Captain Kyriakos “Captain Kirk” Matragkas to Helm Celebrity Xcel
Celebrity Cruises has officially revealed the captain of its most visionary Edge Series ship yet, Celebrity Xcel: Captain Kyriakos Matragkas, affectionately known across the fleet as “Captain Kirk.”
The announcement follows a week of social media speculation, with fans eagerly guessing who would be chosen to command the billion-dollar vessel. Captain Kirk, a familiar and respected face within the Celebrity family, now takes center stage as the leader of this next-generation ship.
Born in the historic port city of Piraeus, Greece, Captain Kirk’s maritime heritage began early, learning the ropes alongside his father before attending the renowned marine academy in Hydra. He joined Celebrity Cruises in 2000 as part of the launch crew for Celebrity Millennium and has since become a beloved fixture across the fleet.
Known not only for his expertise but for his magnetic personality and modern explorer spirit, Captain Kirk embodies the innovative and adventurous ethos of Celebrity Xcel. Outside the bridge, he’s a snowboarder, guitarist, drummer, and avid reader—bringing a unique energy to his leadership.
Celebrity Xcel is the latest evolution in the Edge Series, promising bold design and guest experiences. With Captain Kirk at the helm, Celebrity signals an exciting new era in luxury cruising.
