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.