You know that I LOVE cruising, and I especially love river cruising. Well, things are about to get shaken up because river cruising is about to get a major upgrade. Celebrity Cruises, known as one of my favorites for pushing boundaries in ocean cruising, has just unveiled the groundbreaking design of their first-ever river ships, and they’re completely rewriting the rulebook on what European river travel can be. I’ve been on my fair share of river cruises, and from the photos that I’ve seen so far, this is taking my favorite water sport to a whole new level.
Set to debut in 2027 along Europe’s most iconic waterways, these innovative ships promise to transform how travelers experience the Rhine and Danube rivers.
Revolutionary Design That Defies Convention
As you have seen by my past reviews of this line, what sets Celebrity’s river ships apart isn’t just one feature; it’s a complete reimagining of the ship’s design. These ships boast more outdoor space than any river ship currently sailing, creating an unprecedented connection between guests and the stunning European landscapes flowing past their windows.
The crown jewel of this outdoor revolution? An infinity-edge plunge pool suspended dramatically above Europe’s most scenic waterways (FYI, most river cruises don’t even have a pool). Picture yourself taking a refreshing dip while medieval castles and vineyard-covered hillsides drift by. It’s the kind of experience that transforms a simple cruise into an unforgettable journey.
The 360-degree views available throughout the ship ensure that no matter where you are onboard, you’re never far from the breathtaking scenery that makes European river cruising so magical. This design philosophy represents a significant departure from traditional river ships, where outdoor viewing opportunities are often limited.
Dining That Defies Gravity – Literally
Perhaps the most jaw-dropping innovation aboard Celebrity’s river ships is the Magic Edge cantilevered dining pods that remind me of the Magic Carpet concept on their ocean cruises, which are a first in river cruising. These dining spaces float dramatically above the water, creating an almost surreal experience where guests feel like they’re dining while suspended over Europe’s historic rivers.
But it’s not just about the spectacular setting. These pods serve dynamic, destination-driven menus that evolve with each port, ensuring that your culinary journey mirrors your geographical one. Imagine savoring authentic German cuisine while floating above the Rhine, or enjoying Hungarian specialties as you glide along the Danube – it’s experiential dining at its finest.
Plus, the top-deck bar and restaurant takes elevated dining to new heights, quite literally. With unparalleled panoramic views stretching in every direction, this venue promises to become the heart of onboard social life, where guests can toast spectacular sunsets while sampling world-class cuisine.
A Culinary Paradise on the Water
Celebrity is bringing its ocean cruise dining expertise to the rivers with an impressive eight restaurants and bars – the most dining choices available on any river vessel. This includes beloved Celebrity favorites like the sophisticated Martini Bar, the relaxed Sunset Bar, and the authentic Italian café experience of Café Al Bacio (my favorite hangout as a former barista).
What truly sets this dining program apart is the introduction of 24/7 dining access – a river cruising first. Whether you’re an early riser wanting breakfast before dawn excursions or a night owl craving a midnight snack, the ship caters to every schedule and craving. This level of dining flexibility represents a quantum leap forward in river cruise hospitality.
The destination-driven approach means menus celebrate local flavors and ingredients picked up along the journey. This isn’t just about eating while traveling, it’s about tasting your way through Europe’s diverse culinary landscape.
Staterooms That Redefine River Luxury
Celebrity hasn’t forgotten that your stateroom is your home away from home during the journey. Every accommodation features king beds a luxury often sacrificed on traditional river ships. All have a residential interior design that feels more like a high-end hotel than a typical cruise cabin.
The breakthrough Infinite Veranda (like those on their ocean ships) is a game-changing innovation. At the touch of a button, these spaces transform, essentially allowing guests to customize their room’s configuration based on weather, mood, or activity. Want to feel completely connected to the passing scenery? Open everything up. Prefer a cozy, enclosed space? Transform it instantly.
For those seeking the ultimate luxury experience, the first-ever Skylight Infinite Balcony Suites feature dramatic ceiling windows that flood rooms with natural light. These suites come complete with on-demand butler service and exclusive culinary experiences, creating a truly VIP river cruising experience.
All-Inclusive Excellence
One of the BEST parts of Celebrity’s river cruise offering is its comprehensive all-inclusive approach. Unlike many river cruise lines that nickel-and-dime guests with additional charges, Celebrity includes meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, onboard experiences, and daily shore excursions in its package pricing. Oh, the others SAY they include alcoholic beverages, but it is only ONCE a day and usually limited to a glass of wine in the lounge before dinner.
This all-inclusive philosophy removes the stress of budgeting for extras and will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Whether you want to enjoy a premium cocktail at the Martini Bar, participate in an onboard cooking class, or join a guided walking tour in Vienna, everything is included.
The Rhine and Danube: Europe’s Greatest Hits
The choice to launch on the Rhine and Danube rivers is strategic; these waterways offer access to some of Europe’s favorite destinations. The Rhine journey showcases Germany’s fairy-tale castles, Switzerland’s Alpine beauty, and the Netherlands’ charming windmill landscapes. The Danube route weaves through the heart of Central and Eastern Europe, connecting vibrant cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.
These rivers have been the highways of European civilization for centuries, and Celebrity’s innovative ships will provide an unprecedented way to experience this rich history and culture.
Setting Sail in 2027
While 2027 might seem far away, the early booking opportunity with just a $500 fully refundable deposit makes securing your spot risk-free. Given Celebrity’s reputation for selling out popular itineraries and the innovative nature of these new ships, early booking is likely wise for those who want to be among the first to experience this river cruising revolution.
The Celebrity Difference
Celebrity Cruises has built its reputation on elevating every aspect of the cruise experience, and its entry into river cruising appears to continue this tradition. By combining their signature modern luxury approach with innovations specifically designed for river cruising, they’re creating something entirely new in the European travel landscape.
The future of river cruising isn’t just arriving – it’s here, and it’s more exciting than anyone imagined. With Celebrity’s revolutionary ships set to transform European river travel, the only question is: are you ready to experience the rivers like never before?
Celebrity Cruises’ innovative river ships begin sailing the Rhine and Danube rivers in 2027. Bookings are now open with a fully refundable $500 deposit.
- Learn more and book NOW at Celebrity
- Stay tuned as I have four (that’s right 4) cruises booked on Celebrity by the end of the year including an exciting sneak peek at the all new XCel
