| Celestyal tweaks Arab cruises

CELESTYAL Cruises is refining its ‘Iconic Arabia’ sailings for next year, following a successful first Arabian Gulf season (CW 28 Feb).

The three- and four-night sailings on board Celestyal Discovery will now feature additional stops in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, while Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE will also be introduced as a new port of call.

The new cruises are three-night long weekend sailings departing on Fri and sailing round-trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai and Sir Bani Yas Island.

There is also an ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruise departing on a Mon and sailing round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Khasab in Oman.

Celestyal Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett said discovering more off-the-beaten-track ports is key to its guests’ satisfaction, leading to the introduction of Ras Al Khaimah on its Arabian cruises.

“We strive to deliver unmissable experiences, and in doing so constantly listen to our guests, and travel agent community.

“Following a hugely successful first season in the Arabian Gulf, we learnt more about what our guests and partners would like to see and are excited to announce these changes based on their feedback,” he added.

“Since launching our winter season Arabian Gulf itineraries, we’ve been thrilled by the positive response and the growing interest from both repeat and new-to-cruise customers in exploring this spectacular region.”

Discovery will commence her inaugural Arabian Gulf season on 12 Dec, joining her fleetmate, Celestyal Journey, which is concluding her inaugural program in the region (CW yesterday). MS