Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) has announced plans to add a sixth Edge Series cruise ship to the Celebrity Cruises fleet in 2028.
The agreement was finalized with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the same company that constructed the previous Edge-class vessels.
Tentatively named Xcel 2 or Edge 6, the new build will be the sister ship of Celebrity Xcel, which is set to debut in November 2025.
RCG President and CEO Jason Liberty praised the Edge Series for its impact on the industry. “Celebrity’s Edge Series redefined premium travel at sea, blending groundbreaking design and unforgettable guest experiences,” Liberty said. “Each ship in this award-winning series has set a new standard for the industry, and Celebrity Xcel, sailing later this year, is no exception.”
Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge expressed excitement about the fleet expansion, adding, “Celebrity Xcel will be the happy place of vacationers globally when she launches in November, and we’re thrilled to be making this commitment to bring her a sister ship in Edge 6.”
Edge Series Highlights and Innovations
The Edge Series includes four ships currently in operation: Celebrity Edge (2018), Celebrity Apex (2019), Celebrity Beyond (2022), and Celebrity Ascent (2023). Each ship is designed to offer guests a closer connection to their destinations through unique features.
One standout amenity is the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered, floating platform that serves as a venue for dining, drinks, and panoramic views. Another is the Infinite Veranda staterooms, which are designed to “erase the boundaries between ship and shore,” allowing passengers to better connect with ports of call.
Celebrity Xcel, debuting later this year, will build on these innovations with eco-friendly features, including the capability to run on methanol, furthering the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Additionally, Celebrity Cruises has introduced a new program called Dream Makers, which allows the public to participate in designing the ship’s interiors and venues. Guests can share their input through live events and online polls, giving them a unique opportunity to influence the future of the fleet.
Edge 6 is part of Royal Caribbean Group’s ongoing fleet expansion, including eight ships across three brands. In addition, Star of the Seas and Celebrity Xcel will join the company this year.
