Celebrity River Cruises has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly expand its operations, with a target to double its fleet size to 20 vessels by the year 2031. This expansion comes as the brand prepares to launch next year, following the remarkable success of its initial sailings, which sold out within minutes last year.
Massive Fleet Expansion and 2028 Bookings Now Open
The cruise line, a subsidiary of the Royal Caribbean Group, has confirmed that it will add 10 new ships to its European river cruise offerings. This strategic move is designed to meet what the company describes as "extraordinary demand" from travellers seeking premium river cruise experiences.
In tandem with this long-term growth strategy, Celebrity River Cruises has officially opened bookings for its 2028 season. The upcoming season will feature more than 160 individual sailings, visiting over 50 distinct destinations across the European continent.
Enhanced Itineraries and Unique Experiences
The 2028 sailings promise a richer travel experience, with the cruise line stating that itineraries will include visits to 80 per cent more ports compared to previous offerings. Passengers can look forward to a diverse array of cultural and seasonal highlights.
- Sailing the iconic Rhine River to explore the picturesque vineyards of Alsace.
- Following the Danube to historic Budapest and its renowned old market halls.
- Experiencing multi-city journeys, such as waking in Prague and concluding the day at a classic Viennese café.
- Special timed voyages to coincide with events like Germany's Gäuboden Festival in Straubing, the vibrant Dutch tulip season, and Europe's famous Christmas markets.
Pricing for these adventures starts from £2,115 per person. This example fare is based on a six-night sailing departing from Nuremberg, Germany, on 16 November 2028, with a final destination in Vienna, Austria.
Leadership Cites Unprecedented Consumer Demand
Jason Liberty, Chairman and Chief Executive of Royal Caribbean Group, commented on the driving force behind the expansion. "Guest demand for Celebrity River Cruises has exceeded our expectations, and expanding the fleet allows us to bring this highly anticipated experience to even more travelers," he stated.
Liberty emphasised the strategic value of the move, noting, "With Celebrity’s expansion into river, we’re strengthening our connected vacation ecosystem, offering more choice, more access, and more reasons for guests to stay with us."
Construction Underway Following Record Sales
The physical expansion is already in motion. Construction on the new fleet has begun, with the first steel for the debut river ship, named the Celebrity Compass, being cut just last week.
Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, highlighted the brand's initial market success. "Our inaugural 2027 Celebrity River Cruises season sold out in under six minutes – a testament to how much guests value the unmatched hospitality and service Celebrity delivers," she said.
Bethge added, "To meet this extraordinary demand, we're thrilled to open 2028 sailings featuring 80 per cent more European destinations, five ships, and more than 160 itineraries. There are now more ways than ever to experience Europe's rivers ‘The Celebrity Way’."
This fleet doubling initiative positions Celebrity River Cruises to become one of the largest river cruise brands operating in Europe by the turn of the decade, marking a significant new chapter in luxury travel on the continent's historic waterways.
