Royal Caribbean Orders New Edge-Class Ship

Royal Caribbean Group has signed a contract with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique for the construction of a sixth Edge-series ship. This new vessel, named Edge 6 or “Xcel 2,” is set to join the fleet of Celebrity Cruises and is expected to be delivered in 2028. The ship will be a sister vessel to the Celebrity Xcel, which is preparing for its inaugural voyage later this year. This agreement highlights Royal Caribbean’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation in the cruise industry.

Details of the New Ship and Sustainability Goals

The Edge 6 will feature advanced technology, including a tri-fuel capable engine, which aligns with Royal Caribbean Group’s vision of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This initiative is part of the company’s broader strategy, known as Destination Net Zero. The Celebrity Xcel, which recently floated out of dry dock, is a billion-dollar investment that emphasizes the cruise line’s commitment to environmental sustainability. It is designed to operate on methanol, a cleaner fuel option that reduces carbon emissions.

Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge expressed excitement about the new ship, stating that it will be a “happy place for vacationers globally” upon its launch. The Edge series, which began with the Celebrity Edge in 2018, has set a new standard in the cruise industry for elegance and performance. Other ships in the series include Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Apex, all of which have contributed to the innovative reputation of the Edge class.

Laurent Castaing, CEO of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, emphasized the strong partnership between the shipbuilder and Royal Caribbean Group. He noted that this sixth ship represents a significant milestone in the evolution of cruise ship design, combining elegance with high performance and innovative features. The agreement for Edge 6 is subject to customary conditions, including financing, as Royal Caribbean continues to expand its fleet. Currently, the company has eight ships on order, with two new vessels expected to join the fleet this year, including the LNG-fueled Star of the Seas.