Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) has officially signed an agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique to construct the sixth ship in Celebrity Cruises’ prestigious Edge Series. Scheduled for delivery in 2028, this new vessel, informally referred to as “Edge 6” or “Xcel 2,” promises to push the boundaries of luxury cruising. Edge 6 will join its groundbreaking predecessors: Celebrity Xcel (set to debut in November 2025), Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Apex, and Celebrity Edge.
The Edge Series by Celebrity Cruises has redefined premium cruising by combining revolutionary ship designs with unparalleled guest experiences. The upcoming Edge 6 will continue this tradition with innovative features like the Magic Carpet—a first-of-its-kind floating platform suspended over the ocean—and Infinite Veranda staterooms that seamlessly blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Royal Caribbean’s Commitment to Excellence and Sustainability
Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, emphasized the significance of this addition: “The partnership with Chantiers de l’Atlantique to build Edge 6 represents another milestone in our journey to provide world-class vacations while upholding our commitment to responsible and sustainable growth.”
Royal Caribbean’s efforts to prioritize both environmental sustainability and guest satisfaction set it apart in the cruise industry. Each ship in the Edge Series, including the new Edge 6, is designed with cutting-edge green technologies that minimize its environmental impact. From energy-efficient engines to advanced wastewater treatment systems, these ships demonstrate Royal Caribbean’s commitment to eco-friendly innovation.
Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series: A New Era in Luxury Travel
Celebrity Cruises has set a high standard for the industry with its Edge Series, combining opulence with technological ingenuity. Each ship in the series features signature elements that redefine cruising.
- Magic Carpet: A game-changing engineering marvel, this floating platform moves up and down the side of the ship, transforming into different venues such as a bar, restaurant, or lounge.
- Infinite Veranda Staterooms: These rooms offer an immersive experience by allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted ocean views. With a touch of a button, the room transforms, blending indoor comfort with outdoor serenity.
- Unrivaled Culinary Options: The Edge Series includes a variety of specialty dining options inspired by global cuisines, all overseen by Michelin-starred chefs.
- State-of-the-Art Entertainment: Guests enjoy world-class entertainment, including Broadway-caliber productions, live music, and high-tech immersive shows.
With Edge 6, Celebrity Cruises aims to raise the bar even further, offering an unforgettable combination of luxury, adventure, and innovation.
Royal Caribbean’s Strategic Focus on Fleet Expansion
The addition of Edge 6 is part of Royal Caribbean’s broader strategy to expand its fleet with innovative, high-performing ships. Over the years, the company has introduced cutting-edge vessels that cater to a wide range of guests, from seasoned cruisers to first-time travelers.
In the third quarter of 2024, Royal Caribbean launched Utopia of the Seas, a groundbreaking ship designed to transform short Caribbean cruises. Utopia has been especially popular with millennials and younger guests, offering vibrant entertainment options, modern dining experiences, and adrenaline-pumping activities. Its debut has exceeded expectations in both ticket sales and onboard spending, proving the demand for innovative cruising experiences.
Building on the success of Icon of the Seas, the company recently announced plans to launch a fourth Icon-class ship in 2027. This new vessel will complement the anticipated debut of Star of the Seas in mid-2025. Additionally, the seventh Oasis-class ship, set for a 2028 launch, reflects Royal Caribbean’s commitment to continuous fleet expansion.
The Future of Cruising: Why Edge 6 Stands Out
The launch of Edge 6 reflects Royal Caribbean’s dedication to staying ahead in an increasingly competitive cruise industry. As the demand for luxurious and unique cruising experiences grows, Edge 6 is designed to meet and exceed these expectations.
The ship’s advanced features, innovative design, and commitment to sustainability will appeal to a wide range of travelers, from families seeking adventure to couples looking for romance. Moreover, its eco-friendly initiatives align with the growing consumer demand for responsible travel options.
Royal Caribbean’s strategy of introducing new ships with fresh concepts and exciting features ensures that it remains a leader in the cruise industry. Edge 6 will not only enhance the Celebrity Cruises brand but also solidify Royal Caribbean’s reputation as a pioneer in luxury and innovation.
Redefining Luxury at Sea with Edge 6
With the announcement of Edge 6, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. continues its tradition of delivering premium cruising experiences that combine state-of-the-art technology, environmental sustainability, and unmatched luxury. Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series has already set a high standard for modern cruising, and Edge 6 is poised to elevate this legacy even further.
Whether it’s the breathtaking Magic Carpet, the seamless comfort of Infinite Veranda staterooms, or the ship’s eco-conscious design, Edge 6 promises to offer an unforgettable experience for guests. Royal Caribbean’s strategic focus on fleet expansion and innovation ensures that it remains at the forefront of the cruise industry, setting new benchmarks for excellence.
As travelers increasingly seek unique and luxurious experiences at sea, the launch of Edge 6 in 2028 will undoubtedly mark a new era in premium cruising.
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