Celebrity Cruises, known for its stylish Edge Series ocean ships and premium service, is branching out into river cruising. During Royal Caribbean Group’s second‑quarter earnings call, CEO Jason Liberty confirmed that the company’s Celebrity brand will debut its first river ships in 2027. Two vessels will launch that year, followed by another two in 2028 as part of an order for ten river ships. Liberty told analysts the expansion is “not a hobby” and that the company is taking river cruising seriously.
According to Celebrity’s announcement, bookings will open in 2025 for voyages starting in 2027. The company describes Celebrity River Cruises as a premium brand that will bring the design and amenities of its award‑winning Edge Series to Europe’s iconic rivers. The ships will have spacious suites with floor‑to‑ceiling windows, locally inspired cuisine and personalized service, promising a hotel‑like experience on some of the world’s most scenic waterways. Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, said the line plans to blend world‑class hospitality with “authentic, destination‑rich itineraries,” delivering an experience unlike any other.
Celebrity has signed an initial order for ten ships, reflecting its strong commitment to the river market. Liberty said the number of ships is not just a reflection of getting comfortable operationally but of the variety of destinations Celebrity intends to serve. The first season will operate on the Rhine and Danube – Europe’s two most popular rivers. A Celebrity spokesperson told Travel Weekly that the river product will be all‑inclusive, with alcoholic drinks, Wi‑Fi and at least one excursion per port included in the fare.
The decision to build a dedicated river fleet stems from guest demand. Liberty noted that about half of the company’s customers have either cruised on a river ship or intend to. By offering a river product, Royal Caribbean Group can retain its loyal customer base within the corporate family. Observers say the move could appeal to travelers who like the small‑ship intimacy and land‑centric itineraries of river cruising but still expect modern luxury features, culinary excellence and curated shore experiences. Celebrity also sees the river cruise market as underpenetrated and ripe for growth, and it aims to “elevate” the category.
Although detailed itineraries and ship plans have not yet been released, early hints suggest Celebrity will design its vessels with large windows and open decks to maximize views of vineyards, castle‑lined valleys and historic cityscapes. Drawing on its ocean‑going experience, the line intends to integrate award‑winning dining venues and a sleek modern aesthetic. The first two ships will likely sail seven‑ to ten‑night itineraries along the Rhine, Main and Danube, connecting ports such as Amsterdam, Cologne, Vienna and Budapest. Future vessels could explore the Rhône and Saône in France or the Douro in Portugal if demand warrants.
Celebrity’s entry into river cruising comes amid intensifying competition. Established river cruise brands such as Viking, AmaWaterways and Avalon continue to launch new ships and expand itineraries, while new entrants including U by Uniworld and Transcend Cruises target younger travelers. Celebrity’s focus on design and service aims to differentiate it. Liberty said he is “focused on how we get it done faster” and that Celebrity wants to deliver river experiences that meet guest expectations rather than simply chase revenue.
Prospective guests will be able to book voyages starting in 2025. Given the popularity of the Rhine and Danube and the limited berth space for river ships in Europe, experts advise interested travellers to join Celebrity’s notification list and be prepared to book early when itineraries are announced. For affluent retired Americans seeking a comfortable way to explore Europe’s heartland, Celebrity River Cruises offers the promise of small‑ship intimacy, inclusive pricing and a familiar brand.
Expert Insight: For luxury travelers, Celebrity’s move into river cruising signals that the line is committed to delivering its modern luxury approach across all types of waterways. The combination of Edge Series design, all‑inclusive amenities and curated shore experiences could set a new standard in river cruising. Watching how Celebrity integrates its ocean‑cruise innovations into this smaller format will be fascinating – and early adopters could enjoy unique inaugural voyages.
