Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex has officially arrived at Port Canaveral, marking the start of the ship’s first-ever season sailing from Central Florida. Beginning in Nov. 2025 and continuing through Apr. 2026, the Edge-Series vessel will operate a program of seven-night Caribbean itineraries that include some of the region’s most popular destinations.
The ship’s arrival expands Port Canaveral’s growing lineup of premium cruise offerings, joining a roster of major lines that now use the port as a base for Caribbean voyages. For travelers in Florida and the Southeast, it means easier access to one of Celebrity’s most modern ships — without having to fly to South Florida.
“We’re thrilled to bring this elevated style of cruising to guests sailing from Port Canaveral,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. “Our Edge Series ships have transformed the premium vacation experience, offering world-class amenities, exceptional dining, and dynamic entertainment.”
A New Kind of Design at Sea
The Celebrity Apex is the second ship in the line’s Edge Series and one of the most distinctive cruise ships afloat. Its design is built around the idea of connecting passengers more closely with the ocean, from its outward-facing public spaces to the signature Magic Carpet — a bright orange, cantilevered platform that slides up and down the ship’s side, functioning alternately as a lounge, bar, and dining venue suspended above the sea.
Cabins on Apex also reflect that open concept. Many feature Infinite Verandas, a design that replaces the traditional balcony with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that lowers at the touch of a button, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor space. The result is a ship that feels airy and contemporary, with an emphasis on natural light and sea views throughout.
What to Expect Onboard
Passengers will find 29 restaurants, bars, and lounges across the ship, ranging from Fine Cut Steakhouse to Raw on 5, offering globally inspired menus that highlight fresh ingredients and presentation. The three-level glass-wrapped Eden venue is a standout, combining dining, live performance, and panoramic views.
Entertainment is central to the Apex experience, with three exclusive productions staged in The Theatre, smaller cabaret-style acts in The Club, and live music throughout the ship. Suite-class travelers have access to The Retreat, a private area featuring the Luminae restaurant, an exclusive lounge, and a sundeck reserved for suite guests.
Caribbean Itineraries and Destinations
From Port Canaveral, Apex will sail roundtrip itineraries that include stops in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis; George Town, Grand Cayman; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Cozumel, Mexico; Key West, Florida; and Bimini, The Bahamas. Each itinerary is designed to balance cultural exploration and leisure — with options for snorkeling, culinary tours, and beach excursions at every stop.
The deployment represents a strategic move for Celebrity, bringing the Edge-Series experience to a broader range of U.S. travelers while strengthening Port Canaveral’s role as a gateway to the Caribbean. For guests, it offers the convenience of sailing from a major Central Florida port, along with the high-end amenities and design-focused atmosphere that have become Celebrity’s hallmark.
Karen Udler
2025-11-03 20:25:00