Celebrity Cruises has a diverse fleet, but not all classes deliver the same experience. Some ships shine with sleek, modern design and top-tier entertainment, while others show their age or fall short in amenities and dining options.
Celebrity Cruises has three main ship classes: Edge Class, Solstice Class, and Millennium Class. Each offers a unique cruising experience, from the ultra-modern design and innovative spaces of Edge Class to the elegant yet classic feel of Solstice Class and the slightly smaller, more intimate Millennium Class.
In addition to these, Celebrity also has an expedition fleet, which at its peak included three vessels—Celebrity Flora, Celebrity Xpedition, and Celebrity Xploration. However, today, only Celebrity Flora remains, exclusively sailing in the Galápagos Islands.
To create this best-to-worst ranking, I went through thousands of real passenger reviews from Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, Facebook groups, and various cruise forums. Whether you’re planning your first Celebrity voyage or you’re a loyal cruiser looking for your next adventure, this guide will break down the differences between ship classes and help you find the perfect fit.
That said, the “best” Celebrity ship class is ultimately subjective—it all comes down to what you value most in a cruise. Some ships cater to those who love sleek, modern design and high-energy entertainment, while others provide a quieter, more traditional experience. I also included the Xpedition Class, but since it’s focused on small-scale, adventure cruising, it’s more of a bonus mention rather than a direct competitor to the main fleet.
1. Edge Class (Newest, Most Innovative)
Ships: Celebrity Xcel (Nov 2025), Celebrity Beyond (2022), Celebrity Edge (2018), Celebrity Ascent (2023), Celebrity Apex (2021)
Passenger Capacity: 3,260 to 3,405
Key Features: Magic Carpet, Infinite Veranda staterooms, asymmetrical infinity pools, The Retreat suite enclave, immersive Eden venue, four themed main dining rooms, high-tech theater shows
Why It’s Ranked #1:
- Features like the Magic Carpet, Infinite Veranda staterooms, and asymmetrical infinity pools redefine modern cruising.
- The Retreat suite enclave offers an ultra-luxurious, private retreat for suite guests, setting Edge-class apart in premium cruising.
- Four themed main dining rooms and specialty venues like Le Voyage by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud provide a top-tier culinary experience.
- The high-tech theater, Eden’s interactive experiences, and lively nightlife venues like the Martini Bar offer a wide range of entertainment.
Celebrity’s newest ship class, Edge-class, stands out for its modern design and high-end amenities. Unique features include the Magic Carpet, a movable cantilevered platform, and Infinite Veranda staterooms, which transform into open-air spaces.
Other highlights include asymmetrical infinity pools, the immersive Eden venue, and The Retreat, an exclusive suite enclave. With upscale dining, entertainment, and cutting-edge technology, Edge-class ships offer a refined yet upscale cruise experience.
Ship Design
The Edge-class ships are widely praised for their spacious, modern design. Passengers appreciate the stylish decor and well-planned layout, which create an open and inviting atmosphere. Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent take this further with expanded deck space and larger venues, enhancing the overall sense of openness.
However, not all design choices have been universally loved. The Infinite Veranda staterooms, for instance, have been a divisive feature. While some enjoy the additional interior space and technological convenience, others miss the traditional balcony where they can sit outside in fresh air.
Additionally, certain layout decisions have drawn criticism. The asymmetrical pool deck and reduced central atrium space have led to complaints about limited seating in popular areas. Some passengers also feel that the public space design—particularly on Celebrity Edge and Apex—favors exclusive venues like The Retreat at the expense of general passenger areas. Others have noted the lack of a full 360-degree ocean view, a common expectation for cruisers.
Dining
Dining is a standout feature on the Edge-class, with many cruisers appreciating the four complimentary main dining rooms that offer different themes and cuisines. Specialty dining venues such as Le Voyage by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud are also popular. Despite this, some loyal Celebrity guests have expressed disappointment in the main dining room meals. They believe cost-cutting has led to a noticeable drop in quality compared to past sailings.
