Celebrity Cruises has announced an ambitious new sailing program for 2027–28, designed to offer travelers a richer connection with destinations around the globe. Featuring over 175 itineraries to more than 180 ports across multiple continents, the new schedule focuses on deeper immersion through more than 60 overnight stays and over 115 port calls lasting 12 hours or longer.
This expanded approach allows guests to explore cities, towns, and natural wonders at a more relaxed pace, providing time to experience both the iconic highlights and the hidden treasures often missed on shorter visits.
Europe: Cultural Capitals and Scenic Shores
Nearly half of Celebrity’s fleet will be positioned in Europe for the 2027–28 season. Eight ships, including the newest Edge-class vessels Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Ascent, and Celebrity Apex, will sail itineraries across the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, and the Arctic Circle.
Mediterranean routes will cover over two dozen countries, offering extended visits to cultural powerhouses such as Barcelona, Rome, and Athens, alongside smaller gems like Dubrovnik, Monte Carlo, and Santorini. Overnight stays will allow travelers to enjoy vibrant nightlife, attend cultural festivals, and indulge in authentic regional cuisine.
In Northern Europe, passengers can sail to Scandinavia and even beyond the Arctic Circle, with calls to Norwegian fjords and cities such as Copenhagen and Reykjavik. These longer port visits allow for deeper cultural interaction and unique experiences like midnight sun excursions.
Alaska and Hawaii: From Glaciers to Volcanoes
For those seeking natural beauty, Celebrity will deploy three ships — Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Summit — to Alaska. Departures from Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward will offer extended stays in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka, giving guests more time to experience glacier hikes, wildlife tours, and scenic fjord cruising.
Select itineraries will include pre- or post-cruise land tours into Alaska’s interior, visiting destinations such as Talkeetna, Denali, and Anchorage.
In Hawaii, open-jaw itineraries between the islands and the U.S. West Coast will feature extended stays in Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai. These longer stops give guests time to explore volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and cultural traditions unique to the islands.
Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific: Year-Round Discovery
Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice will sail year-round in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, covering over 30 destinations. Highlights include the Great Barrier Reef, Kangaroo Island, and New Zealand’s fjordlands.
Extended overnight stays in cities such as Adelaide and Cairns will allow guests to enjoy wine country tours, indigenous art experiences, and the vibrant culinary scenes of Australia’s coastal cities. Remote island visits in the South Pacific add another layer of adventure for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Japan and Asia: Festivals, Tradition, and Modern Life
Celebrity Millennium will return to Japan for the 2027–28 season, sailing from Tokyo and visiting key Asian ports in South Korea, China, Vietnam, and Singapore.
Overnight stays in Tokyo, Kyoto (via Osaka), Kobe, and Aomori will give guests the chance to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, from participating in tea ceremonies to witnessing traditional theater performances. Some itineraries are timed to coincide with major festivals, including the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Nebuta Festival in Aomori.
Canada, New England, and Bermuda: Heritage and Coastal Charm
Celebrity Silhouette will operate roundtrip voyages from Boston, visiting picturesque New England towns and Canadian maritime cities. Overnight stays in Quebec City will offer guests the chance to explore its European-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and French-inspired cuisine.
Seven-night Bermuda sailings from Cape Liberty will feature double overnight stays, providing time for beach visits, golf, and exploring the island’s unique culture and history.
Why Extended Stays Matter
This shift toward longer port visits reflects a growing trend in the travel industry: the desire for meaningful, immersive experiences rather than quick stopovers. Extended stays allow travelers to go beyond headline attractions, supporting local economies through greater spending on dining, excursions, and artisanal goods.
For Celebrity Cruises, the approach aligns with the principles of sustainable tourism, as longer visits often lead to more thoughtful, less rushed exploration. Travelers can engage in eco-friendly excursions, participate in community projects, or simply enjoy the rhythm of local life.
Booking and Future Announcements
Bookings for Europe, Japan, and Canada/New England itineraries open August 5, 2025. Alaska and Hawaii sailings will be available from September 9, and Australia/New Zealand voyages open September 30. Additional announcements for Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Galápagos itineraries will follow.
The Future of Cruising with Celebrity
With its 2027–28 schedule, Celebrity Cruises is redefining what luxury cruising can offer. By focusing on extended stays and deeper immersion, the line is setting a new standard for meaningful travel. Whether exploring European capitals, navigating Alaskan glaciers, diving into Pacific island culture, or celebrating Japanese traditions, travelers will find these itineraries offer more than a voyage — they offer an unforgettable journey.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
