Celebrity Edge launched with critical acclaim in December 2018 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and in May 2019, re-positioned to Southampton, England for it's European launch cruising around Europe and the Mediterranean - where, incidentally, sister ship Celebrity Apex will launch from in April 2020, the second in a planned collection of 5 Edge-class ships.
The ocean cruise game is changing, with ships more akin to luxury resort stays with signature suites, dining that is evolving to be state-of-the-art and design spaces that at times can make you catch your breath. With interiors and architecture designed by Kelly Hoppen, Celebrity Cruise's Celebrity Edge boasts some of the most unique spaces at sea (discover it's luxury Suite options in our story here) across dining, lounges, one of the best spas at sea and the state of the art Magic Carpet.
Signature Dining
With 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, you're spoiled for choice with cuisines spanning the world and specialised options with more contemporary flair. Signature dining is where Celebrity Edge truly shines ranging from Fine Cut Steakhouse, enticing diners with choice cuts of meats, to Raw on 5, a premium Japanese seafood restaurant with a drinks menu that compliments the food perfectly (oyster shell infused Vodka, anyone?). Le Grand Bistro is a French offering, by day a classic style French bistro but by night the restaurant transforms into Le Petit Chef and Friends, perhaps the most technologically advanced dining experience anywhere in the world (at sea or on land). Digital mapping is projected from the ceiling down to your plate and table where little 3D animated chefs (from Spain, Italy, France and Japan) each prepare your dish before your eyes in a hilarious display, bringing the dining experience to life. It really is difficult to adequately explain in words - you'll have to come experience it for yourself.
The Grand Plaza
Celebrity Edge is so expansive in it's variety of unique spaces that you never quite feel like you're sailing with too many guests. As you board, the Grand Plaza spanning decks 3, 4 and 5 welcomes you with it's feature chandelier - unlike any other chandelier you've ever seen. During the day it changes light and colour depending on the time, being more subdued in the mornings. In the evening it transforms into a more vibrant space with the lights even changing to the music in time with the band while bartenders show off their skills at the popular Martini bar underneath.
Discover more: The Suite Life with Celebrity Cruises
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Eden
One of the most unique spaces at sea - on any cruise ship - is Eden. Much like the fabled green garden, Celebrity Edge describes it as "chillful" during the day (with a healthy grab-and-go style snack bar and specialty coffees), "playful" during the evening (think hand-crafted cocktails, cooking classes and wine tasting) and "sinful" at night making the most of it's high ceilings with theatrical performances and depending on the evening, a silent disco (perfect for every music taste). It also boats one of the best views while on the ship, with the 3 levels of Eden enveloped in 7000 square feet of glass.
Rooftop Garden
For an outdoor space to soak up those rays or enjoy the stars at night, the Rooftop Garden is your perfect escape. Plants and large, treetop-like structures like something out of Avatar mix with a design that flows and curves providing semi-private spaces to curl up with a book or enjoy a drink (or burger) from the Rooftop Garden Grill.
The Spa
The Spa on Edge has it's own quirky design as you enter, with the reception desk reminiscent of a giant bathtub. The Spa includes a full menu of spa treatments, a fitness centre and a salon and barber but the unique jewel of the spa area is the SEA Thermal Suite. You could literally spend hours here, relaxing after a deep tissue massage or sea salt wrap treatment. Located at the center of the spa, the SEA Thermal Suite comprises 8 distinct spaces and is complimentary for all AquaClass guests. After experiencing the array of indulgent options on board, detox in the Steam Room, or enjoy the healing elements of the Salt Room and Crystalarium. The Float Room will leave you feeling light as a feather, swinging in a hanging basket with large glass windows offering views of the sea.
The Magic Carpet
The most unique space of all would have to be The Magic Carpet, which interestingly is much more than just a "space". If your inner Aladdin or Jasmine has always yearned for a magic carpet experience that can show you the world, this just might be it. A world's first - designed by Tom Wright the visionary behind Dubai's famous Burj Al Arab hotel - the cantilevered platform moves up and down the side of the ship, towering over 13 stories above sea level. Equipped with a full bar, entertainment space and relaxed seating, at it's highest point it becomes the Dinner on the Edge experience. Down to deck 14 it becomes an extension of the main pool deck, then during lunch it moves dow to deck 5 for an outdoor extension to the restaurant Raw on 5.
The real magic however is down on deck 2. The tendering process on Celebrity Edge, dubbed Edge Launches, are like nothing ever before, with the Magic Carpet lowering down to deck 2 for very easy access. When we experienced the launches, the captain did a full circle of the ship for us for a very interesting and different vantage point. Upon disembarkation from the Edge Launches, we were welcomed back with a mimosa or a freshly made bloody mary.
Want to find out more? Speak to a Travel Associates cruise expert today.