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 November 29 as the final port on the cruise line’s new special seven-night ‘Athens to Jeddah’ voyage, which left Athens on November 22 and called at Marmaris, Turkey, and three ports in Egypt – Port Said, Sharm el Sheikh and Safaga – before concluding in Jeddah.

The 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 will also call into Jeddah on December 5, before joining her fleet mate for her inaugural season in the Arabian Gulf region.

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal, said: “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. 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.”

Barbara Buczek, Chief Destination Experiences Officer at Cruise Saudi, said: “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. 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 will be welcomed by Jeddah’s renowned warmth and hospitality, home to the UNESCO-listed Jeddah Historic, with its distinctive Hijazi architecture and vibrant souks.

Both ships will continue their passage from Jeddah to Abu Dhabi, to commence Celestyal’s second season in the Arabian Gulf.

Celestyal Journey will open the season on December 6, 2025, with a special Abu Dhabi Grand Prix celebratory cruise, before operating the 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 €349 per person for a seven-night cruise.*

Celestyal Discovery’s first departure is December 12, 2025, launching the line’s new three-, four- and seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, sailing roundtrip from her winter homeport in Abu Dhabi and calling at Doha, Qatar; Khasab, Oman; Dubai, UAE; Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE, and maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with prices starting from €179 per person for a three-night cruise.*