In a significant move that underscores the volatility of international travel, Celestyal Cruises has announced major adjustments to its 2024/2025 cruise season. The company has cancelled its highly anticipated 14-night repositioning cruises, scheduled initially to navigate the historically rich route from “Ancient Athens to Dazzling Doha” and its reverse counterpart, due to escalating political tensions in the Red Sea region.

These sailings, set to depart on October 26, 2024, and March 8, 2025, aboard the Celestyal Journey, have been scrapped in favour of a strategic pivot. Instead, Celestyal will embark on a 34-night non-commercial repositioning cruise, maintaining the year-round program’s integrity while marking the commencement of Celestyal’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season.

Strategic Shift in Response to Geopolitical Climate

The decision to cancel these high-profile cruises comes after a thorough risk assessment of the planned route through the Red Sea, an area currently experiencing significant geopolitical unrest. Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to safety and the success of their new Arabian Gulf ventures.

“We recently announced our full cruise program through to March 2027 to build simplicity and assurance into our offering,” Haslett said. “In light of the current geopolitical climate in our original path of passage to this year’s winter season, we have decided to operate longer non-commercial repositioning sailings to and from Qatar. Celestyal Journey will continue to proudly homeport from Doha, Qatar, from November 2024, for the next three winter seasons.”

Impact on Scheduled Itineraries

To facilitate this longer repositioning journey, Celestyal has also cancelled the first three scheduled ‘Desert Days’ itineraries from Doha, which were set to depart on November 9, 16, and 23, 2024. Moreover, the return voyage of Celestyal Journey to Europe will see the cancellation of the first three 2025 ‘Heavenly Adriatic’ itineraries, initially planned for March 22, 29, and April 5, 2025.

Despite these cancellations, Celestyal remains committed to offering enriching travel experiences, with the newly revised Arabian Gulf season offering two extraordinary Grand Prix voyages. The first, a seven-night “Desert Days and Qatar Grand Prix” cruise, will now depart from Doha on November 30, 2024, offering guests a front-row seat to the thrilling Qatar Grand Prix, along with stops in Dubai Marina, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Abu Dhabi. The second voyage, a seven-night “Desert Days and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix” cruise will sail from Dubai on December 2, 2024, featuring an extended stay in Abu Dhabi to coincide with the Grand Prix race on December 8.

Commitment to Guest Satisfaction

Understanding the disruption these changes may cause, Celestyal has taken proactive steps to accommodate affected guests. Those booked on the now-cancelled itineraries have been offered alternative cruise options or full reimbursement. Additionally, travel partners have been kept in the loop, with protected commission and updated booking options to ensure seamless rebooking for clients.

“We apologize for the inconvenience that today’s cancellation of a small number of our itineraries may have caused,” Haslett added. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to our global year-round operation in the Greek islands, Mediterranean, and Arabian Gulf, and would like to thank our valued guests and trade partners for their understanding and support. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard Celestyal Journey for her inaugural Arabian Gulf season in late November this year.”

Looking Ahead: The Arabian Gulf Season

Celestyal’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season is now poised to deliver an exciting nine seven-night ‘Desert Days’ sailings between November 2024 and March 2025. These itineraries offer flexible embarkation points in Doha, Abu Dhabi, or Dubai, catering to a diverse range of travellers.

With the inclusion of the exclusive Grand Prix voyages, Celestyal Cruises is positioning itself as a premier choice for travellers seeking a blend of luxury, culture, and high-octane sporting events. This strategic shift not only reflects the company’s adaptability to global challenges but also its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional cruise experiences.

Travel agents and guests are encouraged to visit the Celestyal trade portal or contact their local Celestyal business development representative for the latest updates and booking information.

Written by: Octavia Koo

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