Celebrity Apex Launches 2025 European Season from Southampton: Focus on Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

Initially, two voyages are scheduled, heading to Portugal, Spain, and the Canary Islands. From May 3rd onwards, the focus will shift to Northern Europe. The cruise line has expanded its offerings in this region, particularly sailings through the Norwegian fjords. Additionally, more itineraries are planned that venture beyond the Arctic Circle. Trondheim in Central Norway will be added as a new port of call.

For itineraries themed "Best of Scandinavia," the Celebrity Apex will navigate to various Baltic Sea capitals, including Tallinn, Helsinki, and Stockholm. The ports of Visby on Gotland and Skagen in Denmark are also on the schedule. A special highlight of this route is a two-day stay in Copenhagen.

President's Cruise in May Through Norway's Fjord Landscape

Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, commented on the ship's return to Southampton: "The feedback from our guests regarding the fantastic Apex itineraries last year was overwhelmingly positive. Therefore, we are delighted to base this unique ship in Southampton again this summer." Hodges Bethge will personally be on board in May to accompany the special President's Cruise.

This unique voyage begins on May 17th and travels through the stunning fjord landscape of Norway. The President's Cruise offers members of the "Captain's Club" loyalty program the opportunity to personally meet the Celebrity Cruises leadership team. The supporting program includes culinary events with star chef Daniel Boulud, the line's Global Culinary Ambassador, as well as exclusive entertainment shows and specially organized shore excursions accompanied by the President.

The Ship: The Celebrity Apex in Detail

As the second ship in Celebrity Cruises' Edge Class, the Celebrity Apex is characterized by an innovative, outward-facing design concept and visionary spaces. Passengers are offered a sophisticated cruise experience.

A distinctive feature is the "Magic Carpet," a cantilevered, movable platform on the starboard side. During the day, it serves as an extension of the pool deck with a bar and lounge area, transforming in the evening into an additional outdoor space for one of the specialty restaurants – always offering direct sea views.

Located on the main deck is the expansive "Rooftop Garden," an intensively landscaped area with numerous seating options and comfortable lounge furniture, which has established itself as a popular retreat.

Further innovations on board include the two-story "Edge Villas" with private plunge pools and the "Infinite Veranda" staterooms. The latter feature floor-to-ceiling windows, the top part of which can be lowered at the touch of a button, creating an integrated balcony. For suite guests, "The Retreat" is available – an exclusive area based on the "ship-within-a-ship" concept, offering its own private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck.

The culinary diversity aboard the Celebrity Apex encompasses 29 restaurants, bars, and lounges. From classic steaks at the "Fine Cut Steakhouse" and seafood at "Raw on 5" to the creative offerings at "Eden," guests can expect a wide array of internationally inspired menus.

The entertainment program is also comprehensive. The main theatre hosts three exclusive stage shows – "Rockumentary," "Tree of Life," and "Crystallize" – featuring a mix of dynamic music, impressive choreography, and acrobatics. The offerings are complemented by an intimate cabaret show in "The Club" and other high-quality entertainment formats distributed throughout the ship, comparable to performances ashore.