Celebrity Cruise Ships Ranked: The Best (and Worst) in the Fleet

Planning a holiday with Celebrity Cruises opens up a world of stylish ships and luxurious If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping a cocktail while gliding across the high seas on a ship that’s practically a floating luxury hotel, then Celebrity Cruises might just be your dream come true.

Their ships are known for being sleek, modern, and dripping with style. Not to mention their dining and entertainment, which could make even a Michelin-starred chef or a Broadway star do a double-take.

But wait, before you get swept away by visions of glamorous evenings and gourmet meals, let’s not forget the Celebrity Expedition Series. These ships are like the adventurous cousins of the fleet, designed for those who want to trade the high seas for high adventure, especially if the Galapagos Islands are on your bucket list.

This image shows the Celebrity Apex cruise ship sailing through a serene Norwegian fjord, surrounded by towering, rugged mountains and calm waters. The ship’s sleek design contrasts beautifully with the natural landscape, creating a scenic, tranquil atmosphere under a bright, cloudy sky.

So, how do you choose the perfect Celebrity cruise ship for your holiday? Don’t worry – I’ve done the hard work for you by ranking all the ships. Whether you’re aiming for pure luxury or wild exploration, this guide will help you set sail on the perfect cruise.

How I Compiled the Ship Rankings

Now, I’d love to regale you with tales of my personal adventures on every single Celebrity ship, but alas, my cruise passport isn’t that full—yet! Ranking all these ships based solely on my own experiences would be a bit like judging a pizza competition based on one slice (delicious, but incomplete). And while I could rely on expert reviews, remember, even experts can have an off day or a rogue experience that skews their opinions.

So, to make this as fair and balanced as possible, I’ve turned to thousands of reviews from fellow cruisers. I’ve scoured three of the biggest cruise review sites—Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com, and TripAdvisor—to gather an average score for each ship. This way, you get a more comprehensive picture based on the collective wisdom (and sometimes whimsical nature) of past guests.

Just a heads-up: when I say “worst,” it’s not a slam dunk. It simply means that the ship didn’t score as high as the rest of the fleet. And let’s be honest—on Celebrity Cruises, even the so-called “worst” ships have an average review score of 3.87 out of 5, which is pretty impressive!

Oh, and before I forget—this guide features the ship with the highest average score of any I’ve reviewed in a “best to worst” list. So you can be sure it’s top-notch!

1. Celebrity Flora

This image shows the Celebrity Flora cruise ship sailing through calm blue waters under a clear, partly cloudy sky. The modern design of the ship, with sleek lines and multiple decks, is prominently featured as it moves through the open sea. In the background, a distant shoreline is visible, adding to the vastness of the oceanic scenery.

Celebrity Flora is the second most popular ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet and the newest of the Expedition-class ships. Although she’s the largest of her class, she can still only accommodate up to 100 guests, providing an intimate and exclusive cruising experience.

This superyacht offers six types of suites, each designed for comfort and luxury. You can unwind in the Discovery Lounge or take in some breathtaking views at the Observatory, which also features a spacious library. Dining is a treat, with two restaurants offering various options.

For a unique experience, try the glamping pods, where you can relax on cosy beds and watch the sunrise or sunset.

This image showcases the Galapagos Glamping experience on the Celebrity Flora, featuring a luxurious, semi-enclosed wooden cabana with flowing white curtains. Two cozy lounge chairs are arranged for relaxation, overlooking the ocean under a clear sky. The setup provides an inviting, tranquil atmosphere for enjoying the beautiful seascape in comfort and style.

With just 100 guests, you’ll find it easier to meet new people while still enjoying some privacy. The ship’s design is stunning, showcasing one of the finest examples of an expedition ship that doesn’t compromise on the onboard experience.

2. Celebrity Ascent

This image captures the Celebrity Ascent cruise ship sailing through bright blue waters with lush green islands in the background. The ship's sleek design and expansive deck space are complemented by the distinctive orange feature known as the "Magic Carpet." The clear, sunny weather and calm seas enhance the scenic tropical setting, perfect for a luxury ocean voyage.

