Celebrity Cruises is expanding its UK sales team to prioritise supporting travel agents. It comes ahead of its biggest season of European sailings this summer. Celebrity is recruiting for three new UK roles – two Strategic Account Managers and one Regional Sales Manager. The new recruits will be responsible for developing strategic trade plans and building new relationships. Claire Stirrup, Sales Director said “I am thrilled to be bolstering the sales team to ensure our agents across the UK get the dedicated support they deserve.” Celebrity’s recruitment drive continues beyond the three newly created roles. The cruise line is hiring for a replacement Trade Marketing Manager to join the team this summer. Open vacancies can be found at the Royal Caribbean Group LinkedIn page.

Celebrity Cruises reported its highest single day booking value ever for the UK and Ireland.  Edge Series ship, Celebrity Apex, which homeports in Southampton for the first time from May 2024, yielded the record results It signals the most successful product launch of a new ship into the UK market. The brand also achieved its highest booking value per guest from the UK. Travel partners were quick to respond, reporting record-breaking sales, with one agent claiming a six-figure booking yield. The line has seen a huge rise in travel partners consulting Celebrity Central agent portal, with a 43% increase in visitors. Celebrity Cruises Managing Director, Jo Rzymowska, said: “The response in such a short space of time has been phenomenal.” Support for agents is further bolstered by new training modules featuring Celebrity Apex from Southampton available soon. The line is committed to hosting 600 agents on Celebrity Apex in 2023, from ship visits to Seminars at Sea.

 

Celebrity Eclipse debuts in the South Pacific region, setting sail for world-class beaches, majestic fjords, and enchanting tropical islands

  For travellers with their heart set on a dream holiday sailing the captivating coastlines of Down Under, the wait is finally over. Today marks a new beginning, as Celebrity Cruises celebrates its highly anticipated return to Australian and New Zealand waters.   On Saturday, Celebrity Eclipse set sail from Sydney, Australia, allowing guests to Journey WonderFULL on a 12-night itinerary exploring the ruggedly scenic wilderness of New Zealand. This voyage is the first of 17 sailings departing from Sydney and Auckland through April 2023, and the first for Celebrity Eclipse in Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific waters.   Guests onboard the award-winning Celebrity Eclipse will be treated to experiences as enchanting as the cosmopolitan cities, stunning beaches, and exotic wildlife they will explore as part of the season’s enhanced onboard and shore-side experiences, with a focus on luxury and relaxation, destination immersion, and culinary exploration.   “The return Down Under has been long-awaited but someday has finally arrived! Celebrity Eclipse is the first Celebrity ship to sail this region for 930 days - a momentous occasion for the brand and our team members who have worked so hard to get to this point; and the first of many WonderFULL sailings ahead,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “Returning to this region is another significant milestone in the industry’s global recovery, as we sail forward into a bright future.”   Celebrity Cruises Vice President and Managing Director of Australia and APAC, Tim Jones, added, “We’ve been patiently waiting for this moment for so long, and to finally see the freshly painted blue hull of Celebrity Eclipse slice through the waters of Sydney Harbour didn’t disappoint. We were one of the remaining major cruise markets to return to service, and we are really proud to be contributing to the tourism industries of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific once more, alongside rebuilding the economy of key coastal communities.   “Continuing our momentum in the region, next year we’ll be taking the guest experience to the ‘Edge’ with the debut season of Celebrity Edge Down Under! It’s the great outdoors that makes this region truly exceptional and we can’t wait to welcome an equally exceptional ship that’s been uniquely designed to connect guests with their surroundings. Whether you’re flying Down Under to join us, or stepping aboard from your front door, Celebrity Edge is a chance to explore our exotic landscapes like never before, all while sailing in complete luxury. ”   Highlights of Celebrity’s 2022-23 season Down Under include:  

• Discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef from above and below with a choice of multiple exceptional experiences from privately chartered yachts to scenic helicopter rides
• Savour some of the country’s most revered wines poured by the winemakers themselves during the first-ever Australian food and wine itinerary to Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart;
• Enjoy a new overnight opportunity in Hobart, Cairns and Adelaide to experience the vibrant nightlife in each of these capital cities;
• Stay longer in port with 8pm departures from popular destinations such as Melbourne, Brisbane and Christchurch;
• The popular Auckland to Fiji voyage makes a comeback, departing for the first time in January, and providing New Zealand guests the opportunity to enjoy this much-loved cruise for the holiday season;
• Three South Pacific Island itineraries taking guests to some of the world’s most beautiful islands;
• And, a new transpacific sailing at the end of the season, seamlessly transporting guests between Sydney and Honolulu and crossing the international date line.

