Celestyal Discovery/fka AIDAaura recently concluded her inaugural voyage around the Aegean on March 22, 2024, debuting the cruise line’s fresh livery. Departing from Lavrion, Greece, under the command of Captain Panagiotis Giakoumatos and his crew, the ship’s officers, along with Celestyal’s global leadership team, warmly welcomed guests on board for the voyage.
The ship embarked on its maiden journey following the “Iconic Aegean” itinerary, making port calls in Mykonos, Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey; Patmos Island, and Santorini, Greece, encompassing a total of 5 ports during the 3-night voyage. From March to November 2024, Celestyal Discovery will alternate between this 3-night itinerary and a 4-night option, offering an extended stay in Rhodes.
After joining the fleet in November 2023, the 1,266-guest Celestyal Discovery underwent a significant multimillion-dollar refurbishment. Notable enhancements include revamped social spaces and a complete refresh of staterooms. The ship now features new amenities such as Cafe Nation, serving illy coffee, the Pizza Oven eatery, and the Discovery Lounge, which will host various brand partnerships throughout the season.
The 12-deck-high liner has a total of 627 staterooms. Onboard dining options include two main restaurants - Thalassa and The Taverna - along with Grill Seekers, a specialty surf and turf restaurant, and poolside venues such as the Greek Deli and Fig & Honey for refreshments. Guests can also enjoy facilities such as the Sozo Spa, Glow Beauty Bar, a fully equipped gym, and an expansive pool deck, similar to those found on the sister ship, Celestyal Journey. Additionally, the ship offers five bars and lounges, including the focal Star Bar on Deck 8, Ocean Bar on Deck 7, and AFTer Bar & Club on Deck 10.
The vessel's updated livery features a refreshed logo and wordmark, along with a distinctive blue wave hull, symbolizing the collaborative spirit across the company and its forward momentum. The design also incorporates the signature Celestyal stars and a unique funnel design tailored to each vessel’s aesthetics.
Furthermore, guests booking before April 30, 2024, can benefit from low deposits of US$150 per booking.
Celestyal Journey is scheduled to receive its livery update at the beginning of 2025 during scheduled maintenance in the Arabian Gulf. The ship will transition to a year-round operation with a winter season homeporting in Doha, Qatar, from November 2024 to March 2025.