Celestyal Enhances Collaboration with Qatar Tourism, Visit Qatar, and Mwani Qatar
This partnership was officially announced at the Arabian Travel Market, held from April 28 to May 1.
Celestyal is expected to double its passenger capacity to Doha, Qatar, over the next three years, implementing twice-weekly visits during the winter season, in addition to an ongoing three-year homeporting agreement.
Last year, Celestyal introduced its “Desert Days” cruise aboard the 1,260-passenger Celestyal Journey, based in Doha. The inaugural season welcomed 14,500 travelers, with 10 percent hailing from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and nearby regions. Due to the success of the first season, which was extended in response to demand, the company plans to return with two ships in December 2025, making twice-weekly stops in Qatar.
This seven-night “Desert Days” cruise departs and returns to Doha, with stops at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain, including a one-night stay in Dubai. Prices start at 1,278 euros for two people for the entire seven-night journey, covering all meals, beverages, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
The newly renovated 1,360-passenger Celestyal Discovery will also join the Celestyal Journey in the region for the next three winter seasons, offering the new “Images of Arabia” cruises of three, four, and seven nights. These cruises will depart from and return to Abu Dhabi, featuring stops in Doha, Khasab, Dubai, and Sir Bani Yas Island, as well as a visit to Ras al Khaimah. Rates start at 618 euros for two on a three-night cruise and 778 euros for two on a four-night cruise, inclusive of all meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s commercial director, commented, “We are honored to extend and strengthen our partnership with Qatar Tourism, Visit Qatar, and Mwani Qatar. Doha is one of Celestyal’s key homeports and has been well-received by our guests, so we’re excited to increase our calls to the region over the next three years with twice-weekly visits during the winter season.”
“After a successful first season in the Arabian Gulf with Celestyal Journey, we’re thrilled to double our capacity in the coming years, with Celestyal Discovery also set to sail to the region starting this December. There’s a strong demand for experiences in the Arabian Gulf, and we’re proud to showcase this vibrant area.”
Celestyal’s itinerary offers 10 excursions in Qatar, allowing guests to explore the rich cultural landmarks. These include afternoon tea, mosque visits, beach relaxation, and immersive full-day tours led by local guides, featuring sites like the Falcon Souk, the Grand Mosque, luxury boutiques, and renowned museums.
During the first season, popular excursions included the “Off-Road Excursion to a Closed Sea,” which provides insights into local life before venturing into the desert and a national heritage-recognized tidal bay. The “A Cultural Journey to Doha” excursion takes participants from Souk Waqif and Pearl Qatar Island to the Dhow Port and the stunning Museum of Islamic Art. Both half-day excursions begin at 62 euros per person.
