Celebrity Cruises has revealed brand-new details about its highly anticipated river ships, including new renderings, vessel names, and stateroom designs.
The two ships, Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker, will blend the line’s iconic Edge Series style with innovative features never before seen on Europe’s rivers.
When Priority Booking Access opened this morning for Celebrity’s river ships, demand was so strong that it sold out within minutes. The cruise line described the response as “unprecedented.”
While access was fleeting, the cruise line also released brand-new renderings and details about the ships today, which are set to redefine river cruising when they debut on the Rhine and Danube in 2027.
Until now, details about Celebrity River Cruises were far and few between. Although Priority Booking Access was announced a few weeks ago, prospective cruisers were hesitant to make the $500 refundable deposit without confirmed details regarding the ship design, itineraries, and onboard offerings.
Now, we have a better idea of what Celebrity’s river cruise ships will look like with recently announced details and new images.
Priority booking access sees unprecedented demand and booking frustrations
If today’s launch is any indication, there is a strong demand for Celebrity’s new river ships. The company reported “unprecedented demand” when Priority Booking Access opened at 9 a.m. EST, with reservations closing almost immediately.
Priority Booking Access is Celebrity Cruises’ early reservation program, giving guests the chance to secure their spot on the brand’s first river ships before public bookings open. By placing a fully refundable $500 deposit, travelers could be added to an exclusive list that allows them to select their staterooms and itineraries ahead of everyone else.
For the launch of Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker, this early-access list filled almost instantly. Those who secured Priority Booking Access will be able to choose their exact 2027 sailing and stateroom starting September 10, while the general public will have to wait until later when reservations open broadly.
That demand left many loyal guests frustrated. Some reported they never received the chance to sign up, while others said they dialed in before 9 a.m. only to be told the list was already full when they finally connected minutes later. In addition, some customers questioned whether reservations opened earlier than advertised, noting they never saw a waitlist option before sales ended.
“I called the number before 9:00am and didn’t get connected until 9:20. I was told the list was full. What? How? If they are prioritizing Elite Plus, it doesn’t look that way anymore. Looks like any river cruise might not be with Celebrity at this point,” stated one Facebook user.
Travel advisors also expressed challenges, with some able to secure only a handful of reservations before access shut down. One advisor noted they booked about 25 cabins for clients before the system closed, while many others were left on hold for hours.
Despite the early hiccups, Celebrity reassured guests that 2027 sailings will soon be available for public booking.
Celebrity’s new standard for river cruising
Celebrity is promising nothing less than a transformation of the river cruise experience. At the heart of the design is an emphasis on space and connection to the outdoors.
“Celebrity River Cruises ships will be the most innovative on the river, with a patent-pending design that offers more space to vacation while bringing guests even closer to destinations,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises.
Revolutionary open decks will remain accessible for the entire journey, ensuring uninterrupted, 360-degree views of Europe’s landscapes. Guests will be able to cool off in a dramatic infinity-edge plunge pool suspended above the river or unwind in lounge areas designed for both socializing and quiet relaxation.
One of the most eye-catching innovations is the Magic Edge cantilevered dining pods, which extend over the river to provide a floating dining experience. Each pod will serve destination-driven menus that evolve with every port, offering an unprecedented way to immerse guests in the culinary traditions of the regions visited.
While the ships are visually striking with sleek exteriors and open, airy interiors, Celebrity also emphasized its environmental credentials. Both vessels will operate with a best-in-class hybrid propulsion system and advanced waste management technology, while a lightweight hull design will allow smoother navigation through Europe’s narrow waterways. Noise and vibration reduction will enhance the onboard experience while minimizing environmental impact.
Dining variety beyond the norm
Dining is set to be one of the defining features of the new river ships. With eight different venues, Celebrity claims it will offer more variety than any other line on the rivers.
Returning Celebrity Cruise favorites such as the Martini Bar, Sunset Bar, and Café al Bacio join new concepts tailored to Europe’s waterways. Café al Bacio, a signature venue across Celebrity’s ocean fleet, will become a cozy all-day gathering place for pastries and specialty coffees, its design blending warm woods, marble counters, and an impressive skylight.
According to Celebrity’s new promotional video, the dining pods will extend over the side of the ship for an immersive experience. This certainly mimics the Edge-class series with the Magic Carpet, which extends over the side of the vessel.
Menus will reflect the destinations, from locally baked pastries in the morning to dinners inspired by each country along the itinerary. Guests can dine on their own schedule thanks to the flexibility of all-day service, and Celebrity is touting another industry first: the only true 24/7 dining option available on a river ship.
Staterooms and suites that redefine comfort
Staterooms aboard Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker are designed with the same focus on comfort and innovation as Celebrity’s ocean fleet. All feature king-sized beds, a rarity in river cruising, and residential-style interiors with abundant storage and natural light.
Celebrity is bringing its revolutionary Infinite Veranda concept to the rivers, allowing guests to expand their living space at the touch of a button and bring the outdoors in.
The line is also introducing the Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite, a first for the industry, featuring dramatic ceiling windows that flood the room with light.
These suites come with added perks, such as on-demand butler service through “Butler Chat,” exclusive dining privileges, and complimentary laundry.
Other accommodation categories include Vista Balcony Suites with extended outdoor space, traditional Balcony Staterooms with private verandas, and River View Staterooms with expansive windows designed to frame Europe’s scenic riverscapes.
Bathrooms, often an afterthought on river vessels, have been elevated with spa-inspired touches: rainfall showers, marble surfaces, and contemporary finishes. Renderings reveal a boutique hotel aesthetic, with textured walls, elegant lighting, and curated artwork.
