March 08–15, 2026
Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Xcel
Join us aboard the spectacular new Celebrity Xcel, sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida for a luxurious 7-night Caribbean gay group cruise getaway. Enjoy unforgettable ports of call, private onboard experiences, and world-class amenities designed for relaxation, connection, and fun in the sun. This elegant voyage combines vibrant island adventures with Celebrity Cruises’ signature luxury, creating the perfect setting for our LGBTQ+ travelers to unwind, celebrate, and make lasting memories.
Caribbean is home to all kinds of tropical delights, from some of the world’s best coral reefs to historic ruins and spectacular beaches. On Caribbean cruise, spend your days in or on the water, savoring fresh seafood al fresco, hiking lush rainforests, or lounging on the region’s unparalleled stretches of sand.
Foodies love Caribbean cruise vacations, where chefs fuse traditional dishes with local fruits for enchanting flavors. Enjoy mahi-mahi, grouper, kingfish, red and yellowtail snapper, and conch from the iconic shell. Get chicken, pork, and duck served fried, grilled, roasted, or blackened. For lunch on the go, grab some hearty empanadas, and don't miss the guacamole and margaritas.
Discover Paradise on Caribbean Cruise
Dominican Republic cruises bring you to a world of almost impossible beauty: a landscape of jungle-swathed mountains, serene mangroves, and silvery-gold beaches. Then there’s the intoxicating rhythm of merengue, the atmospheric old cities, and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans on the tropical breeze.
Explore Puerto Plata, the north coast’s oldest city, where elegant Victorian architecture meets artistic local touches and fortifications that have stood guard for centuries. Delve into the island’s natural attractions for heart-thumping zipline adventures, natural rock slides that lead to cool pools, and off-road thrill rides. While in town on your Caribbean cruise, try cigar rolling, shop for the Dominican Republic’s famous amber jewelry, or simply unwind on the soft sand and listen to the gentle sound of waves breaking on the shore.
A cruise to St. Thomas will take you to the largest of the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), a laid-back archipelago fringed by white sand beaches and sparkling sapphire seas. Unwind under a sun umbrella, snorkel over rainbow-colored reefs, take a sailing trip, or explore some of the island’s nature trails and viewpoints. You can also head to sleepy St. John, a pristine spot for snorkeling and admiring marine life.
On a St. Maarten cruise, visit the Caribbean's most charming split personality that’s half Dutch, half French, and all irresistible. This is a tiny slice of Europe in the Caribbean, where you can sample Dutch cheeses in Philipsburg, then hop across to Marigot for buttery croissants still warm from the oven. Explore dazzling coral reefs, then recharge on one of the island’s pristine, golden sand beaches. Perfect your downward dog in an al-fresco yoga class, or sample the spicy wares of one of the island’s rum distilleries. Even the shopping reflects the island’s duality, whether you’re browsing Marigot’s vibrant market for island spices or picking up duty-free bargains in Philipsburg.
Celebrity Xcel - Celebrity's Newest Resort at Sea!
Introducing Celebrity Cruises newest award-winning resort at sea, Celebrity Xcel, the fourth and most innovative ship in our highly awarded Edge Series. Celebrity Xcel features 32 distinctive restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud.
Xcel includes all the best of our Edge Series ships, from the inviting multi-deck Sunset Bar designed by Edge Series Travel Ambassador Nate Berkus to the open-air Rooftop Garden where two cantilevered floating pools offer breathtaking views six feet over the ship's edge. World-class accommodations include our spa-inspired AquaClass staterooms, the revolutionary Infinite Veranda staterooms that take you to the water’s edge, and The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, lounge and sundeck for our suite guests. Book now to relax and renew on Celebrity Ascent.
Through the latest 3-D technology, we’ve fine-tuned every detail of the ship like never before. From the incredible Magic Carpet – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that reaches heights of 13 storeys above sea level – to the private plunge pools in our new Edge Villas; the way you cruise will never be the same again.
Magic Carpet Soar over the open ocean on our Magic Carpet. Reaching heights of 13 storeys above sea level, the Magic Carpet is the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform. Majestically situated on the starboard side of Celebrity Xcel.
Pool Bar Situated alongside the 25-yard lap pool (the largest in our fleet) and underneath an ever-changing, abstract mirror installation is the Pool Bar. An serene spot to relax, sip your favourite cocktail and take in your stunning surroundings.
Roof Top Garden Full of unexpected pleasures day and night, The Rooftop Garden is a living urban playscape inspired by childhood playgrounds. Catch a movie at A Taste of Film; dance the night away to a live band; or dine at the Rooftop Garden Grill.
