Q – 11.29.25 – When will the new Celebrity Riverboat be sailing, and have the books been opened up yet? Is this a river cruise you will be recommending? We are past Celebrity guests in Europe (twice) and we were extremely satisfied.
A – Celebrity River Cruises will launch their first sailings in 2027, featuring two new luxury river ships: Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker. The initial itineraries will explore the Rhine and Danube rivers, promising immersive cultural experiences, expansive open decks, onboard butler service, and 24-hour dining.
Past Celebrity guests were allowed to begin booking in September of 2025, and the entire 2027 season sold out in six minutes, according to Celebrity.
As the vessels have not yet been launched, we cannot make any recommendations. Our Inspectors will be filing reports, and we will begin to determine how Celebrity River Cruises’ quality standards compare with those of the three leading river cruise lines in Europe: Scenic, AMA Waterways, and Tauck.
For now, these are some of the features and characteristics you will find in the new Celebrity River cruise brand:
Here’s a breakdown of the key features you can expect aboard these 172-guest luxury river ships:
Signature Design & Outdoor Living
• Infinite Veranda Staterooms: Adapted from Celebrity’s ocean ships, these cabins feature floor-to-ceiling glass that transforms into open-air balconies at the touch of a button.
• Expansive Open Decks: More outdoor space than any other river vessel, designed for panoramic views and relaxation.
• Infinity-Edge Plunge Pool: A dramatic, cantilevered pool extending over the river for a floating sensation.
️ Dining & Social Spaces
• Magic Carpet-Inspired Dining Pods: Elevated, cantilevered dining venues offering immersive views and a floating experience reminiscent of the Magic Carpet on Edge-class ships.
• Top-Deck Bar & Grill: Al fresco dining and cocktails with 360-degree views, designed for year-round enjoyment.
Luxury Service & Amenities
• Butler Service: Personalized attention in all suite categories, continuing Celebrity’s high-touch hospitality.
• 24-Hour Dining: Flexible, upscale culinary offerings around the clock.
• Wellness & Enrichment: Programs focused on local culture, history, and cuisine, with onboard experts and curated excursions.
Itineraries & Immersion
• 33 Weeklong Sailings in 2027: Focused on the Rhine and Danube Rivers, with immersive port experiences in cities like Vienna, Budapest, Amsterdam, and Basel.
• Cultural Deep Dives: Emphasis on local flavors, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes access to Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Will these ships be tying up to other riverboats at night? In many ports we suspect they will. Will there be extra charge shore-excursions and dining options? Unlike more inclusive competitors we expect that there will.
Will most of the guests be coming over from Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises? Absolutely yes. So Celebrity River Cruises is looking to become an extension of an existing brand loyalty not normally associated with a TrueLux product on Europe’s rivers.
But remember this: Royal Caribbean is not playing games here. They have announced a commitment to an initial order of ten new Celebrity riverboats carrying 172 guests each. But TrueLux cruise brand Silversea is also owned by Royal Caribbean and don’t be surprised if you see the development of the ultimate river cruise product under that name and financial umbrella.
