As the sun sets on another vibrant summer, Celestyal Cruises is gearing up to elevate the cruising experience to new heights. The boutique cruise line, known for its intimate and immersive journeys, has announced a significant expansion, increasing its capacity by 30% and introducing year-round sailings. This exciting development includes new itineraries across Greece, the Mediterranean, and the Arabian Gulf, promising unforgettable voyages for avid cruisers and newcomers alike.

Year-Round Cruising: A First for Celestyal

For the first time in its history, Celestyal Cruises will offer year-round sailings, a move that reflects the growing demand for their unique travel experiences. The announcement includes comprehensive programs for 2025, 2026, and early 2027, featuring expanded Greek and Mediterranean itineraries and a bold venture into the Arabian Gulf.

Expanding Horizons in the Mediterranean and Beyond

Celestyal’s expansion in the Mediterranean includes eight additional Heavenly Adriatic cruises in 2025 and thirteen in 2026, responding to the overwhelming demand for this enchanting itinerary. These cruises will take guests on a captivating journey through Greece, Croatia, Montenegro, and Italy, with ports of call in destinations like Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Venice (Marghera), and Bari.

Celestyal Journey, one of the two ships in the refreshed fleet, will sail two seven-night itineraries during the Mediterranean and Aegean season:

  • Heavenly Adriatic Cruise: Departing from Athens, this itinerary includes a late stay in Dubrovnik and full-day stops in Kefalonia, Kotor, Bari, Corfu, and Katakolo. Prices start at $919 per person.
  • Heavenly Adriatic with Venice, Marghera: A variant of the Heavenly Adriatic, this cruise also departs from Athens and features full-day calls at Kotor, Split, Venice (Marghera), and Katakolo. Prices start at $919 per person.

Additionally, the “Idyllic Aegean” cruise will offer full days in Kusadasi (Ephesus), Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, Milos, and a late stay in Mykonos. These sailings can be combined with the Heavenly Adriatic itineraries on select dates to create a 14-night voyage, with prices starting from $1529 per person.

Shorter, Intensive Itineraries with Celestyal Discovery

For those seeking shorter yet equally immersive experiences, Celestyal Discovery will offer three- and four-night rotating itineraries during the summer season:

  • Three-night Iconic Aegean Cruise: Departing from Athens, this cruise visits Mykonos, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Patmos, Crete, and Santorini. Prices start at $359 per person.
  • Four-night Iconic Aegean Cruise: Also departing from Athens, this itinerary includes stops at Mykonos, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, and Santorini. Prices start at $459 per person.

These shorter itineraries are perfect for travelers looking to combine a cruise with a land stay or as an add-on to a longer vacation.

Venturing into the Arabian Gulf

Celestyal is set to make waves in the Arabian Gulf with the Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey both offering sailings in this exotic region starting in 2025. The Celestyal Discovery will operate rotating three- and four-night itineraries from November to March:

  • Three-night Iconic Arabia Cruise: Departing from Abu Dhabi, this cruise calls at Doha (Qatar) and Sir Bani Yas Island (UAE). Prices start at $319 per person.
  • Four-night Iconic Arabia Cruise: Also departing from Abu Dhabi, this itinerary includes stops at Fujairah (UAE), Muscat, and Khasab (both Oman). Prices start at $399 per person.

Guests can combine these itineraries into a seven-night “Gulf Icons” sailing, with prices starting at $729 per person.

Celestyal Journey will homeport in Doha for the “Desert Days” itinerary, a three-year partnership with the region. This itinerary features maiden calls to Khasab, Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain, with an option for an overnight stay in Dubai. The “Desert Days” itinerary launches on November 9, 2024, and includes festive cruises and special sailings for the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

A Personal Voyage with Celestyal

As a cruise enthusiast, I am thrilled to share that I will be embarking on my first Celestyal cruise this November. Sailing with Celestyal for the first time, I am eager to experience their award-winning service, intimate atmosphere, and immersive shore excursions firsthand. The anticipation of exploring the picturesque Greek islands and the cultural treasures of the Mediterranean fills me with excitement. I look forward to bringing you detailed coverage of my journey, offering insights and tips to help you plan your perfect cruise vacation.

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Commitment to Excellence

Celestyal’s commitment to delivering exceptional cruise experiences is evident in their continued expansion and innovation. As Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal, stated, “86% of our guests tell us they want to come back to Celestyal, so we’re delivering on our commitment to broaden our programs.” With newly refurbished ships, a diverse food and beverage offering, and immersive shore excursions, Celestyal is poised to become the go-to cruise line for the Greek islands, Mediterranean, and now the Arabian Gulf.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, Celestyal Cruises offers a variety of itineraries to suit your travel preferences. From short, destination-intensive cruises to longer, immersive journeys, Celestyal promises an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, culture, and relaxation. Stay tuned as I embark on my Celestyal adventure this November, and join me in exploring the wonders of the Mediterranean and beyond.