New ship Celebrity Beyond has been named in a ceremony in Florida before embarking on its first season of Caribbean sailings.
The third Celebrity Cruises’ Edge-class vessel will be running rotating western and eastern Caribbean itineraries visiting destinations such as Grand Cayman and Puerta Plata in the Dominican Republic from Fort Lauderdale.
US Olympic gold medal winning gymnast Simone Biles acted as godmother of the ship at an event attended by 2,500 guests and media, including a performance by singer Leona Lewis.
Jason Liberty, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of Celebrity Cruises, said: “This ship’s beauty, power, and resilience sets the standard by which all others will be measured.
“Simone’s determination, progressive nature, empowered attitude, and grace in the face of challenges make her such an inspiration to so many around the world.
“All of these attributes are why Simone Biles is perfectly suited to watch over Celebrity Beyond’s journey.”
The line’s president and chief executive Lisa Lutoff-Perlo added:“I’ve been waiting for this day to arrive for a long time and I am beyond excited to be able to share her with our guests.
“She is the gold standard by which other ships are built and embodies the meaning of relaxed luxury.
“She is full of wonder and excitement and our guests will undoubtedly feel reconnected to the world around them as they visit new destinations and immerse themselves in culinary experiences and wellness amenities not found anywhere else at sea.”