Post-covid cruising is back, and better than ever, with world-class adventures aboard luxurious vessels at the top of many discerning travelers’ lists. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), about 35.7 million passengers are expected to cruise in 2024, up about 6% total from 2019.
While buffet dining and conga lines remain a mainstay aboard bargain boats, upscale brands, such as Celebrity, stand apart from the rest by emphasizing refined experiences, elevated service and gourmet dining.
Such is the case with Celebrity’s Ascent, an Edge Class ship, which features immersive dinners, expanded food and drink menus, whiskey tasting, and even a plant-based multi-course dinner highlighting global cuisine.
“The memories we make with family and friends while sharing food and drink has long been one of the most memorable parts of travel, and with Celebrity Ascent we sought every opportunity to make these experiences richer and even more exciting for our guests,” explains Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises’ President. “Onboard Ascent there is something to delight every guest, whether it is the fine dining connoisseur with a palate for the world’s best wines, the couple looking for an intimate and romantic night out, the family that desires to bond with their kids over a fun and high-energy experience, or the wellness-minded traveler desiring more plant-based, healthy options.”
A NEW LE VOYAGE: CHEF DANIEL BOULUD’S EXCLUSIVE RESTAURANTS AT SEA
World-renowned chef, Daniel Boulud, Celebrity’s Global Culinary Ambassador, proudly brings his highly acclaimed restaurant concept at sea to Celebrity Ascent with the second installment of the highly-rated fine dining venue, Le Voyage. Featuring an all-new design that creates a stunning scene and chic ambiance, the space is tastefully decorated in captivating neutrals, with plush banquet seating, and gold tones accented throughout. Guests experience a global menu crafted by Chef Boulud himself, which offers dishes inspired by his travels and favorite places around the world.
For the ultimate culinary indulgence, reserve the chef’s table — a private, 6-seat space that treats diners to a multi-course tasting dinner, complete with exceptional wine pairings. And, in true Boulud fashion, diners are treated to the chef’s signature homemade madeleines at the end of each meal.
EXPLORE THE FUTURE OF FINE DINING WITH PLANT-BASED FLAVORS
The most captivating venue onboard Edge Series ships, Eden, is a window to the world, featuring three levels of sensory discovery, completely wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows. The multi-use space offers a casual lunch café, a cocktail bar, an entertainment space, an outdoor terrace, and a signature restaurant — all of which come alive at night with a fusion of music, libations, and performances unlike anything else at sea. One of the highlights of Eden is its signature restaurant, offering a culinary journey rooted in fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Eden’s new, seven-course, plant-based tasting menu features ingredients that have been sourced from their original places of origin and then presented in their most natural state. Menu highlights include Golden Beet-Tomato Ceviche, Ajoblanco Panna Cotta, Roasted and Glazed Celeriac Steak, and Dry Rose Petals Masala Curry. Guests are invited to enjoy these earthy delights as a tasting menu, or a la carte, and may also request organic and vegan wine pairings.
RAISING THE BAR
Celebrity is known for its extensive spirits tasting program, which currently includes partnerships with Jack Daniel’s and Macallan. On Celebrity Ascent, the brand goes even further to delight even the most experienced cocktail connoisseur through a new, exclusive partnership with WhistlePig Whiskey. At Craft Social, guests can enjoy a Special Bespoke Barrel Aged 12 Years and a Special Single Barrel Aged 10 Years, either a la carte or as part of a tasting flight that also features WhistlePig PiggyBack 100 Proof Bourbon (Aged 6 Years), WhistlePig 10, and WhistlePig 12.
With more than 100 Wine Spectator awards in over a decade, and the only cruise line to ever receive the coveted “Best Of” Award of Excellence, no other cruise brand entices wine lovers more. Three of Celebrity Ascent’s venues were recognized at the 2023 Wine Spectator Awards, with Le Voyage and Tuscan being recipients of the “Best Of” Award of Excellence, and Fine Cut becoming an Award of Excellence winner. Oenophiles will delight in extensive wine lists, as well as Ascent’s expert certified sommeliers and signature wine-tasting seminars.
FLAIR BARTENDER SHOWS AT THE MARTINI BAR
At the heart of each Edge Series ship is The Grand Plaza, with a signature wrap-around Martini Bar that sits beneath The Chandelier, a breathtaking light fixture-meets-art installation that comes alive each night during the iconic Flair Bartender Show — a high-energy act during which mixologists assemble a tower of martinis while dancing to choreography. In addition to the show, the Martini Bar offers a comprehensive menu, including classic martinis, fruit-infused creations, and indulgent dessert martinis.
With 32 restaurants and bars on board, including impressive gourmet experiences, Celebrity Ascent is the ultimate choice for foodies looking to set sail soon.