Celebrity Cruises has cut the first piece of steel for its newest ship during a ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard (formerly STX France).

The Celebrity Apex, which was originally called Celebrity Beyond, is the second in the cruise line’s Edge series of ships. It will make its debut in spring 2020.

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, president and CEO, Celebrity Cruises, said: “Welcoming Celebrity Apex into our family with the leadership team was a very special moment, especially when we all signed the ship silhouette cut from the first piece of steel.

“We are so grateful for our partnership with Chantiers de l’Atlantique and are thrilled to work on another very special ship together.

“The success and momentum for Celebrity Edge has been incredible, and with Celebrity Apex we will yet again show how we are taking our brand to the next level. We are offering our guests the best way to experience the world in modern luxury style.”

Meanwhile, Laurent Castaing, general manager at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, said: “We are proud to celebrate the launch of another incredible Edge-class ship with Celebrity Cruises.

“The brand is known for many industry firsts, so it’s fitting that Celebrity Apex is the first to participate in a steel cutting ceremony under our new name, Chantiers de l’Atlantique.”

The third and fourth Edge-class ships are expected to arrive in 2021 and 2022.