Entertainment
Entertainment on Edge-class ships offers a mix of innovative productions and lively venues. The high-tech theater is a standout, featuring massive LED screens, rotating stages, and interactive special effects that create visually stunning productions. Unlike traditional cruise theaters, it offers a more modern and flexible design, allowing for unique performances that feel fresh and unique.
For a more unconventional experience, Eden is a three-story, multi-sensory venue where live performances, aerialists, and theatrical storytelling take center stage. The space transitions from a relaxed daytime retreat to a dynamic, visually stunning nightlife spot.
Meanwhile, the Martini Bar in the Grand Plaza is the heart of the ship’s social scene, where bartenders put on a show and the atmosphere transforms throughout the night with dramatic lighting and live music.
Evolving Features
Each new Edge-class ship has introduced refinements and improvements based on feedback. Celebrity Beyond introduced an extra deck and larger public spaces. The Sunset Bar, now multi-level and open-air, has become a passenger favorite.
Celebrity Ascent introduced more entertainment and nightlife options, addressing concerns about limited live music. The upcoming Celebrity Xcel will introduce The Bazaar, a multi-use venue replacing Eden, along with Mosaic & Spice, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant.
Who the Edge Class Is Best For
Celebrity’s Edge-class is best for adults who appreciate modern design, upscale dining, and immersive entertainment. If you’re looking for a more family-friendly cruise with water slides and kid-focused activities, it may not be the best fit. First-time cruisers will likely love the innovative amenities, while some longtime Celebrity fans may feel the ships stray from tradition. Though opinions vary, the Edge-class brings a fresh, sophisticated take on cruising.
2. Solstice Class (Adult-Friendly Atmosphere, Spacious)
Ships: Celebrity Reflection (2012), Celebrity Silhouette (2011), Celebrity Eclipse (2010), Celebrity Equinox (2009), Celebrity Solstice (2008)
Passenger Capacity: 2,850 to 3,050
Key Features: The Lawn Club with real grass, spacious and well-appointed staterooms, AquaClass with exclusive Blu dining and Persian Garden access, specialty dining including Murano and Luminae, Sky Observation Lounge with panoramic views
Why It’s Ranked #2:
- Spacious and well-designed staterooms provide more comfort than many competitors
- Excellent specialty dining, though Main Dining Room service can be slow and the buffet overcrowded.
- Entertainment caters to a sophisticated crowd, featuring silent discos, live music, and engaging performances. Although some say it’s lacking the high-energy appeal of other cruise lines.
- The Lawn Club offers a unique outdoor experience, with real grass and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Service is generally excellent, with a refined and attentive crew, though some cruisers feel that staffing levels are stretched at times.
The Solstice-class ships from Celebrity Cruises are some of the most popular ships in the market, known for their innovative design and upscale atmosphere. One of the most distinctive features of this class is the Lawn Club, a half-acre of real grass on the top deck where passengers can unwind or have a picnic with ocean views. Additionally, the multi-level atrium with a live tree, the spacious and well-appointed cabins, and the Sky Observation Lounge with panoramic windows create an airy, elegant feel.
Spacious Staterooms & AquaClass
One of the biggest highlights of the Solstice class is its spacious staterooms and well-thought-out design. Compared to many competitors, even the standard balcony cabins are larger than the industry average, providing more comfort for guests.
The AquaClass cabins, which offer exclusive dining at Blu and access to the Persian Garden thermal suite, are praised for their focus on wellness. Reviewers consistently appreciate the well-appointed bathrooms and comfortable bedding. However, some note that older ships in the class, particularly Solstice and Eclipse, are starting to show signs of wear and could use refurbishment.
Dining Experiences
Dining is a major highlight of Solstice-class ships, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. The Main Dining Room receives mixed reviews, with many passengers praising the variety of dishes but some noting that service can be slow and food temperature inconsistent. Specialty restaurants, however, receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly Murano for its refined French cuisine and Luminae, the exclusive suite guest restaurant.
