Celestyal finalises agreement with Abu Dhabi and AD Ports Group

The MOU, signed at Arabian Travel Market, will promote Abu Dhabi as a key destination among Celestyal’s guests and help further raise the cruise line’s profile in the region.

Celestyal has previously launched a seven-day ‘Desert Days’ itinerary for 2024, sailing roundtrip from Doha and calling at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. The itinerary launches from November until March 2025, with a number of special sailings such as festive cruises and will feature for three seasons.

All voyages are on the 1,260-passenger Celestyal Journey, which joined the line last year, although Celestyal has hinted that the recently purchased and refurbished 1,266-passenger Celestyal Discovery may also be set to join the region for the winter season in the near future. Due to popularity, there is currently limited availability across all new departures.

Lee Haslett, Celestyal chief commercial officer, said: "It’s a huge privilege to sign this agreement and we would like to thank DCT Abu Dhabi for all their support. Our ethos has always been to proudly partner and showcase our fabulous destinations, building strong connections with the regions we visit. Abu Dhabi is a truly unique destination, and we are eagerly anticipating showcasing everything it has to offer to our guests. The cruise industry continues to attract record passenger numbers and we are looking forward to a successful first season that highlights the very best of this special region."

Celestyal’s vision is firmly rooted in creating unmissable experiences at sea and ashore, and they are committed to showcasing the best of the region to their guests. As part of their award-winning shore excursion offerings, they already offer nine Abu Dhabi excursions that will transport their guests to the heart of the emirate, including half day tours taking in the best of Abu Dhabi, food and culture explorations, theme park visits, VIP beach days, as well as the classic desert safaris and attractions.

The ‘Desert Days’ itinerary is available to book from £469pp for seven nights and includes £65pp shore excursion discount, full board, select drinks with meals, all port and service charges. All cruises are on sale now and include 50% deposits as part of the Spring campaign, bringing deposits down to as low as £125 per booking.