  Boasting 21 world-class restaurants and bars, stylish accommodation, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort area for suite guests at The Retreat®, plus an array of indulgent treatments at The Spa, Celebrity Eclipse exudes relaxed luxury. For guests looking to relax outdoors, Celebrity Eclipse is one of the only ships in the world featuring a ½ acre of real lawn grass. Appropriately named, The Lawn Club, this area of the ship is the perfect spot to play outdoor games, watch a movie, enjoy live music, enjoy endless ocean views, or catch some sun.   And, because holidays should be effortless from the start, guests can choose to have Wi-Fi, drinks and service charges All Included^SM, simplifying the luxury sailing experience.   For more information on all sailings available onboard Celebrity Eclipse this 2022-23 season or to book, call 0800 441 4054, visit www.celebritycruises.com/gb or talk to your travel agent.   

Celebrity Cruises has now got its entire fleet sailing again. It marked a full fleet return with Celebrity Infinity returning to service The ship is also the last one to resume sailing out of Royal Caribbean Group’s entire fleet. Celebrity Infinity is sailing in the Caribbean from Port Everglades, Florida. It had not sailed for nearly 900 days. “This not only caps an incredible journey but sets a course for a whole new world of possibilities for our brand and for cruise travel,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. Celebrity Infinity will offer seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. “Our full return would not be possible without the tireless effort and unwavering commitment of our crew, Lutoff-Perlo added.

  Celebrity Cruises’ European summer sailings offer guests an expansive range of beautiful European destinations, with the advantage of late nights and overnight stays allowing guests to fully immerse themselves into cities and watch their surroundings evolve by day into night.   Available throughout the summer, these unforgettable itineraries provide ample opportunity to get under the skin of stunning destinations across Europe; with longer stays in port so guests can experience new places first thing in the morning to late in the evening. Soak in the art, history, and culture of these fascinating destinations, then unwind onboard, with exquisite food and drink, whilst admiring stunning views of the sparkling sea from the comfort of your ship.   Whether you are keen to discover the endless possibilities in the Greek Islands, with late night stays in both Santorini or Mykonos, you can spend the day beach hopping and sampling Greek wines at family-owned wineries. After a day of exploration, why not pop into a local taverna for a Mediterranean meze and watch the sunset over the panoramic views all around you. Or, if you would prefer to experience the best that Scandinavia has to offer with overnight stays in Copenhagen, Denmark you can admire the vibrant city full of beautiful historical architecture including the iconic Little Mermaid Statue, followed by an evening at the bustling harbour, trying out the local renowned restaurants or an evening at Copenhagen Opera House – the opportunities are unmissable with Celebrity Cruises.   Explore Europe’s glittering coast or visit the iconic cities and natural wonders of Northern Europe aboard one of our award-winning ships, including our newest ship as part of the industry-transforming Edge Series, Celebrity Beyond. Visit stunning seaside villages in Italy, sun-soaked towns in Spain, idyllic islands in Greece, the mystical fjords of Norway, the gorgeous green areas of Oslo, or the iconic Blue Lagoon in Iceland. The luxury of getting to experience these destinations by day and by night is awe-inspiring, as you can experience the delights of the local culture, cuisine, entertainment, and breath-taking views at your own leisure. Returning to Celebrity’s luxury cruise ships, you will enjoy world-class service, globally inspired cuisine, and spectacular entertainment onboard while traveling to the most coveted ports in the region.   Cruise and fly on Celebrity Beyond’s 10-night Greek Islands and Malta adventure on 11^th July 2022. With late night stays in Santorini and Mykonos, guests can have a blissful Greek experience, enjoying the cities to their fullest under the stars. Full of magical and romantic coastline views, sun-soaked stone buildings and white-sand beaches, Celebrity’s luxury Greek Island cruises will cater for every occasion. Prices from £4,142.60, based on two people sharing an Ocean View stateroom with flights from London Gatwick. Or for that wonderful feeling of “everything is taken care of”, upgrade to Celebrity’s Always Included option with drinks, Wi-Fi and tips included for just £35 per person per day.   For those thinking about a last-minute summer getaway, embark on a journey to the Italian Riviera, France, and Spain onboard Celebrity Edge on 16^th July 2022. The possibilities are endless. Journey through Rome, Portofino, and Florence; indulging in the Italian paradise, home to ancient history and delicious pizza before you can experience the gorgeous Cannes, France until 10pm – soaking up the sun, sea and delicious food and wine. With a fly-cruise package starting from £2,224.44, based on two people sharing an Inside Stateroom with flights from London Gatwick. Or for that wonderful feeling of “everything is taken care of”, upgrade to Celebrity’s Always Included option with drinks, Wi-Fi and tips included for just £35 per person per day.   For those looking to experience the joys of la dolce vita on one of our award-winning cruises, depart on a nine-night Italian adventure onboard Celebrity Constellation on 18^th August 2022 from Ravenna, starting with an overnight stay, so guests can spend time uncovering the history and beauty of famous mosaics from the 5^th and 6^th century that can be found in spectacular cathedrals, palaces, and public buildings. Then sailing to Kotor (Montenegro), a well-preserved town bursting with medieval architecture and surrounded by epic mountain scenery; Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, famous for its sweet ricotta Cannoli; Naples, the gateway to the beautiful islands of Capri and Ischia; Portofino’s pretty harbour and crystal clear waters; Livorno, Tuscany’s modern seaport with easy access to the architectural delights of Pisa and Florence; before ending in Rome (Civitavecchia) for a bowl of spaghetti alla carbonara overlooking one of the many iconic sights. Prices start from £1,398.00 based on two people sharing an inside stateroom. Or for that wonderful feeling of “everything is taken care of”, upgrade to Celebrity’s Always Included option with drinks, Wi-Fi and tips included for just £35 per person per day.   For those looking for the ease and flexibility of a no-fly cruise this summer, Celebrity Silhouette departs on 29^th August 2022, sailing from Southampton for 12 nights exploring the best of Iceland and Ireland. This sailing features an overnight stay in Reykjavik, Iceland on day eight and nine of the cruise, offering guests a chance to explore the city. Reykjavik is truly magical in the summertime, when the sun is out for longer than you would ever imagine; guests can stay out late enjoying local food, entertainment and soaking in Iceland’s stunning scenery. Guests will also have time to visit the iconic Blue Lagoon, one of Reykjavik’s biggest attractions. This package starts from £1,898.00 based on two people sharing an inside stateroom. Or for that wonderful feeling of “everything is taken care of”, upgrade to Celebrity’s Always Included option with drinks, Wi-Fi and tips included for just £35 per person per day.   Celebrity Cruises’ newest campaign offers guests an indulgent holiday with even more value. From 8^th June to 3^rd August 2022, travellers looking to explore Europe can take advantage of savings up to £600 / €720 per room on cruise holidays to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and more, in 2022 and 2023. Plus, to help guests get to their dream destination, until 30^th June 2022, the luxury cruise brand also has reductions of £250 / €300 per person on airfare bookings for 2022 sailings, offering the convenience of a package holiday.

