Edge – the line’s first new class of ship to launch in more than 10 years – will homeport in Fort Lauderdale and sail its maiden voyage on November 21 and inaugural season around the Caribbean.
The vessel will later move to the Mediterranean with a range of seven- to 11-night sailings in 2019.
Among its features, Edge, which will be joined by three sister ships in 2020, 2021 and 2022, boasts a travelling platform and dining area known as a Magic Carpet, capable of transporting guests between decks as well as suites designed by interior designer Kelly Hoppen.
Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity Cruises’ president and chief executive, said: “This truly is an exciting moment for our brand.
“The float out process marks a milestone in the building of Celebrity Edge. With exterior construction complete, the amazing STX France team will now turn their attention to bringing all of the meticulously designed venues and transformational staterooms and suites to life.”
Earlier this month, Lutoff-Perlo told TTG she believed it was only “a matter of time” before Celebrity bases one of its upcoming Edge-class ships out of the UK if demand from the market persisted.
The UK trade will get a chance to experience Edge during its visit to Southampton for a two-night preview sailing from May 13-15.
Jo Rzymowska, vice-president and managing director, UK & Ireland and Asia also told TTG Celebrity was aiming to keep “between 80-100 cabins” for trade partners during the preview voyage,
