Celestyal has announced adjustments to its 2024/2025 cruise season, canceling its 14-night repositioning cruises from Athens to Doha and vice versa due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea region, according to a press release.
The affected sailings were originally scheduled for October 26, 2024, and March 8, 2025, onboard the Celestyal Journey.
The decision comes as a response to the increasing instability along the originally planned route, prompting the cruise line to reroute Celestyal Journey on a 34-night non-commercial repositioning voyage to and from Doha, Qatar, the company said.
This move is part of the company’s strategy to ensure the safety of its operations and maintain its commitment to the Arabian Gulf season.
As a result of the longer repositioning voyages, Celestyal has also canceled the first three “Desert Days” itineraries from Doha, which were set to depart on November 9, 16, and 23, 2024. Additionally, the first three 2025 “Heavenly Adriatic” itineraries, scheduled for March 22, 29, and April 5, have been canceled as the ship returns to Europe.
The ship will operate longer non-commercial sailings to and from Doha, according to the company.
The Celestyal Journey’s inaugural Arabian Gulf voyage will now be a modified seven-night “Desert Days & Qatar Grand Prix” cruise, departing from Doha on November 30, 2024. The itinerary includes a three-day stay in Doha for the Qatar Grand Prix, followed by an overnight in Dubai Marina, and stops at Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Abu Dhabi.
A similar seven-night “Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix” cruise will depart from Dubai on December 2, 2024, featuring a full-day and late-night stay in Abu Dhabi for the Grand Prix.
“We apologize for the inconvenience that today’s cancellation of a small number of our itineraries may have caused,” said Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal.
“Our impacted guests have all been offered alternative cruise options and/or reimbursement,” he added.
All affected passengers and travel partners have been informed, with alternative arrangements and protected commissions assured. Celestyal’s booking systems will be updated over the next two weeks to reflect these changes.
