Celebrity Cruises is revolutionizing the cruise experience by integrating the vibrant cultures of its various port destinations into its newest vessel, the Celebrity Xcel. Central to this innovative approach is a unique venue known as The Bazaar, designed to immerse guests in a dynamic blend of local customs, flavors, and traditions. Unlike anything seen before in the cruising industry, The Bazaar will transform day by day to mirror the cultural essence of each destination on the ship’s itinerary.
The Concept of The Bazaar
Positioned where the Eden restaurant typically resides on other Edge-class ships, The Bazaar is set to become a hub of activity. It combines a marketplace filled with handmade goods from local artisans with immersive experiences such as craft workshops and culinary festivals inspired by the ship’s destinations. Laura Hodges Bethge, the president of Celebrity Cruises, articulates how retaining a connection to the ports—through cooking classes, dance lessons, and art—enriches the cruising experience, making it feel like a seamless continuation of each port’s local culture.
Guests aboard the Celebrity Xcel can look forward to a multitude of unique experiences that will change with every port of call. This fluidity is what makes The Bazaar particularly compelling; shopping options and entertainment will evolve to align with one of four festival themes during each sailing. For instance, guests may dive into rum and chocolate pairings one day, and sample local treats like hot sauces the next. Additionally, educational demonstrations, such as basket-weaving, will provide a hands-on experience that fosters deeper connections with the regions visited.
The cruise line’s commitment to diverse cultural and culinary experiences extends beyond its Caribbean offerings. When the Xcel transitions to Europe in 2026, The Bazaar will adapt its theme to celebrate Mediterranean culture, complete with a vibrant market experience, culinary events, and regional music. A key feature will be an open-kitchen area called Mosaic, where guests can enjoy dishes inspired by the local ingredients native to the Mediterranean coast. This venue will also offer an exclusive Chef’s Table experience, allowing diners to savor exquisite presentations of the region’s traditional cuisine. Moreover, Mosaic will house a culinary school, enabling guests to learn and recreate these beloved dishes at home.
The Engagement Factor: Guests Offering Input
In an intriguing twist, Celebrity Cruises is engaging potential guests in the creation of The Bazaar through its Dream Makers initiative. This interactive feedback loop aims to tailor experiences based on traveler preferences, further personalizing the cruise experience.
Launching in November, the Celebrity Xcel will embark on exciting seven-night cruises from Fort Lauderdale, visiting stunning locales such as the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands. The ship will then shift to European waters, offering memorable 11-night voyages out of iconic cities like Barcelona and Athens. As travelers flock to The Bazaar’s unique offerings, Celebrity Cruises is poised to set a newfound standard for cultural immersion and culinary exploration in the cruise industry.