The Celestyal Journey has returned to service in the Arabian Gulf after undergoing a €6.5 million (approximately $6.8 million USD) refurbishment in Dubai.
The 1,260-passenger vessel, operated by Celestyal Cruises, resumed operations on Feb. 15 with a “Desert Days” itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Doha, Qatar, with calls in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai Marina, Khasab, and Sir Bani Yas Island.
The refit included a refreshed livery featuring the company’s signature wave and stars, aligning with its fleet mate, the Celestyal Discovery. Technical upgrades included the application of silicon paint on the ship’s underwater areas and enhancements to its power management system, aimed at improving operational efficiency.
Originally built in 1994 at Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard, the ship first entered service as the Ryndam for Holland America Line. It later sailed as Pacific Aria for P&O Cruises Australia before being acquired by Seajets and briefly renamed Aegean Goddess.
Celestyal Cruises took ownership in 2023, introducing the ship under its current name following an extensive refurbishment.
The company has reported strong demand for its Arabian Gulf sailings, with recent departures operating at full capacity. In response, Celestyal added a new sailing on March 3, 2025, joining previously scheduled departures from Doha on Feb. 22 and March 1 and from Dubai on Feb. 17 and 24.
After concluding its Gulf season, the Celestyal Journey will reposition to Athens for Mediterranean sailings starting April 12.
The ship will operate a new itinerary, “Heavenly Greece, Italy, and Croatia,” which includes stops in Kefalonia, Greece; Kotor, Montenegro; Bari, Italy; Corfu and Katakolo, Greece; and an overnight stay in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Celestyal plans additional maintenance for the ship before the Mediterranean season begins.
The vessel is scheduled to return to the Arabian Gulf on Dec. 6, 2025, kicking off the season with a sailing timed around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Celestyal Discovery will join the fleet in the region on Dec. 12, marking its inaugural season of homeporting in Abu Dhabi.
Celestyal Cruises has emphasized sustainability in its recent upgrades. The company has implemented energy efficiency improvements, waste reduction initiatives, and community engagement programs across its fleet.
The updated power management system aboard the Celestyal Journey will contribute to fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.
Celestyal’s expansion in the Arabian Gulf comes as mid-sized ships gain traction in the region. These vessels offer an alternative to the larger vessels deployed by competitors such as MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises.
