Imagine a cruise ship designed by the very people who sail on it. Sounds like a recipe for chaos, right? Well, it’s not as crazy as you might think, and Celebrity Cruises is proving it with their £684 million masterpiece, the Celebrity Xcel. But here’s where it gets controversial: can crowdsourcing creativity from the public actually work in the luxury travel industry? Let’s dive in.
The idea of letting passengers shape a cruise ship might remind you of the infamous 'Boaty McBoatface' debacle. And yes, there’s the 2009 case of Tui Cruises, where the German public named their new ship 'Mein Schiff'—hardly the most imaginative choice. Yet, Celebrity Cruises took the plunge, inviting over 140,000 people worldwide to become 'Dream Makers' for the Xcel. Through 654,000 votes, these enthusiasts weighed in on everything from menu items to cocktails, music, and even theatre costumes. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn’t about handing over the reins entirely but blending public input with professional expertise.
According to Celebrity’s president, Laura Hodges Bethge, the idea sparked during a creative team debate. 'Why not ask our guests?' someone suggested. The result? A ship that feels like a dream come true for many. The Xcel, the fifth in Celebrity’s Edge series, is a marvel of modern cruising—sleek, sophisticated, and brimming with innovation. From the suspended Magic Carpet lounge to the high-tech theatre with its Abba Voyage-meets-Cirque du Soleil vibe, it’s a ship that redefines luxury.
But what sets the Xcel apart? For starters, it’s less like a traditional cruise ship and more like a swanky beach resort. There’s a constant buzz of celebration, from the pulsating Martini Bar to the late-night Shine the Night deck parties. And for a touch of tranquility, the Rooftop Garden’s infinity-edge plunge pools offer a serene escape. Here’s the bold part: the ship’s new Mediterranean restaurant, Bora, is a culinary masterpiece, serving up dishes like roast cauliflower with tzatziki and sizzling garlic prawns. Arrive hungry—trust me.
The Bazaar, a three-deck extravaganza, is another game-changer. Replacing the underused Eden lounge, it’s a vibrant hub of local culture, artisanal stalls, and immersive experiences. But here’s the twist: while the public didn’t design the Bazaar, their passion for destination immersion inspired it. From Caribbean-themed festivals to Greek, Spanish, and Italian influences in the Mediterranean, it’s a space that keeps the vacation vibe alive even when you’re back on board.
Now, let’s talk about the mysterious IYKYK (If You Know, You Know) venue. Hidden from deck plans, it’s a speakeasy-style gem where flappers, gangsters, and jazz musicians transport you back in time. Controversial question: Is this kind of exclusive, immersive experience the future of cruise entertainment? Or is it just a passing fad?
The Xcel’s theatre is another standout, with a 110ft-wide kinetic LED wall and parkour performers that elevate shows to new heights. But here’s the catch: while entertainment and seven restaurants are included, costs can add up. Wine starts at £9.10 a glass, and a spa pass is £90.20. Is it worth it? For many, the answer is a resounding yes, especially with the 'All Included' package at £347 per person for a week.
So, what did the Dream Makers truly contribute? It wasn’t about grand design choices but the little details—like the '80s neon pop soundtrack in the Grand Plaza or the Raspberry Limoncello martini. These touches create a sense of ownership, making passengers feel like they’re part of something special. Final thought-provoking question: Does involving the public in design enhance the experience, or does it risk diluting the vision of professionals? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear your take!
