• New Godmother: World-renowned Brazilian chef Janaína Torres, the World’s Best Female Chef of 2024, will be the Godmother for the new Celebrity Xcel.
• Shared Culinary Vision: The partnership highlights a mutual commitment to celebrating global culture through high-quality, authentic, and sustainable culinary experiences.
• Official Naming Ceremony: Chef Torres will officially christen the Celebrity Xcel in a formal ceremony on November 16, 2025.
• Inaugural Sailings: The ship begins its first season in November from Fort Lauderdale with Caribbean itineraries, followed by a European season in Summer 2026.

Celebrity Cruises has announced an exciting and meaningful new partnership, naming the celebrated Brazilian chef Janaína Torres as the Godmother of its newest ship, the Celebrity Xcel. Chef Torres, who was recently honored as the World’s Best Female Chef in 2024, is a perfect choice, as she and the cruise line share a deep passion for celebrating global cultures through elevated and authentic culinary experiences.

This wonderful collaboration is built on a foundation of shared values. Both Chef Torres and Celebrity Cruises are committed to sourcing local and sustainable produce, honoring authentic recipes, and delivering the highest standards of hospitality. As the owner of the award-winning restaurant A Casa do Porco in São Paulo, Chef Torres is a leading champion of Brazilian and Latin American cuisine, making her an inspiring figure to guide the new ship.

The partnership aligns beautifully with the ship’s focus on destination-inspired dining. The Celebrity Xcel will feature innovative venues like The Bazaar, designed to immerse guests in local food and culture. As Godmother, a cherished maritime tradition, Chef Torres will officially christen the ship in a naming ceremony on November 16, ushering in good fortune for all who sail on her. The ship will then embark on its inaugural season with exciting itineraries in the Caribbean and Europe.