Luxury Cruising Editorial

The latest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, Celebrity Xcel joins the very popular Edge Class of ships in November 2025. But even a brand-new ship can’t solve the problem of having some cabins that are just better than others.

Whether it’s down to location onboard, certain design quirks that can’t be avoided, or just personal preferences, there are going to be some cabins on Celebrity Xcel that you should avoid when you book your cruise.

And I’m not just talking about the differences between the smaller Inside Cabins and the bigger Suites – though I will cover that too. But I’m going to make it easy for you to avoid the cabins within those categories that could spoil your cruise on this stunning ship.

Obviously, Celebrity Xcel hasn’t launched yet, so where I can I’ll illustrate my points with photos and videos from other Edge-class ships, rather than using stock imagery of how the cabins will look.

Celebrity Xcel Cabin Types

In order to give you a complete picture of your best cabin options, it’s best to start with an overview of the different cabin types you can book on this ship.

There are seven main categories, so already there’s plenty of choice even before we delve into the sub-categories.

The biggest differences – and biggest price jumps – usually come down to which cabin category you choose. If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, the Inside Staterooms might look like a great money-saving option.

But going for the cheapest choice doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best value – especially if it turns out to be a poor fit for your trip.

Like any cruise ship, Celebrity Xcel offers a wide range of cabins, and choosing the right one can feel a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider, and it’s easy to get lost in the details.

To help simplify things, I’ve put together a straightforward checklist that you can use whenever you’re booking a cruise – not just on Celebrity Xcel. It covers all the important points to think about so you can find the cabin that suits you best.

You can download it here:

Celebrity Xcel Inside Cabins

Xcel’s Inside Staterooms are the cosy, budget-conscious choice – ideal if you prefer a completely blacked-out space for a good night’s sleep, or if you’d rather put your money towards fine dining than a room with more square footage.

Sizes range from 181 to 202 square feet, with a few accessible cabins offering a little extra space at 231 square feet.

A handful of these Inside Staterooms also connect to Sky Suites through a shared private vestibule – a smart option if you’re travelling with family or friends and want to strike the right balance between privacy and being close. I’ll touch more on those shortly.

Inside Cabin Grades

Deluxe Inside (DI) cabins are a slightly bigger option, and there are more of those compared to the I2 Insides. But be aware that not all of them can accommodate up to four guests, so it’s something to double-check if you’re booking for a bigger party.

Ocean View Cabins

Don’t like the idea of a room with no natural light? Then consider the next step up, which would be an Ocean View room.

If you’re not looking to spend Veranda prices, but want to be able to see the horizon, these are a good option – especially since you can always wander to a nearby open deck to get that fresh air that a balcony would give you.

Ocean View Grades

Standard Ocean View cabins on Celebrity Xcel offer around 200 square feet of space and come with large picture windows for natural light and sea views.

If you’re after a bit more room, the forward-facing Deluxe Ocean View cabins bump that up to 238 square feet and feature full-height glass, giving you a broader, more cinematic view of the ocean.

One of the highlights of the Edge-class design, carried over to Xcel, is the Panoramic Ocean View cabin, found mid-ship. These do away with the usual picture window and instead boast floor-to-ceiling windows, offering sweeping views across 212 square feet of space.

While the windows don’t open – so no salty sea air – the cabin feels noticeably more spacious than a standard Ocean View, and it’s a great middle-ground if you’d like something roomier without stepping up to the cost of a Veranda.

Veranda Cabins

If you’re keen on having a classic balcony with a separate outdoor area, your choices are a bit restricted on Celebrity Xcel and the rest of the Edge-class ships.

That’s because there are fewer than 100 genuine balcony cabins on board – most of the staterooms listed as “Veranda” are actually Infinite Balcony cabins, which work a little differently.

Veranda Grades

Let’s take a closer look at the different options available, as there are a few quirks worth knowing about.

Deluxe Porthole Staterooms

Here’s where things get a little bit misleading. You might expect a room with “Porthole” in the name to be a standard Ocean View cabin with a small, round window. But on Celebrity Xcel, the Deluxe Porthole Staterooms are actually veranda cabins – just with a porthole-style opening rather than a full balcony.

