Discovery is the second vessel bought by the Greek Island specialist cruise line this year after the acquisition of Celestyal Journey, formerly Holland America Line’s Ryndam.

Discovery will undergo a “multimillion-euro” refit ahead of Celestyal’s 2024 programme beginning in March.

Built in 2003, Discovery features 633 staterooms and is able to carry 1,266 guests. The ship will go on sale on 11 December, taking over Celestyal Olympia’s 2024 programme.

The line said special launch offers will be included in Black Friday promotions published later this week, as well as throughout its “biggest wave campaign to date”, starting at the end of the year.  

Guests currently due to sail on Olympia will be contacted by Celestyal and rebooked on Discovery sailings.

Discovery will feature a number of Celestyal favourites – including the Grillseekers speciality restaurant, Sozo wellness retreat, Greek Deli and a Fig and Honey gelato and juice bar.

There will also be “surprise additions” with further details regarding the onboard itineraries announced “in due course”.

Chris Theophilides, chief executive of Celestyal, said: “Given strong market and business conditions, we are thrilled to have expedited the renewal of our fleet to welcome the Celestyal Discovery into the Celestyal family.

“Celestyal Discovery joins the Celestyal Journey to undergo an extensive refurbishment programme over the winter period, signifying further our intent to keep delighting our customers. As a confident challenger brand, our team is excited to continue to make waves across the industry next season, with a refreshed fleet, brand, network, and a renewed sense of direction.”