19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
A Taste of the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean is a region that calls to us with iconic scenery, legendary sights and cuisine that require no introduction. If you're the type to consult your taste buds before planning your next adventure, you're in good company.
For many, planning a trip to Europe involves pining over a thin, wood-fired Margherita pizza in Naples, looking forward to sharing a variety of tasty small dishes at a tapas bar in Barcelona, or imagining strolling the cobblestone streets of Malta in search of the French- and Sicilian-tinged Mediterranean dishes Maltese cuisine is known for. When it comes to celebrated pairings, food and travel are a perfect match.
If the thing you remember most about where you travel is the food, Celebrity Cruises' newest ship, Celebrity Xcel, is the answer.
When Celebrity set out to add a vessel to its fleet, it didn't just build a ship; it built new ways to explore the world before you even get there — the restaurant you'll never forget, the date night so good it lasts all day long and the holiday you'll always remember.
Bringing the flavour from shore to ship
Whether it is the smell of freshly baked goods and spices, or the sight of vibrant colours, Europe's markets offer travellers so much more than fresh produce — it's a gastronomic extravaganza. Imagine being able to enjoy this exact experience before you even step off the ship. From Greece, to Morocco, Italy, Spain and more, this will now become a reality when Celebrity Xcel commences her first European season in 2026.
The Bazaar is a first-of-its-kind concept that introduces authentic experiences to erase the line between ship and shore, giving guests the chance to further explore the destinations they visit in the most unconventional way. Think local markets, cultural festivals, artisanal goods and one-of-a-kind finds. The experience is so authentic, you won't even know you're not there yet.
You can also get a taste of Europe without stepping off the ship with a range of culinary experiences onboard Celebrity Xcel. Spice and Mosaic — two of the ships' new dining venues — offer menus with a selection of rotating offerings inspired by the ports visited on the itinerary.
Meanwhile, Celebrity's first destination-inspired cooking school, the Chef's Studio, will have you taking the flavours of the Mediterranean home with you after learning the secrets to dishes made famous by the places you visit.
