A New Era of River Cruising
Celebrity Cruises is set to change the future of European river travel with the debut of two groundbreaking ships, the Compass and the Seeker, launching in 2027. These new vessels combine modern design, spacious decks, and panoramic 360-degree views with first-class amenities.
From infinity pools and floating dining pods to a moving cantilevered bar, the ships are designed to offer travelers something entirely new. By focusing on both luxury and immersion, Celebrity Cruises aims to create the ultimate river journey across Europe’s most iconic waterways.
Why Compass and Seeker Are Different
Unlike traditional river ships, the Compass and Seeker will feature more open deck space than any others currently sailing in Europe. This ensures passengers can take in the riverside scenery without obstruction.
Each ship will include:
- Eight restaurants and bars, offering everything from fine dining to casual meals.
- Magic Edge Bar, a moving cantilevered bar that shifts position for ever-changing views.
- Infinity pools, giving guests the chance to relax in style while sailing past castles, vineyards, and historic towns.
The design blends sleek architecture with thoughtful comfort, making these ships floating resorts tailored for both relaxation and exploration.
Strong Demand Ahead of Launch
The excitement around these ships is already high. Early bookings sold out in just six minutes, with travelers placing deposits to secure cabins years before the first voyages.
A seven-day journey from Vienna to Budapest starts at around £3,409 for a river view cabin, while the most luxurious Vista Balcony Suites cost up to £7,844. Each cabin, regardless of category, comes with luxury linens, a complimentary minibar, and stylish décor.
Suite guests enjoy extra perks such as king-sized beds, butler service, priority excursion booking, and exclusive happy hours. For travelers seeking the very best, the suites create a private, indulgent experience.
Dining Without Limits
One of the highlights of the Compass and Seeker is the wide variety of dining options. With eight different restaurants and bars per ship, passengers can enjoy food 24/7.
In addition to traditional dining rooms, there will be innovative features like floating dining pods, giving guests a unique setting for their meals. Whether passengers prefer formal dinners or quick snacks, the ships are designed to cater to every taste.
Itineraries Along Iconic Rivers
The Compass and Seeker will sail the Danube and Rhine, offering 33 seven-day itineraries in their inaugural year.
- Danube Cruises will include stops in Vienna, Bratislava, Passau, and Linz, along with picturesque regions like the Wachau Valley. Guests will also explore towns such as Dürnstein, Regensburg, and Tulln.
- Rhine Cruises will travel through historic cities such as Cologne, Koblenz, and Würzburg, with additional stops in Strasbourg, Mainz, and Düsseldorf.
For holiday travelers, there will also be special Christmas Market and New Year’s sailings, allowing passengers to explore Europe’s festive traditions while enjoying the comfort of luxury ships.
Unique Excursions for Every Traveler
Celebrity Cruises has designed excursions that go beyond sightseeing. On the Compass and Seeker, passengers can choose from cultural, relaxing, or active experiences:
- Austria – private wine tastings in famous vineyards.
- Budapest – visits to historic thermal baths and night tours of the illuminated city.
- Danube riverbanks – cycling tours for active travelers.
- Germany – guided walks through medieval towns like Bamberg and Würzburg.
This mix of options ensures travelers can tailor their journey to match their personal interests, whether it’s food, history, or adventure.
Comfort at Every Level
The Compass and Seeker will feature five categories of rooms, from river view cabins to Vista Balcony suites. Even the entry-level rooms include luxury touches like plush linens and stocked minibars.
For those who upgrade to suites, the experience becomes even more exclusive, with on-demand butlers, private dining opportunities, and access to premium onboard spaces. The focus is on making every guest feel like they are traveling in style, no matter which cabin they choose.
Why These Ships Are a Game-Changer
The introduction of Compass and Seeker shows how fast river cruising is evolving. While ocean cruises have long been known for luxury amenities, Celebrity Cruises is bringing that same level of sophistication to Europe’s rivers.
By combining luxury design, immersive excursions, and innovative onboard features, these ships raise the bar for river travel. The focus is not only on reaching destinations but also on making the journey itself unforgettable.
Looking Ahead
With their launch in 2027, the Compass and Seeker are expected to lead a new chapter in river cruising. They bring together modern design, world-class service, and immersive itineraries that appeal to travelers looking for both comfort and cultural depth.
Whether sailing the Danube’s historic cities or the Rhine’s storybook landscapes, these ships promise to deliver an experience unlike anything else on Europe’s rivers.
Celebrity Cruises’ vision is clear: to turn river travel into a blend of luxury, discovery, and unforgettable memories. With Compass and Seeker, the journey truly becomes as important as the destination.
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