5 minute read
After recently sailing on Celestyal Journey for the first time, I’ve been keeping a close eye on what Celestyal Cruises is doing next. (If you’re curious about that sailing, check out my full Celestyal Journey review or my detailed Heavenly Adriatic itinerary breakdown.) Now, the cruise line has just unveiled official images from its latest round of upgrades aboard Celestyal Discovery—and the new cabins are a major step up. With more suites, better use of space, and fresh design touches, this ship is ready to make its Arabian Gulf debut this December. Here’s a closer look at what guests can expect onboard.
New Premium Accommodations: A First Look
Celestyal Discovery just wrapped a major winter refit in Athens, and the results speak for themselves. The 1,360-guest ship now features 47 brand-new staterooms, bringing more spacious, high-end options to its lineup. This move increases premium capacity by over 50%, something that regular Celestyal cruisers and newcomers will definitely appreciate.
Design agency AMK led the overhaul, with stateroom aesthetics influenced by the destinations the ship will visit. The style feels modern and clean but keeps the personality and warmth that Celestyal is known for.
Junior Dream Suites: Balcony Comfort at Sea
The new Junior Dream Suites are a solid upgrade for travelers who want extra space without going over the top. There are 30 of these suites now onboard, most of which come with private balconies. The layout makes smart use of square footage, giving guests a more relaxed setting for sea days or a quiet moment between excursions.
I’ve had the chance to review suites before, and I can tell you—these updated cabins are definitely a step in the right direction for Celestyal. The extra breathing room alone makes these suites a smart pick if you’re looking to elevate your onboard experience without jumping into full luxury.
Grand Horizon Suites: The Best Views Onboard
Then there are the Grand Horizon Suites, perched above the bridge with panoramic views and private balconies around 167 square feet. These are the top-tier staterooms on Celestyal Discovery and offer a high-end alternative for guests who want the best views and maximum space.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to cruise in total comfort, these suites are worth a look. From the early images, they seem like a real standout—especially for couples looking for a more elevated, private experience at sea.
Additional Capacity with Cosmos Cabins
Not to be overlooked, Celestyal also added 15 new interior “Cosmos Cabins”, which helps bump overall capacity by 7.4%. For budget-conscious cruisers, these updated interiors offer a refreshed base without sacrificing style.
It’s clear that Celestyal is working hard to appeal to a wider variety of travelers. Whether you’re chasing premium perks or just want a solid cabin as your home base, there’s now something for everyone aboard Discovery.
Sailing into the Arabian Gulf: New Itineraries
The newly refreshed ship returns to service in the Mediterranean this summer, but all eyes are on Celestyal Discovery’s Arabian Gulf debut this December. The ship will join Celestyal Journey in the region, which returns December 6 with a special Grand Prix celebratory sailing.
Celestyal Discovery will homeport in Abu Dhabi through March 2026, with future Arabian Gulf seasons confirmed for the next three years. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s on offer:
- Three-Night “Iconic Arabia” Cruise
Roundtrip from Abu Dhabi (Friday–Monday)
Stops: Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island (with beach and wildlife safari options)
Starting from $339 per person - Four-Night “Iconic Arabia” Cruise
Roundtrip from Abu Dhabi (Monday–Friday)
Stops: Doha, Dubai (via Ras Al Khaimah), and Khasab (Oman)
Starting from $429 per person - Seven-Night Option
Combine the two itineraries for a full week sailing starting from $689 per person
A Cruise Line Investing in the Guest Experience
As someone who recently got a firsthand taste of what Celestyal brings to the table, I can say this latest refit reinforces the brand’s commitment to enhancing guest comfort. Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett summed it up best when he noted the balance between more space and preserving the small-ship charm. That’s the sweet spot Celestyal seems to be aiming for—and based on these updates, they’re getting it right.
Deals You Should Know About
Alongside the release of the cabin images, Celestyal launched a Summer Promotion that runs through August 31, 2025. Guests can save up to 60% across 87 sailings, spanning from June 2025 through March 2027. The fare includes:
- Meals
- Soft drinks
- WiFi
- Port fees and gratuities
Plus, you’ll receive 25% extra value on any credit added to your CelestyalPay tab before departure, giving you up to €250 in onboard spend. If you’ve been considering giving Celestyal a try—or returning for a second sailing like I will—this is a good time to book.
Watch My Room Tour from Celestyal Journey
Curious what staying in a Celestyal suite looks like? Check out my full Celestyal Journey room tour on YouTube for a behind-the-scenes look at what these accommodations really offer. It’s not the Discovery, but the DNA is definitely shared.
Celestyal Discovery’s cabin upgrades make a clear statement: the cruise line is serious about raising the bar while staying true to its roots. With refreshed accommodations, expanded itineraries, and competitive pricing, Celestyal is proving it can keep pace with guest expectations without losing the charm that makes it unique.
