Celestyal Cruises Expands Arabian Gulf Itineraries in 2025-2026

Celestyal has announced updated itineraries for its 2025 to 2026 Arabian Gulf season following the success of its inaugural voyages in the region.

The boutique cruise line is introducing refreshed three- and four-night Iconic Arabia sailings aboard Celestyal Discovery, with additional ports of call based on guest feedback.

Expanded Itineraries and New Ports

Aerial view of Doha's cityscape reveals a blend of modern and traditional buildings. In the foreground, a distinctive spiral minaret stands out, while the skyline features towering skyscrapers lining the waterfront. The sky is clear, setting a perfect scene for Embarkation Day on the Celestyal Journey.

Building on insights from passengers, travel advisors, and regional partners, Celestyal has adjusted its upcoming itineraries to include more time in key destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, while adding Ras Al Khaimah as a new port of call.

The two itineraries for the upcoming season are:

Three-Night Iconic Arabia (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island)

These roundtrip weekend sailings depart on Fridays from Abu Dhabi. Passengers will experience Dubai’s iconic attractions before heading to Sir Bani Yas Island for beach and wildlife safari adventures. 

Four-Night Iconic Arabia (Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Oman)

A bustling market street at night teems with people walking and dining. String lights, reminiscent of those on Celestyal Cruises exploring the Arabian Gulf, illuminate the scene. A large flag and various shop signs line the cobblestone path as individuals capture memories of a magical evening.

Iconic Arabia also offers roundtrip cruises leaving on Mondays. As the vessel calls on Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Oman, passengers can go sightseeing in Doha, Dubai (via Ras Al Khaimah), and the ancient maritime port of Khasab.

Both itineraries are part of Celestyal’s “Live Your Vacation Dream” promotion, which offers up to €100 (approximately $105 USD) of complimentary specialty drinks and dining per person for bookings made by March 16, 2025.

Guest Experience

On Embarkation Day, people gather on the decks of the Celestyal Journey cruise ship during sunset. The scene includes a pool, lifebuoy, and several levels of decks with railings. The skyline of Doha is visible in the background under a hazy sky.

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal, emphasized the importance of passenger feedback in shaping new itineraries.

“Our guests have told us they love iconic destinations like Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, as well as discovering more off-the-beaten-track ports that are synonymous with a Celestyal voyage, such as Sir Bani Yas Island and the coastal resort of Khasab,” Hasslet shared.

“We’re known for our destination-immersive and port-intensive cruises, so we have refined our 2025 itineraries to offer more time in our guests’ favorite ports, while adding an additional port in the stunning Ras Al Khaimah.”

Season Launch and Fleet Details

The majestic Celestyal Journey, a large white cruise ship with a striking blue hull, is docked at the port for Embarkation Day. Lifeboats line its side as people gather near security barricades on the pavement. The sky over Doha remains clear and bright.

Celestyal Discovery will begin its Arabian Gulf sailings on December 12, 2025 while the newly refurbished Celestyal Journey joins it on December 6, 2025. The season begins with Celestyal Journey’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix celebratory cruise. 

Both vessels will continue to offer the recently expanded Desert Days sailings. From December to March, cruisers can register for the popular three-, four-, and seven-night itineraries.

With more destinations and a greater focus on guest experiences, Celestyal’s upcoming Arabian Gulf season promises a diverse range of voyages for travelers looking to explore the region by sea.