landscapes of St. Maarten. This strategic launch from Fort Lauderdale underscores Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to providing accessible and luxurious escapes to some of the Caribbean’s most beloved locales, promising an unforgettable fusion of discovery and culinary excellence.
The partnership between Celebrity Cruises and Chef Janaína Torres on the Celebrity Xcel represents more than just a new ship launch; it heralds a new era for cruise travel where cultural authenticity and culinary artistry take center stage. For passengers, this means an opportunity to embark on a voyage that transcends mere transportation, transforming into a deeply enriching journey of taste, tradition, and discovery. This bold step by Celebrity Cruises signals a promising direction for the industry, where every meal becomes a story, and every destination is savored.