Celestyal to operate 'non-commercial' sailings in place of axed Red Sea cruises
Celestyal has axed eight sailings, including two repositioning cruises, due to the “recent escalation of political unrest” in countries neighbouring the Red Sea.
The line revealed Celestyal Journey would sail a 34-night “non-commercial” cruise to and from Doha instead of the original sailings.
To create the longer repositioning cruises, the first three scheduled Desert Days itineraries on 9, 16 and 23 November from Doha have been cancelled.
And due to Celestyal Journey’s delayed return to Europe, the first three Heavenly Adriatic itineraries on 22, 29 March and 5 April 2025 have also been pulled.
Celestyal Journey’s maiden voyage in the Arabian Gulf has been slightly amended. The 30 November departure will remain in Doha port for the first three days during the Qatar Grand Prix.
The next cruise on Celestyal Journey has also been changed and will now sail from Dubai on 2 December 2024, with a full day and late-night stay in Abu Dhabi on 8 December to accommodate guests attending the grand prix.
All affected guests have been offered alternative cruise options or a refund and agents’ commission has been protected, Celestyal said.
Celestyal Journey’s maiden Arabian Gulf season now comprises of nine seven-night Desert Days sailings between November 2024 and March 2025, with the option to embark in either Doha, Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
In addition, there are two grand prix voyages on 30 November and 2 December.
Chief commercial officer Lee 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.
“We apologise for the inconvenience that today’s cancellation of a small number of our itineraries may have caused.
“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.”
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