Officials Celebrate Celebrity Edge's Keel Laying at STX France

This week, the ceremonial keel laying took place for the new Celebrity Edge in Saint-Nazaire, France -- setting the foundation for the ship's innovative new structure. 

An 875-ton block was lifted in the air and a lucky coin was placed in the dock before the block was lowered into position. With the solid foundation in place, the building blocks can be joined together to create the new class of ship.

Officials from both Celebrity Cruises and STX France were at the event to celebrate the next stage of the ship's evolution.

Attribution/Copyrights
Photo by STX France - Brian Bilger

Shown immediately above, Harri Kulovaara, executive vice president, new build and innovation, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. and Laurent Castaing, general manager, STX France, observe as the humongous block for Celebrity Edge is lowered.

The innovative Celebrity Edge, the premium line's new class of vessel, will home port at Port Everglades, FL, with the first cruise set for December 16, 2018. It will operate both eastern and western Caribbean itineraries. 

The new ship will have many cutting edge features, not the least of which is the Magic Carpet, the world's first cantilevered floating platform. Located off the side of the large cruise ship, it will tower 13 stories above sea level and will feature breathtaking views, a full bar, and space for live music performances.

The new ship design also features Edge Infinity with Veranda staterooms that go right to the water's edge with the touch of a button.

Celebrity Edge will be joined by three sister ships in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

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