The next generation of cruise ships moved from concept to construction earlier, as the first piece of steel was cut at the STX France shipyard for Celebrity Cruises’ newest, and boldest, ship.

The ship will be called Celebrity Edge, befitting the many daring design advances and innovations of Celebrity Cruises’ first new ship class since 2008.

The modern luxury cruise line is also announcing the name of Edge’s sister ship, Celebrity Beyond, signalling the incredible experience guests can expect on-board Celebrity Edge and the entire Edge Class, changing the way travellers see the world.

“Edge Class is destined to be a trailblazer in modern luxury travel,” said Richard Fain, chairman, Royal Caribbean Cruises.

“The new ships will be on the cutting edge of innovation and the leading edge of design, so the ship names are spot on and offer a sense of how Celebrity Cruises is looking into the future.”

The company expects delivery of Celebrity Edge in autumn 2018.

Celebrity Beyond is scheduled for delivery in spring 2020, the third and fourth in autumn 2021 and autumn 2022, respectively.

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity Cruises’ president, said: “We set the bar high for the architects and designers on Edge class, and we were rewarded with a stunning design.

“Cutting the ship’s first piece of steel is the traditional first step in the shipbuilding process, and I’m excited to see our dreams turn into reality over the next 24 months.”

She added: “We are excited to reveal more details soon, and travellers, trade partners and enthusiasts alike will not be disappointed — this ship is going to be amazing.”