Solarium
The adults only Solarium is one of the most blissful spots on the ship and features a 3D art wall.
Pool Deck
With oversized art installations including unique treetop sculptures; two 2-storey Jacuzzis; and 165-square-feet by 18-feet-high private Cabanas, The Pool Deck is a spectacular asymmetrical space with a distinct resort-style atmosphere.
Resort Deck
On Deck 14 you’ll find endless ways to enjoy the outdoors and connect with the sea. Or as we call it, The Resort Deck, which includes the main pool area, the new Rooftop Garden, the jogging track, and the adults only Solarium.
Suite Deck
A chic, spacious outdoor area with stylish furniture, a full-sized pool, a Jacuzzi and dedicated Pool Butlers – a private paradise aboard a floating paradise, exclusively for Suite Class guests.
Edge Villas
Our 2-storey Edge Villas, Suites designed exclusively for Celebrity Edge Class boast 950 square feet of split level, indoor-outdoor splendour.
Infinite Balcony Staterooms
Our new Edge Staterooms feature an Infinite Balcony – touch a button and your entire living space becomes the balcony, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
Xcel Caribbean Gay Group Cruise 2026 Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
08 Mar
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
4 PM
09 Mar
Fun Day at Sea!
10 Mar
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
7 AM
3 PM
11 Mar
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
11:30 AM
7 PM
12 Mar
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
8 AM
6 PM
13 Mar
Fun Day at Sea!
14 Mar
Fun Day at Sea!
15 Mar
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
7 AM
Day 1 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
During your cruise from Fort Lauderdale, head out to the Everglades and enjoy Flamingo Gardens, home to pink flamingos, snarling alligators, black bears, and Florida panthers - plus exotic trees, butterfly gardens, and native flowers.
You'll find great shopping on Fort Lauderdale cruise. Look for high fashion at Galleria Fort Lauderdale, north of the port and blocks from the ocean. Head west to Sawgrass Mills for 350 designer outlets, specialty shops, and eateries. Spend a relaxing day in downtown Hollywood, south of the port, for quaint shops, sidewalk cafés, and events in the park.
Day 2 - Fun Day at Sea!
While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.
Day 3 - Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Puerto Plata was inhabited by the Taino people for centuries before Christopher Columbus arrived and founded the city in the early 1500s. By the 20th century, Puerto Plata had emerged as the Dominican Republic’s main tourism hub. You can paddle through a manatee reserve or zipline over treetops. Go for a swim at the awe-inspiring 27 Waterfalls complex. Hike through the lush, protected jungle of El Choco National Park, enjoying the park’s two lagoons. Swim with dolphins at World Ocean, the largest manmade dolphin habitat in the world, or grab a kayak and head out on the water at Manatee Reserve. Nature, adventure, history – Puerto Plata has it all.
Day 4 - Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Charlotte Amalie is the enchanting capital of St. Thomas that has attracted pirates and sailors the world over for centuries. The island enjoys a fascinating fusion of Danish, French, Spaniard, West African and Carib influences. There’s so much to discover on a cruise to St. Thomas. For a nice overview of the island’s history head to Fort Christian Museum. Experience the beauty of St. Thomas beaches with a wonderful picnic on Magens Bay beach or snorkel in the turquoise Caribbean Sea where you’ll come up close to corals, sponges, and schools of colorful tropical fish. Authentic island dishes like savory curries with roti, the freshest seafood, and delicious drinks made with the finest local rums are readily available on restaurant menus. And, while the beaches and ocean are beautiful, there is one thing that really sets St. Thomas apart - shopping.
Day 5 - Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Cruise to St. Maarten and explore the dozens of alluring beaches that ring the island. At Orient Beach, sunbathers bask and beachcombers stroll on the white sands, while divers and snorkelers
explore the sunken shipwrecks and marine life just offshore. You'll really get blown away at Jet Blast Beach (officially Maho Beach), next to the airport. Embrace all the beauty of the island on a tour to the French capital, Marigot, where you can explore the quaint streets and cafés, open-air market, and 18th-century Fort Louis. Take a scenic cruise of Simpson Bay Lagoon, site of luxurious villas and megayachts. More tours show you charming Grand Case and Orient Bay.
Day 6 - A Day at Sea!
While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.
Day 7 - A Day at Sea!
