Celebrity Ascent naming: Celebrity Cruises celebrates cruise ship

Celebrity Cruises presented its latest cruise ship, Celebrity Ascent, during a naming ceremony yesterday.

The Celebrity Ascent event featured Captain Sandy Yawn from Bravo TV’s Below Deck franchise and her sister Michelle Dunham, Founder of the Jacksonville School for Autism, christening the ship in maritime tradition by cracking a champagne bottle against the hull.

Joining them were Greek brothers Captain Dimitrios Kafetzis and Captain Tasos Kafetzis, who were appointed Co-Captains, a pioneering move for both the brand and the industry.

This Celebrity Cruises ceremony reflected the essence of a ship that defies conventional cruise perceptions with its progressive design crafted by leading architects and interior designers, Michelin-starred culinary offerings, expansive onboard entertainment and more.

Embarking on its inaugural Caribbean voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on December 3, Celebrity Ascent will navigate a seven-night Eastern Caribbean route, calling at popular destinations such as St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and the Dominican Republic.

Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said: “With each new ship, our ambition is to debut the ultimate vacation experience and Celebrity Ascent achieves this by raising the bar for premium travel.”

“Her elevated design and new onboard experiences set her apart from competitors and serve as a new benchmark for the travel industry.”

Laura Hodges Bethge, President at Celebrity Cruises, added: “Celebrity Ascent has been designed to feed our guests travel wanderlust and provide unique experiences they will covet and love.”

– READ MORE: What’s onboard new ship Celebrity Ascent? –

What’s inside Celebrity Ascent?

Celebrity Ascent stands as a sister ship to the acclaimed vessel Celebrity Beyond, offering unparalleled features including the following:

– The Retreat, an exclusive enclave for suite guests with a two-story sundeck
– Diverse accommodations ranging from modern villas to staterooms with infinite verandas
– Enhanced outdoor spaces such as the Rooftop Garden, Resort Deck and the multi-level Sunset Bar
– Expanded onboard entertainment with six new live productions, interactive gaming and live music
– Redesigned casino floor and new gaming options
– Dining enhancements including an outdoor terrace at Blu and the exclusive culinary journey at Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud
– The return of the Magic Carpet, providing uninterrupted sea views for dining and cocktails

Celebrity Ascent itineraries

Following its maiden voyage, Celebrity Ascent will offer alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries until late April, transitioning to the Mediterranean for voyages from Barcelona and Rome.

Holiday options include Bahamas, Mexico, Grand Cayman, San Juan, Tortola, St. Kitts, Italian Riviera and Greece and Italy itineraries, offering diverse experiences for travellers.