Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Infinity has been stuck in the port of Kusadasi, Turkey, for days, but the approximately 999 crew members onboard are making sure the fun isn’t stopping.
The Millennium-class cruise ship suffered a small electrical fire and power outage on Monday, July 7, 2025, that forced the vessel to remain in port until repairs could be completed.
While it’s understandably disappointing that cruisers would no longer get to visit the other ports of call (Mykonos, Kavala, and Thessaloniki in Greece), the cruise line wants guests to take advantage of their extra time in Kusadasi.
The shore excursions team has been planning free excursions that cruisers were able to book on the Celebrity Cruises App on a first-come, first-served basis.
This is, of course, no easy feat or inexpensive when planning for large groups of people at the last minute, and an estimated 2,381 guests are onboard.
But it was a gesture that has been appreciated by guests, and seven of those complimentary tours ventured out into Kusadasi on July 10, 2025.
“A total of seven excursions were arranged and fully paid for by the excursions team,” a current passenger updated.
“An effort many see as Celebrity’s continued commitment to keeping guests entertained, engaged, and active during this unfortunate extended stay.”
The shore excursions were not specified, but the cruise line generally offers a variety of highlight tours of Ephesus, visits to the House of Virgin Mary, culinary experiences, and excursions dedicated to art and craft-making.
Of course, guests could also explore on their own or take advantage of the onboard amenities. But no matter how they spend their days, guests are making the most of their vacation.
“Drinks are still available, staterooms are clean, food is aplenty, and yes, toilets are still flushing,” the current guest quipped.
The “toilets” note was likely a nod to the infamous “poop cruise” onboard Carnival Triumph, which Netflix just brought back into the spotlight with a new documentary.
Repairs Going Smoothly, But Some Can’t Wait
As much as guests have managed to enjoy their extended visit to Kusadasi, they certainly would also like to get home eventually.
Thankfully, the current passenger also shared an update from the captain that suggests repairs are going well and the 90,940-gross ton ship will be ready for her rescheduled departure, which was set for Friday, July 11, 2025, at 3 p.m. local time.
“Our team is continuing to work hard and everything is moving in the right direction. We have a positive outlook at this time, and we are on time for a departure on Friday,” the Captain announced at around 9 a.m. on July 10.
“Our incredible crew have been doing their best to make your time as comfortable as possible… I want to thank you, our wonderful guests, for your patience, understanding, and good spirit,” he continued.
The 2001-launched ship is expected to return to Athens, Greece, on July 12 as planned for disembarkation and to set sail on a new 7-night sailing to Turkey and Greece.
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Of course, not everyone was willing to wait for Celebrity Infinity to take them back to Athens.
The updating cruiser said that around 256 guests (or about 10% of the current capacity) have chosen to disembark early by the night of July 10.
Those who disembarked had decided to make their own way to the missed cruise ports or ensure they made it to Athens timely for their flights home.
“Only 10% have chosen to leave, IMO speaks volumes about the trust many guests still have that Celebrity will make things right and get us home on time,” said the guest.
“It’s worth noting that Celebrity has covered many of the associated costs for those choosing to leave early, including visa fees where appropriate. A gesture that should not go unmentioned by guests,” they continued.
In addition to paying for excursions and travel fees, Celebrity Cruises has also compensated guests with a 50% future cruise credit on any of the brand’s sailings that are departing in the next year.