Celebrity Ascent stands out as the newest addition to the Celebrity Cruises fleet. Its elegant decor will captivate you the moment you board. You’ll enjoy a variety of delicious dining options and numerous exciting itineraries. Despite it being the only Edge-class ship listed so high, it guarantees a memorable journey with its top-notch amenities and design.

3. Celebrity Equinox

This image features the Celebrity Equinox cruise ship sailing through calm waters with a slightly cloudy sky overhead. The ship’s sleek design and expansive decks are clearly visible, with rows of stateroom balconies and the distinctive blue hull. The vessel is leaving a smooth wake behind as it moves through the ocean, emphasizing its grandeur and elegance as a luxurious mode of travel.

Celebrity Equinox is a standout in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, even though it made its debut in 2009. The ship boasts a relaxing atmosphere, which passengers love, and it underwent a major update in 2019.

This ship appeals to a variety of travellers, including families. The kids’ clubs are conveniently located on Deck 15, keeping the rest of the ship peaceful for couples and solo visitors.

The ship sails to sunny destinations in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, making the most of warm weather with plenty of outdoor activities. While some negative reviews mention issues with the food and entertainment, most guests report a fantastic time on board. The positive feedback highlights the ship’s modern design and the effort put into keeping it up-to-date.

4. Celebrity Reflection

This image features the Celebrity Reflection cruise ship docked at night, with its bright lights reflecting beautifully on the calm water. The ship’s name, "Celebrity Reflection," is illuminated on its white hull, standing out against the dark evening sky. The soft glow of the ship’s lighting creates a serene, majestic atmosphere, highlighting the elegance of the vessel as it rests in the harbor.

The Celebrity Reflection, launched in 2012, was the final addition to the Solstice-class ships and was briefly the largest in Celebrity’s fleet. It remains one of only two Celebrity ships with a passenger capacity of just over 3,000.

Reviewers consistently praise the Reflection for its spacious design and numerous relaxation spots, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The service onboard also receives high marks, with many guests appreciating the crew’s efforts to make each cruise exceptional.

However, some criticisms have emerged, particularly regarding the food. It appears that while the dining experience is generally satisfactory, it sometimes falls short of the high standards set by Celebrity. This can be disappointing, as even minor lapses can reflect poorly on an otherwise well-regarded ship.

5. Celebrity Eclipse

This image shows the Celebrity Eclipse cruise ship arriving in Sydney, with the iconic Sydney Opera House visible in the background. The ship's sleek, modern design stands out as it glides through the harbor at sunset, creating a beautiful contrast between the deep blue hull and the warm hues of the evening sky. A tugboat can be seen assisting the ship as it makes its approach to the dock, emphasizing the grandeur of the vessel against the scenic city backdrop.

Celebrity Eclipse, launched in 2010, is the third ship of the five Solstice-class vessels. Some guests feel she could use a bit of extra care, as parts of the ship appear a bit worn. Nevertheless, Celebrity Eclipse has maintained its popularity, boasting an average review score of 4.2 out of 5.

You will find that even though some areas might seem older, the ship still offers an elegant feel and plenty of relaxing spots. Although the ship does not have a huge range of daytime activities, there is a fantastic pool area and several serene indoor spaces.

A highlight for many is the food onboard, which receives high praise from guests. Unlike some of her sister ships, Celebrity Eclipse tends to have fewer complaints regarding dining experiences. This makes it a delightful choice for those who appreciate good food on their cruise.

6. Celebrity Silhouette

This image features the Celebrity Silhouette cruise ship sailing through open waters under a clear blue sky. The ship’s sleek design includes rows of stateroom balconies, its distinctive white and blue hull, and spacious decks. The vessel is cutting through the calm ocean, leaving a trail of wake behind it, showcasing the grandeur and elegance of this luxury cruise liner.

Celebrity Silhouette is part of the Solstice-class fleet and first set sail in 2011. She underwent a scheduled refurbishment in 2020 to update staterooms, suites, and public areas, which has kept her looking fresh and modern.

Passengers frequently praise the entertainment and crew’s service on Celebrity Silhouette, which have become trademarks of the Solstice-class ships.

