As part of this strategic effort, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was integrated into the itinerary, reinforcing the cruise line’s commitment to experiential travel and destination-led storytelling. The voyage also highlighted the evolution of the Desert Days and Iconic Arabia cruise programs, both positioned as cornerstone offerings for regional tourism development. Strong participation from North America further underscored the importance of transcontinental partnerships in driving demand for Gulf itineraries. Through this collaborative and experience-driven approach, Celestyal’s regional presence has been expanded while meaningful dialogue with the global travel trade has been actively encouraged, setting a confident tone for the winter cruise season in the Arabian Gulf.
Global Travel Partners Welcomed Aboard Celestyal Journey
The commencement of Celestyal’s second winter
deployment in the Arabian Gulf was celebrated through the hosting of an
exclusive familiarization voyage for international travel partners. A total of
13 partners were welcomed onboard with representation drawn from eight global
markets. Six advisors from North America were included, reflecting the
strategic importance of the region to Celestyal’s long-term growth plans.
This sailing was operated aboard the Celestyal Journey and was positioned as a high-value engagement platform where advisors could experience the onboard product, regional itineraries, and shore programs firsthand. The voyage was designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the cruise line’s offerings while reinforcing confidence among trade partners selling Gulf itineraries to long-haul travelers.
Integration of Formula 1 Experiences Into Cruise Tourism
A central highlight of the voyage was the integration
of Formula 1 culture into the cruising experience. Participation in a hosted
discussion with David Coulthard, a former Formula 1 driver, entrepreneur,
author, and broadcaster, was included as part of the itinerary. The session was
moderated alongside Laura Winter, a UK-based sports broadcaster and
commentator.
During the onboard engagement, insights were shared on professional racing careers, the evolving dynamics of the current Formula 1 season, and the global significance of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This experience was structured to create a premium, behind-the-scenes atmosphere that aligned sporting prestige with luxury travel. Through this approach, cruise tourism was positioned as a gateway to globally celebrated events, particularly within the United Arab Emirates.
Supported by Abu Dhabi Culture and Tourism Authorities
The familiarization trip was conducted between
December 5 and December 9, 2025, and was supported by the Department of Abu
Dhabi Culture and Tourism. This collaboration highlighted the growing alignment
between cruise operators and regional tourism authorities in promoting the
Arabian Gulf as a cohesive, high-value destination.
Three nights were spent onboard the Celestyal Journey,
complemented by curated shore experiences designed to showcase the cultural,
modern, and entertainment-driven facets of Abu Dhabi and surrounding ports.
Premium access to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was also included, reinforcing the
destination’s position as a hub for major international events and experiential
travel.
Launch of the Winter Desert Days Cruise Program
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix sailing also served as the
formal opening of the Celestyal Journey’s winter deployment in the Arabian
Gulf. This deployment includes a sequence of seven-night Desert Days cruises,
each designed to offer a balanced blend of urban discovery, cultural immersion,
and leisure-focused cruising.
The regular Desert Days itinerary operates roundtrip
from Doha in Qatar and features an overnight stay in Dubai in the United Arab
Emirates. Additional ports of call include Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi in
the United Arab Emirates, as well as Bahrain. This itinerary structure was
crafted to allow deeper exploration of each destination while maintaining a
relaxed pace suitable for both first-time and returning visitors to the region.
Pricing for the seven-night Desert Days cruises has
been positioned to appeal to a broad market segment, with fares starting at
$739 per person. This competitive pricing strategy supports wider accessibility
while maintaining premium service standards.
Expansion With Celestyal Discovery and Iconic Arabia Cruises
Further capacity expansion in the region was achieved
with the arrival of the Celestyal Discovery, which joined the Celestyal Journey
on December 12, 2025. This addition marked the launch of a new range of three-,
four-, and seven-night Iconic Arabia cruises.
These shorter itineraries operate roundtrip from Abu
Dhabi and include calls at Doha in Qatar, Khasab in Oman, Dubai in the United
Arab Emirates, and Sir Bani Yas Island. Maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah in the
United Arab Emirates were also introduced, adding fresh destination appeal and
itinerary diversity.
The Iconic Arabia cruises were designed to cater to
travelers seeking flexible cruise durations while still experiencing the
cultural and geographic variety of the Arabian Gulf. Entry-level pricing has
been set at $359 per person for three-night sailings, supporting demand from
both regional and international markets.
Strengthening Opportunities for North American Trade Partners
With two ships now operating concurrently in the
Arabian Gulf, a significant increase in regional capacity has been achieved.
This expansion has been positioned as a key opportunity for North American
trade partners, enabling broader product offerings and increased itinerary
options for clients interested in Middle Eastern cruise travel.
Feedback collected from global advisors during the
onboard experience has been described as highly positive, particularly
regarding itinerary design, onboard service quality, and destination
programming. Ongoing collaboration with the travel trade has been emphasized as
a central component of Celestyal’s growth strategy in the region.
A Strategic Step Forward for Arabian Gulf Cruise Tourism
Through the combined deployment of the Celestyal
Journey and the Celestyal Discovery, a clear commitment has been demonstrated
toward developing the Arabian Gulf as a premier cruise destination. By
integrating world-class events, culturally rich ports, and strong trade
partnerships, Celestyal’s approach has reinforced the region’s appeal to
international travelers.
This season-opening initiative has positioned the
United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain as interconnected destinations
within a cohesive cruise experience. As the winter season progresses, continued
engagement with global partners is expected to support sustainable growth,
enhanced visibility, and long-term success for Gulf cruise tourism.
Tags: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain Celestyal