Celebrity Cruises celebrated the successful float-out of Celebrity Compass, the first ship in its new Celebrity River Cruises fleet, ahead of its planned August 2027 debut.
The milestone marks the completion of the ship’s exterior construction and its first time on water. The multi-day float out began Sept. 9 at a shipyard in Rotterdam. Afterward, Celebrity Compass traveled about 50 miles by river before arriving at TeamCo Shipyard in Heusden on Sept. 12 for the next phase of construction.
“The float out of Celebrity Compass is a defining milestone as we bring our vision for Celebrity River Cruises to life,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, in a press statement.
Celebrity Compass Construction Phase
With Celebrity Compass, Celebrity is bringing its contemporary design and hospitality approach to Europe’s rivers, with a focus on destination-driven experiences and open-air spaces.
Among the ship’s standout features are open decks designed to provide 360-degree views of the scenery. Guests will be able to dine above the river in the Magic Edge, a collection of cantilevered dining pods that Celebrity says are the first of their kind on a river cruise ship. An infinity-edge plunge pool will offer another way to take in the passing landscape.
The ship will also feature five stateroom categories, all designed with residential-style interiors, enhanced storage, king-sized beds and spacious balconies. Dining will include eight restaurants and bars, with familiar Celebrity venues such as Martini Bar, Sunset Bar and Cafe al Bacio joining destination-focused culinary offerings. Complimentary breakfast room service and flexible all-day dining will also be available.
Celebrity is pairing the design with a hybrid propulsion system and other technology intended to reduce noise and vibration while supporting river navigation.
Celebrity Compass is scheduled to begin sailing in August 2027.
For more information, visit celebritycruises.com.