Some guests have pointed out that the buffet, Oceanview Café, can get crowded at peak hours, making it harder to find seating. Additionally, while the Qsine restaurant and its “Le Petit Chef” animated dining experience is a hit on some ships, others feel the novelty wears off quickly and the price is not justified. Celebrity Equinox, which underwent the most extensive refurbishment among the class, features a redesigned Oceanview Café with a more modern marketplace concept, improving food flow and variety.
Entertainment & Activities
When it comes to entertainment and activities, Solstice-class ships cater more to adults looking for a refined but not overly formal experience. The silent discos in the Grand Foyer, where guests wear wireless headphones to dance to different music channels, are a unique and well-loved offering. Live music is a strong point, with jazz ensembles, classical quartets, and rock cover bands providing varied entertainment.
The theater shows receive mixed reviews, with some passengers finding them polished and engaging while others feel they lack the energy of productions on other lines. Glass-blowing demonstrations, once a hallmark of Celebrity’s Solstice, Equinox, and Eclipse, have been replaced on later ships by the Lawn Club Grill, an interactive dining experience available on Celebrity Silhouette and Reflection. Celebrity Eclipse, in particular, is noted for its sophisticated interior decor and strong culinary reputation, setting it apart from its sister ships.
Passenger Flow & Service Concerns
A consistent area of critique for the Solstice-class ships is their passenger flow and layout, particularly in areas like the buffet and theater. The Oceanview Café can feel congested, especially during peak meal times, and securing a seat can be challenging. Similarly, some guests have noted that the theater lacks adequate seating for popular shows, requiring early arrival to get a good spot.
Another downside noted by multiple reviewers is that, while the service is generally excellent, there have been instances where staffing levels felt stretched. Some cruisers also feel that Celebrity has become more aggressive with upselling, with frequent promotions for beverage packages, spa services, and specialty dining.
Overall Passenger Experience
Solstice-class ships offer a premium cruise experience with elegance and a relaxed, social vibe. Ideal for couples, older travelers, and families, they are known for their refined dining, great entertainment, and spacious decks. While they lack the high-tech features of Edge-class ships, their timeless design and strong service keep loyal cruisers coming back.
3. Millennium Class (Smaller, Classic Luxury)
Ships: Celebrity Constellation (2002), Celebrity Infinity (2001), Celebrity Summit (2001), Celebrity Millenium (2000)
Passenger Capacity: 2,138 to 2,218
Key Features: Intimate boutique-hotel atmosphere, The Retreat for suite guests, Blu for AquaClass passengers, panoramic ocean views, heated indoor pools
Why It’s Ranked #3:
- Smaller size offers a refined, personal experience, but fewer entertainment options than larger ships.
- Recent refurbishments add modern style, yet some ships still show signs of wear.
- Service and dining are highly rated, but the buffet can get crowded and main dining can be slow.
- Great for scenic destinations with ocean views, though pool areas can feel packed.
- Relaxed and elegant, perfect for couples, but may feel too quiet for those wanting more nightlife.
Celebrity Cruises’ Millennium-class ships offer an intimate, boutique-hotel-style experience with modern updates. Launched in the early 2000s and recently refurbished, they feature Edge-class-inspired decor, spacious staterooms, and luxurious public spaces.
Highlights include The Retreat for suite guests, Blu for AquaClass passengers, a grand two-story dining room, and specialty restaurants. Designed for scenic itineraries, they excel in destinations like Alaska and Asia, with heated indoor pools and expansive viewing areas enhancing the experience.
Service & Atmosphere
Reviewers have noted several highlights of the Millennium-class ships, particularly the service and atmosphere. Many passengers appreciate the relaxed yet upscale vibe, which avoids the overwhelming crowds and chaos of larger mega-ships. The smaller size allows for more personalized service, and the crew frequently earns high praise for their attentiveness and friendliness.
