Celestyal hails ‘magical’ debut in Dubai
Athens, Greece [December 10, 2024] – Celestyal has marked its maiden call in Dubai with a
dhow escort, a plaque exchange ceremony and a star-studded party.
The event, which took place on December 9, saw a number of dhows – a traditional one or
two-masted sailing vessel – guide their flagship, Celestyal Journey into port, signalling the
synergy between tradition and new beginnings in the region.
Local dignitaries, influencers and local agent partners were then invited onboard for an
evening of entertainment and celebrations, featuring special guests, renowned DJ and
performance artist Tinie (formerly Tinie Tempah) and DJ Charlesy.
The call was the start of the ship’s seven-day ‘Desert Days’ itinerary, sailing roundtrip from
Dubai, and calling at Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Bahrain.
Lee Haslett, Celestyal Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Today marks a significant
milestone in our history, as we proudly call in Dubai for our first season. The dhow escort
into port was a magical moment and the perfect way to officially start our long-term
relationship with this captivating destination. We would like to thank our partners in the
region and look forward to a successful first season and beyond. Dubai just had to be on our
Desert Days itinerary as it is an iconic destination for our guests. As a truly global city, it
provides the ideal mix of culture, immersion and bucket-list moments.”
Celestyal’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season sails until March 2025, and will feature in the
winter season for three years. Celestyal Discovery will then join Celestyal Journey in the
region at the end of 2025, home porting in Abu Dhabi in another three-year partnership,
sailing three-night long weekend ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at
Doha and Sir Bani Yas Island, and a four-night mid-week ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruise sailing
roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Khasab.






