Celestyal has increased its presence in the Arabian Gulf by 30% as it looks to become the “go-to” cruise specialist for the area
New ship Celestyal Discovery will sail a series of winter sun Arabian Gulf itineraries from 2025. It joins Celestyal Journey in the region, which will depart on the previously launched seven-night Desert Days cruise later this year.
As a result, Discovery will no longer sail its scheduled Three Continents itinerary. Customers on the six affected departures have been contacted and either reimbursed or offered alternative cruises.
The vessel will now operate rotating three- and four-night itineraries from November to March, including a three-night Iconic Arabia cruise from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha and Sir Bani Yas Island. Prices start from £249pp.
A four-night version departs Abu Dhabi and calls at Fujairah, Muscat and Khasab and has prices from £309pp. Guests can combine the itineraries into a seven-night Gulf Icons sailing from £569pp.
Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, reported that 86% of the line’s guests say they want to come back to Celestyal. “So we’re delivering on our commitment to broaden our programmes.”
Celestyal reports 86% repeat business rate
He continued: “We’re renowned as the cruise specialists of the Greek islands and Mediterranean and, thanks to the commitment of the region and this overwhelming support from our customers and trusted partners, we are now confident in becoming the go-to cruise specialists of the Arabian Gulf.”
Earlier this year, Celestyal added a further five seven-night departures to its 2025 programme in response to increased demand and positive guest feedback.