Sold Out in Under Six Minutes Now This Cruise Line is Going Bigger on River Cruises

Celebrity just made a move that’s going to get river cruise fans talking.

A brand-new announcement hints at a much bigger Europe lineup coming soon, with more ways to explore, more options to choose from, and a clear sign they’re planning for the long haul.

If you’ve been waiting for the “right year” to do a European river cruise, this update might be the one that bumps it to the top of your list.

What Celebrity River Cruises Just Announced

Celebrity River Cruises says its 2028 European season is now open for booking, and it’s pairing that launch with a major fleet expansion plan. The company says it has committed to 10 additional ships, building toward a 20-ship river fleet by 2031.

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. — Celebrity Apex Sailing Through Norwegian Fjords

Celebrity also says construction is already moving, including the first steel cut for Celebrity Compass, the brand’s debut river ship. That’s the kind of detail that usually means this is past the “idea” phase and firmly in the “it’s happening” phase.

Why 2028 Is The Year They Want You To Notice

Celebrity says 2028 will feature an 80% increase in European destinations compared with its inaugural 2027 season. The company also says the 2028 lineup includes more than 160 sailings to over 50 destinations across Europe, plus itineraries that add 24 new ports.

If you love the idea of moving through Europe without constantly dragging your suitcase across train platforms, this is the appeal. Celebrity even describes a day that starts in Prague and ends at a café in Vienna, which is very “see a lot, stress a little” in the best way.

Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague at golden hour, with historic towers and colorful Old Town buildings in the background. — Prague

Celebrity also pointed to just how fast the first season disappeared. Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, stated “Our inaugural 2027 Celebrity River Cruises season sold out in under six minutes – a testament to how much guests value the unmatched hospitality and service Celebrity delivers.” If you’re eyeing 2028, that early demand is a good reminder to book sooner rather than later.

Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group’s CEO, tied the expansion directly to demand, saying, “Guest demand for Celebrity River Cruises has exceeded our expectations, and expanding the fleet allows us to bring this highly anticipated experience to even more travelers.” It’s a very clear signal that Celebrity believes river cruising is going to be a long-term focus.

Which Ships Are Coming First

Celebrity says river operations start in 2027 with Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker. In 2028, three more ships are scheduled to join the fleet: Celebrity Wanderer, Celebrity Roamer, and Celebrity Boundless.

Celebrity Beyond docked at night with illuminated decks and hull, creating a dramatic, moody atmosphere.

That faster ramp matters if you want more date options and more routes. It also gives travelers a chance to pick between the earliest season and a second year that comes with more ships and more variety.

The Itinerary Styles They Highlighted For 2028

Celebrity called out several itinerary types for 2028, ranging from classic river routes to seasonal sailings. The overall theme is choice, with options that lean into big cities, scenic stretches, and special time-of-year travel.

Lower Danube cruises include six sailings and start with an overnight land stay in Bucharest before continuing by river through the Iron Gates gorge. Celebrity positions this route as a mix of history, culture, and dramatic scenery.

Rhine cruises include 60+ sailings between Basel and Amsterdam, with stops that can include Strasbourg, Breisach, and Rüdesheim. This is the route people picture when they think “castles, vineyards, and charming riverside towns.”

Upper Danube routes sail between Regensburg or Nuremberg and Budapest, traveling through Germany, Austria, and Hungary. Some departures line up with the Gäuboden Festival in Straubing, which adds a built-in local celebration stop to the trip.

Dutch Tulip Season cruises run between Brussels and Amsterdam during peak spring bloom, with visits that can include Keukenhof, the windmills of Kinderdijk, and Maastricht. If you want the Netherlands at its most photogenic, this is the timing.

Santa Claus in a red suit hands out treats to a family at a festive Christmas market in a European town on a snowy city street.

Christmas Markets cruises also sail between Basel and Amsterdam, featuring festive stops such as Mainz, Strasbourg, and Heidelberg. Expect cozy town centers, holiday stalls, and that classic winter-in-Europe vibe.

How To Book

Celebrity says 2028 sailings are available now through its website, by calling 1-833-474-8803, through the Future Cruise desk onboard any Celebrity ship, or through a travel advisor. If you like having someone compare cabins, watch pricing, and keep an eye on availability, this is the kind of booking where an advisor can save you time.