Celebrity Cruises unveiled a 2023 -2024 year-round program in the Mediterranean. It is the first winter season in the Mediterranean , which will be operated on Celebrity Infinity. Highlights include the Pyramids of Egypt, Acropolis of Athens, and one of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem. Celebrity Infinity will kick off her winter season on nine and 10-night itineraries on the Iberian Peninsula. Rotating between departures from Barcelona, Spain, and Lisbon, Portugal, guests will visit Palma de Mallorca, Seville, and more. From October 2023 to January 2024, Infinity will call Barcelona home sailing 11- and 12-night itineraries and returns to Morocco for the first time since 2008. Capping off the winter season, Infinity will then return to Greece, in February and March 2024 for 10- and 11-night itineraries travelling three continents, including The Great Pyramids, the Acropolis, The Temple of Artemis, and more. “Being able to sail through the Mediterranean all winter will open up infinite possibilities for our guests,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises.

Luxury operator If Only teamed up with Celebrity Cruises to launch a brand new campaign 'Luxury at Sea'. The companies joined forces to inspire future travel in 2022, and agents are encouraged to learn more about what the cruise line has to offer clients. If Only is providing marketing materials from a host of social media offers and videos to a training webinar giving agents the chance to win an Elemis gift set. The tour operator has also provided a dedicated landing page for the campaign which will link to the campaign message on the If Only website. If Only is currently offering a 13 night luxury Caribbean sailing spending three nights in Miami, followed by 10 nights onboard Celebrity Millenium exploring the islands of the Caribbean. It is priced from £3,498 per person staying in a balcony room with flights from London. It includes calls to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Antigua, St. Kitts and St Maarten. Celebrity Cruises also recently announced Celebrity Beyond, the latest ship in its Edge Series launching in April. If Only are offering the chance to experience the newest ship on a 13 night Southern Caribbean Cruise and stay, including two nights pre-cruise in New York, nine nights onboard Celebrity Beyond and a twoo night post-cruise stay in Miami. Ocean View Staterooms are available from £3,749 per person. Upgrades are available on all offers.  

Celebrity Cruises will resume sailing in the Galapagos Islands this summer. Beginning 4 July, mega yacht, Celebrity Flora will be the first to resume sailing the archipelago, followed by Celebrity Xpedition and intimate 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration on 24 July, and 18 September, respectively. Celebrity Flora which was built specifically to navigate the waters of the Galapagos, will host certified naturalists from the Galpagos National Park to guide the journey. Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration will both explore the Galapagos with Northern and Southern Loop itineraries. There are twice-daily shore excursions guided by the naturalists. All Celebrity Cruises sailings include unlimited Wi-Fi, drinks, and tips All ships will sail with vaccinated crew and will be available to vaccinated adult guests and children under the age of 18 with a negative PCR test result.