Celestyal Cruises issued an update regarding its upcoming sailings in the Middle East onboard the Celestyal Discovery and the Celestyal Journey.
According to the company, both ships will remain alongside in Dubai and Doha for the time being due to the geopolitical situation in the region.
“The safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew remain our highest priority,” Celestyal said in a statement issued on Sunday.
“We regret to inform our guests and travel partners that, in view of the current circumstances in the Middle East, the Celestyal Journey cruise scheduled to depart from Dubai on March 2 and the Celestyal Discovery cruise scheduled to depart from Abu Dhabi on March 2 have been cancelled,” the company added.
Celestyal said that the Journey is expected to remain docked in Doha through March 7, with guests onboard being offered the option to disembark at the Qatari port or remain on the ship.
The company added that, subject to operating conditions, the vessel is then expected to resume its scheduled Desert Days itineraries.
The Celestyal Discovery is currently alongside in Dubai, where it is expected to remain for the time being.
“At present, in line with instructions from local authorities, we are unable to disembark guests. We are working closely with the relevant authorities and will begin disembarkation in Dubai as soon as permission is granted,” Celestyal explained.
Guests onboard will be advised as soon as further information is available, the company continued, noting that it will provide support with transfers from the ship to the Abu Dhabi airport.
“All guests who were due to travel on the cancelled sailings will be offered the option of a full refund or a future cruise credit,” the company explained.
“We strongly encourage guests to speak directly with their travel provider regarding onward or alternative travel arrangements,” Celestyal continued.
“We sincerely apologize for the disruption to their travel plans and greatly appreciate their patience and understanding while we work through this evolving situation.”