Dining
Guests appreciate the range of dining options available, with many enjoying meals in the main dining room and specialty restaurants. While Blu and Luminae are frequently praised for their fresh and flavorful dishes, experiences at the Oceanview Café buffet have been more varied, with some finding it crowded during peak times.
Service in the main dining room is generally well-received, though occasional delays have been noted when the restaurant is busy. The drink package provides a convenient option for many, though some guests have commented on additional charges for certain beverages.
Ship Age & Maintenance
One of the most recurring complaints across Millennium-class ships is their age, particularly on the Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Infinity. Despite refurbishments, some reviewers have noted signs of wear and tear, including rust, dated furnishings, and maintenance issues.
Some guests have reported cleanliness concerns, such as mold in showers and worn-out carpets, while others have found the ship’s smaller cabins underwhelming. A few reviewers also felt that the entertainment, while enjoyable, was repetitive or lacked variety.
Layout & Public Spaces
Another divisive aspect of the Millennium-class ships is the layout and flow of public spaces. While many appreciate the intimate feel, others have found that some areas—particularly the buffet and pool deck—can feel congested. The Solarium and thalassotherapy pool are well-liked features, but during peak times, seating can be scarce.
Some ships in the class have subtle layout differences; for example, while all feature the Sky Lounge with panoramic views, some passengers have found certain venues to be better maintained on one ship compared to another.
Is the Millennium Class Right for You?
Millennium-class ships provide a refined cruise experience with timeless elegance, excellent service, and modern luxury. The ships in this class debuted over two decades ago, and while they’ve been refurbished, they don’t feel as cutting-edge as Celebrity’s newer classes.
That said, these ships remain a great choice for couples and mature travelers. They offer a relaxed, refined atmosphere without the overwhelming size of newer mega-ships.
Bonus: Xpedition class (Ultra-Luxury, Expedition-Focused)
Ships: Celebrity Flora (2019)
Passenger Capacity: 100
Key Features: All-suite accommodations, guided Galapagos excursions, Infinite Veranda staterooms, Ecuadorian-inspired dining, expert naturalist-led lectures, open-air stargazing deck
The Celebrity Xpedition Class, now solely represented by Celebrity Flora, is a luxury expedition ship designed for the Galapagos Islands. Carrying just 100 passengers, it offers an intimate, all-inclusive experience. Unlike larger Celebrity ships, Flora focuses less on entertainment, offering a more immersive, nature-focused experience instead of casinos, theaters, and multiple dining venues. The ship offers twice-daily guided excursions led by Galapagos-certified naturalists, bringing guests up close to the region’s unique biodiversity.
Ship Design & Accommodations
A standout feature of the Flora is its exceptional crew-to-passenger ratio, which ensures personalized service. Many reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness and deep knowledge of the Galapagos ecosystem, with passengers feeling genuinely welcomed and valued.
The ship’s design, featuring spacious common areas and luxurious all-suite accommodations, has also received positive feedback. Guests appreciate the seamless excursion process, which minimizes waiting times and maximizes exploration.
Suites on Celebrity Flora feature either an Infinite Veranda or a traditional balcony. The Infinite Veranda extends the living space with a retractable floor-to-ceiling window, offering unobstructed ocean views and an indoor-outdoor feel. This design is particularly well-received for wildlife viewing and relaxation. However, some guests prefer a classic balcony suite, as the Infinite Veranda does not allow them to step outside fully.
Dining Experience
There are two main dining venues on Celebrity Flora: the Seaside Restaurant and the Ocean Grill. The Seaside Restaurant serves as the ship’s main dining venue, offering buffet-style breakfast and lunch with daily themed options, such as Ecuadorian, Italian, and Mexican cuisine. In the evening, it transforms into an à la carte experience, with a rotating menu featuring high-quality seafood, tender steaks, and gourmet vegetarian dishes.