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 8 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida Fort Lauderdale is tropical paradise for gay city dwellers. The city offers gay beaches, naked beaches, sultry swimming pools at exclusively gay resorts, and gay bars and clubs that cater to everyone from bears to softball players to singles looking for a quiet lounge atmosphere for a date.
Xcel Caribbean Gay Group Cruise 2026 Rates
(Updated 12.11.25. - Current prices/availability.)
Category
Description
Double Occupancy
$ USD
No Perks Included
Double Occupancy
$ USD
Two Perks Included
INSIDE STATEROOMS
I2 - Inside Double Stateroom
Our cosy and contemporary interior staterooms are ideal for relaxing and refreshing, ready for a holiday you will never forget. With a sofa and flatscreen TV, it is a home away from home. When night falls, settle down in your sumptuous bed for a serene and well-deserved rest.
DI - Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Interior space 181-202 sq. ft. Stylishly designed with ample living space, bigger bathrooms, and more storage space, the Deluxe Inside Staterooms are a comfortable home away from home where you’ll find it easy to unwind.
$ 1,450
$ 2,045
OCEANVIEW STATEROOMS
O2 - Ocean View double stateroom with window
Enjoy some of the best views of your holiday, before you have even reached your destination. From the sumptuous bed, look out to see oceans and islands passing by. With warm décor and thoughtful design, learn more about the best place to wind down after a day of discovery.
O1 - Prime Ocean View double stateroom with window
Enjoy some of the best views of your holiday, before you have even reached your destination. From the sumptuous bed, look out to see oceans and islands passing by. With warm décor and thoughtful design, learn more about the best place to wind down after a day of discovery.
$ 1,661
$ 2,256
DO - Deluxe Ocean View double stateroom with window
Enjoy some of the best views of your holiday, before you have even reached your destination. From the sumptuous bed, look out to see oceans and islands passing by. With warm décor and thoughtful design, learn more about the best place to wind down after a day of discovery.
PO - Panoramic Ocean View stateroom
Enjoy ever-changing vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows, plus more space than our standard Ocean View Stateroom. Panoramic Ocean View Staterooms are ideal for families and travelers looking to relax in modern luxury. They’re conveniently located forward and mid-ship and furnished for pure indulgence.
VERANDA STATEROOMS
P2 - Deluxe ocean view double stateroom with veranda
The balcony is your personal sanctuary, where you can relax and linger over a morning coffee, enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or simply sit back and marvel at beautiful sunsets. Or choose an Infinite Balcony, designed exclusively for Edge Class.
P1 - Deluxe ocean view double stateroom with veranda
The balcony is your personal sanctuary, where you can relax and linger over a morning coffee, enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or simply sit back and marvel at beautiful sunsets. Or choose an Infinite Balcony, designed exclusively for Edge Class.
SV - Sunset Veranda Stateroom
The balcony is your personal sanctuary, where you can relax and linger over a morning coffee, enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or simply sit back and marvel at beautiful sunsets. Or choose an Infinite Balcony, designed exclusively for Edge Class. Located at either end of the ship, the Sunset Veranda guarantees the best view of breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. With the largest veranda of any Edge Class stateroom, these offer superb ocean views at the stern of the ship.
ES - Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda is for modern travelers who love to explore the world on their own. Please note that this rate is for the stateroom since the room is only for one guest.
EX - Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda Guarantee*
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
$ 1,968
$ 2,560
E3 - Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
E2 - Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
E1 - Prime Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
CONCIERGE CLASS VERANDA STATEROOMS
C3 - Concierge Class double stateroom with veranda
Concierge Class is the perfect choice if you want to know everything is taken care of. And, exclusive to Edge Class, your Concierge Class Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony - with the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
C2 - Concierge Class double stateroom with veranda
Concierge Class is the perfect choice if you want to know everything is taken care of. And, exclusive to Edge Class, your Concierge Class Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony - with the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
C1 - Prime Concierge Class double stateroom with veranda
Concierge Class is the perfect choice if you want to know everything is taken care of. And, exclusive to Edge Class, your Concierge Class Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony - with the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
AQUA CLASS VERANDA STATEROOMS
A2 - Aqua Class stateroom with veranda
Our AquaClass staterooms are designed for anybody seeking well-being and relaxation. Exclusive to Edge Class, your AquaClass Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony. With the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
A1 - Aqua Class stateroom with veranda
Our AquaClass staterooms are designed for anybody seeking well-being and relaxation. Exclusive to Edge Class, your AquaClass Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony. With the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
SUITES
W - Suite Guarantee*
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
MS - Magic Carpet Sky Suite
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
$ 4,910
$ 4,910
S1 - Sky Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and veranda
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
$ 5,010
$ 5,010
AS - Aqua Class Sky Suite
Total living space 319 sq. ft.
