The ship, which is due to make its debut in early 2023, is being built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire. It will be Celebrity’s fourth Edge Series vessel.

The move comes just months after Celebrity Edge became the first ship to sail from a US port in June, following the long suspension of cruises due to the pandemic.

The line also launched its second Edge Series ship, Celebrity Apex, in June, while the third vessel in the class, Celebrity Beyond, is due to arrive in April 2022.

Richard Fain, outgoing chief executive of Celebrity’s parent firm Royal Caribbean Group, said: “The name of this new ship is very apropos as the industry rebounds, but also as Celebrity continues to lead the industry as an unmatched new-luxury brand and cruise line.

“Celebrity Ascent will take the industry to new heights as it pushes the boundaries of what people can experience on a ship and how they experience it.”

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, chief executive of Celebrity Cruises, added: “What another wonderful moment for our brand, our company and our industry to be in this incredible shipyard making the traditional first cut of steel on this magnificent ship and signalling the bright future that lies ahead.”