When you're planning a Christmas cruise on one of Celebrity Cruises' elegant ships, it's natural to wonder when the holiday magic will begin to sparkle around you. Known for their sophisticated take on festive elegance, Celebrity Cruises transforms its vessels into winter wonderlands, perfect for holiday celebrations.
The Onset of the Holiday Spirit
Typically, Celebrity Cruises starts adorning its fleet with holiday decorations in late November, often aligning with the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States. This approach not only caters to those who wish to celebrate both holidays onboard but also ensures that the festive ambiance is in place as December begins:
- Pre-Thanksgiving Decoration: Cruise lines are well aware of the need to be ready for the influx of holiday travelers. Thus, decorations might start appearing a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving.
- Post-Thanksgiving: Post-Thanksgiving, you’ll find the holiday decorations in full swing, with twinkling lights, festive wreaths, and garlands beginning to emerge across the ships.
The Week of Thanksgiving
By the week of Thanksgiving, the atmosphere aboard Celebrity Cruises ships becomes truly festive. Here’s what you can expect:
| Day of the Week | Decorations and Activities |
|---|---|
| Monday - Wednesday |
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| Thanksgiving Day |
|
| Friday - Sunday |
|
⛄ Note: Individual ships' decor might vary slightly, so check with your cruise before departure to ensure your holiday expectations are met.
From December to New Year’s
Once the festive season is in full swing, Celebrity Cruises pulls out all the stops:
- Christmas Eve: Special holiday menus, carol singing, and often a guest choir or live band.
- Christmas Day: Santa Claus visits, gift exchanges, and festive meals with special entertainment.
- New Year’s Eve: Countdown parties, elaborate dinners, fireworks (on select ships), and celebrations to welcome the New Year.
Other Holiday Events
Beyond the main holiday dates, Celebrity Cruises also hosts:
- Holiday craft fairs: A chance to purchase unique holiday gifts made by local artisans or the crew.
- Santa’s Visit: Santa often makes multiple appearances during December, including photo ops for passengers.
- Children’s Holiday Camps: Tailored activities for younger cruisers to keep the festive spirit alive for all ages.
🎄 Note: Many holiday events are timed to create the most festive experience, so check the daily program to participate in your favorites.
As you glide through the water, surrounded by the elegance and joy of the holiday season, you'll find that the magic of Christmas at sea with Celebrity Cruises begins as soon as the season does. From Thanksgiving onward, you'll be wrapped in holiday enchantment, with activities and decor that heighten the festive mood as the days count down to Christmas and beyond. The spirit of the season permeates every corner of the ship, making every moment aboard feel like a celebration. This meticulous planning ensures a smooth transition into the holiday season, offering a blend of luxury, entertainment, and the joys of Christmas on the high seas.
When do the holiday decorations come down on a Celebrity Cruises Christmas cruise?
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The holiday decorations on Celebrity Cruises usually stay up until the first or second week of January, after the New Year celebrations. Individual ships might have slight variations, but you can expect a festive atmosphere until well after Christmas.
Can you celebrate Thanksgiving on a Celebrity Cruises ship?
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Yes, you can celebrate Thanksgiving on a Celebrity Cruises ship. The cruise line often offers special Thanksgiving dinners and events to mark the occasion, especially if your cruise departs around that time.
Are there any religious services held during the holidays?
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Yes, Celebrity Cruises typically provides religious services, especially during significant holidays like Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, catering to various faiths to ensure all guests feel included in the festivities.