Veranda 79 Sq. ft. Wellness is so fundamental to our philosophy, we’ve created a whole new way to nourish your mind, body, and spirit on vacation. Introducing our AquaClass® Sky Suites, which combine the best of our AquaClass stateroom experiences with the luxurious spaces, services, and amenities of The Retreat to leave you more renewed than ever. Inside your AquaClass Sky Suite, you can lose yourself in the refreshing floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Breathe in the salt air on your private veranda with comfy lounge seating. Recharge on your king-sized Cashmere Mattress with our exclusive eXhale bedding and a custom pillow menu.
$ 5,705
$ 5,705
SS - Sunset Sky Suite
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
$ 5,988
$ 5,988
CS - Celebrity Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows
The master bedroom has a king-sized bed and a private veranda to overlook the sea beyond. The split bathroom arrangement offers a powder room, a separate spa tub/shower area, and a master dressing area with dual sink and vanity, and a full wardrobe. Celebrity Suites are located close to the Retreat that features a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Connect a Celebrity Suite to an Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda to create a space perfect for getaways with a group of friends.
RS - Royal Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and veranda
The master bedroom has a king-sized bed that faces the panoramic window and overlooks the private veranda and the sea beyond, with a large soaking tub with a separate shower, double sink vanity, and a sliding panel that opens to views of the sea. Royal Suites are located close to the Retreat that features a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar.
$ 12,242
$ 12,242
EV - Edge Villa
The unique design of the Edge Villas seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. With two stories of windows that look out over the terrace (featuring a three-feet-deep plunge pool and inviting lounge furniture) to the incredible ocean views beyond, it’s an open and airy environment that truly invites the outside in, and vice versa. Edge Villas not only offer private outdoor terraces, but they also have direct access to The Retreat, an exclusive area for Suite Class guests. Step right out to The Retreat Sundeck and The Retreat Pool and bar, or retreat to your own private oceanfront villa.
PS - Penthouse Suite
The Penthouse Suites combine all the innovative amenities of our staterooms with the exclusive benefits of being a Suite Class guest. They include a master bedroom, bathroom, and dressing room, living/dining area, guest bedroom and bathroom, terrace, and private hot tub, plus a butler on hand to ensure you never have to lift a finger during your vacation.
IC - Iconic Suite
Iconic Suites boast two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, featuring a full shower, whirlpool tub, and nothing but the best amenities. Enough space for six guests to comfortably unwind in, there’s even an in-suite butler’s pantry for those occasions when you feel like entertaining. If you want the ultimate in indulgence at sea, there’s no other way to go than Iconic.
All prices are per person, double occupancy, and include all meals, accommodations and entertainment!
Port Taxes included in price.
Gratuities, and optional insurance are additional.
First deposit of $400 (Interior, Ocean View), $450 (Veranda, Concierge), $550 (Aqua Class), $1,000 (Suites) per person is required upon booking. Balance payment is due 90 days prior to sailing.
A service gratuity will be automatically applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis:
• Inside, Ocean View, and Veranda staterooms: US$ 18 per guest, per day
• Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms:US$ 19 per guest, per day
• The Retreat Suites: US$ 23 per guest, per day
Optional shore excursions will be offered.
Prices are cruise only and DO NOT INCLUDE return airfare! Please ask for airfare add-ons back to your home city.
Fares are subject to availability and may change without prior notice.
Also included are the traditional gay group escort and activities, subject to minimum participation.
As long as the group minimum space requirements are met, then an onboard gay group host will be assigned. On our Hosted Group Cruises, we will have a representative on the cruise with you. We will have nightly meet ups and we will usually have a group shore excursion. A non-hosted Group Cruise is a cruise we organize, and we will arrange for a nighly meet up, but there will not be our representative onboard.
PLEASE NOTE: Passengers who book Aqua Class (A1 or A2) cabins will be assigned to a different dining room, the Blu restaurant, and not the main dining room.
Please ask for further details.
No Perks Fares! Please refer to the pricing column with lower fares that do not qualify for any perks.
Two Perks Fares! Book any non-suite category and receive the following two perks: Classic beverage packages and unlimited onboard internet packages!
Suite deal! Book a Suite and get all the following perks: complimentary Premium beverage packages, unlimited onboard ‘stream’ internet packages!
The above promotions are capacity controlled and offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice.