Itineraries designed for immersion
Celebrity Cruises’ inaugural river cruise season will feature 33 seven-night itineraries on the Rhine and Danube. These river sailings are designed for cultural immersion, with multiple port calls per day and overnight stays built in to allow deeper exploration.
For example, the cruise line states that guests can see Budapest illuminated at night, sail through Austria’s Wachau Valley, and discover both iconic capitals and hidden villages along the way.
Experiences ashore will focus on authenticity and local connection. Excursions include cycling riverbanks, soaking in Budapest’s famed thermal baths, and sampling regional wines during intimate tastings. Celebrity will also introduce curated pre- and post-cruise packages in 2026, extending vacations in destinations such as Prague and Budapest.
Itineraries and pricing
The Danube: Vienna & Budapest
Sail the Danube on a 7-night voyage between Vienna and Budapest, two of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. Along the way, journey through the scenic Wachau Valley, visit storybook towns, and experience the region’s rich history, music, and cuisine. With a blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and Celebrity’s signature style, this itinerary offers a timeless way to explore the heart of Central Europe.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $6,899
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $5,899
- Balcony: $5,099
- Infinite Balcony: $4,199
- River View: $2,999
The Danube: Budapest & Vienna
Discover the beauty of the Danube on a 7-night journey between Budapest and Vienna, two of Europe’s most iconic capitals. Sail through the scenic Wachau Valley, explore charming riverside towns, and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of imperial Vienna and historic Budapest. With stunning landscapes, world-class music and art, and Celebrity’s signature service, this itinerary offers an elegant and enriching way to experience Central Europe.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $6,899
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $5,899
- Balcony: $5,099
- Infinite Balcony: $4,199
- River View: $2,999
The Danube: Vilshofen & Budapest: Christmas Markets
Celebrate the holiday season aboard a festive Danube cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg. Experience timeless Christmas traditions in Vienna and charming small towns, with visits to local markets brimming with handcrafted treats and warming delights. This seasonal voyage blends fairy-tale scenery with joie de vivre—enhanced by Celebrity’s luxurious touches, thoughtful inclusions, and heartfelt hospitality.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $8,599
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $7,199
- Balcony: $5,999
- Infinite Balcony: $4,799
- River View: $3,299
The Danube: Budapest & Nuremberg: Christmas Markets
Sail the Danube on a 7-night voyage from Budapest to Nuremberg, immersing yourself in the festive spirit of Europe’s most charming Christmas Markets. Explore historic Vienna and picturesque riverside towns decorated with twinkling lights, enjoy traditional holiday treats, and shop for handcrafted treasures. Blending cultural exploration with seasonal magic, this itinerary offers a warm and memorable way to celebrate the holidays along the Danube.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $8,599
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $7,199
- Balcony: $5,999
- Infinite Balcony: $4,799
- River View: $3,299
The Danube: Nuremberg & Budapest: Christmas Markets
Sail the Danube on a festive 7-night journey from Nuremberg to Budapest, where timeless holiday traditions come alive. Along the way, explore charming towns and vibrant cities adorned with twinkling lights, visit enchanting Christmas Markets filled with handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats, and soak in the festive spirit of Vienna. This itinerary blends cultural treasures with the magic of the holidays, all enhanced by Celebrity’s signature style, inclusive amenities, and warm service.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $8,999
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $7,599
- Balcony: $6,399
- Infinite Balcony: $5,199
- River View: $3,699
The Rhine: Nuremberg & Amsterdam: New Year’s
Celebrate the New Year in style with a 7-night cruise along the Rhine from Nuremberg to Amsterdam. This festive journey takes you through castle-dotted landscapes, storybook towns, and vibrant cities like Cologne, with time to toast the year ahead onboard in true Celebrity fashion. Blending cultural exploration, breathtaking scenery, and a lively holiday atmosphere, this itinerary offers a memorable way to ring in the New Year on Europe’s most iconic river.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $6,899
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $5,899
- Balcony: $5,099
- Infinite Balcony: $4,199
- River View: $2,999
The Rhine: Nuremberg & Basel: Holiday
Journey along the Rhine on a 7-night holiday sailing from Nuremberg to Basel, discovering festive towns and historic cities along the way. Stroll through holiday markets glowing with lights, savor seasonal treats, and admire medieval architecture and riverside castles. With its mix of cultural treasures, winter scenery, and Celebrity’s signature style, this itinerary delivers a magical way to celebrate the season in the heart of Europe.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $6,899
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $5,899
- Balcony: $5,099
- Infinite Balcony: $4,199
- River View: $2,999
The Rhine: Basel & Amsterdam: New Year’s
Ring in the New Year with a 7-night Rhine River cruise from Basel to Amsterdam, passing vineyard-lined valleys, medieval towns, and cultural hubs like Strasbourg and Cologne. Enjoy festive celebrations onboard, explore riverside markets and landmarks, and welcome the year ahead in true Celebrity style with inclusive amenities and warm hospitality.
Prices from:
- Vista Balcony Suite: $6,899
- Skylight Infinite Balcony Suite: $5,899
- Balcony: $5,099
- Infinite Balcony: $4,199
- River View: $2,999
Celebrity Cruises extends loyalty benefits to river cruising
Guests loyal to Celebrity will see their Captain’s Club membership extend seamlessly to the river fleet. Depending on their accommodations, members can earn between 8 and 18 points per night on river sailings.
Full details on rewards and tier benefits will be announced in 2026, but the company says recognition and perks will mirror those available at sea.
What is the priority qualification? My agent was on the phone before 9 am , unable to reach anyone
I believe they prioritized by Captain’s Club status, but others are saying that’s not necessarily true. I think demand was through the roof!