For a more relaxed and scenic option, the Ocean Grill provides an open-air dining experience with breathtaking views of the Galapagos. It is a popular spot for casual lunches during the day, but its true highlight is the special dinner under the stars, where guests enjoy freshly grilled seafood, ceviche, and Ecuadorian-inspired dishes in an unforgettable setting.
While Flora lacks the specialty restaurants of larger Celebrity ships, the combination of Seaside’s indoor dining and Ocean Grill’s open-air elegance ensures a varied, immersive experience.
Atmosphere & Entertainment
The ship’s onboard atmosphere is different from traditional Celebrity cruises—there are no formal nights or flashy entertainment, only relaxed cocktail hours, acoustic music, and informative lectures from expert naturalists. Passengers often gather in the Discovery Lounge, where naturalists lead engaging presentations about the Galapagos ecosystem, followed by casual discussions with fellow travelers over drinks.
Evening entertainment is low-key and designed to complement the expedition experience rather than distract from it. Guests can enjoy guitar performances in the main lounge, unwind with a book in a cozy alcove with floor-to-ceiling windows, or take in the night sky from the top deck’s open-air seating. On select nights, a seafood buffet under the stars offers a unique dining experience, fostering a communal and relaxed atmosphere after a day of exploration.
Guest Feedback
While many travelers described their Galapagos journey aboard Flora as a “bucket-list” experience, not all feedback was positive. Some veteran luxury cruisers who had sailed with lines like Crystal and Seabourn felt the ship did not fully match the ultra-luxury experience they had expected.
Complaints weren’t common but included dissatisfaction with cabin layouts, limited dining variety, and a feeling that excursions, while well-organized, did not always meet expectations in terms of wildlife encounters. Some travelers felt that the Galapagos, while unique, did not live up to the hype, suggesting that comparable wildlife experiences could be found elsewhere at a lower price.
Expedition Experience
Where Flora truly excels is in its ability to offer an expedition-style cruise that combines high-end comfort with deep immersion in the natural wonders of the Galapagos. Reviewers frequently mention how well-organized every aspect of the trip was, from airport transfers in Quito to the guided hikes and snorkeling excursions. The ship’s amenities, such as complimentary snorkeling gear, stargazing sessions, and expert-led wildlife briefings, further enhance the experience.
Who Is Celebrity Flora Best For?
The Celebrity Flora is best suited for affluent, adventure-seeking travelers who value personalized service and immersive wildlife experiences. It appeals most to couples aged 50+ and those looking for an exclusive way to explore the Galapagos. Keep in mind that guests looking for a traditional cruise atmosphere with large-scale entertainment may find Flora too quiet.
Which Celebrity Cruise Ship Class Should You Choose?
Choosing the right Celebrity Cruise ship class depends on what kind of cruise you’re looking for. If you crave cutting-edge design, high-tech entertainment, and upscale dining, the Edge Class ships are the best choice. These ships are the most modern in the fleet, featuring innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms, asymmetrical infinity pools, and unique venues like the Magic Carpet and Eden.
For a more traditional yet elegant experience, the Solstice Class offers spacious staterooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and signature features like the Lawn Club—an actual grassy deck for lounging and picnicking. This class is perfect for those who enjoy a sophistication and casual comfort, with strong specialty dining options and a good balance of entertainment.
If you prefer a smaller, more intimate cruise experience, the Millennium Class might be the right fit. These ships, though the oldest in the fleet, have been updated with modern decor and provide a boutique-hotel-style ambiance. Their smaller size makes them ideal for scenic itineraries like Alaska and Asia, offering a quieter, more personalized experience.
For those looking for something completely different, the Xpedition Class is in a league of its own. Designed for adventure seekers, Celebrity Flora—the sole remaining ship in this class—sails exclusively in the Galápagos Islands, offering an immersive, all-inclusive expedition experience. With a small capacity of just 100 guests, this ultra-luxury vessel focuses on nature and expert-led excursions rather than large-scale entertainment.
