Celebrity Cruises has a diverse fleet, but not all ship classes deliver the same experience. Some offer modern design, high-end dining, and world-class entertainment, while others feel dated, lack key features, or have service inconsistencies.
So how do you know which Celebrity ship class is right for you?
I analyzed thousands of real passenger reviews from Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, Facebook groups, and cruise forums to break down how each class actually performs—beyond just marketing hype.
Celebrity’s Ship Classes Explained
Celebrity Cruises operates three main ship classes, each with a distinct style:
- Edge Class – The newest and most innovative ships, featuring futuristic design, Infinite Verandas, and high-tech entertainment.
- Solstice Class – Elegant and spacious ships with classic cruise charm, well-balanced between modern and traditional.
- Millennium Class – Smaller, older ships that offer a boutique-style experience with a more intimate feel.
There’s also the Xpedition Class, which is completely different—focused on small-ship adventure cruising in the Galápagos.
Looking for a breakdown of every individual Celebrity cruise ship ranked from best to worst? Check out my complete ranking here before you book!
How This Ranking Was Determined
I analyzed real passenger reviews and focused on what actually matters:
- Staterooms & Design – Are the cabins modern, comfortable, and well-planned?
- Dining Experience – How do the main dining, buffets, and specialty restaurants compare?
- Entertainment & Nightlife – Do the shows, live music, and onboard activities deliver?
- Service & Atmosphere – Does the experience match Celebrity’s premium reputation?
- What Cruisers Say – Real feedback from cruisers—what they love and what they don’t.
The “best” ship class ultimately depends on what you value most in a cruise, but this ranking will help you avoid disappointments and pick the perfect fit.
Now, let’s get into which class truly delivers—and which one falls short.
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
What Makes Edge Class Unique?
- Magic Carpet – A cantilevered, movable platform with stunning ocean views.
- Infinite Veranda Staterooms – Transform indoor spaces into open-air balconies.
- Asymmetrical Infinity Pools – A modern pool deck layout for oceanfront lounging.
- Four Themed Main Dining Rooms – Each with a unique menu instead of one generic venue.
- High-Tech Entertainment – LED screens, rotating stages, and immersive theater shows.
- The Retreat – An ultra-exclusive suite enclave with private lounges, dining, and sun decks.
Why Edge Class Is Ranked #1
- Sleek & Modern Design – The most stylish and innovative ships in Celebrity’s fleet.
- Game-Changing Staterooms – Infinite Verandas maximize space and flexibility.
- Next-Level Entertainment – High-tech theater, immersive Eden venue, and vibrant nightlife.
- Unique Dining Experience – Themed dining rooms and upscale specialty restaurants.
- Luxury Perks – Exclusive suite-only areas for a VIP experience.
- Signature Features – The Magic Carpet and the multi-level Sunset Bar add a wow factor.
Edge-Class Ship Design: Modern, But Not Perfect
Celebrity’s Edge-Class ships are known for their open, contemporary layouts. Celebrity Beyond and Ascent expanded these concepts, introducing larger public spaces and improved lounges.
However, some passengers feel that the Infinite Veranda staterooms are a mixed experience. While they increase interior space, some cruisers miss the feel of a traditional balcony with fresh air.
Another controversial design choice is the asymmetrical pool deck. While some love the sleek look, others feel it limits available seating in high-traffic areas.
Overall Verdict: Stunning, spacious, and high-tech—but some traditional cruise lovers may find certain features too modern.
Dining on Edge Class: Elevated, But Not Without Complaints
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 & Nightlife: Must-Sees vs. Skippables
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 more unique performances that feel fresh.
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.
What’s New & What’s Changing?
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.
Is Edge Class Right for You?
Best For:
- Adults who love modern luxury – Stylish lounges, cutting-edge design, and high-end dining.
- First-time cruisers – Impressive tech and entertainment make for a wow factor.
- Social cruisers – Vibrant nightlife, interactive entertainment, and upscale bars.
Not Ideal For:
- Traditionalists – The Infinite Verandas and asymmetrical decks might not appeal to everyone.
- Families with kids – No water slides, minimal kid-focused activities.
- Budget-conscious travelers – Edge-Class ships tend to be more expensive, especially for suite-level experiences.
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
What Makes Solstice Class Unique?
- The Lawn Club – Real grass on the top deck for picnics and relaxation.
- Spacious Staterooms – Larger-than-average cabins with elegant decor.
- AquaClass Staterooms – Exclusive access to Blu restaurant and Persian Garden spa.
- Premium Specialty Dining – Murano and Luminae are standout favorites.
- Sky Observation Lounge – Panoramic ocean views with live music.
- Refined Atmosphere – Silent discos, jazz ensembles, and sophisticated entertainment.
Why Solstice Class Is Ranked #2
- Spacious & Comfortable – Well-designed layouts with airy public spaces.
- Elegant, Adult-Friendly Vibe – A quieter alternative to the tech-heavy Edge Class.
- Great Specialty Dining – Murano and Luminae offer top-tier culinary experiences.
- Unique Outdoor Spaces – The Lawn Club is a one-of-a-kind relaxing area.
- Refined Service – Generally excellent, though some feel stretched staffing at peak times.
