Celestyal Journey ship restarted revenue operations following a EUR 6.5 million drydock refurbishment, with upgrades aimed at enhancing both performance and aesthetics. The work, carried out in Dubai, included the application of a new livery, hull treatment with silicon-based paint, and engine improvements to optimize operational efficiency.
The 1260-passenger vessel resumed operations from Doha, calling at Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Khasab, and Sir Bani Yas Island. It is scheduled for 2 additional departures from Doha on February 22nd and March 1st, as well as 3 sailings from Dubai on February 17th and 24th, with an additional March 3rd departure introduced to meet increased demand.
Following her Gulf season, Celestyal Journey will reposition to Piraeus-Athens for the start of her Greece and Mediterranean summer schedule, undergoing further maintenance before its April 12th departure. The vessel is set to return to the Arabian Gulf on December 6th, commencing its winter season with a sailing that includes the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Celestyal's fleet expansion in the region will continue with the introduction of Celestyal Discovery, which will embark on its inaugural Gulf season from Abu Dhabi on December 12th.
Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett highlighted the strong demand for Celestyal’s Gulf itineraries, noting that the final 3 Doha-Doha sailings have operated at full capacity. He also emphasized that, since launching the program, guest numbers have exceeded initial targets by 35%, reflecting the growing interest in exploring the region aboard Celestyal’s intimate, mid-sized ships.