Celebrity Cruises Announces 2026 President’s Cruise

Celebrity Cruises has unveiled plans for its 2026 President’s Cruise- and it’s going to be one for the books.

Taking place onboard the highly anticipated Celebrity Xcel, the cruise line’s newest ship, this exclusive sailing will whisk guests away on a luxurious Mediterranean cruise holiday from 13th to 21st September 2026.

For Captain’s Club members, this isn’t just any sailing. It’s a unique chance to experience one of the first-ever Mediterranean itineraries on Celebrity Xcel, visiting iconic destinations in Greece, Turkey, and Malta, before ending the itinerary in beautiful Barcelona.

A Mediterranean Cruise With a VIP Twist

Departing from Athens, this eight-night voyage will treat guests to sun-drenched Greek Isles, including Mykonos, Rhodes, and Santorini, the historic city of Ephesus in Turkey, and Valletta in Malta- all wrapped up in the next-level luxury that only Celebrity Cruises can deliver.

The experience onboard Celebrity Xcel will set the President’s Cruise apart. Hosted by Celebrity’s President, Laura Hodges Bethge, this sailing offers behind-the-scenes access, exclusive events, and immersive experiences only available to those onboard this special sailing.

“Our annual President’s Cruise is my favourite sailing of the year. It’s a celebration of our most loyal guests- we listen, we connect, and we share unforgettable moments.”

- Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises President

Highlights From The 2025 President’s Cruise

The announcement was made during the 2025 edition of the President’s Cruise, which treated Captain’s Club members to the stunning Norwegian Fjords onboard Celebrity Apex. From private city stays in London to surprise West End performances, guests were truly spoiled.

The sailing included a first-ever President’s Cruise Gala Dinner at London’s Museum of Natural History, and a Beatles-themed sail-away party that turned heads on the Resort Deck. Throughout the week, guests enjoyed:

• An intimate fireside chat and book signing with Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud

• A cooking showdown featuring Boulud and guests

• A surprise concert by Broadway star, Shoshana Bean

• A decadent Chocolate Wonderland pop-up

• Shore excursions led by Celebrity executives, including kayaking in Valldal and private garden experiences in Norway

These ultra-personalised touches are exactly what make the Celebrity Cruises President’s Cruise a standout event in the cruise calendar.

Why Book The 2026 President’s Cruise?

If you're part of the Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club, this is the ultimate member benefit. Not only do you get a front-row seat to the launch of Celebrity Xcel’s Mediterranean debut, but you’ll also enjoy exclusive access to brand-new venues, special events, and once-in-a-lifetime moments curated just for loyalty guests.

Ready to experience Mediterranean cruising at its finest aboard Celebrity Xcel? The 2026 President’s Cruise is already shaping up to be one of the most in-demand sailings of the year.