Celestyal launches ‘Desert Days’ shore excursions

Sailing on the 1,260-passenger Celestyal Journey, which joined the line in September last year, the seven-night voyage first sets sail on November 9, 2024. Departing from Doha, Qatar, the itinerary includes Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab (Oman), Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi.

The programme offers a range of half-day, full-day and two-day options, and includes two ‘Authentic Encounters’, providing experiences with local people and attractions, with group sizes limited to 12 guests or fewer.

Example excursions include:

● ‘Mix it up in Doha’ - an ‘Authentic Encounter’, explore the diverse history and culture of the region, from modern architecture at Pearl-Qatar Island to the artistic hub of Katara Cultural Village, concluding with a guided tour of Souq Wakra to witness the Gulf's spice trade. Half-day tour from £122pp.

● ‘Abu Dhabi by dhow’ - discover some of the city’s most iconic landmarks by dhow - a traditional Arabian wooden cargo vessel. Half-day tour from  £66pp.

● ‘The Dubai grand tour’ - explore the best of Dubai with a visit to a traditional Arabian bazaar experience and views of the Burj Al Arab, the iconic Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island. Explore the Jumeirah Mosque and the Etihad Museum. Two-day tour from £138pp.

● ‘Dare to ride the Flying Fox zipline’, Khasab – an ‘Authentic Encounter’, take flight on the Flying Fox, the world's longest zipline over water, experiencing an 1,800-metre journey from Jebel Fitt to the Musandam coastline at speeds up to 80kph. Half-day tour from £85pp.

● ‘Mosques, museums and mezze in Manama’, Bahrain - embark on a tour of Bahrain's culture and cuisine, visit the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the Bahrain National Museum and Manama's bustling bazaar, before visiting the historic Bahrain Fort and relaxing at the Novotel Al Dana boutique hotel. Half-day tour from £101pp.

Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “Our specially crafted excursions are the heart and soul of the Celestyal experience. Led by our incredibly knowledgeable team, they capture the very best of this region.

“Whether you’re into soaking up history, absorbing different cultures, or you’re all about stunning natural landscapes and pristine golden beaches, this fantastic programme of shore excursions has something for everyone.”

The ‘Desert Days’ itinerary is available to book from £469pp for seven nights, £309pp for four nights from Dubai, and £249pp for three nights from Abu Dhabi and includes £65pp shore excursion discount, full board, select drinks with meals, all port and service charges. All cruises are on sale now and include 50% off deposits as part of the Spring campaign, bringing deposits down to as low as £125 per booking.