Boutique cruise operator Celestyal Cruises announced an additional Arabian Gulf sailing, expanding its current capacity in the region by 10%.
According to the cruise line, the decision to add an extra itinerary was made in response to the “overwhelming popularity” of its Desert Days cruises which now have limited availability on the February 15, 22, and March 1, 2025 departures.
“We’re thrilled by the response to our Arabian Gulf itineraries, which offer guests the perfect blend of iconic landmarks and hidden gems,” shared Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett.
Booking Opens for Additional Arabian Sailing
The new Desert Days cruise is a five-day journey, leaving Dubai on March 3, 2025 and arriving in Abu Dhabi on March 7, 2025. Its route will allow guests to discover Khasab’s forts and fjords, Sir Bani Yas Island’s wildlife, and Abu Dhabi’s beaches and cultural landmarks.
The cruise line is also offering a 50% discount on fares through its Live Your Vacation Dream campaign. Through the promo, passengers can sign up for Arabian Gulf itineraries for a little over $600 per head. The price includes gratuities, port fees, meals, alcoholic beverages, and a shore excursion voucher.
Traveling Onboard Celestyal Journey
Passengers will travel onboard the Celestyal Journey, a Statendam-class cruise ship acquired by Celestyal in 2023. Since being built in 1994, the vessel has transferred ownership several times—from Holland America Line to P&O Cruises Australia to Seajets and finally Celestyal.
The vessel is scheduled to re-enter service on February 15, 2025 after a refit in Dubai. During the renovation, Celestyal Journey received a new livery and refreshed spaces.
The 55,819-ton vessel also underwent a $21 million refurbishment in September 2023. As a result, the cruise ship has a wider selection of dining establishments, bars, public venues, and open decks.
It has two pools, a movie theater, an area for cooking demonstrations, a spa and fitness center, and themed restaurants that serve Asian and Mediterranean dishes. Eighty percent of its lodgings are outside cabins with windows.
By November 2023, Celestyal Cruises secured its second cruise ship, the Celestyal Discovery. With two vessels, the cruise line regularly sails to the Middle East, the Arabian Gulf, the Mediterranean, and the Greek Islands.
