Celestyal has marked its first ever visit to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a traditional plaque exchange ceremony in collaboration with Cruise Saudi.
The 1260-guest Celestyal Journey’s maiden call took place on 29 November as the final port on the cruise line’s new seven-night ‘Athens to Jeddah’ voyage, which left Athens on 22 November and called at Marmaris, Turkey, and three ports in Egypt – Port Said, Sharm el Sheikh and Safaga – before concluding in Jeddah.
This ceremony was attended by representatives of Celestyal including Captain Angelos Vassilakos, as well as senior team members from Cruise Saudi and port officials.
The 1360-guest Celestyal Discovery also calls into Jeddah on 5 December, before joining her fleet mate for her inaugural season in the Arabian Gulf region.
“We are honoured to celebrate our maiden call in Jeddah alongside our partners at Cruise Saudi, marking the beginning of a long and effective relationship,” Celestyal chief commercial officer Lee Haslett said.
“As the cultural heart of Saudi Arabia and the gateway to its incredible destinations, Jeddah offers huge potential for cruise tourism, and today’s plaque exchange is an exciting step in our collaboration.”
“This maiden Red Sea sailing highlights the strong appeal of the region and aligns with Cruise Saudi’s commitment to developing seamless, high-quality cruise experiences in Saudi Arabia,” Cruise Saudi chief destination experiences officer Barbara Buczek said. “Celestyal’s expanded itineraries demonstrate the growing demand for distinctive Red Sea and Arabian Gulf journeys.
“We continue to work closely with cruise operators to ensure our ports, destinations and onshore excursions showcase the Kingdom’s culture, heritage and renowned hospitality. We look forward to welcoming guests from around the world to experience the beauty of the Red Sea and the richness of Saudi Arabia’s destinations.”
Upon disembarkation, guests received a warm Jeddah welcome and had the chance to explore the UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah, with its distinctive Hijazi architecture and vibrant souks.
After visiting Jeddah, both ships continue their passage to Abu Dhabi to commence Celestyal’s second season in the Arabian Gulf.
Celestyal Journey opens the season on 6 December 2025, with a special Abu Dhabi Grand Prix celebratory cruise, before operating a seven-night ‘Desert Days’ itinerary for the rest of the season, sailing roundtrip from Doha and calling at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, as well as two full days and an overnight stay in Dubai, with prices starting from $559 per person for a seven-night cruise.
Celestyal Discovery’s first Arabian Gulf departure is 12 December 2025, launching Celestyal’s new three-, four- and seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi and calling at Doha, Khasab (Oman), Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island (UAE), and maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah (UAE), with prices starting from $279 per person for a three-night cruise.
