Celebrity Apex has sailed out of Athens to begin its maiden voyage and first summer season in the Aegean.

Celebrity Cruises had originally planned to introduce its newest ship in late March, 2020.

Apex is the second ship in the brand’s new Edge Series and will offer a seven-night cruise in Aegean and Mediterranean.

Lisa Lutoff, Celebrity Cruises’ president and chief executive, said: “After all this time, what a dream come true for everyone onboard this exquisite ship in one of the world’s most breath-taking regions.

“Her sail-away today is a meaningful moment for our guests, our crew and our company. I think we are all having ‘pinch me’ moments.”

The seven-day Greek Islands and Cyprus itinerary will visit Rhodes, Mykonos, Santorini and Limassol in Cyprus.

Celebrity Cruises was founded in 1988 by the Chandris family of Greece, and the company later became a part of the Royal Caribbean Group.

About 70% of marine officers across the fleet come from Greece including the captain of Celebrity Apex, Dimitrios Kafetzis.

He said: “Not only do I return to sea, but I do so in my home country and with an incredible crew. I was born and raised right here in Piraeus, less than a mile from our Athens homeport.

“It is truly an honour to captain the newest Celebrity flagship and to welcome our first guests back onboard.”

Celebrity Apex sails with a vaccinated crew and at least 95% vaccinated guests.