Celebrity Cruises‘ newest ship, Celebrity Xcel, has completed its first ocean sailing, with the sea trials marking a critical step in preparing the vessel for service.

Taking place on Saturday 13 September near the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France where the ship has been under construction, the successful trials confirm it is on track for its November debut.

Under the guidance of Captain ‘Kirk’ Kyriakos Matragkas, the ship successfully completed “a series of maneuverability skills designed to test the ship’s functional and operational capabilities.”

According to Celebrity Cruises, the new vessel passed these tests “with flying colours,” setting the scene for final preparations before it welcomes its first guests.

Celebrity Xcel is the fifth ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series, which focuses on innovative design, high-end amenities and elevated experiences.

“Celebrity Xcel takes forward the best of the Edge Series while introducing seven new spaces that will deliver an unmatched vacation experience,” the company stated.

After completing final outfitting and preparations in France, Celebrity Xcel will head to Fort Lauderdale, where it will sail seven-night itineraries through the Caribbean. The alternating routes will include destinations such as The Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Plata, as well as St. Thomas and St. Maarten.

The ship’s future plans also include a highly anticipated move to Europe. In summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel will embark on its inaugural European season, sailing Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona and Athens which range from seven to 11 nights. Highlights of the program include “all new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal,” according to the cruise line.