Most-awarded cruise line wine program unlocks new level
Cruise lines competing for the premium traveler's vacation dollars have learned that a serious wine and spirits program can be a major differentiator - even one that leads a discerning traveler to choose a cruise over a high-end resort stay.
From robust wine lists to creative cocktails and wellness-focused drinks, sophisticated beverage programs are quietly becoming one of the most effective tools in the premium cruise line arsenal to keep vacationers booking cruises and spending more on board.
For wine lovers, the chance to pair top-tier wines with elevated meals, ocean views, and a convenient way to explore coastal wine regions makes cruising on a premium cruise line an appealing, modern alternative to a traditional land-based wine tour.
And when it comes to cruise lines for wine, one premium cruise line continues to bolster its reputation as a top choice.
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Celebrity Cruises earns 25 Wine Spectator Awards for 2026
Celebrity Cruises - a cruise line that already holds the title of most-awarded wine program at sea - just elevated its standing further with its 2026 Wine Spectator Awards wins. With 25 honors in 2026, a new record for the cruise line, Celebrity Cruises now boasts 165 Wine Spectator Awards over 14 consecutive years.
Wine Spectator's awards recognize restaurants on land and at sea for thoughtful wine lists that feature diverse and compelling selections appropriate to their cuisine.
The line's 2026 wins include 17 distinguished "Best of Award of Excellence" accolades as well as eight "Award of Excellence" recognitions. "Award of Excellence" honors include nods for two new Celebrity Cruises restaurants: the brand-new Trattoria Rossa on Celebrity Solstice and Mosaic on Celebrity Xcel.
Related: Celebrity Cruises Martini Bar explained
Trattoria Rossa, a specialty restaurant serving Roman and Southern Italian cuisine, debuted in March 2026 on the revitalized Celebrity Solstice. Mosaic is a popular specialty restaurant on Celebrity's newest flagship, Celebrity Xcel, which serves creative, destination-inspired dishes.
But you don't have to sail on a new or reimagined Celebrity ship, or even eat in a specialty restaurant to enjoy a refined meal paired with an award-winning wine list on a Celebrity cruise. Restaurants on board ships across Celebrity's entire ocean fleet received Wine Spectator accolades, including various main dining rooms that earned "Best Of" honors.
First five-star restaurant at sea receives Wine Spectator "Best Of" award
"Best Of" awards also went to Le Voyage, a standout specialty restaurant featured on Celebrity Xcel, Ascent, and Beyond. A culinary journey created by renowned chef Daniel Boulud, Celebrity's global culinary ambassador, Le Voyage on Celebrity Xcel made history earlier in 2026 when it was honored as the first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rated restaurant at sea.
From Le Voyage and Celebrity's celebrated wine collection to elevated buffet and casual café offerings, Celebrity is setting new standards for cruise dining.
Related: Celebrity Cruises elevates cruise experiences in Europe, Alaska
"Celebrity Cruises constantly redefines the possibilities of food and beverage at sea, and this industry-leading recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence," said Celebrity Cruises' Vice President of Food and Beverage Operations Jan Sorensen. "With up to 32 food and beverage venues on board, we offer something for every guest's preference, while providing authentic, globally inspired experiences like no other."
Whether you're new to wine or looking to expand your palate, Celebrity's approachable wine program invites everyone to dive into the world of wine. Every Celebrity Cruises restaurant features a trained sommelier who can help guide guests through the more than 500 wine selections on board. Sailings also offer passengers the chance to participate in onboard Food and Wine Pairing Workshops and World Wine Tour tastings that highlight wine regions and varietal technicalities.
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