They’re still a good size, and the design does offer some protection from the wind, which can be a bonus. That said, the circular frame can slightly obstruct your view compared to a traditional veranda.

Sunset View Staterooms

These cabins sit right at the aft of the ship, giving you those sought-after wake views – often considered the best on board for ocean scenery.

They’re also the only Veranda staterooms on Celebrity Xcel to feature a proper, open-air balcony – no Infinite Veranda setup here, just a classic, uncovered outdoor space where you can soak up the breeze.

That old-school appeal makes them especially popular with cruisers who prefer a more traditional experience. But with only six of these cabins per deck between Decks 7 and 12, availability is tight – so they tend to get booked up fast.

Edge Staterooms with Infinite Veranda

A hallmark of the Edge-class design, these cabins make up the bulk of the Veranda category on Celebrity Xcel. Rather than a separate outdoor space, the Infinite Veranda brings the balcony indoors.

You’ll notice a defined veranda area next to the floor-to-ceiling window – but it’s integrated into the main cabin. With the push of a button, the top half of the window lowers, letting in the sea air and creating an open-air nook.

These staterooms do split opinion. Some guests love the added indoor space when the window’s closed, while others miss having a separate balcony. Still, many appreciate the versatility it offers.

“Prime” Infinite Veranda cabins are the same size as the standard ones – the only difference is their location, typically in quieter areas or spots with better views.

Concierge Class

Concierge Class cabins are essentially an upgraded version of the Infinite Veranda staterooms.

The size and layout are exactly the same – including the signature floor-to-ceiling window that turns into a veranda at the touch of a button. What makes Concierge Class different isn’t the cabin itself, but the added perks and more tailored service that come with it.

Think of it as a step up from the standard Veranda rooms, offering a few extra touches of comfort and convenience, but without the spa-centric focus of AquaClass.

You’ll enjoy some thoughtful extras and a more personalised experience – just note that it doesn’t include access to the spa or Blu, the exclusive restaurant reserved for AquaClass guests.

Some of the Concierge Class benefits include:

• A dedicated Concierge team to assist with dining, shore excursions, or special occasions
• Early embarkation and disembarkation
• A welcome bottle of sparkling wine waiting in your room
• Daily canapés delivered on request
• Priority access to booking dining, shore excursions, and spa treatments
• A thicker mattress and enhanced bedding compared to standard cabins
• Use of umbrellas and binoculars during the cruise

You’ll also be able to enjoy lunch in the Main Dining Room on embarkation day – a nice Concierge-exclusive bonus away from the more crowded areas of the ship.

AquaClass

AquaClass is designed for cruisers who want a more wellness-oriented holiday – without going all-in on the cost or space of a full suite.

Like Concierge Class, the cabins are the same size and layout as the standard Xcel Staterooms with Infinite Veranda. What sets AquaClass apart is the collection of spa-inspired benefits and the overall sense of calm it offers.

It’s a great fit if you enjoy spending time in the spa, appreciate lighter, health-conscious dining, or simply prefer a more serene, retreat-style atmosphere on board. The perks here go beyond just convenience – it’s all about encouraging rest, relaxation, and wellbeing.

You’ll get:

• Unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite – a tranquil space with heated loungers, steam rooms, and various sensory experiences
• Exclusive dining in Blu – a dedicated restaurant with a lighter, more health-conscious menu
• Upgraded in-room amenities, including a yoga mat, plush robes and slippers, and a daily supply of wellness-focused bottled water and teas
• Aromatherapy diffuser in the room (with scent options you can request)
• Priority check-in and boarding, plus a personal Spa Concierge to help with bookings

The bedding gets a noticeable upgrade too, with premium mattresses and luxury linens to help you drift off more easily. The location of these staterooms also adds to the peaceful vibe – they’re tucked away in quieter areas of the ship, near the spa and far from the busier public spaces.

AquaClass cabins are strictly limited to two guests. So if you’re travelling with a third person or a child, you’ll need to explore other room types.

Overall, AquaClass is an excellent choice if spa days and tranquil dining sound like your idea of a perfect cruise. But if you’re not particularly interested in wellness features or would rather dive into the more energetic parts of the ship, the extra cost may not be worth it for you.

