Celebrity Cruises has launched its first river cruise ship, the Celebrity Compass, in Rotterdam, marking its entry into European river cruising expected to begin in August 2027. The hull was floated out at Zwijnenburg and then transported to TeamCo Shipyard for interior work.
President Laura Hodges Bethge emphasized the significance of this milestone for Celebrity River Cruises. Construction commenced on the hull in January 2026, with the second hull anticipated to follow shortly.
Royal Caribbean Group has contracts for the first four vessels in the initial 10-ship order and aims for a total of 20 river ships by 2031. Celebrity had announced its river cruise plans in January 2025, with the first season selling out rapidly, leading to the decision for additional ships.
Celebrity Compass will operate between Budapest and Vilshofen on the Danube. Its fleet will include Celebrity Seeker in October and further ships named Celebrity Wanderer, Celebrity Roamer, and Celebrity Boundless due in 2028, expanding the program significantly.
Each ship will have a capacity of 170 passengers across 86 staterooms, featuring various accommodations, dining options, an infinity-edge pool, and innovative room designs intended to enhance comfort during low-water conditions. The itineraries will pass through major European cities like Vienna, Budapest, Amsterdam, and Basel.
