In a bold move to redefine premium cruising, Celestyal has announced substantial updates to its fleet and fare structure, reflecting its commitment to elevated guest experiences and streamlined onboard offerings. The Greek cruise line, known for immersive journeys through the Aegean, is enhancing its newest vessel, Celestyal Discovery, with a significant refit slated for April 2025. The upgrades promise more luxury suite options, tailored amenities, and exclusive dining experiences, marking Celestyal’s ambition to cater to discerning travellers seeking comfort, choice, and value.

Expanding Celestyal Discovery: 47 New Cabins, Two Exclusive Grand Horizon Suites

Celestyal’s investment includes 47 new cabins, boosting Celestyal Discovery’s capacity by 7.4% to 1,300 guests. Two exclusive Grand Horizon Suites are among these additions, positioned above the bridge for sweeping ocean views and ultimate privacy. These suites, with spacious balconies and refined interiors, are tailored for travellers seeking a unique perspective on their journey. The Grand Horizon Suites embody Celestyal’s new design language, which seamlessly adapts to the aesthetics of the ship’s seasonal homeports.

Alongside these luxurious suites, the refit will introduce 30 Junior Dream Suites, a fresh stateroom category emphasizing comfort and style. Guests will also have the option of 15 Cosmos Cabins—interior staterooms redesigned to maximize space while maintaining elegance and functionality. Each cabin type reflects Celestyal’s ethos of providing a home away from home, with added touches that cater to the modern traveller’s expectations.

Elevated Dining Experience: Exclusive Venues and Regional Flavours

Celestyal is introducing elevated dining options exclusively for suite guests in line with these cabin enhancements. The popular Smoked Olive restaurant, previously available on other vessels, will now serve Celestyal Discovery’s suite guests as a dedicated dining venue, offering a tailored menu and an intimate atmosphere. Moreover, a unique pop-up concept will bring regional cuisine to life with a private bookable dining area showcasing dishes inspired by the ship’s ports of call. This approach enhances onboard culinary experiences and deepens guests’ connection with the destinations they visit.

Premium Stateroom Amenities: From Private Sundecks to Pillow Menus

Celestyal’s attention to detail extends beyond cabin expansions to premium stateroom amenities. In response to guest demand for an elevated cruising experience, suite guests will enjoy priority check-in, a ‘Sail Away’ party exclusively for balcony and suite guests, and access to Ray’s Sundeck and Cabanas, a private retreat designed for Grand Dream and Grand Horizon Suite guests. Celestyal’s flagship vessel, Celestyal Journey, offers additional amenities for its Grand Suite guests, including complimentary access to the Thermal Spa Suite, complete with a private jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and a secluded relaxation area. For added convenience, select suite guests like those in the Stargazer Penthouse Suite will also benefit from an in-room, unlimited mini-bar.

Celestyal’s VP of Brand, Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience, Anna Gregori, commented on the fleet enhancements: “Following Celestyal Discovery’s extensive refurbishment earlier this year, these updates reinforce our dedication to continually evolving the guest experience. With new premium suites and an enriched suite guest offering, we’re excited to provide guests with an unparalleled experience as they explore the Aegean and beyond.”

Launch Timeline and Promotional Pricing

The newly enhanced cabins on Celestyal Discovery are set to be available from December 10, 2024, with the first voyages commencing in April 2025. As part of a limited-time promotional offer, Celestyal offers special rates on its three-night ‘Iconic Aegean’ cruise departing from Athens in November 2025. Prices start at A$499 per person for an interior Cosmos cabin, A$1,109 per person for a balcony cabin, and A$1,629 per person for a Grand Dream Suite. This offer allows travellers to experience the new premium features at an accessible rate, with bookings available until November 24, 2024.

Introducing ‘Celestyal One’: Simplified Fare Structure for Effortless Cruising

In addition to physical upgrades, Celestyal is streamlining its fare structure by introducing Celestyal One, an all-inclusive package that will replace the line’s previous ‘Experience’ and ‘Experience Plus’ options. Set to launch in December 2024, the Celestyal One fare aims to simplify the booking process while offering a comprehensive package that includes essential cruise components.

With Celestyal One, guests will receive essential WiFi access, which allows them to browse the web, email, and select messaging apps. The fare also covers filter coffee, tea, water, and juice throughout the day and unlimited soft drinks with meals in the main dining areas. Port fees, taxes, and crew gratuities are all included, allowing guests to enjoy their voyage without the burden of hidden costs.

Celestyal is also redefining its onboard beverage options by eliminating beverage packages. Instead, guests can use a prepaid digital wallet, CelestyalPay, which can be loaded with funds pre-cruise to earn bonus credits or topped up as needed onboard. For example, pre-purchasing a €1000 tab entitles guests to an additional €250 credit, enhancing value and enabling greater flexibility during their cruise.

Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, elaborated on the decision to simplify fare structures, stating, “Our new Celestyal One fare structure and CelestyalPay are direct responses to valuable feedback from our guests and travel partners. This simplified approach enhances choice, flexibility, and ultimately value—something our guests prioritize. From complimentary WiFi to inclusive gratuities, we’re committed to providing guests with everything they need for a seamless experience onboard.”

Expanded Dining Choices Across the Fleet

To further enhance onboard dining experiences, Celestyal is expanding complimentary dining options across its two-ship fleet. The line’s famous Greek Deli and Pizza Oven venues will now be available as informal eateries in the afternoons. These new venues join Celestyal’s main restaurant, Thalassa, and buffet-style eatery, Taverna, offering guests various culinary options focusing on fresh, locally inspired ingredients. The Pizza Oven will debut exclusively on Celestyal Discovery. At the same time, Celestyal Journey will offer fresh pizza slices at select times, catering to guests seeking quick and delicious bites throughout the day.

A New Era of Celestyal Cruises

With these fleet upgrades and the introduction of the Celestyal One fare structure, Celestyal Cruises is making a decisive statement about its future direction. From enhanced premium suites and personalized guest amenities to a streamlined pricing model and expanded dining choices, Celestyal is committed to redefining the standard of value in the cruise industry. These changes underscore Celestyal’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of modern travellers, delivering a journey where convenience, comfort, and cultural immersion come together seamlessly.

For more details on Celestyal’s latest offerings, travellers and industry professionals can visit the Celestyal Trade Portal or speak directly with a Celestyal business development representative by calling 1800 648 737.

 

 

 

Written by: Octavia Koo

 

 

 

 

 

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