The Retreat – Suite Class

If you’re looking for the most luxurious experience Celebrity Xcel has to offer – the kind where the pampering begins the moment you arrive at the terminal – then The Retreat is where you’ll want to be.

This isn’t just another cabin category. The Retreat is a ship-within-a-ship concept, offering suite guests access to exclusive spaces, top-tier perks, and the highest level of personalised service on board.

It includes all of Xcel’s suites – from the entry-level Sky Suites to the show-stopping Iconic Suites, which offer over 2,500 square feet of sheer indulgence.

Here’s what you get as a Retreat guest:

• Access to The Retreat Sundeck – a private outdoor lounge with pool, hot tub, cabanas, and a bar, exclusively for suite guests
• Luminae at The Retreat – an exclusive restaurant serving elevated cuisine, open for all meals and only available to suite guests
• The Retreat Lounge – a private indoor space with a personal concierge, complimentary drinks, gourmet snacks, and plenty of quiet seating
• A dedicated Retreat Butler – available to help with unpacking, reservations, room service (from any restaurant), and anything else you might need
• Premium drinks, premium WiFi, tips, and onboard credit – all included in the fare

The suites themselves offer all the comforts and high-end touches you’d expect – think plush king-size Cashmere™ mattresses, spacious bathrooms (many with deep soaking tubs or spa-style rainfall showers), expansive verandas, and plenty of living space, particularly in the top-tier options like the Edge Villas and Iconic Suites.

Even if you spend most of your time in your suite, you’ll still feel like you’ve had a truly premium experience. But when you do venture out, you’ll have access to Celebrity Xcel’s most exclusive areas – including private dining at Luminae, the elegant Retreat Lounge, and a beautifully appointed sun deck reserved solely for Retreat guests.

That said, this is very much a luxury-priced experience. It’s one of the finest offerings at sea – but it’s really only worth the splurge if you plan to take full advantage of everything The Retreat provides, especially the extra space, service, and serenity.

If that feels a bit over the top – or your budget leans more practical – then a well-positioned Infinite Veranda or a calming AquaClass cabin could offer just the right mix of comfort and value.

Accessible Cabins on Celebrity Xcel

Celebrity Xcel offers a solid range of accessible staterooms across multiple categories – including Inside, Ocean View, Infinite Veranda, and even some Suites.

These cabins have been thoughtfully designed with wheelchair users in mind, featuring wider doorways, roll-in showers, grab bars, ramped thresholds, and more open floor space to move about with ease.

Some even include automated doors that open with a wave of your keycard – a simple yet brilliant touch that you won’t often find on many other cruise lines. If you opt for an accessible Veranda stateroom, you’ll also enjoy step-free access to the balcony, so you can still make the most of the views and fresh sea air.

As you might expect, these cabins are limited in number and tend to be booked up quickly – so if you need one, it’s a good idea to secure it as early as possible. And if you don’t need the accessible features, it’s considerate to choose a different cabin type, ensuring these specially adapted rooms remain available for those who genuinely need them.

Cabins You Should Avoid

There aren’t really any “bad” cabins on a ship as sleek and thoughtfully designed as Celebrity Xcel. But that doesn’t mean every stateroom will be the perfect match for every traveller.

Depending on the kind of cruise experience you’re after – whether it’s peace and quiet, being close to the action, soaking up stunning views, or pure relaxation – some cabins might end up feeling like more of a compromise than you’d expected.

So, here’s a rundown of the staterooms you might want to think twice about, depending on your travel style.

1. Deck 3 Cabins – If You’re Sensitive to Noise

One of the more frequent complaints on Celebrity Xcel – as with other Edge-class ships – is noise affecting cabins located on Deck 3.

Deck 3 is the lowest level with guest staterooms, but it sits directly beneath some of the ship’s busiest public areas on Decks 4 and 5. Just above, you’ve got the theatre, The Club, the casino, shops, and several speciality dining venues.

That means a fair bit of foot traffic, background music, and general activity overhead. While most of the sound is fairly well insulated, light sleepers or anyone sensitive to noise might find it a bit harder to unwind or get an early night.

If peace and quiet is high on your wishlist, you’re better off opting for a cabin on one of the higher decks.

And there are a handful of cabins near the front of the deck that I would doubly recommend avoiding if you aren’t travelling with family.

