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Anchors aweigh and passports ready—Celestyal Cruises just made a splash with some seriously exciting news for travelers craving a blend of sun, sea, and sand dunes! The cruise line has officially teamed up with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (aka the people who know how to turn a coastline into a cultural playground). The partnership was sealed at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, and trust us, this isn’t your average “let’s collaborate” press release. This is cruise magic in the making.
Starting this December, Celestyal will roll out immersive shore excursions in Ras Al Khaimah—yes, the Emirate known for its rugged mountains, ancient forts, and that dramatic zipline your adventurous cousin won’t stop bragging about. This is not a drill; your winter vacation just got a serious upgrade.
All Aboard the Celestyal Discovery—With a Pit Stop in Paradise
Following a jaw-droppingly successful debut in the Arabian Gulf—where bookings sailed 35% past expectations (mic drop)—Celestyal is coming back with not one, but two ships this season. The spotlight, though, is firmly on the Celestyal Discovery, a freshly revamped floating beauty that can host 1,360 lucky guests. She’ll be homeporting in Abu Dhabi from December 12, 2025, and trust us, this isn’t your grandma’s cruise.
We’re talking three-, four-, and seven-night “Iconic Arabia” voyages that sound like something straight out of a travel influencer’s vision board. Imagine sailing from Abu Dhabi to Doha, Ras Al Khaimah, and even the fjords of Khasab in Oman. Got more time? The seven-night route adds in Dubai and the wildlife haven of Sir Bani Yas Island. It’s like Arabian Nights, but with buffets and sunset selfies.
Why Ras Al Khaimah? Oh, Let Us Count the Ways…
Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, Lee Haslett, summed it up perfectly: this Emirate is “truly unique.” Translation? Ras Al Khaimah is where ancient heritage meets modern-day thrill. Think desert safaris, pearl diving, mountain hikes, beach bliss, and cultural soul food—all in one stop. And thanks to this partnership, guests will get the kind of in-depth exploration that travel dreams are made of.
He added,
“We’re proud to build strong partnerships in the region, and are thrilled to enhance our shore excursion programme with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. Together, we’ll offer our guests even more immersive and culturally rich experiences. Ras Al Khaimah is a truly unique destination, and we’re excited to showcase it to our guests, many of whom choose Celestyal specifically for our in-depth exploration.”
So whether you’re a culture sponge, adrenaline junkie, or someone who just wants to sip a mocktail with a view of the Hajar Mountains—this is your cue to pack light, charge your phone, and prep your “Out of Office” reply.
Celestyal isn’t just cruising through the Arabian Gulf; it’s docking with purpose—and Ras Al Khaimah is ready to roll out the red carpet.