Sadly, food options receive some criticism, especially noting a reduction in variety and premium choices. Many reviews mention disappointment with the overall menu changes.

Overall, if you’re seeking excellent entertainment and service, Celebrity Silhouette offers a pleasant experience, despite some menu shortfalls.

7. Celebrity Solstice

This image features the Celebrity Solstice cruise ship sailing through a calm, blue ocean with the famous rock formations of Cabo San Lucas visible in the distance. The ship is making a gentle turn, leaving a graceful wake behind it. The expansive sea and bright sky create a serene and picturesque backdrop, highlighting the luxurious vessel as it glides toward its destination.

The Celebrity Solstice, launched in 2008, is the flagship of the Solstice class and reflects the essence of a Celebrity cruise experience. The ship boasts spacious public areas and an attentive crew that has received high praise for their service and dedication.

While the food has received some mixed reviews, it could be attributed to the high expectations that come with the price range of a Celebrity cruise. Certain areas of the ship have been noted to appear a bit worn out, suggesting that a refurbishment might be needed to refresh her appeal.

Despite these points, the Celebrity Solstice remains a favourite for many, thanks to its broad range of amenities and warm, inviting atmosphere.

8. Celebrity Edge

This image shows the Celebrity Edge cruise ship sailing near a cityscape with the iconic Space Needle prominently visible in the background. The ship's modern design, including multiple decks and a sleek blue hull, stands out as it glides through the water. The cloudy sky and urban skyline create a scenic contrast with the ship, highlighting the blend of luxury cruising and metropolitan views.

Celebrity Edge is the first ship in the Edge-class series, launched in 2018. She stands out with her modern design and tasteful architecture. The ship offers expansive public areas for you to unwind and relax.

Dining is a highlight on Celebrity Edge, with numerous options to satisfy various tastes. Reviews mention good service, though some note changes in the menu.

This image features the elegant dining room of Luminae at The Retreat on Celebrity Edge. The restaurant showcases sophisticated decor with plush seating, beautifully set tables, and ambient lighting from unique, leaf-shaped chandeliers. The room's warm, modern atmosphere is enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a stylish and intimate dining experience for guests.

There are some mixed opinions about Celebrity Edge. Some guests feel that the Solstice Class ships have a more classic Celebrity feel. A few reviews suggest that while Celebrity Edge looks impressive, it might lack some substance. Rooms might feel less spacious, and entertainment can seem repetitive despite its technical brilliance.

9. Celebrity Summit

Celebrity Summit is part of the older Millennium Class, making her the second to last ship of that group. Launched in 2001, she has a classic touch that many enjoy. Despite her age, a significant refurbishment in 2019 updated many aspects, keeping the ship’s look and feel modern.

Many passengers appreciate the quieter ambience and the high-quality food and service on Celebrity Summit.

10. Celebrity Beyond

This image features the Celebrity Beyond cruise ship sailing through calm waters under a clear, bright sky. The ship’s modern design includes expansive decks, sleek lines, and its signature "Magic Carpet" — a bright orange movable platform on the starboard side. The vast ocean stretches in every direction, highlighting the ship’s elegance as it cruises through the serene waters.

Just squeezing into the top 10, Celebrity Beyond holds a solid 4 out of 5 average rating, showing that most guests still walk away happy.

Passengers rave about the ship’s stylish design, diverse dining spots, and relaxing spaces. Highlights include the upgraded Retreat areas and impressive evening shows enhanced with modern tech. However, service seems to be the weak point for now, with reports of long waits and slow responses – something not uncommon on newer ships as crew settle in.

11. Celebrity Millennium

This image features the Celebrity Millennium cruise ship sailing through the calm blue waters with a picturesque island in the background. The ship’s distinctive blue and white exterior stands out against the ocean and the lush, green hills of the island. The bright, sunny day and clear skies emphasize the serene, tropical setting as the ship leaves a smooth wake behind it.

Celebrity Millennium, the eldest in the Celebrity Cruises lineup, took her maiden voyage in 2000. She recently enjoyed a makeover alongside her sister ship, Celebrity Summit, to ensure she meets modern standards.