These cabins are adjacent to the Camp at Sea kids club, and below some of the noisiest parts of Deck 4 – The Club and The Theatre.

So you’re liable to experience noise throughout the day and at night – I’d definitely steer clear of these if you can.

2. Cabins Directly Above the Theatre

6101 to 6127

Another area where noise can be an issue is the row of cabins directly above the theatre.

While Celebrity Xcel generally does a great job with soundproofing, the evening shows – complete with booming soundtracks, bass-heavy music, and dramatic effects – can occasionally be heard from the staterooms just above.

Shows typically finish by around 11pm, so if you’re someone who stays up late or plans to be out and about during that time, it probably won’t be a problem.

But if you’re travelling with young children, are a light sleeper, or just prefer a bit of peace and quiet in the evenings, it’s worth looking elsewhere – either further aft or on a higher deck where you’re less likely to hear the action from below.

3. Infinite Veranda Staterooms – If You’re Looking For a Traditional Balcony

At first glance, the Infinite Veranda staterooms seem like a smart, space-saving innovation – and for many cruisers, they absolutely are. They’re sleek, modern, and make clever use of the available square footage.

But if you’re picturing a classic outdoor balcony – somewhere to sit with a drink, feel the sea breeze, and listen to the waves – these might not quite tick all the boxes.

Rather than having a separate outside area, the Infinite Veranda brings the balcony indoors. The top half of the floor-to-ceiling window lowers at the press of a button, and folding doors create a visual divide between the “veranda” and the rest of the room. However, there’s no proper sliding door to close it off completely, and the feel isn’t quite the same as stepping outside.

If you love spending time outdoors – reading on the balcony, watching the sun dip below the horizon, or simply soaking up that fresh sea air – you might find these staterooms fall a little short.

It’s also worth noting that while the window system is usually reliable, there have been occasional reports of technical glitches – such as the windows sticking open or closed. It’s not common, but it can be a bit of a nuisance when it happens.

If you’re after a true balcony experience, you’re better off with a Sunset Veranda stateroom. These come with a traditional, open-air balcony, extra depth, and some of the best aft-facing views on the ship.

4. Staterooms Directly Below the Pool Deck

12123 to 12220

One more cabin zone to be cautious of is the stretch directly beneath the Resort Deck – specifically, the staterooms on Deck 12 in this range.

The problem isn’t constant noise throughout the day, but rather the sudden, early-morning clatter that can catch you off guard. Crew members often begin setting up sun loungers at the crack of dawn, dragging them across the deck – and that scraping, banging, and thudding can be surprisingly noticeable from below.

If you’re a light sleeper or like to enjoy a lie-in on sea days, this isn’t the most peaceful place to be.

You may also hear the occasional flurry of foot traffic from above – whether it’s flip-flops, kids running, or the odd chair being moved. It’s nothing outrageous, but when it’s directly overhead, even small sounds tend to carry.

That said, it’s only this particular section of Deck 12 that’s affected – other areas are far enough away from the main pool zone to avoid the worst of it.

If quiet mornings are important to you, consider booking a cabin a deck or two lower, where you’ll have more of a sound buffer between you and the action above.

5. The Worst Cabins for Seasickness

If you’re prone to motion sickness, where your cabin is located can make a big difference to how comfortable your cruise feels—especially on sea days when the ship is moving at full speed, or if the sea gets a bit choppy.

The areas where movement is most noticeable tend to be right at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship, particularly on higher decks.

On Celebrity Xcel, that means you may want to steer clear of staterooms at the very front or rear of Decks 11 and 12.

When the ship hits rougher seas, the forward cabins are more likely to experience pitching (that up-and-down seesaw motion), while aft cabins often feel more side-to-side swaying. Add the extra height from being on an upper deck, and the motion becomes even more pronounced.

If you’re someone who struggles with seasickness, the best cabin choice is:

• On a lower deck – Deck 6 or 7 tends to be the sweet spot
• Midship – where the movement is most stable
• Ideally with a window or balcony, so you can keep your eyes on the horizon (which really helps your balance and reduces nausea)

Choosing the right location won’t eliminate motion entirely, but it can make a world of difference in how much you feel it.

