As cruise lines continue to innovate in offering unique experiences, Celebrity Cruises is set to redefine onboard entertainment with its newest ship, the Celebrity Xcel. At the heart of this transformation is The Bazaar, a dynamic venue that aims to immerse guests into the cultures of various ports of call in a way that has never been seen before. This concept transforms the traditional cruise experience by bringing the essence of global destinations onboard, promising an adventure that evolves from day to day, influenced directly by the itinerary.
The Bazaar is not designed as a static environment; rather, it morphs daily, aligning its offerings with the ship’s current destination. This ever-changing marketplace, located in the former Eden restaurant space found on other Edge-class ships, will feature local artisan products and provide guests with hands-on craft experiences and entertainment inspired by the communities the ship visits. According to Laura Hodges Bethge, the president of Celebrity Cruises, The Bazaar is envisioned as a way for travelers to carry the spirit of each destination with them as they journey across the seas. The concept includes curated experiences such as cooking and dance classes, local music performances, and interactive demonstrations that reflect the local culture.
One of the standout features of The Bazaar is its culinary diversity. Guests can look forward to tasting authentic dishes and beverages curated to represent various ports throughout the cruise. The menu will change to reflect one of four distinct festival themes, with offerings ranging from rum and chocolate pairings to spicy hot sauce tastings. Such variety not only excites the palate but also enhances the educational aspect of culinary artistry with demonstrations like basket weaving that marry cultural practices with creativity.
Looking ahead, The Bazaar will transition seamlessly into the Mediterranean experience in 2026, providing guests with festivals and markets inspired by the rich cultures of the region. A highlight will be the open-kitchen concept, Mosaic, where guests can indulge in regional cuisines while learning from skilled chefs. This interactive dining setting will elevate traditional meals into an art form, with options to reserve unique culinary experiences that promise both education and enjoyment. Spice, a more casual dining option, will also feature a rotating menu inspired by local foods, ensuring that the dining experience remains authentic and varied.
Celebrity Cruises is keen on making The Bazaar a collaborative experience, engaging guests directly through its Dream Makers initiative, allowing them to influence the ambiance and offerings of the space. Such direct interaction fosters a community spirit among cruisers and establishes a foundation for excitement and anticipation as they set sail.
The introduction of The Bazaar on Celebrity Xcel represents a robust attempt to enhance cruise travel through cultural immersion, culinary exploration, and collaborative experiences, setting a new standard for what cruise vacations can offer. As the ship embarks on its inaugural journey from Fort Lauderdale, with diverse itineraries planned, the anticipation for this cultural hub is palpable among travelers and cruise aficionados alike.
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