Home » CRUISE NEWS » Greece Joins Italy, Spain, Morocco and Turkey for an Unparalleled Mediterranean Journey on Celebrity Xcel, Featuring Four Spectacular Festivals Celebrating the Best of Local Traditions
Published on
January 16, 2026
This summer, Celebrity Xcel is taking Mediterranean cruising to a whole new level by introducing four spectacular festivals that bring the vibrant cultures of Greece, Italy, Spain, Morocco and Turkey directly onboard. With each destination offering its own unique traditions, flavors, and history, guests will experience the essence of the Mediterranean like never before. From the infectious energy of Greek celebrations to the romantic allure of Italy, the fiery passion of Spain, and the exotic aromas of Turkey, Celebrity Xcel blends the best of these iconic countries into a seamless journey of cultural immersion. These exclusive festivals will elevate every moment of your cruise, transforming each day at sea into an unforgettable exploration of the Mediterranean’s rich heritage.
The Bazaar, the ship’s flagship cultural concept, has already set the standard for cultural exploration since its debut in November. Now, Celebrity Xcel is set to push the boundaries even further, offering guests a deeper connection with the Mediterranean through four distinctive festivals that highlight the region’s most beloved traditions. These onboard experiences will seamlessly blend with port stops to create an authentic, multi-sensory voyage that celebrates Mediterranean culture in vibrant new ways.
Immerse Yourself in Mediterranean Wonders
Aboard the Celebrity Xcel, the four new festivals promise a total immersion into Mediterranean life, offering guests a chance to dive into the local culture, music, food, and festivities like never before. Here’s a sneak peek at these thrilling new experiences:
Opa Festival: A Celebration of Greek Joy and Tradition
Step into the heart of Greece with the Opa Festival, where the spirit of celebration fills the air. Known for its contagious joy, the festival will offer guests the chance to enjoy Greece’s iconic food and lively music, including the famous Greek dance and plate-smashing traditions. Taste the rich flavors of souvlaki, baklava, and tzatziki, while experiencing the energy of live Greek performances. The Opa Festival will transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Santorini and Athens, giving you a taste of the country’s timeless charm and vibrancy.
La Dolce Vita Festival: Indulge in the Romance of Italy
For lovers of all things Italian, the La Dolce Vita Festival offers a chance to indulge in Italy’s most celebrated flavors, beauty, and elegance. Guests will enjoy classic Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, and limoncello, while experiencing the romance of Venice, Florence, and Rome. With an emphasis on Italy’s rich culinary heritage, the festival will immerse guests in Italy’s unparalleled charm and sophistication. A true tribute to the dolce vita lifestyle, this festival offers the perfect Italian escape on the high seas.
Salud Festival: Experience Spain’s Passion and Rhythms
Next, the Salud Festival will bring the warmth and passion of Spain onboard. This festival captures the country’s vibrant energy through flamenco performances, live music, and traditional Spanish dishes like paella and tapas. Guests will experience the fiery spirit of Spain through dancing matadors, flamenco dancers, and regional specialties that showcase Spain’s bold culinary traditions. The Salud Festival is a dynamic celebration of Spain’s lively culture that will leave guests feeling the pulse of this passionate nation.
Silk & Spice Festival: A Sensory Adventure Through Morocco and Turkey
For those looking to experience something truly exotic, the Silk & Spice Festival takes guests on a sensory journey through the rich cultures of Morocco and Turkey. Guests will indulge in aromatic spices, traditional Moroccan dishes, and Turkish delicacies while immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of these vibrant destinations. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the enchanting landscapes of Istanbul, the festival captures the essence of these two fascinating regions with mesmerizing music, dance, and culinary exploration.
Culinary Excellence and Immersive Dining Experiences
Beyond these exceptional festivals, Celebrity Xcel will offer guests a series of elevated dining experiences inspired by Mediterranean cities like Naples, Mykonos, and Lisbon. Mosaic, the ship’s open kitchen concept, will feature reimagined Mediterranean dishes that bring the region’s finest flavors directly to the table. Each meal will be a journey through the Mediterranean’s rich culinary heritage, offering a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and authentic techniques.
For those who want to get hands-on, Chef’s Studio at Mosaic will host exclusive cooking classes, allowing guests to learn how to prepare Mediterranean staples like Italian pizza or Spanish paella. These culinary workshops provide a unique way for guests to engage with the flavors of the Mediterranean and take home new skills to recreate at home.
Spice: Casual Dining, Mediterranean Style
For a more laid-back dining experience, Spice will offer a selection of Mediterranean-inspired bites throughout the day. From fresh salads to savory pastries, this casual concept is perfect for guests looking to enjoy light snacks while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline.
Destination Immersion Like Never Before
Celebrity Xcel’s four new festivals represent a new era of destination immersion at sea. By blending the rich traditions of the Mediterranean with the comfort and luxury of cruising, Celebrity Cruises is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of the world’s most beloved destinations in a completely new way.
As the Mediterranean cruise season approaches, Celebrity Xcel promises to provide a voyage that is more than just a trip—it’s an unforgettable exploration of culture, food, and entertainment. Whether you’re docked in port or cruising the open sea, these festivals will redefine the way you experience the Mediterranean.
Dining and Cooking