The Celebrity Apex has finally arrived at Port Canaveral, and that means one of the most innovative cruise ships at sea is now boarding right in Central Florida. For those of us who live here, it means – No flights. No hassle. Just step on and sail into the Caribbean. For those who are visiting the theme parks and everything else that Orlando has to offer on vacation and want to double their fun, it means taking a rideshare or shuttle to the port and letting Celebrity do what they do best – PAMPER YOU.
I was lucky enough to cruise Apex recently with my husband, and we booked a stateroom with an Infinite Veranda. If you haven’t experienced this before, it’s not your typical balcony, but floor-to-ceiling windows that open with the push of a button (lowering the top window) to a veranda that makes you feel like you are open to the sea. It changes the feel of the room. The space is brighter, bigger, and more connected to the sea.
Why Apex Feels Like the Future of Cruising
This ship doesn’t just push the boundaries — it erases them.
Here’s what makes Celebrity Apex such a standout:
1. The Magic Carpet
You can’t miss it — a bright orange, glass-walled platform that moves up and down the side of the ship. It’s part bar, part lounge, part dining space, and 100% unique. Sitting out there with a drink while hovering above the ocean? One of the coolest moments of the cruise.
2. Eden
A three-level space at the back of the ship wrapped in glass and overflowing with plants, sunlight, and great vibes. During the day, it’s a relaxing lounge with views for days. At night, it transforms with live music, performances, and creative cocktails.
3. The Retreat (If You’re Feeling Fancy)
Suite guests get access to a completely private experience: a sundeck, a lounge, and Luminae, a restaurant that’s as polished as any luxury hotel dining room. Bonus: some of the suites are two stories and come with their own plunge pools.
4. Dining That Feels Like a Night Out
There are 29 bars, lounges, and restaurants onboard. Standouts include:
- Raw on 5 – elevated sushi and seafood
- Fine Cut Steakhouse – top-tier cuts and service
- Le Petit Chef – a dining show that plays out right on your plate (yes, really)
Even the main dining rooms are thoughtfully designed, with unique menus and sleek, modern interiors.
5. Entertainment That Isn’t an Afterthought
The Theatre hosts shows that honestly rival what I’ve seen in big cities — original productions with pro-level talent, insane lighting, and set design that makes the whole space feel alive. There’s also The Club for late-night cabaret-style entertainment, DJs, and themed parties.
Now Sailing From Port Canaveral Through 2026
For the first time, Celebrity Cruises is offering Edge Series sailings directly from Port Canaveral. If you’re local, it means No flights. No extra travel days. Just board and go. Visiting the theme parks & want to cruise after? Simply shuttle or rideshare to the port. Flying in? The airport is SO CLOSE to the port.
From now through April 2026, Celebrity Apex is offering seven-night Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral.
Stops include:
- Bimini, The Bahamas
- Cozumel, Mexico
- Grand Cayman
- Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
- St. Kitts & Nevis
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Key West, Florida
- Grand Turk
Each port has its own charm, but honestly, the ship is a destination in itself with its incredible artwork, world-class wine list, and one of my favorite casinos at sea.
Final Thoughts: Infinite Veranda = Best Room in the House
If you’re cruising Apex (and you should), do yourself a favor and book one of the Infinite Veranda rooms (or Concierge or AquaClass). It’s not a gimmick. It’s a complete rethink of what a cruise cabin can be – open, airy, and immersive. That is unless you’re thinking of booking in the Retreat, which is like an exclusive ship within a ship.
Whether you’re sipping coffee while watching the islands roll by or falling asleep to the sound of the ocean, you’ll have a front-row seat to the Caribbean. And now that Apex is sailing from Port Canaveral? That front-row seat is easier than ever to get.
- For more information and to book a sailing with Celebrity Cruises, visit www.celebrity.com, call Celebrity Cruises at 1-800-CELEBRITY or contact a trusted travel advisor.
- Read more about my experience on Celebrity Apex at: The Heart of Cruising
