Celebrity Cruises Names World’s Best Female Chef as Godmother of Celebrity Xcel

Foodies and cruise fanatics, this one is for you! Celebrity Cruises has just announced that Janaína Torres, the World’s Best Female Chef 2024, will serve as Godmother of its newest ship, Celebrity Xcel. 

This exciting news marks the first time a Brazilian chef has been given the honour of becoming Godmother of a ship by a major cruise line, and it’s set to bring even more flavour and cultural richness to the cruise experience.

A Perfect Pairing: Culinary Excellence Meets Cruise Innovation

Janaína Torres isn’t just any chef. As the co-owner of São Paulo’s award-winning A Casa do Porco, she’s become a global culinary star thanks to her sustainable, no-waste approach to cooking that blends Brazilian heritage with creativity and purpose.

Named World’s Best Female Chef in 2024 by The World’s 50 Best, Torres is passionate about making fine dining accessible and meaningful; a philosophy that aligns perfectly with Celebrity Cruises’ own focus on elevated, destination-inspired dining.

Celebrity Xcel, the latest Edge-Series ship launching this November, will debut with an even greater emphasis on gastronomy thanks to The Bazaar: a brand-new venue designed to blur the lines between ship and shore. Here, guests can look forward to authentic, locally inspired flavours, live entertainment, and cultural activities that bring destinations to life through food.

“We are honoured for Chef Janaína Torres, a trailblazer in the culinary industry, to be Godmother of Celebrity Xcel. Janaína shares our commitment to celebrating and sharing global culture through elevated culinary experiences, connecting diners with culture through unique food experiences.”

Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises

Why Torres as Godmother of Celebrity Xcel?

Traditionally, a ship’s Godmother plays a symbolic role in bringing good fortune and protection to all who sail onboard. For Celebrity Cruises, Torres embodies the spirit of connection through culture, flavour, and community.

“I've always believed that fine dining should be accessible, not intimidating. Food brings us together, connecting us through new flavours, traditions, and shared memories. I’m proud to partner with Celebrity Cruises to showcase our culture and cuisine on a global stage.”

Janaína Torres, Godmother of Celebrity Xcel

What Guests Can Expect Onboard Celebrity Xcel

• Christening Ceremony: Janaína Torres will officially christen Celebrity Xcel on 16th November 2025 in a traditional naming ceremony.

• Caribbean Adventures: From November, the ship will sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, with 7-night itineraries to The Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

• Mediterranean Debut: In summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel heads to Europe, offering 7–11 night itineraries from Barcelona and Athens, including brand-new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal.

Food Lovers, Celebrity Xcel is The Ship For You

With Torres’ influence and Celebrity’s award-winning culinary reputation, Celebrity Xcel is shaping up to be a dream come true for travellers who love to eat their way around the world.

Whether you’re sampling bold Latin American flavours, indulging in destination-inspired menus, or enjoying Celebrity’s top-quality service at sea, one thing is for certain- Celebrity Xcel is set to be a feast for all the senses.