6. Small Inside Cabins

Celebrity Xcel offers two types of Inside Cabin – the standard Inside, and the slightly larger Deluxe Inside.

The standard Inside cabins are designed strictly for two people. They’re not tiny, but if you like having space to move about, you might find them a bit of a squeeze – especially once you’ve unpacked. If you’re someone who values a bit of floorspace, these probably aren’t for you.

But the real space challenge comes with the Deluxe Inside cabins that sleep up to four. Yes, they offer a bit more room, but with extra beds added in – usually in the form of pull-down bunks or sofa beds – things can start to feel very cramped, very quickly.

If you’re cruising as a group of three or four, I’d strongly recommend looking at Ocean View cabins as a starting point. The extra space and natural light make a big difference, and everyone’s likely to be much more comfortable.

7. Connecting Staterooms

Connecting staterooms are a brilliant option if you’re booking both sides. That’s exactly what they’re made for – with an internal door between the two cabins that can be unlocked, creating a shared space perfect for families, friends, or groups who want to stay close while still having their own room.

But if you’re only booking one half of a connecting pair? That’s when the downsides creep in.

The connecting door is never quite as soundproof as a standard cabin wall. That means you’re far more likely to hear your neighbours – whether it’s conversations, TVs, snoring, or early-morning alarms. And of course, they’ll hear you too.

So, unless you’re intentionally reserving both rooms, it’s usually better to steer clear of cabins with connecting doors if privacy or a peaceful night’s sleep is high on your list.

‘Bad’ Cabins You Don’t Need to Avoid

If you’re someone who enjoys studying the deck plans in detail (no judgement – same here!), you might spot a few staterooms on Celebrity Xcel that look like potential red flags. But in reality, they’re often nothing to worry about – and in some cases, they’re actually hidden gems.

1. Magic Carpet Sky Suites

These suites are so-named because their balconies overlook the Magic Carpet – that large, cantilevered platform on the side of the ship that functions as a tender platform, bar, or dining space, depending on the deck it’s operating from.

It’s understandable to have concerns: Will it block your view? Will it be noisy? What about privacy?

But here’s the reality: the Magic Carpet doesn’t move continuously, and never moves while guests are on board. When it does change position, there may be a brief bit of mechanical sound, but it’s usually quick and minimal.

You still get a lovely sea view, your privacy isn’t compromised, and it can actually be quite fascinating to watch the platform glide past from your balcony.

So despite the slightly misleading name, these suites are well worth considering if you’re browsing Sky Suite options.

2. Obstructed View Cabins Beside the Magic Carpet

The Infinite Veranda staterooms directly to either side of the Magic Carpet are often flagged as having “obstructed views” – but don’t write them off too fast.

What’s causing the obstruction? It’s simply that the Sky Suites below stick out slightly, so your view might be a little cut off in one direction. In some cabins, there’s also a support beam just beneath the window. But neither of these things fully blocks the view – they’re minor visual interruptions, not deal-breakers.

If you’re someone who won’t settle for anything less than a totally unobstructed, panoramic outlook, then fair enough – maybe skip these.

But if you’re happy with a mostly clear sea view (and a better price), these cabins are a bit of a win. The “obstruction” is so minimal that most guests hardly notice it once they’re settled in with a drink, watching the ocean roll by.

Final Word

There really aren’t any truly bad cabins on Celebrity Xcel – she’s a sleek, brand-new ship with some of the most forward-thinking stateroom designs at sea.

But depending on your personal preferences – whether you prioritise peace and quiet, a classic balcony, or how well you handle motion – some cabins will definitely suit you better than others.

A lot of the advice in this guide comes from hours of trawling through cruise forums, Facebook groups, and reviews of sister ships that are almost identical in layout to Celebrity Xcel.

And if you’re still unsure about a particular cabin, those communities are goldmines. Chances are, someone out there has stayed in the exact room you’re eyeing on another ship – and cruise fans are usually more than happy to share honest tips (and even room photos).

One final tip before you book: spend a few minutes studying the Celebrity Xcel deck plans. It’s a small effort that can go a long way. Checking what’s directly above, below, and around your chosen cabin could be the difference between a perfectly peaceful night – and being kept awake by chair-scraping or late-night footsteps from the deck above.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me