Celebrity Cruises newest ship is in Europe, plus new benefits with Hard Rock casino

Celebrity’s newest ship, Celebrity Ascent, is gearing up for her first-ever European season. Sailing to countries like Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Turkey, guests can enjoy rich European history while cruising on one of the most stunning ships at sea. 

She’ll arrive in Barcelona on April 27 and embark on a 9-night sailing to the Italian Riveria and France, including an overnight stay in La Spezia, giving guests ample opportunities to explore “the gateway to the Cinque Terre.” 

Back onboard the ship, passengers can enjoy the upscale amenities, with spaces imagined by world-class designers including Nate Berkus and Kelly Hoppen CBE, as well as culinary experiences headed by a Michelin-starred chef. 

“We’re bringing our latest and greatest Edge Series ship to Europe, enabling guests to discover this diverse region with its stunning coastlines, while enjoying Celebrity Ascent’s premium facilities, elevated food and drink experiences, and wonderful entertainment,” says Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises.

Celebrity Ascent will sail on a variety of 7- to 12-night voyages departing from various ports across Europe including Barcelona, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; and Athens (Piraeus), Greece. 

The season will conclude with a 13-night transatlantic voyage on October 26. The cruise will depart from Barcelona calling on Alicante, Spain; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; Ponta Delgada, Portugal; and Kings Wharf, Bermuda before arriving in Fort Lauderdale on November 8. The ship will return to Europe in 2025. 

From lounging in the beautiful adults-only Solarium to indulging in world-class cuisine, attending upbeat dance parties underneath the stars, and watching cutting-edge performances, there’s so much to explore and enjoy onboard Celebrity Ascent. 

Read more: I spent $4,600 for a seven-night cruise on Celebrity Ascent

In addition to European voyages, guests may also sail to Perfect Day at CocoCay onboard one of Celebrity’s ships 

Celebrity Reflection departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on April 21, arriving at CocoCay the next morning alongside Wonder of the Seas. She was the first Celebrity ship to call on the private island since Royal Caribbean completed a $250 million renovation in 2019. Celebrity Beyond became the second Celebrity vessel to visit the island the following day. 

“Guest feedback inspired the new shorter Caribbean itineraries, designed to offer year-round opportunities to unwind with loved ones,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. 

“Introducing Perfect Day at CocoCay presents new experiences for Celebrity guests seeking quick beach getaway escapes close to home.”

It’s a winning formula: those who want to sail onboard one of Celebrity’s upscale ships and also visit the award-winning island can do so. CocoCay is no longer just a family-friendly port of call, as there are options for those seeking a more adult-oriented and refined experience. 

Read more: I went to Royal Caribbean’s private island on a Celebrity cruise ship

Brand-new partnership between Hard Rock and Royal Caribbean Group

Hard Rock International, Seminole Gaming, and Royal Caribbean Group (Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean) announced a new partnership that will allow guests to take advantage of accommodations, meals, discounts, and more at Hard Rock and Seminole casinos, hotels, and cafes, as well as onboard Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruises. 

Those who are members of Unity by Hard Rock, Club Royale, and/or the Blue Chip Club will receive reciprocal benefits anytime they are playing, dining, shopping, or staying at select Hard Rock locations and Celebrity/Royal Caribbean ships. 

“Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are thrilled to help our valued guests and team members bring their love of entertainment, traveling, dining, and gaming to the high seas through this incredible ‘no limits’ partnership with our South Florida neighbors at Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises,” said Jeff Hook, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Seminole Hard Rock Support Services. 

Read more: I gambled enough in Royal Caribbean’s casino to get free drinks and a cruise

“Whether extending their cruise vacation at one of our port-adjacent properties, visiting one of the participating Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe locations worldwide, or enjoying the cruise lines’ ships sailing around the world, travelers will have new ways to enjoy the best of what Hard Rock, Seminole Casinos and Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have to offer.”

In addition to discounts on cruises, Unity by Hard Rock loyalty members can qualify for invite-only getaways. Plus, top-tier members will receive an annual complimentary cruise on select ships and itineraries. 

Those who are part of Club Royale and/or the Blue Chip Club will be eligible for exclusive discounts, too, as well as annual complimentary trips at select Hard Rock hotels and casinos worldwide. 

“Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are the perfect partners for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. This partnership expands the ways our guests can enjoy their vacations and experience entertainment, dining, and gaming from ship to shore,” said Jesse Hopfinger, Senior Vice President, Onboard Revenue, Royal Caribbean International. 

“We are also excited to welcome Hard Rock fans to make memories with us on amazing vacations that serve up everything they could want and more while visiting beautiful destinations around the world, including our award-winning private island – Perfect Day at CocoCay – in The Bahamas.”