Celebrity River Cruises Arrives on the Danube and Rhine in 2027
Celebrity Cruises is bringing the elevated design of its Edge Series ships to some of Europe’s most iconic waterways with the launch of Celebrity River Cruises, sailing from August 2027. With 2027 and 2028 itineraries currently on sale, if you’ve sailed with Celebrity at sea, or you’re weighing up river cruising for the first time, here’s what you need to know.
Why River Cruise?
Unlike ocean cruising, a river takes you straight into the heart of a destination, rather than to its edges, just step off the ship and you’re 300 metres from a cathedral or food market, not a 30-minute transfer away. Plus, there’s no rough seas to contend with on these calm waterways. Nothing needs unpacking twice and the scenery changes daily without having to worry about train or car logistics. It’s a comfortable style of travel built for people who want the culture and ease in equal measure, and it works just as well solo as it does for a couple or family.
River cruising has grown in popularity over recent years, and Celebrity Cruises are securing their place on the waters. With a maximum guest count of 172 and a relaxed atmosphere onboard, five new river ships are debuting in the next two years. From unique dining concepts to modern design, discover European river cruising in new and exciting ways with Celebrity.
Your Home on the River
The ships set the tone, they’re innovative, modern and spacious. Celebrity has redesigned the river cruise hull to improve navigation, with open decks to give you more outdoor space than other vessels on these rivers and keep the surrounding scenery in view from almost anywhere onboard. The ships are designed with versatile spaces that adapt to your rhythm whether you are gathering for cocktails, unwinding in quiet comfort or relaxing in the Infinity edge plunge pool at the aft of ship.
Staterooms and suites are all about clean lines, soothing textures and generous natural light to invite the outside in. Across five room categories, every stateroom features a king-size bed with optional twin bed configuration, destination inspired amenities and a complimentary minibar, while suite guests also enjoy a dedicated butler.
Eight restaurants and bars onboard include familiar names from Celebrity’s ocean fleet, among them Martini Bar, Sunset Bar and Cafe Al Bacio, alongside destination driven menues that change with the itinerary, from morning pastries baked in the style of the region to dinners drawing on local produce and recipes. The standout is Magic Edge, a set of cantilevered dining pods that extend out over the water, so you can dine with the river beneath you and a menu built around the cities you sail through.
Discover Europe – Four Ways to Explore
Celebrity River Cruises has put just as much thought into what happens off the ship with four unique experience series shaping your time in port. See a place through the eyes of someone who calls it home with the Storyteller Series, where you’ll discover the history, hidden gems and lifestyle of a destination with local guides. With the Skillmaster Series, you’ll get more hands-on participating in cooking classes, dance lessons and craft activities so you become part of the local traditions, not just an observer.
For those who prefer self-exploration, Celebrity’s Keys to the City Series provides you with a tech-driven, self-guided exploration tool with curated guides and behind the scenes access allowing you to unlock hidden history, insider knowledge and the small shops and restaurants that give a city its character. And the Celebrity Takeover Series, where one-of-a-kind, bucketlist events in historic settings and aboard your ship take place once ever sailing, putting a special Celebrity twist on iconic European destinations.
It’s All Included
Fares are all inclusive, covering meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi, onboard expereinces and one shore excursion each day, so you know what your holiday costs before you leave home. Before- and After-Stays are available too, each including curated hotel stays, daily breakfast and ship transfers, ideal if you want extra time in Amsterdam, Budapest, Prague or Lausanne either side of your sailing.
Itineraries to Explore
Discover some of our hand selected voyage picks for 2028, centred around Europe’s major cultural events and in-demand attractions. With sialings already open for 2027 and 2028, the best cabins won’t stay available for long. Your Travelcall specialist can talk you through the itineraries, what to expect on a Celebrity River Cruise, secure your preferred sailing and handle everything from there.
Rhine Christmas Markets
Amsterdam to Basel
Celebrate the season on a 7-night festive Rhine river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel visiting Eruope’s enchanting Christmas towns like Cologne and Strasbourg. Departs 9 December 2028.
Belgian and Dutch Tulips
Brussels to Amsterdam
Sail from Brussels to Amsterdam on a 7-night Rhine river cruise during tulip season where colourful fields, windmills and riverside villages create a vivid spring journey. Departs 29 April 2028.
Danube Straubing Festival
Regensburg to Budapest
Join in the iconic Bavarian festivities with music, parades and lots of sausages at the Straubing Festival on a 7-night sailing from Regensburg to Budapest. Departs 10 August 2028.
Danube Christmas Market
Nuremburg to Vienna
Discover two of Europe’s best known Christmas market cities in one 6-night sailing taking in Germany and Austria. Departs 5 December 2028.
Speak with a Travelcall advisor.
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or email travel@travelcall.com.au