Ideal for those who love exploring destinations, Millennium isn’t packed with onboard attractions. Public areas receive high praise, along with the exceptional service from the crew. However, daytime activities can be limited, and evening shows may feel repetitive.

This image shows The Retreat on the Celebrity Millennium, an exclusive lounge area featuring luxurious sun loungers neatly arranged around a serene deck. The space is adorned with comfortable pillows and towels, offering a chic and relaxed atmosphere. A Jacuzzi is visible in the background, along with private cabanas for extra comfort. The clear skies and distant city skyline create a peaceful yet elegant setting for guests to unwind.

If you’re more into the ports of call than endless shipboard fun, Millennium might be the perfect ship for your next adventure.

12. Celebrity Constellation

This image showcases the Celebrity Constellation cruise ship sailing through calm waters, with picturesque islands and a scenic coastline visible in the background. The ship's large decks and distinctive white and blue exterior stand out as it glides smoothly through the water. The bright day, dotted with soft clouds, highlights the beauty of both the ship and the surrounding landscape, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere for a luxurious journey.

Celebrity Constellation, the final ship in the Millennium-class series, made her debut in 2002. For several years, she stood alongside Celebrity Infinity as one of the fleet’s flagships. Passengers who seek a more peaceful and relaxing cruise experience will appreciate her calm and quiet atmosphere.

There’s an emphasis on relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy sitting by the pool and indulging in premium dining. If you’re looking for vibrant activities during sea days, though, this might not be the ship for you.

Scheduled for a renovation in 2020, the refurbishment was unfortunately cancelled, leaving her last update back in 2013. Some areas show the need for a refresh to keep her up to date.

13. Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Apex is the final Edge-class ship to appear on this list, and seeing her ranked this low may surprise some. Visually stunning and impressively spacious, she offers plenty of stylish spots to relax and a wide range of activities to enjoy at sea.

Her standout feature is the Magic Carpet – a moving platform that doubles as a ramp to shore, a bar, and even a restaurant. It’s one of the most unique spaces at sea and a firm favourite with guests.

So why the lower score? Like other Edge-class ships, her size and relative newness play a part. With so many passengers, occasional complaints about service or food inconsistency are inevitable. Still, it’s a notable drop – Apex was 7th in 2024, making this year’s fall in the rankings hard to ignore.

15. Celebrity Infinity

Celebrity Infinity, part of the Millennium Class, has been sailing since 2001. While a planned update in 2020 was cancelled, with the last refresh in 2013, this ship still holds charm. You might notice some areas needing a bit of care, but it doesn’t take away from the overall comfort.

This image showcases The Retreat Lounge on the Celebrity Infinity, a sophisticated space designed for relaxation. The room features elegant seating arrangements with plush armchairs, couches, and a cozy fireplace. Soft lighting and neutral tones create a calming and luxurious atmosphere. The modern decor, including a stylish central light fixture and minimalist artwork, adds to the lounge's inviting and upscale vibe.

The ship’s calm vibe makes it easy to relax in the many quiet spots during the day. It’s not about modern glitz here; instead, you’ll enjoy a peaceful cruise experience. If excellent food and service are your main priorities, Celebrity Infinity has plenty to offer.

Tips on Choosing the Best Celebrity Ship for You

When it comes to picking a Celebrity cruise, a little research goes a long way. Every ship has its own personality, and the best choice really depends on what you’re looking for.

If it’s luxury and style you’re after, Celebrity Apex is a top pick. With sleek design, premium facilities, and plenty of chic spaces to unwind, she’s one of the fleet’s most admired ships.

For families, Celebrity Equinox often comes out on top. While the newer ships lean more towards an adult audience, Equinox strikes a balance, offering something for all ages and remaining a fan favourite year after year.

As for Celebrity Xploration and Celebrity Xpedition, these intimate vessels (just 16 guests each) were hugely popular – even ranking number 1 and 3 in 2024. But with both ships sold to Lindblad Expeditions in early 2025, they’ve now left the Celebrity fleet and no longer feature in this list.