Celebrity Cruises is getting ready to breathe new life into one of its most beloved classes of ships. Beginning with Celebrity Solstice in 2026, the cruise line is investing more than $250 million to modernize and reimagine its entire Solstice Series fleet. From redesigned accommodations and new dining concepts to fresh entertainment spaces and enhanced outdoor venues, these updates aim to take the Solstice Class to the next level.
The transformation begins with the first ship in the class, Celebrity Solstice, which is scheduled to debut her new look in March 2026, with cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, Fiji, and Southeast Asia.
History of the Solstice Class
The Solstice Class debuted in 2008 with the launch of Celebrity Solstice. Designed to offer a more upscale, modern cruise experience, the Solstice Class ships introduced larger staterooms, a focus on fine dining, and unique features like the Lawn Club—a half acre of real grass on the top deck. Built by the renowned Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, the Solstice Class ultimately included five ships: Solstice (2008), Equinox (2009), Eclipse (2010), Silhouette (2011), and Reflection (2012), each slightly larger and with tweaks from the last.
Celebrity Reflection, the final ship in the series, featured the most enhancements, such as additional suites and a third specialty restaurant. The Solstice Class also served as a blueprint for Celebrity’s future vessels, influencing the design of the more recent Edge Class ships. Even more than a decade after their introduction, the Solstice ships remain a favorite within Celebrity’s fleet—so much so that the cruise line is now investing heavily to modernize them.
All-New Spaces to Discover
Among the highlights of the refurbishment are several new venues to onboard entertainment and leisure.
- Boulevard Lounge will offer a cabaret-style setting with entertainment throughout the day—from interactive games and trivia to evening performances like dueling pianos and candlelit concerts.
- Just steps away, the Boulevard Bar will serve as a pre- or post-show destination for craft cocktails.
- Celebrity Barcade blends a modern sports bar with retro-inspired fun. Guests can enjoy sporting events while playing darts, billiards, or nostalgic board games.
New Dining Options
The food is always an integral part of any cruise, and Celebrity is introducing new dining venues:
- Trattoria Rossa is designed to feel like an Italian escape, complete with tableside presentations and freshly made pasta served in an intimate setting.
- The Fine Cut Steakhouse, already a favorite on the Edge Class ships, will offer an elegant dining experience with premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and top-notch service.
Enhancements All The Way Up Top
The ship’s top deck is also being reimagined to make the most of its ocean views and outdoor spaces.
- Sunset Park, a half-acre open-air retreat, will provide a relaxed atmosphere for lawn games, live music, alfresco dining, and cocktails.
- Private cabanas will be available, offering shaded comfort and attentive service—ideal for a day at sea.
- The popular Sunset Bar is being expanded to give guests even more opportunities to enjoy drinks with a view.
Updates to The Retreat
Guests staying in The Retreat, Celebrity’s suite experience, will find refreshed accommodations and upgraded amenities across the board.
- Suites are being reimagined for greater comfort and style.
- An all-new Retreat Sundeck will offer private outdoor space with shaded seating, a spacious hot tub, and sweeping views.
- The Retreat Lounge is also being redesigned as a space to relax, enjoy light bites, and socialize in comfort.
Upgraded Accommodations for All
Every stateroom is receiving attention as part of the renovation and new categories are being introduced to provide even more options for guests.
- AquaClass Staterooms will feature wellness-focused enhancements such as spa-inspired showers, aromatherapy options, yoga mats, and pillow menus. Guests will also receive complimentary access to the Relaxation Lounge at The Spa.
- Four new stateroom types—Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suite, Deluxe Panoramic Oceanview Suite, Panoramic Ocean View Suite, and Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View—will be available for booking starting mid-June.
Additional Venue Refreshes
In addition to these headline upgrades, several popular onboard venues are receiving design refreshes, including:
- Café Al Bacio
- Cellar Masters
- World Class Bar
- Martini Bar
- Pool Bar and Passport Bar
- Blu (exclusive to AquaClass)
- Luminae (exclusive to The Retreat)
- The Fitness Center
- Camp at Sea for younger guests
Cruisers looking for a fresh yet familiar experience should keep an eye out as dates are announced for when the other ships in the Solstice Class will receive their updates, which shouldn’t be much longer after Celebrity Solstice makes her big reveal in March 2026.