If you’ve ever disembarked a cruise and wished you could linger a little longer – sipping coffee by the pool or grabbing one last meal with a view – you’re not alone. That’s exactly the kind of end-of-cruise blues that Celebrity Cruises aims to ease with its “Extend Your Stay” program.
While Royal Caribbean introduced a similar concept called “Stay Awhile” on its European sailings, Celebrity Cruises has elevated the idea for its guests, especially those who appreciate a more relaxed and luxurious wind-down.
You can read more about the Royal Caribbean ‘Stay Awhile’ program in this blog post.
Here’s everything you need to know about Celebrity’s Extend Your Stay program – and how it compares.
What is “Extend Your Stay”?
Celebrity Cruises’ Extend Your Stay program allows guests to spend extra time onboard after the cruise has officially ended. Rather than being ushered off the ship early in the morning, this program lets you slow down and soak in your final hours at sea.
You’ll still disembark the ship that day, but later than most guests – and with full access to public spaces like lounges, the Oceanview Café, and the pool deck.
What’s Included?
Depending on your stateroom class and the package you choose, the program includes:
- Late disembarkation: Stay onboard until just 90 minutes before the ship departs again.
- Public area access: Enjoy the café, bars, pool deck, lounges, and more.
- Luggage storage: Your bags will be safely handled while you unwind.
- Premium Wi-Fi: Stay connected right up until you leave.
- Beverages: Zero Proof drink packages included (with alcoholic options for some guests).
- Spa access: Optional, available at additional cost.
- Dedicated lunch areas: Select venues remain open for Extend Your Stay guests.
For Retreat guests (Celebrity’s premium suite class), there’s an upgraded experience available that includes alcoholic drinks, Retreat Lounge and Sundeck access, and a special lunch service.
Where Is It Offered?
Extend Your Stay is only available on select European turnaround ports – that is, ports where one cruise ends and another begins the same day.
Current eligible ports include:
- Barcelona, Spain
- Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
- Athens (Piraeus), Greece
- Venice (Ravenna), Italy
At some ports, such as Ravenna, Extend Your Stay may also include transfers to Venice or the airport, making it especially attractive for those with evening flights.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary by port and package type:
| Guest Type | Price Range (USD) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Guests | ~$69 | Non-alcoholic drinks, public access, Wi-Fi |
| Retreat Guests | ~$99 | Includes alcoholic drinks, upgraded food & lounges |
| With Transfers | $119–$149 | Available at some ports (e.g., Ravenna) |
Guests in Celebrity’s loyalty program may receive discounts or complimentary access depending on tier.
How Does it Compare to Royal Caribbean’s “Stay Awhile”?
Royal Caribbean’s Stay Awhile program is also only available on select European cruises, and similarly allows passengers to enjoy public spaces post-disembarkation for a small fee.
However, Celebrity’s version adds more luxury touches, such as the included drinks packages, retreat-exclusive perks, and smoother integration with ground transfers in certain ports. It’s clearly designed for guests who want their last cruise day to feel like part of the holiday – not a rushed goodbye.
Is Extend Your Stay Worth It?
If you have a late flight, want to avoid the airport rush, or just aren’t ready to say goodbye to ship life, Extend Your Stay is a solid upgrade. You’ll enjoy a relaxed morning, proper lunch, access to your favourite spaces, and no pressure to hover with your bags at the terminal.
For Retreat guests especially, it’s a seamless way to maintain the luxury cruise vibe right up until you’re ready to go.
It’s important to note that Extend Your Stay is not offered on Caribbean or U.S. sailings, and must be booked in advance via Cruise Planner or while onboard – usually at least 48 hours before the end of your cruise.
So if you’re booking a Celebrity sailing in Europe, it’s worth checking if your itinerary qualifies. One extra cruise day – even just a few hours – might be the cherry on top of your holiday.
