Celestyal signs agreement with Abu Dhabi tourist board

Monday, Apr 14, 2025 0

Celestyal has signed a three-year agreement with The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The multi-year partnership, agreed at Seatrade Global in Miami, will promote Abu Dhabi as a key destination among Celestyal’s guests and help further establish the cruise line’s affiliations to the region.

Celestyal will return to the region with two ships in December this year, featuring three times weekly calls to Abu Dhabi across the winter season until March 2026.

Last year, Celestyal launched a seven-day ‘Desert Days’ itinerary onboard the 1260-guest Celestyal Journey, sailing roundtrip from Doha and calling at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. The successful inaugural season ran from November until March 2025, and will feature for a minimum of three seasons.

The recently refurbished 1360-guest Celestyal Discovery will join her fleet mate in the region, homeporting from Abu Dhabi from December 12, 2025, and sailing the three-, four- and seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises. The three-night long weekend sailings will operate roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, visiting Dubai and Sir Bani Yas Island for a combination of beach and wildlife safari experiences. The four-night midweek itineraries will sail roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha, Ras Al Khaimah and the coastal port of Khasab in Oman. Prices start from £558 for two people on a three-night voyage, and £698 for two people on a four-night cruise, with all meals, soft drinks and Wi-Fi included.

Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “It’s a privilege to sign this three-year agreement with DCT Abu Dhabi, and we’re grateful for their support in bringing this partnership to life. Abu Dhabi is a diverse and stunning destination, which is why we’re excited to not only homeport there but also include three weekly calls to the city throughout the winter season for the next three years.

“Abu Dhabi is an ideal fit for our guests who are looking for immersive and culturally rich experiences. We look forward to working closely with our agent partners to showcase everything it has to offer. The cruise industry in the Arabian Gulf is on track to welcome record passenger numbers in the coming years, and after a strong first season in the region, we’re excited to bring the very best of this special part of the world to our guests for many years to come.”

Celestyal’s shore excursion programme includes nine Abu Dhabi excursions that will transport 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.