Big news in the cruising world today—Celebrity Cruises is officially stepping into the world of river cruising, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. Starting in 2027, travelers will be able to sail Europe’s most legendary waterways—the Danube and Rhine—with the same premium touch that has made Celebrity such a standout in ocean cruising.
And here’s the best part: Priority Booking Access opens on September 3, 2025, at 9 a.m. EDT. With a fully refundable $500 deposit, guests can secure exclusive early access to itineraries and stateroom details before bookings open to the general public.
Why This Is a Big Deal
Having written about Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways in the past, I’ve seen firsthand how magical Europe’s rivers can be. There’s something about gliding past castles, vineyards, and historic cities that feels like stepping into a storybook.
Now, with Celebrity entering the river cruise scene, I can’t wait to see how they bring their modern, design-forward ships and elevated service to this more intimate style of travel. If their acclaimed Edge Series ocean ships are any indication, guests are in for something truly special.
What to Expect with Celebrity River Cruises
Celebrity is promising a river cruise experience that feels all-inclusive and effortless. Fares will cover:
✨ All meals (yes, including locally inspired cuisine)
✨ Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
✨ Wi-Fi
✨ Onboard experiences
✨ A daily shore excursion
For those who want to extend their journey, pre- and post-cruise stays in Prague and Budapest will also be available once full bookings open in 2026.
A Few Things That Caught My Eye
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Ships with 360-degree views designed to maximize the scenic beauty of Europe’s rivers
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Celebrity’s celebrated service-first approach, reimagined for smaller, more intimate vessels
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Locally inspired dining and unique shore excursions, delivered “The Celebrity Way”
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An all-inclusive pricing model that takes the guesswork out of planning
How to Be Among the First
If you’re already dreaming about sipping wine as you float through the Wachau Valley or exploring charming old towns along the Rhine, here’s how to lock in Priority Booking Access:
📍 Visit celebritycruises.com/river
📍 Call 1-833-474-8803
📍 Speak with your trusted travel advisor
📍 Or book through the Future Cruise office if you’re sailing with Celebrity now
With just a $500 refundable deposit, you’ll be at the front of the line when full itineraries and stateroom options are released.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on this launch as more details come out about fleet size, itineraries, and shore excursions. Having experienced river cruising with Viking and AmaWaterways, I’m genuinely excited to see what Celebrity does differently—and how they raise the bar on this already incredible way to travel through Europe.
Stay tuned—2027 is shaping up to be a very exciting year on the rivers.
