Celebrity River Cruises Confirms Major Fleet Expansion With 10 New Ships

Celebrity River Cruises has officially announced a major expansion plan that will reshape its presence in the European river cruise market. The company confirmed it has committed to building 10 new river cruise ships, which will increase its total European river fleet to 20 vessels by the year 2031. The news was shared through an official press release and signals strong confidence in the growing demand for river cruising in Europe.

This expansion places Celebrity River Cruises among the largest river cruise operators in Europe, giving travelers access to more routes, more ports, and more sailings than before.

Construction Begins With Celebrity Compass for 2027

The announcement also marks the start of construction for the brand’s first river cruise ship. The company has officially cut the first steel for Celebrity Compass, which is scheduled to enter service in 2027.

Celebrity Compass will be the first step in bringing the brand’s well-known onboard service and design style to Europe’s famous rivers. This milestone confirms that Celebrity River Cruises is moving quickly from planning to execution, with new ships already taking shape.

European River Cruise Network Expands Rapidly

With the new ships coming online, Celebrity River Cruises will offer a much broader range of itineraries across Europe. The company revealed that its 2028 river cruise season is now open for booking, and it brings a major increase in options for travelers.

For 2028, Celebrity River Cruises plans to offer:

• More than 160 river sailings
• Over 50 destinations across Europe
• An 80 percent increase in destinations compared to 2027

This large expansion means guests can explore more cities, towns, and cultural sites along Europe’s most popular rivers.

Rhine and Danube Cruises Get a Bigger Focus in 2028

Celebrity River Cruises also confirmed that the Rhine and Danube rivers will play a bigger role in its 2028 schedule. These two rivers remain favorites for European river travelers due to their historic cities, scenic views, and easy access to cultural landmarks.

In 2028, the company will include 24 different ports across Rhine and Danube itineraries, offering guests more variety and flexible travel options.

Strong Demand Drives Celebrity River Cruises Growth

The decision to expand comes after an overwhelming response to the brand’s first river cruise season. Celebrity Cruises shared that its entire 2027 river cruise season sold out in less than six minutes, showing how strong guest interest has been from the start.

Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said the demand for Celebrity River Cruises exceeded expectations. He explained that expanding the fleet allows more travelers to enjoy river cruising while staying within the Celebrity brand they already trust.

Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, also highlighted that the fast sell-out proved how much guests value Celebrity’s service and hospitality. She added that opening the 2028 season with more ships and more destinations gives travelers many new ways to experience Europe’s rivers.

Celebrity River Cruises Sets Long-Term Vision for Europe

With 20 ships planned by 2031, Celebrity River Cruises is clearly positioning itself for long-term growth in the European river cruise space. The expanded fleet, wider destination list, and strong early bookings show that river cruising is becoming a key part of Celebrity’s plans.

As more ships join the fleet over the coming years, travelers can expect even more choice, smoother travel experiences, and a consistent Celebrity-style journey along Europe’s most famous rivers.