Celestyal celebrates maiden calls to Khasab, Sir Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi and DubaiCelestyal celebrates maiden calls to Khasab, Sir Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi and Dubai

The first three maiden calls took place as part of the cruise line’s first ‘Desert Days’ voyage - a seven-night cruise onboard Celestyal Journey, that departed from Doha on November 30.

The ceremonies were attended by representatives of Celestyal including Chris Theophilides, CEO and Captain George Koumpenas, chief operations officer, as well as local port officials.

Theophilides said: ‘We’re honoured to celebrate these milestone calls to Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi with plaque exchange ceremonies that mark the beginning of long and fruitful relationships.’

Dubai debut

Dec. 9 marked the ship's maiden call in Dubai with a dhow escort, a plaque exchange ceremony, and a star-studded party.

The event included a number of dhows – a traditional one or two-masted sailing vessel – guiding Celestyal Journey into port, signalling the synergy between tradition and new beginnings in the region.

Local dignitaries and influencers were then invited onboard for an evening of entertainment and celebrations, featuring special guests, DJ and performance artist Tinie and DJ Charlesy.

Celestyal’s Arabian Gulf programme sails until March 2025 and showcases a blend of iconic destinations and hidden gems. It will also feature again for a further two winter-sun seasons.‘With the addition of our second ship, Celestyal Discovery, homeporting in Abu Dhabi next year, we look forward to continuing to highlight the best the region has to offer,’ he added.

Two Celestyal ships in 2025

Celestyal Discovery will join Celestyal Journey in the region at the end of 2025, sailing three-night long weekend cruises round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha and Sir Bani Yas Island, and a four-night mid-week sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Khasab.