Ship Design: Classic Luxury with Timeless Appeal
Solstice-Class ships are often praised for their spacious, elegant interiors. Unlike the modern, asymmetrical design of Edge-Class ships, these ships feel more traditional while maintaining an upscale atmosphere.
The multi-level atrium with a live tree, Sky Observation Lounge, and airy public spaces create a welcoming, laid-back luxury environment.
However, some older ships like Solstice and Eclipse are starting to show signs of wear, and a few areas could use refurbishment.
Overall Verdict: If you love classic cruising charm with a touch of elegance, Solstice-Class is a solid choice.
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 on Solstice Class: Great Specialty Options, but Main Dining Can Be Slow
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: Relaxed, But Not Boring
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: Mostly Smooth, but Some Crowding Issues
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.
Who Should Sail on Solstice Class?
Best For:
- Couples & Older Travelers – Quiet, elegant, and social without being overwhelming.
- Foodies – Excellent specialty dining options and well-rated main dining.
- Scenic Cruisers – Large decks, panoramic lounges, and Lawn Club relaxation.
Not Ideal For:
- Thrill-Seekers – Lacks the high-tech features of Edge-Class.
- Families with Young Kids – No water slides or kid-focused entertainment.
- Those Who Hate Crowds – The buffet and theater can feel packed at times.
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
Why Millennium Class Is Ranked #3
- Small-Ship Feel – More intimate and relaxed than larger Celebrity ships.
- Highly Rated Dining & Service – Blu and Luminae receive standout reviews.
- Scenic Itineraries – Ideal for Alaska, Asia, and transatlantic routes.
- Refurbished Spaces – Ships feature modernized décor inspired by Edge-Class.
Downsides:
- Aging Ships, Even with Updates – Some areas still feel dated.
- Limited Entertainment & Nightlife – Fewer high-energy shows and nightlife options.
- Crowded Buffet & Pool Deck – Can feel congested at peak times.
Celebrity’s Millennium Class ships offer a boutique-style cruise experience with a relaxed atmosphere, personalized service, and scenic itineraries. Launched in the early 2000s and refurbished with Edge-Class-inspired décor, they still retain their classic cruise charm.
These smaller ships provide a more intimate experience, making them perfect for couples and mature travelers who prefer quiet elegance over high-energy entertainment. However, signs of age, limited nightlife, and fewer high-tech features place them below Edge and Solstice Class in this ranking.
Ship Design & Staterooms: Classic Yet Comfortable
Millennium-Class ships retain their classic cruise appeal with modern touches from updates. They provide comfortable staterooms and an intimate onboard atmosphere, though some areas still show signs of age.
Notable Features:
- The Retreat (Suite Guests Only) – Private lounges, sun decks, and VIP dining.
- AquaClass Staterooms – Exclusive access to Blu restaurant and Persian Garden spa.
- Panoramic Lounges & Ocean Views – Great for scenic cruising.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Some Standard Cabins Feel Small – Compared to newer ships, regular staterooms have less space.
- Signs of Age in Certain Areas – Reports of worn-out carpets, minor rust, and outdated furniture.
While suites and premium staterooms receive high marks, some standard cabins may feel compact for those used to more spacious modern layouts.
Dining on Millennium Class: Strong Specialty Options
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.
Entertainment & Nightlife: Relaxed, Not High-Energy
Millennium-Class ships cater to a quieter crowd, offering sophisticated but low-key entertainment instead of large-scale Broadway-style productions.
Entertainment Highlights:
- Live Music & Jazz Lounges – Offers a refined evening atmosphere.
- Silent Discos – A fun, unique alternative to nightclubs.
- Cooking Demonstrations & Wine Tastings – Popular among foodies.
Potential Drawbacks:
- No Large-Scale Broadway Productions – Lacks the high-tech theater experiences found on newer ships.
- Minimal Late-Night Entertainment – Bars and lounges close earlier than on Edge-Class.
If you enjoy casual, refined evening activities, Millennium-Class delivers. But for those seeking high-energy shows or nightlife, it may feel too quiet.
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.
Common Complaints About Millennium-Class Ships
- Signs of Age: Despite refurbishments, some areas still feel outdated.
- Limited Seating in Public Areas: The buffet and pool deck can get crowded.
- Entertainment Variety: Fewer high-energy shows compared to newer Celebrity ships.
Is the Millennium Class Right for You?
Best For:
- Couples & Mature Travelers – Elegant, quiet, and great for scenic itineraries.
- Foodies – Specialty dining is one of the strongest aspects of Millennium Class.
- Scenic Cruisers – Ideal for Alaska, Asia, and relaxed voyages.
Not Ideal For:
- Families with Kids – No water slides or kid-specific entertainment.
- Thrill-Seekers – Lacks high-tech activities and nightlife.
- Those Wanting a Brand-New Ship – Some areas still show signs of age.
Final Verdict: Is Millennium Class Worth It?
Millennium-Class ships offer a boutique, intimate cruise experience with strong service, great specialty dining, and scenic itineraries. They’re perfect for couples and travelers who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere but lack the high-energy features of newer ships.
If you prefer modern, high-tech cruising, an Edge or Solstice-Class ship may be a better fit. But for those who love small-ship luxury with personalized service, Millennium Class is still a solid choice.
Xpedition Class: The Ultra-Luxury Celebrity Experience—But Is It Worth the Price?
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.
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.
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